New 9.5 mm Western Digital Scorpio Blue Mobile Drive Offers Largest Capacity Available for Portable Computing
6 September 2011
The quest for a slimmer, smaller footprint is noticeably evident in the IT industry and distributor Drive Control Corporation (DCC) is meeting this demand with the introduction of its latest release, the WD Scorpio Blue 9.5 mm, 2.5-inch mobile hard drive with 1 TB capacity.
Designed for mainstream notebook computers, the new WD Scorpio Blue 1 TB hard drive utilises 500 GB-per-platter areal density and is now available in the highest capacity for 2.5-inch hard drives in the industry-standard 9.5 mm, two-platter (2-disk) form factor.
WD Scorpio Blue mobile hard drives are designed with ruggedness, reliability and data-protection features that actively watch over valuable data. The WD Scorpio Blue 1 TB mobile hard drive also achieves excellent power and performance, making it an ideal solution for notebook computers and other portable devices that require extended battery life and cool, ultra-quiet operation.
"With the release of the 1 TB WD Scorpio Blue notebook drive in a 9.5 mm package, WD is able to offer the greatest storage capacity available for use in portable computing environments," says said Matt Rutledge, vice president and general manager of Client Storage for WD."Mobile users no longer need to choose maximum capacity over thin and light, WD is ready with storage options, achieved without compromise to performance and reliability that prove ideal for mobile digital devices of all kinds including PC and Mac notebook computers; external storage; and digital media players."
Says Robert Smyth, WD product specialist at DCC, "Digital content is increasing exponentially, further requiring external storage for photos, movies and music.This product is ideal for the local market as users including business and consumer, are increasingly looking towards mobility, providing convenience without the addition weight of large, bulky products."
WD Scorpio Blue Features:
Low power consumption - Advanced power management features and algorithms optimise the way the drive seeks for data, which significantly improves powerconsumption.
Cool and quiet - In a notebook drive, silence is golden. WD's exclusive WhisperDrive technology yields one of the quietest 2.5-inch hard drives on the market.
Reliable - WD's SecurePark parks the recording heads off the disk surface during spin up, spin down, and when the drive is off. This ensures the recordinghead never touches the disk surface resulting in improved long term reliability due to less head wear, and improved non-operational shock tolerance.
Shock Tolerant - WD's ShockGuard technology, now increased to a best-in-market 400Gs shock specification, protects the drive mechanics and platter surfacesfrom shocks.
Advanced Format (AF) - Technology being adopted by WD and other drive manufacturers to continue growing hard drive capacities. New drives featuring AF areoptimised for operation with the following operating system software: Windows 7, Windows Vista and Mac OS X Tiger, Leopard, Snow Leopard (PVT models only).
Tested for compatibility - WD performs tests on hundreds of systems and a multitude of platforms in its FIT Lab and Mobile Compatibility Lab to give customers confidence that drives will work in specific systems.
The WD Scorpio Blue 9.5 mm, 2.5-inch mobile hard drive with 1 TB capacity is available from resellers and various retail outlets.
Offers 750GB of high-performance storage, for capacity hungry systems
7 September 2011
Distributor Drive Control Corporation has recently introduced Western Digital's WD Scorpio Black 750 GB, 7200 RPM 2.5-inch SATA hard drive for high-performance notebook computers and portable storage devices.
One of the fastest hard drives on the market, WD Scorpio Black drives, combine class-leading 7200 RPM spin speed and 16 MB cache to deliver maximum notebook performance. Now available in capacities of up to 750 GB, the WD Scorpio Black hard drives provide creative professionals, gamers and PC enthusiasts with additional capacity they need to get their job done. Using Advanced Format (AF) technology, the WD Scorpio Black 750 GB hard drives also incorporate a variety of data-protection features to actively monitor and protect valuable data.
Says Robert Smyth, WD product specialist at DCC, "As digital content proliferates, hard drives are having to store more without compromising performance. The latest WD Scorpio Black hard drive for notebooks is meeting this demand and with its 16MB of cache memory, is uncompromising when it comes to speed."
"Our most demanding customers have come to expect 'no compromises' from our all of our Black series products," explains Matt Rutledge, vice president of product marketing for WD. "The new WD Scorpio Black drive does not disappoint, providing users of portable devices the necessary speed, significant storage and efficient power management needed to enjoy their favourite HD content, high resolution images, powerful office applications or gaming at home, in the office or on the road."
The WD Scorpio Black 750 GB internal hard drive is available at selected retail outlets with a recommended retail price of R 900.00 inclusive of V.A.T.
Johnson Controls launches cutting edge cooling solutions to the local market
8 September 2011
Following the international launch of several cutting edge solutions, Johnson Controls Systems & Service Division took its latest offerings to market at a series of local events which took place from 6-10 June in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town and Gaborone.
The events were held for 170 key customers across the region to highlight the latest features and advanced environmental sustainability of the products, which included two high efficiency air cool chillers, a centrifugal magnetic bearing chiller, the innovative rooftop air conditioning package unit and an enhancement to Johnson Controls' building management system (BMS), Metasys, to optimise chiller plants.
Says Neil Cameron, General Manager at Johnson Controls Systems & Service:
"Johnson Controls has invested significant time, effort and funding into the research and development of new products to meet the changing needs of the global market. This event was designed to showcase these new products to our key customers in the region, including distributors, consultants, installers, resellers and end users and create awareness of our updated offering."
One of the most notable developments in the new products from Johnson Controls is their increased levels of sustainability, in line with a growing global trend towards great environmental consciousness.
"Our new chiller units use significantly less gas than previous models, which means dramatically reduced greenhouse gas emissions, less pollution and a decreased carbon footprint. We have also focused on reducing noise output on our cooling systems, lowering noise pollution, which is particularly important in residential areas," Cameron adds.
During the event attendees were taken through an overview of the new products and their value proposition, the features and functionality of the offerings as well as expected return on investment. High energy savings were a focus - something which is of growing interest in the local market given the rising utility costs. Products showcased at the event included the YMC2, YVAA and YLPA chillers, the Tempo Heat Pump as well as the Activa Rooftop unit.
The unveiling of these products at local events highlights Johnson Controls'
commitment to the environment and shows the company's strong focus around developing products that are effective, silent, sustainable and energy efficient.
"The event was very successful and proved informative and insightful for all who attended. The launch of these products was the perfect platform to touch base with our key clients and show them what Johnson Controls has to offer in the modern world," Cameron concludes.
About Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 154,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful. In 2011, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the
#1 company in its annual "100 Best Corporate Citizens" list. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com
About Johnson Controls Building Efficiency Johnson Controls delivers products, services and solutions that increase energy efficiency and lower operating costs in buildings for more than one million customers. Operating from 500 branch offices in more than 150 countries, we are a leading provider of equipment, controls and services for heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, refrigeration and security systems.
We have been involved in more than 500 renewable energy projects including solar, wind and geothermal technologies. Our solutions have reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 13.6 million metric tons and generated savings of $7.5 billion since 2000. Many of the world's largest companies rely on us to manage 1.5 billion square feet of their commercial real estate.
Philips Monitors has recently appointed Computer Repairs Technologies (CRT), a company that specialises in the 'break/fix' sector of the IT industry, as its service centre for all warranty and out of warranty repairs on its monitors.This is providing Philips monitor customers with a specialist service centre that features a wealth of technical and IT experience, delivering a service level that matches the Philips brand.
Says Tyrone Young from Philips Monitors South Africa, "The move to appoint CRT as our service centre was a strategic one as the company's reputation, skills in the field of monitors and commitment to the highest service levels serves the Philips brand best. The company has a national footprint which means that customers from Pretoria to Poffadder will have a branch that is within their provincial reach that will repair their monitor in the event of a fault."
CRT's national footprint includes service centres in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth, Nelspruit and Bloemfontein.The appointment of CRT means that service monitors which develop faults within the three year 'carry in' warranty period will be repaired within three days.
A monitor is a crucial component of an organisation's ICT arsenal and renders a PC useless if not in working order, making the service centre a crucial component of the after sales service.
CRT will also repair Philips monitors where the warranty has expired but obviously this cost is for the customer's account. CRT will provide a quote to repair the monitor and the customer can decide whether to pursue this course or purchase a new monitor.
Says Rique Palma, Operations Director at CRT, "CRT is pleased to have been selected as Philips'monitor service partner. In this relative short period we have established a sound working relationship with Philips and conjunction with DCC, the sole distributor of Philips monitors in South Africa, have set up the required processes and procedures to enable us to provide best-in-class service to Philips and DCCs monitor customers. As CRT specialises predominately in monitor repairs, we have the required infrastructure to perform all operations relating to monitor repair activities. Along with our national partner network, we provide the complete spectrum of after sales service to all Philips monitors distributed by DCC."
CRT is not only the official service centre for Philips monitors but is also the preferred service centre for LG, Samsung, HP and Lenovo, providing testimony to the company's expertise in the field of after sales repairs and maintenance.
Value for money - precision and perfection, the new Dell Vostro 1540 laptop, now available from DCC
13 September 2011
Efficient, fast and durable. The new Vostro 1540 is designed to deliver superior performance, keeping you and your business on a winning path. With features such as vivid graphics, great speed and mobility this laptop delivers in all areas and is one of the best laptops in its range.
"The Dell Vostro 1540's performance is definitely a key feature in comparison withits predecessor, the Dell Vostro 1015. Its robust quality, design and high quality finish are also key features," says Nitesh Devanand, Dell Consumer Product Specialist at DCC.
Perfect for everyday business, the Vostro 1540 boasts pure precision and speed to get work done efficiently and effectively with Intel iCore Processors and Windows 7 Professional. With features such as an Intel HD graphics 3000 card and crystal clear clarity with the High Definition (HD) Wide LED Anti-Glare Display, presentations are pleasing to the eye.The 1.3MP webcam and built in microphone makes video conferencing a cinch, enhancing your communication with clients. Enjoy the ability to connect virtually anywhere with built-in WiFi and optional Bluetooth 3.0.
"This notebook is ideal for the business user that needs to complete their daily tasks quickly, manage e-mails and create a variety of spreadsheets and word documents," Devanand adds.
Powerful but still elegantly designed the Vostro 1540 is available in stately London Slate Grey with a solid hinge design and anti-fingerprint cover for a top-class quality finish. The spacious touchpad and chiclet keyboard is perfect for typing and is both comfortable and ultra convenient.
Being connected is essential to all businesses and with the Vostro 1540 connectivity is a breeze with three USB ports plus HDMI & VGA ports, giving you the ability to connect to various external devices such as hard drives, printers and USB flash drives.
"This notebook is a winner for business users and delivers remarkable value for money," Devanand adds.
The Dell Vostro 1540 is distributed by DCC and is available through resellers and various retail outlets.The recommended retail price is R5999.00 including V.A.T.
Many contact centre operations have traditionally been outsourced by enterprises, therefore different outsourcing options and models abound.
Depending on budget and business imperatives, organisations may or may not own the call centre, directly employ the agents, or control the enabling technology in an outsourcing scenario. The biggest recent shift, however, is that technology is no longer the focus of contact centre outsource deals; instead, it is functionality and, in particular, the ability to continually measure, monitor and optimise outputs.
Technology has been commoditised to the point that it doesn't matter where you get it - whether you own it, access it as part of a hosted solution, go into the cloud for it, or make use of a hybrid of these options. What does matter is that you have the use of a service with the right functionality to fully enable - even optimise - business tasks, cost-effectively and efficiently. It is what provides a competitive edge. To achieve this you need to find a service provider with the right expertise, experience and technology insight - a partner with a vested interest in seeing your business succeed.
Accurately translating business functionality into technology requirements lies at the heart of a successful outsourcing exercise, and this is perhaps what differentiates the really great outsourcer from the mediocre today.
The service provider may be niche, but must have breadth and depth - be able to supply and operate the technology and/or integrate into an organisation's backend systems, or leveraging the organisation's existing investments in a hybrid solution to meet budget and functional requirements, while also catering to the contact centre's need for flexibility and scalability.
The value of outsourcing the entire function is that the user does not have to worry about upgrades, licensing and keeping the right skills on hand to integrate, configure, support and maintain the solution. They just agree an SLA with the service provider who takes care of it all. In addition, if the strategy is to move this function from a capex to opex operation, a service provider is likely to be able to offer that option. However, if core business functionality will rely on this infrastructure, the smart thing would be to go with a service provider who is willing, and has the ability, to offer more than a 'vanilla' solution.
In the contact centre arena that comes down to the service provider understanding both the business and technology needs - whether the contact centre is running an operation focussed on sales, support, administration or ad hoc in- and outbound campaigns - and being able to offer a suitable in-budget solution. Despite all the hoo-ha about hosted solutions and cloud computing, the reality is that organisations often need to maximise existing investments. The service provider should be able to identify and implement such a solution, migrating to cloud and other solutions as it becomes 'safe' and viable to do so.
The same is true of human resources in the contact centre - to maximise operational performance and productivity, and achieve the right results for clients, agent focus and outputs need to be managed. The service provider should be able to offer the tools - such as IVR and ACD (automated call distribution), predictive dialling and least cost routing (including VoIP within the organisation) - to meet those needs. Again, since the user does not need to own or licence the technology, only paying for use, it doesn't break the bank. It's strategic partnering of the best kind - everybody wins.
And last but not least, the outsource service provider needs to understand strategies and trends, adapting it's outsource offering to maximise benefits for the user. This measured upgrade path should involve new or additional functionality as well as technology models, perhaps moving from ownership and private technology clouds to a public technology cloud as security and scalability capabilities improve.
By Paul Fick, Divisional CEO at Jasco ICT, Enterprise Communication
The proliferation of cloud computing has seen some people happily floating on cloud nine and prophesise an inevitable paradigm shift in IT while others believe it is really just a rebottled and labelled version of an existing technology. Indeed, there are few other IT topics that generate a wider chasm in opinions.
And yes - the advantages are clear: computing power and storage on demand, billing models to complement the demand model, low investment risk, access to applications without prior installation onto the end terminal, direct integration of smart phones and tablet PCs - even the complete outsourcing of the IT infrastructure is possible.
Low power consumption is also a significant contribution to environmental protection. Many companies therefore turn to IT resources and applications from the cloud. IDC analyst Frank Gens even refers to cloud computing as the IT engine of the next twenty years.
However, cloud computing is no silver bullet and whilst the arguments are convincing, it is definitely not a one-size-fits-all scenario.
Sensitive data, regulatory compliance and security are some of the most pertinent discussions around the feasibility of cloud. Not all data can be moved across company borders, much less into foreign countries.
Corporations increasingly voice concerns about ensuring data privacy, including making sure that foreign government agencies do not have access to sensitive competitive data and intellectual property.
The challenge is to understand what does fit into the cloud model and how this will benefit a prospective cloud user. Public clouds quickly reach their limits as it is just that, public. Private and hybrid cloud solutions, however, offer ways to solve these issues and leverage the advantages of cloud.
For example, with a private cloud it is possible to define clear jurisdictions for each individual company - T-Systems in South Africa has its very own dedicated data centre for cloud users. Access rights for user groups can be narrowed down to a very small circle that has access to the most sensitive data which cannot even be seen by the responsible administrator.
Private clouds also offer the dynamic operation of business-critical services through the implementation of service levels. And all this can be achieved without compromising functions on the customer's side.
Even though cloud solutions are rapidly available for use - the jump into the cloud must not be done as an end in itself. A significant reduction of costs or the rapid mobile integration of applications is only reasonable when it involves a real business case.
Therefore, ensure that you do partner with experts that provide suitable consulting services to reconcile the new cloud services with the existing IT world and its business processes. And importantly, opt for a service provider that meets global standards and roll it out in a local manner.
By Roelof Louw, Cloud Expert at T-Systems in South Africa
Press Release: Robust, revolutionary - enhanced speed and specs, the new Dell Vostro 3350, now available from DCC
21 September 2011
Distributor Drive Control Corporation (DCC) has recently introduced the new Dell Vostro 3350 notebook, packed with remarkable speed, power and enhanced performance. The Dell Vostro 3350 is the perfect companion, providing the business power user with a notebook that can keep up with their fast and demanding pace.
The performance of this notebook is enhanced with DDR3 memory, and the latest Intel processing power, the Intel Core i5 processor and an upgrade to Windows 7 Professional Operating System. Specifically designed to cater to a business users needs, the Dell Vostro 3350 notebook delivers a wide range of features that make it a perfect match.
Says Nitesh Devanand, Dell Consumer Product Specialist at DCC, "The Dell Vostro 3350 is more than impressive processing power. It also features 4GB RAM and a hard drive that stores 500GB of data.And as many business users are mobile users too, the added 3G embedded slot makes connectivity simple and unobtrusive.Downloading email, accessing the corporate server and communicating via social networking sites is easy."
Time is crucial in any business and the Dell Vostro 3350 includes two USB
3.0 ports enabling data transfers of up to ten times the speed of USB 2.0.
The Dell Vostro 3350 also comes with Bluetooth 3.0, letting you transfer at up to 24 Mbps thus giving you the ability to move large files in just a few seconds.
Communicate wherever you are with the Dell Vostro 3350's built-in HD webcam, digital array microphones to omit background noise, preinstalled Skype and SRS Premium Voice Pro software for a distinct and clear voice and video communication solution.
Working day or night is not a problem with the optional backlit keyboard, but still having the added benefit of an extended battery life up to twelve hours and an optional 9 cell battery.
The Dell Vostro 3350 notebook is a business user's most practical asset, providing great specifications that deliver performance and functionality.
Coupled with a 3 year guarantee, the Dell Vostro 3350 is truly in a league of its own.
The Dell Vostro 3350 is available at all major retailers at the recommended retail price of R9, 999.00 inclusive of V.A.T.
iLAB, South Africa’s leading software testing company, has received a level 3 Broad Based Black Economic Empowerment Level. “Black economic empowerment is something real at iLAB.
BEE is not about window dressing. It’s about empowering others through these important initiatives and adding true value to our business. It is through BEE and other actions that we are able to truly build a stronger South Africa”, says iLAB Director, Jethro Lloyd.
For customers, the new rating means that they can improve their own BEE rating by doing business with iLAB – a company that is committed to the principles of broad-based black economic empowerment. “We are constantly looking at ways of improving our rating”, adds Lloyd.
He says, “Our newest rating is a true reflection of our on-going commitment to sustainable empowerment across all the elements of the BEE rating system – including management, transformation, preferential procurement, CSI and skills development”.
This announcement follows the acquisition of software testing company Test and Data Services and the remaining 50% of iLAB LLC .
iLAB specialises in Software Quality Assurance services, providing global solutions to its customers. It offers a comprehensive and integrated service portfolio. iLAB’s solutions are provided through their best-of-breed methodologies and tools supported by their international skills base and proven competencies. iLAB has offices in South Africa, USA, UK and Australia - and leverage on their holding company EPI-USE which has offices in over 20 territories.
iLAB, South Africa’s largest software testing company, has acquired the remaining 50% stake in the Indiana-based iLAB LLC from business partner WDD Inc. The two companies joined forces in early 2010, when they jointly setup iLAB LLC in Indiana. The success of the partnership resulted in iLAB acquiring WDD Inc.’s 50% stake in the Indiana-based company, in 2011.
WDD Inc. initially recognised that software development and software testing were almost identical disciplines, and establishedMobius Labs to provide technology-focused services in the software quality assurance arena. WDD Inc. lacked IP and expertise, and as a result a relationship with iLAB was formed by creating a new company, iLAB LLC, and rolling the Mobius Labs entity into the new company. This not only added value to iLAB LLC through iLAB’s IP, but also through their unique contribution of South African expertise, set iLAB LLC ahead of its competitors. “It was a partnership perfectly suited for iLAB LLC”, says iLAB Director, Jethro Lloyd, “because of our unique and invaluable experience, and our proven track-record in performance and automated testing.”
However, iLAB felt they needed more independence, and it was decided to acquire the outstanding 50% of the company from WDD Inc.
“It’s a perfect example of a South Africa company expanding and taking its business globally.” Lloyd says. “We have a flawless record of securing business in our chosen markets by bringing new and high-end solutions to clients. The acquisition of the remaining stake in iLAB LLC, with its outstanding team, adds an additional element to our business and endorses our commitment to being the leader in software testing. It means we can move forward with our plans to continue our mission of delivering the most advanced solutions to mainstream markets.”
This deal follows hot on the heels of iLAB’s acquisition of Test and Data Services (TDS) in March this year.
iLAB LLC Managing Director, Gary Bailey, welcomes the deal. He says, “We have had a successful and mutually beneficial relationship for some 18 months. The two organisations were a force to be reckoned with, when coupled together. This acquisition was a natural progression”.
With its acquisitions, its fired-up determination and smart strategies, iLAB has significantly increased its market share in Indianapolis and on both East and West coasts of the USA. Lloyd concludes, “We’ve grown immensely in terms of our client base, especially in the short term”.
iLAB has reached a level of maturity in its South African operation, and will continue to review acquisitions for global expansion. The Johannesburg-based organisation already has a presence in the United States, the UK and Australia.
iLAB specialises in Software Quality Assurance services, providing global solutions to its customers. It offers a comprehensive and integrated service portfolio. iLAB’s solutions are provided through their best-of-breed methodologies and tools supported by their international skills base and proven competencies. iLAB has offices in South Africa, USA, UK and Australia - and leverage on their holding company EPI-USE which has offices in over 20 territories.
In a strategic move to expand its service offering to South African ICT marketplace, Intdev Internet Technologies, a business solutions specialist company, has acquired MegaWeb Internet Services.
The acquisition, which comes into immediate effect, adds a complimentary layer of services to the company’s current value offering plus a team of Internet connectivity specialist that will no doubt benefit both current and future customers and fortify support and service delivery.
Additionally, the acquisition follows the recent merger of Intdev and Liquid8 which saw the establishment of one entity called IntdevInternet Technologies and falls in line with the company’s strengthening position in the SA and African marketplaces.
MegaWeb, is a local success story and has since its inception in 1996 diversified its ISP offering to include software development, Virtual Private Networks (VPN), domain administration, hosting and networking. The company has focused predominately on the SME marketplace.
“Our acquisition of MegaWeb was no doubt a strategic one as we believe the company and its team offers the additional skills and experience to enable us to grow our own business and offer services that differentiate Intdev Internet Technologies in a highly competitive marketplace,” comments Christiaan Mienie, CEO of Intdev Internet Technologies.
“We are extremely excited to; for example, add Megaweb’s software development skills to our own team. In a world where tailored, customised offerings have become increasingly important, MegaWeb’s expertise will enable us to enhance our offering to companies that require solutions that geared towards their specific business needs.”
The recently formed Intdev Internet Technologies will with the acquisition of Megaweb continue to go from strength-to-strength, offering services such as: dedicated servers; 3G; WiMAX; VoIP; ecommerce platforms; and CRMs (Customer Relationship Management systems) backed by an experienced 24x7 support team and bespoke software development skills.
