Tuesday 13 January 2009

Brother MFC-250C All in One Inkjet Printer

The MFC-250C multifunction printer offers high quality fast colour printing, copying, scanning and faxing in one compact unit. With its easy to use functions plus a PictBridge and Direct USB port for printing photographs, you'll find this will fit perfectly into your home lifestyle.

Features

* Fast fax speed, 40 speed dials with 170 page memory for peace of mind
* Pictbridge & USB host connection
* Print fine detail with 6000 x 1200dpi resolution and 1.5pl droplet size

Monday 12 January 2009

Canon PIXMA iP4600 Inkjet Printer

Experience exceptionally high-quality prints with fine detail thanks to a separate dye-based black ink for photos, 1pl ink droplets and a resolution of 9600x2400dpi*. A premium print engine makes it possible to create a photolab-quality print in approximately 20 seconds*. Quality and efficiency are maintained through the use of 5 Single Inks – simply replace individual ink tanks when they run out.

The ChromaLife100+ system** is a combination of the PIXMA iP4600, original inks and selected Canon genuine photo papers. Working together, these three unique components deliver beautiful, long-lasting photo prints.

A range of practical functions makes creating photos and documents even more exciting and productive. With Canon’s Easy-PhotoPrint EX it’s easy to print calendars, albums and photos. Auto Photo Fix automatically corrects photos, including red-eye correction; auto duplex makes double-side printing straightforward – saving on paper and producing professional-looking documents. Two paper trays enable users to have plain and photo paper loaded at once.

Print text documents in mono or colour; a pigment black ink delivers crisp, sharp text. Single or double-sided printing is possible with the auto duplex feature – a practical and efficient function.

Managing your data storage is easy as you can personalise your DVDs and CDs for business, friends and family. Simply print direct onto the surface of the printable DVD or CD. CD-LabelPrint software lets you create layouts by adding your own text and images.

There is no need for a PC to be involved in your print process. With PictBridge technology you have a quick and convenient way to print images from compatible digital cameras, camcorders or mobile phones.

Features

* Photo prints with 1pl, 9600x2400dpi resolution*
* 10x15cm photolab-quality print in approximately 20 seconds*
* 5 Single Inks
* ChromaLife100+ system**
* Two paper trays
* Print on DVD/CD
* Easy-PhotoPrint EX software
* Print direct from a digital camera

Windows and Mac OS X compatible*

* See specifications
** See www.canon-europe.com/chromalife100

Friday 9 January 2009

Brother HL-2140 Laser Printer

The HL-2140 is an ideal low-cost solution to your mono laser printing requirements, providing high speed, professional quality prints from a stylish, compact machine.

The HL-2140 has been created using a sleek and ergonomic compact design rather than the traditional box shape of many printers. A self-contained

250 sheet universal paper tray reduces the virtual footprint of this machine, making this compact mono laser printer ideal for home/small office usage.

Brother understands that when you are busy printing at home or in your office, you need a quick printer at your side. That’s why the HL-2140 has best in class speeds and can print 22 pages per minute.

Brother’s HL-2140 also features a straight paper path feed that means you can easily print envelopes, labels and cards as well. A one year on-site warranty is included as standard.

  • Up to 22ppm monochrome printing speed
  • First print in under 10 seconds
  • Up to 2400 x 600dpi print resolution
  • Full speed USB 2 connection
  • Up to 250 sheet paper capacity
  • Up to 100 sheet output tray
  • GDI emulation
  • 8MB memory
  • One year on-site warranty (upon registration)

Thursday 8 January 2009

HP Colour LaserJet CP1215 Printer

HP Colour LaserJet 1215 is a high-quality colour printer, easy to use, fast and more affordable than ever. This compact desktop printer creates impressive documents with realistic photo quality.

* Maximum Print Resolution - 600 x 600 dpi
* Maximum Printing Speed in Black - 12ppm
* Maximum Printing Speed in Colour - 8ppm
* Number of Toner Cartridges - 4
* Duty Cycle - 25,000 pages
* Yield per Standard Cartridges - 2,200
* Connectivity - USB
* Paper Handling - 150-sheet paper tray
* Memory - 16Mb
* Printout - Duplex

Compatible Cartridge - Black CB540A
Compatible Cartridge - Colour CB541A/CB542A/CB543A
Height 367 mm
Width 598 mm
Depth 498 mm
Software included YES

Destroying hard drive only way

The only way to stop fraudsters stealing information from old computer hard drives is by destroying them completely, a study has found.

Computing magazine Which? recovered 22,000 "deleted" files from eight computers purchased on eBay.

Criminals source hardware from such internet auction sites or even in rubbish tips, to find valuable details.

Freely available software can be used to recover files that users think they have permanently deleted.

The only solution, according to Which?, is complete destruction - and it recommends using a hammer.

A number of recent cases have shown the dangers in disposing of second-hand equipment, from which details as well as other personal files can be retrieved.

Source: BBC

All time high for videogame sales

Sales of videogames in the UK hit an all time high of 82.8m in 2008, figures from the industry trade body show.

The Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association (ELSPA) said that consumers spent £4.03bn on video game hardware and software.

Total video game sales were in excess of £1.9bn, 23% more than the previous year and more than double the total earnings over the past five years.

Console sales accounted for another £1.422 billion.

Figures from ELSPA suggest that video games for the Nintendo Wii made up almost a quarter of all software sales, with more than 20m games sold. This was an increase of 112% on the previous year.

Software for the firm's handheld game console - the Nintendo DS - also proved popular, with more than 19.1m copies sold.

Games for Microsoft's Xbox 360 also did well, with a 51% rise in sales.

And there was some good news for Sony.

Sales of software for its PlayStation 3 console role by 145%, selling 10.4 million units - more than double the 4.2m games sold in 2007.

But with economic worries, and a shortage of blockbuster titles, some experts think 2009 may not be so rosy.

Source: BBC

Wednesday 7 January 2009

Western Digital 250GB Passport Essential 2.5" Hard Drive

Transport your data in style with the sleek, compact Western Digital My Passport Essential Portable Hard Drive. This slim hard drive fits comfortably in your bag, hand or pocket when you're on the move. In a vibrant red, this hard drive was designed for style as well as practicality!

Powered via the USB port on your PC, the Western Digital My Passport Essential Portable Hard Drive has no more power cables to get tangled. Perfect for that seamless finish to your home study. With a massive 250GB of data storage capacity, you have the ability to store and transport thousands of songs, photos and hours of video.

Synchronised to your computer, the Western Digital My Passport Essential Portable Hard Drive automatically updates any changes you make to your data, saving you time. This neat hard drive is protected with 128-bit encryption (for Windows) so you can be sure that your files are secure.

* Compact & light -easily fits in a pocket
* Includes sync and encryption software
* Data Storage of up to 200,000 photos or 62,500 MP3s
* Powered directly via USB
* Hard Drive Capacity 250GB

SanDisk Cruzer Micro Skin 4GB USB Flash Drive Memory Stick

Store documents, pictures, music and video quickly and securely with the Sandisk Cruzer Micro Skin USB Key - 4GB. Clear skin covered, the Sandisk Cruzer Micro Skin USB Key - 4GB allows for the rapid transfer of your files, in pocket-size, discreet style.

* 4GB Data Storage Capacity
* Data storage for over 3000 photos,
* Data storage for up to 1000 MP3s or 3 movies
* Take your memories everywhere you go
* Dimensions: - 7.9mmx18.95mmx52.2mm (HxWxL)

* Brilliant green LED
* Stylish metal casing with clear skin∩
* Hi-Speed USB 2.0 certified
* Compatible with Windows 2000, XP and
* Mac OS 9.1.x+, OS X v10.1.2+

Maxtor 3.5" Basics 500 GB Hard Drive

Maxtor Basics drives allow you to add enormous personal data storage capacity instantly: just plug it in and your Basics drive will appear automatically on your desktop.

* 500GB hard drive capacity
* Back up all your important files
* Ideal for the home or office
* USB 1.0 & 2.0 Interface
* Data Storage of over 416000 photos or

* Data Storage of 770 videos or 125000 MP3s
* Shock-protection
* Easy installation
* Windows OS (2000/XP/VISTA) & MAC OS
* Hard Drive Capacity 500GB
* Interface usb 1.0 & 2.0

Maxtor Basics 250 GB External Hard Drive

If you’re running out of data storage or need to archive some important digital documents, photos or music then this small Maxtor for data storage is the perfect solution. Store over 62,000 MP3s, 208,000 Photos or 350 Movies.

* 250GB Data Storage Solution
* Ideal for those on the move
* Stylish black design
* Simple plug-&-play
* Usb 2.0/1.1 Interface

* Shock Protection
* Data Storage 62500 MP3s
* Data Storage 208300 Photos
* Data Storage 355 Movies

Hard Drive Capacity 250GB

LG Internal Blu-ray DVD Re-Writer

Whether you want to store your media files on Blu-ray discs, or simply sit back and enjoy your favourite Blu-ray films, the Super Multi Blue has it covered.

The GGW-H20L can handle both single-layer and dual layer Blu-ray discs (50GB the equivalent of 64 CDs) in either recordable or re-writable formats. With the ability to read and write Blu-ray at 6x, and 4MB Buffer memory, this internal drive enables you storage of large amounts of data at a record-breaking speed.

The drive also supports the new SecurDisc technology, co-developed with Nero. This enables you to protect your discs with password encryption, digital signature and a checksum integrity checker, software providing peace of mind that your discs and your data are totally secure at the user and storage level.

* Super Multi Blue
* Watch your favourite Blu-ray DVD's
* HD DVD-ROM drive
* Blu-Ray Disc Re-Writer
* 4x Blu-ray writing speed

* 6x Blu-ray reading speed
* Windows XP/Vista compatible
* Upgrade your PC's DVD-ROM drive
* HD read technology
* Backward compatibility

Lexmark Z2490 Wireless Inkjet Printer

Enjoy incredibly convenient, high-quality printing with this Lexmark Z2490 Wireless Inkjet Printer. The Z-2490 Wireless Inkjet Printer has both USB 2.0 and Wireless 802.11g/b connectivity, giving you great versatility and the option to print without extra cables or clutter. The Z2490 Wireless Inkjet Printer functions quickly and accurately to produce colour prints with a maximum of 4800 x 1200 dpi and at speeds of up to 25 pages per minute. It can accommodate paper up to A4 in size and has a tray for 100 sheets of paper, to help improve your productivity.

Product Features

* Maximum Print Resolution - 4800 x 1200 dpi
* Normal Print Speed - Up to 25ppm
* Borderless Printing - Up to A4
* Number of Cartridges - 2 Individual Inks
* Connectivity - USB 2.0,802.11g/b Wireless

* Time to Print 10x15cm Photo - Not Specified
* Direct Printing - N/A
* Paper Handling - 100 sheet per tray
* Wireless printing as standard
* Mac & Vista Compatible

Maximum resolution horizontal 4800 dpi
Maximum resolution vertical 1200 dpi
Pages per minute in black 25 pages per minute ppm
Pages per minute in colour 18 pages per minute ppm
Maximum Print Size A4
Edge to Edge Printing YES
Compatible Cartridge - Black Lexmark No 4
Colour Printing YES
Compatible Cartridge - Colour Lexmark No 5
Compatible Cartridge - Colour1 Lexmark No 31 Photo
Paper tray capacity 100 pages
Connectivity USB Compatible with USB 2.0 Specification
Software included YES
Product height 125 mm
Product depth 228 mm
Product width 458 mm

HP Photosmart C7280 Printer All In One

The HP Photosmart C7280 Wireless Printer, Copier, Scanner & Fax is an efficient All-in-One printer with great improved features that gives you the experience of effortless printing. It offers lab-quality photos, laser-quality documents, with copy, scan and fax functionality. The HP C7280 comes with an automatic document feeder, automated photos tray, two-side print capability, built-in wireless and Ethernet connectivity. With one touch buttons, a 2.4 inch (6.1 cm)LCD screen and blazing print speeds, the HP Photosmart C7280 All-in-One makes it easy and fast to produce effortless photos and documents in the home or office.

Product Features:

* Maximum print resolution - 4800 x 1200 dpi
* Normal print speed - 9ppm b&w & 8ppm colour
* Standalone Copier function - Yes
* Number of cartridges - 4-6 individual inks
* Connectivity - USB, Ethernet, Wireless

* Borderless Printing - Up to 215 x 610mm
* Direct Printing - Cardreaders & Pictbridge
* Display - 6.1cm LCD preview screen
* Fax features - 90-page memory & auto-redial
* Other print features - Auto duplex printing

Format Print, Copy, Scan + Fax
Pages per minute in black Up to 34 ppm
Pages per minute in colour Up to 33 ppm
Digital Camera Card Readers CompactFlash, xD, SD/MMC, SDHC
Standalone Fax YES
Paper tray capacity 100
Standalone Copier YES
Number of Copies From Original 90
Copier Enlargement/reduction 400
Automatic Document feeder YES
Scanner Dots per Inch Vertical 4800 dpi
Scanner Colour Resolution 4800 bit
Fax Page Memory 90
Connectivity USB 2.0, Wireless + Wired Ethernet
Software included YES
Compatible Cartridge - Black HP 363
Compatible Cartridge - Colour HP 363 C,M,Y, LC, LM
Height 248 mm
Width 450 mm
Depth 444 mm

HP Photosmart D5460 Inkjet Printer

The Photosmart Photosmart D-5460 Photo Inkjet Printer from Hewlett Packard will give you all the printing power you need to get the highest quality results, in the home or the office.

A particular standout feature of the D5460 is that it is able to print on a wide variety of media including CD and DVD optical discs.

The HP Photosmart D-5460 Photo Inkjet Printer can print draft-quality A4 sheets can be printed at over 30 ppm in both colour and black and white, while a best-quality 10 x 15 cm colour photo print is turned out in around 60 seconds.

The D5460 is equipped with a clear 3.8 cm colour display and memory card reader to provide the option of printing photos so you can completely cut out the need of using a computer all together.

The HP Photosmart D-5460 Photo Inkjet Printer will deliver all your printing needs, offering you a well-built, feature-laden printer from a strong, dependable brand.

* Maximum Print Resolution - 9600 x 2400 dpi
* 10 x 15cm Photo Print Time - 18 seconds
* Maximum Borderless Print Size - 21x28cm
* Number of Cartridges - 5 Individual
* Direct Printing - Yes

* Connectivity - USB 2.0 & nbsp
* Display - 3.8cm(1.5 inch) LCD
* Alternative media - Direct CD/DVD Printing
* Document Print Speed - 33ppm/31ppm colour
* Duplex Printing - No

Maximum resolution horizontal 9600 dpi
Maximum resolution vertical 2400 dpi
Pages per minute in colour 31 ppm
Built in LCD Screen YES
Digital Camera Card Readers PictBridge & Media Card Slots
Maximum Print Size A4
Edge to Edge Printing YES
Compatible Cartridge - Black HP546 Black Ink Cartridge
Compatible Cartridge - Colour HP 564 Cyan
Compatible Cartridge - Colour1 HP 564 Magenta
Compatible Cartridge - Colour2 HP 564 Yellow
Compatible Cartridge - Colour3 HP 564 Photo Black
Automatic Paper Type Sensor YES
Paper tray capacity 125
Connectivity USB 2.0
Software included YES
Product height 183.2 mm
Product depth 575.3 mm
Product width 457.9 mm

Epson Stylus Office BX300F All In One

Fast, affordable office all-in-one with speed-dial fax and auto document feeder. It’s easy to use, flexible and adds professionalism to all your business documents.

* Maximum Print Resolution - 5760 x 1440 dpi
* Normal Print Speed - N/A
* Maximum Print Speed - 30ppm b&w/14ppm color
* Number of Cartridges - 4 Ink Cartridges
* Automatic Document Feeder - Yes - 30Pages

* Connectivity - USB 2.0
* Duplex Printing - No
* Duty Cycle - N/A
* 180 Fax Page Memory
* 99 Number of Copies From Original

Format Print, Copy, Scan + Fax
Pages per minute in black 30 ppm
Pages per minute in colour 14 ppm
Digital Camera Card Readers NO
Standalone Fax YES
Paper tray capacity 120 sheets
Standalone Copier YES
Number of Copies From Original 99
Automatic Document feeder YES
Scanner Dots per Inch Vertical 2400 dpi
Fax Page Memory 180
Connectivity USB 2.0
Software included YES
Compatible Cartridge - Black C13T071140
Compatible Cartridge - Colour C13T071540 multipack
Height 236 mm
Width 435 mm
Depth 410 mm

HP F4272 Printer Scanner Copier

Get quick and easy printing, scanning and copying with the versatile HP DeskJet F4272 All-in-One Printer, Scanner & Copier. Print and copy everyday paperwork, web pages and more at up to 26 ppm black, 20 ppm colour – get great photos too with HP Vivera inks. Also, Energy Star qualified.

The HP Deskjet F4272 All-in-One Printer, Scanner, Copier, is designed for users looking for a fast, easy-to-use and economical all-in-one that delivers great results at home or in the office, fast performance and a range of user-friendly tools.

You can get consistent, dependable printing, scanning and copying with this durable HP Deskjet F4272 All-in-One. Get fast, printing, scanning and copying for home projects, office work, photos and more. You can make quick copies without switching on your PC and print at up to 26 ppm black, 20 ppm colour. Print high-quality borderless photos in all popular sizes – 10 x 15 cm, 13 x 18 cm, panorama (10 x 30 cm), A4 and more – and get enhanced detail with HP dual drop weight technology. Scan paperwork, photos, books and more using the built-in scanner. Get laser-quality text and vivid colour graphics using HP Vivera inks.

The HP DeskJet F4272 Printer, Copier & Scanner is easy to set-up with simple controls and helpful software – you can get started in no time. Enjoy the easy set-up and worry-free operation with HP’s intuitive software. Make use of a range of helpful tools including one-touch print cancel button, low-ink indicator and an ink backup mode that lets you keep on printing when one cartridge runs out. Get great results from web pages with HP Smart Web Printing and print your photos using HP Photosmart Essential software. Compact design and neat fold-up tray means this versatile device fits almost anywhere.

Product Features

* Maximum Print Resolution - 1200 x 4800
* Maximum Print Resolution - 1200 x 4800 dpi
* Normal Print Speed - 20ppm b&w/14ppm colour
* Standalone Copying - Yes
* Mumber of Cartridges - 2 ink cartridges
* Connectivity - USB 2.0

* Borderless Printing - Up to A4
* Direct Printing - N/A
* Monitor - None
* Copier Features - 22cpm b&w/16cpm colour
* Copier Reduction/Enlargement - 50-200%

Format Print, Copy, Scan
Pages per minute in black 20ppm ppm
Pages per minute in colour 14ppm ppm
Standalone Copier YES
Number of Copies From Original 99
Scanner Dots per Inch Vertical 1200 dpi
Scanner Colour Resolution 4800 bit
Connectivity USB 2.0
Software included YES
Compatible Cartridge - Black HP no 300 Black
Compatible Cartridge - Colour HP No 300 Colour
Height 162 mm
Width 438 mm
Depth 291 mm

HP Photosmart C4485 Print Copy Scan

The HP Photosmart C4485 All-in-One Printer, Scanner, Copier is designed for people who want to be able to print everything from documents and web pages to photos – with the ability to scan and copy from the same compact device.

Print, scan and copy paperwork, photos and more with one versatile machine.
Enjoy the convenience of being able to scan and copy too with this compact all-in-one. Choosing versatility doesn’t mean compromising on quality either. Print laser-quality documents and lab-quality photos using HP Vivera inks – you can even choose optional 6-ink colour for professional-quality photos. Get fast copies too with speeds of up to 30 ppm black, 23 ppm colour. Use the scanner to digitise photos or documents for sharing or safe-keeping.

Get great value with this affordable all-in-one and a choice of ink cartridges.
Enjoy the best of both worlds with an all-in-one that’s not only affordably priced but also highly efficient to use. For a start, HP ink cartridges are designed for efficient usage so they save you ink and money. You can also choose the replacement cartridges that best suit your needs, with high-capacity cartridges giving you 3x more prints and the convenience of fewer cartridge changes. And with an Energy Star-qualified product, you’ll keep control of your running costs too.

See how much you can do with easy-to-use HP technologies.
Everything about this HP all-in-one is designed to help you get the job done, more easily. If you print photos without switching on your PC just pop in your memory card and choose which ones to print via the 3.8 cm display. If you need to print a lot of web pages, the HP Smart Web Printing just the tool for you that adjusts web pages so they fit on the paper. There’s an automatic paper sensor that optimises your settings, and there’s even software that will help you edit, print and share your photos.

Hallmark Card Studio Deluxe 2009

For nearly 100 years Hallmark has been designing greeting cards for life’s special moments. Hallmark Card Studio 2009 Deluxe extends this tradition, making it easy to create one-of-a kind- Hallmark cards as unique as the people you care for.

In three easy steps you can add personal photos, customize sentiments and print your special card. It’s the fast, easy and fun way to create distinctive Hallmark cards for any occasion - birthdays to anniversaries, Christmas to Valentine’s Day!

But cards are just the beginning. Commemorate events and bridge the miles between family and friends with custom calendars, photo frames, postcards, stationery, invitations, scrapbooks, certificates and more. With Card Studio Deluxe 2009, new projects, such as Photo Calendars, add to the many ways Hallmark helps you be creative and stay in touch.

Even send personalized Hallmark E-Cards using a selection from our pre-recorded sounds for any occasion. Or add your own recorded sounds and WAV files for an extra personal touch.

It’s amazing what you and Hallmark can do together!

* Create unique greeting cards
* Easy 3-step process
* Select from thousands of cards
* Exclusive additional UK designs

* Create invitations, stickers and more
* Extensive library of fonts
* Extensive choice of graphics and designs
* Additional digital photo editing

Microsoft Office For Mac 2008 Home & Student Edition

Homework and Home Work will be easier than ever with Microsoft® Office 2008 for Mac Home and Student Edition. Get better results faster and create high-quality documents you can be proud of, with less frustration and more enjoyment.

Office 2008 for Mac Home and Student Edition is incredibly smart but simple to use. It works on both Intel- and PowerPC-based Macs.

It has an incredibly intuitive interface, so greatly reduces the time and frustration that learning new software sometimes makes. When you create documents, Office 2008 Home and Student uses visual galleries that present the right tools when you need them – say goodbye to futile searching and trial and error.

Creating and sharing stunning looking documents is easy, thanks to the hundreds of new templates and Smart Art™ graphics, Publishing Layout View, and professional quality clip art and photos. Share your documents with colleagues, friends and family across platforms, thanks to Open XML file formats, and features such as the Office Art Graphics engine

Office 2008 doesn’t mean unnecessary costing – it’s priced for home users and you only pay for the features you use – so if you don’t need Microsoft Exchange Server Support or workflow management, you don’t pay. Office 2008 for Mac Home and Student Edition comes with three licenses of non-Exchange-enabled Office 2008, licensed for non-commercial computers.

* Achieve More For Less
* Includes Mac Versions of:
* Microsoft Word
* Microsoft Excel

* Microsoft Powerpoint
* Microsoft Entourage
* Runs Natively on Intel & Power PC Macs

McAfee Total Protection 2009 3 user version

For pain free, no worries security for your computer, McAfee Total Protection 2009 offers effective protection for those who frequently use online facilities such as shopping, banking, downloading entertainment and email.

Featuring the award winning McAfee SiteAdvisor Plus web security tool, McAfee Total Protection warns and blocks any suspect websites and protects up to 3 computers from viruses, spyware, hackers, identity thieves, and online scammers. Parental controls are also included.

With continuous automatic updates to keep your security current, you can be assured Total Protection 2009 is working to combat the constantly evolving threats from the internet.

* 3 USER LICENCE
* Includes new McAfee AntiTheft
* Virus, spyware and malware protection
* SiteAdvisor rates website for safety
* QuickClean removes junk from your PC

* View your PC's security at a glance
* Block annoying pop ups
* Firewall protection to keep threats out
* Automatic updates to keep your security
* up to date from the latest threats

Who Do You Think You Are? Deluxe Version 3

FAMILY TREE SOFTWARE – FOREWORD BY NICK BARRATT, Resident Genealogist on the BBC’s Who Do You Think You Are?

"PCs and the Internet have made the task of researching your family history much easier than ever before. With vast amounts of data now archived on the internet, the odds of success for those seeking information on their heritage has dramatically increased.

Using this Family Tree Software, you can organise and store all the data you find on your family and ancestors and then create trees, charts, albums and reports to share with family and friends. Tracing your roots will take some investigative work and lots of time, but the end result will be a truly rewarding and emotional journey into your past!"

ABOUT THE TV SERIES

Who Do You Think You Are? took the world’s favourite pastime, genealogy and turned it into a TV phenomenon. The show follows the sometimes emotional stories of well-known personalities as they search for their ancestors. From tales of fortunes lost, to families found, their stories take us around the world and are full of memorable moments.

DISCOVER YOUR FAMILY HISTORY WITH WDYTYA? FAMILY TREE MAKER!

Family history connects you with the past – and brings you closer to your family. This program will make it easy for you to explore and preserve your family heritage, integrating seamlessly with Ancestry.co.uk™, the UK’s largest collection of family history records.

WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?™ FAMILY TREE MAKER™ lets you easily:
* Create a family tree starting with names, dates and events
* Attach photos, documents and audio files to your tree
* Search for information on the web and merge it directly into your family tree
* Design and print charts to share with your family
* View timelines that show your ancestors’ lives in historical context
* Use dynamic maps to explore the places your ancestors once lived

o Organise your family tree - Create charts
o Top Ten genealogy Hints - Create the tree
o Help & Hints - Encylopedia of Genealogy

ROXIO Easy DVD Copy & Convert 4

For more than a decade Roxio has set the quality standard for disc burning and ease of use. Burn confidently with Easy DVD Copy 4, using advanced burning features and flexible tools. Easy DVD Copy 4 is compatible with virtually all DVD drives.

Key Features in Easy DVD Copy 4:

* Copy 9GB DVDs to 4.7GB discs, with selectable movies, extras and languages for optimal quality
* New! Additional support for output profiles means increased portability for your digital media: copy DVDs to iPod, PSP, mobile devices, and Windows® Media or DivX players
* New! Additional video formats supported for maximum flexibility
* New! Convert DVDs and videos to iPhone
* New! Drag and drop videos to portable devices on your Vista desktop
* New! Convert video to preferred formats right on your Vista desktop
* Improved! Copying DVDs is one-click easy


Minimum System Requirements:
* Windows Vista™ with1.6 GHz Intel processor, 512 MB RAM or Windows® XP with 500 MHz processor or faster; 128 MB RAM
* 1 GB of free hard disk space for typical installation of all components
* Up to 9GB hard disk space for copying DVD-Video discs
* 1024x768, 16-bit colour graphics card
* 16-bit Windows compatible sound card and speakers
* DirectX 9 or higher compatible sound card and graphics card
* Windows Media Player 10
* Microsoft Internet Explorer 6
* CD or DVD drive to install the software

o Advanced DVD copy made simple
o Convert DVDs to Portable devices
o Copy movies to DVDs
o Copy & convert right on your PC
o Fast & high quality

Kaspersky Internet Security 09 & Roxio Creator 09

New Roxio Creator 2009 is everything you need to easily create and share the stories of your life. It makes easy to work with discs, photos, video, and music. Experienced users will enjoy advanced authoring and new AVCHD video editing; photo tools; and new audiobook transfers to portable devices.

Kaspersky Internet Security 2009 provides next generation multi-award-winning technology for complete protection from identity theft, spyware, hijacking, botnets, hacker attacks, viruses, worms, Trojans, keyloggers, rootkits, phishing, unwanted pop-up ads and spam. Offering hourly updates, consistently high detection rates and free telephone technical support, the product is designed for enhanced protection, performance and reliability, including a two-way firewall, parental control features - and a virtual keyboard for safer online banking.

Creator 2009 System Requirements
  • Microsoft® Windows Vista™ Home Basic, Windows® XP SP2 (32- or 64- bit), 1 GHz processor and 512 MB RAM
  • 1024x768 DirectX 9 compatible graphics card with at least 16-bit colour setting, sound card, DVD-ROM drive
  • Hard drive with at least 3 GB free space for installation
  • Windows Media Player 10
  • Internet connection required for registration, product updates, and some features.
  • For video capture: OHCI compliant IEEE 1394 FireWire card (for use with DV camera) or analogue video capture device
  • Blu-ray authoring and playback requires an additional High-Def/Blu-ray Disc Plug-In which can be purchased at www.roxio.com
Kaspersky Internet Security System Requirments:
  • Microsoft Windows XP Home / Professional Edition, CPU 300MHZ, 256Mb RAM
  • Microsoft Windows Vista Home Basic and Premium / Business / Enterprise / Ultimate (x32 & x64), CPU 800MHZ, 512Mb RAM
  • 50 MB free space on the hard drive
  • CD-ROM & Internet connection (for product activation & updates)

  • Enjoy & protect your treasured memories
  • Capture, edit, copy & share photos ...
  • Also for video, music & data
  • Keep your PC safe and secure
  • Protection from spyware & viruses
  • 2-way firewall
  • Hourly updates
  • Parental control features
  • Enhanced performance & reliability
  • Virtual keyboard for online banking

Nero 9

Nero 9 utilities software gives you the freedom to create, copy, burn, edit, share, and upload online. Whatever you want – music, video, photos or data – enjoy and share anytime, anywhere.

The easy burn system provides rapid speed for auto backup and copy functions. Perfect for keeping an archive or just for added protection the Nero 9 utilities software allows you to backup files to CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs. As well as creating professional-looking DVD videos with integrated 3D menus.

You can convert music, photos, and DVDs to play on your iPod and other mobile devices and the Quick photo and video upload lets you add your videos to YouTube and MySpace. The Nero 9 utilities software also allows you to Watch, record, pause, and customise your live TV experience with playback in AVCHD and other HD formats.

So why not pick up the Nero 9 utilities software so you can copy, burn, share or upload your creative productions like a real DJ, photographer or film producer.

* Easily manage, edit & share your media
* Burn to DVD with great 3D menus
* Convert your music, video and photos
* Watch standard or High Definition TV
* One-click fast and easy burning
* AutoBackup function
* Recover data on damaged discs
* Special effects, transitions and music

Tuesday 6 January 2009

Darker side of the flash drive

To most people the USB stick is a humble, innocuous device that does nothing more than help them tote around their most important files.

But to the US Department of Defense (DoD), the USB stick has a dark side - one that criminally-minded hackers are only too eager to exploit.

In late November, the US DoD imposed a temporary ban on the use of flash drives and other removable, recordable media such as CDs, DVDs and floppy disks. The ban applied to users of both the classified and unclassified networks the US military operates.

The order was sent out to help the security staff at the DoD combat the spread of a Windows worm - a self-propagating program. In this case the malicious program was a variant of the SillyFDC worm known as Agent.btz.

This lurks unseen on USB drives and only springs to life when an infected flash drive is inserted into an uninfected PC.

Once installed, the worm does not sit dormant. Instead, it downloads code from elsewhere on the net and stays in touch with its creators.

To scupper the chance that criminals could be using its network resources, the DoD slapped a ban on the use of USB sticks.

But, said Tim Ellsmore, chief executive of security firm 3ami, those restrictions could make it harder for people to get their jobs done.
Worker using computer, Eyewire
Companies need to remind employees about safe net use

"A USB drive is an important business tool for a lot of people," he said. The fact that they were cheap, portable and spacious helped an increasingly mobile workforce cope, he said.

But, he added, flash drives did represent a management headache for many companies.

Mr Ellsmore said 3ami regularly helped organisations that have tens of thousands of users who use many hundreds of flash drives every day.

Rogue devices

Few companies had any idea what was being done with those drives or any other removable media, he said.

Research by Israeli security firm Insightix showed that organisations can have large numbers of "rogue" devices joining their networks every day.

The network auditing firm said that, on average, 20% of the devices connecting to a large organisation's network could be classed as "rogue".

"Not all of the unknown devices will be bad," said Mr Arkin, "but if someone did plug one of these devices in you may not be aware of it and that could be a problem."

Unless organisations know who is connecting to their network and what they are using, said Mr Arkin, managing what they are doing is impossible.

"Knowledge is the foundation of good security," said Mr Arkin.

Chris Boyd, head of forensics at Detica, said the roominess of USB drives made them dangerous devices to leave unwatched.

"The reality is that you can easily buy a very high capacity drive that will hold an awful lot of intellectual property or government secrets," he said.
Woman walking past sign. AFP/Getty
People will try to evade poorly thought-out security policies

But, he acknowledged, finding the right policy for USB use was tricky. Get it wrong, he warned, and users could resist.

"If a security protocol is a hindrance rather than a help then users will try to avoid it," he said.

Despite this, he said, organisations had to get to grips with managing their networks and what people were doing on them - if only to protect themselves from unwarranted leaks.

"On a well-managed network that's policed properly, it's very difficult for members of team A to access team B's data," he said.

At the least, he said, data on USB drives should be encrypted so that if it does go astray there is not much that can be done with it.

For 3ami's Tim Ellsmore, an active policy of watching what users do on a network is the only answer.

Users, he said, should be reminded of their responsibilities and the efforts companies were making to keep data secure.

"Until you reach the stage where you can see what people in the organisation are doing, you do not have a clue," he said.

"And if you do not have a clue then how do you go about stopping bad behaviour or promoting good?"

Source: BBC

Apple ends music copy protection

Apple Inc has agreed to start selling digital songs from its iTunes store without copy protection software.

At present, most music downloaded from Apple's iTunes store can only be played through an iTunes interface or iPod.

The new agreement with Sony BMG, Universal, and Warner Music will end digital rights management (DRM)software currently attached to iTunes music.

The changes were announced at the end of the keynote address, at the Macworld conference in San Francisco.

Apple's senior vice president of worldwide product marketing, Phil Shiller delivered the speech, traditionally given by Steve Jobs.

"Over the last six years songs have been $0.99 [79p]. Music companies want more flexibility. Starting today, 8 million songs will be DRM free and by the end of this quarter, all 10 million songs will be DRM free," he told the crowd.

Apple has also revised its pricing structure, offering a two-tier system with songs available for $0.69 and $1.29. Prices will vary slightly in the UK.

At present, the firm has a one-price-fits-all strategy - currently 79p per track - with no subscription fee.

The new model will have a varied pricing structure, with what the company calls "better quality iTunes Plus" costing more.

It remains to be seen whether music already purchased from iTunes would have its DRM stripped off.

The move could potentially spell the end for DRM limited music, which was never popular with users or the record industry.

Mark Mulligan, a director with market analysts Jupiter Research, said the end of DRM - in its current form - was inevitable.

"The only reason it has taken so long is that the record industry has been trying to level the playing field, by giving away DRM free to everyone else, but even that hasn't dented Apple's share," said Mr Mulligan.

"Ultimately, what we're going to end up with is a new form of DRM. The more you pay, the less DRM you get bolted onto your music. Premium music will be DRM free, the cheaper it gets, the more shackles are attached," he added.

In 2007 Apple's CEO, Steve Jobs, published an open letter called 'Thoughts on Music' in which he called on the three big record companies to ditch DRM.

Source: BBC

Consumer Electronics Show 2009

The recession has not put many people off attending this week's Consumer Electronics Show.

About 130,000 people are expected to travel to Las Vegas for the show.

The show is the highlight of the hi-tech calendar and is a showcase for top gadgets of 2009.

"It will be a bright spot compared to the uncertainty in the rest of the economy," said Gary Shapiro, head of the Consumer Electronics Association that stages CES.

More than 130,000 people are expected to travel to CES.

Mr Shapiro said he expected the 2009 show to be among the top two or three in terms of attendees and exhibitors.

In 2008 attendance was slightly higher at 140,000 but, said Mr Shapiro, the number of exhibitors at CES had held steady despite the wider economic woe.

"I think we will see positive feelings there," he said.

The 2009 show will see more than 2,700 companies showing off their wares across more than 1.7m square feet of exhibition space.

It is not clear how positive these statistics are because most firms paid well in advance for their stand space - most long before the global economic slowdown made itself felt.

In previous years Microsoft founder Bill Gates has opened the show but in 2009 Steve Ballmer, Microsoft chief executive, will take on the task, delivering the keynote which will kick off the show on 7 January.

With rumours of Microsoft about to announce significant layoffs the opening keynote could sound a sour note.

But, said Mr Shapiro, the technology industry had survived many previous downturns.

"They always seems like the worst when you are experiencing them," he said. "But as a tech industry we are doing very well and people want to buy things and want to invest."

He predicted that the technology industry would do well during the downturn as companies look to innovative products, be they in software or hardware, to cut costs and help their employees do more with less.

"Industry leaders come because they want to see how the technology will be changing their business, he said.

The show, said Mr Shapiro, reflected some of those larger themes with areas set aside for green products and those to do with sustainable development.

Other big themes for the show included a big focus on mobile video, location services via handsets as well as net access and broadcast technologies for cars.

Said Mr Shapiro: "The bottom line of it is internet on the go."

Alongside this will be exhibitors showing off technologies that unite many different technologies or that try to make familiar ones easier to use.

For instance, he said, CES will see firms showing off software and services that make it easier to get more out of a TV, camcorder or other handheld device.

"And," he said, "there are always bigger, brighter screens."

CES is well known as a showcase for new display technologies and the 2009 show is expected to see the appearance of many more Organic LED screens as well as many 3D TV and film technologies.

Source: BBC

Twitter targeted by hackers

Micro-blogging site Twitter has admitted that some of its most high profile bloggers have been targeted by hackers.

It announced that 33 accounts had been hacked, including those belonging to president elect Barack Obama and singer Britney Spears.

It follows a phishing scam on the site which encouraged users to click on a fake Twitter homepage.

The celebrity accounts are now secure, the firm said.

Monday madness

The celebrities, including US CNN broadcaster Rick Sanchez, awoke on Monday morning to find their Twitter accounts - which allows users to post short updates of less than 140 characters - with some bizarre and, in some cases pornographic messages.

The fictional updates included a message from Mr Sanchez saying he would not be in work because he was high on crack, a link to free petrol from Mr Obama and some very personal statistics from Ms Spears.

"The issue with these 33 accounts is different from the phishing scam aimed at Twitter users," the firm explained in its blog.

"We immediately locked down the accounts and investigated the issue. Rick, Barack, and others, are now back in control of their accounts," it wrote.

The security breach happened when hackers broke into tools used by the Twitter support team to help people edit the email address associated with their account.

"We'll put the tools back only when they're safe and secure," the blog promised.

That attack, described by Twitter as "Monday morning madness" comes off the back of what it called a "wacky weekend" of attacks.

The phishing scam, which affected thousands of users, invited people to click on a link to a fake Twitter login.

Individual attack

It then obtained account details which could be used to harvest more accounts.

There was no financial gain from the scam and seemingly no link to the celebrity hack.

Graham Cluley, senior consultant with security firm Sophos, believes the celebrity hack is the more worrying.

"It appears that Twitter's systems were potentially exposing everybody's accounts to the dangers of being taken over by hackers - it's just that they chose some high profile accounts to abuse with their defacements," he said.

"Twitter seems convinced that it was an individual rather than a gang of criminals so it may be that they have identified the person responsible," he added.

Source: BBC

Advent 4211c Netbook

The Advent 4211 Netbook is the perfect companion for people on the move. It allows you to stay online, browse files and stay in touch with family and friends. This light weight netbook houses the easy to use Windows® XP operating system, which will allow you to access a wide range of applications, services and hardware in a familiar and easy way. It also comes with Intel’s newest and smallest ever processor, the Intel Atom. The Advent 4211 Windows XP Intel Atom Netbook delivers the performance you need to surf the net. On top of this, you have a built in webcam with microphone for face to face chatting with family and work colleagues. Bluetooth connectivity offers an easy way to share music, images and information with other bluetooth users.

* Intel Atom N270Processor - Energy efficient
* (1.6GHz, 533 MHz, 512k Cache)
* Genuine Windows(R) XP Home
* Memory & storage - 1GB Memory & 120GB HDD
* Portable - 10.2"Widescreen Display & 1.12KG
* Extras - Bluetooth connectivity & webcam
* Wireless Enabled
* Built in speakers
* (1.6GHz, 533MHz FSB, 512MB cache)
* 3 USB connections

Samsung NC10 White Netbook

The stylish new Samsung NC10 Netbook is an ideal solution for portable computing.

Boasting an energy efficient Intel Atom N270Processor along with Windows(R) XP Home operating system, the Samsung NC10 offers a sizeable 1GB Memory along with a massive 160GB hard drive.

Sporting a 10.2” screen and weighing just over a kg, the white Samsung NC10 is small and portable but is packed full of features. These include a 1.3 Megapixel web cam, built in speakers, 3 USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity.

With a battery life of 7.5 hours, the wireless enabled Samsung NC10 Netbook offers you performance computing regardless of where you are!

* Intel Atom N270Processor - Energy efficient
* Operating System - Windows(R) XP Home
* Memory & storage - 1GB Memory & 160GB HDD
* Portable - 10.2" Widescreen Display & 1.3KG
* Extras - 7.5hrs battery life & Bluetooth
* Stylish white Design
* 1.3MP web cam
* Built in speakers
* 3 USB ports
* (1.6GHz, 533MHz FSB, 512MB cache)

Compaq CQ60-111EM Laptop

For high performance at a low price, opt for the Compaq CQ60-11EM in sleek black. Intel Celeron 575 Processor gives the CQ60 its brainpower, ensuring that it performs when you need it most. This practical, wireless enabled laptop enjoys the very best of Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium, enabling easy accessibility to all the latest software.

With the capacity to store plenty of music, pictures, films or any other precious data on its impressive 120GB Hard Drive, the Compaq CQ60 is a machine that is designed to facilitate the needs of the modern user. With 1GB of memory, you can enjoy fast download times and a speedy service at your fingertips.

An inexpensive price doesn’t compromise quality; the CQ60 comes with the manufacturer’s warranty for your peace of mind.

* Intel Celeron Processor 575
* (2GHz, 667Mhz, 1MB Cache mhz )
* Genuine Windows Vista (R) Home Basic
* 1 GB Memory
* 120 GB Hard Drive
* Lightscribe SuperMulti DVD ReWriter
* 15.6" Widescreen Display
* WEBCAM
* Wireless enabled
* Silver/Black

Tech News

HP G60-118EM Laptop

Great value for money and a very generous spec make the HP G60-118EM a winning combination for those customers not wanting to make any compromises.

The HP G60-118EM is a top brand laptop that comes with a powerful Intel Pentium Dual Core Processor T3200, Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium and a large 3GB Memory, to ensure faultless running of your programmes. A roomy 250GB Hard Drive offers ample space for your files, mulitmedia and downloads.

The 15.4” widescreen display is ideal for viewing your photos and watching movies, and with integrated speakers, you can ensure great audio too. The G60-118EM supplies 3 USB connections, so you can easily hook up to any external equipment, such as cameras, USB sticks and MP3 players.

Wireless enabled, this stylish black and silver laptop will keep you in touch wherever there is an available network or hotspot, and the G60-118EM comes with a built-in webcam for face-to-face communication.

* Intel Pentium Dual Core Processor T3200
* 3 GB memory
* 250 GB Hard drive
* Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium
* Built in webcam
* 15.4" widescreen display
* 3 USB connections
* Altec Lansing speakers
* Black and silver design
* Wireless enabled

Tech News

Advent 6441 Laptop

Advent’s feature-packed 6441Blu-ray Entertainment Laptop comes in the form of this sleek black 6411 model. Supported by an intelligent Intel Pentium Dual Core Processor T3200 and Microsoft Genuine Windows Vista ® Home Premium, the 6411 is a reliable and extremely resourceful computer.

Perhaps the most attractive feature is a simply huge 4GB memory for unproblematic system operations. In addition, the 6411’s 160GB Hard Drive provides ample storage space for you to hold those all-important multimedia files. Wireless capabilities allow you to hook up to a network or hotspot and peruse the Internet at your leisure.

Visually, the Advent 6441Blu-ray Entertainment Laptop is manufactured to a high gloss finish with imprint design. There is an ample 17” widescreen display and fantastic Blu-ray combo drive with DVD re-writer for you to view all your movies in comfort, as well as a webcam for easy communication with friends or loved ones.

* Intel Pentium Dual Core Processor T3200
* (1.73 GHz, 667 MHz, 1 MB Cache)
* Genuine Windows Vista (R) Home Premium
* 4 GB memory
* 160 GB hard drive
* Blu-ray combo drive with DVD ReWriter
* 17" Widescreen display
* webcam
* wireless enabled
* High gloss finish with imprint design

Tech News

Acer 2930 Laptop

If leaving your laptop at home when you travel is not an option, then the Acer 2930 is for you. It comes equipped with hardworking Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T5800 and top quality Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium for enhanced protection of your laptop. With increased manageability of your programmes thanks to a generous 2GB memory and 250GB Hard Drive capacity, it’s possible to upload as many photos or other media files as you like.

Carry the Acer 2930 with you on long train journeys or flights and watch movies on the ample 12.1” widescreen monitor. WiFi capabilities provide web-roaming at the click of a button wherever you happen to be. Make use of the in-built webcam to put a face to a conversation.

A UMA graphics card and DVD re-writer optical drive help to maximise your on-screen images, giving this portable Acer 2930 the best attributes of an entertainment laptop. Furthermore, the manufacturer’s warranty is included for your peace of mind.

* Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T5800
* (2 GHz, 800 MHz, 2 MB cache)
* Genuine Windows Vista (R)Home Premium
* 2 GB Memory
* 250 GB Hard Drive
* 12.1" Widescreen Display
* DVD ReWriter Optical Drives
* Wireless N connectivity
* Webcam
* Wireless Enabled

Tech News

Sony VGN-FW21L Laptop

For the definitive home entertainment laptop, choose the Sony VGN-FW21L. This all-round high performer is supported by the brains and brawn of Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T5800 technology and Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium. A huge 3GB memory and 250GB Hard Drive prevent data clogging.

Perfect for a hi-res gaming experience, the Sony VGN-FW21L offers Blue-ray High Definition DVD player and ATi Mobility Radeon HD3470 graphics card for images of the crispest, sharpest quality. Incorporated is a 16.4” X Black LCD screen display for clear viewing.

High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) digital connectivity and wireless capabilities ensure that your Sony VGN-FW21L laptop interacts productively with nearby devices.

* Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T5800
* (2 GHz, 800 Mhz, 2 MB Cache)
* Genuine Windows Vista (R) Home Premium
* 3GB Memory
* 250GB hard drive
* Blu-ray disc with DVD ReWriter
* ATi Mobility Radeon HD3470 Graphics card
* 16.4" X Black LCD Screen with web cam
* HDMI digital connectivity
* Wireless Enabled

Tech News

Acer 7730 Laptop

With a whole host of clever features and superior brainpower, the Acer 7730 Laptop relies on the best of Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T5800, while Genuine Windows Vista Home Basic guarantees the powerful running of all your programmes. A staggering 4GB memory and 160GB Hard Drive facilitates effortless multi-tasking for your convenience.

Watch high quality images, photos and movies on your 7730 Laptop's monitor with the winning combination of UMA graphics card, DVD Super Multi drive and 17” CrystalBrite widescreen display.

Designed with a black gloss finish, the Acer 7730 Laptop is an elegant machine that allows easy Internet access from your home or office network, or wireless hotspot, via WiFi.

* Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T5800
* (2 GHz, 800 MHz, 2MB Cache)
* Genuine Windows Vista (R) Home Basic
* 4 GB Memory Size
* 160 GB Hard Drive
* DVD Super Multi Drive Optical Drives
* 17" CrystalBrite Widescreen Display
* Wireless N connectivity, webcam
* Gloss black design
* UMA Graphics Card Type

Tech News

Advent PQD5002 with 19" TFT

For a pure quality PC that delivers you seamless performance on the most demanding of applications, choose the Advent PDQ5002, with a powerful AMD Phenom 9550 Processor.

Along with 4GB Memory and Genuine Windows Vista (R) Home Premium, you can enjoy fast and efficient multitasking on your day to day and more complicated multimedia. An impressive 500 GB Hard Disk provides you with ample storage space for a huge amount of photos, video, music and more.

Watch all your favourite films and create durable copies of your most important data, on the DVD RW Drive. Never lose a precious photo, sentimental song or work-related document again. The 5.1 channel High Definition Sound Card, which helps bring the action to life, enhances your gaming and film experience.

Connect up your printer, modem, digital camera and more, thanks to the 4 USB connections.

The Advent PDQ5002 would be a practical and entertaining addition to any home.

* AMD Phenom X4 9550 Processor
* (2.2GHz, 1800MHz FSB, 2MB Cache)
* Genuine Windows Vista (R) Home Premium
* 4GB Memory
* 500GB Hard Drive
* DVD Re-Writer
* 256MB Integrated graphics
* 4 USB Connections
* 20" Widescreen TFT Monitor

Tech News

Packard Bell iMedia X2326 with 19" TFT

For seamless performance on your every day office and multimedia applications, choose the Packard Bell iMedia B2326.

It uses a powerful AMD Phenom X3 8450 processor, 3GB memory and Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium to give you huge multimedia choice and office programme capabilities.

A Dual Layer DVD Rewriter is the perfect place to make hard, durable copies of all your most important files, as well as to watch your favourite films. This PC package also comes with a 19” thin film transistor LCD Display, for stunningly clear images. You can store all of your multimedia on the more-than ample 320GB SATA hard drive, for instant, easy but secure access.

Packard Bell’s iMedia B2326 also provides you with 6 USB ports for hooking up any external USB device, such as a digital camera or USB stick. The 1x IEEE 1394 FireWire® port is the perfect way to connect your camcorder. Have instant and easy access to all your devices for efficient and stress-free work.

The Packard Bell iMedia B2326 is a stylish looking package that will give any office at home or work, a professional image.

* AMD Phenom X3 8450 processor
* (2.1GHz, 1.5MB Cache)
* Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium
* 3GB DDR2 667MHz memory
* 320GB SATA hard drive (7200rpm)
* 256MB NVIDIA® GeForce 8200 graphics
* Dual Layer DVD Rewriter
* 6x USB, 1x IEEE 1394 FireWire® ports

Tech News

Compaq Presario SR5605 with 19" TFT

The Compaq Presario SR5605 with 19" TFT delivers proven technology, productivity tools, and security features to help provide a worry-free foundation for your home and business!

* AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ processor
* 2.60GHz, 800MHz FSB, 512KB Cache
* Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium
* 2GB DDR2 800MHz memory
* 320GB SATA hard drive (7200rpm)
* NVIDIA® GeForce 6150 SE graphics
* Dual Layer DVD Rewriter
* 15-in-1 media card reader
* 6x USB ports (2x front, 4x rear)
* 2x IEEE 1394 FireWire® ports

Tech News

HP TouchSmart IQ510 with 22" touchscreen display

Get smart and choose the HP TouchSmart IQ510, with SmartCenter application suite, for complete organisation for you and all the family.

With a hard working Intel® Core 2 Duo T7250 processor (2.00GHz, 800MHz FSB, 2MB Cache), Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium and a whopping 4GB memory, you will enjoy the benefits of all-round good performance on day to day programmes.

The incredibly clever SmartCenter application in the IQ510 has an organiser as well as photo editing software, to help you co-ordinate the important things in life. Never forget a doctor’s appointment, birthday party or event again.

The TouchSmart IQ510 also has a 256MB NVIDIA® GeForce 9300M GS graphics card and Dual Layer DVD Rewriter Drive to help take care of all your multimedia needs. Download, watch, listen and store multimedia with ease, thanks to the user-friendly menus and intuitive features. Wireless capability means you can stay connected to email and the web, on a home network or public hotspot.

The IQ510 comes equipped with 5x USB and 1x IEEE 1394 FireWire ports to let you easily hook up to all your external devices, and have instant and easy access to all your files and work. The 320GB SATA hard drive provides ample space to store a range of files and multimedia, from movies and music to digital images.

The HP TouchSmart IQ510 can also work with HP Printers to become a photo kiosk at home – build up a stunning family photo portfolio effortlessly.

Stay organised and on top no matter where you or your family are, with the HP TouchSmart IQ510.

* Intel® Core 2 Duo T7250 processor
* (2.00GHz, 800MHz FSB, 2MB Cache)
* Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium
* 4GB DDR2 800MHz memory
* 320GB SATA hard drive (7200rpm)
* 256MB NVIDIA® GeForce 9300M GS graphics
* Dual Layer DVD Rewriter
* 5x USB, 1x IEEE 1394 FireWire® ports
* Built-in wireless (802.11b/g/n)

Tech News

Dell Studio Hybrid 4037 with 19" TFT

Dell’s reputation precedes it as it offers its most unique, stylish and conscientious desktop PC to date in the highly desirable Studio Hybrid 4037. Quality, reliability and affordability are built in as standard.

Small enough to put anywhere in your home, the Studio Hybrid 4037 includes a powerful Intel® Pentium® Dual-Core T3200 processor and comes pre-installed with Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium - so your ready to go! You’ll find that you will be able to simultaneously run numerous programs seamlessly, thanks to its mighty 2GB DDR2 667MHz memory.

If you’re worried about not being able to cram all of your treasured files onto your desktop - don’t be!. The Hybrid 4037’s 250GB SATA hard drive (7200rpm) will fulfil all your data storage requirements, with room left over.

Available in a wide array of colours, the Dell Studio Hybrid 4037 also includes integrated graphics, 5x USB ports and a slot-in Dual Layer DVD Rewriter to allow you a wide variety of multimedia options.

* Intel® Pentium® Dual-Core T3200
* (2.00GHz, 667MHz FSB, 1MB Cache)
* Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium
* 2GB DDR2 667MHz memory
* 250GB SATA hard drive
* Integrated graphics
* Dual Layer DVD Rewriter
* 5x USB ports
* Intel® Pentium Dual-Core T3200 Processor
* 2048 mb RAM Memory

Tech News

Packard Bell iMedia X2416 with 20" TFT

The Packard Bell iMedia X2416 with 20" TFT is an incredibly powerful, great all-rounder that delivers seamless results in both office and multimedia applications.

Whether you need your PC for work or high entertainment, the Packard Bell iMedia X2416 delivers quality performance. It holds an impressive Intel® Core 2 Quad Q8200 processor and Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium to take care of all your programme needs. Enjoy incredibly fast and smooth response times on your most demanding of applications. The whopping 4GB memory adds to your X2416’s performance, giving you speedy multi-tasking.

The Packard Bell iMedia X2416 is ideal for those that require entertainment from their PC or work with a lot of multimedia. It has a Dual Layer DVD Rewriter, so you can watch all of your favourite DVDs on the included 20" TFT monitor, as well as make DVD back ups of all your most important files. Download movies from the web and make copies of them to build up a huge movie collection. You can also download mp3 tracks, images and more and store them all on the massive 640GB hard drive. The X-2416 also has a handy 18-in-1 media card reader, so getting your photos from card to PC for instance is easy. On top of all this, the Packard Bell iMedia X2-416 with 20" TFT has 6 USB ports for hooking up all of your external devices such as digital camera, camcorder, mp3 player, memory stick and more. You can build a complete entertainment system in one sleek looking package.

The Packard Bell iMedia X2416 with 20" TFT is a highly practical but edgy desktop that will bring you hours of use in both office work and entertainment.

* Intel® Core 2 Quad Q8200 processor
* 2.33GHz, 1333MHz FSB, 4MB Cache
* Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium
* 4GB DDR2 667MHz memory
* 640GB SATA hard drive (7200rpm)
* NVIDIA® GeForce® 7100 onboard graphics
* Dual Layer DVD Rewriter
* 18-in-1 media card reader
* 6x USB ports (2x front, 4x rear)

Tech News

HP Pavilion Slimline s3624 with 19" TFT and HP F4272 All-in-one

With the HP Pavilion Slimline s3624 with 19" TFT and HP F4272 All-in-one Hewlett Packard have gone one step further by supplying the full package. They have handily included a Printer / Scanner / Copier in with the deal.

The Pavilion Slimline s-3624 itself features an AMD Athlon 64 X2 4450e processor and comes complete with pre-installed Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium. You won’t find multitasking a drag, as its 2GB DDR2 800MHz memory will give it enough RAM to juggle even truly demanding programs.

With a 320GB SATA hard drive (7200rpm) the stylish Slimline s3624 will be able to store a veritable multimedia library, giving you the ability to place all your precious media in one place.

Packed with a multitude of features including 128MB NVIDIA® GeForce 6150SE graphics, a 15-in-1 media card reader, built-in wireless, 6x USB, 1x IEEE 1394 FireWire® ports and a Dual Layer DVD Rewriter, you will find HP Pavilion Slimline s3-624 with 19" TFT and HP F4272 All-in-one outstanding value for money.

* AMD Athlon 64 X2 4450e processor
* (2.3GHz, 1MB Cache)
* Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium
* 2GB DDR2 800MHz memory
* 320GB SATA hard drive (7200rpm)
* 128MB NVIDIA® GeForce 6150SE graphics
* Dual Layer DVD Rewriter
* 15-in-1 media card reader
* Built-in wireless (802.11b/g)
* 6x USB, 1x IEEE 1394 FireWire® ports

Tech News

Compaq Presario SR5601uk with 19" TFT

The Compaq Presario SR5601uk with 19" TFT will deliver you smooth and fast performance on your every day computing, in a value-for-money package.

In a design that will sit neatly in any home office, the Compaq Presario SR-5601uk with 19" TFT holds an Intel® Celeron® Dual-Core E1200 processor and Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium to help deliver you smooth and efficient multi-tasking on your every day office and multimedia programmes. The 1GB memory compounds this performance, while the 160GB hard drive provides you with ample space for storing all of your photos, films, music and more.

On top of all this, the Compaq Presario SR5601-uk PC has a Dual Layer DVD Rewriter for watching, listening and burning DVDs. Watch all your favourite movies through the clear 19" TFT screen and make hard copies of your most important data.

The 15-in-1 media card reader makes it perfect for those who take a lot of digital photos or film – downloading data to your PC is easy. It also has 6x USB ports for hooking up all your external devices such as digital camera, camcorder, mp3 player, memory sticks and more.

The Compaq Presario SR5601uk would be a practical addition and money-saving addition to any home. It offers you a good quality spec at very little cost and would make living, working and playing a breeze.

* Intel® Celeron® Dual-Core E1200
* (1.60GHz, 800MHz FSB, 512KB Cache)
* Genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium
* 1GB DDR2 800MHz memory
* 160GB SATA hard drive (7200rpm)
* Intel® GMA 3100 graphics
* Dual Layer DVD Rewriter
* 15-in-1 media card reader
* 6x USB ports (2x front, 4x rear)

Tech News

Samsung T260HD 26" Freeview LCD TV and PC monitor

This stunning LCD TV is 1080i HD ready, offering vivid images with truly breathtaking definition. Thanks to its digital TV tuner, you can watch Freeview Digital TV without the need for any additional equipment, and with it's 2 HDMI ports, you can connect to XBOX 360 and PlayStation 3 consoles, Sky HD and Blu Ray Disc™ players. The ideal choice for high definition viewing, whether in your bedroom, kitchen or study.

* Built-in Freeview TV tuner with remote
* HD Ready
* 2x HDMI, SCART, Component, VGA and DVI
* 1920x1200 resolution
* 10,000:1 contrast ratio
* 5ms response rate

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LG W1942S 19" TFT Widescreen Monitor

With a contrast ratio of 8000:1, a 5ms response rate and a resolution of 1440x900, the LG W1942S is a fantastic monitor for under £100.

* 19" viewable display
* 1440x900 resolution
* 8000:1 contrast ratio
* 5ms response rate
* VGA connectivity

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LG M1994D-PZ - 19" Freeview LCD TV and PC monitor

This stunning LCD TV offers vivid images with truly breathtaking definition. Thanks to its digital TV tuner, you can watch Freeview Digital TV without the need for any additional equipment, and with it's 2 HDMI ports, you can connect to XBOX 360 and PlayStation 3 consoles, Sky HD and Blu Ray Disc™ players. The ideal choice for high definition viewing, whether in your bedroom, kitchen or study.

* Built-in Freeview TV tuner with remote
* HD Ready
* 2x HDMI, SCART, Component, VGA and DVI
* 1680x1050 resolution
* 20,000:1 contrast ratio
* 5ms response rate
* 3 year on-site warranty

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Samsung T200 20" Rose Black TFT Monitor

For a fantastic viewing experience and a monitor that's bound to look great on your desktop, choose the Samsung T200 Widescreen LCD Monitor.

Boasting a resolution of 1680 x 1050, a massive contrast ratio of 20,000:1 and a brightness level of 300 cd/m2, the T200 Widescreen LCD Monitor produces incredible images and refresh rates no matter how hectic the scene on screen gets.

Easy to set up the Samsung T200 Widescreen LCD Monitor has a plug and play feature so no time needs to be wasted getting you up and running. Finished in a sleek and stylish black high gloss this monitor is bound to look good in any room.

* 20 inches Monitor Tube Size
* 1680 X 1050 Maximum Monitor Resolution
* 20,000:1 Contrast
* 300cd/m2
* 2msec Response Rate
* Plug & Play
* 5.4 kg Weight
* 418 mm Height
* 486 mm Width
* 215 mm Depth

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HP W1907V 19" Widescreen TFT Monitor

Unleash the visual power of the Hewlett Packard w1907v 19” Widescreen LCD Monitor and experience fantastic detail and rich colours.

Utilising BrightView technology to really enhance the image presented, the w1907v 19” Widescreen LCD Monitor makes your movies, games and photos look incredible on its convenient, space-saving flat screen.

You can relax with the w1907v Monitor as it features an improved ergonomic design for easy adjustment to suit your needs. With the Easy Clip facility, you can also save a lot of space by clipping on accessories such as photo holders and cameras.

The software package My Display allows easy one-touch adjustment of your display, and what’s more the HP w1907v 19” Widescreen LCD Monitor is fully plug-and-play for ease of installation.

Monitor Tube Size 19 inches
Dot Pitch 0.285 mm
Maximum Monitor Resolution 1440 x 900
Plug & Play YES
Flat Screen YES Flat screens reflect less and do not curve at the edges providing you with less distortion
On Screen Display NO For the simple on screen access to menu options
Height 184 mm
Width 462 mm
Depth 380 mm
Weight 5 kg This is the weight of the appliance in KG
Colour Black
Viewable Screen Size 0 inches

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Nanotech may mean sharper images

Researchers in Scotland have been given nearly half a million pounds to try to improve digital camera images.

The team, lead by scientists at the University of Glasgow, are developing small nanostructures that would be used on light detecting image sensors.

These new hi-tech chips would be used in camera equipment to produce sharper and more colourful images.

The project is being funded by a £489,234 grant from the Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council.

The researchers are using a phenomenon called surface plasmon resonance, which is an effect exhibited by certain metals when light waves fall onto their surfaces.

In digital cameras, this is the metal film used on microchip image sensors - known as a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor) - that detect light waves and convert them into digital signals.

When light shines on the metal film, electrons on the surface absorb the energy of the light waves and begin oscillating, or shaking, in groups. The resultant combined waves are called plasmons, and they modify the way light is distributed around the metal. The CMOS then measures the light and assigns it a digital value which is then used to build up the bigger image.

The Scottish scientists hope to find a way of creating patterns or small nanostructures in the metal film on the CMOS. This should increase the sensitivity of the sensor and result in higher quality images.

"We'll be using nanotechnology to manipulate particles, so as to take advantage of the properties of electrons to create a new optical effect," Professor David Cumming of Glasgow University who is leading the research team.

"Digital imaging has come a long way in recent years and this project aims to further improve the ability of digital devices to produce high-quality pictures," he added.

Researchers also want to try and "tune" resonating plasmons into the same frequency as light, which could improve colour discrimination.

The project is expected to last until the middle of 2012.

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Police urged to hack more

The Home Office has signed up to an EU strategy against cybercrime that "encourages" police across Europe to remotely access personal computers.

The plan has sparked fears that the government is looking to increase police powers to hack into people's computers without a court warrant.

UK police already do a "small number" of such operations under existing law.

However, the Home Office said the EU agreement would not affect police behaviour and was not legally binding.

The plan, drawn up by the Council of the European Union, makes broad statements on how to improve European cyber crime-fighting, including inviting countries to introduce remote searches if they are already provided for under national law.

In a statement regarding the agreement, the Council stated that "the new strategy encourages [the police and the private sector] to…resort to remote searches."

British law already allows police to remotely access computers under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, which allows surveillance to "prevent or detect serious crime".

A spokesman for the Association of Chief Police Officers (Acpo) told The Times newspaper that police were already carrying out a small number of these operations among the 194 clandestine searches last year of people's homes, offices, and hotel rooms.

"The UK has agreed to a strategic approach to tackling cybercrime with other EU member states, but this is separate from existing UK laws," the Home Office said in a statement, adding that the plan is not legally binding and there is no timescale for implementing the strategy.

'Sophisticated products'

Jacques Barrot, Vice-President of the European Commission, said in a statement that the goal is to ensure EU countries are committed to the fight against computer crime.

Professor Peter Sommer, a cybercrime expert at the London School of Economics, doubts that the strategy will increase the amount of police hacking.

"The products are out there, they've been available for quite a long time and they are pretty sophisticated, however they probably aren't going to get used very much," he told BBC News.

Most anti-virus programs and firewalls will detect surveillance attempts because they are designed to stop the remote access software or Trojan-type viruses that hackers - even police hackers - usually use, he explained.

Prof Sommer also pointed out that evidence gathered from hacking is difficult to defend in court, because prosecutors must prove that it has not been tampered with.

"Normally, when computers are examined forensically, a great deal of care is taken to ensure that nothing is written to the computer when the examination is taking place," said Prof Sommer. "Once you start looking at a computer remotely, all of those controls vanish."

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