By Terry Currier
Comdex this year was disappointing. It was much smaller than
in the past. It was disappointing in the sense that it could have been more. A
lot of companies dropped out after September 11, thirteen companies withdrew on
Sunday before it was to start. If it were not for the large areas taken up by Korea, Taiwan, and
other international companies they would have only 2/3 of the convention
center. I usually take a dozen or more boxes of press material, this time six.
Anyway here is information on some of companies showing there, more to come in
the following months.
I have to mention the SSP booth which was so popular at the show partly because you got to relax in a comfortable chair, but it was cool. They had a dozen chairs in a circle around seven video projectors which moved back and forth, and up and down. This really made the presentation more fun.
Click here for Review of video projectors shown at Comdex
Belkin Nostromo SpeedPad n50 ($36), for the gamers
out there this is a cool new tool. It can best be described as a combination
keyboard and game pad. The 10 keys on the n50 act as keys on a keyboard with
the advantage of being easily accessible and intuitively configured. The n50
also has an eight-way directional pad, much like the d-pad on a standard game
pad. Call (800) 2BELKIN or http://www.belkin.com
CyberExtruder.com is a that has developed software
(CyberX-3D™) and web-based technology, which will convert a single
2-dimensional (2D) image into a fully developed 3-dimensional (3D) model -- in
just a few seconds. With it you can put your face on the character or a game
such as Quake3. They put Bin Laden’s picture as and addition for Quake and
other games and it became a popular download for people who wanted to “kill”
him. They are also working on using your own face in chat, instant messages, or
online shopping. http://www.cyberextruder.com
Keyboard Video Mouse devices used to control two or more computers using only one keyboard, video display, and mouse.
APC has switches with automatic scanning feature,
cascading capabilities, hot pluggable operation, keep alive feature, Microsoft
Intellimouse support, a mouse reset feature, on screen display capability,
Password Security, push button or keyboard switching, status indicator LED's,
and video modes up to 1600 x 1200 at 72Hz. Call (800) 877-4080 or http://www.apcc.com
Avocent will extend a keyboard, mouse, monitor, speakers, microphone, and serial port up to 500 feet away with one Category 5 UTP cable. Their Outlook series is for Enterprise users. The 8 port 180ES is a single user system with a built-in Windows like interface. It will control up to 128 computers from a single console. Call (866) AVO-CENT
Belkin was featuring new innovations in
Keyboard/Video/Mouse Switches for the SOHO environment.
The OmniView E Series 4-port KVM Switch PS/2 platform is $100. The E Series
also supports high-quality resolution of up to 2048x1536@85Hz when used with
coaxial VGA cabling. It requires no additional power supply and standard
features include hot key functionality, keyboard and PS/2 emulations, and a
Two-Year Warranty. They also have a 16-port for $900 allowing selecting up to
256 attached servers. Call (800) 2BELKIN or http://www.belkin.com
DigitalV6 showed the Kaveman which has 8 KVM port hookups. Use it for remote server management over IP. Security includes 128-bit SSL encryption, stealth and turtle mode. Monitors attached computers for failed power loss, and video problems. It can reset controlled computer either by turning off its AC power, or performing a hardware reset. Call (905) 513-3107 or http://www.digitalv6.com
IOGEAR introduced the MiniView III a USB KVM
Peripheral sharing switch with USB sniffing technology. It allows one USB
console to control up to four computers and two USB devices with one switch. It
also reduces the delay typically experienced when switching computers and allows
multiple computers to be booted simultaneously. It includes 2048x1536 video
quality. The two and four port adapters are priced at $200 and $300
respectively, available in the first quarter of 2002. IOGEAR's GCS124U is daisy
chainable which will allow you to control up to 64 computers from one USB
keyboard, monitor, and mouse. The on screen display allows you to name each
computer and set security access for each. Call (949) 428-1111 or http://www.iogear.com
Linksys manufactures the ProConnect KVM Switch connecting multiple PCs to a single keyboard, video monitor, and mouse. Switching is done with the touch of a key. Call 800) 546-5797 or http://www.linksys.com
Raritan makes a number of different KVM adapters. The Paragon will control up to 2,048 computers from 16 user consoles. The MasterConsole II will control up to 256 computers from one console. With Cat5 Reach you can extend the distance between your KVM up to 1,000 feet using Category 5 UTP cable. Call (800) 724-8090 or http://www.raritan.com
Tripp Lite KVM Adapters allow users to control a mixed installation of Macintosh, USB, SUN or AT computers with Tripp Lite 2-, 4- or 8-port PS/2 KVM Switches. The adapters seamlessly convert the signals to PS/2 keyboard/mouse and video commands. It allows users to locate a keyboard/monitor/mouse console in a convenient location for easy access while connecting to computers up to 500 feet away. Inexpensive Category 5e cabling provides communication between the two locations. Call (773) 869-1234 or http://www.tripplite.com
Belkin was displaying for home, or SOHO
use Wireless LAN (802.11b) products.
The complete line offers 11Mbps data
transfer rates, data and network security providing 64/128-bit WEP data
encryption. It comes with software which guides users through the configuration
process of their Windows-based PCs for networking. The Access Point (F5D6130 –
ESP $180) allows users to connect their wireless-equipped computers to their
wired network.
Their PCMCIA 11Mbps Card (F5D6020 – ESP $100), and 11Mbps Wireless Desktop PCI Network Adapter Card (F5D6000 – ESP $40), both add Wireless Ethernet capabilities to a user’s choice of PCs.
Need a Cable/DSL Router? Try the F5D6230-3 – ESP $300, it allows PC and Mac users to share a Broadband Internet connection. Its integrated 3-port 10/100 Base-T Ethernet switch allows the user to connect wired computers to their wireless network. With its added NAT firewall, the Router protects the user’s network from outside intrusions by hackers. Advanced features include IP-Sec pass-thru, which allows the user to work from home using Virtual Private Networking (VPN), and DMZ hosting, which, among other things, lets users play accelerated games over the Internet by placing the gaming computer outside of the firewall. Call (800) 2BELKIN or http://www.belkin.com
Linksys truly has all the bases covered. With 10/100 Ethernet LAN setups including a new 16 port switch featuring auto-partitioning and data collision control. Move up and you get the new 2000Mbps Gigabit Series and 24 ports. Want wireless? Their 80211.b EtherFast Wireless AP+Cable/DSL Router with printer server gives you 11Mbps, and operates up to 1500 feet. Connections with PCI cards, PCMCIA cards or USB. Coming soon they will have USB 2.0 hubs, cards, and adapters. They also have wireless routers, and broadband modems for the networks. How about phoneline networking, yes they have that too. With setup using Ethernet Bridge or USB network adapter. The new HomeLink PhoneLine Cable/DSL router even has a built-in firewall. Call 800) 546-5797 or http://www.linksys.com
NETGEAR was exhibiting its MR314 Cable/DSL Wireless Router, based on 802.11b technology. It allows wireless and wired LAN users to share a broadband Internet connection while providing Web-content filtering options. For small office networks the FR318 Cable/DSL Firewall Router includes Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) for Denial of Service (DoS) attack protection and one VPN tunnel capability. The FV318 Cable/DSL VPN Firewall Router initiates five Internet Protocol Security-based (IPSec-based) VPN tunnels for end-to-end security between authentic remote sites or mobile users, and includes SPI, static and dynamic content filtering capabilities. The FR318 and FV318 support 168-bit Triple Digital Encryption Standard (3DES) technology.
NETGEAR is promoting its end-to-end gigabit solutions for the small business network. It supports 1000 Mbps over Category 5 cables and up to 2000 Mbps of full-duplex bandwidth over copper wiring. It comes is 16 and 24-port. If you want another way try their Powerline home network. It enables multiple PCs and entertainment devices to share the broadband Internet even while other appliances, such as a hair dryer, use power. It uses the HomePlug 1.0 specification compliant, and operates at speeds up to 14 Mbps from anywhere in the home. Call (888) NETGEAR http://www.netgear.com
Proxim lets you experience 100 Mbps wireless
networking in your conference room, classroom, or office with the Harmony
802.11a FastWireless Kit. With the
Harmony CardBus Card you get 54 Mbps data rate in 802.11a mode, but up
to 108 Mbps data rate in Proxim's 2X mode. 
Each Harmony contains:
The 802.11a protocol improves the speed, capacity, and reliability by offering more channels than 802.11b, operating in the license-free 5 GHz band. With their Homeline™ Product Family you can turn your phonelines into a network. Anywhere you have a standard telephone jack you can create a network. Call (800)229-1630 http://www.proxim.com
SMC makes the EZ
Connect 802.11a Wireless Access Point (SMC2755W) based on the new IEEE 802.11a
wireless standard. Using an enhanced “turbo mode” feature, this new Wireless
Access Point can transfer data at speeds up to 72Mbps, and can also support a
maximum operating range up to 1,650 feet. By using a built-in Web-based
interface, you can easily configure and manage the Access Point into your
existing wired network. It supports up to 64 simultaneous wireless network
connections. To provide network security it supports encryption using both
64-bit and 128-bit WEP, and provides an extra security feature with 152-bit
WEP. It’s designed to operate in the 5GHz frequency spectrum, and features
simple Plug-and-Play support. Call (800) SMC-4YOU or http://www.smc.com
ArialPhone is
designed to make phone calling more efficient. Its voice-dialing software allows
users to place analog phone calls through a computer contact database, simply
by saying a person's name or phone number. Works with Microsoft Outlook or
Outlook Express. They announced a new light-weight (1.25 ounces) wireless microphone. It allows the user to be mobile up to 150 feet from the
ArialPhone unit. Ready now for $400, works with Windows 98, ME and Windows
2000. (847) 573-9925
Nokia certainly had a phone that caught my interest,
albeit not my pocketbook. It was the Nokia 9290, a cell phone and PDA
combination. The body of the phone
lifts up so you have a fair size LCD (up to
4,096 colors) display, allow with a QWERTY keyboard. It weights 8.6 ounces, up
to 5-way conference calling, a voice recorder, and speakerphone. Wireless Internet (via WAP1.1), send and
receive faxes, or email. Office applications compatible with Word and Excel,
and has a PowerPoint compatible slide viewer. It cost $800. Call (888) NOKIA-2U
or http://www.nokia.com
Security
Saflink offers enterprise software solutions for most security platforms. They support a range of products from voice, face and to their own fingerprint senor device. Call (425) 278-1100 or http://www.saflink.com
Siemens was showing a biometric ID mouse, and software development kits for them. Call 011-049-89-722-49255 (Germany) or http://www.siemens.com/biometrics
SSP Solutions has announced their SSPTM Biometric 250, it’s a smart card reader integrated with fingerprint biometrics. Used for secure data transmission, protected communications and transactions, and proof of identity in networked and physical environments. It offers optional three-factor authentication, something you have (the smart card), something you know (the PIN) and something you are (your fingerprint) -- resulting in a high level of security. The biometric template of a person's fingerprint is actually held on the smart card along with the digital certificate. It requires USB port connectors, supports Windows 95(2nd edition)-98, ME and 2000 platforms. It is expected to be available for mass deployment in March 2002. Call (949) 851-1085 or http://www.sspsolutions.com
TODOS covers security with different products. They have the Argos Mini, a passive smart card reader/writer for the PC. It plugs into the USB port, giving it all the power it needs. They also make the Midi Pay phone. It is a smart card phone ideal for those needing to track or limit phone access. http://www.todos.se SecuGen makes biometric peripherals including keyboards secured by a smart card, or fingerprint recognition. They also make mice with fingerprint recognition including a optical mouse. Fingerprint activated 128 bit encryption is provide with SecuDesktop2000 to secure data files. The images are not stored on the system, but rather used and encode as templates from which they can not be recreated. Call (408) 942-3400 or http://www.secugen.com
Visionics ask: Did you know there are about 80 nodal points on the face. Only 14-22 nodal points (landmark) are needed for their program FaceIt to identify you. These landmarks are closely related to the anatomical bone structure on the face. Identity is by the presence of them as well as the spatial relationship between them.
Note each of the following make both UPS and Surge Protectors.
APC makes a UPS with 650VA/410W with Interface Port DB-9 RS-232 port. Its general features include surge protected outlets, audible alarms, automatic voltage regulation (AVR), Ethernet protection, hot swap batteries, battery management, Internet FAX - modem - DSL protection, along with a site wiring fault indicator. Software for desktops that provides UPS manageability and safe system shutdown in Windows 95/98/ME environments. Surge energy rating is 480 joules, filtering multi-pole noise, zero clamping response time with it meeting UL 1449 specs. Call (800) 877-4080 or http://www.apcc.com
Belkin produces UPS and Surge Protectors. For example
the Regulator Pro Gold Series, the 525VA UPS Regulator Pro with Automatic
Voltage Regulation suggested cost is $105. It protects against power brownouts and blackouts, and has a $80,000
equipment and Data Recovery Warranty. Which means if your computer and/or hard
drive is damage while connected they will provide data recovery services at no
cost to you. This unit has 8 surge-protected outlets, four of which also
include battery backup. Free shutdown software, Internet line and 10Base-T
Network protection with built in splitter and 6-foot RJ11 cable included. It
has 32 minutes of backup time. Their surge protectors go all the way up to 3540
Joules/180,000 amps maximum spike. Ask for their catalog with informative
frequently asked questions. Call (800) 2BELKIN or http://www.belkin.com
Tripp Lite has a unique feature on their UPS
units. Select models have special receptacles that allow you to control
independently
through PowerAlert software. It lets you reboot a locked up computer, or shut down less important
systems, preserving battery runtime for more critical equipment. Their BC PRO 600
UPS System provides allows you to work online through short blackouts or safely
shut down during longer ones. Features 6 outlets (3 UPS & surge + 3
surge-only outlets),
diagnostic LEDs and a built-in serial port that works with optional PowerAlert
Software to provide automatic unattended shutdown. Built-in RJ11 jacks prevent
surges from damaging your modem/fax equipment. Up to 43 minutes typical
backup time, with $25,000 Ultimate Lifetime Insurance. Call (773) 869-1234 or http://www.triplite.com
FireWire, also known as IEEE 1394, is an industry standard for high-speed peripheral communication. With it you can daisychain up to 63 FireWire devices, and will transfer at 400Mbps. With Universal Serial Bus (USB) 1.x you can transfer up to 180Mbps, but with the new 2.0 you can transfer up to 480Mbps. With USB you can daisychain up to 127 devices.
APC has KVM devices with Automatic scanning feature, hot pluggable Operation, push button or keyboard switching, mouse reset, on screen display Capability, status indicator LED's, universal input voltage range, and video modes up to 1600 x 1200 at 72Hz. They have 4 and 8 port available. Call (800) 877-4080 or http://www.apcc.com
Bafo brought out USB 2.0 PCI cards for about $45. It has 5 ports (4 external and 1 internal). Call (732) 572-3338 or http://www.bafo.com
Belkin announced its new USB 2.0 high-speed 4-port hub (F5U221 - ESP $70). It compliments the Belkin USB 2.0 PCI card and all Belkin USB 2.0 compliant cables. It is backwards compatible with USB 1.1 devices. Check out their 7-port USB hub expandable to 14, 21, or more ports by stacking, without taking up additional desktop space. Belkin has FireWire PCI Cards, ComboCards and CarBus Adapters to add instant FireWire capabilities to your PC. The cards have 3 ports. Want more they also have FireWire Hubs with 4 and 6-Port Hubs. They transfer video as a perfect digital file copy, free from the risk of conversion loss. Included is video-editing software: MGI’s VideoWave™ III SE and PhotoSuite III SE. They also have a FireWire/USB ComboCard for PC $110 which gives you 3 FireWire ports (also internal and 2 external) and 2 USB ports. Call (800) 2BELKIN or http://www.belkin.com
GoldX with their stackable PowerCore system (each
sold separately) comes with a Surge Protector, Firewire (3 ports) , USB
Broadband Adapter, and USB hub (43 ports). The surge protector provides the
power for the series of products. Call (866) 24GOLDX or http://www.goldxproducts.com
IOGEAR introduces the first Dual Port USB 2.0 PCMCIA CardBus card ($100) along with that they have USB 2.0 PCI cards and MiniHubs each with 4 ports. They also have one PCI card with five ports on it for $59. In addition on to that they have a USB 2.0/Firewire Combo Card with 2 Firewire and 2 USB ports each. Want to transfer data between two computers? Then look at their SmartLink for hooking up between both computers USB ports. It will transfer at 6Mbps. Call (949) 428-1111 or http://www.iogear.com
Tripp Lite showed a cool looking USB hub the size of a
credit card with the connect sticking out the end. It had four ports and you
can buy an adaptor for assured power. Call
(773) 869-1234 or http://www.tripplite.com
USBgear has a motto of “if its USB and we don’t have it , it doesn’t exist”. From their catalog they do have everything from USB hubs to hard drives. They even have USB converters for PS2, printer cable, serial, IRDA, and SCSI. They also carrier some Firewire products such ad hard drives and CD ROM devices. Call (888) 850-9543 or http://www.usbgear.com
Click here for Review of video projectors shown at Comdex or here for home page
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