PCR 75, Decemeber

RETAIL SURVEY We bring you the results of our research from the frontline of the industry P15

COMPUTER & IT RESELLERS • RETAILERS • SYSTEM BUILDERS • DISTRIBUTORS • VENDORS

DECEMBER 2009 ISSUE 75

COMMENT Issue 75 December 2009 Incorporating

“If one thing is certain, it’s that we’ve seen a great deal of positive moves from the top tier technology firms” THE WORD ON THE STREET

PCR CONTACTS Editor

Andrew Wooden andrew.wooden@intentmedia.co.uk Staff Writer

Matt Grainger matt.grainger@intentmedia.co.uk Staff Writer

Nicky Trup nicky.trup@intentmedia.co.uk Editorial Production Manager

Helen French helen.french@intentmedia.co.uk Sub-Editor

Gemma Messina gemma.messina@intentmedia.co.uk Managing Editor

Lisa Foster lisa.foster@intentmedia.co.uk Executive Advertising Manager

Katie Rawlings katie.rawlings@intentmedia.co.uk Advertising Executive

Carly Bailey carly.bailey@intentmedia.co.uk Production Executive

Rosie McKeown rosie.mckeown@intentmedia.co.uk Designer

Kelly Styles kelly.styles@intentmedia.co.uk Publisher

Stuart Dinsey stuart.dinsey@intentmedia.co.uk

Editorial: 01992 535646 Advertising: 01992 535647 www.pcr-online.biz

IT’S BEEN a rough year by anyone’s standards. The jury is still out from the higher economic seers as to the full extent of the recession, whether it’s over yet, and if we’re in danger of reading too much into ‘green shoots’ too soon.

Some prominent economists proudly state the worst is over, while others claim we’ll still be in fiscal strife for years to come. We shouldn’t be surprised by this lack of consensus. If the crisis has taught us nothing else – aside from a whole new set of vocabulary to get across the concept ‘I’m skint’ – it’s that analysing and predicting the ebbs and flows of a capitalistic economy are far from an exact science.

If one thing is certain, it’s that we’ve recently seen a great deal of positive moves from the top tier technology firms: Microsoft kicked off its biggest ever product launch campaign with Windows 7, Apple posted barnstorming results, distribution giant Ingram Micro predicted a recovery for the industry sooner than analysts have stated, and Acer had a slew of consumer product launches.

As the results of PCR’s annual retail survey came in, it seemed that much of that positivity is trickling down to the frontline of the trade, with a whopping 75 per cent of respondents optimistic about business in 2010. The research is designed to be as representative as possible, providing a targeted cross section of the sector. We asked independent retailers, resellers and large-scale national chains what the biggest challenges were, what companies they valued the most, and whether they thought things were going to get better any time soon. The results make for interesting reading.

While most respondents confirmed business saw a downturn in 2009, the general tone of optimism for the year ahead is encouraging.

This time last year we were staring into the precipice of a full blown recession, and no one really knew what to expect. Sure, there have been casualties, but as we move into 2010 it doesn’t seem too presumptuous to see light at the end of the tunnel.

LAST CALL PCR - Total average monthly net circulation for January 1st to December 31st 2008: 12,766.

Intent Media is a member of the Periodical Publishers Associations PCR is published 12 times a year by Intent Media - Saxon House, 6a St.Andrew Street, Hertford, Hertfordshire SG14 1JA Fax: +44 (0)1992 535648. © Intent Media 2007 No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without prior permission of the copyright owners. Printed by Pensord.

You have just days to send us your nominations for the PCR Awards 2010, if you haven’t already. We’ve had a huge number of votes, so if you want to make sure you or a business you work with is recognised for the work it does, get in touch via the usual email address.

Andrew Wooden, Editor andrew.wooden@intentmedia.co.uk

SUBSCRIPTIONS UK £50 Europe: £60 Rest of World: £90. The international cost applies per subscription and covers airmail dispatch of 12 issues. To order your subscription via Visa, MasterCard, Amex Switch or Delta contact: pcr.subscriptions@c-cms.com or call 01580 883848.

Alternatively visit our website www.pcr-online.biz Subscriptions Manager: Hannah Short, Hannah.Short@intentmedia.co.uk

December PCR 3

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incorporating

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PCR Contents News 9

ISSUE 75 DECEMBER 2009

Mystery Shopper

Frontline Retail Focus 28 Mystery Shopper 30

Our shopper hits the streets of Bolton in search of a graphics tablet – money is no object, as long as the product is worth it

GfK analysis 39 Brigantia 79 TCA 80-81 ITACS/NASCR 84

30 PCR brings you the holiday closing times and contact details for key UK distributors so you don’t get caught out this festive season

Xmas closing

23 Hardware

Pages 37-54

GFK Cases, PSUs and Cooling

In the approach to one of the most challenging year-ends of the decade, Greg Allen looks at this year’s sales growth and decline

39

We talk to key industry figures about why they think these components are seeing stronger sales figures than ever

41 AMD Interview The company’s EMEA channel director Andrew Buxton talks to PCR about why he is confident in the revival of the desktop PC

www.pcr-online.biz

49

December PCR 5

Software

Pages 55-62

ESET Interview PCR talks to the security vendor’s UK CEO about how the firm got to where it is today and where it hopes to be in the future

57 Games We look at some of the newest PC titles, including Left 4 Dead 2, Saw: The Game and The Sims 3: World Adventures

Consumer Electronics

Pages 63-72

61

MARKETPLACE79

Company Profile: Bluepoint

82

Operations director Rizwan Datoo tells us about the company’s history, its success and its plans for the future

65

MP3 players and accessories We look at some of the latest audio gadgets on the market and the accessories that go with them

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71

Product Focus PCR looks at three of the newest devices, proving there’s more to the smartphone sector than the iPhone

MP News

74

A round-up of some of the latest product news

PCR Recommended

98

The Palm Pre and the Sony Vaio VPC-L11S1E/S

December PCR 7

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NEWS

PCR research reveals retail sector bullish as 2010 looms Our survey finds that retailers are optimistic about Christmas and the new year, despite this year’s recession

By Andrew Wooden

AN OVERWHELMING 75 per cent of respondents to PCR’s annual retail survey said they are confident about business in 2010, despite the damage the recession has done to the retail sector as a whole.

The targeted survey canvassed over 100 key independent retailers, resellers and national chains, in order to create an accurate cross section of the mood of the sector as we approach the lucrative Christmas season and the new year.

Although 45 per cent said that business in 2009 has been worse than last year (with 28 per cent claiming it has been better, and 27 per cent noticing no discernable change), the confidence towards the future highlights a general feeling that there is light at the end of the tunnel for the IT sector and the economy as a whole.

Windows 7 proved hugely popular among our respondents, with 63 per

KEY STATS • 45% said business was worse this year • 75% are confident about business in 2010 • 63% said Windows 7 was the highlight of 2009

“A remarkable 76 per cent thought Windows 7 would provide a boost to the industry”

cent choosing the launch as the highlight of the year. A remarkable 76 per cent also thought that the operating system would provide a boost to the industry.

The convergence between the telecoms and IT industries was also highlighted as having a positive

influence on retail, with 67 per cent claiming further integration would be a good thing.

In terms of the biggest problems facing the retail and reseller channels, opinion was split between supermarket incursions into the PC industry (35 per cent) and the recession (33 per cent).

Microsoft pushes touchscreen revolution SOFTWARE GIANT Microsoft has claimed ‘multi-touch’ technology will be ubiquitous across hardware price points and formats, a transition that could revolutionise the way the world uses PCs. The firm’s new initiative, which is essentially built around touchscreen technology that has been around for years, is an integral part of Windows 7, and the firm insists it won’t be limited to a few high end models.

“It is likely to find its way into many different form factors and types of notebooks, tablets, all-in-ones and peripherals such as monitors, meaning that customers have a great deal of choice in how they acquire

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“We are working closely with all parties to illustrate the new innovation that touch brings and how it can light up the user experience” Laurence Painell, Microsoft Laurence Painell

the technology with varying price points,” Laurence Painell, Windows OEM and WGA product manager told PCR.

Microsoft is also encouraging vendors to incorporate the required hardware into their products, in order to facilitate the new wave of touch-

capable computing. Key manufacturers such as Acer have already brought out ranges of touch-capable laptops, all-inones and monitors.

“There are several options open to manufacturers that want to include touch technologies,” Painell said. “We are working closely with all parties to illustrate the new innovation that touch brings and how it can light up the user experience.

“We have also produced a suite of touch apps that manufacturers can include on their PCs in order to enhance the experience whilst ensuring that touch was included into the core usability design of Windows, such as the taskbar and gestures.”

December PCR 9

NEWS

ZXxx

Interactive Ideas eyes global conquest Enfield-based distributor looks to expand its presence around the world with ambitious international plans New premises double workforce capacity Digital distribution first on the new agenda “The world is becoming increasingly flat. Many traditional routes to market are now being challenged and better quality, more cost-effective channels are emerging” Michael Breeze, Interactive Ideas

By Andrew Wooden

UK DISTRIBUTOR Interactive Ideas is looking to increase its influence across the globe with expansions into Asia and Europe, after doubling its workforce capacity with a move into new offices and the creation of a new training facility.

The ambitious plans come off the back of a barnstorming two years for the firm, in which it doubled in size and achieved record revenues of £16.2 million in the last financial year.

After announcing that it had “exciting plans for international expansion”, the firm told PCR that

the first move in the strategy concerns digital software distribution.

“The world is becoming increasingly flat with today’s communications and logistics. Many traditional routes to market are now being challenged and better quality, more cost-effective channels are emerging,” said marketing director Michael Breeze.

“Many of our customers and suppliers are emerging brands and are looking to use our experience across EMEA and APAC. Initially this is focused on software products that can be distributed digitally.”

The office expansion more than double’s the firm’s existing warehouse

space, and can also facilitate a doubling of the sales and marketing workforce to drive its growth plans.

Breeze claims the recent success has all be down to building solid relationships with the trade.

“In the last few years we have really focused on developing and working with the suppliers and customers where we have strong relationships.

We have spent the time to put the resources in place to really assist them in growing their own businesses and, with the recent economic climate, our strong partnerships, 15-year history and strong balance sheet have proven a good formula,” he said.

Gem, AMD, Kingston and Sapphire join PCR Awards sponsors DISTRIBUTOR Gem, memory firm Kingston, chip manufacturer AMD and graphics card vendor Sapphire have become sponsors of the PCR Awards 2010, which takes place at the Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington, London on Thursday March 25th 2010.

Gem has sponsored the Frontline category, while AMD and Sappire have become Gold Sponsors.

Kingston becomes Distribution Sponsor. The firms join EntaTech, Interactive Ideas, and Ingram Micro as supporters of the event.

The nomination period ends in just a few days time on November 27th. If you haven’t yet cast your vote, email it to Andrew.Wooden@intentmedia.co.uk.

“The PCR Awards are a great recognition of all the hard work being undertaken in our industry,” said

10 PCR December

“We’ve been really impressed by how many companies in the PC field have worked together to overcome the challenges the industry has faced and AMD is delighted to support the recognition of these standout firms”

Gold Sponsors

Andrew Buxton, AMD Frontline Category Sponsor

Andrew Buxton, AMD’s EMEA channel director. “We’ve been really impressed by how many systems integrators and other companies in the PC field have worked together to overcome the various challenges the industry has faced over the past 12

Vendor Category Sponsor

Distribution Category Sponsor

months, and AMD is delighted to support the recognition of many of these standout companies.”

Gem Creative’s head of marketing Neil Handa added: “Gem are very pleased to show our support for the PCR Awards, which have become an important event for the IT channel.

“We are looking forward to sponsoring the Frontline category and wish all the award finalists the very best of luck.”

Vendors and distributors are also represented by categories, alongside the prestigious Grand Prix award.

For further information or booking details and sponsorship opportunities, contact Katie Rawlings on +44 (0) 1992 535 647 or email Katie.Rawlings@intentmedia.co.uk.

www.pcr-online.biz

NEWS

NewsBytes PACKARD BELL TO LAUNCH RACING-THEMED LAPTOPS Nine-times Moto GP champion Valentino Rossi is set to sign a new range of Packard Bell laptops targeted at motorcycle racing fans.

The new line of notebooks and netbooks are currently being developed by Rossi’s graphic designer, Aldo Drudi. The machines will feature Rossi’s signature on the shell, and also bear his racing number, 46, or the sun and moon motif from his helmet.

Michael Breeze says the firm’s success is all down to sturdy relationships

PC for over-50s ‘is not patronising’ TV presenter defends new Linux-based machine designed for computer novices and the elderly A NEW PC for the older generation is not patronising, its cocreator Valerie Singleton has said.

TV presenter Singleton, best known for hosting Blue Peter in the 1970s, launched the SimplicITy last month. Aimed at computer novices, particularly the over50s, the machine has just six large-text buttons to access basic functions such as email and web browsing.

“There are older people who are totally conversant with computers and love them, and there are also younger people who find them a bit

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complicated,” Singleton told PCR. “It’s for people who aren’t familiar with computers at all. Why is it patronising to offer something to people that they can understand?”

Singleton, who has used a PC for almost ten years, admitted: “There are still things I don’t completely understand.

I’ve got a book that I call my computer book, which I check every time I need to do scanning or something,” she said.

The SimplicITy runs the Linux Mint operating system powered by Eldy, a software package that limits itself to the most basic tasks and, according to the firm, is virtually immune to malware.

SWINDON TO BE UK’S FIRST WI-FI TOWN Swindon Borough Council has teamed up with the private sector to become the UK’s first wireless town.

Digital City UK – a company 35 per cent owned by Swindon Borough Council – will install a wifi ‘mesh’ to give residents free internet access, but with limits on usage. The first phase of the Signal wifi network will be switched on in Highworth in early December, with the rest to be completed by the end of April.

INTERACTIVE TO DISTRIBUTE CTA GAMING PERIPHERALS Interactive Ideas has signed a distribution contract with CTA Digital as part of the specialist gaming vendor’s push into the UK market.

The US-based firm’s range includes accessories for DSi, PSP GO, Wii, PS3 and Xbox 360. The deal follows Interactive’s recent signings with AverMedia, Pair & Go and Rainbow.

SECURITY VENDOR SPONSORS GAMING TEAMS BullGuard has inked a deal to sponsor the Fragmasters online gaming teams at LAN events.

The first event following the agreement was i38, the UK’s largest LAN party, which took place last month. Fragmasters’ teams sported BullGuard branded competition wear and used BullGuard Gamer’s Edition security software on competition machines.

NORTON SOFTWARE TO COME ON SELECT PCS Symantec has signed two new agreements to make its Norton security products available on PC hardware. A 30-day trial of Norton Internet Security will come preloaded on Lenovo Think-branded machines, while a 30-day trial version of Norton Online Backup with 5GB of online storage will be available on select Acer products.

PNY OPENS PARTNER PORTAL PNY Technologies has created an information portal for its European sales network. The Partner Portal will provide 24-hour promotional materials and news, with sections including information on product ranges, marketing, customer service information, sales information and a mailing system that enables users to contact PNY. The firm specialises in the upgrades market – flash cards, components and graphics cards.

WINDOWS 7 USERS CAN DOWNLOAD BRANDED THEMES Microsoft has given the go-ahead for companies to advertise their goods on Windows 7. Users can download a selection of operating system themes based around brands such as Coca-Cola, Ferrari, 7Up and Ducati. These themes decorate the Windows 7 task bar, start screen, system tray and so on with the colours and logos of the brand. The downloads are optional and entirely free.

COMPUTER WORKERS ARE BRITAIN’S LEAST HEALTHY A new study has found that people who work in IT-related jobs are some of the unhealthiest in the UK. A survey of 1,734 working Britons found that IT workers exercised less than those in any other profession.

Overall, only 19 per cent of those working in and around desktop computers were meeting national guidelines on activity and health.

INTEL LAUNCHES HANDHELD TEXT READING DEVICE Intel has launched a device designed to give dyslexic and visually impaired people access to printed text. The Reader, which is around the size of a paperback book, converts printed text into digital text and reads it aloud to the user. It is designed to increase the independence of people who have trouble reading standard print, including those with visual impairments or learning difficulties.

December PCR 11

NEWS

Distree XXL looks to grow in 2010 Trade show aims to increase footprint on pan-European IT and consumer electronic distribution market Focus is on quality attendees and one-to-one talks rather than large-scale exhibitions

By Andrew Wooden

PARIS-BASED organiser Distree Events is looking to boost the prominence of its Distree XXl 2010 trade show, after signing up hundreds of distributors and rolling out new features for next year.

Taking place from February 8th to 11th in Monte Carlo, Monaco, the event spans the European IT distribution sector, with UK names such as Ingram Micro, EntaTech, and Westcoast set to attend.

It is expected to attract around 1,000 people, but the

organisers are keen to stress that high numbers aren’t important as it prefers to keep the list of attendees as tight as possible.

“We do not have people there collecting balloons and bags and wandering aimlessly from one cavernous hall to another,” said CEO Farouk Hemraj. “The amount of preresearch that goes into the distributor selection is phenomenal. The Distree XXL 2010 audience will comprise senior executives from EMEA’s 400 largest volume distributors operating in the ICT and CE arena,

Gem claims USB movie deal will create new sector DISTRIBUTOR Gem has said a recent deal with Paramount Pictures will provide a shot in the arm to digital content sales, as it looks to expand further into the sector.

The agreement will see the distributor shipping Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen and the new Star Trek film on USB sticks. The movies, which cost £19.99, can be watched on desktops, laptops, consoles and some Blu-ray players.

“The Star Trek and Transformers collector movies on USB will create a new category for digital content for e-tail and retail,” said Neil Handa, Gem Creative’s head of marketing. “These products create additional value when compared to simply downloading the digital movie. In addition, Gem worked closely with Paramount to design the packaging via our Gem Creative team and we are looking forward to building on this concept in future.”

rather than large exhibitions – a similar business strategy to fellow European trade show Retail Vision, which will be coming to the UK in May.

distributors as a result of meetings at Distree XXL. “We offer the maximum possible value to vendors and distributors for a minimal time

“Each year we see new distribution agreements happening between vendors and distributors as a result of meetings they had at Distree XXL” Farouk Hemraj, Distree Events

plus representatives from Europe’s top 100 e-tailers.”

The focus on the show is on one-to-one briefings,

Hemraj told PCR that the firm wants to expand the 2010 event with a number of new features: “Each year we see new distribution agreements happening between vendors and

away from the office. The satisfaction rates from delegates continue to climb each year. The way we achieve this is by positioning ourselves as an independent, vendorneutral event organiser.”

Lexmark takes on two new execs LEXMARK’S UK division has made two key appointments in a move aimed at strengthening the printing giant’s position in the channel.

Ken Owen has been hired as LVP channel development director. He joins Lexmark from print and document management provider Ricoh, where he was responsible for dealer development in the UK. He also has over 30 years’ experience in the copier sector.

Gary King has been appointed senior business manager for the SMB sales

channel. He previously spent over ten years in the business to business leasing industry, where he worked for a number of high profile banks. Part of King’s responsibility at Lexmark will be helping the firm gain market share in key B2B opportunities.

“The creation of these two roles will help Lexmark strengthen its relationship with reseller partners and enable them to gain a greater presence in the channel marketplace” said Marcus Harvey, UK channel sales director.

Top to bottom: new recruits Gary King and Ken Owen

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DOWNLOAD our latest magazine FREE Find out more about our award-winning range of products www.interactiveideas.com/corporate/CONSUMER_RETAIL Celebrating 15 Years of Interact ive Ideas www.interactiveideas.com

SOFTWARE AND PERIPHERALS FOR EDUCATION, ENTERTAINMENT AND BUSINESS

✆ 0208 805 1000

Authorised distributor for:

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Tel: 0208 805 1000 email: sales@interactiveideas.com web: www.interactiveideas.com For a full list of publishers and manufacturers that Interactive Ideas represent, visit www.interactiveideas.com

23,25,26 PCR75_revisionV2:Layout 1

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DISTRIBUTOR BUSINESS HOURS

Xmas closing times

It may well be a time of goodwill to all men, but that doesnt stop business from being done. PCR brings you the contact details and Christmas closing times (all dates inclusive) for the key UK channel distributors to ensure you’re not caught short this Yuletide...

Company Avnet Telephone 01344 662 000 Website ts.avnet.com/uk

Christmas Closing Times December 25th to December 28th, January 1st

Company Bluepoint Telephone 0844 571 8001 Website bluepoint.net

Christmas Closing Times December 24th to December 28th, December 31st to January 3rd

Company Blue Solutions Telephone 0118 9898 222 Website bluesolutions.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 24th from 14:00 to January 3rd

Company CCI Telephone 01423 704 700 Website ccidistribution.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 24th from 13:00 to December 28th, December 31st from 13:00 to January 1st

Company Computer 2000 Telephone 08700 603 344 Website computer2000.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 25th and December 26th, January 1st

Company Computer Gear Telephone 0121 503 0666 Website computergear.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 24th to January 3rd

>>> www.pcr-online.biz

December PCR 23

25% OFF SRP Kaspersky Anti-Virus

1 USER & 3 USER FREE Counter Top Display Unit available to order with this offer

Available til 23rd Dec 2009

NERO 9

1 USER - Single Price Av

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£16.84 le t

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For all our Winter sales offers call Veronica now on 0870 027 6519 or visit www.pcindie.com

© 1997-2009. Kaspersky Lab, Ltd. Kaspersky, Kaspersky Lab and Kaspersky Anti-Virus logos are registered trademarks of Kaspersky Lab. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners

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23,25,26 PCR75_revisionV2:Layout 1

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DISTRIBUTOR BUSINESS HOURS

>>> Company EntaTech Telephone 0333 101 1000 Website www.entaonline.com

Christmas Closing Times December 24th to January 3rd

Company ETC Telephone 0845 351 0979 Website etc-dist.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 25th to December 28th, January 1st

Company Gem Telephone 01279 822 800 Website gem.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 23rd from 16:00 to January 3rd

Company Ingram Micro Telephone 0871 973 3000 Website uk.ingrammicro.com

Christmas Closing Times December 24th from 15:30 to December 28th, December 31st from 15:30 to January 1st

Company Interactive Ideas Telephone 020 8805 1000 Website interactiveideas.com

Christmas Closing Times December 24th from 13:00 to December 28th, December 31st from 13:00 to January 1st

Company Interface Solutions Telephone 0845 356 3033 Website interfacesolutions.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 25th to December 28th, January 1st

Company Koch Media Telephone 0870 027 0985 Website kochmedia.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 24th from 13:00 to December 28th, December 31st from 13:00 to January 3rd

Company M2M Direct Telephone 0208 676 3030 Website m2m-direct.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 24th to January 3rd

Company Meroncourt Telephone 01462 680 060 Website meroncourt.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 24th to December 28th, December 31st from 16:00 to January 3rd

>>> www.pcr-online.biz

December PCR 25

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DISTRIBUTOR BUSINESS HOURS

>>>

widget

26 PCR December

Company Micro P Telephone 01256 707 070 Website micro-p.com

Christmas Closing Times December 24th to January 3rd

Company Midwich Telephone 01379 649 200 Website midwich.com

Christmas Closing Times December 24th from 13:00 to January 4th

Company Realtime Telephone 01480 435 881 Website realtimeonline.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 24th from 13:00 to January 4th

Company RET UK Telephone 01722 341 234 Website retuk.com

Christmas Closing Times December 25th to December 28th, January 1st

Company SJ Software Telephone 01282 865 500 Website sjsoftware.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 24th to December 28th, December 31st to January 3rd

Company Target Components Telephone 01977 739 300 Website targetcomponents.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 24th from 12:00 to January 3rd

Company Westcoast Telephone 0118 912 6000 Website westcoast.co.uk

Christmas Closing Times December 24th from 16:00 to December 28th, January 1st to January 3rd

Company Widget Telephone 01438 842 362 Website widget.com

Christmas Closing Times December 25th to December 28th, January 1st

Company VIP Computers Telephone 0871 622 7500 Website vip-computers.com/uk/ Christmas Closing Times Last

orders will be placed at 12:00 on Thursday 24th December and VIP will re-open at 09:00 on Monday 4th January until 19:00

www.pcr-online.biz

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28 29 PCR75_final

3/12/09

10:04

Page 1

RETAIL FOCUS

TOP SELLERS TEACH A VALUABLE LESSON ONE OF the most obvious aspects of this month’s results is the complete lack of change in many of our top five charts.

Once again, Norton 360 sits in the number one position in the security chart that it has occupied since this section was initiated in September.

While it has been praised for its allencompassing approach to security, one of the key selling points for the software is the license that allows for up to three installs – something that will appeal to the majority of households, which have more than one PC. Price and performance appear to dominate the hardware categories.

The mid-range PNY GeForce 9600 GTS, praised for its solid performance at a relatively low price point, remains in pole position from last month.

Another Sapphire card, the HD4650, gives the OEM four months of having its products in the top five bestsellers, while an unusual new entry is PNY’s high-end XLR8 GeForce GTS 250, which carries a range of the latest features including full DX10 support and CUDA, and is being offered by the multiples at around £125.

Acer’s AS5536 is the top selling laptop again in a chart that is seems to emphasise value for money. Dell’s Inspiron 1545 is currently seeing a television advertising campaign, and is being offered by PC World with a £100 discount. The eMachine EM525 is part of Acer’s budget brand range.

It is capable of handling most online media content as well as some older games, and carries a suggested retail price of £392. matt.grainger@intentmedia.co.uk

28 PCR December

From the Frontline

This month infinite FM has surveyed 450 stores, both multiple and independent, gathering the required information to bring the top sellers and opinions from the grass roots of the channel...

DESKTOPS 1

PACKARD BELL iMedia D3519

2

COMPAQ CQ2200

3

ACER ASPIRE X1300

4

ACER ASPIRE X3200

5

HP S3821P

LAPTOPS 1

ACER AS5536

2

DELL 1545

3

EMACHINE E525

4

HP COMPAQ CQ61 222SA

5

ADVENT ROMA 1000

GRAPHICS CARDS 1

PNY Geforce 9600GT

2

PNY XLR8 GEFORCE GTS 250

3

PNY NVIDIA GEFORCE 9800 GT

4

ATI SAPPHIRE HD4650

5

NVIDIA GEFORCE 9500GT

www.pcr-online.biz

28 29 PCR75_final

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RETAIL FOCUS Infinite FMS is a specialist field marketing provider delivering bespoke solutions purely for the technology sector. With over ten years experience, we understand how to support manufacturers with the execution of their below-the-line campaigns, ensuring brands are reinforced, product messages are effectively delivered and sales objectives are achieved. Our services include product training, compliance & data capture, promotion & demonstration activity, Mystery Shopping & Roadshows. To learn more about how we can support you, please contact us on 01793 686504 or visit our website at www.infinitefms.com

Yes 36%

No 51% Don’t know 13%

ARE SMART PHONES ABOUT TO GO MASS MARKET? Perhaps it’s the influence of the notoriously ‘closed system’ iPhone that accounts for over half of our respondents feeling pessimistic about the prospects for the smartphone segment. Whatever the reason, only 26 per cent feel that they have any prospect for the mass market.

KEY COMMENTS During the canvassing of retail store staff, we looked to obtain real honest feedback about key themes running through the IT industry, below are some of the comments: “People are not looking at the Memory or Hard Drive capacity; they seem to be searching for products that are cheap and fit their purpose.”

“We are finding that consumers are not buying Windows 7 software, but buying laptops with it on instead, which is great for our sales figures.”

“Laptop sales are good despite the recession.”

MICE 1

LOGITECH V550

2

LOGITECH M205

3

MICROSOFT OPTICAL 3000

4

PC LINE WBB2

5

IT WORKS MCO 01

KEYBOARDS 1

LOGITECH LX710

2

LOGITECH EX110

3

MICROSOFT WIRELESS 6000

4

MICROSOFT 2000 COMFORT CURVE

5

MICROSOFT 3000 DIGITAL MEDIA

ANTI VIRUS SOFTWARE 1

NORTON 360

2

NORTON INTERNET SECURITY

3

KASPERSKY INTERNET SECURITY 2010

4

NORTON INTERNET SECURITY 2009 PREMIER EDITION

5

AVG INTERNET SECURITY 8.5

www.pcr-online.biz

“The market is definitely moving towards Netbooks, we estimate it to be a big seller at Christmas time.”

“Anti virus is getting to be very popular now, we have customers visiting our store just to buy this.

I think it will be a big seller after Christmas with the increase in laptop sales.”

“The laptops in the £300£500 range are the most popular.”

“Anti virus is selling well for us, people are more aware of the importance of being safe.”

“Touch screen seems to be a favourite at the moment on desktops.”

December PCR 29

RETAIL FOCUS MYSTERY SHOPPER

Bolton Our Mystery Shopper is out around Bolton looking to buy a graphics tablet, eager to see what staff recommend and if they know much about them. Money isn’t too much of a concern as long as the product is good and well supported...

PC WORLD THE STORE STAFF were busy in numerous locations as I entered the PC World store, and from the central aisle I could see the graphic tablet section was clearly signposted. On display were two Trust tablets (priced £34.24 and £49.99), four different Wacom tablets (ranging from £59.99 to £169.99), and the most expensive was a Wacom Intuos tablet, which was £199.99. In support of the display a 32-inch screen was connected to the £79.99 Wacom Bamboo, enabling customers to try the product.

I spent at least ten minutes in the area playing around with the demo unit before I wandered back to the centre of the store and approached

30 PCR December

two staff members and asked what the difference was between some of the products on display.

I asked one of the employees why the Wacom Intuos was a lot more expensive than the majority of the tablets. He explained that it has customisable buttons, is top of the range and has Corel Draw included as well. When I asked if the cheaper models included the software, the employee wasn’t sure so I asked if there was any literature I could take with me. Less than five minutes later, the employee supplied me with four different types of specs. He pointed out the description and then pointed to the section that told you what was in the box. I thanked him for his time and left.

www.pcr–online.biz

RETAIL FOCUS MYSTERY SHOPPER

Turn the page for more Mystery Shopper results

>>>

CURRYS

Unfortunately there wasn’t enough information on the specs. I could see Photoshop was included in the Wacom Bamboo Fun Medium Graphics Tablet, Wacom Bamboo Fun Pen Touch Medium Graphics Tablet and the Wacom Intuos 4 Small Pen Tablet, but none said they included Corel Draw.

The shopping experience was good – aided by the store layout, the excellent range of products and the great demo unit. I was expecting PC World to have the best SCORE variety, although the information given was not enough to sell me the product.

8/10

www.pcr–online.biz

AFTER ENTERING the store and walking around the PC and electronics section in search of graphics tablets, I realised it was best to ask for some assistance in finding them.

I wandered over to the customer service desk where a young man soon approached me, asking if he could help. I explained my plight and we set off to the PC section to review the products available.

The two graphics tablets available were placed on the bottom shelf next to a multitude of computer mice. Both products were Wacom Bamboo units displayed in brightly coloured boxes. I turned to the employee and said: “What is the difference between the two – is it just the colour of the box?” He proceeded to read and compare the back of both boxes and then said: “I think it’s a difference in size and software that is included. The blue boxed unit is the pen and touch version and includes Adobe Photoshop, whereas the green boxed tablet isn’t touch compatible and just features the pen.” There were no price tags on display so I asked what each tablet cost, and he said: “I’ll go and look them up for you. The shelves are being redressed today so the labels are changing. Sorry, I won’t be long.”

He was only gone a few moments. He said: “The entry one is £59.99 and the other one – which included the pen and touch features, costs £79.99.” He continued and said: “I have never used one of these. When they first came out they weren’t accurate enough. I don’t know how good they are now. I presume they are good because people buy them and don’t bring them back.” I thanked the member of staff for his advice and said I would have a think about which one I wanted.

The experience in Currys was not quite what I expected.

Although it was a large store and part of the DSGi group, the range available was much smaller than PC World.

The service I received was friendly and helpful, but the information was SCORE gleaned from the rear of the box and the final backward compliment was very odd.

6/10

December PCR 31

RETAIL FOCUS MYSTERY SHOPPER

This Mystery Shop was conducted by infinite Field Marketing Solutions, a leading provider of field marketing services to the technology sector.

The solutions provided include Training, Market Research, Mystery Shopping, Demonstration Days, Roadshows, Merchandising and Compliance & Data Capture.

Visit our website for details and to request a Case Study.

CURRYS DIGITAL

ZEN COMPUTERS

COMET

ON ENTERING this Currys Digital store, which was situated on the main street in Bolton town centre, I only just got past the alarm barriers when a young member of staff approached me. She was dressed in the normal uniform of Currys Digital sales assistants and asked how she could help.

LOCATED ON a business park in Salford, the store was filled with computers and electrical equipment.

A gentlemen approached me and asked how he could help. I explained my plight and he said: “I can’t give you one today, but I can order you one for tomorrow.”

He gave me a demonstration and said: “This is a Wacom graphics tablet. It’s A4 size and is easy to use.

It has a pen so you can draw, and is great if you have to trace designs as it has a built-in transparent sheet.”

I asked the price of the tablets and was told: “It depends on which size you want. This A4 one is around £150 – but I’ve had it for 15 years so it’s not like you need to renew it once you’ve bought it. If you give me your email address I can send you the list of prices for each tablet.” I gave him my details, thanked him for his help and left the shop.

I received an email, as promised, containing a price list. In his email he said there were two different types of Wacom Tablets: the entry level Bamboo and the higher end Intuos. The prices are as follows:

AS I ENTERED the Comet store, I was greeted straight away by a smiling member of staff who appeared to be eager to help.

The employee’s genuine optimism filled me with confidence that I would find what I needed in store.

She turned to me and said: “How can I help you today?” I explained that I was looking for graphics

“The employee was very attentive and helpful as she suggested some alternative stores for me to visit. In the end, this visit proved unsuccessful and disappointing” I explained my desire for a graphics tablet and she ushered me to follow her. She said: “Sometimes we do get the odd tablet in.” After checking a few shelves she said she was very sorry but they didn’t seem to have any in stock right now.

She continued and said: “You could try our bigger store on the retail park or PC World, but there are no other stores in the town centre that will sell them.”

The market for graphic tablets is not as large as PC mice; however, it woud have been useful to have units on display to drive interest.

The employee was very attentive and helpful as she suggested some alternative stores for me to visit, yet as expected they were both SCORE in the same DSGi group.

In the end, this visit proved unsuccessful and disappointing.

5/10

32 PCR December

Bamboo Fun A6 plus Pen USB Mac/Win – £74 Bamboo Fun A5 plus Pen USB Mac/Win – £140 Intuos 4 Small USB Mac/Win – £174 Intuos 4 Medium USB Mac/Win – £286 Intuos 4 Large USB Mac/Win – £373 The visit was very good. The service was friendly and there was great enthusiasm for the products. While the store didn’t have an immediate SCORE range available in comparison to PC World, Zen Computers could have ordered it for me, with next day delivery.

9/10

“Although Comet didn’t have the product I was seeking, I was happy with the overall customer service I received as the member of staff was friendly and gave me an appropriate recommendation” tablets. Unfortunately, her optimism soon disappeared as she uttered the all too familiar sentence: “I’m sorry but we don’t have them in store.” I was extremely disappointed as I expected Comet to have at least one or two in stock. The friendly employee said: “I think your best bet would be to go to PC World in the retail park at the other end of town or you could probably get a better deal if you tried online.” I thanked her for her time and left the store.

Although Comet didn’t have the product I was seeking, I was happy with the overall customer service I received as the SCORE member of staff was friendly and gave me an appropriate recommendation.

5/10

www.pcr–online.biz

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Sales: 0871 622 7500 www.vip-computers.com/uk © Copyright VIP Computer Centre Limited. 2009. Information correct at time of publication E&OE

Gold Sponsors

Frontline Category Sponsor

Vendor Category Sponsor

Distribution Category Sponsor

Thursday March 25th Royal Garden Hotel, Kensington, London

Categories Frontline Awards • Independent Retailer • High Street Chain • Online Retailer • Store Manager of the Year • Service & Support • Value Added Reseller

Vendor Awards • Hardware Manufacturer • Software Publisher • Specialist Vendor • Gadget of the Year • Campaign of the Year Grand Prix

Distribution Awards • Marketing and PR Team • Sales Team • Specialist Distributor • Distributor of the Year

For more information on trade tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please email Katie.Rawlings@intentmedia.co.uk or call 01992 535647

SPONSORED BY

Hardware PCR’s monthly look at recent developments in the hardware market

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

P 41

CASES, PSUS AND COOLING We talk to industry figures about why these components are seeing stronger sales figures than ever

p 39

p 49

GFK

AMD

Greg Allen compares this year’s Christmas prospects with 2008

EMEA channel director Andrew Buxton tells PCR about the revival of the desktop PC

HARDWARE ANALYSIS

The season to be cheerful?

With the end of the year drawing closer, the IT market is set to face a difficult time, but is there a bright side? GfK’s Greg Allen takes a look at sales growth and decline since 2008 and compares it to this year...

“The IT retail landscape may well have changed since 2008.

However, with the continued fastpaced development of IT devices and services, there is ample opportunity to capitalise this year” Greg Allen, GfK

The graph compares growth and decline between sales value and retail growth rates in the IT market

www.pcr–online.biz

THE IT RETAIL sector is preparing for one of its most challenging year-ends in the last 15 years. So far, we have seen sales across all product groups fall by almost four per cent from January to August 2008 to the same period this year. This has been compounded by consumers tightening their expenditure on goods and services, and there is now an obvious degree of uncertainty about how this Christmas will play out in light of this. However, for the IT market there are some encouraging signs that it may not turn out to be as bad as some expect.

When comparing January to September 2009 against the same period last year, the IT retail market recorded a 4.1 per cent growth. And in

value, a low, yet surprising, growth of 1.2 per cent. A large proportion of this year’s growth is due to development of key product areas. For example, the continuous success of mobile broadband has given rise to the logical growth of USB mobile modems.

Furthermore, netbook sales have continued to progress. If we look further, the connection between these categories is apparent. Where last year only one modem was purchased for every three laptops sold, this year it stretches to one for every two laptops purchased. This clearly indicates there should be some opportunity over this Christmas to increase attachment ratios on mobile broadband and laptops.

Another category which has seen good growth in this turbulent year is storage.

Network Attached Storage devices (NAS) with media and external HDD have both seen growth on last year. NAS with media has seen a growth rate of 60 per cent on September 2008. External HDDs have seen growth of 17 per cent over the same time frame. With key developments in the industry surrounding media storage and network storage solutions, there are likely to be good opportunities this Christmas and certainly into 2010.

There are other positives to be taken out of the IT retail sector. E-Assistants are showing good value and volume growth, and with recent announcements in the retail sector, this Christmas could see some positive results from increased outlet participation and distribution.

Software’s another area which has seen growth on last year with recent releases of new 2010 security ranges coupled with new operating system launches.

The IT retail landscape may well have changed since December 2008. However, with the continued fast-paced development of IT devices and services, there is ample opportunity to capitalise this year. It should also be remembered that while some consumers have closed their purse strings, there are still almost 29 million people employed in the UK and those people may hold the key to making IT a merry Christmas.

December PCR 39

CONTACTS

HARDWARE CASES, PSUS AND COOLING

A One Distribution: 0161 763 3633 Bluepoint: 0844 571 8001 Computer2000: 0870 060 0012 EntaTech: 0333 101 1000

[

Realtime Distribution: 01480 435881 VIP Computers: 0871 622 7500

THERMALTAKE EVO BLUE 750W SRP: £99 Thermaltake claims this PSU’s oversized 14cm ball bearing fan dramatically reduces overall PC noise, while active power factor correction reduces heat build-up and energy loss. The Evo Blue also features modular cable sockets with blue LEDs and five user-adjustable LED environmental lighting effects Distributor: VIP

Open Case Although the desktop sector is reputed to be in a state of decline, as consumers try to find cheaper ways to improve their hardware, the component market is as healthy as ever. Matt Grainger talks to key players in the channel and takes a look at some of the cases, power supply units and cooling that are integral component sales…

“You’d expect customers to take an interest in upgrades during a recession, which is a really great situation for component retailers and the channel in general” Paul Cubbage, Target Components

www.pcr-online.biz

THE DESKTOP market is tricky to read. Market analysts tell us that the segment is declining, with preassembled PC shipments falling compared to ever-rising notebook sales.

However, an alternative picture is painted by component manufacturers and retailers, who say that these factors have not had the hugely negative effect that was predicted.

A number of retailers and vendors have said that although sales of preassembled units may have dropped, the market for components and upgrades is a strong as ever, if not stronger. This

raises the possibility that most consumers are choosing to upgrade or self build their computers – an activity which is considerably harder for analysts to track and quantify, but no less important.

“We haven’t seen a significant drop in sales for components,” observes Target Components managing director Paul Cubbage. “As you’d expect, components are a key part of our business, and on average we’re up by around 45 to 50 per cent on last year.”

When asked whether a rise in component sales for upgrades and

self-building was impacting sales of pre-assembled PCs, Cubbage responds positively: “You’d expect customers to take an interest in upgrades during a recession, which is a really great situation for component retailers and the channel in general. For us – and we might not be the best bellwether for the industry as we’ve had a really good year – we’re seeing a lot of interest in memory, hard disk drives and motherboards.

“If customers are moving away from pre-assembled units towards repair and

>>>

December PCR 41

]

HARDWARE CASES, PSUS AND COOLING

[

[ [

COOLER MASTER ELITE 334 NVIDIA EDITION SRP: £44.85

AKASA AK-PT050FG-BK SRP: £55.95

AKASA APACHE SRP: £12.95

]

According to Akasa, this fan’s ‘S-flow’ blades supply 30 per cent more airflow than a standard fan at the same speed. The fan also creates more focused airflow, providing blind spot cooling, making it an ideal solution for a case or heatsink fan. The hydrodynamic bearings claim to extend the life of the fan and enhance noise reduction

]

Distributor: Bluepoint

This ‘eco-friendly’ PSU has active power factor correction and an efficiency of over 80 per cent. The 12cm fan has intelligent autothermal fan speed control to provide precise cooling and silent operation. This unit is PCIe2.0 specification ready, making it compatible with advanced graphics cards

]

This gaming chassis features an Nvidia-themed side panel with a mechanical design that includes integrated keyholes for security locks. The fully meshed front panel body and 120mm rear fan ventilate while maintaining a silent cooling solution. The built-in front air filter is washable

Distributor: Bluepoint

Distributor: A One Distribution

[

AKASA FREEDOM TOWER SRP: £34.44

]

[

The Freedom Tower is a multiplatform CPU cooler combining four nickel-plated copper heat pipes with direct contact technology. The white LED 12cm fan with pulsewidth modulation gives a quiet performance with subtle illumination, while the aluminium fins provide rapid heat dissipation

ANTEC NINE HUNDRED TWO SRP: €130 (approx £116)

]

The follow on to Antec’s popular Nine Hundred gaming case, the Nine Hundred Two features a perforated front panel with blue LED fan control knobs, built-in washable air filters, and a cooling system with up to six variable-speed fans and eight expansion slots Distributor: Computer 2000

Distributor: Bluepoint

>>>

upgrades, that can only be a good thing, as I think it’s safe to say that a lot of those companies that make them, don’t really do much for the channel.”

VIP’s product manager, Matt Parrish, has also seen a move away from ready-assembled desktops: “There has been a shift to laptops, but a great proportion of laptop sales are coming from the consumers who were

previously buying systems directly from the likes of Dell, so it’s actually been good news for the UK channel.”

EntaTech product manager Richard Dolman reports that many customers are taking notice of the importance of cases and PSUs in an effort to make the most of their home computers.

He comments: “Generally we are doing very well in the enthusiast market at the moment. However, there are more

people taking the media centre concept seriously too, and this market is looking at the noise from their case and PSU combination.

“When looking at a good PSU and case, the user is able to control the air flow through the case and maybe overclock the CPU. This offers the power user extra performance at little to no extra cost as long as they have good cooling.”

Although any discussion about components inevitably focuses on the ‘holy trinity’ of motherboard, processor and graphics card, other parts, such as the case, power supply and cooling, are equally important to the running of a computer.

“The core to any system is the case you house your components in, and the power supply used to run your whole

>>>

HARDWARE CASES, PSUS AND COOLING

[

ANTEC SKELETON SRP: £139

[

]

COOLER MASTER ELITE 360 SRP: £28.74

]

The Elite 360 comes with an adjustable Cooler Master logo, allowing it to be presented in either horizontal or vertical positions. The front panel PSU vent provides ventilation to maintain constant cooling, while the tool-free drive bays enable a quick setup. The case is compatible with ATX and micro ATX motherboards

The Skeleton’s unique design allows for maximum airflow, and features a front fan and a three-speed top fan with multicoloured LED. The component trays are layered for convenience, and the case also has rack-mount side rails.

The Skeleton contains four drive bays and seven expansion slots

Distributor: A One Distribution

Distributor: EntaTech

[

ANTEC BASIQ BP-430 SRP: £31.80

]

[

The Domino liquid cooling system offers three operation settings, ranging from quiet to over-clocking performance modes. It is the only cooler with an integrated display for system status as well as audible alerts if attention is required, while the micro-controller automatically regulates performance for continuous protection Distributor: Realtime Distribution

Distributor: EntaTech

>>>

machine,” says Target Components’ purchasing manager, Kelly Coxon. “Investing in a good quality and reliable power supply is invaluable to the speed and efficiency of the general running of your system. Investing in superior cooling and power will allow your graphics card to perform to its maximum potential, while giving you the option to upgrade without causing a drain on your system. Of course, avoiding any chance of overheating problems is essential.”

Overheating can be a key factor in a computer’s performance, especially when high demands are placed on a system. Cooling is therefore an

44 PCR December

]

COOLIT DOMINO SRP: £64.99

This power supply unit is aimed at entry-level power users. The quiet-running fan keeps noise to a minimum, while the dual 12V rails provide the system with improved stability

integral, but often overlooked, aspect of a balanced machine.

“Any system’s performance will suffer as the temperature of the

“Effective cooling requires a combination of effective component coolers, cases with good thermal management that allow heat to escape,

“The market can be broadly split into two categories: Those who want to make their systems run quietly, and those who want their systems to run cooler to improve performance. And the PC as a media centre is becoming more popular” Matt Parrish, VIP components increases,” says Parrish.

“This is especially true when overclocking, which is a battle between performance and heat. The more you can cool your components, the higher you can overclock them.

and efficient PSUs that don’t waste electricity by turning it into heat.”

The key to making and selling many of these items, as with anything else, is education. The average customer may not be aware of the effect that a good

case, PSU or cooling system can have on the performance of their PC. Fortunately, issues that previously were an accepted drawback of PC ownership – such as noise and power consumption – are increasingly being challenged by a wider, more discerning customer base.

“The market can be broadly split into two categories: those who want to make their systems run quietly and those who want their systems to run cooler to improve performance,” Parrish says. “The PC as a media centre is becoming more and more popular, so good cooling is vital; no one wants to watch a Blu-ray DVD on their system with a

>>>

www.pcr-online.biz

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7HO VDOHV#HQWDJURXS FRP

THE CHANNEL

AWARDS

2009

SHORTLISTED

2009

HARDWARE CASES, PSUS AND COOLING

[

CORSAIR H50 SRP: £59.99

]

The Corsair Cooling Hydro Series H50 CPU Cooler uses liquid cooling for a higher over-clocking performance, but the compact, closed-loop system takes up less room than a traditional liquid cooler. It also features a copper CPU cooling plate and an integrated pump and reservoir sealed for improved leakage protection Distributor: Computer2000

[ [

CORSAIR HX1000W SRP: £174.99

]

This power supply features six PCI-Express connectors for powering multiple high-end graphics cards, and two EPS12V connectors for dual CPU configurations. The dual transformer, dual rail design allows for optimum load balancing for greater performance and stability, while the industrial-grade primary, secondary and solid state capacitors provide a longer lifespan than traditional components

KINGSTON HYPERX COOLING FAN SRP: £39.99

]

This fan has been designed specifically for use with Kingston HyperX memory modules to improve performance.

It uses minimal power and is compatible with both standard and taller Kingston memory modules.

Noise is kept to a ‘whisper-quiet’ 25 DBA Distributor: EntaTech

Distributor: Computer 2000

[

]

[

THERMALTAKE ELEMENT G SRP: £99

The Element G is designed for gaming, with a colour-shift fan that changes to six different colours with adjustable speed that can be set to performance mode or silent mode.

The case has 12 drive bays

THERMALTAKE ISGC-200 SRP: £28.50

]

The fan is designed to reduce air turbulence and friction, making for a silent operation, while the copper and aluminium base enhances cooling performance and enables the ISGC-200 to efficiently transfer heat from the CPU directly to the sawtooth dissipation fins

Distributor: VIP

Distributor: VIP

“Liquid tends to be a lot quieter and allows for cooler temperatures, but it’s generally more expensive. Air is simple to install, but does suffer some limitations when overclocking” Iain Bristow, Asus

46 PCR December

>>>

noisy fan in the background. Gamers form a significant part of the market as they look to push performance to the limit; this is where the price tickets are high.

We’ve seen incredible growth in recent years in this market on brands such as Thermaltake and Antec.”

Asus’ technical PR and component product marketing manager, Iain Bristow, highlights the benefits of spending a little more on a good case, cooling or power supply: “Liquid tends to be a lot quieter and allows for cooler temperatures, but it’s generally more expensive. Air, on the other hand, is quite simple to install, but does suffer some limitations when overclocking.

Cool components with a steady supply of power definitely last longer.”

For Chris Elt, CoolIT’s UK sales manager, the future of PC cooling lies in liquid solutions – his company has developed a sealed liquid cooling system for high performance systems.

He says: “All computer components like to run as cool as possible. This is one of the reasons extreme overclockers use dry ice or liquid nitrogen to bring temperatures down way under zero – just to get more performance.

“Keeping computer components cool also makes them run more efficiently. As they get hotter, processors will throttle their performance, meaning they utilise

the same amount of power but cannot perform as well.”

Parrish also highlights the importance of a good power supply unit, as a faulty or misapplied PSU can very quickly render a PC unusable: “Most users are unaware that the cheap entry-level PSU in their system is actually costing them a fortune in wasted electricity. Some PSUs convert less than 50 per cent of the electricity they use into power for the PC. Not only is this bad for the environment, but it’s also wasting money. This wasted energy has to be converted into something, and often that will be heat, which then requires a noisy fan to remove it from the components.”

www.pcr-online.biz

WELCOME TO HOLLYWOOD!

A NERVE-RACKING ADVENTURE!

KEEP THE FAITH!

VISIONS OF GOLD!

Mastertronic continues its assault on the popular casual and hidden object game market with four top quality titles and is actively looking to sign up more casual content. All four titles are now available to order.

For all sales enquiries please contact Luca Ponzetta on +44 (0)20 7502 4450 or by email to luca.ponzetta@mastertronic.com

www.mastertronic.com

For all development and publishing enquiries contact Neil McKenna on +44 (0)20 7502 4461 or by email to neil.mckenna@mastertronic.com

HARDWARE AMD

Forward

Vision After revamping its partner programme and introducing a new system of classifications for its components, AMD is taking the desktop market very seriously. Do they know something we don’t? Matt Grainger talks to EMEA channel director Andrew Buxton to find out…

THOSE WHO have their eye on the channel may have noticed a shift in the way AMD deals with its partners.

The components vendor has amalgamated its various divisions into one unit and has initiated its Vision strategy, which aims to simplify sales for retailers.

The recently revamped Fusion partner programme has seen the disparate partner programmes for different products – CPUs, GPUs and chipsets – brought together to form a single entity, one that aims to bring a stable platform to AMD’s partners.

AMD’s Vision scheme is divided into Vision, Premium Vision and Ultimate Vision categories – catering

www.pcr-online.biz

for the lower, middle and higher ends of the market respectively. They aim to create clearer guides for customers who want to know what kind of performance to expect from a machine without having to familiarise themselves with the nomenclature of components.

AMD’s EMEA channel director, Andrew Buxton, feels that such measures are necessary, especially for the desktop segment, as the channel has a much greater participation in sales of desktops and components, than in single unit notebook sales.

“I guess if you step back and look at the bigger picture, notebooks are largely the

>>>

December PCR 49

HARDWARE AMD

>>>

territory of the multinationals,” he tells PCR. “Netbooks, nettops – a lot of the emerging Chinese and Taiwanese manufacturers are building these devices really cheap and they fulfil their slice of the market.

“What does seem to be happening – to me, and this is a personal comment – is that the multi-nationals seem to be losing interest in the desktop segment.

All the new factories they’re building are notebook factories and that makes sense from their point of view.

Increasingly I see the desktop, and the SMB and consumer markets – so anything apart from true commercial and corporate segments – as really being owned by the channel.”

The phrase ‘owned by the channel’ appears to be an observation on the way computers are used and re-used by the consumer, who will often simply upgrade their current system or buy a new one to spec, and pass the old system on to friends or family members. Most often it is an independent retailer who provides the advice, expertise and products required for such an arrangement.

“Some people would buy all the components and build it themselves, but not everyone’s that confident, so it is at that point that the resellers are re-emerging,” continues Buxton.

“Suddenly, the retailer’s turned into a system builder again. People might say ‘I want that PC, but I can’t afford it, can you build it for me?’ and the retailer builds it to spec. So increasingly what we see happening is that people want a nice solid home family PC, and they’ll build a new one and pass on the old – this is a market we see as really strong at the moment.

“I think this is rightly perceived as the best value way of getting what you want. I think people across Europe are going for value, instead of just buying a brand and then finding out it’s not quite what they want and having to add components later.”

Buxton also contests figures that indicate that the desktop segment is in decline. While shipments of preassembled desktop PCs have fallen, this is not to say that the overall use and demand for desktops has declined at the same rate; in fact, Buxton claims that the demand for desktop components has not been significantly affected.

50 PCR December

AMD headquarters in California

“I don’t see netbooks as a threat to the desktop.

It almost drives the business, because the cheaper or more vulnerable your portable device becomes, the more important it is to have a solid base for all your data” Andrew Buxton, EMEA

Stickers, like the ones below, can be seen on PCs to give guidance to consumers about their components

“During the recession, this time last year, we were all quite concerned – we didn’t know how bad it could get,” explains Buxton. “Q1 actually didn’t turn out so bad, Q2 turned out stronger than expected and Q3 was very strong.

“Our Q3 results are there for anyone to look at, so I’m not going to go into that here, but just as a general, non-specific comment, unit-wise things have been quite a bit stronger than we previously thought, so the challenge is more in terms of availability – making sure that we have enough stock to meet demand – than trying to make sales, especially at the entry level.

That has actually gone better than expected.”

In addition to this, Buxton claims that the increasing demand for netbooks and other mobile internet capable devices is actually driving more requests for desktops.

“The higher end market at the moment is really fragmented. People want portability, so they need some kind of internet access device – whether it’s a smartphone, netbook or high end notebook,” he observes.

“Everyone needs some degree of connectivity and portability, but people have more than one PC in the house. They might have a notebook, but many people have a family desktop as well, as a central depository for important family documents that relate to everyone in the household.

“So, I don’t see netbooks or net-tops as a threat to the desktop. It almost drives the desktop business, because the cheaper, more throw-away or more vulnerable your portable device becomes, the more important it is to have a solid base for all your data.

“And there are so many applications now aside from gaming that people are interested in having a PC for – communications, media storage and sorting, for example – and an iPod isn’t much use without a PC, so there are many different applications that still drive the need for desktops.”

It’s clear that AMD sees the channel, and the desktop segment in particular, as being much stronger than analysts’ figures would lead us to think. The channel, as ever, is key to the continued health of this traditionally core market.

“The channel tends to be more resilient, and tends to be able to react and adapt quicker than some of the larger companies, so wherever the opportunities are, people seem to be able to move really quickly with it,” concludes Buxton.

“People have been forecasting the demise of the channel for 15 years, but it’s as strong as ever. This can be seen from the fact that even our competitors are keen to keep working with the channel as well.

“However, AMD is probably seen as more friendly to the channel and that’s a reputation that we’d like to keep.”

www.pcr-online.biz

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Software PCR’s monthly look at recent developments in the software market

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

p 57

ESET The security vendor’s UK CEO tells PCR how the company got to where it is today and where it hopes to be in the near future

p 61

GAMES We give a round-up of some of the latest PC titles, including Left 4 Dead 2, Lego Indiana Jones 2: The Adventure Continues, Saw: The Game and The Sims 3: World Adventures

What we reallly prote ect, is yourr cusstom merrs The leaner, faster, superior computer protection.

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®

SOFTWARE ESET

ESET for security Since 1992, Slovakian security vendor ESET has grown to see its products sold in 160 countries around the world and has enjoyed a recent period of strong growth. Matt Grainger talks to UK chief executive officer Paul Brook about the company and the security landscape…

FOUNDED IN Bratislava, Slovakia, ESET has undergone sustained growth over the past 17 years. The company now has customers in over 160 countries across the globe and was able to achieve sales of over $130 million last year.

ESET also has an average three-year growth rate of 99 per cent, with an extensive global distribution network of over 3,900 partners worldwide and offices in the UK, Argentina, the Czech Republic and the US. Today over 70 million customers rely on the company for home or business security.

“ESET has seen a steady uptake over the past years, which has not abated despite the economic downturn,” states Paul Brook, ESET’s chief executive officer for the UK. “Double-digit growth year-on-year is supported by renewal rates and substantial organic growth, and within the UK staffing levels have increased threefold in the last 18 months.

“Our current market share in the UK is smaller than the

>>> www.pcr-online.biz

December PCR 57

SOFTWARE ESET

>>>

major vendors. However, winning business is not proving to be problematic and we expect this to increase steadily over the next few years.”

Most people are likely to know ESET for its flagship product, NOD32 Antivirus, which forms the backbone of its portfolio and the foundation for the firms’ smart security software and its award-winning ThreatSense engine.

“ThreatSense combines multiple layers of detection technologies to ensure that threats are detected with a high degree of accuracy,” explains Brook. “It uses traditional and generic signatures to detect known threats and their variants. Passive heuristics finds patterns that indicate the presence of a malicious application. For applications that use encryption or compression to hide their true intentions, active heuristics employs emulation technologies to run the application in an isolated environment, then intelligently weighs a variety of observed behaviours to determine whether the application in question is malicious. We are very proud of its performance.

“These layers of detection capabilities allow the software to stop variants of known threats and even new threats faster than our rivals and the manner in which it operates ensures a low system footprint, enabling these advanced processes to run in the background with minimal impact on system speed or resources.”

The focus on fast identification and neutralisation of threats is key in an environment that has seen the creators of malware become more sophisticated and professional with each passing year. Many attacks are made on a ‘by order’ basis and the gathering of personal information is more lucrative than ever before.

“Where there used to be hobbyist virus authors writing proof-of-concept malware that might or might not get out into the wild (and more often than not wasn’t intended to do more than replicate), there are organised gangs using samurai (hackers-for-hire) and malware coders who may be freelancers, but are mostly in it for the money,” observes Brook.

“Similarly, the malware tends to have solid commercial value: banking trojans and password stealers for

58 PCR December

The team at ESET is constantly pushing forward, providing users and the channel with increased levels of support

“Our current market share is smaller than the major vendors.

However, winning business is not proving to be problematic and we expect this to increase over the next few years” Paul Brook, ESET phishing and other direct financial fraud, agent software that enables the sale or rent of botnet services for purposes such as Distributed Denial of Service attacks (DDOS), click fraud, and various forms of spam and fake security programs which also have a fraudulent agenda. There are still hobbyists around, but most of the proof-of-concept code is for other platforms such as smartphones, which probably offer fewer opportunities for huge profits at the moment.”

Adaptability is one of the key characteristics of malware developers, and so for many security companies,

the emphasis must be on observing legitimate web trends and anticipating any possible future threats. Another problem for security vendors is that as soon as a loophole is identified and patched, many hackers will immediately act on the identified loophole, in an attempt to catch users who are slow to update their software.

“Threats based on social engineering will continue to live long and prosper though zero-day vulnerabilities and drive-by downloads will still offer a useful entry point for some kind of attack,” Brook notes.

“We expect to see a continuing shift away from attacks on operating system vulnerabilities towards weaknesses in applications – that will be much harder to track.

“Because changes in threats and defensive software tend to drive each other, we prefer not to speculate too much publicly on the technical possibilities. There is enough innovation in malware creation without vendors adding value.”

So, with the future as a primary concern for the security industry, what

plan does ESET have for the coming years ahead?

“In the short-term, we have an increasing range of products on the horizon, including ESET Mobile Antivirus for Symbian and ESET Mail Security 4 for Microsoft Exchange Server,” discloses Brook.

“Alongside these software packages, and other products, our key focus is to provide increased level support for both end users and our channel alike.

Ultimately, we are clear that our products deliver exceptional performance, both in terms of speed and detection, with a low footprint and we intend for it to stay that way.

“Predicting the future is not an easy thing to do, especially in this day and age. More and more people are coming on board with ESET and we would expect to be a universally recognised name, both by businesses and consumers, within the next five years. Last year, Forbes wrote that ‘ESET may be the most effective virus scanner you have never heard of’ – we are expecting that to have changed within the next few years.”

www.pcr-online.biz

VIP Computers sell genuine MicrosoftÂŽ software

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Contact the award-winning VIP sales team on 0871 622 7500 or buy online at www.vip-computers.com/uk Š Copyright VIP Computer Centre Limited. 2009. Information correct at time of publication E&OE

SOFTWARE PC GAMES

New Releases PCR looks at the games set to hit the consumer market over the coming months and selects the best...

GAME OF THE MONTH LEFT 4 DEAD 2 Publisher: EA Centresoft: 0121 625 3388 Available: November 20th Price: ÂŁ34.99

BY BLENDING the meticulously refined team-based shooter model of CounterStrike with the ever-popular zombie genre, developer Valve created one of the most successful titles of 2008 with the original Left 4 Dead. The sequel follows new characters as they battle the undead across new landscapes.

TITLE

Gameplay continues in the same vein as the original, with players teaming up with friends or randoms and battling through the campaign as a group. It can also be played in single player mode.

Riding off the back of the huge fanbase and critical acclaim the game has received, you can expect the sequel to do well in the run up to Christmas, and the multiplayer nature of the game creates bundling opportunities with communication headsets and special gaming mice.

GENRE

PUBLISHER

TELEPHONE

DISTRIBUTOR

DATE

Dubai Airport: Gateway To The World

Simulation

First Class Simulations 01869 338833

Open

November 20 2009

Left 4 Dead 2

Action

EA

Centresoft

November 20 2009

LEGO Indiana Jones 2

Platformer

Activision Blizzard

0121 625 3388

Centresoft

November 20 2009

Saw: The Game

Survival Horror

Konami

0208 987 5706

Open

November 20 2009

Serious Sam HD: First Encounter

FPS

cdv

0845 234 4242

Mastertronic

November 20 2009

Sherlock Holmes Vs Jack The Ripper

Adventure

Ubisoft

0845 362 7769

Trilogy

November 20 2009

The Sims 3: World Adventures

Simulation

EA

0121 625 3388

Centresoft

November 20 2009

Class 60+ Freight

Simulation

Just Flight

0845 234 4242

Mastertronic

November 27 2009

0121 625 3388

Constellation Professional

Simulation

Just Flight

0845 234 4242

Mastertronic

November 27 2009

Planet 51

Action/Adventure

Sega

0121 625 3388

Centresoft

November 27 2009

Brain College: 3 Days Zoo Mystery

Casual

City Interactive

0845 362 7769

Trilogy

November

James Cameron's Avatar: The Game

Action

Ubisoft

0845 362 7769

Trilogy

December 4 2009

The Saboteur

Action

EA

0121 625 3388

Centresoft

December 8 2009

Airshow Pilot

Simulation

Just Flight

0845 234 4242

Mastertronic

Q4 2009

Alcatraz

FPS

City Interactive

0845 362 7769

Trilogy

January 15 2010

Army Of Two: The 40th Day

Action

EA

0121 625 3388

Centresoft

January 15 2010

Dark Void

Action

Capcom

0121 625 3388

Centresoft

January 15 2010

History Engineering an Empire Egypt

Strategy

Slitherine

0870 027 0985

Koch

February 5 2010

BioShock 2

FPS

2K Games

01279 822 800

Gem

February 9 2010

Indianapolis 500 Evolution

Racing

Zushi

01279 822 800

Gem

February 12 2010 February 12 2010

The Whispered World

Adventure

Deep Silver

0870 027 0985

Koch

Tom Clancy's Splinter Cell Conviction

FPS

Ubisoft

0845 362 7769

Trilogy

February 26 2010

767-200/300

Simulation

Just Flight

0845 234 4242

Mastertronic

Q1 2010

Alabama Smith

Casual

S.A.D

01582 436043

PlayV

Q1 2010

Alex Gordon

Platformer

S.A.D

01582 436043

PlayV

Q1 2010

Alice In Wonderland

Action

Disney Interactive

0121 625 3388

Centresoft

Q1 2010

Aliens Vs Predator

Action

Sega

0121 625 3388

Centresoft

Q1 2010

Amelie's Cafe

Casual

S.A.D

01582 436043

PlayV

Q1 2010

APB

MMO

EA

0121 625 3388

Centresoft

Q1 2010

Around The World In 80 Days

Puzzle

S.A.D

01582 436043

PlayV

Q1 2010

Arthur And The Revenge Of Maltazard

Action/Adventure

Ubisoft

0845 362 7769

Trilogy

Q1 2010

Assassin's Creed II

Action

Ubisoft

0845 362 7769

Trilogy

Q1 2010

BBC Battlefield Academy

Strategy

Slitherine

0870 027 0985

Koch

Q1 2010

Dogfighter

Action

Kalypso Media

0121 506 9585

Advantage

Q1 2010

*ABC-certified distribution 102,010 Jan-Dec 05

ON THE RADAR

Lego Indiana Jones 2: The Adventure Continues Publisher: Activision Blizzard Contact: 0121 625 3388

Saw: The Game Publisher: Konami Contact: 0208 987 5706

The Sims 3: World Adventures Publisher: EA Contact: 0121 625 3388

Consumer

Electronics PCR’s monthly look at recent developments in the consumer electronic market

P 65

MP3 PLAYERS AND ACCESSORIES We look at the latest audio gadgets and the accessories that go with them, from speakers to gaming grips

p 71

PRODUCT FOCUS PCR goes beyond the iPhone to look at three of the latest smartphones on the market

www.pcr-online.biz

December PCR 63

CONTACTS

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS MP3 PLAYERS AND ACCESSORIES

Bluepoint: 0844 571 8001 Digital Audio Distribution: 0845 050 7926

[

CMS Peripherals: 0208 960 6000 Gem Distribution: 01279 822 822 Hama: 0845 230 4262 Interactive Ideas: 0208 805 1000 Peak Development: 01489 796979

Logic3 Universal Pro Dock Distributor: Bluepoint SRP: £44.95

]

This dock charges, synchronises and allows video output from any iPod or iPhone. It comes with a mini USB port for data synchronisation, an AC adaptor to recharge the iPod and a remote to control both the dock itself and the iPod

Pik-a-Pak: 01473 271 272 Target Components: 01977 739 295 Westcoast: 0118 912 6260

Music to our ears With constant developments of high-tech gadgets combining all types of media in one single device, is the MP3 player set to be drowned out? Nicky Trup finds out what the industry thinks about the latest technology and looks at the time span of music players...

“MP3 players indicate that most recreational listening occurs while exercising, relaxing or travelling. We do not believe users will use high-end, expensive, bulky smartphones for much of this listening” Nikki Willcock, SanDisk

www.pcr-online.biz

WITH THE smartphone on the rise, some consumers have been hasty to consolidate all their gadgets into one, from their music players to their satnav systems. But the industry experts are saying that dedicated MP3 players, along with all the accessories that go with them, won’t become extinct any time soon.

“Usage models for MP3 players indicate that most recreational listening occurs while exercising, relaxing or travelling,” says Nikki Willcock, UK regional marketing manager for SanDisk. “We do not believe users will use high-end, expensive, bulky smart phones for much of this listening. And many people are also highly concerned about battery life on their mobile phones.”

Sony UK’s category product manager, Omar Gurnah, echoes Willcock’s view, saying: “Most people probably wouldn’t want to take an expensive smartphone into the gym or out for a run, and likewise, if you’re really into your music there’s nothing worse than having your mobile’s battery die half way through a commute. That’s less of a problem with a dedicated player.

“The biggest one for me though is sound quality. I’ve still not heard any phone or other device that sounds anywhere near as good as the X Series Walkman. I’m pretty proud of that.”

Gurnah believes that, while the demand for lower-end MP3 devices is dwindling, there is a market for dedicated players.

“Our non-phone MP3 players are still selling really well. The overall market is declining slowly, but innovations like wireless and noise cancelling mean that the high-end of the market is actually growing year on year,” he says.

With Christmas fast approaching, many distributors have seen the annual peak in demand for MP3-related products. An iPod or similar high-end device is seen by many consumers as the ideal present, while cheaper audio devices and accessories are popular stocking-fillers.

“Consumers will use their MP3 players all year round and will need Turn the page for more key products

>>>

December PCR 65

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS MP3 PLAYERS AND ACCESSORIES

[ [

iPod Touch Distributor: Westcoast SRP: £149 for 8GB, £229 for 32GB, £299 for 64GB

AirDrives Fit Earphones for Kids Distributor: Interactive Ideas SRP: £19.99

accessories also. They make great gifts over Christmas and other occasions where some may want to upgrade and get something better,” says Yen Tru, a marketing executive for Interactive Ideas. “Airdrives Fit and the SteelSeries Siberia range have more value added to their accessories in terms of great quality and comfort that will certainly appeal to consumers.”

66 PCR December

]

[

iPod Nano Distributor: Westcoast SRP: £115 for 8GB, £135 for 16GB

This 1GB MP3 player is fully waterproof up to a depth of three metres. It weighs only 35g and can be attached to goggles or swimwear. The device also features a short earphone cord, ergonomic buttons and multiple sizes of ear buds. Speedo’s playlist editing software allows users to add and sort music, while the battery has a life of up to nine hours

]

The children’s version of AirDrives Fit for adults feature the same cinch around the ear, providing a secure fit while leaving space for a hat, helmet or sunglasses. The earphones keep sound at safe levels to prevent hearing damage and to allow children to still hear their surroundings. Designed for durability, they are sweat, dirt, and weather resistant

]

The iPod Touch features a multi-touch interface for playing games or browsing the web, a 3.5-inch widescreen display, wi-fi, Bluetooth and a built-in accelerometer and speaker. Additional features include Shake to Shuffle and the new Genius Mixes, which automatically creates up to 12 endless mixes of songs from your iTunes library that complement each other

>>>

[

Speedo Aquabeat Distributor: Direct SRP: £75

“Docking stations are popular with those who want to get rid of headphones and share music. FM transmitters give consumers the option to listen to an iPod on the car stereo without the hassle of wires” Hyder Badami, Bluepoint According to Bluepoint’s senior sales manager, Hyder Badami, some types of accessories are on the rise.

“Car kits and docking stations are popular with those who want to get rid of their headphones and share music.

The latest Nano comes with the new additions of a video camera, microphone, speaker and pedometer. The FM tuner features live pause and iTunes Tagging functions, allowing users to tag a song so they can purchase it when they sync the device with their computer. The Nano comes in a choice of nine colours

]

FM transmitters give consumers the option to listen to an iPod on the car stereo or at a small party without having the hassle of wires.”

Badami adds that by placing orders well before the festive season, distributors stand to make a larger margin.

“The demand for MP3 players and accessories is at its peak two to three months before Christmas, so having

www.pcr-online.biz

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS MP3 PLAYERS AND ACCESSORIES

[ [

Trust iPod Sound Station Distributor: Interactive Ideas SRP: £25.52

]

These speakers, which come with a remote control, feature one-touch controls for volume, mute and standby and can also be used to charge the device’s battery. It is also compatible with iPod Shuffle and other audio devices with a 3.5mm stereo output. Designed with neodymium bass drivers and tweeters for high quality sound

[

[

Logic3 FM Transmitter and Car Charger for iPod Distributor: Bluepoint SRP: £24.95

Exspect Gaming Grip Distributor: Gem SRP: £14.99

Sony Walkman S Series Distributor: Pik-a-Pak SRP: £109.99 The 16GB S Series features a built-in FM tuner with 30 preset channels, along with built-in stereo speakers, which give users the option of playing radio stations or albums out loud. The device is open format, meaning that WMA and AAC files, as well as MP3s, can be played on it. It also features a voice recorder

]

]

The Gaming Grip is ergonomically designed to recreate the experience of playing on a handheld games console. Made from silicon, it improves the user’s grip of the iPod Touch 2G and the 3G and 3GS iPhones. The Grip is contoured to fit the palm of the hand while keeping the touch screen completely accessible. With a screen protector included as standard, it also doubles up as a protective case when not being used for games

]

The FM transmitter allows users to play their iPod through car stereo speakers and store up to ten common frequencies or manually search for the clearest signal. The 3.5mm stereo connector allows connection to other MP3 players, while the car charger ensures the iPod stays powered up

them in stock is always good to cater to that demand and save on the price increase at Christmas time,” he says.

Undoubtedly, the iPod – and now, by extension, the iPhone – dominates the MP3 sector, so compatible accessories have become a rather lucrative market.

But are consumers willing to buy headphones, speakers and so on from third-party manufacturers?

www.pcr-online.biz

According to Tru, the answer is yes.

“Non-branded accessories do well, especially when they are of higher quality and have something different to offer,” she says.

Badami adds: “Non-Apple accessories really do well for those who want to save on their budget – especially in the recession. There are a lot of companies that manufacture good quality

accessories at almost one third of the price of their Apple counterparts, hence they are value for money.”

But Apple’s monopoly doesn’t end with hardware. The popularity of iTunes has led many consumers towards the iPod simply to ensure compatibility.

Songs purchased from the iTunes Store come in the Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) format, which is incompatible

with many MP3 players. And, while these files can usually be converted, less computer-savvy users may not know how to do this.

“For a lot of people iTunes is not just a good music store, it’s also a pretty good music management tool. It will have definitely helped some MP3 users go back and buy another iPod when their first one breaks

>>>

December PCR 67

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS MP3 PLAYERS AND ACCESSORIES

[

iRiver B30 Distributor: Digital Audio Distribution SRP: £139 for 8GB, £179 for 16GB

]

The B30 features vibrating touch buttons and a built-in G-Sensor, which means the user can simply shake the device to change the track or rotate it to watch movies in landscape mode. The integrated DAB+ radio includes electronic programme guides, album art and artist and track information, which is updated live. The microSD memory card slot also gives consumers the option of boosting the device’s capacity

[

SanDisk Sansa Clip+ Distributor: Hama, Peak Development, CMS Peripherals SRP: £37.90 for 2GB, £45.90 for 4GB, £62.90 for 8GB

]

The Clip+ comes in three capacities up to 8GB, with a colour choice of red, black or blue. The microSD memory card slot allows users to load additional songs without using up the device’s inbuilt memory. As the name would suggest, the device features a wearable clip for hands-free portability

[

]

[

Veho Qube Earphones Distributor: Target Components SRP: £19.99

These earphones use Veho’s Qube noise-cancelling technology, designed to cut out external sound.

The in-ear design also allows the buds to sit right in the ear for both comfort and practicality

>>>

down,” says Gurnah. For that reason, some vendors are developing MP3 devices that work with multiple formats, from AAC to Windows Media Audio – the default file format of CDs ripped by Microsoft’s Windows Media Player – as well as different music management systems.

“We’ve added support for iTunes across the range this year,” Gurnah says.

68 PCR December

Veho 360 Portable Speaker Distributor: Target Components SRP: £19.99

]

The 360 speaker is small, lightweight and compatible with any audio device with a 3.5mm headphone jack. The built-in liion battery, which can be recharged from a PC, Mac or mains power, has a life of up to eight hours

“For a lot of people iTunes is not just a good music store, it’s also a good music management tool. It will have definitely helped MP3 users go back and buy another iPod when their first one breaks down” Omar Gurnah, Sony UK “That is a big deal, because it is driven entirely by feedback from our customers

in the UK. “Now it doesn’t matter how you manage your music or videos – in all

likelihood, as Walkman will work with them,” continues Gurnah. As each MP3 player offers greater compatibility, increased storage space and more features, the device will inevitably merge permanently with the mobile phone.

Until the iPhone et al drop their prices, it seems there is still a demand for dedicated MP3 players and still money to be made in this sector.

www.pcr-online.biz

$BTFT t $16T t %JTQMBZT t 'MBTI .FNPSZ t )BSE %SJWFT t /FUXPSLJOH t /PUFCPPLT t 1FSJQIFSBMT t 4PGUXBSF t 7JEFP $BSET

Professional Video Communication for Businesses Logitech® QuickCam 3000 Business The QuickCam 3000 is designed to provide an easy and economical video conferencing solution, with true plug ‘n’ play video. VGA-quality video (640 x 480 pixels) at up to 30 frames per second provides images with an impressive level of detail and fluidity. Its universal monitor clip and additional tripod socket base allows the webcam to be mounted securely on desks, walls or other fixtures for the ultimate versatility. QuickCam® for Enterprise software provides additional features such as video capture and 1.3-megapixel software enhanced photos.

VIP Order Code: 100076 Call for pricing

Logitech® QuickCam® Pro 9000 Business The QuickCam® Pro 9000 is a premium webcam with sophisticated optics, designed for professional communication. Using Carl Zeiss® optics with autofocus for incredibly sharp and clear images, it also features a true 2-megapixel sensor. With plug ‘n’ play functionality users can make video calls without installing software. Videos are VGA-quality (1600 x 1200 pixels) with an impressive level of detail and fluidity at up to 30 frames per second means. QuickCam® for Enterprise software provides additional features such as autofocus, video capture and 8-megapixel software enhanced photos.

VIP Order Code: 100077 Call for pricing

Sales: 0871 622 7500 www.vip-computers.com/uk © Copyright VIP Computer Centre Limited. 2009. Information correct at time of publication E&OE

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS PRODUCT FOCUS

Smarten up New smartphones allow consumers to separate their work and private lives, chat on instant messaging services and watch movies. Nicky Trup examines three of the latest models...

“There is more to the smartphone market than the iPhone and BlackBerry – Nokia and LG have recently launched new products, while Sony Ericsson’s Xperia X10 is due to hit shelves in early 2010”

www.pcr-online.biz

SINCE THE launch of the firstgeneration iPhone in 2007, the device has overtaken the BlackBerry as the ‘must have’ mobile gadget among consumers. But there is more to the smartphone market than just these two brands – Nokia and LG have both recently launched new products, while Sony Ericsson’s Xperia X10 is due to hit the UK’s shelves in early 2010.

The Nokia E72 – like its predecessor, the E71 – features a full qwerty keyboard, but comes with new features that are designed to make it more ‘desktop-like’.

The device is Nokia’s first to allow people to set up instant messaging directly from the home screen, to access tools such as Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo Messenger and Google Talk.

The E72 also comes with the Nokia Messaging push consumer email service. The smartphone can accommodate multiple email accounts and also enables users to create separate profiles for both work and personal messages.

Additional features include an optical navigation key, a five megapixel camera and the latest version of Ovi Maps, which comes with A-GPS navigation and a compass.

LG, meanwhile, has launched the GD510 POP – the world’s smallest full three-inch touchscreen phone.

The touchscreen extends almost to the edges of the brushed aluminium phone, with a single button on the face. This button acts as the menu, end and cancel keys, and lights up in either green or red to reflect which mode the phone is in.

The device sports a simple web browser and user interface, which includes shortcuts to favourite sites and widgets. Users can also play music and movies, and capture photos and video on the phone’s three-megapixel camera. These files can then be stored on the device’s 8GB of external memory, shared online or even sent wirelessly.

Sony Ericsson has announced that its new family of phones will be coming to market in the first half of

2010. The first in the range, the Xperia X10, is due to launch in the UK by the end of March.

The X10’s new UX (user experience) platform builds onto Open OS and combines entertainment features with social media services and a graphical user interface. Sony Ericsson describes the device as “the first mobile phone to truly humanise the way people interact with their phones”.

New applications on the device include Timescape, which manages all the user’s communication with a particular person in one place, from Twitter and Facebook messages to emails and texts. Another, called Mediascape, accesses music, photos and video content from various sources, such as the phone itself and YouTube, presenting them all in one space.

The X10’s intelligent face recognition features can recognise up to five faces in any picture, automatically connecting them with the user’s phonebook and all other related communications.

December PCR 71

72 PCR December

www.pcr-online.biz

>>> THE PLACE FOR BUSINESS

MARKETPLACE

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

ADVERTISER CONTACTS Agency Sales 01623 473 040

aslweb.co.uk

Bluepoint 0870 121 8001

bluepoint.net

Brigantia 01765 603 300

brigantia.com

Broadband first 0800 027 0346

broadbandfirst.co.uk

Cartridge Expert 01489 795 668

cartridgeexpert.co.uk

CD Writer 0208 293 0777

cd-writer.com

Computer gear 0121 503 0666

computergear.co.uk

DMSL 01708 776005

fixITlocal.co.uk/reseller

DSL 01604 924 516

dslplus.co.uk

Electronic Island 0208 767 1955

e-island.co.uk

Enet 07801 818 815

enetcomputers.net

Expodata 0870 077 0077

pctestpro.com

GEM 01279 822 822

gem.co.uk

Greenpod 01753 853 500

greenpod.co.uk

Ideal Software 01767 689 720

idealsoftware.net

Interactive Ideas 0208 805 1000

interactiveideas.com

Keyboard Co 0845 205 5555

keyboardco.com

MSI 020 8296 7066

northamber.com

NTEC 0116 262 3020 sales@dynamicteamwear.com Realtime 01480 435 881

realtimeonline.co.uk

SDA 0161 819 1515

sdatrading.com

SJ Software 01282 865 500

sjsoftware.co.uk

TADL 0845 370 8668

tadlassist.com

VIP 0871 622 7500

vip-computers.com/uk

Wasp 0845 430 1971

waspbarcode.co.uk

Xpo IT Services 01952 608 908

xpoitservices.co.uk

www.pcr-online.biz

To advertise on these pages please call Carly Bailey: 01992 535647 carly.bailey@intentmedia.co.uk December PCR 73

MARKETPLACE NEWS

McCue inks partner deal for retailers New Retail Partner Programme open to computer businesses, stationers and hardware stores “This offer is unique. It’s ‘credit crunch busting’ in that there’s no big capital outlay, no lease agreements to sign and no expensive franchise” Andy Gray, Cartridge Expert

MCCUE Cartridge Expert has launched its Retail Partner Programme to allow smaller retailers to refill customers ink cartridges in store.

Cartridge Expert provides its partners with the latest inkjet refill system for free, along with training, consumables and marketing support, in return for a 50 per cent share of the profits from each refill sale.

“We believe this offer is unique in the marketplace. It

is ‘credit crunch busting’ in that there is no big capital outlay, no lease agreements to sign and no expensive franchise,” said Andy Gray, Cartridge Expert’s sales manager. “There are no penalties for not meeting targets – partners simply share the profit 50/50 with us as and when a sale is made.”

Cartridge Expert is initially targeting smaller, established retailers including computer service providers or suppliers,

along with stationery and hardware shops. The firm will also consider other outlets such as educational establishments and charities.

“The machine itself is really simple and easy to use. It is no more complicated than a coffee machine and is perfect for a retail environment as there is no need for a specialist operator.

“It is manufactured in the UK and full backup telephone support and

maintenance are also available,” said Gray.

Initially, businesses within two hours’ drive of the Cartridge Expert factory, in Southampton, will be given preference for the scheme, but the company will ensure that retail partners are not set up too close to each other.

Partners will be required to achieve 15 refill sales a week, which will increase to 50 per week once they have established themselves.

Quiet PC signs up Fractal Designs UK distie creates exclusive partnership with Swedish PC brand

Glenn Garrett, managing director at Quiet PC

74 PCR December

COMPONENT retailer and distributor Quiet PC has signed a deal with Swedish vendor Fractal Designs to exclusively bring its products to the UK. Fractal Designs specialises in creating PC cases, power supply units, cooling solutions and media centre products that feature a high level of stylisation.

Its flagship PC case, the Define R2, which features a seamless front panel and ModuVent technology, has received a huge amount of interest from Quiet PC customers, according to the firm.

“The PC peripheral market is reasonably mature, and

“It’s rare that we see anything genuinely new, different or significantly better than current offerings” Glenn Garrett, Quiet PC although here at Quiet PC we frequently receive manufacturer product pitches, it’s rare that we see anything which is genuinely new, different or significantly better than current offerings,” commented Quiet PC’s managing director, Glenn Garrett. “When Fractal Design first approached us, we were impressed by its pitch but even more so by its products.

“It was clear how serious it was about taking market share quickly, given the high build quality of its offerings and innovative design features.

With the announcement of its Define R2 computer case, we’ve never seen so much interest from end users and resellers prior to stock availability. It’s the design and execution of the products which brings enthusiasm to the market,” continued Garrett.

Fractal joins Scythe, Zalman and Arctic Cooling in Quiet PC’s brand portfolio, all of which have recently helped it become a key distributor and reseller of noise reduction products in the UK.

www.pcr-online.biz

NEWS MARKETPLACE

NewsBytes ASUS UNVEILS MULTITOUCH NETBOOK Asus has launched the Eee PC T91MT, an updated notebook/tablet hybrid that the firm hopes will spin the industry on its ear. The device features new multitouch capabilities, with users flicking, dragging, pointing and picking at photos and other items.

Crucially, the netbook integrates native support for Windows 7, an OS which can fully utilise touchscreen mechanics.

RECYCLING WEBSITE SET UP FOR INTEGRA MEMBERS K2 Supplies and dealer group Integra Office Solutions have launched a recycling website.

Initiativerecycling.com gives Integra members access to online facilities to arrange recycling collections for printer cartridges and mobile phones, order freepost envelopes, and request price lists and promotional posters. K2 is offering free movie tickets for the first 50 members to arrange a collection through the site.

Cartridge Experts’ inkjet refill system is designed to help small retailers improve their businesses in return for a 50 per cent profit share of each sale

Veho seals UK distribution deal with Ingram Micro ELECTRONICS vendor Veho has signed up Ingram Micro to distribute its products in the UK. Ingram Micro was chosen to help the Hampshire-based firm penetrate the High Street retail market due to its longstanding relationships in the field.

“This is quite a major step for Veho, as Ingram is recognised as a market leader for IT and consumer electronic distribution,” Veho’s founder and international sales director, Steve Lewis, told PCR. “Veho’s main reason for collaborating with Ingram is that it wants to attack the High Street retail market and sees it as the link to this strategy.”

Ingram Micro joins a number of distributors including Target Components, Micro P and Bluepoint

www.pcr-online.biz

that feed Veho products to the UK channel.

Veho, which started out in specialist imaging products, is increasingly moving into the consumer electronics market, with recent successful products including the Muvi mini DV camcorder and the Sports MP3 player.

Mimi Cube wi-fi speakers from Veho

NUMARA RELEASES NEW ‘SIMPLIFIED’ DESKTOP MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE Numara Software has released Numara FootPrints 9.5, the latest version of its service desk management product. FootPrints 9.5 has a more flexible design and simplified interface, which allows quick in-line editing, easy access BEJEWELLED USB DRIVES LAUNCHED FOR CHRISTMAS Memory specialist takeMS has created two USB drives embedded with real diamonds.

The MEM-Drive DeLuxe comes with three 0.01 carat diamonds and can be worn on a 45cm sterling silver necklace, while the MEM-Drive Superb has one diamond and comes on a keyring. Both designs can be engraved on demand.

icons and priority item colouring.

FootPrints 9.5 is compatible with both Windows and Linux.

TCA HITS ROAD WITH SYMANTEC The Technology Channels Association has teamed up with Symantec for its Small Business oadshow, which aims to provide training, advice and updates to customers. “We are pleased to be at these events,” said TCA president Keith Warburton. “We’ve made a number of good contacts and met some interesting people, and we’re delighted to be able to support Symantec.”

HP LAUNCHES FREEVIEW PC Packard Bell has unveiled its oneTwo series of PCs, which feature an integrated Freeview certified TV tuner as standard. The device was created to bring a wider variety of media entertainment onto the computer, while dispensing with the wires and separate components that are often required to create a media centre PC. MICRO P OFFERS CHRISTMAS VISION UK distributor Micro P has created a range of ‘visual experience’ products that are designed to provide resellers and retailers with dynamic, sellable gift products for Christmas. The range includes digital photo frames from the Linx Memoire series and Linx HDMI cables.

XPO IT SERVICES GETS ISO CERTIFICATION Telford-based IT recycling and data shredding firm XPO IT Services has received its ISO 27001 accreditation, which means that the company is meeting new laws relating to the destruction of data.

XPO’s Ross Talbot said that much of the firm’s business was thanks to its official certification. “They need to know that their drives are being destroyed correctly and that each drive is accounted for,” he said.

December PCR 75

MARKETPLACE INDIE PROFILE/EVENTS

INDIE PROFILE This month sees Roger Humm talking to George Nicola of Tiptree Computers from Essex...

FACT BOX Year established: 1998 Number of outlets: 1 Number of staff: 3

GEORGE NICOLA came to the industry from Reuters, where he drove computer engineers around the City of London in the nineties. Getting to know the engineers who mainly looked after servers within the banks, Nicola took the opportunity to train as one.

When his team at Reuters was made redundant 11 years ago, Nicola decided to open his own retail computer outlet in East London with his brother. It was mainly PC sales driven, and was at the time when internet sales were taking off, so he quickly capitalised on this and built up a strong internet presence – making use of online auction websites such as eBay and Freeserve. When he moved from London to Tiptree their partnership split as travelling became too much.

Nicola opened Tiptree Computers in 2007 and soon built a good reputation by providing honest and informed advice.

By supplying a high level of service he has grown a large customer base with most returning and recommending others.

Talking about recent hard times he said: “When the recession hit, our hardware sales went down but our repairs went up, as people wanted to get more life out of their older PCs or laptops rather than buy new ones.

“We have a fixed labour charge on all repairs of £49.99, so our customers always know where they are price-wise, regardless of the amount of work carried out. We only charge extra for

parts, or if the customer needs data recovered or backed up.”

Talking about Brigantia he said: “We joined Brigantia a few years ago through a supplier’s recommendation.

This helped get our costs down with credit/debit card processing, enabled us to trade with suppliers like Westcoast and opened up new opportunities for the company. The pricing terms and delivery deal with JetTec is worth our membership subscription on its own.”

The Brigantia Directory has helped increase traffic to Tiptree’s website, which went live last year. It’s there to advertise what it does, how to contact the firm and what times it’s open.

Regular vendor lines: AMD, APC, BullGuard, HP, Hauppauge, Intel, JetTec, Microsoft, Netgear, Sandberg, Seagate and Western Digital Contact name and address: George Nicola, Tiptree Computers, 102a Church Rd, Tiptree, Essex CO5 0AB Telephone: 01621 819 268 Email: sales@tiptreecomputers.co.uk Website: tiptreecomputers.co.uk Roger Humm is Head of Membership Relations at Brigantia Computer Experts – roger.humm@brigantia.com

DIARY DATES 2009 The UK’s channel calendar is full of important events. Here are some upcoming highlights…

DECEMBER 2009

MARCH 2010

TCA NETWORKING DINNER DECEMBER 8TH 2009 NOVOTEL, NOTTINGHAM

CEBIT MARCH 2ND - 6TH 2010 DEUTSCHE MESSE CONVENTION CENTER, GERMANY

You don't have to be a TCA Member to attend this event – anyone doing business in the channel is invited to enjoy a four-course dinner, along with wine tasting and networking opportunities.

JANUARY 2010 PCR AWARDS

CES JANUARY 7TH - 10TH 2010 LAS VEGAS CONVENTION CENTER, USA The US’s premiere gadget show returns to Las Vegas, providing the ideal opportunity to get a sneak peek at what consumers will be buying in 2010. Some of tech’s biggest names can be expected to make keynote speeches and unveil new products.

CeBit, one of the world’s largest IT trade fairs, will be showcasing leading technology from around the globe.

With products ranging from telecommunications equipment to IT infrastructure and mobile consumer devices, this year’s event should prove to be as wide-reaching and exciting as ever.

PCR AWARDS MARCH 25TH 2010 ROYAL GARDEN HOTEL, LONDON The third annual PCR Awards is set to be the social event of the year for anyone involved in the PC retail sector, and a well deserved

celebration for the nominees. For information or booking details and sponsorship opportunities, please contact Katie Rawlings on +44 (0) 1992 535 647 or email Katie.Rawlings@intentmedia.co.uk.

MAY 2010 CHANNEL EXPO MAY 12TH - 13TH 2010 KENSINGTON OLYMPIA, LONDON Building on the success of the last year’s show, Channel Expo 2010 will feature in-depth education and discussion areas, as well as exhibition stands from all the leading distributors and vendors operating in the UK channel. It is the largest and most influential trade show of its type in the UK. Reduced room rates are also available in the hotel if you are too ‘tired’ to go home at the end of the night.

If you would like to promote your event, please contact: andrew.wooden@intentmedia.co.uk CES 78 PCR December

This information is believed to be correct, but potential visitors should confirm details with show organisers before making arrangements to attend

www.pcr-online.biz

BRIGANTIA MARKETPLACE

Box clever in 2010 Brigantia’s Iain Shaw thinks the trade’s going to have to work hard to make next year better and more profitable than 2009. Here’s a few of his ideas...

CONTACT IAIN SHAW info@brigantia.com 0870 160 3215 www.brigantia.com Iain invites opinions from PCR readers and will respond though this column

www.pcr-online.biz

2009 IS DRAWING to an end and it has been the worst trading year that I have known since I first went into business in 1989.

There is no doubt that this recession is worse than that of the seventies and probably as bad as the depression of the thirties. My prediction is that 2010 is not going to be much better than 2009 and that any recovery is not likely to start properly until 2011 or later.

With professional practices of solicitors and accountants going bust, one has to wonder what hope there is for ordinary businesses. But I guess a business can do without a solicitor, or even an accountant, but if their computers and phones do not work they are stuffed.

With that thought in mind, I think we all need to box even more cleverly in 2010, so I will finish 2009 with some information about how using a reputable diagnostic tool can save time and money, and talk about two innovative new products I spotted at the recent ECRM event in Dublin.

MICRO 2000 UNIVERSAL DIAGNOSTIC TOOLKIT Using reputable and time-tested diagnostic tools such as the Micro 2000 Universal Diagnostic Toolkit offers a way to get the diagnoses right first time and also helps to ‘make more time’ by taking the guesswork, or ‘double work’, out of troubleshooting

“There is no doubt that this recession is worse than that of the seventies and probably as bad as the depression of the thirties. My prediction is that any recovery is not likely to start properly until 2011 or later” PCs. They even make it possible to confirm suspected faults before the box is even opened up.

As anyone in the business knows, the less time spent tracking down hardware issues the better, for us and the client, and the ability to get straight to the heart of the problem is the key to getting a computer up and running and back to the customer, so that you can get paid and move on to the next job.

Clearly, the ideal scenario would be that you get a PC in for repair, then find the fault (or faults) quickly and easily so that you can replace the necessary parts without having to swap out. You would then confirm that the PC is perfect working order before returning it to the customer promptly and with complete peace of mind that you’ve delivered a fully functioning machine. After all, no one wants to do warranty repairs that could have been avoided.

Micro 2000 has been developing and providing tools to technicians that, for over 20 years, have taken the

guesswork out of finding faults in PCs. While there are alternatives, few of them offer the thoroughness and range of utilities that make the Universal Toolkit far more than just a ‘diagnostic’ tool.

These additional utilities include system health checks for PC ‘MOTs’, system optimisation, conflict identification, advanced memory testing, low level formatting and data erasure, the ability to save and restore MBR and CMOS, real-time benchmarking and multi-cycle burn-in testing, to name just a few.

The Micro 2000 Universal Diagnostic Toolkit is a complete ‘pre repair’ and ‘post repair’ solution for anyone building, repairing or maintaining PCs. POGOPLUG AND OMNIMOUNT At the ECRM event in Dublin I spotted two excellent new products that I wanted to share. The first takes all the hassle out of setting up a private file-sharing system, while the other is a pretty revolutionary screenmounting bracket.

Pogoplug is plug-and-play, allowing you to set up a file-sharing system using the clever box of tricks with one or more external hard drives plugged into it. I set mine up in five minutes and was sharing files with family members via a web interface or iPhone App immediately. This is a product I expect to see go big and Brigantia will be helping our members to be the first to sell it to SOHO, small and medium enterprises, and consumers in 2010.

Omnimount is so simple that you wonder why nobody thought of it before. Installation is easy, it works with 13-inch to 42-inch screens and can support up to 18.1kg. It has a mounting profile of only 32mm, and it’s also universal and VESA compliant. It installs in just minutes and comes with drill bit, level and installation template.

Next month I will be reviewing 2009 and talking about its highs and lows.

December PCR 79

MARKETPLACE PC NEWS

On the road This month TCA president Keith Warburton talks about some of the activities and Government debate that the organisation has been involved in...

THIS PAST MONTH we’ve been very busy supporting our members and attending events, as well as working on some pretty major internal projects.

We’ve met TCA Members (and signed up many new ones) at the CRN Channel Conference, the Intel Channel Conference, and at IT Channel Vision. I attended the Parliament and internet conference and heard Martha Lane Fox speak there, and also attended an additional Parliament IT Committee Meeting.

Furthermore, we’ve been helping the police with their enquiries regarding a certain ‘rogue trader’, and we’ve moved offices and held our AGM as well.

As I write, we are in the process of getting ready to take part in Symantec’s series of roadshows; we’ve booked the venue for our Networking Christmas Dinner and we’re organising our February conference. Other than that, it’s been pretty quiet here at TCA Towers.

Martha Lane Fox, dotcom millionaire, is now ‘champion of the Digital Inclusion Task Force’, with the aim to create better education, health, Governmental and social opportunities for socially excluded people in the UK. The lack of connection for the old and socially deprived, and the way this limits their access to many of the benefits of the modern world, was highlighted in the Digital Britain report. It showed ten million people in the UK have never gone online. There’s a raft of statistics stating the economic benefit to the individual and the country if we remedy this situation. But the obstacles to success are many, not least being a distinct lack of notable

Government investment – long on intent, short on money.

The two largest e-bandoned groups are the elderly and the unemployed.

The Digital Britain Report highlighted that these sectors could either see no advantage in getting online, or else simply could not afford the technology.

When you are scrabbling to feed your family or pay the fuel bill, you don’t consider getting a computer as being a potential solution to your pressing needs. And once you’ve got it, you still need to pay for your broadband access.

The Government is going to raise a levy on all fixed phone lines in order to pay for connecting the unconnected. But then what? Is it going to give away several million computers?

It was a previous prime minister who indicated that the solution to a lot of the country’s ills lay in ‘education, education, education’, and that surely is the solution to the problem of the digitally excluded. First ensure they are educated as to the benefits they can gain, whether or not that is via existing adult social projects or in existing schools, but let us invest in these areas first. And then we should deliver the connectivity through channels that already exist and that users are comfortable with, namely cable and satellite services.

But who will deliver and install the solutions, whether they are indeed computers or an enhancement to current entertainment services? And which people are best placed to educate their local communities? It seems to me that the future holds plenty of opportunity for independent resellers, but the issue will be how to make a margin on it.

“The lack of connection for the old and socially deprived, and the way this limits their access to the benefits of the modern world, was highlighted in the Digital Britain report. It showed ten million people in the UK have never gone online” Keith Warburton, TCA

Mike Scott

Keith Warburton is the president of The Technology Channels Association, email: keith.warburton@tcauk.org.

80 PCR December

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MAC NEWS MARKETPLACE

What’s in store for

trade shows?

Robert Peckham, director of the Technology Channels Association, talks about industry events and if there is a future for Mac Expo...

JUST A year ago, although we really weren’t aware of it at the time, the UK’s Apple buyers, users and reseller channels were witnessing the final closure of that perennial event. Mac Expo. I’ve covered the many reasons for the demise of this traditional Apple industry gathering in my previous columns, so I won’t go over the reasons again, but my personal opinions certainly highlighted my doubts on the future of shows like Mac Expo.

This was mainly thanks to disinterested consumers, dealer apathy and the availability of information on the internet.

However, I think I might have just had my mind changed by attending two recent events.

Despite my great interest in the subject of data storage (how sad am I?) somehow I’ve always managed to miss Storage Expo in previous years, so this year I was determined to make it, especially as it was being held in the same Olympia hall as

“I attended the CRN Channel Conference. This event was very informative in its content, superbly organised, and supported by significant channel vendors and distributors” Robert Peckham, TCA the last Mac Expo. I rolled along to Olympia’s huge National Hall on the last day of the show, fully expecting to find a similar, half-empty, under-attended, unimpressive and lacklustre show. How wrong I was.

I arrived at the show mid-morning, and despite clutching my pre-registered, pre-

Robert Peckham is a director of The Technology Channels Association. email: robert.peckham@tcauk.org.

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printed badge, there was still a queue to collect badge holders and show programmes. Once inside the hall, I stopped and looked in awe – it was absolutely packed. The aisles were crowded, every stand appeared to have many interested visitors, the hall was full of high-profile, significant brand names in the storage market and there were plenty of well-attended seminars and educational sessions, both on stands and in adjoining meeting rooms. There was certainly a very large amount of extremely complex demonstration equipment being proudly put through its paces for the expectant onlookers.

When I finally got to speak to anyone on a stand, they all reported a similar story throughout all the days of the show.

So I had to ask – had many dealers or resellers been along to the event? The answer, I am very pleased to say, was a resounding ‘yes’. I’ve since spoken to the organisers who tell me that almost 30 per cent of the visitors to Storage Expo were from computer dealers, resellers or were IT consultants.

I also attended recent conferences that have been a success. So there’s hope yet that the reseller channel can actually be inspired to leave the security of their offices or showrooms and attend events where they can meet and network with others in the industry, learn more about the products or services they sell, and be presented with new potential opportunities that could change their business fortunes.

Let’s hope they all feel similarly inspired to attend our future Association events, and perhaps there’s hope yet for a future Mac Expo after all.

The TCA is the recently renamed, not–for–profit trade body with membership made up of businesses from all parts of the channel.

Visit www.tcauk.org for more information

December PCR 81

MARKETPLACE BLUEPOINT COMPANY PROFILE

Point forward After 17 years of operation, Bluepoint has become one of the UK’s foremost distributors of IT hardware, with offices across the globe.

Matt Grainger talks to its operations director Rizwan Datoo about the company, its success and its plans for the future...

CONTACT Phone: 0844 571 8001 Web: www.bluepoint.net

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FOUNDED IN 1992 with just a handful of employees, Bluepoint has steadily grown to become a prominent player in the UK IT channel and now has over 50 people working in various offices around the world.

After five years of operation, it was listed in the top 20 fastest growing companies in the UK by the Virgin Fast Track 100. In 2003, the company moved in to its purpose-built £1.5 million headquarters in Milton Keynes.

It has also gone on to form key partnerships with a number of global vendors, including Intel, Microsoft, AMD, Fujitsu, Seagate and Acer.

Bluepoint’s operations director, Rizwan Datoo, regards this kind of partnership as one of the company’s core strengths – something that it takes care to cultivate with various businesses throughout the channel – allowing it to offer a far greater range of services to its customers.

“Not only do we have direct relationships with a range of brands, we also have strong links with all the major IT distributors in the UK,” explains Datoo. “This means that at Bluepoint, a customer can find anything that is available throughout the UK distribution chain. We consolidate orders for them, provide direct shipment to their customers, direct account management and we can do it on a white label basis.”

Another thing that Datoo feels has benefitted the company, is its emphasis on retaining its customers to help create long-term relationships, and says that being the first point of call for any product requirement is the path to success.

“Our product diversification has allowed us to offer over 25,000 products to our customers, while still retaining the focus of direct account management, and a strong stock holding of items our customers regularly require,” states Datoo. “We specialise in providing customers with what they need, even when a customer has a requirement for something we don’t stock – we will try and source it for them.”

A key aspect of providing for customers’ needs is the willingness to

embrace new technology and business practices to enhance its own business structure. “Our adoption of IT, and constant improvement of technology to provide customers the most competitive price in the most efficient manner, is what people appreciate and that’s why they keep coming back.”

Datoo notes that today’s market is significantly different from the one of 20 years ago, much harder and with significantly narrower margins.

However, the attention to customer service that Bluepoint prides itself on has been the driving force behind its success, and it has been the main factor in its business model, which has seen the company diversify its portolio in order to further provide for the needs and demands of its customers.

“I think if you don’t change to meet the needs of your customers, and

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BLUEPOINT COMPANY PROFILE MARKETPLACE

“Our product diversification has allowed us to offer over 25,000 products to customers, while retaining focus of direct account management, and a strong stock holding of items our customers regularly require” Rizwan Datoo, Bluepoint

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embrace the challenges of the times, then you will be obsolete,” says Datoo.

“Today, apart from the thousands of items we resell, we provide our customers with leading marketing support, including web integration, daily specific branded e-shots for them to resend, as well as being able to quote their customer, their brand, logo, and details directly from our website.”

This strategy has found Bluepoint in good stead during the recession, and has proved to be a time of growth for the company.

“I think our key strengths came into play, and as customers reviewed their current suppliers in order to save money, they found that Bluepoint provided a range of brands at competitive prices, and as a result we’ve seen our business increase,” observes Datoo. “I could not

begin to estimate our market share; for us the key figures show an increase in customer satisfaction, customer retention and sales. As long as we continue to keep our customers happy and bring in good results, then that’s what is important.

“I think in these times, customers appreciate service and support, a number they can call, and a familiar person they can speak to.”

With its current strategy proving to be a success, Bluepoint is looking to build on it for the future. The company is aware that any growth must be supported by the necessary infrastructure.

“We want 2010 to be another growth year,” says Datoo. “Our focus will be on improving the range of services to our customers, and allowing them to concentrate on winning business. We are investing heavily in

our IT infrastructure, from the back end through to the website, to provide online tools that will make selling easier, and to generate business for our customers and in turn ourselves.”

In the long term, Bluepoint has its eyes set on distant horizons, and with short-term strategy focussing on infrastructure, it could well be one to watch down the line.

“We are working towards scaling our operations within the UK, and expanding into Europe and the Middle East,” concludes Datoo. “I think the market will change drastically over the next five years, with more integration of products and the resulting shrink in the components sector. There will be greater demands for online services, and the products to access them from every room and device in a business or home.”

December PCR 83

MARKETPLACE

ITACS NEWS

NASCR NEWS

INDEPENDENT TRADE ASSOCIATION OF COMPUTING SPECIALISTS YOU CAN CONTACT ITACS ON 08445 763 760 OR VISIT WWW.ITACS.ORG.UK

Christmas is coming

Busy business NASCR committee member Geoff Carr loves the busy season.

He’s less fond of the Windows 7 marketing campaign...

ITACS chairman Matthew Woolley looks forward to the money-making opportunities that Windows 7 and Christmas will bring...

WINDOWS 7 IS available now and should give the whole channel a much needed sales boost – especially as we move into the Christmas period.

With a good press right from the start, unlike its predecessor Vista, there are a lot of excellent opportunities with Windows 7. New users who are unfamiliar with the OS will need help, others will want to upgrade, and there will be lots of new computers to configure.

There will be huge bunch of noobs this Christmas as mums, dads and grannies take the plunge for the

therefore with our stock purchases.

We can’t afford to be the cash cow milked to death by vendors or disties who are eager to subsidise their new customers. If loyalty is not going to be rewarded and if our margins are not going to be protected then we have to look for the cheapest source for our products to minimise losses and focus on service and training for our profits.

We have to be careful though, because some big names are trying to move into services with monthly contracts and call centres. Our

“There will be a huge bunch of noobs this Christmas, as mums, dads and grannies take the plunge for the first time and try to figure out how to look at the Christmas photos on Facebook. Here’s hoping for a good festive season” first time and try to figure out how to look at the Christmas photos on Facebook. Here's hoping for a good festive season.

And where are we going to be in a few years time? Will we be sales guys or techies? Looking to the future, the trends are obvious.

Computer ownership will continue to grow and there will be little or no margin on sales for a long time to come. All of us need to be ruthless

84 PCR December

advantage over them is we can do services and training face to face. We can see the look of horror as we explain to a customer how they have been ‘0wn3d’ because of a simple mistake. We can also see how well consumers are able to understand us, as we explain and teach them something new so it doesn't happen again. We can also see the look of joy as grandma is finally able to see pictures of her grandchildren.

“I want all my customers to come back again and again instead of making a quick buck off them in a one-off sale. The public trusts indies that build a good reputation”

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SPECIALIST COMPUTER RETAILERS YOU CAN CONTACT NASCR ON 08456 440715 OR VISIT WWW.NASCR.ORG

I CAN’T REMEMBER when we were busier in the shop. Around 15 years ago we were selling games as well as doing repairs; it got a bit crazy at Christmas time, but not like this. It isn’t just repairs coming in thick and fast either – it’s a battle to keep enough goodies on the shelves, too. Is it the same for you? There’s supposed to be a recession going on out there somewhere.

I am getting more and more convinced that the public are coming to us instead of huge institutional-type businesses, which they are becoming more sceptical and suspicious of. They know they are being taken for a ride at that big multiple we all know and love.

I want my customers to come back again and again instead of making a quick buck off them in a one-off sale. This underlying concept affects all we do in the shop and should be the one thing that’s common to existing NASCR members and those considering joining. The public are much more likely to trust an indie that wants to keep building up a good reputation.

Windows 7 has just come out and it seems to be a great product, but Microsoft, what are you playing at?

Pay me a million a year so I can have enough hair to make a pony tail look convincing and I’ll help you out.

For example. encouraging people to host Windows 7 parties was a good idea (if anybody actually did it), but the stuff you are putting out to sell it is dismal. I got some early POS that says you can switch between tasks or find things on your PC, or even just ‘Your PC, simplified’, then there are TV ads that say, ‘I invented 7’. These are not going to convince anybody.

Let’s see it do things. Show the new features turning into great benefits.

And for everybody else, if your own advertising says, ‘shop here because we’re better’ you should save your money and not bother.

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So whether you buy them in pallet loads, 40ft containers or just packs of 50, you can rest assured knowing that everytime you offer your customers Greenpod’s Planet Friendly blank media you're helping them do their bit for the planet and their pocket too. If you would like to know more about how we achieve low-zero carbon footprint please visit the “planet friendly” page on our website. Greenpod – Price & Planet Friendly.

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MARKETPLACE

Asus reveals new HD media player O!Play device wirelessly streams digital content six times faster than USBs and offers ‘world first’ shuffle ability ASUS HAS unveiled a new media player that allows users to access all their digital content wirelessly.

The O!Play Air HDP-R3 HD streams various audio, photo and high-definition video formats from PCs, network access storage, card readers and other USB or eSATAconnected devices.

The HDP-R3 inherits premium HD playback features and wide file format support from its predecessor, the O!Play HDP-R1, but also offers new networking features and memory slots.

Now with wi-fi support, the device can wirelessly stream content from PCs or NAS, and Asus says developments are underway to integrate internet services too.

The built-in card readers allow users to instantly view images from Compact Flash and SD cards or memory sticks.

They will be prompted on whether they

86 PCR December

want to save their photos into another storage device, and also have the option of organising their photos.

The HDP-R3 claims to be the first HD media player with a dedicated music shuffle button. Located on its remote control, users can press the button and the device will retrieve stored songs and play them in random order.

The eSATA interface gives users a transfer speed up to six times faster than a USB 2.0 connection, while LAN support allows fast streaming and decoding of media files from various devices.

“The HDP-R3 claims to be the first HD media player with a dedicated music shuffle button.

When users press it, the device will retrieve stored songs and play them in random order”

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MARKETPLACE

AVG releases two new business security products

The new anti-virus and antispyware software packages from AVG claim to scan systems 50 per cent faster than previous versions

Both products run twice as fast as previous editions AVG TECHNOLOGIES has released two new software packages for small businesses – the AVG Internet Security Business Edition 9.0 and AVG AntiVirus Business Edition 9.0.

According to AVG, the two products scan systems up to 50 per cent faster than previous versions.

The combined anti-virus and antispyware scanner uses intelligent technology to mark files as safe or potentially unsafe during its initial scan, so it can ignore them later unless the file structure changes.

The two packages also use signaturebased protection to deal with known threats, as well as cutting-edge

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behavioural, in-the-cloud and white listing technologies to manage threats.

The updated firewall application is quieter and less intrusive than previous versions. The new trusted application database enables the software to determine the safety of any active process and block those deemed unsafe, without user intervention. AVG also says the firewall offers more accurate threat detection, thanks to unique behavioural detection technology.

Thanks to AVG’s recent acquisition of Sana Security, Internet Security Business Edition 9.0 now has added data protection technology, which learns the DNA of a network so it can recognise

anomalies and block malicious software before it can cause any damage. Identity protection is manageable from the administrator’s console or can be completely silent.

Anti-Virus Business Edition 9.0’s new client email scanner cleans the mailing system of dangerous attachment links, while the enhanced anti-spam filter prevents phishing emails and spam from clogging the server.

December PCR 87

YOUR ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO SERVICE COMPANIES

sourcebook WWW.INTENTMEDIA.CO.UK/SOURCEBOOK

creative and promotional SErvices 3DI Tel: 0845 4582898 www.threedi.net

Indigo Pearl Tel: +44 (0)20 8964 4545 www.indigopearl.com

The Audio Guys Ltd Tel: +44 (0) 1926 813546 www.theaudioguys.co.uk

AN.X Ltd. Tel: 020 7785 7156 www.anxagency.com

JR DESIGN Tel: +44 (0) 7824 506436 www.joeryandesign.co.uk

The Pixel Tel: 0800 043 1040 www.thepixel.com

Ark VFX Ltd. Tel: 0114 268 4999 www.arkvfx.net

Media Safari PR Tel: +44 (0)1225 471 202 www.mediasafari.co.uk

Über Tel: 0114 278 7100 www.uberagency.com

Barrington Harvey Tel: +44 (0)1462 456780 www.bhpress.co.uk

More Creative Tel: 020 7561 6010 www.morecreative.co.uk

gaming accessorieS

Bastion Tel: +44 (0)20 7421 7600 www.bastion.co.uk

Multiplay Tel: +44 (0)20 7100 1337 www.multiplay.co.uk

Gfk Chart-Track Ltd Tel: +44 (0) 20 8741 7585 www.chart-track.com

Parker Consulting Ltd Tel: 07771571639 www.parkerconsulting.biz

Dilute Recordings Tel: 01483 306834 www.diluterecordings.com

PMA Marketing Tel: 020 7483 0568 www.pmamarketing.com

Eye-D Creative Ltd Tel: +44 (0)20 7407 1440 www.eye-dcreative.co.uk

RAINBOW PRODUCTIONS Tel: +44 (0)20 8254 5300 www.rainbowproductions.co.uk

FEREF Tel: +44 (0)207 292 6330 www.feref.com

RealtimeUK Tel: 01772 682 363 www.realtimeuk.com

FINK Creative Ltd Tel: 01480 302350 www.finkcreative.com

Richard Jacques Studios Tel: 07831 756977 www.richardjacques.com

Fluid Tel: +44 (0)121 212 0121 www.fluidesign.co.uk

Shorewood.Blueprint Tel: 020 7183 9666 www.shorewood-blueprint.com

Freeform.London Tel: 020 7183 6664 www.freeformlondon.co.uk

Side Tel: +44 (0) 207 631 4800 www.side.com

Frontroom Tel: 020 7384 5400 www.frontroom.com

SKYSKRAPER® Tel: +44 (0)20 7252 3288 www.skyskraper.net

Game Frontier Ltd Tel: 0870 420 2424 www.gamefrontier.com

Studio CO2 Tel: +44 (0) 1483 414 415 www.studioco2.com

AntiGrav Media Ltd Tel: 01932 454929 www.antigrav-media.co.uk Hubb Accessories Tel: 01642 204343 www.playwithhubb.com Logic3 plc Tel: 01923 471000 www.logic3.com Pebble Entertainment GmbH Tel: +49 (231) – 477 927 0 www.pebble-entertainment.com/en Pinpoint Consumer Elec.

Tel: +44 (0) 1606 558 428 www.pinpointce.co.uk

international distribution ComputerLand doo Tel: +381 11 309 95 95 www.computerland.rs CURVEBALL LEISURE Tel: 01792 652521 www.thegamecollection.net Funtastic Tel: +61 3 9419 5444 www.funtastic.com.au GameStreamer, Inc. Tel: 001-813-527-0383 www.gamestreamer.net

LO

TO BE INCLUDED IN THIS

In association with

Tel: +44 1 480 210 621 www.usspeaking.com

LOCALISTATION QA AND TESTING

legal services

4-Real Intermedia GmbH Tel: +49 (0) 69809088 - 0 www.4-real.com

Orange Studio Tel: +39 051 588 04 50 www.orangestudio.it

Harbottle & Lewis Tel: +44 (0)207 667 5000 www.harbottle.com

Absolute Quality Tel: +44 (0)141 220 5600 www.absolutequality.com

Partnertrans Tel: +44 1753 247731 www.partnertrans.com

Marriott Harrison Tel: +44 (0)20 7209 2000 www.marriottharrison.co.uk

ANAKAN GmbH Tel: +49 (0) 30531420450 www.anakan.de

PlayableGames Tel: 020 7421 6487 www.playablegames.net

software development

Babel Tel: 01273 764100 www.babelmedia.com

Testronic Laboratories Ltd Tel: +44 (0)1753 653722 www.testroniclabs.com

Cenega Poland Sp.Zo.o Tel: +48 22 574 2578 www.cenega.com

Universaly Speaking Tel: +44 1 480 210621 www.usspeaking.com

Enzyme Labs Tel: +1 (450) 229-9999 ext.312 www.enzyme.org

U-TRAX Tel: +31 30 293 2098 www.utrax.com

ChaYoWo Games Tel: +1 917.650.0010 www.chayowogames.com Crytek UK Tel: +44 115 949 0808 www.crytek.com Data Design Interactive Tel: +44 0 1384 44 79 00 www.datadesign.uk.com xaitment GmbH Tel: +49 (0) 6897-600 80-0 www.xaitment.com

manufacturing services Arvato digital services Tel: 0121 502 7800 www.arvatodigitalservices.com

OK Media Tel: +44 (0) 20 7688 6789 www.okmedia.com

DISCHROMATICS LTD Tel: 01495 243222 www.dischromatics.co.uk

Technicolor Tel: 0208 987 7829 www.technicolor.com

MPO UK Tel: +44 (0) 20 8956 2727 www.mpo-international.com

The Producers Limited Tel: 0845 234 2444 www.theproducers.co.uk

Multi Media Replication Ltd Tel: +44(0) 1264 336330 www.replication.com

Total Console Repair Ltd Tel: 08719 181 721 www.totalconsolerepair.co.uk

uk distribution and logistics Discstribution Tel: + 44 (0) 845 4308735 www.discstribution.com EntaTech Tel: 0333 101 1000 www.entaonline.com Gem Tel: 01279 822822 www.gem.co.uk Meroncourt Europe Ltd Tel: +44 (0) 1462 680060 www.trade.meroncourt.co.uk

recruitment Aardvark Swift Tel: 01709 876877 www.aswift.com

Game Options Ltd Tel: +44 (0)1382 731909 www.gameops.co.uk

Amiqus Tel: 01925 252588 www.amiqus.com/games

Specialmove Consultancy Ltd Tel: +44 (0) 141 585 6491 www.specialmove.com

Trilogy Logistics Ltd Tel: 0845 456 6400 www.trilogy-uk.com

GUIDE PLEASE CONTACT: ROB.BAKER@INTENTMEDIA.CO.UK OR 01992 535647

MARKETPLACE

90 PCR December

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MARKETPLACE

Sitecom unveils Home Storage Center Central backup hub allows users to access files from anywhere in the world “When combined with Sitecom’s TV Media Player, the user can access digital movies, music and photos saved on the Home Storage Center on a TV without the need for a computer”

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DUTCH IT VENDOR Sitecom has introduced the latest addition to its Smart Living range, the MD-253 Home Storage Center.

As the name suggests, the MD-253 is aimed at home users, allowing them to save digital photos, music and films in a central location and share them with other users on the network.

Consumers can create public accounts, as well as personal ones which require a username and password to access private data and files.

The Home Storage Center automatically creates a duplicate of

digital files that are saved on PCs and notebooks on the network, so that there is always a backed-up record of recent files. Content from external hard drives or USB sticks can also be copied. This can be done simply by clicking on the ‘backup’ button.

The device’s two drive bays allow users to insert 3.5 SATA II hard disks without using any tools, while the gigabit network port guarantees high speed when reading and writing data.

The built-in FTP server means that users can access saved files via the internet from any location.

The product also features a number of eco credentials. The energy-efficient fan automatically adjusts its speed depending on the temperature, while the device’s ‘link down’ feature puts the hard disks into stand-by mode if they are not accessed.

When combined with Sitecom’s TV Media Player, the user can access digital movies, music and photos saved on the Home Storage Center on a TV without the need for a computer.

The Home Storage Center can be purchased with or without a one TB hard disk through Meroncourt.

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‘Disaster proof’ hard drive arrives Ultra-durable hard drive can withstand extreme high temperatures and be underwater for three days STORAGE SOLUTION manufacturer 1550°F for half an hour and is ioSafe has launched its ‘disaster proof’ waterproof to ten feet of fresh or salt external hard drive in the UK. water for three whole days.

With capacities from 500GB to The Solo, which weighs just 6.8kg, 1.5TB, the ioSafe Solo is designed for also works in up to 80 per cent nonboth home users and “The ioSafe Solo is condensing businesses wanting humidity and can fireproof up to 1550°F be bolted or extra security and for half an hour and chained for security protection for their files and documents. waterproof to ten feet against theft.

The device uses ‘FloSafe’ air flow of fresh or salt water ioSafe’s patented cooling allows for three days” technology such as almost silent HydroSafe waterproof barriers and the operation during normal use, while the DataCast fireproof insulation, making USB 2.0 interface means it works via it resistant to a range of extreme Plug and Play with any PC or Mac. conditions. According to the vendor, it The ioSafe Solo is distributed in the is fireproof up to a temperature of UK by The Tech Bag.

The ioSafe Solo is resistant to extreme conditions such as fire and water, and will work in up to 80 per cent non-condensing humidity

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December PCR 93

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Verbatim launches Bluetooth audio player

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Device compatible with mobile phones, MP3 players and notebooks, has eight-metre range STORAGE AND peripherals vendor Verbatim has launched the Bluetooth Audio Cube, a speaker which streams music from any Bluetooth-enabled device.

The compact and lightweight Audio Cube is just 7cm cubed and runs on AA batteries, making it easily transportable. It has a wireless range of up to eight metres.

The Audio Cube can be used with a range of devices from mobile phones to MP3 players to laptops and, once connected, the buttons on the speaker can be used to control music playback.

The device also comes with a conventional 3.5mm audio cable, which allows it to be plugged into non-Bluetooth devices and used as a traditional stereo speaker.

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Mats Nordin, business development manager of Verbatim Europe, said: “The Audio Cube demonstrates the commitment that Verbatim has to making the ‘digital lifestyle’ easy. We will continue to expand our range of this type of product with a focus on products that provide convenience, ease of use and a great experience.”

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...still the best in CPU liquid cooling

Trust unveils its new headset duo New headset ranges with enhanced chat features and maximum comfort for online gaming use PERIPHERALS vendor Trust has and Live Messenger,” said Hayley launched two new headsets, the Como Whybrow, Trust’s PR and marketing and Comfortline. assistant. “They will build on the Both products have an ergonomic existing range of Trust gaming and design with a soft chat headsets that padded headband “The headsets have a are currently and cushioned ear comfortable design available, and they pads, designed for are also great for and are aimed at lengthy gaming or listening to music gamers for online chat sessions. in comfort.” gaming and anyone The Como has a The earphones foldable design with using chat apps such have special drivers an integrated that make gun shot as Skype and volume control in noises and special Live messenger” the left ear pad, effects sounds more while the realistic, while the Comfortline has a sturdy aluminium flexible microphones use noise headband. suppression to transmit the user’s voice “The headsets have a comfortable more clearly to their chat partner. Both design and are aimed at gamers for headsets have integrated remote controls online gaming sessions and anyone that can be used to turn off the using chat applications such as Skype microphone.

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ABBYY presents FineReader 10 Software allows users to turn images and PDFs into Word files without wasting time reformatting SOFTWARE DEVELOPER ABBYY document, eliminating the need for has released FineReader 10, an optical retyping or reformatting. character recognition (OCR) package FineReader’s Advanced Digital Camera for individuals and businesses, which OCR for standard and mobile cameras turns scanned documents and images recognises digital photos of documents, into editable text. using enhanced imageThe software correction and processing “Its adaptive document facilities to improve noise, transforms recognition technology blurriness and distortion. documents into allows users to access Microsoft Word Its language detection information locked on and intelligent and Excel files or searchable PDFs, paper, unsearchable proofreading tools save with up to 99 per PDFs and digital images” users from manually cent accuracy. Its processing files. Preadaptive document defined ‘Quick Tasks’ recognition technology allows users to automatically do most typical OCR access information locked on paper, jobs by converting documents directly unsearchable PDFs and digital images. from Microsoft Office.

Format points such as tables of Documents can be saved as contents, hierarchical headings, searchable PDFs or PDF/As and footnotes, page numbers, captions and protected with passwords or font styles are carried over into the new compressed to a file size of 1:10.

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December PCR 97

MARKETPLACE RECOMMENDED

SONY VAIO VPC-L11S1E/S FOR ALL THE advances in PC technology over the past few decades, the humble mouse appears in little danger of becoming extinct anytime soon. Other control methods have plugged away with limited success, and the most promising of these right now looks to be touch. Indeed, where Microsoft’s previous operating systems relegated touch to little more than a novelty, Windows 7 finally brings it to the fore, and Sony has harnessed its potential with the VAIO VPCL11S1E/S. We’ve seen some stunning all-inone PCs in our time, but this Sony is the best. Heave it from its box and its weighty, solid build reassures from the off.

It’s the display that raises the Vaio above the opposition. The patented X-Black glossy finish might be dogged by reflectivity, but fire

“The Sony VAIO is ready for pretty much any task you throw at it. Its looks are complemented by an equally stunning high definition display, and the multi-touch capability is a fine match for Windows 7. It’s an expensive, luxurious, hands-on triumph” up a Blu-ray movie and the immense brightness and vibrancy allay any concerns. Its 24-inch splendour is matched by a full HD native resolution and superb image quality, with dual backlights making beautiful colours and fantastic contrast levels. Whether images are moving or still, the Sony imparts them with a depth that has to be seen to be believed.

It isn’t cheap, but with a generous core specification, the Sony VAIO VPC-L11S1/E is ready for pretty much any task you throw at it. Its looks are complemented by an equally stunning high definition display, and the multitouch capability is a fine match for Windows 7. It’s an expensive, luxurious, hands-on triumph.

[

]

URL: www.sony.co.uk SRP: £1,399

The Sony Vaio is glossy in a patented X-Black finish and comes in a 24-inch screen

PALM PRE

IT LOOKED as if Palm had struck smartphone gold when it showcased the Palm Pre for the first time at CES in January. Here was a phone, complete with what appeared to be an iPhone-rivalling OS, but with proper, grown-up multitasking and no iTunes lock-in.

It’s a clever system, but not without its annoyances.

Fortunately, the core applications themselves all work fantastically well. The device supports Microsoft Exchange email accounts, the usual POP3 and IMAP, as well as specific email servers such as Gmail, Yahoo and Hotmail, and adding accounts is as easy as pie. We particularly like the integration between social networking, email and contacts apps.

Despite the fact that these are accessed separately, they’re able to share

98 PCR December

information. For instance, pictures of people you’re friends with on Facebook will turn up in your contacts list.

It has its strengths and these lie in its ability to combine contacts, messages and calendar information from multiple sources, its fantastic web browsing ability and its treatment of multitasking. But it does have weaknesses: stuttering speeds, less than alluring hardware, a sometimes confusing OS, and poor battery life. Palm’s baby is bound to gain a following, especially among those who can’t stand Apple’s iTunes lock-in.

But it comes with the same pricing structure as the iPhone 3GS, and isn’t significantly better – it fails to topple Apple’s finest as a result.

“Palm Pre supports Microsoft Exchange email accounts, the usual POP3 and IMAP, as well as specific email servers such as Gmail, Yahoo and Hotmail”

[

URL: www.palm.com SRP: £97

]

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MARKETPLACE

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December PCR 99

OUT OF OFFICE

THE IT CROWD

THIS MONTH: The DADIs hit Leeds and Gigabyte holds a tweaking contest

THE NEXT BILL GATES Nottingham-based IT distributor XMA has teamed up with Toshiba to search for the UK’s answer to Microsoft founder Bill Gates.

The Next Bill Gates competition is open to anyone of any age, who is starting University in 2010 and considers themselves to be an IT whiz kid, like Gates.

The winner will walk away with around £3,500 worth of tuition fees, a Toshiba laptop, a summer placement with XMA, and the services of a mentor for their first year at university.

Entries will be judged by a panel of technology and media experts including the Guardian’s technology correspondent Bobbie Johnson, XMA’s business development director Guy Bates and Doug Richard, formerly a star of Dragons’ Den.

A REWARDING MONTH FOR WIDGET Widget UK’s executive chairman Mark Needham was named East of England’s Entrepreneur of the Year at this year’s British Chambers of Commerce Awards.

According to the judges, Widget impressed with its ability to capitalise on new trends.

John Dunsmure, managing director of the British Chambers of Commerce said: “Despite the difficult economic climate, businesses across the country are continuing to succeed, overcoming obstacles by adopting innovative ideas and motivating their people. This company is a great example of the very best of UK business.”

Widget also came 38th in the 2009 Technology Fast 50 awards, a ranking of the UK’s fastest growing technology companies by accountants Deloitte.

100 PCR December

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OUT OF OFFICE

Send your pictures to: andrew.wooden@intentmedia.co.uk

A day in thDeirectlori,fe les Steve Walsh, Sa Meroncourt

WHO’S THE DADI? November saw the Drum Awards for the Digital Industries hit the Leeds Royal Armouries.

Advertising firm BJL took home the Chairman's Award, while Tony Fogget, CEO of marketing company Code Computerlove, was named DADI Individual of the Year.

“The day is taken up with talking to our suppliers, talking to customers – just generally talking! Problem is, I never know when to shut up”

A TWEAK KING IS BORN Taiwan-based Gigabyte held the world’s first tweaking competition in Paris, which saw 20 teams from 22 European countries fight for the title of Gigabyte Tweak King.

Team Czech came top, followed by Team Belgium in second place and Team Latvia/Estonia in third. According to the firm, tweaking is distinguished from overclocking by the 4GHz CPU limitation. Turkey took the prize in the 3D Mark 2001 category, where contestants overclocked the graphics and memory to boost 3D performance.

Above left: Team Czech, Obr and Vik, were awarded the top prize at what Gigabyte hopes will be the first of many international tweaking events

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IT’S USUALLY an early start so I can get things sorted before the day-to-day business gets underway. It gives me time to catch up on the overnight emails and read through any internal documents which need a response. It’s a really efficient use of time, but it can be difficult leaving the house on these dark mornings.

We have our daily sales meeting first thing, which is usually fairly brief, but we discuss new ideas, new opportunities and any problems. The meeting usually results in some actions for me, which I try to do as soon as the meeting is over.

The rest of the day is then taken up with all general management issues, talking with accounts and logistics, talking to our UK suppliers, talking to customers – just generally talking! Problem is, I never know when to shut up.

Most days I work with our PR agency, discussing press reviews, press tours and basically how much we are getting our brands and products into the trade and public arenas.

The last year has shown just how important it is consolidate the business and look at ways of working smarter. The staff here are brilliant and their input into the development of the business is invaluable, so I spend time with individuals discussing various projects and new ideas which will drive our business forward. I plan customer visits with them on a very regular basis so we can push Meroncourt further into the market.

Then it’s away for about 5.30pm and generally some time at home looking at customer websites to see how our products are doing and what our competitors are up to.

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OUT OF OFFICE

In the

HOT SEAT This month Faye Le Duc, a PR and marketing consultant for Immacula, tells us about herself...

“

Quote

UNQUOTE "In the next few years I know I'll be watching my favourite golfer, Tiger Woods, play in a tournament and I'll see him hit a particularly brilliant shot… I'll shout at my television set, 'Hey Bill, did you see Tiger make that putt?' and Microsoft software will wake up in the TV, it will recognise my voice, it will know when I say 'Bill' I mean Bill Gates, it'll find him wherever he is, it will see whether he's willing to be interrupted for the call… He'll say, 'Of course, for Steve I'm always able to be interrupted'."

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer tells a news conference in Tokyo about his vision for the future, in which we will all be shouting at our televisions “One lady said, ‘But I’ve got my pencil and paper.’ Well, of course, but you can’t use that to email somebody in Canada.”

TV presenter Valerie Singleton describes one woman’s response to her new PC for the elderly

Describe yourself in three words.

Happy, active, resourceful.

How do you relax away from work?

As a self-confessed socialite, my perfect evening/weekend consists of catching up with good friends over a bottle or two of red, attempting to cook without poisoning anyone, and hitting the gym when I am motivated enough.

What's your favourite book/film/album?

Book: Twilight Film: 24 – not technically a film, but as a loyal Jack Bauer fan I had to get it in there somewhere Album: Kasabian - Kasabian What was your first computer?

A black one? I have no idea...

What's your best memory from working in the industry?

Finally achieving my long term goal and moving into PR, working with my closest friends in the industry. It was a tough journey but I stayed motivated and it all paid off.

Who's the funniest person you've ever met?

My friend Kate, she has me in stitches on a daily basis and a night out with her is guaranteed giggles.

What did you want to do when you were younger?

I always thought I would end up in the theatre or media if someone told me I'd end up in the IT Industry I'd have laughed at them.

When were the 'good old days'?

Definitely the past year and now. I don’t think anyone will ever accuse me of wasting my mid-twenties!

102 PCR December

“It’ll find Bill Gates wherever he is. He’ll say, ‘Of course, for Steve I’m always able to be interrupted’.”

"The world of hackers is a separate, parallel culture that is mostly ignored by the church, but not by fans of information technology."

The Vatican's Pontifical Council for Social Communications talks to The Daily Telegraph ahead of the European Episcopal Commission for Media’s meeting with representatives from Facebook, Google and YouTube “Learning from the brain is an attractive way to overcome power and density challenges faced in computing. As the digital and physical worlds continue to merge, it’s imperative that we create a more intelligent computing system that can help us make sense the vast amount of information, that's increasingly available to us, much the way our brains can quickly interpret and act on complex tasks.”

Josephine Cheng, IBM Fellow and lab director of IBM Research-Almaden, claims computers need to be more like the human brain. Cue inevitable analogies to The Terminator's Skynet

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