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Contents Pg 8 D-Link - Making an impact Sakkeer Hussain, Sales & Marketing Manager at DLink Middle East & Africa speaks abou the agenda at GITEX and the promotions Pg 12 Empa Building the momentum Shahood Khan, Sales and Marketing Director at Empa Middle East speaks about some of the trends seen in the categories that they deal with as well as how the brands they distribute are faring Pg 15 Cyberoam Branching out into new vistas Hemal Patel, CEO at Elitecore technologies which owns the Cyberoam brand speaks with VAR Magazine in the following interview Pg 18 Belkin Multiple offerings Youssef El-Arif, National Account Manager, MEA at Belkin speaks exclusively about the company’s initiatives in the year
Publisher: Vivek Sharma Managing Editor: R. Narayan Art Director: Faiz Ahmed Sales Director: Alishan Zaidi Sales Coordinator: Smita Jithesh
Pg 22 Sitecom Making a splash Khalaf bin Saif Al Otaiba, Group CEO at Al Otaiba Group of Companies speaks about the growing appeal of Sitecom as a networking brand with the region’s consumers Pg 26 Fujitsu Sumo sized savings for consumers at Shopper Pg 29 Touchmate Regional manufacturer offers tablet Showcase D-Link Empa Cyberoam Belkin Sitecom Fujitsu Touchmate
Published by VAR Magazine Office no:31, Mezzanine Floor, Al Durrah Tower Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Disclaimer: While the publishers have made every attempt possible to get accurate information on published content in this handbook they cannot be held liable for any errors herein.
Overview | Gitex
Meeting Great Expectations Manufacturers bring out their latest innovations to meet rising consumer expectations.
Every year, GITEX Trade exhibition and GITEX Shopper continues to defy the challenges, getting stronger as well in the bargain. A week of GITEX definitely adds further perspective to the collective understanding of directions for the industry. The beehive like activity serves up opportunities for numerous discussions between vendors, partners, potential customers and other participants and helps build a renewed momentum. In addition, the consumer variant of the trade expo, the GITEX Shopper livens up the regional consumer spending in IT with numerous bargains offers available on purchases. While cloud computing grabs the headlines at the trade expo, at the Ů?hopper it would all be about the best devices at the discounted prices. The rise in number of exhibitors and the expected anticipated increase in the number of visitors are certainly good signs that this region’s industry is continuing to show resilience amidst the slowdown in many markets worldwide. 4
October 2011
Price cuts and aggressive promotions have fuelled rising sales of notebooks, tablets, accessories, smartphones and so on. The trend can be expected to continue. While overall margins may be hurt, the volume of the shipments of computers and related categories are definitely on the rise. Tablets have become more affordable and for those unwilling to invest in an iPad 2 or a Galaxy Tab, there always several cheaper options from other manufacturers. In fact there are a few regional brands as well serving up their own tablet variants and while they may not deliver the performance of an Ipad 2 or its closest competitors, they do offer very reasonably priced alternatives and with acceptable functionalities. Networking devices for soho and
home users seem to be amongst the categories to watch. Among the products that deserve attention is Sitecom’s new range of routers offering cloud based security. More devices could be introduced offering cloud based services as an add-on. The UTM manufacturer Cyberoam is making a dramatic entry into the home and soho router market with their NetGenie series, which includes security features as well. This is perhaps an indication that manufactures are willing to incorporate features which were usually found in Business class or premium end devices into products targeting home users as well. It is an acceptance of the fact that the expectations of users from products they buy
Overview | Gitex
In displays, LED monitors will continue to make headway as the price differential between them and LCD monitors narrows down. In printers, further prevalence of web enabled options for printing as well as secure access would be among the defining trends.
have definitely gone up several notches. Product differentiation is necessary to build and sustain market share in any segment. D-Link is also unleashing several new products inclusive of the ‘Whole Home router, promising extensive coverage across a floor with its Smart Beam technology to its range of surveillance products including the full HD Day & Night WDR Network Camera that captures video in both dark and light environments.
wave that tablets unleashed seems to be the netbook. There is not much talk about the category from PC manufacturers. The impact of tablets on netbooks has been quite significant. According to IHS iSuppli, netbook shipments are set to decline to 21.5 million units in 2011, down 33.2 percent from 32 million in 2010. Shipments are expected to continue to decrease during the coming years and will dwindle to 13.5 million units in 2015.
Consumerisation of IT has been no passing trend. Today home users are more savvy users of several form factors of IT devices and more among them are living a further enhanced version of the original digital home vision. From Internet smart TVs to tablets, NAS devices, IP cameras, smartphones and other handy digital gear, consumers don’t seem to have enough of devices they want to own. One of the silent fallouts of the
However, the Ultrabook built on Intel’s variant vision of a MacBookAir like slim notebook is set to make a splash. As has been the case in the past several years with emergence of several sub-categories and being successful as well, the Ultrabook is also likely to see substantial acceptance. The advent of Ultra slim notebooks could spur new purchases by professional as well as home users.
An average individual is now comfortable to the idea of owning multiple computing devices for different occasions. A fully featured notebook, a tablet PC as well as a smartphone may define some of the essential gear that a tech savvy consumer already owns or is aspiring to. In addition, at workplace or in the home, ease of connectivity options via wireless as well as secure access define his needs. Storage options in terabytes for the data he or she want to backup or store plus other add on options could further extend these needs and rounds up requthe ever growing addressable consumer markets. Manufacturers need to bet on the right form factors at the opportune moment to have a fair share of the market before the market moves on. Through further innovations, they need to continue raising the bar and keep moving into newer vistas to be in step or ahead of ever rising consumer expectations.
October 2011
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Market Trends
Despite Media Tablet Inroads, The Notebook PC Lives On Although the media tablet war has inflicted an early casualty on the mobile PC industry with the demise of the netbook, the overall notebook market will live to fight another day, with shipments rising by 100 million units by 2015 partly because of the rising sales of PC tablets, according to new IHS iSuppli Compute Platforms Service research from information and analysis provider IHS (NYSE: IHS). Worldwide notebook unit shipments are expected to rise to 324.9 million in 2015, up 104.8 million from 220.1 million in 2011. Although annual notebook shipment growth will slow during the coming years because of rising tablet competition, the notebook market will continue to expand because of the key role that the platform plays among businesses and consumers. Tablets Battle Notebooks for Consumer Mind Share Thanks to its strong brand image as well as astute product and price positioning, Apple’s iPad has enjoyed overwhelming success. As a result, the global media tablet market has exceeded growth expectations since tablets were released to
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the market at the beginning of the second quarter of 2010. IHS predicts global media tablet shipments will reach 60 million units in 2011, up 245.9 percent from 17.4 million in 2010. Shipments are expected to increase to 275.3 million in 2015. Tablets go PC Ironically, the notebook market is expected to find some solace from the onslaught of media tablets in an unlikely place: the PC tablet. PC tablets are slate or convertible/hybrid tablets that incorporate a full PC operating system such as Windows 7 or Linux. Unlike the great success of the media tablet, the PC tablet to date has only gained limited penetration into the mainstream
350, 000
business segment as an alternative to the notebook PC, along with small success in vertical markets including medical, logistics and education. However, the launch by Microsoft Corp. of its new Windows 8 operating system in late 2012 will boost the acceptance of the PC tablet in the enterprise segment as well as the consumer market, because of its compatibility with current PC applications and other PC platforms. As such, IHS predicts that growth of PC tablets will begin to accelerate in 2013—one year after Windows 8 is released—with shipments of 10 million units. PC tablet shipments then are expected to nearly quintuple by 2015, reaching 45.2 million units.
Worldwide Notebook PC Unit Shipment Forecast (Thousands of Units)
300, 000 250,000 200,000 150,000 100,000 50,000 -
2010
2011
2013
2015
Source: IHS iSuppli September 2011
Spotlight | D-Link
Information Security
Making an impact Sakkeer Hussain Sales & Marketing Manager, D-Link MEA D-Link Middle East & Africa is showcasing their latest technological developments for consumers and businesses. D-Link booth is located in Za’abeel Hall, Stand Z-D20 at the Dubai World Trade Center. D-Link ‘s showcase includes plenty of new products both for consumers and businesses to be experienced live at its stand. Besides 3G/LTE products, the manufacturer has included media players, NAS solutions, chassis-switches and more in its showcase. Sakkeer Hussain, Sales & Marketing Manager at D-Link Middle East & Africa speaks about the agenda at GITEX and the promotions.
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Please discuss your participation at the show in terms of the agenda? With our GITEX presence this year we will be communicating D-Link as a true end-to-end networking solutions provider for businesses and SOHOs. Visitors are being introduced to D-Link’s digital home, business networking, 3G and Telecommunications solutions. We will be focusing on three key areas, namely consumer solutions, business solutions and structured cabling solutions. What specific activities are lined up in your particpation this year? We will conduct several attractive promotions during the GITEX period which will be held at GITEX shopper and in all major power retailers in the UAE. We will be showcasing more than 50 consumer products alone at our stand - besides many other
solutions for businesses and Telecommunication companies, which offers visitors a fantastic opportunity to get a hand on our latest technological innovations. Additionally, we are going to give away lots of attractive promotional items. Visitors can come to our GITEX stand and grab a gift bag containing plenty of informative brochures and free gift items. Last year, it was the Boxee that was the centre of your showcase. What new products would be the highlights this time around? We have plenty of new products in the categories LTE, 3G, myDlink-enabled IP cameras, PowerLine adapters and structured cabling solutions – a completely new product line in D-Link’s portfolio. Our myDLink enabled IP cameras are true Plug-and-Play solutions with zero or extremely easy configuration
Spotlight | D-Link
which allow our customers to access their digital life all from our intuitive, convenient mydlink website without the need to configure their routers to open up ports or remember hard-tomemorize Internet addresses. We will also be showcasing the new series of chassis switches, 10G network solutions and unified switches. On the mobility side we will be doing a demo on LTE and HSPA+ devices. Visitors will be excited to get to know about these solutions at the show. D-link is now emphasizing more on the smart home or the digital home concept. Would the digital home be of the showcase themes? At our stand we will have one area solely dedicated to D-Link’s digital home solutions. Visitors will get to know how a true digital home can be set up in their houses and how contemporary wireless technologies liberate mobile users and unclutter living spaces. The products shown at our stand will include media players, IP cameras, routers, NAS, access points and many others. Do you agree that this was a tough year? How has it been for D-link in the three quarters of the year in the region in terms of sales?
We are a company that has been growing year over year even in difficult times. The growth justifies real investment in the region in terms of infrastructure and human resources. D-Link Middle East & Africa is currently ready to double the warehousing facility and create a state-of-the-art demo/training center in Dubai by the end of this year. D-link has mostly been seen as a vendor largely meeting soho and SMB segment demand. Do you also offer products for the enterprise and if so, what is the channel for the enterprise market? D-Link is true end-to-end networking solutions provider, and even though we have always
switch solutions, like our chassis switches, or stackable Layer-2 and Layer-3 Switches to large organizations. D-Link enterprise solutions can be obtained through our network of certified system integrators. Has price war been a challenge in the networking market? With effective partner programs, channel promotions and better coordination with partners and distributors, D-Link as a vendor is in a good position in maintaining the different levels of partner pricing in all segments. Discuss if there are any new initiatives being rolled out for the channel?
D-Link is true end-to-end networking solutions provider, and even though we have always been perceived strongly in the SOHO and SMB market segments, we surely have plenty of great successes in the enterprise markets, too. been perceived strongly in the SOHO and SMB market segments, we surely have plenty of great successes in the enterprise markets, too. Over the last years we have had major success cases in the hospitality, government and educational sectors supplying our large-enterprise
We are constantly working on implementing attractive programs for our partners. These include partner training, certification and dedicated channel promotion and incentive programs.
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Product Showcase | D-Link
D-Link Whole Home Router 1000 Key features: • The D-Link Whole Home Router 1000 allows you to create reliable, high-speed connections to your wired and wireless devices. • It features 802.11n wireless with D-Link’s unique Smart Beam technology to provide wireless access to the Internet for your entire home or office. • It also includes four Gigabit LAN ports with easy to use port-based Quality of Service (QoS); simply plug in your wired devices in order of importance, and the Whole Home Router 1000 will automatically configure QoS for you. • This allows you to watch smooth streaming video on your media PC or game console while surfing the web or downloading files on a PC. • You can even connect a USB printer or storage drive and share it through D-Link’s Share Port feature. • By using D-Link’s unique Smart Antenna design, the Whole Home Router 1000 automati cally adjusts its coverage to provide an optimized connection for each authorized wireless client. • This extends coverage, minimizes interference, provides higher wireless speeds, and even helps save energy by adjusting the amount of power used for wireless connections. For more details, log on to www.dlink.com
DHP-500AV/DHP-501AV Key features: • DHP-500AV/DHP-501AV is a new D-Link Powerlinesolution compliant IEEE1901 data transmission speeds of up to 500Mbps. • This combination enables connectivity of networked devices in virtually any room while providing performance that brings rich content to streaming media, fast Internet access to PCs, handhelds, gaming, and VoIP. • Compliant IEEE1901 spec up to 500Mbps over your existing electrical wiring • One Gigabit port for connecting high speed device • Secure connection with the push of a button for one second • Power saving mode support For more details, log on to www.dlink.com 10
October 2011
Product Showcase | D-Link
Le Petit 3.75G Router
D-Link DCS-932/932L Key features: • Remotely monitor your home or office over the Internet • Includes D-ViewCam for multi-camera monitoring and management • Motion detection to trigger recording and send e-mail alerts • DDNS support for web ccess with an easy to remember domain name • Administrator/User password protection • UPnP support for network setup and configuration • 0 lux CMOS sensor for low light environments • MJPEG streaming for high- quality video • WPS support for easy net work setup • 802.11n wireless connectivity • Quickly access registered cameras via the Mydlink website (DCS-932L only) For more details, log on to www.dlink.com
Key features: • • • • •
Whether at home, in the office, or travel ing abroad, the DWR-510 provides reliable broadband connectivity for notebook users on the go. Maximum download speeds of up to 7.2 Mbps and uploads at up to 5.76 Mbps allow you to do more with your mobile connection than ever before. Just plug in the Le Petit Router and enjoy immediate access to 3G networks - anytime and anyhwere. The Le Petit Router supports the latest 3.75G High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA ) tech nology, which boosts the maximum uplink data rate to 5.76 Mbps and helps to reduce latency. 3.75G is also backwards compatible with 3.5G, 3G, and 2.5G technologies. The DWR-510 Le Petit Router also works as a Wi-Fi Router: connect it to a 3G network and wirelessly share your 3G Internet connection with any Wi-Fi capable PC or device.
ShareCenter Pulse Key features: • The ShareCenter Pulse, when used with internal SATA drives, enables homes and offices to share documents, music, photos, and videos across the network and on the Internet, so family members, friends, or employees can easily access them. • This device also allows for the creation of a central network point for backing up files and the built-in RAID 1 mirroring technology protects these files from drive failure. • This device can be used to stream music, photos, and videos to UPnP AV compatible network media players. • The ShareCenter Pulse includes a web file server which allows you to download your documents, photos, and other multimedia files from anywhere. For more details, log on to www.dlink.com October 2011
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Spotlight | EMPA
Building the momentum Shabood Khan Sales & Marketing Director, empa ME EMPA Middle East is a leading distributor that represent several top brands in the region across product categories from components to storage and notebooks as well as security. Shahood Khan, Sales and Marketing Director at Empa Middle East speaks about some of the trends seen in the categories that they deal with as well as how the brands they distribute are faring
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You have an extensive product line from notebooks, displays, drives to AV products. Discuss the product categories of immediate focus? Immediate focus is PDAs as both of our notebook vendors have launched top class PDA models. Next focus categories are storage especially Multimedia drives and large screen LED monitors. Discuss how enterprise drives from Toshiba are faring and your go to market strategy for these products? In this segment competition is low unlike the regular drive business, we are doing extremely well in KSA where Toshiba has got good brand pull in consumer market which we trying to leverage for enterprise HDD. Reliability is the key selling point for enterprise drive and Toshiba has almost nil RMA on their drives. Also the product line ups are very strong, Toshiba is
one of the first vendor to launch enterprise SSD. Is there a substantial price differential between LED and LCD monitors for PCs? How do you see the shift? At present, the price gap is narrowing faster than predicted. We have stopped selling LCDs and completely moved to LED range as we do not want our channel to have inventory issues due to decline in demand or price differential. How is the momentum building up as far as Fujitsu’s mobility products are concerned? Are they consumer or commercial product lines? Fujitsu is doing extremely well on both consumer and commercial product line. Demand for Fujitsu labtop has really picked up both in channel and retail market, mainly due to robust quality.
Product Showcase | EMPA
Over the past year or so, what is the momentum that Empa has been able to build on with Lavasoft in various market segments? We started building momentum by focusing in the retail segment, today you can find Lavsoft product with majority of retailer across GCC, this has given a good product visibility. Same time we did many product bundle with other product such as HDD, Notebook and high end USBs, thus generating a good end user demand. How do you summarise the growth performance over the year? We measure our growth/performance in terms of profit and ROI rather than sales revenue. On the basis of both of these KPIs, we are doing quite well.
Philips 23” LED ULTRASLIM Monitor (234CL2SB) Features: • 23” LED ULTRASLIM monitor • HDMI-ready for Full HD entertainment • Smart Response: 2 ms • Smart Contrast: 20,000,000:1 • Signal Input: VGA (Analog ), HDMI • Stylish design that complements any interior • Ultra Slim, sleek and modern
Toshiba 3.5-inch SATA Enterprise HDD (MK1002TSKB) Key Advantages:
Applications:
• Lowest Cost per GB Enterprise Storage • Up to 2 TB Capacity • Faster and more efficient 3.0 Gb/s SATA interface • Enhanced Power Condition State Technology • Rotational Vibration Technology for Multi-drive Systems • 24x7 Operation
• Cloud Storage • Data Centers • Entry level Servers • Network Attached Storage • Other business critical application
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Product Showcase | EMPA
Fujitsu Lifebook SH531
Lavasoft Ad-Adware Total Security
Lavasoft Ad-Aware Total Security
Features:
Tech Specifications: • Up to second generation Intel Core i5 proces sors and Intel® HD Graphics onboard • genuine Windows® 7 Professional • 33.8 cm (13.3-inch) 16:9 HD anti-glare LCD with LED backlight • Best connectivity with Intel® Centrino® 6205 802.11 a/b/g/n WLAN, Bluetooth®, Giga bit Ethernet LAN and a 34 mm ExpressCard slot for external UMTS solutions • Blu-ray Disc™ drive (optional) and HDMI port • 1.3 Mpix webcam, and digital microphone for video telephony without additional accessories
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• Complete malware protec tion, including anti-virus + anti-spyware • Ad-Watch Live! Expert real- time protection • Multi-layered detection technology • Expert level rootkit removal system • Do Not Disturb mode • The Scheduler • Firewall • Anti-spam • Phishing protection • Webmail protection • Instant messaging protection • Web surfing protection • System tuning • Parental control • Online backup • Data recovery • File Shredder • Automatic updates and free technical support
Features: • SandForce controller technology • High-speed SATA Rev 3.0 (6 Gb/s) transfer speeds • Performance — incredible speeds for advanced gaming, multitasking, and multime dia computing power • Reliable — much less likely to fail than a standard hard drive • Shock-Proof — dropping your notebook no longer means losing your data • Cool & Quiet — runs silent and with no moving mechanical parts to generate heat • Innovative — uses NAND Flash memory components • Supports S.M.A.R.T., TRIM, and Garbage Collection • Guaranteed — three-year Kingston® warranty, 24/7 tech support • Capacities2 — 120 GB, 240 GB
Spotlight | Cyberoam
Branching out into new vistas Hemal Patel CEO, Elitecore Technologies Cyberoam, one of the leading vendors in the UTM market, has announced its NetGenie series of routers for the home and soho markets. Hemal Patel, CEO at Elitecore technologies which owns the Cyberoam brand speaks with VAR Magazine in the following interview
Discuss your major plans at the GITEX showcase this year? GITEX is an important platform for Cyberoam and we look forward to showcasing our new product line at this important ICT gathering for the Middle East. With high internet penetration in the region, we expect to have a very positive response to the launch of our NetGenie routers that are aimed at the home and SOHO markets. We also have plans to sign up a new distributor for the region and build on our market share for both routers and UTM lines. Discuss your go to market strategy for your new line-up of routers? NetGenie is not just another router. It comes with online security, advanced Internet controls, 3G readiness, user-based reporting, and much more, in a single appliance. The product is an outcome of in-depth research on the Internet concerns of both
these segments and saves the cost of deploying separate solutions for separate needs of users. NetGenie is targeted at home and SOHO users through two separate NetGenie appliances. NetGenie Home is positioned as a Home Wireless Router with Family Protection while NetGenie SOHO is Unified Threat Management for SOHO. Besides other features, parents can set age-appropriate internet controls for their kids on a singleclick and also schedule the time they spend on a type of website. SOHO users can set Internet controls based on the level of Internet access desired for an employee. With Cyberoam’s leading position in the IT security industry, years of experience and rich knowledge of the security market, it was a natural progression for Cyberoam to launch a product like NetGenie. We have big plans in NetGenie’s roadmap October 2011
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Spotlight | Cyberoam
and are confident of solving the needs of users in this market with our offering. Does this also mean that Cyberoam from a network security appliance company is ready to transform into a networking vendor as well? NetGenie is an obvious evolution of Cyberoam’s extensive experience in the IT security market. NetGenie will provide enterpriselevel security to homes and small offices besides many other benefits. Apart from the routers, discuss other new launches at GITEX from your UTM range We are gradually entering into new generation of devices with
higher performance and better network throughput. New range of enterprise security devices are also in the pipeline. Is your market share largely in the SMB segment? How do you fare in the enterprise segment? We have had a clear and steady growth path and have gained a strong position in the SMB market.. Our strength is of an agile security vendor that pays attention to the needs of the end-user and addresses them systematically. Our bandwidth management, reporting and Identity based security have been very popular across all segments. This doesn’t mean Cyberoam is not an enterprise segment
player. We have UTM appliances such as CR1500ia for the enterprise segment, which touch upward of 2500 users. We have been touching the enterprise market and made successful inroads into the strategic accounts of governments, education, corporate, and other key sectors. In summary, to date how has the year been so far in terms of sales performance? 2011 has been an extremely positive year for Cyberoam. We have achieved over 70% of our yearly targets within Q1 and Q2. With our current launch plans for NetGenie and an additional distributor, we are hopeful of exponential business growth.
UTM solutions overview Cyberoam offers Identity-based Unified Threat Management Cyberoam Unified Threat Management appliances offer comprehensive security to small, medium and large enterprises through multiple security features like stateful inspection Firewall, Virtual Private Network, Intrusion Prevention System, Gateway Anti-Virus/Anti-Spyware, Gateway Anti-Spam, Application Visibility and Control, Web filtering, Bandwidth Management and on-appliance Reporting – on a single platform. These Cyberoam features ensure a balance of security, connectivity, productivity in organizations.
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Cyberoam is the first UTM that embeds user identity in the firewall rule matching criteria with its unique Layer 8 technology that treats USER as the 8th layer in the network stack. Also known as the Human layer, it penetrates through each of Cyberoam’s security modules, allowing organizations to create user identity-based security policies. This offers them complete visibility and control over user activities, showing who is doing what anywhere in the network and enables them to take network security decisions based on usernames and not just IP addresses. With its Extensible Security Architecture (ESA) and multi-core technology, Cyberoam ensures security against future threats to organizations.
Product Showcase | Cyberoam
Cyberoam NetGenie - overview Cyberoam NetGenie gives a truly enjoyable and safe Internet experience to home and Small Office, Home Office (SOHO) users. With features like Firewall, in-built Anti-Virus, Intrusion Prevention System, 3G Ready and advanced Internet Controls, Cyberoam NetGenie offers security over multiple Internet-access devices like desktops, laptops, PDA, smartphones, and more. NetGenie HOME Wireless Router with Family Protection Key features • Cyberoam NetGenie ensures security against viruses, botnet, intruders, and hackers when home users surf the Internet. • It enables parents to protect their kids from unsafe and adult Internet content. • NetGenie’s age-wise Parental Controls help them provide age-appropriate Internet access to kids on a single click. • Parents can schedule the time their kids spend on online activities like games, social networks and more. • NetGenie offers reports on kids’ Internet activities like websites visited, applications used, attempts made to visit blocked websites/applications along with virus and intrusion reports. For more details, log on to www.cyberoam.com
NetGenie SOHO Unified Threat Management Key features: • Cyberoam NetGenie’s pre-configured security settings offer Wi-Fi protection to small offices from unauthorized outsiders the moment NetGenie is turned on. • It offers protection to all online devices– laptops, desktops, iPhone, iPad, and more – from virus and hackers. • Small offices can control access to harmful and unproduc tive websites and applications like adult sites, job portals, sports sites Facebook, Skype, Yahoo Messenger and more to enhance security and productivity in their office. • NetGenie gives them the flexibility to set schedule-based access to specific websites and applications for users. • It offers real-time reports on the Internet usage and user activities in offices. For more details, log on to www.cyberoam.com October 2011
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Spotlight | Belkin
Multiple offerings Youssef El-Arif National Account Manager, MEA, Belkin Belkin continues to forge ahead with its multiple and diverse products. Youssef El-Arif, National Account Manager, MEA at Belkin speaks exclusively about the company’s initiatives in the year
Discuss some of the new products that would be showcased by partners as well as available at shoppers? We have launched a wide range of new products some of them will be showcased during this event and some will be showcased after GITEX. The recent products that have already hit this market are the iPad stylus. Instead of your finger you can use this cool black stylus featuring a soft rubber tip which imitates the touch of your finger against the screen of your iPad whilst keeping it completely fingerprint and scratch free. The AIRCAST CONNECT can be used to make calls and listen to your playlist through your car stereo. We have also unveiled the Keyboard Folio for iPad 2 and the Mini Dock for iPhone / iPod Charger Stand Discuss how the year has been in terms of sales of your networking products? Our networking category has
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been and still the #1 in terms of revenue and focus. September was our financial year end and just had a look at the figures compared to last year and the year before. Despite tough competition and the changes that happened in the market place, we were amazed to see that our networking sales was way more than what we have forecasted for that year. This give us a great confidence for the years to come as we are launching as well the new networking range which will definitely help us in growing faster. Belkin has launched an extensive lineup of ipad and iphone accessories. How successful has been the line-up? Indeed it was very successful, and still we are introducing new products. From cases to home chargers, car chargers, FM transmitter to all kind of apple accessories helped us to solidify our presence in this market and
Spotlight | Belkin
put us ahead of everyone else in terms of innovation and design. Our latest products are the Stylus, aircast connect,Keyboard folio for iPad2 and the mini dock for iPhone/iPod. Future products will be iPad2 accessories to be used in the kitchen and in the car and of course the long awaited iPhone 5 cases. Do networking products continue to be the strongest performing for you? We have seen an unbelievable growth in the mobility accessories. Having said that, we will have focus across the full category range such as networking, Laptop bags and accessories, cables, surge protectors, KVMs. I
believe that networking will still be our flagship category. Do you see consumers willing to invest more in accessories that further enrich their experience of the hardware product/device they already own? Absolutely, in my opinion consumers will buy accessories to reflect their personality and character. The device is same device that is used among everyone however accessories are what differentiate them from others and give them identity and of course facilitate the use of the hardware that they already have. For example, if they buy 1 iPhone, they buy multiple covers
having different colours and designs that they can use them in many situations. They buy a laptop and they want to have different carry cases to be used for different purposes (office, travel, home…). You are also launching products that suite different user profile types. Discuss if this has been one of your significant go to market strategies As a multi-category brand we aim to offer innovations designed to give computer and consumer electronics users seamless integration in their home, cars and on the go. We try to simplify the technology and enhance the lifestyle of the consumers.
Conserve Valet Key features: • The Conserve Valet Smart USB Charging Station lets you charge all of your mobile devices in one convenient place, and auto matically shuts off power—including standby power—after devices are fully charged. • It even senses when new devices are
added so you always get a full charge, and has an innovative cord management system to keep things neat. • Keep your devices ready to go, and save energy, too. For more details, log on to www.belkin.com
October 2011
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Product Showcase | Belkin
AirCast Auto HandsFree Key features: • Routes calls and music from a smartphone through car speakers • Seamlessly switches between calls and music • Embedded microphone mounts anywhere on the dashboard for the best voice pick-up • Bluetooth connects to smartphone • Aux-In connects to car stereo • Power adapter with USB port for charging • Nighttime illumination for better visibility • 1-Year Limited Warranty For more details, log on to www.belkin.com
Keyboard Folio for iPad 2 Key features • Built-in computer-style keyboard with tactile, well-spaced TruType keys • Function-specific keys for copying and pasting text, mod erating volume and controlling music • Unique tri-fold design tucks keyboard away and soft cover folds over to protect screen • Adjustable landscape screen angles for typing and viewing • Pairs with iPad through Bluetooth® • 60 hours active battery life, 2,000 hours standby battery life • Rechargeable using USB cable • Durable construction protects from scratches and scuffs • Premium, stitched exterior with a suede-like feel and smooth inner lining • Sleek design to minimize bulk • Camera lens cutout • 3-Year Limited Warranty For more details, log on to www.belkin.com 20
October 2011
Product Showcase | Belkin
Conserve Smart Key features: • Control power to 6 devices with your TV’s on/off button • Reduce standby power automatically • The Master Outlet senses when your TV is on or off and controls power to five peripheral outlets for your AV components. Two outlets stay on for devices that need continuous power, like DVRs. That’s smart power. Mini Dock Key features • Lightweight and compact • Easy to transport • Integrated ChargeSync cable with USB • Case-compatible • Adjustable viewing angle • USB cable included • 1 year limited warranty For more details, log on to www.belkin.com
Conserve Switch
Key features: • Surge Protector with Remote • Control power to your computer system • Wireless remote works up to 60 feet away • Reduce standby power For more details, log on to www.belkin.com
October 2011
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Spotlight | Sitecom and Al Otaiba
Making a splash Khalaf bin Saif Al Otaiba Group CEO, Al Otaiba Group Sitecom has unveiled new generation routers offering cloud security. Khalaf bin Saif Al Otaiba, Group CEO at Al Otaiba Group of Companies speaks about the growing appeal of Sitecom as a networking brand with the region’s consumers
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October 2011
Discuss the highlights of the new cloud solution enabled products from Sitecom? The Sitecom Cloud Security unique and exclusive feature at selected Sitecom Wireless Broadband Routers as well as Modem Routers, have created new era in internet home security. I strongly claim that Sitecom is the ONLY brand in the market today with Unified Threat Management (UTM) designed and developed for home users. The revolutionary Sitecom Cloud Security meant to protect home users against cybercrimes and all internet threats including but not limited to viruses, trojans, worms, spams, spywares, malwares, adwares, phishing, identity theft, hoax websites, dangerous files etc. All this is available for the price of a normal router. I am sure that if any one starts thinking about it, they would wonder how Sitecom were able to create such product for few hundred dirhams because this solution exists currently for business use
only and the cost come to be a few thousands of dirhams per route. Further, apart from the regular Sitecom outstanding features such as Giga ports, 4 antenna solutions for optimal performance, Stream Engine Technology, 10 years real warranty, and unbelievable wireless coverage that goes for more than three floors without loss of signals or drop of speed, I simply would add that this is the power of Sitecom and underlines the fact that we are number one selling brand in the market of UAE and many regional markets. Do you see Sitecom’s recall as a brand with consumers in the region getting stronger? Absolutely, the unmatched growth rate of almost 100% of sales growth year on year shows the great demand by consumers who needs our solutions. The sales is going up at all levels with regional partners local partners, retailers, traders, corporate as well as our own retail outlets.
Spotlight | Sitecom and Al Otaiba
The fact is we don’t sell regular under-featured routers. We sell exciting solutions that gives any home user the peace of mind, the protection of the family against all the mentioned unwanted threats, plus address the regular user requirements such as Wireless Coverage with the best throughput, speed of downloads etc. Further, Sitecom were pioneers in launching the N technology which offers 300Mbps and now the new 450Mbps which not seen much in the market. The Sitecom market share which has doubled year by year, not only in UAE but in the whole of the GCC as well as Iran and North Africa has been better than our expectations and we are quite thankful to our partners across the region. Would you be at the shopper or main GITEX? We have decided to be in the shopper through our valued retail partners. However, we wouldn’t be at the main GITEX for this year, since we are already meeting many of our existing partners who are coming to visit the show and many who have great interest to partner with us and take Sitecom to their countries. This is for countries like India, Algeria and some African and CIS countries where we are not yet present. Are you doing product promotions with partners? Sitecom works closely with all its valued partners to provide the consumers the best ever
offers and promotions. Sitecom at the Gitex Shopper would be announcing exciting promotional offers that are unmatched and shall create great traffic for our partners. At the last year Gitex Shopper, Sitecom was the number one selling brand in there and the gap between Sitecom and other brands was huge. There will be outstanding surprises this year and I would it to leave it to our customers to discover at the show and showrooms of our retail partners. Are you looking to expand in other markets like KSA? We are already present in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Our partner there is doing great job of it and now Sitecom enjoys the same success in KSA as it has been in the UAE. The KSA market is very important market to us, and we have partnered with one of the largest conglomerate multibillion groups that moving forward everyday towards success, and market coverage. Please note that we will not be content being second in sales. Our target is to keep the record of being the number one selling brand in all the countries including UAE Since we launched Sitecom in KSA, we have been adding new stores regularly to our clientele list. We are also working on large project basis but I can’t disclose much about it now except that it would create opportunities to execute sellout that exceeds 200,000 routers in one go.
Sitecom WL-405 Wireless IP Security Camera 150N
Key features: • Ideal for wireless monitor ing of various spaces at home (baby’s bedroom or your living room) or the o¬ffice (reception area or warehouse) • Can access the live images recorded by the camera from any desktop PC or notebook using the Inter net or Intranet. All you need is a web browser and an IP address. • Network Interface: 1 Ether net 10/100 BaseT (RJ45) wired LAN connection, 1T1R wireless LAN, based on 802.11n technology • Supported resolutions: 640x480 (VGA); 320x240 (QVGA); 160x120 (QQVGA) • Video streaming: MPEG4; MJPE
October 2011
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Product Showcase | Sitecom and Al Otaiba
X4, X5 & X6 Sitecom Wireless Routers
• • • • •
This solution has Sitecom Cloud Security: the security integrated in the router protects all the devices in your network against cybercrime when surfing the Internet. “out of the box” security Automatic Firmware update: automatically get the latest software improvements for free 802.11a/b/g/n Wireless Standard Protocol Universal Plug & Play (UPnP)
X4 • covers three storeys, with wireless speeds of up to 300 Mbps. T • supports cable speeds of up to 1000 Mbps. Since the Gigabit WAN port is suitable for data transfer speeds of up to 500 Mbps X5 Simultaneous Dual-band router simultaneously uses the standard 2.4 GHz frequency and the less congested 5 GHz frequency for the optimal wireless performance of heavy applications. X6 It has a range which covers three storeys, with wireless speeds of up to 300 Mbps on the 2.4 GHz frequency and 450 Mbps on the 5 GHZ frequency.
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October 2011
Product Showcase | Sitecom and Al Otaiba
Sitecom WL350 Wireless 300N Media Router
Sitecom WL329GM Wireless 300N Gaming Adapter
Sitecom WL329sl Wireless 300N Media Adapter
Key features: • • • • • • • • • • •
StreamEngine technology Automatic Quality of Service WISH: wireless intelligent stream han dling for the internal wireless network Peer to Peer optimized and up to 30.000 simultaneous open connections Two access points with 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz wireless band which can be used simultaneously Specially reserved 5 GHz frequency Wireless speeds up to 300 Mbps on both bands Built-in full-duplex 10/100/1000 WAN port XR Extended Range technology reduces “dead spots” and offers an optimal range Standard fully “out of the box” secured with WPA2 Smart One-Push Setup button
WL329SL Key features: • 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency • 5 GHz frequency for wireless streaming • One-Push Setup: create a wireless connection with one push • Security: WPA, WPA2 (AES, TKIP), 64/128 bit WEP with shared key authentication
Key features: • Dual-band technology Transmit signals on the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency • 5 GHz frequency for wireless gaming and streaming without interference • Standard/compliance 802.11 b/g/n • Wireless speeds up to 300 Mbps on both bands • One-Push Setup: create a wireless connection with one push • Security: WPA, WPA2 (AES, TKIP), 64/128 bit WEP with shared-key authentication
Sitecom WL361 Wireless 150N Mobile Router Key features: • “Out of the box” fully secured with WPA2 • Smart One-Push Setup button of a button • Compatible with 802.11n - 802.11b/g Wireless Standard Protocol • Wireless speed up to 150 Mbps • 802.3u 802.3i • Security: WEP 64 & 128 bits, WPA-TKIP, WPA-AES, WPA2, WPA-Radius • One internal antenna • Quality of Service (QoS) • Universal Plug & Play (UPnP) • has an integrated rechargeable battery which you can work for up to 6 hours without the need for a plug socket.
October 2011
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News | Fujitsu
Fujitsu offers sumo sized savings for consumers at Shopper
having light-hearted and fun encounter.”
Chandan Mehta DP & PM, Fujitsu Technology Solutions
A true East meets West story will take place at GITEX Shopper 2011 when Fujitsu partners the power of their German-made notebooks with Sumo-sized promotions throughout the 8-day event. Customers who take advantage of massive savings on Fujitsu LIFEBOOK notebooks can increase their winnings by taking on Nara, a champion Japanese sumo wrestler, in a friendly bout of arm wrestling or tug-of-war. And every shopper with a new Fujitsu purchased from GITEX Shopper 2011 earns a profes26
October 2011
sional photo taken with Nara to commemorate their Sumo-sized savings. Chandan Mehta, Director Product and Portfolio Management, Fujitsu Technology Solutions says: “While Fujitsu’s LIFEBOOK notebook computers are lightweight, they carry the power of the second generation Intel Core processing, packing major computing strength in a small and sleek package. Hosting Nara – one of Japan’s premier sumo wrestlers – at GITEX Shopper 2011 enables consumers to gain major savings and value while
Fujitsu customers who go toeto-toe with Nara at GITEX Shoppers can win cash-back vouchers, discounts on new LIFEBOOK models, free digital cameras and portable hard disks, and even complimentary LIFEBOOKs. Seven LIFEBOOKs are set to be won by seven different shoppers who automatically enter a raffle draw by getting into the Fujitsumo ring with Nara. Weighing in at 165kg, Nara is a formidable opponent -- he weighs more than 66 Fujitsu LIFEBOOKs stacked together-but he’s no match for the speed of Fujitsu LIFEBOOK technology. Nara’s custom-built mini Sumo ring can be found at the Fujitsumo stand with Japan’s two-time heavyweight champion onsite at GITEX Shopper. Fujitsu will be at stand CR1 this year at shopper.
Product Showcase | Fujitsu
LIFEBOOK AH531/GFO • 2nd Gen Intel® Core™ i5-2430M Processor (2.4 GHz, 3 MB) • Genuine Windows® 7 Home Premium • HDD 750 GB, RAM 4 GB DDR3, 1333 Mhz • 15.6” Glare, 16:9 LED backlight • DVD Super multi
LIFEBOOK AH531 • 2nd Gen Intel® Core™ i3-2330M Processor (2.2 GHz, 3 MB) • Genuine Windows® 7 Home Basic • HDD 500 GB, RAM 4 GB DDR3, 1333 Mhz • 15.6” Glare, 16:9 LED backlight • DVD Super multi
LIFEBOOK AH530 • 2nd Gen Intel® Core™ i3-370 Processor (2.4 GHz, 3 MB) • Genuine Windows® 7 Home Basic • HDD 320 GB, RAM 2 GB DDR3, 1333 Mhz • 15.6” Glare, 16:9 WXGA LED backlight • DVD Super multi
October 2011
27
News | Touchmate
Touchmate to launch tablet and mobiles with 3 SIMs
TOUCHMATE Tabzz (8 Inch Touch-Screen HDMI Internet Tablet)
other models available in the market with all ports as well as the added option of connecting to LCD TV to make it an Internet smart TV.” Touchmate is also launching new mobile phones and is looking to establish a stronger footing in the mobile phones market.
Vasant Menghani MD, Touchmate Quality Group’s Touchmate is all scheduled to introduce several new products at this year’s GITEX. The regional vendor will as in previous years look at participation at the show to boost brand visibility. Touchmate has quite successfully diversified its portfolio over the past several years and this year, the anticipated launch of its tablet PC is expected to be one of the several highlights of its showcase. Vasant Menghani, MD at Touchmate says, “We are launching our branded tablet PCs at GITEX. These offer more functions than
“We are coming more aggressively into the Mobile phones market. We are launching four new models including the world’s first 3 SIM phone. It would have Internet FM feature too built in. There would be a Bar styled and one Qwerty based model.” Besides, Touchmate would be launching new gadgets, iphone and Blackberry accessories, chargers and batteries. With an extensive range of products and accessories, Touchmate continues to offer more choices for consumers. “We are expanding each year and have seen good growth. Our presence with major IT retailers in the region including Lullu, Carrefour, Emax, Sharaf DG etc is growing,” concludes Menghani.
• This 8 Inch Touch-Screen HDMI Internet Tab has a 8.0 capacitive Multi-Touch Touch-Screen which helps You For Accurate Zoom. • It runs on Google Android 2.3 Op erating System which is spe- cifically designed with easy GUI for quick entertainment experience. • You can have a quick access to Internet & enjoy Facebook, You tube, Twitter, MSN, Emails, Google Apps & Unlimited Internet Contents. • TOUCHMATE Tabzz supports HD Video Playback by built-in HDMI- Out Port which can be plugged directly to high-definition LCD TV to convert LCD TV into Smart Internet TV. • Remote functions can be con trolled by Wireless Mouse (Bundled). • Wi-Fi Wireless Internet, Bluetooth & Dual Camera (Front & Back) for recording & chatting. For more details, log on to www. touchmatepc.com October 2011
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Product Showcase | Touchmate
Triple Sim Mobile
20 Inches Wide LED MONITOR Key features
Key features: • • • • • • • • •
Rich & Elegant Look with Music Keys upfront to listen to Music Internet through GPRS WAP, Alarm, Calendar, E-Book, Calculator with Stylish Keypad, MP3 Music On Move & high quality sound Expandable Memory Light Weight & super slim design USB connectivity Built-in camera
For more details, log on to www.touchmatepc.com
• TOUCHMATE 20” Wide LED Monitor has a smart, elegant look, is affordable and offers a high resolution choice for home, office users & students. • The Stylish LED blends reliability & performance into an attractive, affordable package. • At a flicker-free 1600 x 900 resolution, you’ll get reduced eye strain while viewing spreadsheets, word processing & Internet Content. • The Super-fine 0.3m horizontal dot pitch produces crisp clear images, vivid colours & precise picture definition. • Multimedia built-in-speakers for sound & songs. • On View Controls, adjust your screen and secure unwanted changes to display settings with the OSD (On Screen Display) Function. For more details, log on to www.touchmatepc.com
TOUCHMATE - Core i5 Sandy Bridge PC Key features: • • • • • • •
Intel Core i5 Sandy Bridge 3.10 Ghz ( 6 MB ) 4 GB RAM ( DDR3 ) 1 TB HDD Hard Disk Drive. Dedicated Graphic Card 1 GB. Wireless Desktop / WIFI. Super Multi DVD Writer. Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium FREE Wireless Keyboard & optical Mouse. Multi Media Headphone. 16.0 MP Web Cam. 2.1 Home Theater 1000W.
For more details, log on to www.touchmatepc.com
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October 2011
DCS-930L
DCS-5230L
DCS-932L
Easy configuration in 3 simple steps.
Easy configuration in 3 simple steps.
Easy configuration in 3 simple steps.
Quickly access registered cameras via the mydlink website
Easily view & manage you camera from mydlink website.
Built-in IR LED for low-light capture.
Works with the mydlink iPhone or Android app for onthe go viewing.
Built-in IR LED for low-light capture. Pan/Tilt/Zoom Wireless Camera. 1.3 megapixel CMOS image sensor.
Quickly access registered cameras via the mydlink website. Works with the mydlink iPhone or Android app for onthe go viewing.
Stay connected to what matters most Throughout your busy week, stay connected to everything you love 24/7. View your home and keep an eye on your kids, your pets and your valued possessions from anywhere over the Internet. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing everything is safe and secure. Whether you’re out for an evening, at the office or away on vacation, mydlink-enabled cameras let you keep a close, constant eye on all that’s important to you.
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