Superguide: Printers -- all you need to know

HP Officejet H470

If you need a portable printer, the Officejet H470 isn't a bad choice. If you can endure the price, then you can expect a high quality portable printer.

Samsung CLP-310

You don't get blazingly fast laser speeds with the CLP-310, but it does live up to the hype of offering affordable colour laser printing in a small form factor.

Canon Pixma MX7600

The Canon Pixma MX7600 produces excellent images as expected by both brand and nature. If only Canon could match its technical expertise with better network support, usability and documentation.

Brother MFC-7440N

The Brother MFC-7440N prints quickly and is fairly inexpensive to sustain, but we simply can't get behind a printer with poor quality graphics, significant hardware defects, and a boring design.

Samsung ML-2851ND

Samsung's ML-2851ND is a bare bones mono-laser printer with a few extra features attached that will appeal to the small-to-medium business crowd that simply needs to print out text documents or light graphics. The AU$330 price tag is higher than average for a monochrome printer. Still, if print speed and print quality are deciding factors for you, consider the Samsung ML-2851ND.

HP Officejet J6480

The Officejet J6480 is Hewlett-Packard's newest all-in-one printer with a host of features designed to appeal to small-to-midsize businesses that want a low-cost, feature-rich device capable of handling projects across the board. The price and features set make the J6480 one of our favourite do-it-all devices.

Kodak EasyShare 5500 All-in-One

Kodak packs a host of features in the EasyShare 5500, but fails to flesh them out sufficiently. We found this all-in-one printer frustrating to use.

HP CM8060

State-of-the-art enterprise-class inkjet technology makes HP's CM8060 Colour MFP more than a match for conventional laser-based alternatives.

Samsung ML-1630

If you want a monochrome laser that doesn't look like yet another grey box of doom, the ML-1630 could be your perfect match.

Brother MFC-685cw

The Brother MFC-685CW inkjet multifunction printer offers tons of great features at the expense of print speed and quality. If speed and quality are your priorities, look elsewhere.

HP unveils specialised printers, scanner

Hewlett-Packard has unveiled two Designjet printers aimed at the technical design market, and a device for high-speed document scanning.

Photos: HP Officejets challenge SMB laser printers

Hewlett-Packard has launched a new range of Officejet Pro printers Down Under aimed at small- to medium-sized businesses that use laser printers.

Dell 926 Photo All-in-One

The Dell Photo 926 is disappointing, even for a AU$100 multifunction printer. You can get a better printer for the same money.

Canon Pixma MP460

The Canon Pixma MP460 is a minor update to the MP450. We still like its print quality but were disappointed by its scans. Still, it's one of our top choices for a photo-centric budget all-in-one.

Brother MFC-440CN

The Brother MFC-440CN is a very flexible multifunction printer well suited to light use in a home or small office.

Epson Stylus Photo R2400

The Epson Stylus Photo R2400 printer's excellent monochrome printing further solidifies company's hegemony of the enthusiast and professional photo printer markets.

Canon Pixma iP5000

A relatively fast, versatile printer with excellent text and graphics quality.

Dell Photo All-in-One Printer 922

If you want a fast scanner that produces high-quality prints, this is the one. But for overall speed and fax capabilities, look elsewhere.

Kodak EasyShare Printer Dock 6000

Top-notch prints and easy operation makes this the photo printer of choice for compatible Kodak cameras. It does have a few drawbacks, though.

HP Photosmart 3310 All-in-One

This wireless all-in-one prints photos at a blinding pace.

HP Photosmart 8750

This is a decent printer for the photo enthusiast or scrapbooker who wants the amenities of a consumer printer in the size of a medium-format model.

Do-it-all office inkjets

Laser printers are the office workhorse, but only ink-based multifunctions can juggle spreadsheets for work and print pictures for play.

HP Deskjet 6840

Ready for a wired or Wi-Fi network, the HP Deskjet 6840 handles text and photos well for a small business or a home.

HP Photosmart 2710

This great all-in-one costs more than most but delivers on speed, print quality, and features.

Tech Guide: Which Printer?

If you're pondering a printer purchase, but are befuddled by the bevy of options, then you need our comprehensive guide to printer types, technologies and costings.

Dell Personal All-In-One A940 Printer

What kind of AIO printer do you get for under AU$200? ZDNet Australia investigates Dell's low-cost printer offering.

Dell steps onto printer stage, but will Aussies miss out?

The PC maker is taking on Hewlett-Packard and others with a quartet of inkjet and laser devices, which it will begin shipping in the US in April. Meanwhile, Australian users are unlikely to see Dell-branded printers any time soon.

Lexmark P6250 Home Photo Center All-in-One

The P6250 is an all-in-one home photo printer that includes a scanner and some intuitive consumer-friendly touches such as animated tutorials on its 2.5-inch colour LCD.

Samsung ML-1740

The Samsung ML-1740 black-and-white laser printer will satisfy a tight budget in a small office or at home, but you should opt for a more sophisticated machine if you need a corporate workhorse.

First Take: Canon CP-200

Successor to the Canon CP-100 and sibling of the CP-300, this third-generation dye-sublimation printer offers fans of direct printing the latest in connectivity support, PictBridge.

Brother HL-2700CN

This is a compact and affordable network-ready colour laser printer that will suit many small businesses, but you may need to look elsewhere for top-notch speed and print quality.

Epson Stylus Photo R800

Despite some finicky printhead behaviour, this excellent printer earns an Editors' Choice for photo enthusiasts.

Sony DPP-EX50

This snapshot photo printer makes beautiful prints for a reasonable price, but its design could use some work.

First Take: Epson Stylus CX6500

Epson's latest All-In-One (AIO) continues to use the manufacturer's DURABrite inks, but does this all-rounded multifunction bring anything new to the table?

The cut-throat business of printer cartridges

Commentary: Printer manufacturers have been quick to catch on to Gillette's business model, but are they going too far?

Tech Guide: Buy the right photo printer

Photography is not just about shooting nice portraits and beautiful scenery. Many camera users agree that the most gratifying experience is, in fact, printing their own pictures.

Editor's Pick: 5 Inkjet Printers

Whether you need a home photo printer or a cheap SOHO workhorse, this selection of the best inkjet printers will have something to suit.

Lexmark X5250 All-In-One

For less than AU$300, the Lexmark X5250 All-in-One has just about everything from photo printing features to scanning and copying. It's fast, too.

HP LaserJet 3015

The HP LaserJet 3015 does the trick for students and families, but small businesses can do better with a different printer.

Canon i80

With a car charger and Bluetooth support, the i80 brings mobile printing to the next level.

HP LaserJet 3380

The HP LaserJet 3380 is a good match for a very small-business operation that doesn't require colour printing.

HP Color LaserJet 3500

The HP Color LaserJet 3500 is a good printer for a home office or a small business that needs quality printing but not expandability.

Epson Stylus Photo R210

The Epson R210 includes many useful features and a price point that's sure to please digital photo enthusiasts.

Up in the sky! It's a printer.. it's a scanner.. it's an MFD

If it's super MFD performance you're after, you normally have to deal with a kryptonite-like problem somewhere. We put two MFDs head to head to find a printer of steel.

Lexmark's small, cheap laser printer

The Lexmark E210 (AU$599) is a good all-purpose home or office laser printer, producing crisp prints at a fraction of the cost of larger printers. Easy setup, simple software, and low-cost toner refills make the E210 an acceptable printer solution for home or small-office needs.

First Take: Canon i560

This new desktop photo printer offers true borderless images up to 8.5x11 inches, plus camera-to-printer capability.

Canon imageCLASS MP370

The Canon MP370 is a stylish AIO that brings full photo-printing functionality into the multifunction space.

Canon i560

This colour inkjet is an excellent value for families, students, job seekers, and, of course, digital photo nuts.

Epson Stylus Photo RX510

The Epson RX510 adds a film scanner to the standard home multifunction capabilities, all at an affordable price.

HP Deskjet 3550

The HP Deskjet 3550 is an entry-level printer that's surprisingly fast and produces reasonably good-quality prints. However, it is let down by high ink costs.

HP LaserJet 1010

The LaserJet 1010 offers decent prints for a home office or a small business. Unfortunately, the limited expansion options and its middling print quality fail to measure up to the rest of its attributes.

HP Colour LaserJet 1500L

The HP Colour LaserJet 1500L's low price puts good colour laser printing within the grasp of budget-strapped small offices. But if you need high volume or room to grow, get a more expandable model.

Lexmark Z605 Color Jetprinter

The Z605 is an extremely cheap injket printer most suitable for those who only print intermittently.

Canon LBP 2410

The Canon Laser Shot LBP 2410 fuses fast print speeds with good output quality, all at an affordable price to SOHO users.

Lexmark X1150 All-In-One

Lexmark's X1150 provides your SOHO with decent multifunctional performance, but the value of the model is compromised by high running costs.

Making the upgrade

You've got a lot invested in that current infrastructure, but there are those who are telling you it's time to upgrade. When is really the right time?

Canon i950

Canon's i950 photo inkjet is a sure winner for amateur digital photographers with a restricted budget.

Tech Guide: Buying for your business

Don't make a costly mistake. Before you plunk down the big bucks on new hardware, read our expert advice on how to choose the right desktops, notebooks, displays, and printers for your business.

Open your own document centre

We put some of the top office printers/copiers head to head.

HP PSC1210: Teeny-tiny all-in-one

Some all in one printer, scanner and copier units are defined by their nifty add-ons, or groovy style choices The PSC1210 is just small. No, strike that, it's very small. Read our Australian review.

HP Officejet 4110: Small gets smaller

With dimensions smaller than HP's own 1210, the Officejet 4110 accomplishes a feat. We put it through the paces to see if it improves and even performs up to the mark.

Camera-print standard comes into focus

In a move contrary to current proprietary practices, six companies are now rooting for an industry standard to allow photos to be printed through a direct camera-to-printer connection.

You can take it with you: 5 portable printing options

Mobile printing can be a pain, whether you head to the copy shop or find a hotel business centre. Our Australian review examines five different options for printing on the road.

Epson Stylus Photo 830: Budget contender

The Stylus Photo 830 capable entry-level inkjet printer that produces brilliant photo quality images and tidy text print-outs at a reasonable price.

Lexmark's budget all-in-one

The new Lexmark X75 is clearly designed with the budget consumer in mind.

HP Photosmart 7550: PC-free printing

This adequate graphics printer offers only mediocre speed and print quality; you'd get better results from the Canon S900. But if you want to print directly from your camera or media card, try the 7550 for PC-free printing.

Smart ways to save on printing costs

Printing your own photos is easy and in most cases fun, but it can be an expensive affair. Check out our guide to getting the most out of your printer.

HP's budget all in one

HP's PSC 2110 doesn't have a pretty name, but it does have a pretty good price point. Budget usually means compromises though -- does the PSC 2110 offer enough?

Reviews News: SOHO, so what?

There's nothing large scale released this week. Everything has been for the personal consumer or small business. Even the server costs less than most notebooks.

Reviews News: Holiday Cheer

As we head into Christmas, staff begin to lose concentration at work, and begin surfing the Net for bargains to buy their loved ones for the special day. Check out this week's newest product announcements.

HP PSC 950: Do it all attitude

HP's PSC 950 offers multifunctional printing capabilities for SOHO environments with a couple of unique image-based twists.

Printing for professionals

The Epson Stylus Photo 2100 isn't cheap, but its print quality more than justifies its high asking price. Check out our review.

Lexmark Z65: High definition, low paper sense

Lexmark's Z65 prints well, but its claim to be able to sense all paper types needs to be taken with a grain of salt.

Reviews News: What you need

Everything you need to set up an online presence is in this newsletter, with the exception of capable staff.

Low-Cost Laser Shootout

We test the HP LaserJet 1000 and the Samsung ML-1250. They're similarly priced but differ in performance and features.

Reviews News: Notebooks and Switches

The staple diet of new switches and broadband technologies has this week been supplemented by a healthy addition of notebook launches.

Minolta's colourful addition to your network

As businesses of all sizes demand capable colour printing, numerous printer makers have stepped up to offer faster and more affordable colour laser solutions for the network.

Olympus P-400

If you want great-looking photos -- and don't mind paying extra to get them -- check out the AU$2860 Olympus P-400. This dye-sublimation printer creates continuous-tone printouts without the "grain" that makes inkjets distinguishable from photographs.

Epson Stylus Photo 2000P

The first desktop printer to employ MicroCrystal Encapsulation technology, this unit claims colours that will remain stable for up to two centuries.

Cheap as Lexmark Z53

The Lexmark Z53 Colour Jetprinter is one of the best photo-quality inkjet printers we've ever tested. Priced at only AU$399, it not only saves buckets of money, it shoots out wonderfully crisp and richly coloured photo prints as quickly as those more expensive printers. Good for most home or small-biz tasks, the Z53 has our vote, hands down, as the best printer buy of the year.

Lexmark Z12 Color Jetprinter

With an estimated price of AU$149, the Z12 Color Jetprinter has the distinction of being the least expensive inkjet printer sold by Lexmark Australia.

HP Colour LaserJet 4550DN

The 4550DN's output quality and performance alone would make it worth considering.

HP Digital Sender 8100C

Think of the HP Digital Sender 8100C as a fax machine for the e-mail age--or, more simply, an e-mail machine.

HP LaserJet prints at new speeds

HP's LaserJet 1200se boasts output speeds of over 15ppm and a 10-second fuser warm-up time, which should put this AU$765 printer on top of the high-speed list among black-and-white office laser printers. Real-world tests showed that the 1200 is right on the money.

HP Color LaserJet CP1215

The Color LaserJet CP1215 is HP's entry-level printer built to serve small workgroups, but it suffers from frustratingly slow print speeds, a missing LCD screen, and other problems.

Printers, Scanners and Monitors

From Flat Faced monitors, budget printers and cool, compact scanners, we look at the essential PC Peripherals.

Netgear ReadyNAS Pro

With the ReadyNAS Pro, Netgear has proven it's still king of the hill. However, some interface quirks, inelegant recovery from catastrophic volume failure, and poor volume, user and share management may put some users off.

Iomega Home Media Network Drive (1TB)

The Iomega Home Media Network Drive, a single-volume NAS server, is easy to set up and use for even the most novice user; however, its lack of advanced features might lessen its appeal to savvy users.

Synology DS209+ NAS Server

Although it's expensive and requires networking experience to use, the Synology DS209+ offers excellent throughput and nearly all the features you're likely to need in a small-business NAS server.

Apple AirPort Extreme Base Station (2009)

The AirPort Extreme Base Station is a great wireless router for Mac or novice users who need something that's simple, nice-looking and works well for their homes. Savvy and Windows users will find many other alternatives that offer a lot more features for their money.

Thecus N5200 Pro

The Thecus N5200 Pro is definitely a higher end NAS, and will benefit power users and tweakers a lot more than entry-level users.

Bang for your buck: 4 Budget printers tested

Are printers in the sub AU$100 space actually worth buying? We check out four low-cost printing options in our Australian review.

All Jammed Up -- Printer management packages

All printer vendors make software to manage their own printers. But if, like most organisations, you have printers from several vendors, what tools can you use to manage all of them?

HP iPAQ 912c

The HP iPAQ 912c defines the middle of the road. When you consider its performance versus the price, the 912c is passable but painfully average.

Synology Rack Station RS408

The Rack Station RS408 is an attractive NAS solution with plenty of performance, plus lots of extras to tempt the smaller business.

Iomega StorCenter Pro NAS 450r

The StorCenter Pro NAS 450r is a generously-specified appliance running Windows Storage Server 2003. While it scores on performance, it's pricey and lacks capacity.

Paint it black: 6 mono printers tested

Who needs colour? Sometimes all you need is a black-and-white printer that can churn out the pages fast. We test your options.

Fit to Print: 9 colour laser printers tested

Printing solutions for the office come in all shapes and sizes. Check out our review to find the right one for your needs.

Lenovo IdeaPad U110

Lenovo's bright red foray into the ultraportable consumer space is for the most part a successful one, despite a few missteps.

Belkin Network USB Hub

While we're all waiting for wireless USB, Belkin intends to make print servers easy.

NComputing L230

NComputing's L230 thin client is an option if you need to add a group of low-impact users to an existing Ethernet LAN. However, you'll need to ensure that the host PC is adequately specified to deliver acceptable performance to the terminals attached to it.

QNAP TS-209 Pro NAS

QNAP's TS-209 Pro offers a compelling mix of server functionality and straight-up NAS backup options.

Nitro PDF professional 4.91

The vast majority of people with a need to create PDF files will be served more than adequately by this product, and the price gives it a handy head start over Adobe Acrobat.

Mandriva Linux 2006

Despite combining the heritage of Mandrakesoft and Connectiva, Mandriva is usually considered a second-tier Linux distribution. Nevertheless, the latest version, Mandriva Linux 2006, is well packaged and includes support for both 32-bit and 64-bit systems.

Toshiba Satellite A200

The A200 is a good all-rounder notebook with plenty to offer those on a budget. Just don't expect a performance powerhouse at this price.

Belkin Wireless G Router with Built-in USB Print Server

Just about everything to do with this wireless router and print server is extremely easy to use. If you're looking for an 802.11g router and want a simple life, the Belkin Wireless G Router with Built-In USB Print Server comes highly recommended.

PDF-eXPLODE

For standard invoices and reports requiring efficient delivery, PDF-eXPLODE could well be a lifesaver. It can be a bit touchy on occasion, but once your document templates are set up properly it should be plain sailing.

Dell Dimension E521

It doesn't have many bells and whistles, but a powerful dual-core AMD processor lends the Dell Dimension E521 unexpected performance and strong bang for the buck.

Windows Vista Business

Windows Vista Business is essentially warmed-over Windows XP. If you're currently happy with Windows XP SP2, we see no compelling reason to upgrade. On the other hand, if you need a new computer right now, Windows Vista is stable enough for everyday use.

Windows Vista Home Basic

Windows Vista Home Basic is essentially warmed-over Windows XP, Windows XP SP3. If you're currently happy with Windows XP SP2, we see no compelling reason to upgrade. On the other hand, if you need a new computer right now, Windows Vista is stable enough for everyday use.

BenQ Joybook R55

Given its impressive performance, generous software bundle and superb screen, at just AU$2299 the R55 is a rare bargain.

Ubuntu Linux 5.10

Ubuntu is a well integrated, practical and absolutely free Linux distribution. There may be worries about support, but the Canonical organisation is building a good reputation and the head of steam in the wider Ubuntu community should provide decent local support from third parties, too.

Samsung SyncMaster 204B

The Samsung SyncMaster 204B can handle productivity and entertainment tasks, but there are less expensive alternatives that offer comparable image quality and superior features.

First Take: Microsoft Windows Vista

Microsoft has released the first public beta of its Windows Vista operating system. We examine the new features.

Linksys EFG120

The EFG120 network attached storage unit offers the perfect feature set for some small businesses, but everyone else should turn to better-equipped competition.

First Take: Microsoft Windows Vista

Microsoft has more to do on its new operating system, but this first beta suggests that Windows Vista will be up to par with Linux and Apple Mac OS X.

Desktop Linux for small businesses

Is your business ready to take the open-source plunge? We test five leading desktop Linux distributions and come up with one winner.

Hewlett Packard

Hewlett Packard have announced a new direction in its printing and imaging strategy. It has combined its latest web-enabled printers with new printing e-services to relegate the -just a printer" concept to the Dark Ages. To ensure the commercial success of the strategy, HP is building a suite of Internet services that will turn its new generation of printers into on-line printing devices.

Canon i455

The Canon i455 is an inexpensive, no-frills photo printer that's perfect for families and students.

Buffalo By Uniden Terastation

A terabyte of extra storage is a compelling idea, although setup can be a bit tricky.

Analysis: Microsoft's OS update

Underneath the sheen, what's Windows Vista made of? We take a detailed look at the recently delayed operating system.

Photo gallery: Inside IE 7 (XP SP2 beta 2)

In the just-released Beta 2 version of Internet Explorer 7, Microsoft mirrors the look and feel of other browsers while adding a few unique features.

Canon S200SP: Low price, good resolution

The Canon S200SP offers high resolution colour prints at a reasonable long term cost.

Tech Guide: Small-business networking

Tips for implementing a wireless, Ethernet or power-line network in a small-business environment.

The Best Inkjet Ever?

Up to now, there have two types of inks to choose from when outputting photo-quality prints on inkjet printers: you could have either great-looking inks, the colours of which shift and fade after a few weeks, or more permanent inks and papers that remain stable for years but look dull and unrealistic.

Google Mini Search Appliance

Aimed at small to medium-size enterprises (SMEs) that need a search engine without the hassles, the Google Mini is capable and flexible. We just wish the upgrade path was more affordable.

Bridging the gap, but is it too little too late?

PictBridge was the darling of digital imaging for just about the whole of 2003. Yet, here we are, midway into 2004, and we're still to see it impacting purchase decisions. What's happening?

First Take: Maxtor Shared Storage Drive

Maxtor's Shared Storage Drive provides a simple way to organise, centralise and backup digital content such as photos, music and documents over a home network.

Lexmark X1185 All-In-One

Lexmark's X1185 provides your home or SOHO with a very affordable multifunction.

Bluetooth's broken. Here's how to fix it

Bluetooth was supposed to cure cable clutter, by letting PCs, keyboards, printers, and PDAs talk to each other without wires. Here's why that hasn't happened--and what needs to be done.

Is ink ever mightier than laser?

According to conventional wisdom, attaching a colour inkjet printer to an office network is like trying to demolish a skyscraper with a hammer; fast, but prohibitively expensive for small businesses, colour Laser printing has long been considered the only viable technology for this scale of duty. Printer manufacturers are seeking to fill the colourless niche with enhanced-performance inkjet printers that promise laser performance with inkjet economy. ZDNet reviews hauled Lexmark's offering, the J110tn, into its offices to see how it faired.

Tech talk

Technology developments are being foisted on us at every turn, but what do we really get out of them?

MyWebEx PC

MyWebEx PC offers powerful remote-access features for free, plus some extra capabilities for a low monthly subscription, making it a great solution for telecommuters.

Contact management packages reviewed

We look at which product can help improve customer satisfaction.

Hard copies: Paler by the day?

As digital cameras replace film cameras, the lifespan of printed images becomes a worry. This is especially true if you pay top dollar for a photo-grade inkjet and splurge on expensive ink and coated photo paper.

Tech Guide: Photo printing paper

You can buy almost as many photo paper types as you can photo printers. We explain the differences, and how to get the best archival quality prints in our Tech Guide.

Lexmark X522: More than the sum of its parts

If the Lexmark X522 multifunction printer could choose its own attire it would wear a suit and bowler hat around the clock. This multi-role device offers all the features necessary to meet the document management requirements of the mid-to-large scale enterprise. However, at AU$8,250 it will probably take a dedicated document server and a well-conceived capital expenditure proposal to get it into your office.

Lexmark X5150 All-In-One

The performance, image quality, and ease of use of this all-in-one make it a good fit for SOHO users who can live without fax capabilities.

First Look: InDesign CS

The new InDesign CS will hold its own as the document-layout anchor of Creative Suite and as a standalone DTP package, but as a product update, there's little to write home about.

Olympus Camedia AZ-1

Olympus' elegant, pocket-sized Camedia AZ-1 is sophisticated, slim, and full of features, combining style and substance in one.

Australians first to snap up OLED cameras

Australians are set to be the first consumers able to purchase Kodak's world-first digital camera with an integrated OLED screen, according to a company announcement.

First Look: Apple AirPort Express Base Station (with AirTunes)

Apple's latest AirPort networking product also streams iTunes music to your home stereo, but it lacks the computer-free control found in competing network media products.

Reviews News: Gearing up for Xmas

With the world's biggest buy-buy give-give holiday celebration coming up, we can all expect to see a lot of new offers and special deals heading our way. Check out this week's Australian product announcements.

Reviews News: Burners and wireless tech

This week there were numerous high-tech announcements -- from a printer that talks telephony to the vanguard of affordable DVD burners.

Reviews News: A few things of interest

The Christmas rush might be starting slowly, but some interesting things have come out in the past week.

Canon MVX3i

A sturdy, logical design and a 2-megapixel sensor make the MVX3i an excellent advanced camcorder for general home or business use.

Netgear FWG114P

Netgear's FWG114P wireless access point/router/firewall/print server is a great all-in-one device for those planning to set up a home office.

Apple introduces AirPort Express

Apple Computer unveiled yesterday a AU$219 device that acts as both a portable wireless base station and a way to stream music throughout the home.

Reviews News: saturated by Canon

Canon Australia has gone a little ballistic this week, releasing no less than six products of various types onto the market.

Intel plans Linux support for Centrino

Intel is working on Linux support for Centrino, its package of chips for mobile computers with wireless networking abilities, but the company hasn't yet decided how or when to release it.

UPS for all seasons: 6 appliances tested

Suffering from blackouts, brownouts, or sags? How about bushfires, floods, or cyclones? Then maybe you need a UPS. We review six UPS appliances.

Dell Dimension 8400

The Dell Dimension 8400 offers exciting new hardware, but unless you're a staunch early adopter, you won't see a compelling reason to make an immediate upgrade.

Clie to plug into USB upgrade

Sony's handheld computers will soon be able to exchange data with other digital devices without going through a PC first.

Tech Guide: Alternatives to AvantGo

If you are looking for an AvantGo replacement, here are five software programs you can utilise to put the Web on your PDA.

Tech Guide: Letting in Linux

We'll step you through the process of installing Linux alongside Windows XP so that you can boot either OS.

Motion Magic 3d Creator

We've all seen lenticular pictures in novelty and tourist shops. If you rock them back and forth, they give you the illusion of an image moving or morphing into something else. Now, thanks to Motion Graphix's Motion Magic 3d Creator, anyone can achieve the same picture effects with a home computer, Photoshop, and a good colour printer.

Tech Guide: Setting up a Wi-Fi home network

A broadband connection brings the Internet into your home at blazing speeds. And with a wireless, or Wi-Fi, network, you can get that access on multiple computers throughout your home -- and even outside -- without cords.

Lindows hits virtual shelves

Lindows on Monday unveiled the latest version of its low-cost operating system aimed at bringing Linux to the masses.

LaCie Ethernet Disk

The Ethernet Disk offers affordable network storage in a sleek rack-mountable casing. Performance isn't great, but given its target audience this probably isn't a show-stopper. Expansion is an issue though.

Ximian's desktop Linux talks to Windows

Ximian, hoping to accelerate the pace of Linux desktop adoption, releases a new version of its main software package for PCs which adds and/or upgrades several new features.

Gadgets you can't have

We take a look at the latest and greatest cool gear from Japan. There's just one catch -- you can't have any of it.

Dell Axim X30 (64MB, 312MHz processor)

The midlevel X30 is a feature-rich PDA with an affordable price tag to attract both consumers and business users.

Reviews News: LASERS and utilities

With everything from annoyingly capitilised products to utility packages, we've got this weeks new product releases all rounded up here.

Lindows takes wraps off new version

Lindows, the software start-up offering a consumer-friendly version of the Linux operating system, announced a new version of its software Wednesday.

Microsoft Small Business Server 2003

For small companies that need a business in a box and want to stick with Microsoft technology, SBS 2003 is the only game in town.

Running Linux with Office XP: Ready for business?

Linux has made a big impact in the server room, but usability issues and lock-in to Microsoft Office have conspired to hold it back on the desktop. Has that all changed?

Tech Guide: Wireless glossary

3G, GPRS, TransFlash, RS-MMC. Don't know what they mean? Check out our glossary of wireless terms.

Report: New standard helps Wi-Fi growth

A new Wi-Fi standard is picking up where its predecessor left off, helping to maintain strong growth in wireless networking as the market prepares for combination products next year, according to a research report.

Reviews news: Processors and phones

Join ZDNet as we trawl through this week's product announcements, which ranged from high speed processors to mobile phone software with a French flavour.

Server hassles are virtually solved

With one new product released, and one about to be, server virtualisation is becoming a reality in the low-end server space. How can virtual servers help you?

Fluke NetTool

The Fluke NetTool is an easy-to-use, effective way of testing network cables (Cable Testing), network connectivity between desktops and networks (Inline Mode), and PC configuration.

Reviews News: A mixed bag for SMEs

A wide variety of products this week, many aimed at smaller businesses.

Smart Fuel Mobile shows off 'alcoholic' laptop power

Running your mobile phone on alcohol is becoming closer to reality than a drinker's dream, thanks to Bavarian technology.

Belkin Bluetooth USB Adapter: Affordable wireless

If you have Bluetooth-enabled equipment and you'd like to connect it to your PC, the Belkin Bluetooth USB Adapter offers a straightforward and affordable way of doing it.

As the Mac turns 20, has the PC caught up?

Commentary--The Apple Mac turns 20 this week, but the real question is not has it grown up, but are PCs now as impervious to gecko lizards?

Canon Digital IXUS II

Canon's 3.2-megapixel IXUS II retains the features and quality of its predecessors but puts them in an even smaller and lighter package.

Canon PowerShot S50

Top-notch image quality and a high-end feature set make the compact 5-megapixel PowerShot S50 irresistible.

Tech Guide: Networking your business

With several networking technologies to choose from, each with a range of relatively inexpensive hardware solutions, it can be challenging to find the right products for your business. That's where we come in.

Tech Guide: Notebook buying

We cover every aspect you need to consider in making a notebook purchase in our extensive tech guide.

Canon MV6iMC

This well-constructed camcorder fits into a coat pocket, but it delivers less than stellar low-light video.

HP Photosmart 945

The HP PhotoSmart 945's 8X zoom lens is sure to make the hearts of telephoto aficionados beat faster.

MS keys into bluetooth trend

Microsoft's Wireless Optical Desktop for Bluetooth brings a solid keyboard design but has flaky wireless performance.

Gaining access

Office equipment is getting easier and easier to use, but just how accessible is it for the wider population?

Reviews News: An enterprising solution

This week there's a lot of goodies for the systems administrator of an enterprise, perhaps looking to make life a bit easier or more secure. Check out this week's new product releases.

OpenOffice.org 1.1

This feature-rich, flexible and above-all free office suite is much more than a refuge for the anti-Microsoft tendency. It works, it's reliable and it's useful.

HP DVD Movie Writer dc3000

HP's innovative DVD Movie Writer dc3000 offers an easy route from VHS to DVD, and it's a decent burner to boot.

Work at home? Here's how to stay secure

Commentary: Whether you work at home full-time or only occasionally, you need to make sure your systems and data are protected. So what is the best software for preventing a business-threatening disaster?

Palm m500 gets Bluetooth

Palm has announced plans to release an SDIO (Secure Digital Input/Output) Bluetooth expansion card for its Palm m500-series handhelds at the Bluetooth Congress 2001 in Monte Carlo.

Why not QuickTrack your way around

Australian Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) solutions developer DataTrack Solutions have released QuickTrack V.20, an advanced data capture and transmission software program.

Bluetooth sets clock ticking

It's a question of time if Bluetooth companies want to see blue skies--five minutes, an industry group leader plans to tell developers this week.

Tech Guide: Monitor buying guide

With so many monitors to choose from, before you buy, it pays to figure out which specs and features will be most important to you.

The broadband route: 12 routers tested

Looking for an easy way to extend that broadband connection to more of your organisation's PCs? One of these broadband routers could be the solution.

OS X upgrade to ship next week

Apple has confirmed that it will release of the "first major upgrade" to Mac OS X next week. The date temporarily disappeared from the technology media's collective radar after the company cancelled Apple Expo in Paris--the event where Apple CEO Steve Jobs was expected to announce the upgrade-- in the wake of the September 11 attacks in the United States.

Photoshop Album: Adobe-centric?

Photo Album is a powerful photo manager, but you should think twice about buying it unless you already use Adobe's line of graphics products.

HP Photosmart 320: Budget Digital

See how HP's 2.1 Megapixel model fares against the current crop of low-cost digital cameras. Read our Australian review.

Tech Guide: Desktop PCs for students

If you're heading back to school, you'll need to equip yourself with the right tech gear to make the grade. Our guide gives you expert advice on how to choose a desktop PC.

HP ScanJet 4400C -- low budget, fast

This scanner offers more dots per inch (1200 dpi) than entry-level scanners, and a few more console button to quick-launch functions such as scan-to-web, email and scan-to-printer.

Archiving: what's in store?

Tape, disk, or optical? We set a budget of AU$20,000 and asked three vendors to come up with a storage solution.

Sony CLIE PEGNZ90G: Expensive and expansive

Sony's crammed everything it could think of into the NZ90. Will Palm aficionados bite on this expensive and expansive unit? Read our Australian review.

Bluetooth to break through gum line

Demand for Bluetooth chips and devices is starting to pick up as the technology finally matures.

Image editors: Coursey offers a parting shot

I've been playing with After Shot lately, a new digital photography app from Jasc Software, the folks who brought us the popular Paint Shop Pro image editor.

Home Networking with Me

A new Win Me wizard streamlines the networking process, letting you create mixed-technology networks with ease.

CES 2003: Anywhere, anytime technology

Gadgets featured at the Consumer Electronics Show 2003 make technology available anywhere, anytime. ZDNet Australia presents this special coverage of the show.

Compaq pushes wireless with Australian iPAQ launch

Compaq's new iPAQ Pocket PCs and supporting peripherals made their Australian debut at a company roadshow in Melbourne last night.

Bluetooth wireless: It ain't no hot rod. Why that's a good thing

The first Bluetooth devices--which will be shipping shortly--showed up at my office the other day, and I have to admit to being a little perplexed. Exactly what is Bluetooth, a wireless network technology, going to be good for, anyway? Does it replace the 802.11b wireless network I'm running? Supplement it? Create interference?

RIP: The Map

Maps have been helping people find their way at least since 2300 B.C., when Babylonians sketched the lay of the land on clay tablets. Today's paper maps might be more portable, but they're far less necessary, thanks to Global Positioning System technology and the Web.

Epson Stylus Photo 1270

The Epson Stylus Photo 1270 is a hefty printer. It measures 15.5 by 23.5 by 31 inches (HWD) with all trays extended. The 1270 has a maximum true hardware resolution of 1,440-by-720 dpi and uses a variable-size droplet technology (VSDT) that produces drops as small as 4 picoliters. The result--when printing on photo paper with Epson's new quick-drying dye-based inks in six colors--is breathtaking.

ViewSonic VG191b: Big, flat, sexy

ViewSonic's latest large-screen flat-panel monitor aims to provide graphics and business professionals with the sharpness, saturation, size and shape of desktop they need.

Epson Perfection 2400 Photo: It's fast, but is it perfect?

Calling a product 'Perfection' displays a lot of moxie. What possible product can you release after it if you're right? We test Epson's latest scanner to see if it can live up to its perfect billing.

Crouching Jaguar, hidden features

Apple developers now have their paws on a final beta of Jaguar, the next major Mac OS X update. ZDNet Australia takes a look at the beta version of Apple's latest operating system.

Coraccess Web Tablet: Huge display, flat computer

Tablet computing is the next big thing, or so the pundits are telling us. But in some industries, tablets are already old hat. The big news will be when tablet computers break into the consumer market.

IBM ThinkPad X24

The X24 is an accomplished ultraportable that combines good build quality, good ergonomics, decent performance and long battery life.

Spice it up!

Turn your vanilla PC into a digital darkroom, DV editing station, personal music studio, or telecommuter's dream machine. We've tested an array of products that get you from here to there.

FireWire or USB: And the winner is?

A speed boost with USB 2.0 gets PC makers excited. But a faster FireWire is just around the corner.

Mac OS X 10.1: another byte of the Apple

The March release of Mac OS X opened lots of possibilities for the Mac platform, but it simply wasn't finished. Mac OS X 10.1, the long-awaited update, fills the cracks.

Get connected anywhere

Far from your main machine? Whether that PC is at work or home, if you're looking for a remote-access option, look no further than GoToMyPC. Just be sure you can cover the entry price.

Networking without wires

If the thought of networking makes you cringe, don't worry; 3Com's wireless network solutions can save you the hassle of all those cables.

Office politics: Microsoft Office XP vs Sun StarOffice 6

Sun would like to think it can succeed where others have failedÃ,­ââ,¬"in breaking Microsoft's stranglehold on the office productivity marketââ,¬"by offering a product that's almost as good as Microsoft Office at a much lower price. Do the sums add up?

Make Your PC Work Better

Learn how to print painlessly, improve Internet connections, avoid crashes and more in this complete guide.

Epson Perfection 1650: Sneaky, cute, devilish

The Epson Perfection 1650 photo scanner is nothing short of sneaky. This scanner screams "cute", with its flashy packaging. But don't be fooled.

Sony CyberShot DSC-S70

DSC-S70 (AU$1,890 street) is a hybrid digital camera. It shoots excellent stills, but simply flick a switch and you can shoot up to 60 seconds of full-motion MPEG-1 video with sound

Wireless hits notes in 802.11a, b and g

Just when consumers have learned to use--and pronounce--the wireless networks known as 802.11, along comes a few new versions that threaten to confuse the market.

Reviews news: Heavyweights and titches

This week the releases were evenly peppered with industrial-strength bombshells and feathery whispers. Read all in our weekly roundup.

Can you live on a laptop only?

For the last decade, my friend, colleague, and fellow columnist David Berlind of ZDNet has been using a laptop as his only computer. For almost as long, I've been trying to do the same thing--only I have given up on too many occasions to count.

What "Software Type" is this product?

What "Software Type" is this product?

Bluetooth Gets Spiffed Up

It's been slow going for Bluetooth's wireless gadgets, but this could be the year they connect.

UMAX PowerLook 2100XL

The Umax PowerLook 2100XL (AU$5,493) is a heavy-duty, high-resolution device specifically designed for scanning drawings and photographs destined for print.

HP ScanJet 4300C

The 36-bit, 600-by-1,200 dpi HP ScanJet 4300C (AU$399) is a reliable business scanner with a well-rounded software package that includes Corel Print House 2000.

Apple refreshes Power Mac line

New systems sport faster memory and speedier system architecture, and mark a return to dual-processor systems. The eMac, meanwhile, gets a DVD upgrade.

Microsoft wants to lead technology march

Commentary: Bill Gates is beating the drum for tablets, Smart Display, and Web services - purchased with his US$5bn research budget. The question is: do we want to follow, and can we afford to?

CanoScan D1250U2: Attack of the random characters

Who comes up with a name like D1250U2? Apart from an unpronounceable name, however, Canon's latest scanner sports some high-tech, high-speed features.

Jobs: Jaguar, new iPods, new iMac and. . . Windows?

As the Mac faithful gather in New York, Apple CEO Steve Jobs rallies to the defense of the Mac OS X operating system and trots out new hardware, including a bigger iMac and iPods for Windows.

Mac OS X: worth the wait?

The wait is over: After seven long years, Apple hits the mark with OS X.

Compaq space saver T20 Thin Client

Small and sexy, this tiny device works as well as it looks. Hailed by some as the future of computing, we found that it could do the job of a desktop four times its size.

Adobe Acrobat Messenger

Acrobat PDFs are great for sharing electronic documentsââ,¬"everyone knows that. The recipient always sees the page exactly as it looks on the monitor.

Adobe InDesign 1.5

QuarkXpress has long owned the professional desktop publishing market, but Adobe is now stepping up to the plate.

Toshiba Bluetooth PC Card

For over a year, member companies of the Bluetooth Consortium have been telling us how the Bluetooth's fast, easy wireless connection capabilities will change the world of portable computing.

Twenty tips to keep PCs out of the junk pile

Without a conscientious effort to properly maintain older computers, your company could be faced with the unenviable task of investing in new technology.

Keep your PC in the pink

How is your PC faring daily wear-and-tear? You might be doing more damage to your system than you think! Protect, maintain, and improve your PC with these must-know tips to protect, maintain, and boost the performance of your system.

Tech Guide:PC hardware basics

Ever wonder what's inside your PC? This guide will take you step-by-step through identifying all the standard parts of a computer.

HP's almost pro scanner

Bonus features like fast pre-scans and a high-resolution mode pushes this scanner as close to pro-grade as a consumer device can get.

Sony gets Vaio right

The Sony Vaio R505AFT may not be the fastest notebook on the market today, but in terms of style and interoperability with Sony's range of other multimedia products, it's definitely one of the grooviest.

Mobility Electronics EasiDock 1000E

Gateway Solo 5300xl Deluxe

Indecisive notebook shoppers, let go of your mouse and look no further. The new Solo 5300xl Deluxe from Gateway delivers the perfect compromise between easy-on-the-shoulders portability and muscular desktop-replacement power.

Canon CanoScan more scanning for your dollar

The ultra-portable Canon CanoScan N670U offers one-touch capture, fast performance, and excellent image quality for its competitive price. There's no difference between the two models under the hood, but the pricier version has a sleek metallic lid instead of the N670U's dark blue one.

Buyers' Guide: Scanning headlines

Knowing what you'll use your scanner for will help you decide what kind of scanner to get.

Tracking Sales: Five packages tested

The benefits of keeping information centralised and up to date are obvious for all parts of your business. ZDNet Australia looks at software packages designed to help your sales force stay on track.

XP product activation: Solution, not conspiracy

Since Windows XP went 'Gold', the conspiracy theorists and corporate planners have been hard at work. Contrary to the beliefs espoused by the 'Oliver Stone' DOJ advocates, Microsoft did not rush XP to market to beat some artificial government deadline and avoid an injunction.

Handicapper's guide to storage

Moore's Law applies to disk drives, too. Every 18 months, the capacity seems to double. So do the choices. Here's a handicapper's guide to today's storage options.

Optimise Windows Me Networking

Get the most out of using Windows Me on your home network with these tips.

Scanning the middle-ground

The world isn't black and white but full of many shades of grey, and you should remember this when you're looking for a flatbed scanner; you're not restricted to looking to the high-end or the low-end.

Software rage: Our readers vent

Frustrated software users must often suffer the indignities of sloppy code. We continue to explore the Software Rage phenomenon with contributions from our readers on the subject.

Meet the dark side of Windows XP

While I really like Microsoft's new operating system, there are still some issues that may make it impossible for you to upgrade. And other issues may make you want to skip XP entirely. Here are a dozen potential roadblocks to consider--don't upgrade before you read this!

Building the best machine

Taking advantage of the features of major PC vendors' Web sites can help you determine exactly what you need in a system and where to get it.

Handheld Computers and Accessories

What are the pros and cons of Palm and Pocket PC devices? How do you decide which one is best for you? We'll help you sort it out. But choosing the right handheld is just the start. The fun part is adding all the peripherals to help you get the most out of your investment.

Sony CyberFrame

Sony's CyberFrame uses digital images to display friends and loved ones, and it can even cycle through a gallery of pictures, making for a virtual slide-show of memories

Digital Audio Formats Demystified

Without a doubt, one of the biggest stories of 2000 was the rise of Napster and the continuing saga of MP3. But, MP3 is just one of several digital audio formats widely used today.

Sub-2K PCs

In this feature we looked at 16 Budget PCs. And, in the process, we had our first look at the all new AMD Duron processor. We also received Celeron-, Cyrix-, Pentium III- and Athlon-based machines.

Choosing the right digital camera

Just as computers are more complex than typewriters, getting a digital camera is a little more complicated than buying a film camera. Before you make your trip down to your local electronics or camera retail store, there are a few things you should probably consider about first.

Should You Set Your Sights on Windows XP

Microsoft's Windows XP has received a fair amount of hype in the lead up to its release-Matt Lake and Josh Mehlman assess its usefulness for businesses.

Clock Your Connection Speed

Is your ISP delivering on its promises of fast Internet connectivity? Use NetPerSec to call its bluff.

Storage to go

In this roundup we looked at both internal and external storage devices. We got our hands on the all-new Castlewood ORB51100 drive, which uses 5.7GB media. We looked at a variety of solutions including PC Card based solutions and all sorts of different media capacities.

Computer Shopping Site Review

Having observed hundreds of customer test sessions and chatted with thousands of consumers, we've noticed that customers, when looking for hardware over the Web, fit into one of two categories: (1) those who are researching certain items, (2) those who've already researched and have decided to purchase online.

Windows Superguide 2000

We've upgraded and so should you. Here's our Windows Superguide with the straight story--much of it undocumented--about how to make Windows 2000 work for your business.

Photos: Dell launches Vostro range for small business

Dell has introduced its new Vostro range, aimed at small businesses that require minimal IT support. Here's the full line-up available in Australia at launch.

HP's PC dreams

By combining the printer and PC units, HP is fusing its cash cow with a unit that has struggled to achieve consistent profitability. Will it work?

Making the upgrade

You've got a lot invested in that current infrastructure, but there are those who are telling you it's time to upgrade. When is really the right time?

Monochrome magic: Six printers tested

Who needs colour? Sometimes all you need is a black-and-white printer that can churn out the pages fast. We look at your options.

Tabbed browsing and shrink-to-fit printing in Vista

Tabbed browsing is a feature that has been available in alternative browsers for many years but Microsoft has finally caught up with IE7. Here is a demo on how to make the most out of the new feature and also a demonstration Vista's shrink-to-fit feature, which automatically resizes pages before sending them to your printer.

Microsoft's Hyper-V: why all the fuss?

Microsoft's Hyper-V is the missing piece from the launch of Windows Server 2008. We examine its background, and predict how the hypervisor market is likely to develop.

Photos: HP wants your media

Unveiled at its Print 2.0 event in New York earlier this month, Hewlett-Packard's imaging and printing group showcased a range of new hardware and software products and services designed to manage media for business and consumers.

10 critical physical security measures

When it comes to IT security, physical security is the foundation for our overall strategy. We take a look at 10 of the most essential security measures you should implement now, if you haven't already done so.

Photos: Sun's Gosling shows off Java

On the last day of JavaOne, the Sun vice president shares exotic uses of the software, like dancing robots and underwater exploration vehicles.

How to add a Mac to a Windows network

If the Mac and the PC are the yin and yang of the tech universe, then these two seeming opposites should be able to coexist harmoniously.

Dealing with storage and data leaks

In today's knowledge economy, getting the right information at the right time can make the difference between success and failure. However companies need to put adequate controls in place before sharing information freely. We look at how to ensure confidential data doesn't fall into the wrong hands.

Photos: Connect securely to Vista's Remote Desktop

Walk through the steps to implement FIPS-grade security whenever you use Remote Desktop to connect to a Windows Vista computer from a Windows XP or Vista client machine.

Say what? A look back at McNealy zingers

Sun's co-founder has reveled in running his mouth, and the list of 'McNealy-isms' has become legendary within the tech industry.

Build a patch-management policy

Defining the necessary procedures and responsibilities of patch management can be a tricky process, so follow this sample policy that can be adapted to the needs of your organisation.

Eraser ... McNealy style

While Sun Microsystems went to great efforts to portray Scott McNealy's stepping down from the CEO role as a natural transition and part of a well-thought out succession plan, it was clearly not something the company had chance to chat to its printers about.

Photo gallery: Xandros Desktop 3.0

Run Windows applications on Xandros Desktop OS version 3.

A new life for tech gear?

Is it possible to get extended life from your IT systems? ZDNet Australia looks at some hints and tips for extending the life of your tech gear.

Remote access no longer an Upstream battle

Single view of IT assets saves gas company thousands.

HP outlines long-term strategy

Hewlett-Packard executives are mulling plans to improve over the next 18 months the technology the company uses to manage its direct sales, while it continues with commercial printing efforts and acquisitions of software companies.

10 ways to monitor company computers

Like it or not, network administrators these days must take on the added task of playing Big Brother, monitoring employees' use of the computers and network. Here are 10 of the most effective ways to keep an eye on what your users are doing.

An open-source rival to Google's book project

When it comes to digitising books, two stories appear to be unfolding: One is about open source, and the other, Google.

Do-gooder Trojan has nasty bite

Symantec is warning Internet users of a Trojan horse that removes spyware but alters the security settings in computers.

Berri: There's juice in Dell's cup

Fruit juice vendor Berri is taking lessons from supply chain guru and PC giant Dell to improve its business.

How Palm lost its grip

The handheld maker used to be the king of the hill. So how did it tumble into Microsoft's arms?

Are small businesses headed for DIY IT?

As the cost of IT comes down, it's changing the ways small businesses use technology. Peter Cochrane examines this trend.

Tech talk

Technology developments are being foisted on us at every turn, but what do we really get out of them?

Contact management packages reviewed

We look at which product can help improve customer satisfaction.

Counting on print management software

Printer administration software, might not be the sexiest software around but if your organisation has a lot of widely distributed printers, your IT guys are not going to be happy little soldiers if you don't have any.

FAQ: Wi-Fi alphabet soup

Wireless-networking standards can be daunting. Get fluent in Wi-Fi speak so you can pick the gear that's right for you.

HP girds for grid storage campaign

Hewlett-Packard is attempting to revitalise its sagging data storage division by announcing new products and plans centered on the idea of a storage "grid."

Basic network flaw could disrupt Net

Software flaws in a fundamental language of the Internet could leave the Net's basic infrastructure in danger of disruption if the holes are left unpatched, an Internet security watchdog has warned.

How to keep handheld data safe

In today's wireless world, data backup on handheld devices is a crucial task. Learn how to back up data on Tablet PCs as well as other handheld devices.

AU Tax Office extends outsourcing deal with EDS

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has extended their outsourcing arrangement with troubled IT giant Electronic Data Systems (EDS).

Intel plans Linux support for Centrino

Intel is working on Linux support for Centrino, its package of chips for mobile computers with wireless networking abilities, but the company hasn't yet decided how or when to release it.

Making customers miserable the Microsoft way

Microsoft's Software Assurance program puts even greater pressure on customers to renew existing Windows software. And the final deadline is approaching.

Next-generation search tools to refine results

The vast corpus of human knowledge could soon be published on the Internet. The problem now is how to wade through it.

Leaving your prints all over the place

Print documents are already being drawn into the world of digital security, and it's happening faster than we think.

Lindows hits virtual shelves

Lindows on Monday unveiled the latest version of its low-cost operating system aimed at bringing Linux to the masses.

Intel envisions TiVo-like wireless PCs

Intel wants desktop PCs to double up as network hubs and video recorders, a move that could make life tough for the companies that produce those standalone products.

Intel colonises with chipsets

Although Intel garners most of its revenue and profits from such well-known processors as the Pentium 4 or the Xeon, it's unsung heroes like the US$40 915G Express chipset, released earlier this year, that have let Intel become the largest and fastest-growing graphics chip designers on the planet.

Tuning Win98 network performance

Here are some quick and easy fixes you can make to Windows 98 to increase overall network performance. Additional reading: What's inside your employees' PC?

UPDATE: New worm poised to unleash hell on MS

A worm that takes advantage of what some security experts describe as the most widespread Windows flaw ever has started spreading, while new analysis has uncovered a time bomb in the worm's code poised to unleash a furious denial of service attack at Microsoft itself.

How your boss can spy on you

New software gives businesses the ability to access your work PC's data--without your knowledge. Even if you believe this is wrong, you've got to stop thinking of your office computer as a private place.

Wireless: Breaking the shackles

We look at four examples of the way mobile technologies such as GPRS and 802.11 are giving Australian businesses the opportunity to bring the benefits of connectivity to mobile workers.

Putting the brains into your network

Networks don't just ferry packets around your office anymore. ZDNet Australia looks at some of the latest developments that allow your network to manage itself more intelligently.

Down and out in Australia

Do Australian companies really need a business continuity plan? ZDNet Australia finds out what all the talk is about in disaster recovery and continuity planning.

The FBI's top 10 online security threats

The FBI has worked with the SANS Institute to develop a list of the 10 most exploited Windows threats.

Hacker code could unleash Windows worm

A hacker group releases code designed to exploit a widespread Windows flaw, paving the way for a major worm attack as soon as this weekend, security researchers warn.

Windows XP to get Bluetooth support

Microsoft has released to manufacturers an update that would add Bluetooth support to Windows XP.

Slash costs with Sun's Java Desktop

Are software licences overloading your IT budget? Here are a few ways to save your department time and money by installing Sun's Java Desktop. Additional reading: How to manage your IT assets

Hands off my assets: 6 asset management packages tested

Sure you know how many PCs are on your network, but can you say for sure how many have out-of-date licenses or pirated software?

Reasons why Windows 98 is still a good choice

Windows XP is all the rage. Windows 98 is old news--get rid of it. Right? Maybe not. Here are some reasons why you might want to stick with Windows 98.

That sneaky SCO-and-SCO

The untimely demise of SCO Linux threw out our plans at the last minute. More importantly, though, will it affect your plans?

Microsoft releases critical updates for IE, Workstation service

Nearly all versions of Internet Explorer need to be updated to fix critical flaws released in Security Bulletin MS03-048. Plus, there's bulletin MS03-049, which reveals a new flaw in the Workstation service of two versions of Windows.

Block unauthorised PC device access with DeviceLock

DeviceLock is designed to lock down a desktop's hardware on a per user basis and this could be your solution to securing a Windows XP workstation.

The hidden relationship between project managers and technical writers

Want to know the secret to better quality documentation and improved software design? This article from Builder.com outlines how the key is an effective relationship between PMs and tech writers.

Mobile rings ranked the top workplace nuisance

Got bad breath? Haven't bathed for a few days? Don't bat an eyelid because irritating mobile phone rings have been voted the top ten workplace annoyances, outranking body odour, bad breath and co-workers who don't change empty toilet rolls, according to a recent survey.

Improve your Linux security: Stop unnecessary services

Linux default installation scripts add a vast number of services to your system and can leave ports open to external break-ins. Identify and stop these services to secure your Linux system.

Choose your next training course carefully

Future career success can hinge on making wise decisions about what skills to add or polish. Here are some considerations you need to take into account when choosing which course of action fits your current and future needs.

Centralise Windows administration with Hyena

Wrestling with the links and shortcuts to all your admin tools and configuration utilities can be inefficient. Luckily, Hyena streamlines the process of managing Windows by combining popular tools into a single console.

Choose your next training course carefully

Future career success can hinge on making wise decisions about what skills to add or polish. Here are some considerations you need to take into account when choosing courses.

XP implementation considerations

You've been given the green light to move to XP; you've even mapped out a deployment method. Plan to review these implementation issues before deploying the new system.

Commentary: Filling the gaps in Windows

Microsoft always has grand plans for Windows, but it's the little things that need fixing first.

Succeeding in integration: Part two

Nothing succeeds like other people's success if you can learn from their experiences, that is.

PCs: Keeping IT green

While recycling is all fine and good, before we go to the trouble of ripping an item to bits and making it into something else ââ,¬" there is an intermediate stage: Reuse!

802.11 options: Supporting wireless users

Whether you want to go wireless with four or five PCs in a small office or you need walk-around connectivity for a thousand corporate users, vendors offer a number of options that can provide the proper access.

Top Windows security threats

Easily exploited vulnerabilities are a hackers favourite target. Use this updated SANS/FBI list of the top threats to Windows to find out where the hackers may be lurking.

Wireless hits notes in 802.11a, b and g

Just when consumers have learned to use--and pronounce--the wireless networks known as 802.11, along comes a few new versions that threaten to confuse the market.

2002 predictions get a low grade

Columnist Tim Landgrave reviews his 2002 predictions and how they fared. While he believes the sluggish economy was a major reason for his poor prediction grades, he's still pretty bullish on a few expectations.

Dell's David Miller: Straight to the source

As Dell Australia welcomes on board a new managing director, David Miller, we ask for his views on the current PC market in Australia.

Building a security response team

With security an ever-increasing concern, enterprises are building security response teams to combat and solve problems. Learn who you should include on such a team, and some models around which you can structure your task force.

HP, Compaq: A meritocracy of dunces?

HP believes that retaining executive talent is what will make the Compaq merger succeed. But history shows that heroes with lofty resumes aren't always enough to turn things around.

Twenty tips to keep PCs out of the junk pile

Without a conscientious effort to properly maintain older computers, your company could be faced with the unenviable task of investing in new technology.

Wireless rivals come together

The Bluetooth wireless standard for connecting peripherals is being integrated with other wireless technologies such as the 802.11b WLAN protocol in chips and devices.

Power your networks to maximise uptime

Managing power so that your data centre systems can receive a clean and continuous supply of electricity is an absolutely critical part of system administration. Here are some tips on how to power your networks.

Big computing flexes Linux muscle

The growing influence of the Linux operating system and the open-source software movement will be on display as several large companies announce products and plans at the LinuxWorld Conference and Expo.

All you need to know to become an MCSA

Microsoft's new MCSA certification is quickly becoming a popular goal for many IT pros, even though they may have very different reasons for wanting to obtain it. Here's a look at the knowledge and skills that you need to earn the MCSA.

Buyers' Guide: Scanning headlines

Knowing what you'll use your scanner for will help you decide what kind of scanner to get.

Microsoft moves to coexist with UNIX

Some product announcements from Microsoft over the last few months do indicate a new willingness to not only admit the existence of UNIX, but also to recognise its success in the enterprise. Take a look.

IT staff: Supporting the executive team

Executives have little time or patience when it comes to failing computers, conflicting software, and login hurdles--which can create nightmares for the help desk team. However, there are several things they can do to help thwart desktop glitches, avoid network problems, and generally make life easier.

Laser printers as dangerous as passive smoking?

Emissions from office laser printers can be as unhealthy as cigarette smoke, according to an Australian professor who is now calling for regulations to limit printer emissions.

HP unveils specialised printers, scanner

Hewlett-Packard has unveiled two Designjet printers aimed at the technical design market, and a device for high-speed document scanning.

Inkjet tech to replace nicotine patch and needles?

Technology adapted from inkjet printers could deliver medicine or vaccines much like a nicotine patch.

New printers for Westmead Children's Hospital

The Children's Hospital in the Sydney suburb of Westmead has signed a new contract with its existing printing partner Lexmark that will deliver new technology to the facility.

WA Attorney-General's dept gets new printers

Western Australia's Department of the Attorney-General has bought almost three quarters of a million dollars worth of Lexmark's newest printers.

Law firm Allens Arthur Robinson saves with HP

The legal firm has reduced costs by up to 30 percent after consolidating its printing and imaging resources with Hewlett-Packard, an executive said.

HP wins restraining order against former executive

Hewlett-Packard was granted a temporary restraining order on Thursday against a former executive who has accused the company in court documents of spying on rival Dell.

Printers get a glimpse of OLED tech

Seiko Epson is bringing emerging OLED technology to one of the more staid pieces of office equipment, the printer.

Australian printer market declining: IDC

The Australian printer market is in decline, according to fourth quarter 2003 figures and overall estimates for 2004 released today by analyst International Data Corp.

HP separates PC group again, names new boss

Five months after merging its PC business with its imaging and printing group, Hewlett-Packard split them up again on Monday and appointed R. Todd Bradley, former chief executive of PalmOne, as new leader of its personal systems group.

Brother recalls printers after fires

Electronics conglomerate Brother International is recalling about 100,000 business printers after reports that some have overheated and caught fire.

Dell mum on printer plans in Oz

PC maker Dell Computer is taking on Hewlett-Packard and others with a quartet of inkjet and laser devices, which it will begin shipping in the U.S. in April, but Australian users may be left behind.

ACCC whips HP cashback into shape

HP Australia has changed its claims processing and complaints handling procedures, following numerous complaints received by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission about the manufacturer's cashback and gift promotions.

Defence rethinks $200m Kaz contract

The Department of Defence has put out a request for information to test a new model for providing the services in its $200 million central ICT infrastructure contract, currently serviced by Kaz Group.

CASA flys to ASG in $8m deal

Western Australian ASX-listed IT services firm ASG today confirmed it had won the Federal Government Civil Aviation Safety Authority's managed services deal over incumbent Darwin-based supplier CSG.

ATO moves on $60m end-user deal

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has released a request for tender for its five-year end-user computing contract worth around $60 million a year.

US university bans Windows 7 beta

Georgetown University in the US has banned the use of the Windows 7 beta, informing students and faculty it will not support the trial version of Microsoft's latest operating system, according to a report.

Palm invests in tiny printers

Handheld maker Palm has taken a stake in a company that hopes to make millions of low-cost digital cameras and portable printers in its factories in China.

CD with 3,000 taxpayer details goes missing

A compact disc containing taxation details of 3,122 Australian taxpayers has gone missing whilst en route to the Australian Taxation Office from its printers.

HP/EDS Australia expect to cut 450

Hewlett-Packard and EDS expected to cut about 7.5 per cent, [approximately 450 workers], out of their combined Australian workforce over the next three years, a spokesperson for EDS' local division said today.

Finance throws Commander a lifeline

Beleaguered IT services company Commander has been awarded a contract worth $3.8 million by the Department of Finance and Deregulation to support the desktops of the Electorate Office, which Finance oversees

Myer centralises back office further

Retail giant Myer has flagged plans to centralise its back-office systems further in what it today described as a "store of the future" initiative.

Agriculture dept praises Commander's work

Commander Communications has claimed success in a major substantial IT relocation and technology refresh program for the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) days after the department put its relationship with the company back out to market.

Extending the life of your printers

Printers can be difficult to maintain but more expensive to replace. So don't write off that printer just yet! Here are some tips that will help you keep your printers from ending up as donations to your favourite charity.

Commander customers face uncertain future

The IT support functions of several large federal and state government agencies face an uncertain future in coming weeks as Commander Communications' receivers attempt to find buyers for the IT services company.

Environment dept makes outsourcing move

The federal Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts (DEWHA) is one step closer to replacing an eight-year-old IT outsourcing contract believed to be held by Commander after it today started briefing the industry on its requirements.

Slump hits Asia printer market

Printer shipments to the Asia- Pacific region inched up a mere 0.2 percent in the second quarter, despite price cuts, aggressive bundling and trade-in programs.

Barbie gets her own printer

Welcome to Barbie's cubicle. Hewlett-Packard, long more comfortable dealing with the computer language Perl than with young girls, nevertheless figures it can bridge the geek gap among kids -- by turning its popular ink-jet printers into Barbie accessories.

Officeworks named as Dell's Aussie retailer

From Monday, office supplies retailer Officeworks will start selling a limited range of pre-configured Dell PCs and laptops at 104 locations across the country.

Photos: Annoying hardware, a rogues' gallery

Hardware may be less 'in your face' than software, but it can still ruin your day. We've listed our main bugbears: let us know if you agree.

Public info kiosk running Citrix hacked in demo

A consultant from McAfee Foundstone has shown how to map the internal network on a public kiosk running Citrix XenApp.

Windows Vista: Sold but not deployed

Microsoft says it remains happy with enterprise sales of Vista -- however, the software behemoth acknowledges that many businesses who have bought Vista licences are yet to deploy the software.

Ubuntu prepares Gutsy Gibbon

Latest alpha release of the Linux distribution shows off some major enhancements planned for the launch in October

Samba and Microsoft strike interoperability pact

Open source software project Samba has signed an agreement with Microsoft to receive protocol documentation for the software giant's Windows workgroup server products.

Dell targets small businesses with new line-up

Dell is targetting small business with a series of laptops, desktop and associated services to cure integration blues for organisations with less than 10 employees.

Green issues define banks' tech investments

Banks are using technology, carbon trading and green contract clauses to minimise the impact of their operations on the environment.

ACT govt plans AU$80m hardware refresh

The Australian Capital Territory government has signalled it will sign new suppliers for PC, server and printer hardware in mid-2007, in arrangements collectively worth between AU$80 million and AU$100 million.

Adobe writes FreeHand obituary

It should come as no surprise, but Adobe Systems has officially declared an end to development of FreeHand illustration software and is trying to coax users to its rival Illustrator package.

Desktop virtualisation opens new doors for users

When Apple released Parallels Desktop in June 2006, it showed most users for the first time what they could achieve with desktop virtualisation.

Dell calls on HP to investigate spying charges

A corporate shoving match has begun between Hewlett-Packard and Dell following new allegations that HP robbed Dell of trade secrets.

Device drivers wanted for 64-bit PCs

Microsoft and Apple are pushing ahead with 64-bit computers, despite device drivers and application for the high-powered systems being thin on the ground.

Climate change: Australian IT's starting point

After spending years researching technology's role in climate change, a Sydney IT director has created a wiki to share ideas, tips and techniques on going green.

SA govt finalises EDS replacements

The South Australian state government has finalised the first round of new ICT select sourcing deals as it carves up its massive 10-year outsourcing deal with Texan giant Electronic Data Systems (EDS).

Seagate simplifies remote access for SMBs

Seagate has launched a free remote access service for the small business market that enables users to access files on their external storage device from any Internet-enabled computer.

Two Linux consortia band together

The Open Source Developer Labs and the Free Standards Group, two groups trying to standardise and steer Linux, have merged in an effort to increase their influence.

Tassie Health dept searches for identity

Tasmania's Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has flagged plans to rollout a comprehensive identity and access management solution to its 12,000 staff next year.

Acer bags NAB PC deal

The National Australia Bank has awarded Acer a contract to supply up to 20,000 desktops and notebooks under a refresh project that is also seeing the institution shift to a Windows XP standard operating environment (SOE) across its Australian business.

Patch Tuesday comes for Vista too

While Microsoft has touted Windows Vista as its most secure client operating system yet, the unfinished product is already getting regular security fixes.

Sydney Water signs business intelligence vendor

Sydney Water has signed an extensive deal with vendor Business Objects to assist in the utility's business intelligence program, with a larger contract on leased IT assets still being decided on.

Uptick in Windows attacks reported

Several security experts are warning of increased cyberattacks targeting Windows PCs, but Microsoft says all is calm on the attack front.

Full coverage: AusCERT 2006

An annual survey coordinated by the Australian Computer Emergency Response Team has revealed that electronic attacks on businesses have decreased, but is it all good news?

HP beats expectations, but CEO cautious

Hewlett-Packard reported on Tuesday that its net income increased 9 percent to US$966 million for its first quarter under the management of chief executive Mark Hurd, results that lifted the printer and computer maker just ahead of analysts' expectations.

Worm duo tries to hijack Windows PCs

Two worms based on a recently disclosed Windows flaw have been unleashed, but the attacks so far don't appear to be widespread, security experts said.

JavaScript opens doors to browser-based attacks

Security researchers have found a way to use JavaScript to map a home or corporate network and attack connected servers or devices, such as printers or routers.

Inkjet refiller lashes out at HP for lawsuit

Rhinotek's chairman has sharply criticised Hewlett-Packard for a lawsuit asserting that the inkjet cartridge refiller falsely advertises its products as new.

Turning Wine into Windows on a Mac

It used to be that running Windows programs on a Mac was a slow, painful process. There was only one option: running Virtual PC emulation software.

Microsoft bug-checking tools promise fewer crashes

Microsoft is readying two tools to help hardware makers create more stable and secure Windows drivers, which should help reduce the number of crashes.

Microsoft shows off JPEG rival

If it is up to Microsoft, the omnipresent JPEG image format will be replaced by Windows Media Photo.

HP phases out group for emerging markets

Hewlett-Packard has disbanded a group dedicated to creating technology for emerging nations, though the company says it will continue to develop products for this market.

Intel: Driver flaws no major threat, yet

Flaws in driver software may be worrisome and a potentially serious threat, but security experts at Intel see no need for alarm. At least, not yet.

HP's iPod to lead consumer push

Hoping to make a big bang in consumer electronics, Hewlett-Packard plans on Friday to unveil its long-awaited HP-branded iPod, along with its first televisions, an entertainment hub and the usual array of new printers and cameras, sources said.

2008 Olympics could go open source

The 2008 Beijing Olympic Games could switch to an open-source technology platform under proposals to be considered by the International Olympic Committee.

HP to announce restructuring tonight

Hewlett-Packard said it will announce details of a company restructuring plan on Tuesday morning in the United States during a pair of conference calls with chief executive officer Mark Hurd.

Windows only for $140m government tender

The Northern Territory government has released details of its four-year, $35 million per annum desktop sourcing tender.

New Holden HQ has VoIP under the bonnet

Holden has turned to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) as the centrepiece of a technology-driven upgrade designed to boost employee productivity.

Lexmark provides fraud protection with magnetic ink

Printer manufacturer Lexmark on Wednesday teamed up with Dataline, a Magnetic Ink Character Recognition specialist, to help companies automatically recognise fraudulent documents and more easily organise their financial paperwork.

Lenovo touts notebooks, Olympics push

Lenovo's quest for worldwide acceptance will begin at the upcoming Winter Olympics.

Flatbed scanner sales plummet

IDC's total scanner market shows a year-on-year decline of 47.3 percent and an even 30 percent sequential drop in unit shipment terms for the second half of 2003.

Qantas kicks off application review

The nation's leading carrier plans to examine how it delivers software applications as the next step in a billion-dollar-plus IT transformation project spearheaded by CIO Fiona Balfour.

Family Dept to dump TRIM for Interwoven

The federal government's Department of Family and Community Services (FaCS) will switch away from Tower's TRIM software and start managing its paper records with an Interwoven solution.

Dell appoints new ANZ managing director

Dell has appointed a new boss for Australia and New Zealand following the elevation of the incumbent to a top post in the PC maker's Chinese operations.

Google takes ad sales to print

Google is expanding its lucrative Internet advertising network into the print world in a bold attempt to capture traditional ad dollars.

Does HP need a new course?

Hewlett-Packard says it needs a new captain, not a new course, but outsiders say the company needs to change its tack.

Fiorina steps down at HP

Carly Fiorina, the embattled leader of Hewlett-Packard, stepped down as chairman and CEO on Wednesday as HP tries to redefine itself for a new era.

IBM signs five year deal with Woolworths

IBM Global Services has signed a five year contract to supply Total Service Management (TSM) to retailer Woolworths.

Samba servers vulnerable to DoS attacks

The Samba Team released on Tuesday a patch to fix two flaws that could result in disruptions for networks using the widely installed Unix and Linux software.

HP fattened up before latest trim

The head of Hewlett-Packard surveys the giant company, figures 150,000 workers is too many, and chooses to cut thousands of jobs.

Microsoft gunning for Adobe's PDF format?

When Bill Gates showed off the new Metro document format in Longhorn at a hardware conference last week, some analysts were quick to call it a PDF killer.

Do-gooder Trojan has nasty bite

Symantec is warning Internet users of a Trojan horse that removes spyware but alters the security settings in computers.

Gartner dubious over HP prospects

Gartner analysts are bearish about the prospects of HP, giving the computing giant a 'caution' rating.

Fiorina unveils HP's consumer goods for 2005

Speaking at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas on Friday morning, HP CEO Carly Fiorina offered a sneak peek at the products her company will try to insert into people's living rooms, as well as prototypes of other things yet to come.

Novell SuSE Linux beta adds NetWare

Novell has begun a public beta programme for Open Enterprise Server, which brings NetWare services to SuSE Linux.

HP says settles ink jet patent lawsuits

Computer and printer maker Hewlett-Packard says it has settled inkjet patent infringement lawsuits in Germany and France.

Microsoft launches 64-bit Windows

After revving the engine for quite a while, Microsoft is hoping to take 64-bit computing into the fast lane.

Microsoft won't dance with Samba

The Free Software Foundation is lobbying the European government to reject the server licence that Microsoft has proposed following the European Commission's antitrust ruling. Microsoft's terms, says the FSF, will mean that open source software such as the widely-used Samba file and print server software, will not be included in the interoperability measures intended by the EU.

Rumour site pictures Photo iPod for holidays

Mac sites were abuzz Friday on reports that Apple Computer is readying a colour-screen iPod in time for the holidays.

HP to pay US$105 million to settle Canada dispute

Hewlett-Packard will reimburse the Canadian government US$105 million (146 million Canadian dollars) to resolve a contractual dispute, but plans legal action to recover the money from the parties it says are responsible, the Palo Alto computer and printer maker said Friday.

Sydney's disadvantaged get free computer training and Web access

Disadvantaged Sydneysiders have been given a chance to learn new computer skills and gain free access to the Internet with the "BootUp Internet Cafes" initiative.

Counting on print management software

Printer administration software, might not be the sexiest software around but if your organisation has a lot of widely distributed printers, your IT guys are not going to be happy little soldiers if you don't have any.

Bugbear runs rampant in Australian Parliament

The bugbear virus is causing havoc for the second time in a month at the Australian Parliament House in Canberra, interrupting the government's operations and highlighting dangerous security flaws.

HP joins the digital party

Hewlett-Packard has announced home networking products allowing digital photos and music to be viewed through a television.

NZ retailers enjoy wireless EFTPOS

New Zealand pulls a first in Australasia with its wireless EFTPOS via CDMA now available to retailers.

Rollins to take up the reins at Dell

Twenty years after starting in a University of Texas dorm room what is now the world's largest PC company, Michael Dell is handing the reins over to a new CEO.

Adobe, others slip counterfeiting code into apps

Adobe and other makers of image-manipulation programs have, at the behest of a little-known group of national banks, inserted secret technology into their programs to foil counterfeiting, the companies acknowledged last week.

Longhorn to put squeeze on gadgets

Windows makes it easy to quickly download files to iPods and other portable storage devices--a little too easy in the minds of many IT managers.

Gates predicts death of the password

Microsoft chairman Bill Gates has predicted the demise of the traditional password because it cannot "meet the challenge" of keeping critical information secure.

Basic network flaw could disrupt Net

Software flaws in a fundamental language of the Internet could leave the Net's basic infrastructure in danger of disruption if the holes are left unpatched, an Internet security watchdog has warned.

Is a bulked-up HP ready for battle?

Although Hewlett-Packard is finally getting settled into married life, some analysts say the company still needs to figure out what it wants to be when it grows up.

Document central: Multifunction imaging centres

If your business has heavy duty copying, scanning, printing, and faxing needs, take a look at the latest multifunction imaging centres.

JPEG patent suit targets 31 major firms

A who's who of the hardware business are being sued by Forgent Networks, a software company that claims rights over the compression technology behind the image format.

The refashioning of HP

newsmakers -- When Hewlett-Packard announced its intention to acquire Compaq Computer, critics attacked the plan as a lamebrained idea and said CEO Carly Fiorina was stepping into a tar pit that would swallow up both companies.

Apple's AirPort adds home music streaming

Apple Computer unveiled on Monday a $129 device that acts as both a portable wireless base station and a way to stream music throughout the home.

Worm attack puts Australian users under siege

Australian computer users are coming under seige, with two separate worms infiltrating systems with damaging and costly effect.

Symantec snaps up SafeWeb

Security company Symantec has acquired SafeWeb, a maker of secure network devices, for US$26 million in cash--as the tide of consolidation continues to sweep through the security industry.

AU Tax Office extends outsourcing deal with EDS

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has extended their outsourcing arrangement with troubled IT giant Electronic Data Systems (EDS).

Apple invites open source to Rendezvous

The Mac maker says it's not just opening up the source code for its Rendezvous networking tool--it's actively courting open-source developers to work with the technology.

Will Apple bite on Motorola's PowerPC chip?

Motorola on Monday announced a faster PowerPC chip that could be used in speedier Apple Computer laptops.

EDS lauds outsourcing benefits amid SA revamp

EDS has released a report claiming the company's massive whole-of-government outsourcing deal with the South Australian government generated an AU$1 billion "side benefit" to the state over the last nine years.

Fancy a recycled Dell PC?

Come June, Dell Computer will start its PC recycling programme in Australia and New Zealand. Apart from the environmental upside, will this lead to cheaper PCs?

New technologies face legal headaches

Companies face a host of legal land mines that they need to consider when developing emerging technology, attorneys at the O'Reilly Emerging Technology Conference told developers Tuesday.

A billion PC users on the way

By the end of the decade, a billion people will be clicking away at computers, but generating a profit out of newly wired portions of the world is going to take a lot of work.

HP bags Mayne Group outsourcing deal

IT vendor and managed services provider Hewlett Packard (HP) has managed to corner a six-year "multi-million dollar outsourcing contract" with diversified transport and health specialist the Mayne Group.

Bluetooth chipmaker warns of cash crunch

Cambridge Silicon Radio, the UK-based Bluetooth chipmaker, said Monday that it will need more cash by the end of next year.

Microsoft moves on 'critical' Windows flaw

Microsoft on Wednesday warned of three new security gaps in its software, including one "critical" Windows flaw that could allow a hacker to run unauthorised code on victims' PCs.

HP closes book on Compaq deal

After a rancorous eight-month proxy fight, a three-day trial, countless speeches, a blizzard of regulatory filings, and a bitter boardroom squabble, Hewlett-Packard has completed the largest technology merger in history by acquiring Compaq Computer.

Lindows hits virtual shelves

Lindows on Monday unveiled the latest version of its low-cost operating system aimed at bringing Linux to the masses.

Intel envisions TiVo-like wireless PCs

Intel wants desktop PCs to double up as network hubs and video recorders, a move that could make life tough for the companies that produce those standalone products.

Running Linux with Office XP: Ready for business?

Linux has made a big impact in the server room, but usability issues and lock-in to Microsoft Office have conspired to hold it back on the desktop. Has that all changed?

Report: New standard helps Wi-Fi growth

A new Wi-Fi standard is picking up where its predecessor left off, helping to maintain strong growth in wireless networking as the market prepares for combination products next year, according to a research report.

UPDATE: New worm poised to unleash hell on MS

A worm that takes advantage of what some security experts describe as the most widespread Windows flaw ever has started spreading, while new analysis has uncovered a time bomb in the worm's code poised to unleash a furious denial of service attack at Microsoft itself.

Microsoft warns of critical Windows flaw

Windows users should expect to have another update from Microsoft waiting for them on their computers.

HP holds tight amid wild ride

Analysts are concerned HP will miss its estimates again due to declining printer markets, server market share and a PC sales slump.

Linux racks up corporate credentials

Ahead of LinuxWorld next week, IBM and HP announce more big corporate customers for the relatively young operating system.

NSW schools e-mail project delayed and under fire

The New South Wales Department of Education's (DET) new system to provide Web and email facilities to 1.3 million users in the state's educational institutions is to undergo an additional testing that could leave the project late and over budget.

Smart Fuel Mobile shows off 'alcoholic' laptop power

Running your mobile phone on alcohol is becoming closer to reality than a drinker's dream, thanks to Bavarian technology.

Adobe takes wireless path

Future is 'network publishing', company argues

Flaw in Windows worm tips off defenders

The fast-spreading "MSBlast" worm seems to be crashing as many Windows computers as it's infecting, clueing administrators in to the fact that they need to patch their systems, security experts said Monday.

CA's Sanjay Kumar: We'll manage on-demand

Computer Associates Chairman and CEO Sanjay Kumar has the prevailing winds at his back. He is betting that the latest trend--on-demand delivery of computing resources--stirred up by companies like IBM, HP and Sun--will expand the market for the company's flagship Unicenter network management products.

Does the world really need two wireless networking technologies?

Bluetooth and WiFi (aka 802.11b) have both been much in the news lately, and while WiFi got the fastest start, Bluetooth appears to be gaining traction in the marketplace.

HP, Kodak team on photo processing

Eastman Kodak, the photography company, and Hewlett-Packard, known for its computer printers, confirmed Friday (AEST) a venture to develop and manufacture inkjet digital photo-processing machines.

HP targets 3,000 managerial jobs

Blaming a "rapid deterioration" in consumer IT spending, Hewlett-Packard plans to lay off up to 3,000 people in management positions as part broader cost-cutting moves.

Adobe touts OS X advantage over Quark

The publishing-software giant may be gaining ground on its main rival in the page-layout realm as long-time market leader Quark continues to delay support for Apple Computer's OS X.

Digital photography's road ahead

New open standards for digital images may yet prove the salvation of the digital camera market.

Wi-Fi: The revolution will not be oversold?

To be a networking player in 2003, Wi-Fi is not just a good idea. It is not an option. It is an absolute essential. But don't let the whiff of industry fashion fool you. Despite the best efforts of the hype-meisters, this revolution is showing signs of keeping its feet on the ground.

Aust Mac faithful await Jaguar

Mac enthusiasts expect solid sales of the latest Mac OS, code-named 'Jaguar', despite Apple not offering a discounted upgrade to customers who purchased the last version before July 18.

Gear beyond your means?

While I'm coming up with something controversial to rant about for next month, some housekeeping. For instance, what happened to T&B Cool Gear?

PeopleSoft peddles 'total ownership'

The total ownership experience will do for enterprise software what USB did for printers, says PeopleSoft CEO Craig Conway.

Is there a hole in your wireless network?

White-hat hackers are being employed to expose one of the newest and potentially most dangerous security holes in business, in the form of wireless computer networks.

Gaping holes

We have more information at our fingertips than ever before; unfortunately it's not the information we want.

Seagate drive targets game consoles

Seagate Technology has announced a new hard-drive design aimed at consumer-electronics devices, including video game consoles and audio appliances.

Windows XP still waiting for Bluetooth

As Microsoft forges ahead with USB 2.0 and other advanced connection technologies, Bluetooth is still lagging.

Comdex: Mobile business services creating a buzz

Mobile business services - this year's buzz topic in Las Vegas

The pragmatic radical

Q&A Michael Dell, the chairman and CEO of namesake computer maker Dell, certainly knows how to fit his image to his company.

Downgrade clips Lexmark shares

Lexmark International shares fell 7 1/4, or 10 percent, to 65 1/2 Wednesday after Bear Stearns cut the maker of computer printers from a "buy" recommendation to "attractive."

Jini: Sun's incredible disappearing act

Like many circus sideshows, Sun Microsystems Jini has not lived up to its early hype. When Sun unveiled Jini nearly two years ago, the company promised that Jini-enabled devices would plug seamlessly into a network, find each other and use each other's services.

A little Zip in every peripheral?

Sneaker Net is back, or so storage maker Iomega hopes.

Why Windows makes mobility so hard

For those who experienced "Windows rage" after changing all the settings on their notebook between a Windows' domain at work and a home workgroup network. Take heart: you're not alone.

Bluetooth shortage to ease

The wireless 'personal area network' is to become part of the future Supranet, predict experts - but only if it can overcome inherent limitations.

One.Tel sells off possessions

One.Tel's unsecured creditors may be able to pocket something from the collapsed telco afterall, when fixtures and fittings, including a life-size figure of -The Dude", go under the hammer in Sydney next week.

Spammers slipping ads through Windows

Spammers have co-opted an administration feature in Microsoft's Windows operating systems and are using it to bring up intrusive advertisements on Internet-connected computers.

Lexmark Australia quiet about deceptive advertising claims

Lexmark Australia claims legal advice prohibits it from speaking about the local impact of a deceptive advertising lawsuit brought against its US parent company.

Microprocessors become multi-taskers

The same microprocessor that lets you burn through a game of "Gran Turismo" may soon be running your PC's printer, as electronics manufacturers increasingly rely on general-purpose processors.

Mobile rings ranked the top workplace nuisance

Got bad breath? Haven't bathed for a few days? Don't bat an eyelid because irritating mobile phone rings have been voted the top ten workplace annoyances, outranking body odour, bad breath and co-workers who don't change empty toilet rolls, according to a recent survey.

Improve your Linux security: Stop unnecessary services

Linux default installation scripts add a vast number of services to your system and can leave ports open to external break-ins. Identify and stop these services to secure your Linux system.

Experts: Copyright law changes technology

Attempts to protect copyrighted material have strayed from their original purpose, say lawyers, technologists and academics, but few can agree on the solution.

Old game machine learns hack trick

Sega's defunct Dreamcast gaming console, which has long fallen out of favour with gamers, has surprisingly gained a new lease on life.

Strathfield Direct: Click in and jive away

According to Australian electronics e-tailer, Strathfield Direct, the tricky part of online selling is making sure the back end is set up in a way that allows easily fulfillment of customer orders.

Mac, Windows updates on the way

Apple Computer and Microsoft have taken steps toward releasing important operating system updates.

Network autodiscovery tools: weak or costly?

Autodiscovery tools can help uncover hidden or forgotten additions in the network. While many tools are available that claim to do this well, IT professionals have found that they're all either ineffectual or cost-prohibitive.

HP weighs in a year later

It's been a year since Hewlett-Packard finalised its acquisition of Compaq Computer, but analysts and others are still asking whether the whole is bigger than the sum of the parts.

The productive home office

More professionals are turning to home offices as a way of balancing work and home lives. But, how can you set up a home office that allows you to still get work done?

CES 2003: Anywhere, anytime technology

Gadgets featured at the Consumer Electronics Show 2003 make technology available anywhere, anytime. ZDNet Australia presents this special coverage of the show.

Dow Corning: Tearing into waste!

To escape from its documentation nightmare, Dow Corning called on an ASP specialising in procurement applications for enterprisewide printing and graphic communications materials.

Commentary: Filling the gaps in Windows

Microsoft always has grand plans for Windows, but it's the little things that need fixing first.

EMC, Dell partner on new storage system

EMC and Dell, two companies famous for going it alone, will soon unveil a new storage system that will mark a new era of cooperation.

Intel Australia takes US lead, cuts Pentium prices

Intel Australia has followed the US lead and cut prices on its Pentium 4 and Pentium 3 chips to make way for new processors that will appear over the next few weeks.

Mac vs. PC: Which is better for business?

A friend of mine is starting a new business. I get to choose which computer he's going to use. Question is: Should we go with the PC or the Mac? Here's what I think.

The End of the LCD Screen -- At Last!

Don't adjust your spell checker: The new term someday soon for your laptop display will be LEP, not LCD. In fact, we're about to see a whole new range of display devices, including the possible replacement of the morning newspaper.

Updated program opens Unix security hole

SSH Communications Security, a Finnish company, has reported that the latest edition of its SSH Secure Shell software, version 3.0.0, released June 21, can let an attacker gain control over some Unix or Linux computers.

PCs: Keeping IT green

While recycling is all fine and good, before we go to the trouble of ripping an item to bits and making it into something else ââ,¬" there is an intermediate stage: Reuse!

'Celebrating' the PC's one-billionth birthday

Over a billion PCs have been shipped around the world, but is this really a cause for celebration?

FireWire or USB: And the winner is?

A speed boost with USB 2.0 gets PC makers excited. But a faster FireWire is just around the corner.

The broadband route

Looking for an easy way to extend that broadband connection to more of your organisation's PCs? ZDNet Australia explores which broadband routers could be the solution.

Big HP investor backs Compaq deal

One of Hewlett-Packard's largest institutional investors said it supports the planned acquisition of Compaq Computer, a rare statement in an industry where many tend not to disclose their positions.

Palm calls for a sharper Bluetooth

The handheld maker is releasing new software to spur its field of 180,000 developers to design programs in new areas--and give some bite to its wireless handhelds.

Bluetooth proof that Microsoft can innovate

The Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP)--which will undoubtedly play a significant role in the Internet's future--is an idea hatched in Microsoft's labs.

Intel says it really is a connected world

Intel is backing an interconnected world, having purchased a number of key network companies, and planning a few more purchases besides.

Intel says it really is a connected world

Intel is backing an interconnected world, having purchased a number of key network companies, and planning a few more purchases besides.

Linux poised to plug in USB 2

Support for a faster version of USB in Linux is imminent and will become a permanent part of the Linux landscape when the next version of the operating system is introduced.

HP modems die a sudden death

Hewlett Packard is in damage control after the discovery of a bug that virtually destroys the modems housed on several of its most popular PC brands, but remains unsure of it's impact on Australian customers.

PC makers slide on weak outlook

Shares of two of the world's top computer hardware makers, Dell Computer and Hewlett-Packard have fallen sharply after both companies said they saw price wars and little relief in sight from slack US demand.

Why didn't mobile platforms trip Microsoft up?

In the late 90s, we thought the diversity of mobile platforms would break Microsoft's monopoly. What went wrong?

Five technology mistakes smart companies make

The hidden costs for outdated technology are bigger than you think. Here's how to reclaim precious time and money.

Walter Hewlett: Opening up about HP

Amid an escalating war of words with Hewlett-Packard's board, Walter Hewlett tells the inside story behind his opposition.

Office politics: Microsoft Office XP vs Sun StarOffice 6

Sun would like to think it can succeed where others have failedÃ,­ââ,¬"in breaking Microsoft's stranglehold on the office productivity marketââ,¬"by offering a product that's almost as good as Microsoft Office at a much lower price. Do the sums add up?

UPDATE: Up to 600 HP Australia jobs cut

Hewlett-Packard will shave up to 600 people off its Australian workforce as a result of the recent merger.

Personal tech Visionary: Simplicity is key

Mike Nuttal believes that simplicity is key to a successful product and that integrated devices such as combination mobile phone-camera-MP3 players are a step in the wrong direction.

2002 predictions get a low grade

Columnist Tim Landgrave reviews his 2002 predictions and how they fared. While he believes the sluggish economy was a major reason for his poor prediction grades, he's still pretty bullish on a few expectations.

DVD players no longer go it alone

To prevent DVD players from becoming victims of their own popularity, manufacturers are starting to combine basic movie playback with more advanced features.

Printing Without a PC

Although the personal computer is far from being obsolete, an increasing number of peripherals let you perform computer-related chores without a PC. One recent example is Lexmark International's $699 Lexmark Photo Jetprinter 5770.

Computers donated to East Timor

The Australian Computer Society has coordinated the donation of hardware and software worth over AU$20,000 to the Conference for Sustainable Development of East Timor.

Penguin-powered POS

Introducing a new Linux-based rugged handheld computer, designed to meet the needs of a wide range of commercial mobile computing applications.

Sun: HP-Compaq move is "destructive"

A senior executive at Sun Microsystems has described the marriage between Hewlett-Packard and Compaq Computer as a "destructive merger".

Fiorina: The quest continues

Only a month ago, pundits were speculating whether Carleton Fiorina would be dismissed as chief executive of Hewlett-Packard. Now she finds herself running the second-largest PC company behind IBM.

Dell services: Trouble ahead?

The company's focus on corporate services leads to big contracts and growing revenue for both Dell and its services partners. But conflicts with those partners could be looming.

Korea tests power lines for Net traffic

Internet traffic may soon find an alternate route in Korea as part of a test to transmit broadband services via power lines.

Industry heavyweights launch Enfrastructure

Microsoft, IBM, Avaya and Arthur Andersen have teamed up to launch a new venture designed to provide new-economy companies with all the business and technology infrastructure components necessary to get to market quickly.

Nokia Unveils Linux-Based Net Device

Finnish telecom equipment maker Nokia said on Friday it had launched its Media Terminal, bringing Internet to the living room, the first in a range of products it was introducing for the "connected home."

Online auctions: Beware the hidden booby prize

The important rule for consumers looking to buy through online auctions? -- Make sure you know the rules before you buy.

USB problems cause Apple to update iMac

Apple updated its Universal Serial Bus software for the iMac, apparently in response to reports of problems printing to USB printers and with other peripheral devices.

Jini aims to prove it can grant wishes

Jini, a Sun Microsystems technology introduced in July, is supposed to let you control your computer, kitchen appliances and even sprinkler system from remote locations.

Banking on brain power

The secret to edging out the competition is dicovering where your organisation's knowledge lies, and managing it effectively. ZDNet Australia investigates.

HP, Compaq: A meritocracy of dunces?

HP believes that retaining executive talent is what will make the Compaq merger succeed. But history shows that heroes with lofty resumes aren't always enough to turn things around.

HP, Compaq: Dumb and dumber?

A merger would create a bloated, vulnerable company anchored on the manufacture of commodity products at little or no profit.

Could Macs mean business at last?

Is recently released Mac OS X Jaguar just a catch-up to Windows XP features, or is there more to Apple's latest operating system than meets the eye.

Microsoft unplugs Windows XP

Windows XP will support a wireless protocol that allows PCs and laptops to share the same Net connection. It may give the lagging market for home networking the jump-start it needs.

New Samba steps onto Microsoft turf

It's here--the latest update to the open source software that lets Linux machines mimic Windows file and print servers. Is Microsoft feeling the pressure?

HP to buy Compaq for AU$47.5 billion

In news just in, Hewlett-Packard will acquire Compaq Computer in a stock swap worth about AU$47.5 billion, according to published reports.

OS X may attract enterprises

Apple's long-awaited OS X has finally been launched. With its stability and power, and growing developer support, will the Mac gain more of a foothold in businesses?

Windows XP working its connections

Microsoft next year plans to update Windows XP to support two technologies left out of the new operating system: USB 2.0 and Bluetooth. But customers may not have to wait.

PC Expo: Where are all the desktops?

This year's PC Expo is much quieter than in the past, a sign of the slowdown in the PC industry. But what's really surprising is that some major PC makers are featuring consumer goods, not desktops.

Centralise security for success

Increased security can be a huge hassle for IT departments that have to manage users' permissions and passwords. Centralising the task can make it simpler and more efficient.

Power your networks to maximise uptime

Managing power so that your data centre systems can receive a clean and continuous supply of electricity is an absolutely critical part of system administration. Here are some tips on how to power your networks.

Big computing flexes Linux muscle

The growing influence of the Linux operating system and the open-source software movement will be on display as several large companies announce products and plans at the LinuxWorld Conference and Expo.

Enterprise solutions for securing collaboration

Since there's little chance of stopping file sharing these days, what's a feasible solution to securing enterprise data?

Supercomputing: Virtually fighting disease

A free Internet service provider hopes its Virtual Supercomputer Project will help reverse its cash flow and keep email free, while helping scientists search the human genome for disease-fighting proteins.

Last big push for 'Classic Mac' OS

The next major update to Apple Computer's Mac OS 9 has passed its first testing milestone. It may also be the last significant release for the "classic" Mac OS before all of Apple's efforts turn completely to Mac OS X when it is released early next year.

HP, Linux snag DreamWorks deal

Linux has infiltrated the brains of the DreamWorks digital animation studios, with Hewlett-Packard machines displacing SGI workstations.

Season of sloth

The last two weeks of the year are generally the most unproductive. Here are some suggestions for using this time of the year as a chance to catch up on those number two tasks that never quite make it to priority level.

Prices sliding for Pentium III PCs

To help proliferate the Pentium 4, Intel is effectively eliminating the Pentium III from the desktop market. As a result, computer manufacturers have begun to reduce already-discounted prices on their existing inventories of these computers.

Tracking sales: Software options

The benefits of keeping information centralised and up to date are obvious. ZDNet Australia looks at software packages designed to help your sales force stay on track.

Keeping PCs out of the junk pile

Smaller IT budgets have caused support pros to require computers to work longer than originally intended. Here are some tips to help you develop a strategy for keeping older PCs in tip-top shape.

Intel's PC redesign gets thumbs up

In a win for Intel, a key industry group has voted in favour of the chipmaker's proposal to rework the innards of computers.

Intel scores PC-redesign victory

In a win for Intel, a key industry group has voted in favor of the chipmaker's proposal to rework the innards of computers, and a who's who of industry heavy hitters will promote the technology.

Intel claims major chip coup

Industry heavyweights launch Enfrastructure

Microsoft, IBM, Avaya and Arthur Andersen have teamed up to launch a new venture designed to provide new-economy companies with all the business and technology infrastructure components necessary to get to market quickly.

BankWest to pilot mobile payments

Mobile payment solutions are entering a strange new world in an initiative currently being piloted by BankWest, EFTPOS provider EftNet and smartcard company Keycorp.

Fatbrain.com Launches Vanity Press

If the previews are any indication, Fatbrain.com may be the Johannes Gutenberg of the digital age.

Send fax by e-mail

Ricoh has announced internet fax capabilities for its FAX4800L, allowing users to fax documents to a recipient's PC as an e-mail message.

Diamond banks on home networks

Multimedia hardware maker Diamond Multimedia Systems has unveiled its second product for networking multiple-PC homes.

Pulp Fiction: Turning paper digital

It's hard to imagine doing away with paperââ,¬"sticky notes, receipts, newspaper articles, faxes, and such. But new technology and advanced applications will see the myth of a paperless office becoming a reality. Get ready to burn those books!

Troubleshooting network problems

Most networks either run the TCP/IP protocol as their primary network or protocol, or, at minimum, their stack contains TCP/IP for Internet connectivity. If this is the case in your IT shop, troubleshooting your network problems using the built-in TCP/IP tool suite can save a lot of timeâ€"if you know the right tools to use.

Novell: Running from behind

Novell is on the cusp of a new stage in its life, hoping to revive its bottom line by diversifying into e-business consulting services through its pending merger with Cambridge Technology Partners.

Bluetooth cuts the cord

Anticipation of the wireless standard taking hold is old news. But the waiting is finally over, and the first ready-for-prime-time products are trickling into the market. By year's end, a flood of Bluetooth-enabled, enterprise-worthy devices is expected. We take an inside look at the future of the long-awaited Bluetooth.

XP product activation: Solution, not conspiracy

Since Windows XP went 'Gold', the conspiracy theorists and corporate planners have been hard at work. Contrary to the beliefs espoused by the 'Oliver Stone' DOJ advocates, Microsoft did not rush XP to market to beat some artificial government deadline and avoid an injunction.

Surviving the economic carnage

Since the beginning of the year, more than 300,000 jobs across the globe have been eliminated.

Handicapper's guide to storage

Moore's Law applies to disk drives, too. Every 18 months, the capacity seems to double. So do the choices. Here's a handicapper's guide to today's storage options.

Indrema invites gamers to become game developers

The "Fifth Console," an inexpensive Internet, gaming, mp3 and DVD center, is making it easier than ever to author computer games.

Microsoft: Watch this space

Who wants to be known as the "knowledge worker champion"? Obviously, not Microsoft group vice president Bob Muglia.

Linux: Live in your living room

First it was Linux games. Then it was embedded Linux running on consumer devices. Now Intel is pushing Linux for your home network. The company is releasing a Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) development kit for the OS.

Optus@Home readies

The first customers will be connected to Optus@Home before the end of the year, John Garner, the director of marketing, programming and sales for At Home Network Australia, said.
Optus@Home is the long awaited broadband Internet service from Optus, which has formed a joint venture with Excite@Home.

3Com, Microsoft Kick Off Home Ethernet

Pounding home a message of simple networking, 3Com and Microsoft this week will ship the first of their cobranded home networking products.

Diamond launches wireless networking products

Multimedia hardware maker Diamond Multimedia Systems has started shipping its HomeFree wireless networking home-network solution.

Are you a *real* Linux geek?

Do you know you could turn your Linux system into a real radio transmitter, using nothing but the system's parallel port as the wireless media interface?

Dell dogs PC rivals

As top dog in the PC industry, Dell Computer is looking to make its bite as nasty as its bark.

Dell dogs PC market rivals

As top dog in the PC industry, Dell Computer is looking to make its bite as nasty as its bark.

Walking Dead

Technology's a lethal weapon. You may already be a casualty and not even know it.

OS Wars: Microsoft vs Open Source

Can one operating system fit all your needs? Or is it a matter of mixing and matching to the tasks at hand? ZDNet Australia assembled a panel of IT experts to find out which OS fits best.

Gateway to a connected home

Gateway, in partnership with America Online, has announced a "Connected Touch Pad" device for home users.

Windows XP catches the FireWire 'bus'

Microsoft will not support a budding peripheral-connection standard in its forthcoming Windows XP operating system, instead favouring a technology developed by Apple Computer.

Cisco brings management suite to small business

Cisco Systems on Monday extended the reach of its CiscoWorks Windows network management software down to small and midsize businesses with a version that officials say is cheaper and easier to use.

Nicole Manktelow: Haiku for a modern workplace

With the editor off in Japan, soaking up culture and no doubt some superb gadgetry, it's only fitting that the observations made on this page are in a suitable form-Japanese poems of five syllables, then seven, then five.

Sun's Joy rips Windows 2000

SEATTLE -- It was hard to miss the irony: Sun cofounder and chief scientist Bill Joy spoke to a University of Washington computer science class just steps away from the construction site for a building commemorating Bill Gates' mother.

Intel gives a peek at future PC designs

For the computer crowd, Intel's 'fashion show' was the geek chic equivalent of a Vivienne Westwood Spring collection showing.

Jobs gets hero's welcome in Paris

Steve Jobs' Apple Expo 98 keynote address in Paris must have seemed like some kind of a homecoming.

Laid-off techies swiping goods on way out

As dot-coms fail and tech giants lay off thousands of workers, employees frequently walk out the door with desktop computers, telephones and handheld devices--even heavy office furniture, copy machines, research devices and sophisticated computer servers.

Some strings attached

Vendor, service provider ties raise issues of objectivity

Internet security threats: Protect yourself

Someday they're going to get to you. Your Web site. Your company network. The portable PCs you and your employees use to work at home and on the road. As long as they're connected to the Internet or to each other, they're vulnerable. And that means your business is at risk.

Developers brace for Mac OS X

While the public beta of the next-generation OS may not be quite ready for prime time, third-party vendors want to be up to speed when it arrives.

IBM plots next PowerPC chips

The company's processor releases, scheduled for next quarter, could make their way into a variety of embedded applications as well as the next wave of Apple PowerBooks.

The cheque is in the e-mail

Electronic billing is back, and this time, it means business, as many companies and financial institutions roll out electronic bill payment schemes.

2001 - The year that was in technology

2001 was a blockbuster year for technology releases, with several markets experiencing a glut of new product arrivals. ZDNet Australia takes a look back at the latest offerings in PDAs, mobile phones, chips, software and other hardware.

Should you set your sights on Windows XP?

Microsoft's Windows XP has received a fair amount of hype in the lead up to its release-Matt Lake and Josh Mehlman assess its usefulness for businesses.

Bluetooth: Painful extractions

Bluetooth might be the darling of the media and the talk of the pundits, but the fledgling technology's future is cloudy at best. Despite repeated promises and numerous product "preannouncements," Bluetooth technology has yet to appear in any product on the market. Think Christmas. Next year.

Boom time for online books?

Author Stephen King's recent foray into e-book publishing has kicked off a new round of activity among book publishers and software developers looking to gain a foothold in the nascent market.

ANALYST WATCH: Tech revival comes as no surprise

Not long ago, a column appeared in this spot recommending investors buy proven technology stocks while they were trading at or near 52-week lows, despite their lofty valuations. Just three short months later, it's time to look at the scoreboard.

Scramble over Mac OS 9 conflicts

On the eve of Mac OS 9's debut, several third-party developers are still finding compatibility problems between the new operating system and their products.

iMac buyers special

To date, the Apple iMac has been one of the most successful new consumer computers to hit the market in a long time.

Coming clean: Who pays for PC recycling?

First, there was the cardboard box in the kitchenette for old cans and bottles. Then, the plastic bin under everyone's desk for old print jobs and newspapers. Will the next trend in office recycling be a Dumpster for old computers?

E-merchants embracing rennaissance mainframe

Mainframes and servers with mainframe features are enjoying a renaissance, as e-commerce firms are attracted by the promise of good scalability coupled with high reliability.

A cure for health care

Take some new tech and IM me in the morning. New software heals doctors' handwriting, among other things.

Avoid getting ripped-off in e-commerce and online auctions

Internet fraud is on the rise, and along with the explosive growth of online commerce the opportunities for abuse have skyrocketed. Combine the ease of completing transactions and the cloak of anonymity the Net offers with the general level of naivete of the new online consumer, and high-tech bandits are in the middle of a virtual gold rush.

Y2K-proofing your databases

Tech Analysis: Leap day poses problem at turn of century, PC Week Labs finds

ANALYSIS: 10 reasons why investors should buy tech stocks now

Instead of whimpering and whinging about the recent correction in the stock market, investors need to show some backbone, quit feeling sorry for themselves and get back in the game.

Will 'Dot Coms' Face Revenge Of Dinosaurs?

To hear them tell it, the "dot com" companies of the world hold all the cards against big business. They're nimble and quick-footed, have the youngest and brightest talent, aren't bogged down by corporate bureaucracy and truly understand the Internet. Why don't the corporate dinosaurs just roll over and die? Those statements may have held up a year ago, and may still ring true in some sectors today, but by and large the Fortune 500 are beginning to roar back against their "dot com" competitors. In fact, a reverse school of thought is beginning to emerge that in the long run, the corporate giants will have the staying power and financial resources to crush the upstarts. Get ready for the revenge of the dinosaurs.

Patents Hook Start-Ups

Three years ago, Steven Golden, chairman and chief executive of Cool Savings, came up with a hot new idea for how to distribute coupons to consumers over the Web. The business by all accounts turned out to be a smashing success. Golden said Cool Savings became responsible for close to 40 percent of all coupons distributed via the World Wide Web.

Did Windows 2000 miss the revolution?

While Windows 2000 gestated for the past five years, the world of operating systems changed. The notion of one OS that can fit all devices may be as antiquated as the idea that mainframe computers can handle all computing tasks.

Managing Desktop Printers

Many corporations have printers that are directly connected to personal computers. A desktop printer is any printer that is locally defined for individual use. This may be may be parallel-attached, serial-attached, USB-attached, or a network printer, although the non-network printers...

Partner Doubles Year-Over-Year Revenue Through Focus on CRM Solutions

Inetium, a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner, provides consulting services for a variety of customers, and does so with a particular focus on Customer Relationship Management (CRM) solutions based on Microsoft Dynamics CRM. The company has found that pursuing CRM-related projects...

Consulting Firm Thrives With HP Officejet Pro 8500 Premier All-in-One

For several years, Bo Vallin printed his company's marketing material and office communications on a color laser printer. The company wanted to streamline operations and save space with cost-effective multifunction device delivering professional-quality output. The company deployed HP Officejet Pro...

Univar Consolidates Print Fleet With HP

With 17 sites in France, Univar is the market leader for chemical product distribution. Univar wanted to provide 450 employees with a highly accessible print service as well as increase document quality and reduce printing costs. Univar replaced the individual...

What Is Printer Lifecycle Management?

Most solutions look at a snapshot in time to track, optimize & identify cost savings. To do this, Guesstimate and approximations for costs are used. To fully determine printing costs, as a minimum, one needs to understand the user printing...

BERTL iTchat: Samsung UK's Ambitious Plans for B2B Domination

As a major player in the semiconductor, flat panel TV and mobile phone markets, Samsung has become one of the fastest growing global brands over the past five years. But now Samsung is turning its attention to its new growth...

Schools in Buckinghamshire Gain 62 Per Cent Lower Cost of Ownership With Dell Colour Printers

Buckinghamshire schools face the same IT challenges as other schools in the United Kingdom (UK), namely, delivering cutting-edge technology while faced with scarce financial resources. They needed IT solutions that support Buckinghamshire County Council's commitment to sustainability. After assessing comparable...

D-Link Case Study: St. Mary's Parish School

St. Mary's Parish School knew it needed a network that was both fast and reliable for sharing Internet, e-mail, files, printers, and other school resources. After several meetings with staff members and the school advisory board, St. Mary's called upon...

Texas-Sized Solution in a PC Package

When Austin Commissioners Court Judge Carolyn Bilski came into office in 1995, she quickly realized that the Texas County's technology was seriously outdated. They wanted to improve staff productivity and inter-departmental information sharing cost efficiently. They consulted with XperNet and...

Supporting Printers Under Linux

Unpredictable market conditions along with cost and time pressures make the computer peripherals industry highly competitive. Even so, for printers supported by Linux. Printing involving Linux requires a number of components. These in the combined form shape up a framework...

School Saves ?10,000 and Improves Service to Students and Teachers With Virtual Infrastructure

With critical programmes linked to IT, Ousedale School needed an IT infrastructure that would guarantee access during school hours. Dell deployed a simplified, virtualized environment based on Dell PowerEdge servers running Microsoft Virtual Server 2005 R2 with a Dell -...

Latin America's Printer Online Outperforms the Competition With WebEx

Founded in 1998, Printer Online is a leading provider of full-service printing solutions in Colombia. With five employees servicing customers across Colombia, Printer Online required an efficient way to address the needs of a geographically widespread market. To better serve...