(MegaBlaze Com) PCR July

COMPUTER & IT RESELLERS RETAILERS SYSTEM BUILDERS DISTRIBUTORS VENDORS JULY 2011 ISSUE 94
WINDOWS 8 PREVIEW
A sneak peek and industry
opinions on Microsofts
next operating system
p14
COMMENT
July PCR 3
ASK NOT WHAT YOUR COUNTRY CAN DO
FOR YOU
THOSE who have been in the IT industry for a long time may be
pleasantly surprised to see just how seriously the Government is now
taking cyber-security.
Having not really been on the political radar to any huge extent for
years, the recent spate of attacks on national infrastructure, and the
more frivolous acts of cyber terrorism by the likes of LulzSec, seem to
have pushed cyber-security up the agenda in Whitehall.
Some may consider previous statements of intent from the
Government as lip service, but even cynical observers will raise their
eyebrows to read that the Coalition considers online attacks to be of
equal gravity to the threat posed by nuclear weapons and is looking
at the issue in an increasingly militaristic way (see page seven).
Its actually a stronger stance than weve been used to hearing from
even the security software publishers, who for years have been the
most vocal group on the issue, pointing out the dangers of
international cyber-attacks and highlighting rising malware levels.
Indeed, the practice of cyber-defence has traditionally been more or
less exclusively the domain of the IT industry in the UK whether its
retailers selling software, resellers installing server protection, or the
manufacturers of the IT hardware and software itself. Now the
Government is taking the issue seriously, it is looking to the trade to
help it, and to some extent educate it on what to do.
The message from Francis Maude, the Governments minister in
charge of cyber-security, is that this is a huge issue and the IT
industry will need to play a significant role in getting some better
defences together.
Its almost an extension of the densely rhetoric phrase big society
which according to most peoples best attempts at translating it, means
not relying on the state for everything.
In this case it appears to be less to do with limited resources, and
more to do with the fact that central government doesnt really have
much of a history of dealing with this sort of thing, and perhaps doesnt
have all the answers.
Andrew Wooden, Editor
andrew.wooden@intentmedia.co.uk
@Andrewwooden82
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Issue 94
July 2011
Incorporating
PCR CONTACTS
Editor
Andrew Wooden @andrewwooden82
Associate Editor
Helen French @helenfrench
helen.french@intentmedia.co.uk
Technology Editor
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Managing Editor
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Marketing & Circulation
Lindsay Banham
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The Coalition considers online
attacks to be of equal gravity to the
threat posed by nuclear weapons.
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DELL INTERVIEW 17
With executive director for the
UK and Ireland, Sarah Shields
INDIE REPAIRS 22
We examine a booming sector
for independent retailers
BETTER BUSINESS 27
Finance adviser Mark Ireland
gives some top money tips
ISSUE 94
JULY 2011
PCR
Contents
RETAIL FOCUS FRONTLINE 35 | INDIE PROFILE 39 | MYSTERY SHOPPER 40
MAC PERIPHERALS
As Apple steadily increases its
market share, we give an
overview of the lucrative and
growing market for Mac-
compatible peripherals and
accessories.
MAC SOFTWARE
With a strong
grounding in
design
software and a
growing
gaming
portfolio, we
provide a
rundown of
some of the latest business and
entertainment titles to hit the
Mac platform.
75 59 47
Gaming & Accessories
Page 67
Hardware
Page 45
Software
Page 57
WINDOWS 8
We give a preview of some of
the features available in
Microsofts next operating
system and talk to some
industry figures about their
opinions on the new look.
REGULARS
News ......................7
GFK ..........................55
Opinion ..................95
Out of Office ....112
14
FEAR 3
A preview of the horror-action
blockbuster FEAR 3
SIMS 3: TOWN
LIFE STUFF 76
A sneak peek at the latest from
the popular Sims franchise
ONLIVE 71
We sit down with OnLive CEO
and founder Steve Perlman
81
Consumer Electronics
Page 79
MARKETPLACE MP NEWS 90 | PCR RECOMMENDED 100
Sponsored by
SMARTPHONES
We examine the increasingly
important smartphone
category, taking
a look at some
of the latest
handsets to hit
the market and
a range of the
accessories
designed to
work with
them.
SIGN UP FOR THE PCR NEWSFLASH SERVICE AT WWW.PCR-ONLINE.BIZ NEWS
www.pcronline.biz July PCR 7
THE CABINET minister in charge of
cyber-security Francis Maude has said
the Government cannot tackle the
problem of online defence alone, and
will need considerable help and
guidance from the IT industry.
In an exclusive interview with PCR,
the minister who runs the Office of
Cyber Security and Information
Assurance also claimed online attacks
are on a par with the threat posed by
nuclear weapons.
In terms of gravity, I would agree
that the threat from cyberspace to the
UK is as equal to the threat from
nuclear proliferation, he said.
The Government is very aware that
it cannot tackle these problems alone
and will need considerable help and
guidance from the IT industry. Many
of the innovative solutions we need to
implement are created by experts
outside of Government who have a lot
to offer to the national contribution.
The department is currently
working with IT trade association
Intellect, but it is looking for more
collaboration with technology
companies to help set up national
defence systems. Around 650 million
is being ploughed into a new National
Cyber Security Programme to beef
up defences.
But the minister is insistent that it
is the responsibility of the private
sector as well as individuals to
contribute to the push.
Getting individual internet users
to be better prepared and clued-up on
internet security risks is half of the
battle, added Maude. This is why we
continue to support public awareness
and education initiatives such as Get
Safe Online. This initiative is a joint
HMG/private sector partnership
between leading Government
departments and representatives of
the finance, technology,
telecommunications and security
software sectors. Such an approach
highlights that it is not just the
Government that has a responsibility
for raising awareness of internet
security risks it is all sectors.
As well as defending against the
more commonly documented online
scams, and the recent spate of attacks
from online terrorists such as LulzSec
and Anonymous, it seems the
Government is increasingly looking to
militarise security measures an area
where the IT industrys involvement
may be less clear.
By 2015, cyber operations will have
become business as usual within UK
defence planning and operations with
military commanders able to call on
robust national capabilities and
international partnerships to meet UK
defence needs, Maude concluded.
By Andrew Wooden
It is not just the
Government that has a
responsibility for raising
awareness of internet
security risks it is
all sectors.
Francis Maude
Francis
Maude
Governments cabinet minister in charge of cyber-security asks IT industry for help in rallying a national
cyberspace defence G Says online attacks are equal to the threat from nuclear proliferation
Your country needs you
8 PCR July www.pcr-online.biz
NEWS
DELL HAS WARNED that swathes of
old, surplus technology stagnating in
the UK market place is a huge
problem, and has also called the
culture of price cutting at the bottom
of the market an absolute bloodbath.
The firm points to weak consumer
demand as a major problem,
attributing it to a decline in its own
sales earlier this year.
"Lets be really honest with each
other here. The consumer market is
soft. The consumer market is really
soft. And this is a global phenomenon
we had our Q1 results that came out
and although our consumer business
was three billion dollars, it was in
seven per cent decline. And thats
purely down to the fact that the
demand just isnt there," said Sarah
Shields, executive director and GM for
UK and Ireland consumer at Dell.
She claims a strategy of avoiding the
bargain basement area of the market
has helped it alleviate the problem of
weak consumer demand, but that
floods of old technology has damaged
the market.
"Times [in the consumer market]
are tough. And I think that what
weve done, where weve been
successful is because were not in this
race for zero. Theres no fun at the
bottom of the market. Its an absolute
bloodbath. We are much more
interested in giving customers exactly
what they want. The right technology
for the right price. And not just the
bargain basement deal of the day.
Theres so much old technology
floating around at the moment, and I
dont want to buy old stuff with my
money even if it is cheap. I think its a
huge problem. If you look at GfK and
IDC figures for last year, there was a
massive surplus as we came into 2011.
And thats all old technology. The UK
market was in a dreadful state in
calendar Q1. January sales and into
February it was pretty horrific. And
we saw it in the retailer results. We see
it in the results of every big player.
CEO, FOUNDER and president of
OnLive Steve Perlman has told PCR it
will look to work with the current
gaming platforms such as Xbox and PS3,
though their 2005 architecture means
they are getting long in the tooth.
The cloud gaming service works
through a mini-console connected to a
TV, or directly through a PC. The
visuals are streamed to the user, while
the actual computing is done on
powerful servers elsewhere.
It will launch in the UK in autumn
having already launched in the US in
June last year.
When asked if the new system will
come to dominate gaming, Perlman
told us: "In time, as the years go by,
were looking at 2005 architecture for
Xbox 360 and PS3. Theyre getting a
bit long in the tooth.
I think what youll see will be
people saying you know I really want
to play this very high performance
game that just cant be played on a
console. And I guess at that point we
become sort of competitive, but
whether it was us or someone else
theres a natural movement from
old game platforms to the next
generation."
While the technology could
conceivably negate the need to
upgrade a gaming PC, Perlman insists
it wont kill off the upgrade market:
"Well be working with PC gamers,
those who are really into it and want
to upgrade. They dont see it as a
burden, they see it as a hobby. And
were all for that.
PCR understands that by working
through the cloud and being powered
by ultra-powerful servers, specialised,
ultra-high resolution games exclusive
to OnLive can be created, which they
claim will be graphically far superior
than anything that can be produced
on local PC or console.
By Andrew Wooden
PC giant says bottom of UK computer market is an absolute
bloodbath G Obsolete tech surplus is a huge problem for industry
Theres so much old
technology floating
around at the moment.
I think its a huge
problem. The market
was in a dreadful state
in calendar Q1.
Sarah Shields,
Dell
Dell says old technology is gutting
UK market
OnLive: gaming platforms getting long in the tooth
NEWS
INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL adviser
Mark Ireland has warned that PC
retailers who dont plan ahead face
serious risks to their businesses.
Ireland told PCR: Unfortunately,
some business owners put their heads
in the sand when it comes to looking
after their finances.
We shouldnt leave our personal
or business finances to chance those
that do will be less profitable, pay
more tax and maybe even lose
everything in the end.
Ireland believes that the biggest
mistake people make is creating
financial plans too late, putting them
in a position where they then have to
pay over the odds, or take more risks
than they should.
When asked what retailers could
do to better protect themselves, Ireland
recommended: Its got to be a balance
of pushing forward a business through
the delivery, marketing and
development of new products and
services, whilst also protecting the
money the business makes and those
that deliver it. Its easy to lose focus of
these objectives, so its well worth
putting on the monthly agenda.
My mum used to say, Look after
the pennies and the pounds will look
after themselves. My updated version
would be: Look after all your money,
because no-one else will.
By Helen French
Financial advisor warns small businesses of dangers
of not planning ahead
Indies putting
their heads in the
sand on finance
DISTRIBUTOR INTERACTIVE
Ideas has clocked a 32 per cent jump
in revenue for the last financial year,
and is gunning for the same level of
growth next year.
It made 31.4 million in revenue,
and is looking to cruise past 40
million in the next 12 months.
Managing director, Mike Trup said:
This is the fourth year in a row that
we have achieved record revenue and
in that time we have increased more
than three times in size.
Marketing director Michael Breeze
added: We have seen significant
growth from high end, feature rich
accessories both within the gaming
and consumer electronics market. We
have seen that many companies are
poorly represented when dealing with
online retailers and often lack the
resources internally. With our
specialist service we are able to provide
a level of support and service to
manufacturers that isnt available from
elsewhere. We have recently added
further marketing and support staff to
our retail team along with a number
of new vendors. We have grown over
30 per cent in each of the last four
years and we aim to continue this in
the forthcoming year taking us past
40 million in revenue.
In the last few months
the firm has signed
distribution agreements
with Acme, Sweex,
Urban Factory and
Cirkuit Planet.
Interactive Ideas on track for 30% growth
We shouldnt leave our personal or
business finances to chance those that
do will be less profitable, pay more tax and
maybe even lose everthing in the end.
Mark Ireland
Firm targets 40m revenue spurred by growth in gaming and consumer electronic sectors
By Andrew Wooden
Interactive Ideas
Michael Breeze
NEWS
THE MIDWICH Group, a pan-
European distribution operation, will
host its third Technology Exposed
reseller event at Ascot Racecourse on
September 21st and 22nd.
Around 80 tech brands will be
exhibiting products, including global
consumer names like Samsung, Canon
and Panasonic, alongside more
specialised, niche brands such as
Radvision (videoconferencing), Atlona
(digital connectivity) and Magenta.
The show has a wide remit,
including projection, large format
displays, consumer electronics, digital
signage, home automation, video
conferencing, 3D technology, print and
imaging, barcoding, pro audio and IP
security solutions.
Alex Ward, commercial director at
Midwich, said: All our high profile
print vendors will be attending the
event again this year each with their
own unique offerings including reseller
campaigns and support to aid the
resellers in growing their businesses
within this category. Since our last
show we have not only grown the print
sales support team at Midwich, but
added two new key print brands to the
portfolio Dell and Panasonic who
will be exhibiting this year.
Print remains very strategic to
Midwich and for many of our customer
needs. Technology Exposed gives us the
chance to discuss both what new print
offerings we have, plus how we and the
vendors can build the resellers revenue
streams on print hardware and to look
in the more lucrative long term
consumables business.
By Andrew Wooden
UK DISTRIBUTOR Westcoast will
host a charity bungee jump event on
August 13th, at the in Monkey Island
Hotel, Bray on Thames.
65 resellers are expected to be
present for the Xtreme Charity
Bungee Jump, put together in
conjunction with sponsored vendor
HP Imaging and Printing Group.
The entry fee to take part is a
donation of 50 to a charity of the
entrants choice.
Phil Bell, Westcoasts marketing
manager said: HPs involvement in
the world of print has
revolutionised how we do business.
This event will be used as a
stepping stone and show casing
ePrint technology illustrates how
HP is leading the way in the print
market.
Ryan Mitchell, Westcoasts HP
business manager added: This show
is a fantastic opportunity for resellers
to demo products they sell every day.
Meeting and engaging with resellers is
what distribution is about and we
think this event will capitalise our
dominance in the print market
moving forward. We want to help
resellers grow their business and
understand the technology and there
is no better way than this.
Westcoast to hold charity bungee jump
Since our last show
we have not only grown
the print sales support
team at Midwich, but
added two new key
print brands to the
portfolio Dell and
Panasonic who will be
exhibiting this year.
Alex Ward,
Midwich
By Andrew Wooden
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Cases t CPUs t Displays t Flash Memory t Hard Drives t Networking t Notebooks t Peripherals t Software t Video Cards
Now that Microsoft has lifted the lid on what the
next iteration of its operating system will look like,
Helen French examines what the future holds and
finds out what the frontline of PC retail thinks...
Windows 8
PREVIEW WINDOWS
THE WINDOWS 8 debate floodgates
are open. Microsoft demonstrated its
new operating system last month,
giving the trade a taste of whats to
come next year, when Windows 8 is
likely to be released. Expectations are
always high when a big player comes
out with a new OS though often
tinged with pessimism since Windows
Vista. Lets have a look at what
Microsoft has revealed.
The start screen will be a mosaic of
tiles, each one representing an
application. Unlike iPhone app icons,
which have a static image, Windows 8
tiles change to reflect whats going on
within the app for example a weather
tile can show that days forecast.
Its been designed from the ground
up for touch. Simple gestures can open
tiles or scroll across them to see more,
and users will be able to snap apps
together to show two working at once.
Existing applications can still be
used alongside the new ones designed
specifically for Windows 8 and users
will be able to snap these too.
Windows 8 retains a file system,
and new applications will be able to
access it to browse pictures, videos,
documents and more.
Interestingly, Microsoft appears to
be standardising the look of its
interfaces Windows Phone, Windows
8 and now the new Xbox dashboard
all look strikingly similar.
A technical demonstration at
Computex also highlighted the new
operating systems ability to work
across both x86 and ARM-based
architectures, with a number of
prototypes on show.
Ultimately, PC users just want an
operating system thats easy to use,
which works hard behind the scenes.
Itll be interesting to see what we get...
Comment
EVERYTHING I have seen so far has
been very positive, especially things like
the ergonomic on-screen keyboard.
Its great to see Microsoft leading
the way with innovative ideas and not
just rehashing other companies
existing concepts.
I like the idea that it will work on a
variety of devices a shrewd move by
Microsoft as Im sure there are plenty
of consumers whod want their tablet
and phone to have the same interface
as their PC. This could be a way to get
people to move away from Apple.
However, Im not sure how having
only one version of the OS will work
in a real world scenario across massively
different specifications of devices.
WE LIVE in touching times.
According to Microsoft, anyway,
which is keen to emphasise that
Windows 8 has a touch-centric UI.
On top of being able to swipe
around the Start screen, and snap
apps together, theres a touchscreen
keyboard. It can be used at full size, or
as a thumbs layout (see below, centre)
useful for those with tablets or phones.
But what of those people who dont
have touchscreen products? Microsoft
claims Windows 8 will work just as well
with keyboard and mouse. How true
this is remains to be seen. But
Microsoft is working on a device called
the Touch Mouse which features
gesture control. Currently being
promoted for Windows 7, we suspect
itll be pushed for Windows 8 too.
CRAIG HUME, UTOPIA COMPUTERS
Input
As an industry we face
big challenges in
finding ways round
user interface barriers.
Having a consistent
way of navigating is
important, across
Windows 8, Windows
Phone and Xbox.
Stephen McGill, Microsoft
Comment
Start
www.pcr-online.biz July PCR 15
PREVIEW WINDOWS
WINDOWS 8 is a going to be a great
addition to the Windows family. The
market has always been there for
touchscreen PCs, but Windows 8 will
now bring that to the mainstream
audience.
With Windows 8, Microsoft is
tyring to play to the younger tech savvy
audience who like their apps and
gadgets. It is very app friendly and will
be able to run on the smallest
processors, so we will see it being
applied very successfully to mobile,
tablets and smart TVs. I think we will
see more and more Microsoft devices
appearing in the market in the not too
distant future, and it will become a
major contender as the OS of choice
in the mobile arena.
Its not a direct progression from
Windows 7 in that it has a clearly
different product concept. Windows 7
was all about making up for the failure
of Windows Vista and becoming a
worthy successor to Windows XP.
In my opinion Windows 7 will keep
going for a long time in the same way
as Windows XP did. People are just
about done switching to Windows 7
now and I don't think that the leap
from the traditional operating system
to the touchscreen format of Windows
8 would appeal to most at present.
FROM WHAT I saw, Windows 8
looked very much like Windows Phone
7, which is appalling in my opinion
it too uses tiles, and for some reason
Microsoft has made it so that the
interface doesn't fit on the screen;
there are bits of text running off the
edge for example, which while
making the interface bigger as such,
is really annoying.
The tiles idea is indeed striking,
and may work as a basic tablet
interface, like the iPad or on a large
phone, but for a full desktop operating
system it could not work.
This is not what I would call
progress. Users want a desktop, they
don't want slick and intuitive, they
just want what they are used to, and
for it to work like they expect.
The only way this could work is if
that interface is additional to a
standard desktop, like Media Centre
(and who uses that?).
The way Microsoft keeps changing
things is working against it; its sad to
think XP is still seen as its high point.
Id like to see a a return to basic,
easily navigated file systems, and a
return to a simple desktop like XP.
Finally, a new OS from Microsoft is
always a good thing even Vista
boosted sales for a while!
As for what Id like to see in the
future: easier to understand error
codes. For example, Ive never
understood why, when trying to update
Windows and the time or date is
wrong, you receive a message that says
error code 0x80073712. Why not just
say check your date and time? But if
these errors were easier to understand,
perhaps I would not be so busy.
IT LOOKS LIKE Xbox Live will have a
significant part to play in the future of
Windows 8 and there are rumours that
Xboxs motion-interface device Kinect
might make an appearance too.
Mike Delman, Microsoft vice
president of global marketing, has said
that Xbox Live will be built into PCs
through Windows 8, and suggested that
Xbox Live will be the service thats
used to deliver different types of media
across all its devices. It has already
been integrated into Windows Phone.
Furthermore, at games conference
E3 Xbox Lives new dashboard was
announced its being updated to
have a Windows-8 style appearance
Stephen McGill, director Xbox &
Entertainment, Microsoft UK, told
PCRs sister magazine MCV that
familiarity with user interfaces is
increasingly important to Microsoft:
As an industry we face big challenges
in finding ways round user interface
barriers and navigating through a
personal directory of hundreds of
thousands of pieces of content.
In a world where you surf
through millions of bits of content,
and start doing that through the TV,
having a consistent way of navigating
is important, across Windows 8,
Windows Phone and Xbox.
Less is known about Kinects role,
but its gesture controls would make a
good fit with the new OS and
rumours suggest Windows 8 might
feature webcam sensors that would
use Kinect-style facial recognition to
log users on. Watch this space.
Play
Craig Hume, Utopia Computers
Comment
Comment
PETER WRIGHT, HIVE SUPPORT
ANWAR AHMED, ARBICO
Windows 8 features
touchscreen
keyboards, including
this ergonomic
thumbs version
MSI recommends Windows7.
Dell seems to be doing best in the
corporate arena, as well as through
high margin products such as
servers. From a consumer
perspective, what product categories
are performing best for Dell?
Let's be really honest with each other
here. The consumer market is soft. The
consumer market is really soft. And
this is a global phenomenon we had
our Q1 results that came out and
although our consumer business was
three billion dollars, it was in seven per
cent decline. And that's purely down to
the fact that the demand just isnt
there. I dont think there has been a
better time to buy computers than
right now we are seeing some of the
most amazing price points out there.
You can get so much technology for
your pound.
But people are holding back.
Theyre holding back because of
inflation, because of uncertainty.
Although in the Consumer
Confidence Index I did read
something that said because of the
Royal Wedding it was its highest ever,
but I think thats just because theyre
happy, not necessarily confident.
Times are tough. And I think that
what weve done, weve been successful
in; were not in this race for zero.
Theres no fun at the bottom of the
market. Its an absolute bloodbath. We
are much more interested in giving
customers exactly what they want. The
right technology for the
right price. And not just
I dont think there has
been a better time to
buy computers than
right now we are
seeing some amazing
price points out there
Sarah Shields - Dell
INTERVIEW DELL
Dell, the second biggest PC
maker in the world, has
been making a lot of moves
in the corporate sector of
late. But it insists it is not
taking its eye off the
consumer market. Andrew
Wooden talk to Sarah
Shields, executive director
and GM for UK and Ireland
consumer
Hard
times
>>>
the bargain basement deal
of the day.
Theres so much old technology
floating around at the moment, and I
don't want to buy old stuff with my
money even if it is cheap. I want the
latest, I want something thats going to
give me enjoyable ownership for three
plus years. Not something thats
already out of date when I buy it.
Do you think theres a problem in
the market with old technology
being circulated?
I think its a huge problem. If you look
at GfK and IDC figures for last year,
there was a massive surplus as we came
into 2011. And thats all old
technology. The UK market was in a
dreadful state in calendar Q1. January
sales and into February it was pretty
horrific. And we saw it in the retailer
results. We see it in the results of every
big player in this market. It hasnt been
a boom quarter at all. You only have to
look at the sort of products that are
out there at the moment, youve got IT
at crazy prices but its all old
technology. And it has to sell through,
absolutely. But Im in the extremely
fortunate position that weve actually
managed our inventory very well. So I
dont have to sell the old stock, I can
still give the consumer exactly what
they want.
Acer is having to pay something
around $150 million to clear such
stock, it was reported last month.
Are we likely to see more of that?
I dont want to comment on Acers
problem, but its by no means unique.
You just have to look at the GFK and
IDC figures to see how much stock has
been hanging around. I think its
affected everybody. I dont know if one
company has been hit more than
another. I dont want to speculate on
that, but all I can say is that it has been
tough. And the survivors here will be
the ones that have kept a very careful
control of their inventory. Who have
sold in what they sold out. It works
best for the manufacturer, it works best
for the retailers.
During the Bernstein strategic
decisions conference last month,
Michael Dell said that the firms
shift away from personal computers
and into services is paying off. Is it
getting harder to make money on
traditional PCs today?
Absolutely. Because of the
consumerisation of IT, you have to
look at other revenue streams. You
have to become more solutions led.
And as a consumer you kind of expect
it as well. As a consumer, it becomes
part of my decision-making process.
In lieu of all these new devices on
the market today, are we
approaching an era where the PC is
less relevant?
Do you know what, I dont think its
less relevant. But I think you have more
companion devices to go with it. In my
personal life I have a smartphone, I
have a tablet, and I have a notebook.
Then at home I have my home PC
which has all of my photos, its attached
to my TV, and acts as my home server.
Those are things and its a sad thing
to admit to that I cant live without.
And the fact that they all talk to each
other has become absolutely the way I
manage my household. Its incredible,
so I think that you digitalise your life,
but what you dont do is take away the
importance of your PC. They way that I
look at it, and it wasnt me that came
up with this youve got the three Cs.
Communications, consumption and
creation. Communication is my
smartphone, consumption is my tablet,
and then creation is my PC. With the
best will in the worlds, you arent going
to do spreadsheets and PowerPoint on a
tablet, it drives you nuts.
What about tablets how big can
this market become? At the moment
Apple are dominating it can they
be challenged in this area, and how
big a player can Dell be?
INTERVIEW DELL
>>>
The PC will always form a
central part of Dells
technology offering.
Because of the
consumerisation of IT,
you have to look at
other revenue streams
Sarah Shields
My view is that theres more than one
player in any market. And the market
is always going to need points of
difference. Apple is a closed eco-
system. And Im not going to say
anything negative about it at all.
However there are people out there
that prefer Android. If you look at
Android in the smartphone arena, its
growing exceptionally well. The
number of apps available, the number
of followers, the way it has been
designed, its going to get bigger and
bigger. And there are some people out
there that will want to go with an
Apple, and there are others that will
want to go with an Android. And its
up to the players in the Android
market to look at adding more value to
the consumer offering. Looking at ways
that its not just an alternative, but so
that it does a bit more. We came out
with a five-inch pocket tablet. Its got
all the functionality of a pocket tablet,
but it actually fits in your pocket. And
some people love it, some people hate
it. But then some people love the iPad,
some people hate the iPad. We have
one in our house my husband is a
massive fan. I also have an Android
tablet, and I'm a massive fan. So its all
about choice.
Would you agree that if you're not
Apple, its very difficult to
differentiate yourself in this market?
Since the devices are 95 per cent
screen they all look alike and almost
all operate the same Android
operating system, which makes the
operations pretty similar as well.
How are manufacturers supposed to
stand out in this market?
I think youre absolutely right, thats
going to be a constant challenge for
everybody. And its nothing new it
was the same with netbooks. How do
you differentiate a netbook? Its going
to be an interesting one to see how it
pans out. Youve got three or four big
players coming out with hardware, its
going to be about what can you do not
just with hardware, not just Android,
how can you get something that adds a
little bit more value. For Dell, that goes
back to this Stage thing that I've been
talking about. That is how we
differentiate; its about managing the
content. Getting content that you
actually want, that youre going to use
and need on a daily basis.
And another point, and this is one
that every manufacturer is looking at,
is the quality of the product. You are
walking around with a screen. And you
need to work out how you can make
that as robust as you possibly can.
I think its going to be an interface
that ties the Android and hardware
system together and thats not
proprietary. If its a closed eco-system, I
question whether or not it adds more
value than is already available.
You mentioned the problem of old
tech flooding the PC market. Could
this happen with tablets?
I dont know if youre not careful it
could. Because there have been some
big developments in the tablet arena,
and if youve got excess inventory out
there with the new developments that
are coming out its going to be obsolete
very, very quickly. So again it goes back
to inventory control. Its more
important what you sell out than what
you sell in. Youve got to balance it.
INTERVIEW DELL
DELL: Tough market conditions but
corporate business is holding up well.
Dells Streak 7 spearheads its
serious push into the pocket
tablet market.
If you look at Android
in the Smartphone
arena, its growing
exceptionally well
The growth in popularity of technology such as smartphones, consoles, laptops and tablets has
provided a much-needed boost to the independent sector as the public look for reliable and
knowledgeable people to repair their devices. Matt Grainger takes a look at this sector and talks to a
few industry figures about this growing opportunity
Repairs offer a brighter
future for indie retail
ANALYSIS INDEPENDENT REPAIRS
AT THIS POINT in time, its clear
that the market has shifted. No longer
constrained to a handful of categories
consisting of large dedicated
computational machines, information
technology has penetrated every level
of society and is used by a wider range
of people than ever before, from
schoolchildren to pensioners.
Almost everything now has a
processor chip. Most people carry a
mobile phone, while tablets of various
types can be seen in abundance by
anyone who takes the train anywhere.
Laptops are seen as an essential
purchase for most households and the
all-in-one category is growing by leaps
and bounds.
An example of this is reflected in
figures from market researcher GfK,
which show that the tablet category has
seen astonishing sales growth during
the last quarter, increasing by over
2,000 per cent per month since the
beginning of March. The figures were
so strong that GfKs business group
director, Carl West, remarked that the
tablet category was propping up the
rest of the market in terms of sales.
I think youll find that webbooks
are actually adding value to the wider
marketplace, West remarked to PCR.
Not only that but if you look at the
year-on-year volume combining all
categories, webbooks is holding up the
computing market.
The growth in the all-in-one category
is noted by EntaTechs group vice
president Jon Atherton: Although
netbooks arent quite selling like they
were a few months ago, presumably
due to the growing tablet sector, all-in-
ones have definitely seen an upturn.
However, despite the fact that
devices such as tablets, smartphones,
games consoles and netbooks are
common sights, the economic climate
has meant that vendors are increasingly
looking for direct sales, while multiple
retailers jealously guard market share.
While these items may offer indies
less opportunity for sales, their
ubiquity and their popularity with
mainstream consumers means that
they offer excellent opportunities for
repairs. Although there are competing
services available from the multiple
retailers, repairs seems to be an area
where the independent retailer can
punch far above his weight.
Indies are getting much better at
not only doing repairs in-house but
they also know who to turn to for the
specialist repairs. And I think theres
going to be a lot of work for indies in
repairing the new devices that are
coming through the tablets and the
convergent technologies that are
coming through, notes Brigantia
founder, Iain Shaw.
Five years ago an independent
repairing a laptop would be rare but
its common now. Either they do it
themselves or pass it on to a specialist.
Its moving that way for repairs on
consoles and itll be the same with
tablets in future.
The preference for repairs is
reflected in some of the latest sales
trends noted by Target Components,
which caters for a broad range of
customers including independent
retail, e-tail and system builders.
Target is one of the only
distributors of smartphone parts in the
UK and our customers have responded
very well to them. Were getting a lot
of return custom from people finding
that they can make some seriously
good money from smartphone repairs,
says Target Components marketing
executive Scott Frankling.
Rather than getting a new handset
when their contract expires, more and
more people are opting to use the one
theyve already got and just get a sim-
only contract, which opens up the
options for independent repairs. The
parts are relatively cheap, so all you
need is someone with the expertise to
do repairs. Its not just mobile phones
either, another growth area for us is
replacement laptop screens.
While the multiples continue to
undercut each other on price and
attempt to outdo each other on
customer service, independents are
able to take advantage of their strong
position within their local
communities as a source of expertise
and a port of call for speedy repairs.
Theres no real threat to the
independent retailer from the
multiples, states Shaw. At the end of
the day, whos going to do the work?
Where are the skilled engineers?
Theyre not working for Dixons. The
good indies out there are the
neighbourhood computer experts
theyre the local guy that local people
can turn to.
Shaws comments are echoed by
Brett Matthews, founder and MD of
Cambridge Laptop Repair: Never
before has there been a better time for
independent repair shops. I think
theres a great opportunity in adversity.
Switched-on independents are taking
the opportunity to stretch their legs,
diversify and provide an even greater
service than what was available before.
Theyve got to genuinely want to
provide true value. Theyve got to offer
timely and cost effective repairs, and
also a lot of people expect to be able to
get a home service.
In my company, we dont just rely
on our fully furnished workshops to
keep busy, we have guys out there
whose technical knowhow is taken as a
given what people want now is trust,
loyalty and integrity, and those things
come very strongly from independent
businesses.
What people want
now is trust, loyalty and
integrity, and those
things come very
strongly from
independent
businesses.
Brett Matthews,
Cambridge Laptop Repair
ANALYSIS INDEPENDENT REPAIRS
From Left:Brett Matthews of Cambridge
Laptop Repair, GfKs Carl West, Brigantias
Iain Shaw, Target Components Scott
Frankling and EntaTechs Jon Atherton
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ONCE YOUR business is up and
running (and we appreciate thats
enormously tough in itself these days),
its easy, perhaps, for the less
financially interested or astute to put
more complicated money concerns to
the back of their minds. But if you do
this, you may not be making the most
of your money. Worse, you could be
putting your business at risk.
PCR spoke to Mark Ireland, an
independent financial adviser, about
simple steps businesses can take to
protect their interests. Hes worked
with many small and medium sized
companies over the years and helped
them plan their finances. As he says:
We shouldn't leave our personal or
business finances to chance; those
that do will be less profitable, pay more
tax and maybe even lose everything in
the end.
Here he sets out some important
considerations for any business
regardless of size, turnover or time in
existence. Some tips are basic
housekeeping, but much of this can be
forgotten in a busy working day, whilst
others include aspects of business
planning often overlooked until it is
too late.
1. BUSINESS BANKING
Were all afraid of switching banks for
day-to-day business banking facilities,
but we shouldnt be. Clearly banks are
not falling over themselves to pay
interest on business accounts, but
many may provide useful ancillary
services and introductory free banking
periods. Gone are the days of your
bank being a bank for life, so look at
the features offered and decide
whether they are required for your
business if not, tell your bankers you
don't need them and try to negotiate
better terms or move banks.
2. EXISTING BORROWING
Make sure you discuss your existing
finance arrangements with your bank
regularly. Interest rates are low and will
only rise. Whilst banks are not
currently overly generous with the
terms of business loans and overdrafts
you can bet your bottom dollar (or
pound) that when the base rate rises
the interest charged on new loans will
rise as well. So if youre able to
refinance now for a known period of
time, with maybe even a fixed interest
rate, youll likely be better off in the
medium to longer term.
3. PROFESSIONAL INSURANCES
All companies are of course required
by law to provide both employer and
public liability insurances, and for
some professional liability is a must.
But how many small businesses actually
shop around when the policies come
up for renewal, to see if there are better
terms or cheaper costs available? Many
will also have an off the shelf policy
which doesnt necessarily fit with the
business itself, maybe not taking
account of offsite visits and
so on. Shop around as soon
We shouldnt leave our
personal or business
finances to chance;
those that do will be
less profitable, pay
more tax and maybe
even lose everything in
the end.
Mark Ireland
BETTER BUSINESS FINANCE
Making money isnt just about revenue and margins. Helen French talks to financial adviser Mark
Ireland about everything else a business owner should keep in mind when it comes to finance
Ten tips for
financial success
>>>
as you receive your
renewal notice, ideally
using a broker who has knowledge of
your industry.
4. BUSINESS GRANTS
When was the last time you investigated
Government or EU grants that might
be available to you, especially in the
development or testing of new
technologies or marketing provision?
Grants of up to 250,000 may be
available. Take a look at
http://bit.ly/iUdROt for useful
information on getting a grant in 2011.
5. LTD COMPANY,
PARTNERSHIP OR LLP?
With upper rates of income tax now at
50 per cent, and an increase in the
levels of both employee and employer
national insurance rates, there has
never been a more important time to
revisit whether you should operate as a
limited company or a partnership/sole
trader. Speak with your tax advisers
and get them to take you through the
pros and cons of each, not forgetting
to look at the limited liability
partnership route.
6. BUSINESS SUCCESSION
PLANNING
Have you ever considered what
happens to your company in the event
that you or one of your business co-
owners dies prematurely or is forced to
retire early due to ill-health? Would
you be happy if your company could be
influenced by the family of a former
business partner as a result of them
inheriting an interest? Protecting
yourself and other shareholders or
partners is financially sensible,
provides a formal structure to work to,
and could also protect the value of the
business from the tax man. Simple life
and serious illness insurance can
provide financial compensation, giving
both the remaining owners and the
families of the owners peace of mind
and security. The same can be said of
business loan protection, which many
banks now require again as a
requirement for new finance. Shop
around though, as these insurances can
vary tremendously in price, especially if
you normally only deal with your bank;
speak with your professional advisers
about the structure appropriate for
your company.
7. KEY MAN INSURANCE
Do you have a star salesperson, or a
key technical person someone that
without whom the business would
suffer financially for a period of time
due to loss of revenue, recruitment
costs, delays and so on? Once again,
consider insuring your business
against this financial loss in a similar
way as above.
8. N.E.S.T.
The National Employment Savings
Trust is the new workplace pension
being rolled out across the UK from
2012. From this point all employers
will be required by law to make
contributions to a pension scheme for
their staff. It will be phased in over a
few years but it is time to start
budgeting for this additional
expenditure to your business, as
minimum employer contributions will
be set at around three per cent of an
employees salary.
9. STAKEHOLDER PENSIONS
Whilst we wait for the above to start
there is still the legislative requirement
for all businesses with five or more staff
to have in place a stakeholder pension
scheme. There is no commitment to
contribute at present, but there is a
requirement for the employer to
promote the scheme to staff and make
payments to it available via payroll, or
face fines of up to 50,000.
10. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
It may not seem appropriate in these
days of austerity to add to the benefits
you give to your staff, but consider the
merits and possible tax advantages they
have, as they may offer a way of
providing valuable extras to staff,
possibly in lieu of a pay rise. Typically
these include private medical care,
pension contributions, life insurance,
access to a childcare voucher scheme
and so on. Many provide personal cost
savings and tax advantages to the
employee as well as you the employer.
All statements concerning the tax
treatment of products and their benefits
are based on understanding of the current
law and HMRC practice as at the date of
publication. Levels and bases of, and reliefs
from, taxation are subject to change.
NEED TO KNOW
MARK IRELAND DipFA is an
independent financial adviser at
Barton Financial Planning Ltd. He
has been providing tailored
financial planning to small and
medium sized companies and their
owners, as well as private
individuals, trustees and charities,
for nearly twenty years.
Should you wish to discuss any
aspect of financial planning,
whether for you personally or
for your business, Mark is
contactable by email,
mark.ireland@bklwealth.co.uk
or by phone, 020 8922 9140.
BETTER BUSINESS FINANCE
When was the last
time you investigated
Government or EU
grants that might
be available to you?
Grants of up to
250,000 may
be available.
Mark Ireland
>>>
How has the last year been for CCI?
PR: Last year was about the realisation
that the recession was really biting. Weve
pulled out of some of the major retailers
due to credit limits. We downscaled
about 20 per cent in terms of people,
and basically cut our monthly costs back
by 50,000. So since July weve rebuilt
the company into a profitable situation
every month.
The key area for us over the last nine
months has been the growth of the NAS
market, both consumer and business.
Now were doing in excess of half a
million pound a month in NAS. The
bulk of that is Asian sourced technology
we do integration, installation and
warranty and maintenance on that.
As well as companies like Synology, we
established our own Storage Options
brand. Weve built a full support service
alongside that brand, for the two key
areas of CCTV and tablets.
With regards to tablets, we started off
with a me too product, a seven-inch
resistive device, which we sold about
10,000 of over the Christmas period.
Weve now moved it on to a capacitive
screen in seven and eight-inch models.
Were also releasing a miScroll product
for the more teenage market at 119.
So when did you launch the Storage
Options brand?
PR: Q3 last year was optical and flash,
Q4 was tablets, then Q1 is the launch
of consumer CCTV.
Do you notice any friction carrying
your own brand as well as rival
products?
PR: Were not competing with any
of our vendors on technologies.
Traditionally our business is storage, hard
drive based storage and optical. Its new
technology.
PE: Its complementary to our main
distribution business. Weve tried to fill
gaps if we see them or go into completely
new areas, as we did with the tablets.
One of the other areas youre strong in
is CCTV, which is becoming
increasingly digitised and intertwined
with computing and IT. Is this an area
PC retailers should look at more now?
PR: We started off with cameras, CCTV
standalone cameras. Thats evolved into
a full, self-installable consumer, small
four-camera system for a house or
small business.
Its only been on a limited basis at
retail; weve partnered with one
particular retailer Maplin. And the
initial signs are very good.
PE: As the market moves more into
digital equipment, people with IT
knowledge and networking knowledge
will be able to install IP cameras and
have that march over the current CCTV
people. I think theres an opportunity
there for some of PCRs readers.
So with regards to the tablets, the
USP appears to be the comparatively
low price compared to say the iPad.
Would you say the markets currently
got the price tag a bit high for tablets?
PR: If you put Apple to one side,
because thats a unique proposition
where it can achieve those price points,
our proposition will actually increase in
price as we add more to the product.
They are currently 119 to 159 RRP.
PE: The market is growing in the 100 to
200 bracket. Its also growing in the
300 to 400 bracket, but overall the
price at that top end is shrinking and
going down. We think were ideally
positioned in that 100 to 200 bracket.
GfK told us if you took out subsidised
sales of the iPad from telco stores,
were actually the leader in the market in
that area.
CCI DISTRIBUTION INTERVIEW
After a strong year, CCI
is looking to drive its
storage distribution
business further in the
UK, as well as its own
brand of products.
Andrew Wooden talks
to Marketing Manager
Paul Evison and
Managing Director Paul
Roughley...
More Options
Paul Roughley
CCIs Paul Evison gives
PCR the lowdown on the
firms latest gear
So you used to work with Alan
Sugar. How did that go?
Imagine working in one of the most
exciting, innovative business that, at the
time, was doubling its profits and
market value every year. Being part of
that was an amazing experience.
Critics have described Lord Sugar as
out of touch and his work ethic as a
model of bad management. Others
have said he is negative and narrow
minded nonsense! It was the best
business grounding one could ask for.
Working at Amstrad was infectious
and it got in your blood. You were
either there for a day or many years,
there was rarely any inbetween.
Gem has taken on a few new product
lines what are they and why are
you moving into these areas?
We have taken on a number of new
and innovative
products over
recent weeks. These
include a range of
batteries from
Contour Energy
Systems.
Also, we have
signed up ASL
(Anywhere Speakers
Ltd), creators of the
Woweeone compact
portable speaker.
As you can see
we are not focussing on a specific area
or category but rather sourcing
products that have a point of
differential in the market. Watch this
space as we have several incredibly
exciting product launches soon to be
announced.
And what about your Exspect
division?
Our own brand Exspect is a very
exciting and significant part of our
business which we will continue to
develop and expand. In addition to our
own brand and existing licence
agreements, we will continue to explore
new future licensing opportunities. The
success of the Ministry of Sound and
Hed Kandi brands has been
overwhelming and both have been
incredibly well received by our
customers. We will continue to work
closely with the teams at Ministry of
Sound in developing even more
exciting products to meet the ever
increasing customer demand.
As head of business development,
you must be keeping your eye out for
the next big thing what do you
think it will be?
Absolutely, I am looking at a number
of developing new technologies and
exciting, innovative new products but
dont expect me to stake my reputation
on stating which will be the next big
thing. It is just too difficult to make
such predictions.
The markets that we are looking to
enter are incredibly competitive and
awash with me too products. As such
it is imperative that we find products
which are unique by means of
functionality or are design-led thus
making them
aspirational. These
are, however, few
and far between.
You cover quite a
lot of ground in
the UK market
with your
customer base
what do you get
the sense is the
biggest problem
facing retailers at
the moment?
The cost of living soaring with prices
increasing for petrol, gas, electricity and
food. Consumer confidence is at an all-
time low. As such there has been a shift
in spending priorities. The question
facing retailers is: why should
consumers choose to part with their
money in their particular store?
Todays consumers have never been
more conscious of price and retailers
need to continue to offer value
propositions. This is not made easy
with the cost of goods rising and in
most cases these increases cannot be
passed on to the consumer thus causing
margin degradation.
Creating leaner organisational
infrastructures has been a central theme
over the last couple of years and this
should continue to be a central focus
for all retailers.
GEM INTERVIEWS HARDWARE
Unique
Gems
Andrew Wooden talks to Gems new head of
business development Philip Munro as the
distributor looks to move into new product areas
and develop its own brand, Exspect.
The markets that we
are looking to enter are
incredibly competitive
and awash with me too
products. As such it is
imperative that we find
product which are
unique
Philip Munro,
Gem Distribution
Philip Munro
FRONTLINE
Our monthly run down of the best
selling devices in a range of
categories and retail feedback
P
36
INDIE PROFILE
We go to Cambridge to profile
independent repair shop PC Call
P
39
MYSTERY SHOPPER
Our shopper travels to Gloucester
to find 3D laptops and monitors
P
40
PCRs monthly look at the issues facing the retail sector
Retail
Focus
Infinite Field Marketing visits 250 stores across the UK to gather real
grass roots feedback and opinion on the best selling items in-store
and the issues affecting the industry...
RETAIL FOCUS S FRONTLINE
From the
Frontline
THE CORE OF ENTRY
LEVEL COMPUTING
ITS ALWAYS nice to see the march of
progress reflected in our sales charts.
Lets be honest in the last few years, the
top selling devices in any category have
usually been the lowest priced and so
tend to feature a lot of older
components. While this is still the case,
its nice to see that Intels family of Core
processors is heavily represented in our
sales charts, with the vast majority using
either the i3 or i5.
Its quite unusual to see a range of
processors so heavily penetrate the market
in the way that the Nehalem and Sandy
Bridge Core iX devices have. Despite only
seeing a release last year, the Nehalem-
based first generation seem to have
already been pushed into obsolesence by
its Sandy Bridge successors. These feature
integrated graphics and thus reduce
construction costs for vendors and system
builders alike. This, combined with
having the Intel brand and marketing
behind them, makes them very tempting
pieces of hardware.
The remainder mostly feature the
AMD Athlon X2, with the exception
being the Acer X3910. Im afraid I dont
have any specs for this machine as with
a lot of entry level computers, the
specifications can vary wildly as they tend
to be built using the cheapest comparable
components that are available at the
time. Ive seen X3910s with Pentium
E5500s, Celeron E3300s and Intel Core
i3s, while storage options range from
250GB to 1TB. Strange indeed!
In other categories, there seems to be a
new kid on the block in the mice
category, with two entries from the Logik
brand. This is one of Currys own brands
and is aimed specifically at the entry level
customer looking for basic devices.
matt.grainger@intentmedia.co.uk
HP G7-1002SA 1
2. ASUS X52F-EX1229V
3. ACER 5742
4. ACER AS5742-384-G32M
5. SONY VPCEB4EE/WI
COMPAQ SG3350UK 1
2. ACER X3910
3. ACER Z5700
4. HP G5370UK
5. ASUS ET2010AGT
DESKTOPS
1. MICROSOFT COMFORT CURVE 2000 1
2. LOGITECH K300
3. LOGITECH MEDIA 600
4. LOGITECH ULTRA FLAT KEYBOARD
5. MICROSOFT DIGITAL MEDIA 3000
KEYBOARD
LAPTOPS
LOGITECH M305
2. LOGIK LMOM10
3. LOGITECH M180
4. MICROSOFT 3000 WIRELESS
5. LOGIK LGGMO10
NORTON INTERNET SECURITY
2. NORTON 360
3. KASPERSKY INTERNET SECURITY
4. TREND MICRO
5. AVG INTERNET SECURITY
ANTI VIRUS
ASUS ATI RADEON 4650 AGP
2. PNY GEFORCE 8400GS
3. SAPPHIRE ATI RADEON HD 4350 512MB
4. NVIDIA GEFORCE 8400GS
5. SAPPHIRE ATI RADEON HD 4350 1GB
GRAPHIC CARDS
MICE
1
1
1
Are the new tablets entering the market
going to be a tougher sell than the iPad'?
The tablet market has flourished over the course of the last few
months, having seen a huge level of public awareness and
massive sales growth. Despite Apples early lead in the sector,
retailers are confident in the potential for other devices.
I Yes 16%
I No 53%
I Dont Know 31%
RETAIL FOCUS S FRONTLINE
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
NEWS BYTES
COMET TO CLOSE 17 STORES
Comet is to close 17 under-performing
retail outlets after being hit with an 8.9
million loss in the last financial year. Like for
like sales for the year dropped by 7.7 per
cent and total revenue declined by 6.8 per
cent, despite the company having reduced
its operating costs by seven per cent.
Apparently, the retailer was hit by
weakness in the market and tougher
trading conditions in the final quarter
following the VAT rise. As well as closing
the stores, the retailer will consolidate its 14
regional service centres in to two sites,
reduce its warehouse network from three to
two and will reduce staff numbers at its
head office.
BRC SLAMS ILLOGICAL
BANK SERVICE CHARGES
The British Retail Consortium has slammed
banks for the unjustifiably high charges
that they levy on retailers for services such
as payment processing and cash collection.
The attack comes after the BRC unveiled
the findings from its Cost of Payment
Collection Survey, which found that on
average every retailer paid 1.7 pence per
cash transaction to have the money
transported and banked. Meanwhile credit
card transactions cost 37.1p and debits
cards were 9.2p. The question is, should
this money be going into increasing banks
profits or to keeping shop prices down for
customers? Reducing the charges banks
impose so they genuinely reflect the actual
costs involved in processing these
transactions is the right answer, said the
director of the BRC, Stephen Robertson.
STUDY: INDIES FARE BETTER
THAN MULTIPLES
Research from the Local Data Company has
found that independent retailers have
weathered the problems facing UK retail
much better than multiples. The study
highlighted a range of problems including
the expansion of out-of-town retail and the
continued growth of online retail. However,
despite this adversity, the research found
that while the multiples had either
downsized, moved out of town or failed
completely, indies were far better at
reinventing themselves to meet local needs.
In fact, the closure rate among
independents has dropped significantly
over the last two years, and of the 500,000
surveyed retailers, over 65 per cent were
independent.
SALES FLAT FOR JUNE
Sales volume for June failed to show any
increase the first time in a year that they
have not grown. Around 33 per cent of
retailers told the CBI that their sales had
increased year-on-year while 34 per cent
reported a decline. Consumers are really
feeling the pinch as disposable incomes
continue to be squeezed by rising prices
and weak earnings growth, said the CBIs
panel chair, Judith McKenna.
KEY RETAILER COMMENTS
There are plenty of tablets
out now in the market.
Customers have a better
choice compared to a couple
of years ago.
Customers are asking for
ones with USB and ones that
they can add more external
drives to.
The all-in-ones are selling
better now as the prices have
come down compared to
what they were before.
They also have good specs
and are easy to carry.
More and more stores
believe that they do not need
to hard sell products.
However they must have
good product knowledge to
sell the products.
When was PC Home-Call established?
We set up PC HomeCall in 2006.
We now have two other brands, PC
Business-Call (for corporate and small
to medium business IT Support) and
most recently we acquired and
developed Cambridge Laptop Repair.
This is a national repair programme for
laptops of all kinds.
What is the current set-up in
comparison to the early days?
Today we employ 14 people, and
operate from two locations
Willingham and Cambridge. Both
shops have brand new dedicated PC,
server and laptop repair workshops
with outstanding equipment and
engineers capable of building any type
of computer, to repairing a laptop
screen or worse still a laptop with a
liquid spill over the circuit board. We
now specialise in all types of Apple
Mac repairs too, at a fraction of the
cost of normal Mac repairs.
What major changes have you seen
within the business?
The current climate within the UK
economy has meant people are keener
to repair their computer or laptop
rather than buy new. This has given us
the opportunity to focus at always
trying to improve what we do and how
we do it. For example, we now have a
Same Day Express Repair Service.
What would be your advice to new
business start ups?
Believe you can do it, decide what you
want to focus on and do not try to let
anyone tell you that you can't.
RETAIL FOCUS S PC HOME-CALL
Iain Shaw travels to Cambridge's PC Home-
Call, and talks to owner Brett Matthews
Indie Profile
FACT BOX
Year established: 2006
Number of outlets: 2
Number of staff: 14
Regular vendor lines:
Dell, DrayTec, ESET, Microsoft
Contact name and address:
Mandy Holden, 25b High Street,
Willingham, Cambridgeshire
CB24 5ES
Telephone:
01223 852777
Email:
mandy@cambridgelaptoprepair.
co.uk
Website:www.pcbusiness-
call.com & www.cambridge
laptoprepair.co.uk
Roger Humm is Head of
Membership Relations at
Brigantia Computer Experts
roger.humm@brigantia.com
I INFORMED the member of staff of my interest in
obtaining a 3D PC, and he looked at me puzzled. I
dont know if I can really help you. I dont know all
that much about 3D, its not very readily available. I
dont know enough to know who or what to
recommend. He then added, jokily: Im still getting
used to colour.
I asked if he had any idea which brands would be
best. I would stay away from HP, because they tend to
have reliability issues and we dont always get on so
well with them as a result. With graphics, they are
about the same. You cant really weigh one better than
the other, youll need to research for yourself. But for
3D then stick with Intel i5 and this should be fine.
However, if you want more speed and for gaming,
then you may want the i7. But Intel have probably got
the better understanding of 3D, I guess, at the
moment; again check the internet for better answers.
I asked him what would be better laptop or
desktop. If you intend to use it for gaming as well as
for movies, then go with a desktop. If you find
something else you like on the internet, come back
and I can see if I can get a price for you; we can
usually get most brands.
He then apologised for his lack of knowledge: Im
sorry I cannot help you more, we normally deal with
schools and businesses who
know exactly what they
want, so I dont get to
know a lot.
RETAIL FOCUS S MYSTERY SHOPPER
40 PCR July www.pcronline.biz
Mystery Shopper is on the prowl for a 3D laptop and a 3D
monitor, investigating the quality of the products now that the
buzz around the sector has dropped to less hysterical levels
AD COMPUTING
SCORE
5/10
Gloucester
>>>
Turn the page for more
Mystery Shopper results
EASTGATE COMPUTERS
I STOOD FOR a few minutes and eventually I was
asked if I needed help. I walked over to the counter
and explained my needs. The salesman remained
seated so had to look up at me and with a slight
smile, maybe a smirk, looking through his glasses, I
could see a bemused look as he processed my
request. I will try and see what I can find out for
you, just bare with me. After a few questions, I was
given a print-out of information. 3D is still fairly
new for PC, and for once TV has beaten PC with
something new like this. But for PC it is still being
put together.
He had found information about an Acer laptop,
AS5745DG-374G32Mnks, with a 15.6-inch screen.
This Acer laptop comes with an i3 processor,
which is fine, but if you want to use it for 3D
games, then you will get far better results with an i7
processor. i7 has been built with gaming in mind.
Much better speeds and more efficiency."
I asked if there were any brands I should go for.
If we build you a tower so you can use 3D games
better, then we will only use good quality
components. We would make sure we got a 3D
certified screen, put in all the appropriate software,
memory, storage and Blu-ray needed. But if you do
go the laptop route we can get all the best brands."
To be honest, if you want to go with a laptop
then wait a little longer. I think they are too
expensive at the moment, because there are limited
models at present. But if you want us to build you a
tower then this will be better value. If I take a guess
I would estimate around 1,400.
I asked the store assistants if I needed to know
any more. They both looked at each other and
shook their heads. One said, as I was leaving:
Thank you for coming in and asking about 3D.
Sorry for not being better
clued up. Ill do more
studying and be better
prepared when you return.
SCORE
8/10
CURRYS DIGITAL
AFTER SEVERAL minutes I approached a sales
assistant who was dusting, and asked for help. She
gave me a nice smile but informed me that she
would need to get another colleague to help me.
Once I had explained my enquiry to the second
assistant, he took me over to a computer terminal.
He went on to the internet and began to search for
3D PC information. The PC was very slow in
responding and delivering its pages, but he
remained patient. The waiting didnt produce much
conversation or questions, so I began. If I wanted
to watch 3D movies and play games should I
consider a laptop or a desktop? I received no direct
response. He waited for the internet pages to load,
and then continued searching for a few more
minutes through a more pages. Im not sure what he
was looking for.
What sort of processor would you recommend?
I asked, to break the waiting. I guess an i5 or i7,
based on their speeds and graphics handling. AMD
are fine but not sure what the equivalents will be.
The other thing is the quality of your graphics card.
Nvidia do 3D cards, but the one we had used the
old style Red and Blue lenses; you know, the
cardboard type.
As he continued to look through yet more pages,
I asked what 3D products the business stocks. He
replied: We dont have anything in store at the
moment. Youll probably find that our bigger mega
stores range more.
I was told that Acer and Toshiba offer good value,
whilst HP and Sony offer better quality and
reliability. HP was commended for its after sales
service. Eventually he printed out some information
for me from Meshs website.
Overall he was more than helpful. Although there
was little conversation, I
managed to obtain most of
the information needed.
SCORE
7/10
THE LACK OF staff waiting to attend to customers
needs and the lack of sales creating and closing was
shocking. I know 3D is reasonably new to PCs but I
was not ready to find out that all the stores visited
had nothing to show me. They had nothing in
stock or on their systems and could only inform me
of what I could find on the internet.
I also found that staff only knew about 3D from
what they have read on the internet and that they
had no actual experience of viewing it on PC other
than at the cinema or on the TVs, if they worked in
a electrical store.
I felt the information was helpful but there was
nothing really positive behind what was being
discussed and demonstrated by the retailers.
However, the independent retailers who could
offer to build a unit certainly stand a better chance
of gaining 3D sales compared with the multiple
stores who could show me nothing and could only
advise me to wait and call back, maybe in a few
weeks.
[SUMMARY]
COMET
I WAS TOLD by a member of staff that they only
had 3D TVs in stock no PCs. An assistant
returned several minutes later and reported: Yes,
one of my colleagues said we used to stock an Acer
3D laptop, but we dont have it anymore. Im sure
there will be more 3D in soon.
I was told Id need a Blu-ray reader, a base unit
with 3D software, and a 3D monitor. I recommend
an i5 processor or better an i7. Im not sure how
well Athlon are doing at present, but Im sure they
will have something. You can also consider using a
3D TV as a monitor, you can easily connect a laptop
or desktop to them by a cable, or wirelessly.
Another colleague joined the conversation, and
advised me to use AMD processors. I would
recommend you look at Alienware monitors; they
are made by Dell. Or if you really want the best of
the best then research Origin Gaming, use their
spec as your guide to a good monitor. You probably
wont want to pay their prices, they are very, very
expensive. Also Nvidia I think have started doing a
3D card and glasses bundle. Alternatively, find out
all the components youll need and get it custom
built.
But of course we would
prefer you came back to
us, he added quickly.
PCW
I WAS ASKED rather routinely by a salesman if he
could help. Once he was informed of my request he
offered help that was simple and straight to the
point. All you need, if you want to upgrade your
own PC, is a 3D graphics card and a 3D monitor.
As easy as that? I asked.
Yes, should be, he replied. I went on to ask him
for his opinion on brands.
He responded: Well, I have an Nvidia 3D card. I
dont use the 3D yet but Ive got it ready in case I
do. So personally Id go for Nvidia, I use them and
can say I know how good they are. ATi are just as
good, it is just that most of us here use Nvidia and
think they are better at the moment. It changes all
the time though.
I asked if they stocked 3D monitors, 3D laptops
or towers. No we havent got any here. Try our
store at Cribbs Causeway in Bristol.
I went on to ask what sort of processor Id need.
At least an i5 or i7. Athlon have theirs but we
mainly see Intel in our products, so i5 or i7, for
speed and performance of 3D.
He finished: Get yourself a 3D card, a 3D
monitor. You wont need
anything else. All the drivers
will come with the products
themselves.
THESE ARE STILL cutting edge technologies. I
dont think we have them in stock just yet, I was
told. After another colleague was called as backup, I
was then told: Stick with NVIDIA graphics cards.
They have been doing 3D for longer, so I feel they
have the better experience and performance at
present. Youll need a fast processor. I use Intels i7
myself and will only recommend it when asked to
make a recommendation. Again stick with Intel, I
just think, right now, they have got it right. Their
chip is made very well especially the way it handles
heat and how it produces power, but this is too much
to go into right now.
I was further advised to have 4GB minimum
memory, but preferably 6GB DDR3, two x60GB
Flash units and a solid state drive, and a Viewsonic
FuHzion monitor. I asked how much I should
consider spending. You should consider spending
between 1,000 and 1,500. This will be good
quality. You can spend less, but it is about finding the
Sweet Spot between cost and performance. For
example, if you spend an 50 extra and you gain an
extra 70 per cent more benefit and the next step up is
another 50 but the benefit
is only another 10 per cent,
it is that decision: cost
against benefit, the Sweet
MAPLIN
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.
SCORE
7/10
SCORE
7/10
SCORE
8/10
>>>
42 PCR July www.pcronline.biz
DO.
YOU MAKE THEM
WE MAKE THE TOOLS.
Lenovo recommends Windows 7.
DESKTOPS. LAPTOPS. TABLETS.
Lenovo 2011. All rights reserved. Lenovo, the Lenovo logo and ThinkPad are registered trademarks of Lenovo. Microsof and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsof Corporation. Intel, the
Intel logo, Intel Inside, Intel Core and Core Inside are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries. Lenovo reserves the right to alter product ofering and is not responsible for
photographic or typographic errors. Product images are just for reference and might not resemble the actual products. MMG_UK_PPA_Q1-12_22679
The world wont move forward by itself. It needs a push.
A shove. A hard shoulder to the ribs. And we make the
machines that help you do it. Machines like the ThinkPad

X1. Starting at 16.5mm thin and powered by visibily smart
2
nd
generation Intel
Core
processor. Because whatever

you do, we want to help you do it better.
WWW.LENOVO.COM/UK
Lenovo ThinkPad
X1
powered by 2
nd
generation
Intel
Core
i5 processor.
Hardware
PCRs monthly look at recent developments in the hardware market
GFK
Account executive Dominic
Ashford charts the growth in the
tablet and e-reader segments
P
55
MAC HARDWARE
We examine the broad array of
Mac compatible peripherals and
accessories on the market
P
47
46 PCR94:Layout 1 24/6/11 12:10 Page 1
CONTACTS
Peak Development:
01489 796979
Interactive Ideas:
020 8805 1000
Westcoast:
0118 912 6000
EntaTech:
0333 101 1000
VIP Computers:
0871 622 7500
Ingram Micro:
0871 973 3000
Realtime Distribution:
01480 435881
Micro-P:
01282 776776
[ ]
XOOPAR AQUA LITE
SRP: 15.99
Distributor: Peak Development
They say: This 4-port USB hub features a built-in changeable LED
light which illuminates through the acrylic stand.
Specs: USB 2.0, plug and play.
As Apples market share grows, so does demand for a host of Mac-compatible peripherals from
keyboards and mice to graphics tablets. Matt Grainger takes a look at some of the latest items
[ ]
TRUST AEROO
WIDESCREEN TABLET
SRP: 141.17
Distributor: Interactive Ideas
They say: A high precision graphics tablet with advanced pen and 204 x
127mm widescreen working space for picture editing, freehand drawing and
other graphic applications.
Specs: Graphics tablet with ergonomic wireless pen, convenient wheel pad for
easy scroll, zoom and volume control, eight programmable buttons, optimized
for use with widescreen monitors.
[ ]
TARGUS VERSAVU
SRP: 44.99
Distributor: Westcoast
They say: The sophisticated styling of the rotating stand/case features a
unique mechanism that creatively frames the Apple logo and allows the iPad
to rotate both vertically and horizontally while in the case.
Specs: Three viewing positions, form-fitted design, hard-sided exterior
provides a sturdy, protective cover, soft interior lining.
HARDWARE S MAC HARDWARE
>>>
Mac Peripherals
>>>
[ ]
XOOPAR COOKY
PRESENTER
SRP: 19.99
They say: A wireless USB
presenter and class 2 laser
pointer.
Specs: Remote control for on-
screen presentations, infrared
technology, integrated laser, plug
and play.
[ ]
CHERRY INITIAL
KEYBOARD FOR MAC
SRP: 20.86
They say: The white Initial for
Mac from Cherry is the ideal
solution for all Mac users looking
for a reliable keyboard with
unique design and pleasant
confirmation feeling at a
reasonable price.
Specs: White USB keyboard with
Mac layout, unique design and
pleasant key confirmation, high
liquid resistance.
[ ]
ARCTIC SOUND P311
WIRELESS HEADSET
SRP: 19.99
Distributor: EntaTech
They say: The Arctic Sound
P311 is a wireless headset to
complement with virtually any
electronic devices that support
Bluetooth wireless technology,
such as laptops, mobile phones
or music players.
Specs: Lightweight and discreet,
high fidelity stereo sound,
powerful bass, compatible with
iPhone and notebooks.
[ ]
BELKIN GRIP VUE FOR
IPAD 2
SRP: 17.99
They say: View your iPad your
way with the versatile and
protective case with an
innovative handstrap for 360
degree viewing.
Specs: Enjoy the unique
experience of the all-in-one case
and stand solution, swap out the
handstrap and replace it with a
multi-position kickstand for table-
top viewing and typing mode.
[ ]
TRUST CURVE WIRELESS
LASER MOUSE
SRP: 20.99
They say: A compact wireless
laser mouse with comfortable
curved shape and attractive
metal look and feel surface, and
a high precision laser sensor for
smooth and accurate
performance on almost every
surface.
Specs: Compact design, 2.4GHz
wireless operation, eight metre
range, ambidextrous.
[ ]
XOOPAR POKKET SHINY
SRP: 9.99
They say: The slimline Pokket
Shiny features a brilliant lighting
effect at the touch of a mouse.
Specs: Slim size, 1000dpi
mouse, retractable cable and
velvet pouch included.
[ ]
APPLE TV
SRP: 101.00
Distributor: VIP Computers,
Westcoast
They say: Stream films, music,
photos and more to the smaller,
redesigned Apple TV. All you
need is a single cable to set it up.
Specs: TV programmes, music,
photos and more to the
redesigned Apple TV.
[ ]
BELKIN SLIM FOLIO FOR
IPAD 2
SRP: 34.99
They say: Minimal and sleek,
this versatile case lets you enjoy
your iPad 2 comfortably with
multiple viewing angles and a
typing mode that's perfect for
email and chatting.
Specs: Combination case and
stand, 9.7-inch, scratch-proof,
camera lens cutout, built-in
stand.
>>>
[ ]
ARCTIC COOLING E361
HEADPHONES
SRP: 14.99
They say: The large driver coil
leads to ultimate bass
performance, while the precisely
milled aluminium chassis
transmits a perfect balance of
high and low frequencies.
Specs: Three sets of silicone
caps, ultra-soft material, gold-
plated stereo plug for
uncompromised signal
transmission, iPhone compatible.
[ ]
APPLE IPAD DOCK
CONNECTOR TO VGA ADAPTER
SRP: 35.00
Westcoast
They say: Put your slides, movies,
photos, and everything else that
fills your iPad 2 screen on an even
bigger screen a VGA-equipped
TV, monitor or external projector.
Specs: Use the Apple VGA Adapter
to mirror whatevers on your iPad 2
screen. Connect an iPad, iPhone 4,
or iPod touch to a television,
projector, or other VGA display.
[ ]
EXPRESS MOUSE
SRP: 19.99
They say: Even your mouse can
make a statement.
Specs: Three customizable
buttons, BlueTrack technology,
ambidextrous design.
[ ]
FANNY WANG ON EAR
HEADPHONES
SRP: 149.99
Distributor: VIP Computers
They say: These premium
headphones are tuned to deliver
thumping bass with crystal clear
mids and highs. Sound balance
and clarity are the most essential
characteristics of the Fanny Wang
audio experience, a truly versatile
and beautiful sound.
Specs: Custom paired titanium-
plated drivers, integrated Duo
Jack, tri-fold design.
[ ]
XOOPAR SOLO PLUS
SRP: 15.99
They say: The Solo Plus
combines excellent sound with
rhythm in light.
Specs: Up to four hours
continuous play time, 3W
output, rechargeable USB
battery, velvet pouch and USB
cable included.
[ ]
SANDBERG USB
SHARE LINK
SRP: 32.99
They say: The Sandberg USB
Share Link PC-MAC allows you to
easily transfer files between a
Windows PC and a MAC. The
Go! Suite program is located on
a chip in the USB connector itself
and starts automatically so that
you can select and copy files
immediately.
Specs: 1.5 metres, time-saving
shortcut.
[ ]
TRUST CURVE 7 PORT
USB 2.0 HUB
SRP: 15.99
They say: This stylish and
slimline high speed hub allows
the user to create 7 USB ports
within hand-reach for fast
connection of your iPod, memory
stick or camera.
Specs: Seven USB 2.0 ports,
includes wall power adapter,
plug and play, backwards
compatible.
[ ]
ARC MOUSE
SRP: 49.99
They say: You take your
notebook PC everywhere. Thats
why the Arc Mouse is designed
to go with you. Expanded, its a
sturdy and comfortable full-sized
mouse. Folded, it fits perfectly
into your bag.
Specs: Lightweight and
compact, stowable nano
transceiver, 2.4 GHz wireless.
[ ]
APPLE IPAD 10W USB
POWER ADAPTER
SRP: 25.00
Westcoast
They say: Your iPad includes a
10W USB Power Adapter for
charging iPad directly through an
electrical outlet. Purchase this
additional adapter to have a
second charger for home or
office. This adapter includes a 6-
foot-long power cord so you can
charge iPad from further away.
Specs: Use this ultracompact
and convenient USB-based power
adapter to charge your iPad at
home, on the road, or whenever
its not connected to a computer.
[ ]
BELKIN GRIP STAND
SRP: 14.99
They say: Enjoy the unique
experience of the all-in-one case and
stand solution. View your iPad your
way with the versatile and protective
case with an innovative handstrap
for 360 degree viewing.
Specs: Enjoy the unique experience
of the all-in-one case and stand
solution, swap out the handstrap
and replace it with a multi-position
kickstand for table-top viewing and
typing mode, quick-release design.
[ ]
CREATIVE GIGAWORKS
T40 SERIES II
SRP: 109.99
Distributor: Realtime
Distribution
They say: Creative takes your
music to a new level of
excellence with the GigaWorks
T40 Series II speaker system.
Specs: Top-of-the-line two-piece
speaker system professional
quality woofer drivers and high-
tech tweeters BasXPort
technology.
[ ]
APPLE IPAD 2 BASE DOCK
SRP: 25.00
Westcoast
They say: This sleek dock is your
personal hub for all things iPad.
Specifically designed for iPad 2, it
gives you easy access to a port
for syncing or charging and an
audio line out port for
connecting to powered speakers
via an optional audio cable.
Specs: Connect the dock to your
computer with the USB cable
included with your iPad 2 to sync
iPad 2 and charge its battery.
[ ]
BAMBOO STYLUS
SRP: 24.99
Distributor: Ingram Micro
They say: Simple but elegant,
Bamboo Stylus further enhances
numerous applications designed for
the iPad by allowing users to express
themselves and personalise their
work.
Specs: Improves experiences with
applications for sketching, black and
silver design with satin-textured
metal body, 25 per cent slimmer tip
than other solutions on the market,
compatible with all media tablets
using capacitive touch technology.
[ ]
XOOPAR FEVER MOUSE
SRP: 15.99
They say: The Fever wired
interactive LED mouse integrates
a mini interactive LED lighting
system that is synchronized to
beautiful ash patterns with music
or voice.
Specs: 1000dpi mouse, plug and
play, Windows and Mac
compatible.
>>>
[ ]
ARC KEYBOARD
SRP: 49.99
They say: Meet the Arc Keyboard with beautiful curves and a compact
design, its at home wherever you are.
Specs: Clean lines and eye-catching shape, stowable nano transceiver, 2.4
GHz wireless.
[ ]
ALTEC-LANSING MP450 STAND
SRP: 99.99
Distributor: Micro-P
They say: Now you can do other things while watching videos on your
iPad. The Octiv Stage speaker system lets you dock your iPad in portrait or
landscape orientation at a comfortable, optimal viewing angle.
Specs: Powerful, clear sound, charges an iPad while docked, stand pivots
to portrait or landscape orientation, full-featured remote control, auxiliary
input jack.
>>>
[ ]
FREECOM MOBILE DRIVE MG 750GB
SRP: 119.99
They say: Mobile Drive Mg - an elegant mobile hard drive designed
specifically for the Mac market. Encased in an ultra-lightweight and
strong magnesium enclosure, the Mg is a 100 percent match for any
Apple MacBook perfect for style-conscious Mac users and at just
7mm is also the thinnest mobile hard drive available in the world.
Specs: Ultra thin mobile hard drive in stylish design, complements the
design of a MacBook, magnesium enclosure, Mac HFS+ formatted, power
via USB port.
[ ]
IMAGE IPAD CASE
SRP: 74.99
They say: iMage for iPad is a stylish black faux-leather, protective iPad case
with in-built keyboard. Inside the case is a Bluetooth detachable UK Apple
layout keyboard with a 10 metre range.
Specs: Bluetooth wireless connection to iPad, detachable ultra slim
Bluetooth keyboard with ten metre range, micro USB cable can also be
used in iPad mains wall charger, inbuilt contoured wristpad, internal longlife
lithium-ion battery.
Maximum Performance Wireless-N Router
Linksys E4200
U Creating a fast, wireless home network to serve active
online households and home entertainment systems
U Streaming HD video and music, and multiplayer gaming
U Transferring and downloading large les
U Connecting multiple users and devices - including
laptops, Internet-Ready TVs, Blu-ray players, and gaming
consoles
U Adding data storage, printers and other USB devices to
your wireless network, and streaming media les
U Larger homes or densely populated areas
Simple
set-up
Its so easy to setup your network
Guest
Access
Parental
Control
www.linksysbycisco.com
2011 Cisco. All rights reserved. Cisco, the Cisco logo and Linksys are trademarks or registered trademarks of Cisco and/or its afliates in the United States and certain other countries.
All other trademarks mentioned in this document or website are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does not imply a partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company.
Dual-Band Wireless-N ADSL2+
Modem Gigabit Router
Linksys WAG320N
U All-in-one ADSL2+ modem, router,
wireless access point, and 4-port
switch
U Radio band selectable to avoid
interference
U Gigabit ports offer fast connectivity
for wired devices
5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch
Linksys SE2500
U Wired connection speed up to 1000 Mbps
U 5 Gigabit Ethernet auto-sensing ports
U Quality of Service (QoS) trafc prioritization
U Power saving features
U Easy plug & play connection
8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch
Linksys SE2800
U Wired connection speed up to 1000 Mbps
U 8 Gigabit Ethernet auto-sensing ports
U Quality of Service (QoS) trafc prioritization
U Power saving features
U Easy plug & play connection
Get Connected!
With the worldwide leader in networking
Linksys E4200
Take your entertainment further
with a new Design
WINNER
2011
Panasonic Product Manager:
0333 101 9579
syst ems@ent at ech.com
www.ent at ech.com
Entaonline
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APRIL SAW surprising growth in GfKs
Panel Market (the IT market), up 11.6
per cent in terms of units sold and a
29.6 per cent surge in the value of the
market over the period from April 2010
to April 2011. This improvement is
especially significant given the slightly
gloomy picture last month and suggests
that there might be a couple of groups
which have performed exceptionally
recently and thus obscured the overall
picture of the IT market.
This idea is given further credence by
the fact that the business channels saw
the lions share of this growth, jumping
77.8 per cent in value terms over the
same period, compared to the retail
side of the IT market, which saw a 1.8
per cent decline between April 2010
and April 2011.
So which products can we attribute
this growth to? It seems that software
provides the best answer. If we exclude
client-software, May 2010 to April 2011
saw a 397 per cent increase in the
overall value of this product group, due
mostly to a 182 per cent growth in the
average selling price of software
products. The aforementioned business
channels again account for the majority
of this growth, with a value increase of
670 per cent over the same period,
again excluding client-software.
It seems, therefore, that this growth
can be attributed to businesses
investing in new software and licences
at the end of the financial year, as
opposed to individual consumers
buying software packages. The
interesting element is the price increase,
which could be a result of businesses
buying more multi-user security packages.
There are some areas which provide a
more positive picture for retailers,
however. Whilst webbooks (tablets)
continued their meteoric rise, the e-
assistants product group which includes
e-readers also continues to grow,
showing a value increase of 93.2 per
cent between March and April 2011 in
the retail channels, following a very
strong year which saw this product
group grow 324 per cent in value terms
between April 2010 and April 2011 in
these channels. Undoubtedly it is e-
books that drive this product group,
accounting for 95.4 per cent of the
value within this group in April 2011.
This growth is unsurprising, given e-
readers relatively recent ascent towards
ubiquity, and the fact that the average
selling price of e-readers has fallen by
31 per cent between April 2010 and
April 2011. Furthermore, the number
of different models of e-readers
available has increased by 62 per cent
over the same period.
It seems then that increased choice
and lower price have helped this
product group grow. It is interesting
that webbooks and e-readers continue
to grow while more traditional
computing product groups experience a
decline. Whether this is indicative of a
shift in the way we access information
or merely a result of these products
relatively recent introduction into the
market it is difficult to say.
For further information please contact
Dominic Ashford in the UK on +44
870 603 8214 or
dominic.ashford@gfk.com,
www.gfkrt.com/uk
Software bolsters
sluggish IT market
Account manager Dominic
Ashford talks about the effect of
enterprise software on the wider
market and examines the
performance of the e-reader and
tablet sectors...
It is interesting
that webbooks
and e-readers
continue to
grow while
more traditional
computing groups
experience a decline.
Dominic Ashford,
GfK
GFK ANALYSIS S IT HARDWARE
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Find out more at brother.co.uk
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N
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3
15025

Software
PCRs monthly look at recent developments in the software market
MAC SOFTWARE
With a well established reputation as a design platform, growing popularity
among the public, and an expanding games portfolio, the Mac-compatible
software segment offers greater opportunities than ever before. Helen
French gives an overview of some of the latest titles...
p
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7
www.pcretailmag.com July PCR 57
SOFTWARE S MAC SOFTWARE
[ ]
FAMILY TREE MAKER
FOR MAC PLATINUM
SRP: 61.27
They say: Easily discover your family history
with the new Mac version of the worlds
number one selling family history software.
Specs: Create family books, calendars,
charts and reports to share with family and
friends. Add photos, documents, audio and
video files directly into your tree. Free six-
month premium membership to
Ancestry.co.uk. View timelines and
interactive maps highlighting events and
places in your ancestors lives. Printed
companion guide to Family Tree Maker for
Mac. Tree to Go App for the iPhone, iPod
touch and iPad.
[ ]
MICROSOFT OFFICE
FOR MAC 2011 HOME
AND BUSINESS
SRP: 189 for one install, one user;
239.99 for two installs, one user.
Distributors: Ingram Micro,
Westcoast, Gem, Computer 2000
They say: Create professional
documents and presentations. And
as Office for Mac 2011 is compatible
with Office for Windows, you can
work on documents with virtually
anyone, anywhere.
Specs: Outlook for Mac, Ribbon
access favourite commands quickly,
Office Web Apps, Coauthoring,
template gallery, photo editing,
Presentation Broadcast, Sparklines,
Visual Basic support, dynamic
reordering.
[ ]
MICROSOFT OFFICE
FOR MAC HOME AND
STUDENT 2011
SRP: 89.99 one user, 109.99 for
three users.
Distributors: Ingram Micro,
Westcoast, Gem, Computer 2000
They say: Office for Mac 2011 is here
to help you do more with your Mac,
your way. Use familiar applications like
Word, Excel, and PowerPoint to help
you take your ideas further.
Specs: Ribbon access favourite
commands quickly, Office Web Apps,
Coauthoring, template gallery, photo
editing, full screen view, Presentation
Broadcast, improved publishing layout
view, Sparklines, Visual Basic support,
dynamic reordering.
[ ]
MAGIX RESCUE YOUR
VIDEOTAPES FOR MAC
SRP: 59.99
They say: With the original rescue
package from Magix, consisting of
Magix Video Easy and the practical
USB video converter plus SCART
adapter, you can back up your
favourite memories quickly and easily
to your Mac and then burn them to
DVDs or upload to YouTube.
Specs: Connect devices to the
digitizer without a SCART
connection using RCA or S-Video
cables; USB 2.0 port is easy to use
thanks to the plug-and-play
technology; Quickstart
function.
[ ]
STELLAR PHOENIX DATA
RECOVERY FOR MAC
SRP: 81.69
They say: This unique data
recovery software is easy to use
without prior technical knowledge.
A simple user interface makes the
process of retrieving lost and/or
deleted Mac files quick and effective.
Specs: Easy-to-use interface;
Retrieves and restores accidentally
deleted or lost data from a range of
storage media, including external
hard drives and iPods; Recovery
option of Mac multimedia data
including picture, audio and video
files is also available; Performs hard
disk imaging.
Take a bite out of Mac software
As Apple tempts more and more consumers and businesses to its shiny white goods, retailers should
consider stocking some core Mac software to cater to them. Helen French explores whats out there...
APPS AND UTILITIES
CONTACTS
Avanquest:
www.avanquest.co.uk/aquaconnect
CentreSoft: 0121 625 3399
Computer 2000: 0871 880 3400
Eset: 0845 838 0832
Focus Multimedia:
01889 570 156
Gem Distribution:
01279 822 822
Interactive Ideas: 020 8805 1000
Koch: 01256 385 200
Parallels: www.parallels.com
Westcoast: 0118 912 6000
>>>
[ ]
HOME ACCOUNTZ
SRP: 39.99
Distributor: Koch
They say: A perfect solution for
anyone needing to track spending,
record their income, budget ahead
and forecast their finances.
Specs: Multi-Currency; Download
bank and credit card statements;
Convert QIF files); Automated direct
debits and standing orders; Monthly,
quarterly and annual budgeting;
Graphs and charts; Forecasting.
[ ]
BUSINESS ACCOUNTZ
ENTERPRISE
SRP: 470.99
Distributor: Koch
They say: Makes book keeping simple
and adds purchase orders and supplier
tracking to the Professional version.
Specs: Manage clients; Design and print
purchase orders; Track bills; Automated
transactions; Organiser and event
tracker; Design and print invoices; Send
quotations and estimates; Track unpaid
invoices; Preset transactions.
[ ]
ESET CYBERSECURITY
SRP: 29.99
Distributor: Direct
They say: The most effective
protection you can find. It provides
comprehensive antivirus and
antispyware protection without
affecting your Macs performance.
Using the advanced ThreatSense
technology, it protects you from
new attacks during the critical first
hours. Detects and disables known
and unknown viruses, worms, and
other data stealing malwarec.
[ ]
KASPERSKY ANTI VIRUS
FOR MAC
SRP: 39.99
Distributor: Koch, Gem Distribution
They say: Fast and non-intrusive,
with only one per cent CPU impact
on your Macs performance.
Specs: Real-time scanning of files
and downloads; In-the-cloud
protection against new threats;
Kaspersky URL Adviser; Automatic
regular and emergency updates for
always-on protection.
>>>
>>>
[ ]
AQUA CONNECT
TERMINAL SERVER
SRP: Starts at 130 per seat
Distributor: Avanquest
They say: A new enterprise grade
terminal server solution. Allows
multiple users to gain remote
access to the Mac operating system
and its applications, whether or not
they have a Mac. Distribute Mac-
based programs with a single point
of installation and maintenance.
Implement failover systems for data
backup and recovery.
[ ]
ADOBE
DREAMWEAVER CS5.5
SRP: 357
Distributor: Computer 2000
They say: Design confidently, build
cutting-edge HTML5 and CSS3
websites, and add new levels of
interactivity.
Specs: Multiscreen Preview panel,
CSS3/HTML5 support, jQuery
integration, Native Android and iOS
apps with PhoneGap, Adobe
BrowserLab integration.
[ ]
ADOBE
AUDITION CS5.5
SRP: 278
Distributor: Computer 2000
They say: Adobe Audition CS5.5
software delivers the professional
tools you need to make video and
audio productions sound their best.
Specs: Native Mac OS support,
Roundtrip editing with Adobe
Premiere Pro, Project exchange
with third-party NLEs and DAWs,
Native 5.1 multichannel support.
[ ]
ABBYY FINEREADER
EXPRESS EDITION FOR MAC
SRP: 89.04
They say: Highly accurate and
easy-to-use multilingual OCR
(Optical Character Recognition)
software. FineReader Express for
Mac quickly turns any scanned
paper document, PDF files and
digital camera images into editable
and searchable formats while
keeping the original layout and
formatting intact.
Please turn to page 62
for more products
APPS AND UTILITIES
[ ]
PARALLELS DESKTOP 6
SRP: 64.99
Distributor: Direct
They say: Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac is the fastest, smartest and most powerful
version yet of the number one selling software for running Windows and Mac
applications side-by-side on a Mac without rebooting. With more than 80 new
and enhanced features, Parallels Desktop 6 delivers unprecedented advances in
productivity, performance and graphics the areas people care about most.
[ ]
MYSTERY CASE FILES: DIRE
GROVE COLLECTORS EDITION
SRP: 10.20
Distributor: Focus Multimedia
They say: The Celtic legend of
Dire Grove has been passed down
from generation to generation for
centuries. Considered a fairytale, its
telling was meant to frighten small
children into staying in their beds
through the night. A recently
unearthed artefact in England,
however, proves the dark legend to
be true. Use your wits and hidden
object talents to follow the trail of a
group of missing graduate students
in Mystery Case Files: Dire Grove.
[ ]
THE SIMS 3:
GENERATIONS
SRP: 29.99
Distributor: Centresoft
They say: Enjoy a whole spectrum of
rich life experiences with your Sims.
Start off in the imagination-fuelled
world of childhood and embrace the
drama of the teen years. Experience
the complicated realities of adult life,
then reap the benefits of growing up
in each life stage. A wealth of new
options and activities makes your
Sims lives more meaningful than ever
before, whatever their ages. With new
celebrations, dramatic life events,
and all-new ways for your Sims to
express their creativity, The Sims 3
Generations lets your Sims live life to
the fullest.
[ ]
WORLD OF WARCRAFT
CATACLYSM
SRP: 29.99
Distributor: Centresoft
They say: An ancient evil lies
dormant within Deepholm, the
domain of earth in the Elemental
Plane. Hidden away in a secluded
sanctuary, the corrupted Dragon
Aspect Deathwing has waited,
recovering from the wounds of his
last battle against Azeroth and
biding his time until he can reforge
the world in molten fire. In this
expansion pack for World of
Warcraft, there are two new
playable races, the level cap is
increased to 85 and there are new
high-level zones and flying mounts
in Azeroth.
[ ]
THE SETTLERS 7:
PATHS TO A KINGDOM
SRP: 10.20
They say: Set in the early
Renaissance period, will you have
what it takes to resolve the division
between the Tandrian and Kuron
kingdoms? Be diplomatic, manage
your resources, forge your armies
and make your own path in the
world of The Settlers.
[ ]
TEACHING-YOU 31
LANGUAGES OF THE WORLD
SRP: 10.20
They say: Whether youre fascinated
by different languages, or want to
greet business partners in their native
language, Teaching-you 31
Languages of the World will have you
speaking and understanding foreign
languages in no time. Learn listening,
reading, and speaking skills quickly
and easily with its speech recognition
technology and immersion approach.
[ ]
ENCYCLOPAEDIA
BRITANNICA 2011
ULTIMATE EDITION
SRP: 40.84
They say: The all-in-one research
companion for all ages. Ideal for
research, homework or everyday fact-
finding, the Encyclopaedia Britannica
2011 Ultimate Edition is packed with
a wealth of trusted information
written by Nobel laureates, historians,
curators, professors, and other noted
authorities and rich multimedia.
>>> EDUCATIONAL
>>> GAMES
[ ]
EDALIVE RANGE
SRP: 16.99 each
Distributor: Koch Media
They say: These EdAlive titles, including Baggin Dragon v2, Spelling Force v2,
Typing Tournament v2, Ultimate Maths Invaders v2, Volcanic Panic v2 and
Words Rock v2, are the ideal software to teach any child. They each have a
simple, kid-friendly animated interface that enhances self-directed learning.
They cover topics from maths to spelling and typing.
VIP Computers recommends genuine Microsoft
software
Windows Server 2008 R2 with Service Pack
1 provides new virtualisation technology to
enable your customer to deliver more advanced
capabilities to their business for increased IT
efciency and agility. It includes the ability to
consolidate servers, build a private cloud and
utilise the Virtual Desktop Infrastructure.
Windows Server 2008 R2 (SP1)
Copyright VIP Computer Centre Limited. 2011. Information correct at time of publication E&OE
0871 622 7500
Which Server Is
Right For Your
Customer?
If your customer is looking to stream media
content such as les, photos, videos and
music to any TV or computer in their house,
suggest Windows Home Server 2011. It also
includes back-up software to keep their les
safe and sound.
Windows Home
Server 2011 64-Bit
Ideal as a rst server for small businesses with up to 25 users,
it provides a cost-effective and easy-to-use solution to help
protect data and access business information from virtually
anywhere via its remote access feature. Windows SBS 2011
Essentials also enables employees to share printing access
and doesnt require dedicated in-house IT staff to run it.
Windows SBS 2011
Essentials
THE NAS market has gone from
strength to strength recently as
householders, as well as small and
medium enterprises, realise the benefits
of utilising remotely accessible storage
from anywhere with an internet
connection.
With research from Infonetics
Research suggesting that the NAS
market will double in size between now
and 2015, storage specialists like CCI
Distribution are keeping a close eye on
this blossoming market segment.
Weve seen significant growth
selling in to small and medium
enterprise and the SOHO sectors,
business development manager, Simon
Atkinson told PCR.
Over the last six months, weve seen
huge growth in demand for QNAP
products; partly because its a new
brand in the market and also because
its had a really good word of mouth
response from users.
Atkinson notes that it has been the
second generation of NAS products
that have really caught on with users,
something that he attributes to the
wide ranging integrated feature sets and
regular firmware updates that these
devices now have.
QNAP and Synology have been key
players for CCI, continues Atkinson.
Theres a good amount of dialogue
surrounding both these brands, which
allows reseller to discuss and highlight
features like active directory support,
remote replication, uPnP and high
performance among themselves.
CCI PRODUCTS S SOFTWARE
NAS demand
grows with new
feature sets
Matt Grainger talks to CCI Distributions
business development manager, Simon
Atkinson, about the NAS market and its
recent sales performance
Over the last six months,
weve seen huge growth
in demand for QNAP
products; partly because
its a new brand in the
market and also because
its had a really good
word of mouth response
from users.
Simon Atkinson,
CCI Distribution
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backup and security are
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solution.
Specs: Optimal price/performance
ratio, RAID protection, Windows, Mac and Linux cross platform file
sharing, backup services, AES 256-bit share-level encryption.
[ ]
QNAP ALL-INONE
NAS SERVER
SRP: 295.00
Distributor:
CCI Distribution
They say: A superior high
performance storage server for
cross-platform data sharing with
an energy-saving design.
Specs: 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch
HDD support, hot-swappable
hard disk drives with advanced
RAID management, gigabit LAN
with Wake on LAN, built-in
iSCSI target service and virtual
disk for storage expansion,
smart IP filter, low power
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MONITORS NOT INCLUDED
PCRs monthly section looking at recent developments in the gaming market
& Accessories
PC Games
FEAR 3
68 NEWS
A round-up of the latest developments in the gaming
software and accessories sector
71 ONLIVE INTERVIEW
We talk to OnLive CEO and founder Steve Perlman
about his game streaming service
75-76 RECOMMENDED
A preview of the seminal action horror FEAR 3 and a
look at the latest addition to The Sims franchise
Sponsored by
Digital gamers closing
gap on core gamers
INSTANT GRATIFICATION
THESE DAYS digital gamers buy more
games than the traditional core audience,
according to research from NPD.
I can see why. Once you place your
trust in digital methods of distribution
okay, perhaps thats not always easy after
the LulzSec hacking rampage last month
the next step is realising you can buy
and play a game the very moment you
want it, money permitting. No trip to
the shops or wait for the post required.
Services like OnLive (see page 71 for
more info), which instantly streams
games through the cloud, are going to
be a huge part of that trend going
forward. And after buying The Sims
Medieval last week and seeing my PC
creak every time I try to play it, the
thought of running it through the cloud
instead one day is very attractive.
But what does this mean for retailers
and physical product distributors? Is
there a way to grab a piece of this part
of the market? Are added value boxed
games the way forward? Or sponsored
live demo areas, perhaps?
Helen.French@intentmedia.co.uk
Sponsored by
DIGITAL GAMERS are becoming
a more dominant segment in the
gaming community, closing the gap
on core gamers, or what could be
called traditional media gamers
according to new research.
New figures from NPD state that
at 18 hours per week, core gamers
spend the most amount of time
gaming, but digital gamers are just
behind them at 16 hours per week.
The average number of games
acquired by core gamers in the past
three months is 5.4 games, while
digital gamers are the heaviest
game acquirers, reporting an
average of 5.9 games acquired for
any system/device over the same
time period.
The name of the game in 2011
seems to be choice. Gamers are
increasingly branching out to
methods of play other than those
that the industry has traditionally
expected them to use, said Anita
Frazier, industry analyst at The
NPD Group. Fueled by the growth
of smartphones and new tablet
devices, mobile gaming continues
to accelerate, and what a game is
and what it means to be a gamer is
evolving, reflecting the rapid nature
of change within the industry.
GAMING ACCESSORY vendor
Razer and mega-publisher EA have
joined forces to produce a range of
co-branded gaming accessories.
The products will be based on
some of EAs leading titles, such as
Battlefield 3 and Mass Effect 3.
Razer will produce what it calls a
unique array of gaming weaponry,
which includes headsets, mice,
mouse mats, keyboards, Xbox 360
controllers, bags and accessories.
We expect nothing but the best
gaming equipment to complement
our major entertainment
franchises, said Patrick J OBrien,
vice president of EA
Entertainment, Electronic Arts.
Razers track record in producing
phenomenal gaming peripherals
makes it the best partner brand to
deliver on our high expectations.
This partnership ensures the gaming
community the world over enjoys
Battlefield 3 and Mass Effect 3 as
they were meant to be enjoyed.
Razer, distributed by Realtime in
the UK, intends to launch the
peripherals in conjunction with
their respective game title.
By Andrew Wooden
Razer and EA forge
accessory partnership
FULL PRICE TOP 10
TITLE LABEL
1 THE SIMS 3: GENERATIONS EA
2 FOOTBALL MANAGER 2011 SEGA
3 F.E.A.R. 3 WARNER BROS
4 THE SIMS 3 ELECTRONIC ARTS
5 SHOGUN 2: TOTAL WAR SEGA
6 PORTAL 2 ELECTRONIC ARTS/VALVE
7 THE WITCHER 2 NAMCO BANDAI
8 WOW: CATACLYSM BLIZZARD
9 STARCRAFT II: WINGS OF LIBERTY BLIZZARD
10 THE SIMS: MEDIEVAL ELECTRONIC ARTS
TITLE
Air Conflicts - Secret Wars
Revenge of the Titans
Street Cleaning Simulator
Maestro: Music of Death Collectors Edi
Demolition Company Gold
The Dark Hills of Cherai
Fear for Sale: Mystery of McInroy Manor
Dungeons & Dragons: Daggerdale
Supreme Ruler Cold War
The Sims 3: Town Life Stuff
Pirates of Black Cove
Sword of the Stars II: Lords of Winter
Call of Juarez: The Cartel
Deus Ex: Human Revolution
Driver San Francisco
Dead Island
Heroes of Hellas 2 (PC)
Might & Magic: Heroes VI
Farm Frenzy 3: Ice Age
Golden Trails
Sengoku
Settlement Colossus
F1 2011
Alexander Fortune: Archipelago
Joan Jade
ON THE RADAR
PC GAMES & ACCESSORIES S NEWS
Research highlights
evolving gaming
trends, and
proliferation of
mobile gaming
NEWS BYTES
LA NOIRE COMING TO PC
Rockstar Games announced that the
critically acclaimed post World War II crime
thriller LA Noire will be coming to the PC
gaming platform later this year.
Originally created by independent
Australian studio Team Bondi, the game will
be ported to the PC by Rockstar Leeds and
will, according to a Rockstar announcement,
run on a wide variety of PCs. The
publisher said the game would also feature
keyboard remapping.
TEAM FORTRESS 2 GOES FREE
Valve Software has made the firms popular
multiplayer game Team Fortress 2 free-to-
play, relying on in-game purchases instead
of an upfront charge.
Originally released in 2007, Team Fortress
2 has been continually enhanced with over
200 updates by developers and Steam-
platform overseers Valve.
CRYSIS 2 BACKFIRED, SAYS
DEVELOPER
German developer Crytek has admitted
that its decision to target the wider
games market with Crysis 2 has backfired
a little bit.
The studio has been open about its
intentions to bring the franchise to a wider
audience. It has also said on record that it
had reservations about Crysis reputation as
a high-end PC game and was concerned
that the belief alienated a lot of the titles
potential audience.
QUAKE TURNS 15
One of PC gamings stalwart franchises,
Quake, turned 15 last month. Id Softwares
new parent company Bethesda posted on
the BethBlog to mark the anniversary,
including a video of the launch of the
multiplayer-focused QuakeWorld from 1996.
Quake is carnage. Carnage is good,
summed up one of the attendees at the
event. The video also features legendary
programmer John Carmack who describes
the multiplayer QuakeWorld as a pet
research project.
What a game is and
what it means to be a
gamer is evolving,
reflecting rapid change
in the industry.
Focus boosts
casual portfolio
FOCUS MULTIMEDIA will
expand its The Collectors Edition
range to 25 titles this year.
Alan Wild, PR and marketing
manager at Focus, said: The
Collectors Edition offering is ideal
for mass market consumption.
Quite simply, The Collectors
Edition range is the finest
collection of the very best in
casual games.
Wild continued: Successful
markets in every industry are
bombarded by the inevitable glut
of lesser quality titles and
products. Quality control is
absolutely imperative for
credibility and, more
importantly, instilling consumers
with the desire for more. If a
game doesnt reach our grade,
then it doesnt make our range
one of the many reasons why
people trust Focus releases.
All titles in The Collectors
Edition range carry an SRP of
10.20 and are distributed directly
by Focus Multimedia (UK and
export territories) and Interactive
Ideas (UK).
By by Andrew Wooden
Sponsored by
GENRE PUBLISHER TELEPHONE DISTRIBUTOR DATE
Action BitComposer 01256 385200 Koch July 1 2011
Action Iceberg Interactive 0121 506 9585 Advantage/PDQ July 1 2011
Simulation Excalibur Publishing 01869 338833 Open July 1 2011
Hidden Object Adventure Focus Multimedia +44 (0) 1889 571207 Focus Multimedia July 1 2011
Simulation Excalibur Publishing 01869 338833 Open July 8 2011
RPG Atari 01256 385200 Koch July 8 2011
Strategy Paradox Interactive 01675 481754 Open July 22 2011
Simulation EA 0121 625 3388 CentreSoft July 26 2011
Strategy Paradox Interactive 01675 481754 Open Aug 2 2011
Strategy Paradox Interactive 01675 481754 Open Aug 16 2011
Shooter Ubisoft 01279 822800 Gem Aug 26 2011
Shooter Square Enix 020 8636 3000 Open Aug 26 2011
Driving Ubisoft 01279 822800 Gem Sep 2 2011
Action Deep Silver 01256 385200 Koch Sep 9 2011
Puzzle Easy Interactive 0121 506 9585 Advantage Sep 9 2011
RPG Ubisoft 01279 822800 Gem Sep 9 2011
Strategy Paradox Interactive 01675 481754 Ooen Sep 16 2011
Racing Codemasters 01279 822 800 Gem Sep 23 2011
Puzzle Easy Interactive 0121 506 9585 Advantage Oct 7 2011
Puzzle Easy Interactive 0121 506 9585 Advantage Oct 7 2011
THE HOTTEST UPCOMING PC GAMES
PC GAMES & ACCESSORIES S NEWS
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PC GAMES & ACCESSORIES S ONLIVE
OnLive had a lot of big
announcements at E3 how are
things beginning to shape up for the
UK launch?
There were a lot of big announcements
made at E3, and theres going to be a
load more coming in the summer.
Then were setting up for it launching
in the UK.
The UK is kind of lucky having the
Americans go over every obstacle and
add every feature beforehand. When we
launch in the UK in the autumn were
basically going to have every device
supported, maybe 125 games, TVs, Blu-
rays, the micro console. It will work for
Android and iPad tablets, and there will
be some games specifically designed to
work with OnLive, plus lots of new
features. Well be expanding the voice
chat, deeper Facebook integration, and
the browser edition, which for example
will give you Flash on an iPad.
Think of America as the UKs beta
test. The UK has a far more uniform
internet backbone than the United
States does. And were hooked up
directly into it. So well actually be able
to achieve much better performance on
the whole in the UK than in the US.
Different countries have different
infrastructures, particularly if youre on
fiber. It will certainly work fine over
DSL cables, but if youre on fibre its
almost like LAN its kind of cool.
When we launch in
the UK in the autumn
were basically going to
have every device
supported maybe
125 games, TVs,
Blu-rays, the micro
console. It will work for
Android and tablets and
there will be games
specifically designed to
work with OnLive.
Steve Perlman
As the cloud gaming service OnLive gears up for
its UK launch in autumn, Andrew Wooden talks
to founder, President and CEO Steve Perlman
about its aspirations, and what its impact on the
PC games industry will be
OnLive
and kicking
Sponsored by
>>>
How
has initial
uptake been in
the US? Can you
give us numbers?
Were not allowed to
announce numbers because
were fundamentally a distributor of
games. I know it doesnt seem that way.
For example, the publishers can
announce how many games theyve
sold and so forth, but were a
distributor.
What I can tell you is were growing
exponentially. I think like anything
people were a little bit tentative when
they first tried it, and now what were
seeing is theyre putting in more hours.
People are saying hey this works.
Were accepted now as the fourth
platform.
On the whole things are going
extremely well for us. The strongest
indication of whether or not a
platform is for real is when you start to
see publishers do custom things for it.
For example, look at the fact that
From Dust has touch features that are
not applicable to any other
platform. Its much too high
performance a game to run on a
tablet, so its designed specifically
for OnLive. And youll be seeing
more things designed specifically
for OnLive.
And you havent come across any
problems with implementing OnLive
in the UK has it all been pretty
smooth so far?
It is smooth. We will go down to about
2MB/s. Again, to show you the benefit
you guys
will get, we were at 5MB/s
when we launched, and now were
down to 2MB/s. So that shows the
improvements weve done.
With the tablet well be able to go
down to about 1MB/s. The reason that
the download goes down is the screen
size, we dont have to send as many bits
down. If you really want to play a game
on a smartphone, then about 500KB/s
is fine. But when we get down to the
smartphone, you get to the point where
you cant see the maps and other small
details on a lot of games. So probably
the bottom of the road is going to be
1MB/s for playing the full library of
games on a tablet.
So thats the bottom of
the barrel in terms of internet
speeds, but how about in terms of
computer specs? How old and slow a
PC will OnLive run on?
Well go back as far Windows XP and
we work on pretty much every netbook
at this point. Every time we find a
netbook that doesnt work properly
with the service, we fix it. Its been
months since someone came and
said hey, heres something it doesnt
run on. Again, its your own beta
test, right?
It is possible there is a computer out
there that doesnt run OnLive, but I
dont know of one. Every Macintosh
that is Intel or later works if you have
an old, old PowerPC Mac then we
dont run on that.
Sponsored by
PC GAMES & ACCESSORIES S ONLIVE
The strongest
indication of whether
or not a platform is for
real is when you start
to see publishers do
custom things for it.
Steve Perlman
>>>
So any PC thats released in the last
seven years or so is pretty safe?
Yes. So on tablets we have iPad and
iPad 2. And the Samsung Galaxy Tab is
a good example it came out on Friday
in the States, and we had OnLive
running on it in about 20 minutes.
And of course we have a relationship
with HTC, and its building us into its
tablets and it works great. And weve
showed it running on the Xoom.
We have other ones in the works.
We have other really cool tablets that
are coming out later this summer.
Rest assured, well be on all of the
major tablets.
So youre basically going for
everything you can on smartphones
and tablets.
Absolutely. You have LoveFilm and its
not quite as widely used yet as I expect
it will be, as NetFlix is here. But here
every Blu-ray player, every set-top box
you can buy, every PC, Mac, tablet,
everything works with NetFlix. The
same thing is going to be true with
OnLive. If it is a connected device, it
will run OnLive. Its that simple.
With the graphical flair youd be
bringing there, youd be presumably
putting a lot of games on the App
Store and other portals to shame
can you come to a position where
you are dominating gaming in
these areas?
I think weve got a long road ahead of
us. It takes time for people to change
their way of doing things. If youre on
Xbox Live you might have your
achievements and other things that you
might not want to walk away from. So
rather, weve taken an approach of
trying to work together with these other
platforms. Were very careful to never
say forget your Xbox. Thats not our
view of the world. There are some
people that use OnLive just for demos.
And thats perfectly fine think about
it, if youre about to make a big
investment in a game wouldnt you like
to try it out before buying it? Its a $50
billion worldwide market for games,
were a 200-person start up. We dont
need to dominate the world in order to
do okay.
Were now looking at 2005
architecture for Xbox 360 and PS3.
Theyre getting a bit long in the tooth.
And I think what youll see are people
saying you know, I really want to play
this very high performance game that
just cant be played on a console. And
I guess at that point we become sort of
competitive, but whether its us or
someone else, theres a natural
movement from old game platforms to
the next generation.
If OnLive takes off, presumably there
will be less need for high-spec
gaming PCs? Could this mean
consumers wont have to spend
money buying upgrades and new
machines in order to play the
latest games?
I definitely think that there is a kind of
PC gamer who will look at OnLive and
say well I dont have to upgrade my rig
in order to play the latest games. For
those sorts of gamers, if the game runs
fine on the rig they have, they might
see OnLive as an adjunct, or they
might see some new games and say I
dont feel like upgrading, Im just going
to use OnLive.
But theres a whole new kind of PC
gamer who look at the world a lot
differently. They enjoy going and
upgrading their rig and they enjoy
tweaking things, making mods, stuff
like that. And we plan to work with
those guys too.
In this way well be working with PC
gamers those who are really into it
and want to upgrade. They dont see it
as a burden, they see it as a hobby. And
were all for that.
Sponsored by
Were now looking at
2005 architecture for
Xbox 360 and PS3.
Theyre getting a bit
long in the tooth.
Whether its us or
someone else, theres a
natural movement from
old game platforms to
the new generation
Steve Perlman
For a full list of publishers and manufacturers that Interactive Ideas represent, visitWWWINTERACTIVEIDEASCOM
!UTHORISEDDISTRIBUTORFOR
0208 805 1000
www.interactiveideas.com
kk
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most of your kit. iPad covers will keep your
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ideas for
DARK AND BROODY games dont
get much darker or broodier than in
the FEAR franchise.
A paranormal horror shooter, the
title mixes time-altering gung-ho action
with supernatural spookiness.
The plot takes some explaining. In
the previous game Point Man the
closest thing FEAR has to a protagonist
was forced to go to war with his
mother and brother as part of an
operation by an elite military unit tasked
with kicking in supernatural types.
Turns out that due to the fact the pair of
them had the unfortunate combination
of being extremely mental and extremely
telepathic, they had been going on a
horrific, cannibalistic murder spree. In
the end, Point Man had to kill them
both, and blew up half a city in the
process. Christmas round their house
must have been awkward.
Staying on track with the weirdness,
Fear 3s plot picks up with Point Mans
assumed dead brother Paxton Fettel
having returned from the dead as a sort
of ghost, thanks to his telepathic
presence. This time he appears to be
behaving, however. Just to make the
weirdest family reunion ever complete,
it looks like their mum Alma is back on
the scene too, and about to give birth to
something that could destroy the world.
The macabre stylings are given clout
by movie horror legend John
Carpenters (Halloween, Village of the
Damned) involvement in the games
production, lending his hand to some
of its spookier cinematic set pieces.
This title adds a co-op element to
proceedings, inviting players to jump
into the genetically enhanced, super-
soldier shoes of Point Man, or take his
mad brothers psychic powers for a spin.
The franchise has gathered a strong
following since the first title, and will
surely prove popular with those who like
their shooters eerie and dark.
In the previous game,
Point Man had to kill
both his mother and
brother and blew up
half a city in the
process. Christmas
round their house
mustve been
awkward.
Scare your customers with the latest in this dark and macabre franchise, if you dare... Andrew Wooden
explores the twisted world of FEAR 3 and finds out what players can expect from the first person shooter...
PC GAMES & ACCESSORIES S RECOMMENDED
Sponsored by
FEAR 3
Genre: FPS
Publisher: Warner Bros.
Interactive
Distributor: CentreSoft
Release date: June 24th
FOR OVER A decade The Sims has
been the jewel in EA's casual gaming
crown. With its huge fan base and
ability, it represents something of a gold
mine for the publisher and anyone
else involved in selling the games.
The premise involves playing as a
virtual person or household and living
the life of your choice. To many it
represents a more sedate, peaceful
alternative to the swathes of titles on
the market that tend to involve
shooting and getting shot.
The latest release Town Life Stuff, an
add-on pack for The Sims 3 offers
players the chance to give their town a
virtual makeover. Imagine if Gok Wan
had ended up working as a town
planner at the local council, rather than
slightly hysterically encouraging fat
women to disrobe on television. Well,
Town Life Stuff goes something like that.
Players can build a gym complex,
playground, laundry rooms, or libraries.
The latter may prove particularly
popular to UK gamers looking for a bit
of nostalgia, as there's a good chance
virtual libraries will be all that's left in
this country after the Government's
current round of closures...
Theres a plethora of new updates
for the home as well, so those into
interior design can work their magic
with a whole new set of options.
Its probably not going to win any
more fans over to the franchise, but
history has proven that the large install
base is more than capable of making
any add-on to the original a good seller.
Imagine if Gok Wan
had ended up as a
town planner at the
local council, rather
than encouraging fat
women to disrobe on
TV. Well, Town Life
Stuff goes something
like that.
For every Sims game theres also a whole host of add-ons and expansion packs in the pipeline, getting
ready to be unleashed on fans. Andrew Wooden examines what the latest add-on has to offer...
Sponsored by
THE SIMS 3
TOWN LIFE STUFF
Genre: Simulation
Publisher: EA
Distributor: CentreSoft
Release date: July 29th
PC GAMES & ACCESSORIES S RECOMMENDED
PCRs monthly look at recent developments in the consumer electronic market
Consumer
Electronics
SMARTPHONES
A look at some of the leading
smartphones on the market,
along with accessories to
complement them.
p
81
CONSUMER ELECTRONICS S SMARTPHONES
CONTACTS
Gem Distribution:
01279 822822
Interactive Ideas:
020 8805 1000
Ingram Micro:
0871 973 3000
Realtime Distribution:
01480 435881
Northamber:
020 8296 7066
Hama:
0845 230 4262
RAM Mount UK:
0208 894 1234
Westcoast:
0118 912 6000
Target Components:
01977 739300
[ ]
HTC SENSATION
They say: A smartphone that shines a spotlight on entertainment with HTCs
new HTC WatchTM video service. Crafted with premium design elements, the HTC
Sensation features the companys latest HTC SenseTM experience that puts people at
the centre by making their smartphones work in a more simple and natural way.
Specs: 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, 1 GB internal phone storage, 768 MB RAM, 4.3-
inch touch SLCD screen, 8 MP colour camera with auto focus and dual LED flash,
1080p HD video recording.
Smartphones represent some of the most significant marketing and R & D bucks in the tech business.
Must-have gadgets to tech fans, the different platforms gather partisan followings, and at a corporate
level competition is fierce. Andrew Wooden takes a look at a selection of the leading phones themselves,
and some of the accessories that represent nice little earners for many types of retailer
Get connected
PICK OF THE SMARTPHONES
[ ]
MOTOROLA ATRIX
They say: With its advanced dual-
core processing technology, the
Motorola Atrix puts the power of
PC in your pocket.
Specs: 1GHz dual-core processor,
up to 16 GB on board memory,
five MP camera.
[ ]
BLACKBERRY BOLD RANGE
(Available through Ingram Micro)
They say: Enjoy an all new web
experience with tabbed browsing,
get updates from your social
networking and RSS feeds in one
place and find everything at your
fingertips with universal search.
Specs: Built-in GPS, BlackBerry Maps,
integrate up to ten email accounts,
various hardware specs.
[ ]
HTC DESIRE S
(Available through Westcoast)
They say: HTC Desire S: showcasing
a spacious 3.7 inch screen, a stronger
and slimmer unibody design, with a
heightened sense of intelligence,
speed and clarity. It's reliability on a
whole new level.
Specs: 1.1GB internal storage,
768MB RAM, microSD expansion
slot, Android with HTC Sense.
[ ]
SONY XPERIA PLAY
They say: The Xperia PLAY. A
PlayStation certified Android
smartphone that lets you immerse
yourself in the games you want.
Specs: 4-inch capacitive multi-touch
screen, Snapdragon graphic
processor, real pull-out console
controls, PlayStation certified.
>>>
[ ]
NOKIA E7
They say: With its tilting 4 inch
ClearBlack display, full qwerty keyboard
and a fast access to a wide variety of
apps directly on the homescreen, the
Nokia E7 is the key to having a
successful day in or out of the office.
Importantly, the device supports
business applications from leading
enterprise technology partners
including Microsoft and IBM.
Specs: Symbian 3 OS, 16GB mass
memory, 350 MB internal memory, HD
720p video capture, 176g weight.
[ ]
HP PALM PRE3
They say: The HP Pre3 is
designed for professionals who
require powerful mobile
productivity with an eye on
personal connectivity, all
running on webOS.
Specs: 1.4-GHz processor,
3.58-inch touchscreen, full
slide-out keyboard, supports
industry-standard VPN.
>>>
>>> PICK OF THE SMARTPHONES
>>> ACCESSORIES
[ ]
APPLE IPHONE 4
They say: While everyone else was
busy trying to keep up with iPhone,
we were busy creating amazing new
features that make iPhone more
powerful, easier to use, and more
indispensable than ever. The result is
iPhone 4. The biggest thing to
happen to iPhone since iPhone.
Specs: 16GB or 32GB flash drive,
3.5-inch (diagonal) widescreen multi-
touch display, accelerometer.
[ ]
HTC CHA CHA
(Available through Westcoast)
They say: HTC ChaCha has a
Facebook button that lets you
share just about anything with
just one touch. Take a photo
straight to Facebook. Make a
video straight to Facebook.
Show whatever, whenever, at the
touch of a button.
Specs: 800MHz processor,
512MB RAM, five MP camera,
microSD expansion slot, Android
with HTC Sense.
[ ]
ULTIMATE EARS 400VI
BY LOGITECH
SRP: 64.99
Distributor: Gem
They say: Designed by Ultimate
Ears, this sleek, stylish micro
headset with on-cord controls
delivers a detailed and immersive
sound stage and crisp, clear calls.
Specs: On-cord controls, remote
and mic, balanced, top-firing
drivers produce extended high-
frequency response.
[ ]
PINPOINT WIRELESS
PORTABLE SPEAKERS
SRP: 24.99
They say: A bluetooth portable
speaker for iPhone, iPad and iPod.
Specs: Compatible with any
Bluetooth enabled mobile phone/
MP3/ MP4 Player.
[ ]
THE ARCTIC SOUND E461
SRP: 30
They say: The E461 is designed to
produce absolute audio precision,
allowing you to enjoy your music in
every single detail.
Specs: Microphone, in-line controls,
3.5mm TRRS plug, interchangeable
silicon caps.
[ ]
GAMEON GO-TX2 STEREO
BLUETOOTH HEADSET
SRP: 29.99
They say: Stylish deluxe dual
bluetooth headset with adjustable ear
hooks.
Specs:Bluetooth headset, adjustable
ear hooks, compatible with PS3 and a
range of mobile phones.
W IR E D W IR E L E S S M IC E P O S S E C U R IT Y
w w w . c h e r r y. c o . u k
C EL EB R A T IN G 4 0 Y EA R S
of innovat ion & evolut ion
>>>
[ ]
SECU4BAGS
SRP: 59.00
They say: SECU4Bags is credit card sized and easy to insert.
Your phone displays an audible tamper-warning and an alarm of
over 100 decibels designed to deter thieves.
Specs: Compatible with over 350 mobile phones, battery lasts
over 100 hours, rechargeable via USB cable.
[ ]
OTTERBOX DEFENDER
SERIES
SRP: 39.99
They say: The original multi-layer
case provides the most rugged
protection available for the iPhone 4.
Specs: Polycarbonate shell made of
hi-impact, shatter-resistant material,
Multi-Touch display screen cover as
well as a clear cover for the Apple
logo cut-out on the back, and
holster-style swivel belt clip.
[ ]
IDAPT I4
SRP: 39.99
They say: The IDAPT i4 charges up to four different
mobile electronics simultaneously which helps
eliminate cord clutter.
Specs: Three charging ports, LED display light
indicating charge status, compatible with 4,000
different mobile electronic devices.
>>>
[ ]
DUST OFF CELL
PHONE WIPES
SRP: 2.99
Distributor: Realtime
Distribution
They say: Specially
designed for smart phones,
cell phones, PDAs, GPS and
other mobile devices
Specs: Safe for LCD, metal,
plastic and glass, fast drying
[ ]
RETRAK RETRACTABLE
UNIVERSAL MICRO USB CABLE
SRP: 14.99
Distributor: Northamber
They say: Retractable sync charge
cable for smartphones, PDA's and
cameras.
Specs: Transfer rate of up to 480
mbps.
[ ]
XLNT EIGHT
EARPHONES BLACK
SRP: 29.95
Distributor: Realtime Distribution
They say: Professional sound quality
for smartphone and MP3 players.
Specs: 18 to 20000 HZ, 1.2m cable
length, 16 ohms impedance.
[ ]
RAZER MORAY PLUS
BLACK
SRP: 34.99
Distributor:
Realtime Distribution
They say: The Razer
Moray+ mobile
gaming communicator
is designed for gamers
who prefer to travel light
and without bulky headsets.
Specs: Omnidirectional inline
microphone, passive noise isolation with extended
bass, multiple gaming device adapters.
[ ]
RE:TRAK RETRACTABLE
1080P MICRO HDMI CABLE
SRP: 29.99
Distributor: Northamber
They say: Watch
movies/videos/music, browse the
web etc. in high definition on HD TV
from your smartphone.
Specs: HDMI 1080p cable with 10.2
GB bandwidth.
[ ]
MUSE - THE EXECUTIVE
SRP: 39.99
Distributor: Hama
They say: Nothing says Im happy
in my job like power-walking
through the city, trading stocks or
firing colleagues over the phone, and
still being able to use your hands to
swat away buskers
Specs: Three different sizes of
flexible silicone earbuds, in-line
microphone and call answer button.
[ ]
LM TECHNOLOGIES SMARTPHONE RECOVERY
PRO SOFTWARE BASED SOLUTION LM-LM026
SRP: 49.99
They say: Smartphone Recovery Pro is capable of
retrieving deleted data from all Apple iPhones up to iOS
4.3, compatabilty for Android phones will be added to
the LM026 at the end of June 2011. Over the next few
months we will be adding a Blackberry and Windows
Mobile version.
Specs: Software runs directly from the flash drive. No
need to install to your PC, recovers deleted data.
[ ]
LM TECHNOLOGIES SIM
RECOVERY PRO 3G/2G SIM
CARD MANAGEMENT
SOLUTION LM-LM023
SRP: 29.99
Specs: Sim card management
and recovery, forensic SIM
management solution, recover
deleted SMS messages (SMS must
be saved on SIM), backup, edit
and restore your sim cards
contacts and SMS (must be saved
to the sim card), set fixed dial
numbers, migrate from 2G to 3G
simcards, compose SMS messages
ready to send, permanently delete
a SMS message (cannot
recovered).
[ ]
RAM SUCTION MOUNT
RAP-B-166-202
SRP: 28.55
Distributor: RAM Mount UK
They say: Sporting a superior twist
lock base, and easily adjustable and
interchangeable component parts,
RAM suction mounts offer
incomparable support to all the latest
and greatest mobile electronics on
the market today. Well exceeding
their guaranteed support strength,
RAM suction mounts are secure
enough to lift a 10KG glass coffee
table without failure.
[ ]
SMARTPHONE SPAREPARTS
SRP: Various
Distributor: Target Components
They say: Target stocks a range of Apple and Blackberry compatible spares to
customers wanting to offer an additional, high-margin service. Originally stocking
just the replacement screens, customers have been requesting more and more
parts to cope with the demand for repairs. More products and brands are
becoming available all the time.
Specs: Spare screens, cameras, batteries, earpieces, chargers, toolkits for repair.
>>>
[ ]
HARD CASE WITH BUILT-IN
POWER BATTERY FOR IPHONE 4
SRP: 49.99
Distributor: Hama
They say: Hard case with built-in
power battery
Specs: Provides you with seven
hours of additional talk time, 250
hours of additional standby time,
rechargeable by means of USB cable.
iPhone including; SMS, contacts,
calls, photos, calendar, net history.
///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
MARKETPLACE
THE PLACE FOR BUSINESS
>>>
To advertise on these pages please call
Rob Baker on
ADVERTISER CONTACTS
01992 535647
Rob.Baker@intentmedia.co.uk
ADVERTISING IN MARKETPLACE
OFFERS THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS:
G Regular editorial coverage for new
product launches and press releases
G Company details listed in the online
directory with web link, logo and full
contact details
G Company details listed in the PCR
Marketplace Index
NAME TEL WEBSITE EMAIL PAGE
Addon technology limited 08448 011286 www.addon-tech.com p102
Brigantia 01765 603 300 www.brigantia.com info@brigantia.com p111
Cartridge Expert 01489 795 668 www.cartridgeexpert.co.uk info@cartridgeexpert.co.uk p109
Computer gear 0121 503 0666 www.computergear.co.uk sales@computergear.co.uk p111
GEM Creative 01279 822 800 www.gem.co.uk marketing@gem.co.uk p100
GEM Distribution 01279 822 822 www.gem.co.uk sales@gem.co.uk p100
Interactive Ideas 0208 805 1000 www.interactiveideas.com sales@interactiveideas@interactiveideas.com p104
J&J Associates 01752 336465 www.jj-associates.com p94
KMS Components 02920 713713 www.kmscomponents.com sales@kmscomponents.com p115
OCZ www.ocztechnology.com uksales@ocztechnology.com p96
PSA Parts Ltd 0208 8544 7300 www.psaparts.co.uk sales@psaparts.co.uk p88
SJ Software 01282 865 500 www.sjsoftware.co.uk sean@sjsoftware.co.uk p98-99, p107
Target 01977 739 300 www.targetcomponents.co.uk sales@targetcomponents.co.uk p93
VIP 0871 622 7500 www.vip-computers.com/uk salesgroup@vip-computers.co.uk p100, p109
Wasp 0845 4301971 www.waspbarcode.co.uk salesuk@waspbarcode.co.uk p106
MARKETPLACE S NEWS
GEM DISTRIBUTION has signed a
new partnership with Logic3, the
portable audio and video game
accessory company.
Logic3, which has a wealth of
experience in designing, developing and
manufacturing accessories, is already
established in 30 countries worldwide.
This move will enable it to improve its
reach into the UK market, with a
range of products including exclusive
brands such as i-Station, Screen Beat
and Top Drive.
Gem has extensive experience of
working closely with the retail sector,
helping to develop brands, and Logic3
is delighted to be working in
partnership with its dedicated teams to
deliver our products to customers with
the most efficient service possible,
commented Paul Croucher, sales
manager at Logic3.
Logic3 is a firmly established brand
that has a reputation for developing
innovative and quality products at
competitive prices, so naturally we are
thrilled with the opportunity to
represent the Logic3 brand as it
continues to develop and meet the
needs of the consumer, said Tracey
Tennison, general sales and purchasing
manager, Gem Distribution.
Distribution firm partners with Logic3 to offer range
of audio and game accessories
Xx
Gem makes
Logic-al move
REALTIME
DISTRIBUTION SIGNS EVGA
Realtime Distribution has signed a
partnership with graphics card firm
EVGA, which includes an
extendable warranty deal.
Julie Darrington (pictured above),
Realtime purchasing director, said:
Realtimes partnership with EVGA
complements our focussed
enthusiast PC gaming portfolio by
giving greater depth to our Nvidia
graphics cards. EVGA is an ideal fit
for Realtime due to its brand
reputation with PC gamers. A
warranty that allows for
overclocking is exactly what our
customers want.
EVGA is very excited to partner
with Realtime, which has a
reputation for offering personalised,
quality and innovative solutions,
commented Lee Rossiter, EVGA UK
director of sales. EVGA is thrilled to
find such a great match enabling us
to continue offering the best
products, experience, and support
in the industry.
STARTECH.COM PARTNERS
WITH MICRO-P
Technology distributor Micro-P has
announced that its bringing the
entire range of StarTech
connectivity products to the UK
market.
The range includes a variety of
products such as I/O cards, A/V
products, drive docks and
enclosures, specialised adapters and
converters.
We are excited about our new
partnership with Micro-P,
commented Paul Seed,
StarTech.com president and CEO.
This agreement will greatly
enhance the availability of hard-to-
find connectivity parts to
technology resellers in the UK and
allow Micro-P customers access to a
much broader range of specialised
parts that can help them complete
their technology solutions.
INTEGRA TAKES ON
VISTAPLAN
Integra Office Solutions has
partnered with Vistaplan,
a drawing office
equipment company,
enabling it to offer a
wider variety of
products and services
to its members.
Neil Basham,
Integras purchasing
director, commented:
The range of products
available will provide
members with increased
margin opportunities.
A dedicated account
manager will be available to
accompany members on customer
visits and this together with
complimentary product training,
marketing and sales support, will
give Integra members access to the
back up and support they really
need to maximise the potential of
this agreement.
Harvey Rose, sales manager for
Vistaplan, added: Our aim is to
enable Integra members to
distinguish themselves from their
competitors with our UK
manufactured products.
SHUTTLE APPOINTS
CENTERPRISE FOR UK
Small form factor PC
manufacturer Shuttle has
appointed Centerprise
International as a new
distribution partner in the UK.
Centerprise will carry a full
range of Shuttles desktop PCs
and will also distribute build-to-
order (BTO) systems to resellers
across its services, such as
system integration and the
education market.
It makes perfect sense for
us to strengthen our local
presence, as the UKs IT market
grows, to bring better service
to our corporate and education
customers and to offer more
timely introduction of new
products and faster delivery to
market, said David Pan,
general manager of Shuttles
Desktop Business Unit.
A full range of Shuttle BTO
solutions is expected to be
available to the UK reseller
channel from August 2011.
NewsBytes
Centerprise
COMPONENTS AND accessories
distributor VIP has added Apple
products to its range for the first time.
New products will include iMacs,
iPads, iPods and associated accessories.
The firm says the deal has come about
due to customer demand.
Dave Stevinson, VIPs sales director,
explained: Historically, VIP has
focused primarily on PC-related
components. However, our systems
business has grown exponentially, with
core resellers asking us to broaden our
offering to include Apple products.
Were thrilled to be adding Apple
products to our line-up as well as other
Mac related third-party products and
accessories. By being able to offer
resellers ASUS, MSI and Apple
systems, tablets and peripherals, VIP is
in a much stronger position to help
these business-savvy resellers leverage
demand in this growing market.
While delighted to announce this
new deal, Stevinson went on to warn
resellers that the margin on Apple
products is far less than that of
traditional PC products.
Now that Apple is on board, VIP
says it is a one-stop-tablet-shop for
resellers, with products from all three
camps: Windows Mobile, Apple and
Google Android.
VIP now plans to establish a new
Apple Business Unit and the
distributor is currently looking to
recruit a senior business manager to
head up the range.
By Helen French
MIDWICH has announced two new
partnerships that will expand its portfolio
one with LG video conferencing, and
another with Leba, which makes secure
storage and recharging solutions for the
corporate and education sectors.
The exclusive deal with LG video
conferencing solutions focuses on the
RVF1000 video-conferencing system,
which is a portable in-room system
with 720p HD video, 30fps HD
camera that offers interoperability and
content sharing.
Lee Baker, business manager at
Midwich, said: The launch of the LG
RVF1000 video conferencing solution
will allow Midwich to offer resellers an
attractive, accessible and cost effective
video conferencing solution, ideal for
the education sector.
The deal with Leba will enable
Midwich to offer NoteLocker,
NoteCart and NoteCase products,
which provide a safe place for
companies or schools to store and
charge laptops, phones and tablets.
Kane Barker, product manager at
Midwich, commented: With unique
features such as customisation and easy
upgrades, Leba Innovations extensive
range of laptop storage solutions
continue to strengthen Midwichs
offering as a one-stop-shop for the
education and corporate sectors.
Midwich inks deals with LG and Leba
The launch of the LG
RVF1000 video
conferencing solution
will allow Midwich to
offer resellers an
attractive, accessible
and cost effective
video conferencing
solution.
Lee Baker, Midwich
NEWS S MARKETPLACE
Distributor reveals plans to create a dedicated Apple Business Unit
VIP aims to take bite
out of Apple market
Right: Lee
Baker and Kane
Barker, Midwich
UK distributor adds video conferencing and secure storage solutions to its business and education portfolios
Were thrilled to be
adding Apple
products to our
line-up as well as
other Mac related
third-party products
and accessories.
Dave Stevinson,
VIP Computers
I COMPUTER 2000: The
distributor has taken on PETER
HUBBARD as sales director and
DAVID WATTS is promoted to role
of commercial director. Hubbard
previously spent 11 years in senior
sales roles with Dell and was
instrumental in driving phenomenal
growth in the companys UK and
EMEA business. In his new role,
Hubbard will be responsible for
overseeing the sales operations of
Computer 2000.
Watts meanwhile will take on
additional responsibility for PCs,
software, print consumables and
components, as well as overseeing the
Maverick, Consumer Electronics and
Datech businesses.
I PERFORMANCE
DESIGNED PRODUCTS: The
American vendor has kicked off its
push with the hiring of a European
general manager and the establishment
of a new European office in Windsor,
UK. CHRIS SPEARING heads up
the operation, having previously
worked at as UK/Ireland MD for
Logitech. He also co founded THUNK
consulting, a sales and marketing
consultancy and has held roles with
Microsoft, Port Designs and US
Robotics.
Im excited to be leading that push,
and look forward to building PDPs
European organisation, said Spearing.
I PANASONIC: Has appointed
OLIVER LEDGARD as Partner
Account Manager for the UK. As the
primary contact for the Toughbook
Engage Partner Program, he will head
up joint marketing activities, deal with
registrations and provide product
information to support customers.
Ledgard said: Panasonic is moving
from a direct to an indirect business
model for the distribution of
itsruggedised mobile computing
products. We are utilising our key
distributors in launching the European
wide partner portal which enables
resellers to download sales tools,
educational literature and product
information. We really want to engage
with the channel and work with them
to find new opportunities in our key
vertical markets.
I NEC DISPLAY
SOLUTIONS: STEVE COTTON
takes on the role of colour and media
sales specialist focusing on the creative
and print markets with the
SpectraView Displays, and FREDDIE
ELLIOTT has been appointed sales
manager for medical displays in the
healthcare sector.
NEC is a highly respected quality
brand with a broad range of products
already established in the colour
sector, said Cotton. We are well
placed to meet the demands of this
specialist sector and I relish the
challenge to strengthen and grow
NECs position in this exacting
marketplace.
Spearing joins Performance Designed Products G Panasonic takes on Ledguard G Cotton and Elliot join NEC
DIARY DATES 2010
APPOINTMENTS
The UKs channel calendar is full of important events. Here are some
upcoming highlights of the year ahead
If you would like to promote your event, please contact:
This information is believed to be correct, but potential visitors should confirm details with show
organisers before making arrangements to attend
C2000 CONNECTIONS
MARKETPLACE S APPOINTMENTS/EVENTS
JULY
C2000 CONNECTION
ROADSHOW
JULY 6TH
VILLAGE HOTEL, BOURNEMOUTH
The UK arm of Tech Data is going
out on the road to get closer to its
SME customers and give them the
opportunity to learn more about the
wide range of services the company
can offer. The distributor is taking its
Connection Roadshow to 20 venues
right across the UK over the next 12
months.
MICROSOFT WORLDWIDE
PARTNER CONFERENCE 2011
JULY 10TH
LOS ANGELES
The Microsoft Worldwide Partner
Conference (WPC) is an annual
gathering for the Microsoft partner
community to learn about
Microsofts roadmap for the
upcoming year, network and build
connections, share best practices,
experience the latest product
innovations and learn new skills and
techniques.
OCTOBER
CANALYS CHANNELS FORUM
OCTOBER 3RD
PALAU DE CONGRESSOS DE
CATALUNYA, BARCELONA
The Canalys Channels Forum, now
in its fourth year, will once again
take place in Barcelona, and
promises to be the biggest and most
prestigious gathering the EMEA
channel has ever seen.
LONDON INTERNATIONAL
TECHNOLOGY SHOW
OCTOBER 21ST
EXCEL, LONDON
The London International
Technology Show is a fantastic new
consumer event that will showcase
3D technology, computing, PCs,
Macs, tablets, photography, gaming,
mobile, hardware, software,
components and much, much more.
WPC 2011
David Watts Chris Spearing Oliver Ledgard Steve Cotton xx
Hubbard and Watts sign up with C2000
Freddie Elliott
16 Barn Close, Langage Industrial Estate, Plympton, Plymouth, Devon, PL7 5HQ
Tel: 01752 336 456 Web: www.jj-associates.com
Please contact J&J on 01752 336 465
16 Barn Close, Langage Industrial Estate, Plympton, Plymouth, Devon, PL7 5HQ
Tel: 01752 336 465 Web: www.jj-associates.com
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AT APPLES WWDC on June 6th,
Steve Jobs took to the stage in San
Francisco and, like the true global
celebrity that he is, handed over the
product demonstrations, which are
always the most time-consuming
areas of his performance, to his
executive team.
And what did they present? We were
told in advance
there would be
three products
announced, and
sure enough there
they all were: Mac
OS X v10.7 Lion,
iOS 5 for iPhone,
iPod and iPad, and
the much-
anticipated iCloud.
Ill briefly
sidestep the first
two, as new versions
or upgrades to Apple operating systems
are standard announcements at every
WWDC, and I certainly applaud
Apple for its pricing of Lion $25 for a
full-point major upgrade to OSX is
pretty unbeatable, even if you do have
to download it. And the new feature
list of this long-awaited upgrade is,
dare I use the word, awesome.
However, I think the Apple
community will struggle with the
concept of not actually being able to
purchase this new OS on a DVD
packed in a pretty, slim Apple box with
a picture of a Lion on it. Amazon must
be spitting bullets.
But iCloud? Hands up anyone
whos been with Apples on-line
services since .mac arrived ten years
ago? It gave the world the first vision of
what the forthcoming
(but at the time
unnamed) cloud
computing could be
all about. Then we all
lived with the revised,
very feature-rich but
less-than-stable
performance of
MobileMe.
The positive
onlookers are saying
that Apple has taken
the reliability of .mac,
the best bits of MobileMe, reworked
the clunky and cumbersome iDisk part
so that it will hopefully respond like
DropBox, and hyped the music ad
media capabilities to a performance
level that allows multiple devices to
share the content. Lets hope theyre
right, because if they are, this is a very
good thing. And very best part of the
news its all going to be free. Whats
not to like?
OPINION
I certainly applaud
Apple for its pricing of
Lion. And the new
feature list of this
long-awaited upgrade
is, dare I use the word,
awesome. But I think
the Apple community
will struggle with not
being able to purchase
it on a DVD in a box.
ME AND Microsoft are both very
interested in video communications,
with only a mere $8.5 billion
separating us.
Ive recently been replying to the
Department for Transports call for
evidence on alternatives to travel.
Yes, its true. The Department for
Transport is officially charged with
trying to stop people travelling.
And there was me thinking that was
the job of British Rail, BA cabin
staff, the geology of Iceland and the
M25 generally.
As I was filling in the forms I
realised how rooted we still are in
previous centuries. Many of our roads
still follow the routes the Romans laid
down hundreds of years ago, our
railways are on the tracks of the
navvies of the 1850s, and our use of
communication is to a great extent as
it was set down by our grandparents
when phones were black, heavy and
fastened to the wall.
Nicolas Tesla had something to
significant to say about technology. In
1926 he stated: When wireless is
perfectly applied the whole earth will
be converted into a huge brain... We
shall be able to communicate with
one another instantly, irrespective of
distance through television and
telephony we shall see and hear one
another as perfectly as though we
were face to face the instruments
through which we shall be able to do
this will be amazingly simple
compared with our present
telephone. A man will be able to
carry one in his vest pocket.
With the advent of HDVC on the
desktop and home/mobile working
there is huge potential to change our
work/life balance for the better. And
thats what we told the DfT.
PROFILE:
Robert Peckham is a 20-year veteran of the Apple reseller
channel in the UK, and has managed many major Apple
resellers. He founded the Mac Technology Association and was a
director of the Technology Channels Association until the recent
merger with CompTIA. He runs the Mac Tech Team support
consultancy and also MacTechnology.co.uk.
CONTACT: robertpeckham@mac.com
PROFILE:
Keith Warburton is a sales and marketing consultant in the
ICT sector. He founded industry body the PCA (later the
Technology Channels Association) in 1993 and is a regular
IT columnist and commentator.
CONTACT: ordermakers@gmail.com
Robert Peckham explores what the future holds
for Lions and Apple resellers alike...
Time marches on, but were still tied to the past,
even where technology is concerned. Keith
Warburton explains as he looks at how video-
conferencing can change the way we work...
Me and Microsoft
Robert Peckham, Mac consultant, CompTIA Keith Warburton
Nicolas Tesla had something significant to say
about technology. In 1926 he stated: When
wireless is perfectly applied the whole earth will
be converted into a huge brain... We shall be able
to communicate with one another instantly,
irrespective of distance... through television and
telephony we shall see and hear one another as
though we were face to face.
Ever seen an Apple-
shaped cloud?
AFTER THE RECENT vote by the
UK Channel Community to develop a
UK specific IT legal resource centre,
we at CompTIA saw it as an
opportunity to construct something
that went beyond a few random
templates, checklists and articles
beyond the easy things that can be
found with a bit of simple digging on
the internet.
Its our aim to go beyond the
ordinary legal sites and tackle issues
the way business owners face them,
offering assistance when and
where needed.
We hired a team of lawyers to work
in-house, creating the resources
alongside our member advisory
councils that helped guide us every
step of the way.
We think the end result is a
spectacular model and indicative of
how all future resources at CompTIA
will be created.
The CompTIA legal resource centre
provides information and resources in
a variety of useful formats. For
example, you can build fully
customised agreements with our
online interactive contract builder
tool. Not only will each contract be
personalised to your needs based on
how you answer the questions, but
since we host the process here at
CompTIA we can continually
update the forms based on industry
feedback and changes in the law. That
means you are always using the most
up-to-date contract for your situation.
The contract builder is only one
tool available. There are a variety of
self-serve resources in the form of
video learning, checklists, info-packs,
and so on.
Furthermore, since every question
or issue cannot be resolved through
self-serve resources, we provide a
community platform to exchange
information, with the ability to ask our
lawyers questions directly.
Its a complete and comprehensive
hub and the next best thing to having
a lawyer in house (of course, they
would find these resources useful too).
OPINION
The CompTIA legal resource centre provides
information and resources in a variety of useful
forums. And since we host the process here at
CompTIA, we can continually update our forms
based on industry feedback and changes in the
law. That means you are always using the most
up-to-date contract for your situation.
TABLETS SEEM to be a hot topic at
the moment and made a strong
appearance at the 13th Brigantia
Members Roadshow in Wetherby last
month the second in the series
entitled Cutting Edge Technology
from the Channel Leaders.
The Brigantia members and other
guest indies in attendance were shown
the Scroll collection from Storage
Options, offered through CCI
Distribution. Many members said they
were amazed at the power of these
devices and most
considered them
to be a hot
product for the
run into
Christmas.
Fujitsu
displayed its
range of
scanners and
document
management
solutions aimed at the SMB sector of
the market. It also announced its
plans to offer technical and sales
training to Brigantia members in the
year ahead, through a number of local
hotel meetings.
Most Brigantia members
questioned had only dabbled in this
rapidly growing market sector and
generally only when asked by an
existing business customer. After the
event, the feeling was that theres an
opportunity to revisit existing
business customers to demonstrate
whats available and to stimulate
interest and profitable sales.
Microsoft was on hand to explain
the workings of their Registered
Refurbisher Program and were well
received by members and guests when it
was realised what an opportunity the
stay legal campaign was. The cost of the
RRP licences through Enta Group was
also very well received and all could see
the profit opportunity having had the
program explained
properly to them.
In addition to
Scroll, Microsoft
and Fujitsu, the
event was also
supported by
Brigantia associates
AutoTask, AVG,
Bunker Backup,
Cambridge Laptop
Repair, CCI
Distribution, Connect, Enta Group,
IDS Box, JetTec, Techgate, and Western
Digital. The next event is being held in
Bristol in late October.
Next month Im going to look at
how indies could make ongoing
revenue by promoting mobile telecoms
contracts in the one to twenty handset
market to their local communities. To
be able to obtain an ongoing revenue
stream on an iPhone contract is too
good an opportunity to be missing.
CONTACT: WILLIAM LINARD
I WLinard@comptia.org
William Linard is CompTIA's Membership
Engagement Manager
CONTACT: xxx
CONTACT: IAIN SHAW
I pcr@brigantia.com
I 0871 703 4280
I www.brigantia.com
Iain invites opinions from PCR readers and will respond
though this column
CompTIAs Membership Engagement Manager
William Linard explains the ins and outs of the
trade body's new legal resource centre
Legal eagles
Iain Shaw takes a look back at the recent
Brigantia Members Roadshow
Wetherby calling
William Linard, CompTIA Iain Shaw, Brigantia
Most members had
only dabbled in the
rapidly growing tablet
sector, but now feel
that theres an
opportunity to revisit
existing customers to
demonstrate whats
available.
Tel No: 01282 865 500 Web: www.SJsoftware.co.uk/PCRetail
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SECURITY SOFTWARE vendor
Eset has expanded the remit of its
Mobile Security software to include
Android phones.
Eset Mobile Security is currently for
smartphones and pocket PCs that are
running Windows Mobile and Symbian
operating systems. Its designed to offer
both data security and protection
against emerging threats.
The software includes the following
features: anti-theft, remote wipe, SIM
matching, password protection, security
audit, SMS anti-spam and firewall.
After extensive public testing, we are
confident that we have released a
cutting-edge product for Symbian and
Windows Mobile users, said Mark
James, technical manager at ESET UK.
Smartphones are under threat and
there have been many reports of rogue
applications that use social engineering
to gain access into your phone. If the
infiltration is successful, hackers can
send text messages or make calls to toll
numbers. There have been reports of
spying applications as well, he added.
With the growing popularity of
Android phones, Eset has seen fit to
develop security software in this sector
too. The product is currently in beta
and available as a free download from
http://www.eset.co.uk/Beta/Mobile-
Security-Android.
Eset expects that general availability
will be from August.
Benefits include anti-malware,
intelligent firewall, sms/mms anti-spam,
remote lock and more.
CONTACT:
Eset
www.eset.co.uk
0845 838 0832
New version of Mobile Security goes into Beta
on Android and will be available from August
Eset steps up
smartphone security
PCR RECOMMENDED
Here...
Free app available now from iTunes
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BREFFOS SPIDER Podium is now
available from Peak Development after
the two firms sealed a new partnership.
The Spider Podium is a universal
grip that can be used to hold phones,
sat nav devices, MP3 players and more
while youre on the move. It can be
used in cars, on bikes pretty much
anywhere you can find to hang it.
Last month it made an appearance
on TV show The Apprentice, as
contestants had to sell unique British
products into the French market. It sold
well into independent retailers across
Paris and featuring on the show has
likely boosted its appeal to consumers.
It has eight notched legs, which both
securely hold items and also give a
number of options for placing or
hanging the holder. The device has a
rubber shell which can absorb shocks.
And it allows plenty of access to
whatever its holding so that they can
be used and charged. Its available in
black or white. Additionally, it can be
packed flat, so is easy to transport.
Zoe Marczak, product manager at
Peak Development, commented:
Working with Breffo is a great
opportunity for Peak and its customers.
The Spider Podium products are
genuinely innovative and they really
capture the customers imagination.
Virtually everyone that picks a Spider
Podium up can think of a different
application for it.
The Spider Podium has an RRP of
14.99, and Breffo has also developed
the Spider Podium tablet, which as the
name suggests can support larger items
such as iPads or portable DVD players.
This is priced at 24.99.
Contact:
Peak Development
01489 796 979
www.peak-uk.com
Peak partners with universal grip manufacturer
Spider Podium crawls
onto shop shelves
There...
Free app available now from iTunes*
*If you would like to supply video content please contact Jodie.Holdway@intentmedia.co.uk
Sponsored by
PCR RECOMMENDED
COMPUTER VENDOR Asus has
launched the U36 what it claims to
be the world's thinnest laptop using a
standard voltage Intel Core i5
processor.
Armed with the impressive sounding
Super Hybrid Engine (with the ability
to switch off USB 3.0 functionality,
apparently), Nvidia graphics and
Optimus power saving technology, the
laptop delivers 11.5 hours battery life.
The machines svelte profile is
thanks to a 19mm thick chassis made
from lightweight magnesium alloy with
nanometer coating. Apparently, the
chassis is capable of repelling dirt,
water and fingerprint marks.
It has a 13.3-inch HD TFT display,
500 GB of storage, four GB of DDR3
RAM and a five in one card reader.
It manages to keep the thin frame
cool with a dual heat pipe design,
which effectively dissipates heat from
the processor without adding any
unnecessary bulk.
The U36 retails for around 699.
CONTACT:
Asus
uk.asus.com
Asus launches
ultra-thin U36
Lightweight device created to rival products from
Apple and Samsung
HARDWARE manufacturer Archos
has unveiled two new tablets the
eight-inch Archos 80 G9 and the ten-
inch 101 G9.
The tablets are loaded with a 1.5
GHz dual-core OMAP 4 processor and
have a Seagate 250GB hard drive.
They feature Android 3.1 Honeycomb
the latest version of Androids
operating system and there is Adobe
Flash support to help provide what the
firm says is a full web experience,
including browsing and
communication.
The tablets come with Googles
range of mobile applications, along
with Android Market, which gives
access to many more such as games,
books, news and social media.
Furthermore, the G9 tablets come
with a 3G-ready solution so that users
dont need to make whats often a
difficult decision between wi-fi and 3G
models. Instead, they can purchase a
3G stick separately for 49.99, which
slots into the concealed USB port on
the back of any G9 tablet to enable 3G
connectivity.
The tablets themselves start at 199
for the eight-inch model, and 249 for
the ten-inch model, and will be
available at the end of September.
CONTACT:
Archos
Archos.com
uk-info@archos.com
Archos aims for top
of the tablet table
Firm introduces new range of G9 tablets
Everywhere
Over 14,000 retailers, resellers and IT trade read
PCR via print, iPad and browser every month
Over 50,000 unique visitors to
PCR-Online.biz every month*
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Sponsored by
PCR RECOMMENDED
YORKSHIRE-BASED technology
vendor Storage Options has expanded
its reach into the tablet market, with a
new product that aims squarely at
under-25s: the miScroll.
Its the fourth addition to the Scroll
range, and Storage Options claims that
the miScroll is the only tablet in the
world to have a replaceable high
capacity battery.
It has bright, colourful and
exchangeable covers available in a
number of designs, which the firm
hopes will catch the eye of
fashionable younger technology fans.
Its been developed to provide an
immersive multimedia and social
networking experience.
The device has 4GB of internal
memory, a 1GHz ARM11 processor
that runs on the Android 2.3 operating
system, as well as a built-in camera. It
weighs in at a lightweight 370g, which
should make it easy to carry around,
and also comes with a built-in mini
HDMI port for full HD output (1080p)
and a handy mini USB port for
peripherals such as a keyboard or
sound system.
Mark McCarter, brand manager for
Storage Options commented: We
expect the miScroll to be really popular
with the younger generation, due to its
bright exchangeable covers and
replaceable battery. We think the fact
that people can personalise the look
and feel of their tablet will really
capture their imagination.
The miScroll tablet is available for
resellers exclusively from CCI
Distribution. The replacement batteries
and covers are sold separately with
SRPs of 19.99 and 14.99 respectively
providing another source of revenue
after the initial sale. The tablet is
backed by a local-rate technical support
line based in the UK.
CONTACT:
CCI Distribution
www.ccidistribution.co.uk
01423 704700
Storage Options launches lightweight, personalised tablet for under-25s
miScroll aims for youth tablet market
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WHILE DIGITAL photographs are all
the rage now, many families still have
boxes full of slides and negatives that
they would hate to lose. Honestech
aims to solve the problem with the
release of Film Scan&Save, a device
that works with your PC to scan colour
or black and white slides and negatives
so that they can be stored digitally
and safely forever.
It has a five megapixel CMOS sensor
and a 2.4-inch colour TFT LCD screen
so that you can see whats going on,
with a white, three-LED backlight.
Photos are formatted into JPEGs at
either five or ten megapixels,
supporting up to 1,800 dpi resolution.
Theres even an auto correction tool,
so that users can improve their
photographs without separate software.
It scans in a single pass and works
with SD, SDHC and MMC cards. It
simply requires the user to have a USB
2.0 host controller/port. Once happy
with their photos, Honestech says it is
easy for users to transfer their scanned
images to PC via USB.
To use it, you just place a photo
negative or slide into the relevant tray,
insert the tray into the film scanner,
then launch the Scan&Save program
by pressing the Power On button. Next,
you have to select a film type from the
on-screen menu, look at the LCD
screen and adjust the holder/tray if
necessary. There are options on the
screen for if the picture is a mirror
image or upside-down image. Finally,
once youre happy with the result, press
the Scan button to scan and save.
Film Scan&Save includes the film
scanner, a negative holder, slides
holder, USB cable, power AC adaptor,
cleaning brush for negatives and slides,
user guide, quick start guide and a TV
out cable.
It has a MSRP of 79.99 and it will
be available from mid-August from
Gem Distribution.
CONTACT:
Gem Distribution
www.gemdistribution.co.uk
01279 822822
Honestechs simple photo slide and negative
scanning solution to hit shelves soon
Rescue photos
with Scan & Save
IT DISTRIBUTOR Centerprise has
partnered with Shuttle to sell its mini
PCs in the UK and one of its flagship
new products is the XS35-704.
Its a slimline PC which Shuttle
claims is highly energy efficient, with
low power consumption (16W in idle
mode; 20W full load) and noise levels,
thanks to a fanless case design.
The firm also says that having fewer
mechanical components reduces the
number of wearing parts, which
should make the machine more
durable and stable.
It takes up very little room its
only 10.04cm wide with a stand, and a
mere 3.85 cm wide without it.
It has an Intel Atom D510 dual-core
processor, integrated graphics and
audio, 2GB DDR2-667 memory, a
320GB 2.5-inch SATA hard disk
(without operating system), DVD
writer, WLAN (n) and a multi-format
card reader that supports SDHC, SD,
MS and MS-pro memory cards. There
are also five USB ports, and VGA,
Ethernet and audio ports.
The mini PC is compatible with
Microsofts Windows 7 operating
system (as well as XP) and has also
been tested with openSUSE Linux
by Novell.
CONTACT:
Centerprise
distributionsales@centerprise.co.uk
01256 378000
Centerprise increases reach of Shuttle PCs in UK channel
Slim down with
the XS35-704
BIOSTAR HAS announced three new
motherboards which use the AMD
A75 chipset and support the Llano
APU platform all are due out this
month, available from Target
Components.
The motherboards include the
Biostar TA75A+, TA75M+ and
TA75M, with the TA75A+ having ATX
form factor; the other two are micro-
ATX form factor.
These new motherboards include
native support of USB 3.0 (which
allows up to ten times faster data
transfer than USB2.0), DX11 graphic
core for 3D performance and Biostar
exclusive features such as Bio-Remote2
and Charger Booster.
They have a new heatsink design,
which Biostar says improves thermal
efficiency, and also include many
DDR3 memory slots and up to six
SATA3 outputs.
The motherboards are ready to go
from the box. System builders only
need to add a case, memory and hard
drive to complete a build.
The micro-ATX boards may well be
useful for people building media PCs
as they can be fitted into smaller cases
and dont need a separate graphics
card. They also have all solid
capacitors, providing, the firm
says, high reliability without the risk
of leakage.
Biostar motherboards have been
available from Target Components
since 2007.
Target says the brand has proved
particularly popular among system
builders as well as suppliers to the
public sector.
CONTACT:
Target Components
www.targetcomponents.co.uk
01977 739300
Firm says all-in-one chips offer more power
Biostar launches fusion motherboards
PCR RECOMMENDED
Centerprise hopes the
Shuttle XS35-704
will turn heads with
its sleek, slim profile
NUANCE HAS released version 11.5 of
its well-known speech recognition
software, Dragon NaturallySpeaking.
Dragon NaturallySpeaking enables
people to write documents and navigate
computers just by talking, and this
latest version adds several features that
the company claims makes it easier than
ever to create documents, send emails,
surf the web and use PC applications.
Now you can consolidate multiple
mouse clicks and keystrokes into a
direct voice command, such as Search
Amazon for Bluetooth headset. Users
can also turn iPhones or iPads into
wireless microphones to dictate into.
Text formatting has been improved,
so that simple voice commands can
complete a wide variety of
instructions such as bolding
instances of a particular word,
while the correction menu
now offers more alternate
recognitions and enables
users to quickly add phrases
to the vocabulary.
Dragon 11.5 has speeded
up its getting started process,
so that users can start
dictating as soon as possible.
The user interface has been
improved too, to make it
easier to get to grips with the
software and find help.
Software support has been
expanded, so that it is now
compatible with a variety of software
such as Microsoft Office applications,
Open Office Writer, Internet Explorer 9
and more.
Users who already have version 11 of
Dragon NaturallySpeaking can upgrade
to 11.5 for free as a download.
Contact:
Nuance
www.nuance.co.uk
PCR RECOMMENDED
New version of the speech recognition
software is launched
Nuance upgrades
the Dragon
To advertise on these
pages please call
Rob Baker
01992 535647
rob.baker@intentmedia.co.uk
NEW FROM Soyntec comes
Voizze 150, a range of brightly
coloured speakers.
These multimedia speakers for PC
are powered by USB, so dont require a
separate power adaptor, and have 3D
stereo sound. They have an output
power of 4W (2W x 2) and an
integrated volume control.
At only 440g, the speakers are
lightweight and compact, with soft
touch finishing. They are also
magnetically shielded in case they are
used in close proximity to a television
or monitor. Furthermore, they come
with a 36-month guarantee, which
should give any nervous consumers
welcome peace of mind.
The colours available include blue
sky, sunset orange, hot chocolate, sweet
violet, arctic white and black night,
and are bound to cheer up any desk or
table top.
The Voizze 150 USB speakers are
available now from Meroncourt and
have a SRP of 12.99.
Contact:
Meroncourt
www.meroncourt.co.uk
01462 680060
THE PLAYBOOK is Blackberrys foray
into the crowded tablet market. It has a
1GHz dual core processor, a high
resolution seven-inch multi-touch
display, up to ten hours of battery life,
and is 7.6 inches wide.
BlackBerry will be pinning a lot of
hopes on its BlackBerry Tablet OS to
make it stand out from the crowd.
Apart from not being Google
Android, like almost all non-Apple
tablets are, the OS appears to have
prioritised multi-function abilities as a
key selling point over rivals. A current
ad campaign focuses on the idea of
programmes running simultaneously.
It might have a hard time explaining
how or why youd want to run apps
simultaneously on a tablet but in the
firms own words: Apps on the
BlackBerry PlayBook run
simultaneously and in real time. So go
ahead
and browse
the web while
you video chat, or
fire off a BBM while
you watch a movie.
Multitasking on the BlackBerry
PlayBook is the real deal.
CONTACT:
BlackBerry
www.blackberry.com/uk
RIM hopes multi-function ability becomes
stand-out feature for the device
BlackBerry joins
tablet club
Brighten up desks with a
couple of Voizze 150 speakers
PCR RECOMMENDED
The colour of music
These multimedia
speakers for PC are
powered by USB, so
dont require a
separate power
adaptor, and have 3D
stereo sound.
Apart from not being Google Android,
like almost all non-Apple tablets are,
the OS appears to have prioritised
multi-function abilities as a key selling
point over rivals.
THE IT CROWD
If there is any real justice,
the Police statement about
the LulzSec arrest will simply
be Noob pwned. LOL.
Stuart Houghton, technology
journalist
@stuarthoughton
OUT OF OFFICE
This afternoon is being taken
up sorting suppliers not
doing their job. If you cant
do it then dont offer it.
M Limburn, Limbtec
@mlimburn
2K Games hosted a launch party to
celebrate the long-awaited release of Duke
Nukem Forever. Drawing over 400 attendees,
the event was dominated by Duke himself or
at least a man who looked like him who
spent the evening posing for photos in
monarchial regalia, gripping nerdy game fans
in headlocks and abducting hapless female
guests. Dukes back, baby!
Four members of the Integra
Office Solutions team took to the
skies over Swansea to participate
in a 13,000ft tandem skydive. So
far the team have managed to
raise over 2,500 with more
donations rolling in. The money
will go towards a 100,000
target, to be raised for Breast
Cancer Care, Help for Heroes and
the Fire Fighters Charity.
INTEGRA
DUKE NUKEM
THIS MONTH: Duke Nukem launch party, Integras paragliding
Main picture, left to right: Marketing manager Sian Haskell,
office administrator Laura Beech , creative designer
Cristina Bertuccio and marketing assistant Cerys Parry
I WAKE UP at 6am, drink six egg whites (Rocky style)
and go for a ten mile run alternatively, Ill drag
myself out of bed at 7am and into work for 8:30am.
I work on the Tech Select division of Computer
2000, which is the exclusive partner programme for
the small and medium business community. We
create campaigns and provide loyal SMB customers
with the tools, information and support needed to
grow their business.
As I manage the TD Agency arm of the business,
this afternoon Im working on a Sony laptop
campaign for TD Agency. TD Agency is the strategic
marketing agency that specialises in IT channel
development programmes. We normally have three or
four campaigns running at any one time, so it keeps
me busy juggling the various vendor and reseller
campaigns we have.
Aside from the Tech Select and TD Agency work,
Im currently working on a Back to School retail
guide which will go out to the Computer 2000 retail
database. The A5 guide has all the latest products for
the busy July and August education period.
After work I normally get to the gym or go for a
run. Im training for the 3 Peaks challenge, which
involves climbing the three highest mountains in
Britain within 36 hours, so I need to get myself fit.
We normally have three or four
campaigns running at any one
time, so it keeps me busy
juggling the various vendor and
reseller campaigns we have.
Lee Pearce
Marketing Executive, Computer 2000
Still not getting the whole
#3D thing. Yet to watch/see
anything that actually adds
anything to my viewing
experience #fad?
Darryl Hounsome,
IT professional
@Dazza_H
OUT OF OFFICE
www.pcr-online.biz Ju ly PCR 113
A
d
ay
in
th
e
life
Peak Developments
managing director Robert
Baseley set out on a
continental charity bike
ride for Cancer Research
UK in June. The route
covered 950 miles of
rough terrain, from
Lugano in Switzerland to
Catania in Sicily, in just
12 days.
After using a tablet
computer for the last 4 days
they are so more convenient to
use around the home than
carrying a laptop around
Kimbley Computer Services
@KimbleyComputer
After 14 years of delays and despite some harsh
criticism, Duke Nukem Forever has gone on to top
the UK games sales charts
Send your pictures to:
PEAK DEVELOPMENT
OUT OF OFFICE
SEPTEMBER 2011
I Hardware: Graphics Cards, Gaming
Peripherals
I Software: Games
I Consumer Electronics: Consoles,
Speakers and Headphones
OCTOBER 2011
I Hardware: Displays, External Storage
I Software: Security Software
I Consumer Electronics: Imaging
NOVEMBER 2011
I Hardware: Notebooks, Laptop Bags
and Accessories
I Software: Childrens Entertainment
Software
I Consumer Electronics:
Novelty Gadgets, Kids Gadgets
and Exec Toys
DECEMBER 2011
I Hardware: External Hard Drives
I Software: Self Improvement and
Creative Software
Christmas Opening Times
To advertise call Rob Baker on
+44 (0) 1992 535647 or email
Rob.Baker@intentmedia.co.uk
For editorial please contact
Andrew Wooden on
+44 (0) 1992 53564 or email him at
Andrew.Wooden@intentmedia.co.uk
PCR Editorial Planner
Describe yourself in three words
Firm, fair and friendly
How do you relax away from work?
I dont get much time but when I do I look
after my koi and tinker with my (home built)
garden and pond. Turning an old overgrown
patch of dirt into a designer garden with Koi
pond, stream, decking and a log cabin is an
ongoing project.
Whats your favourite book, film and music
album?
Im an avid reader with quite a collection of
books (would be bigger if my wife didnt give
them away after reading) of all kinds from
serious business publications, self help,
autobiographies as well as numerous novels.
Most recently I have read everything that Lee
Child has written a superb novelist highly
recommended
Coming from an Army background, I like a
good war film, so Black Hawk Down is
absolutely a must see.
On the music front I simply like anything
with a good beat and good lyrics - soul,
reggae or even some of the old crooner
stuff something that compliments my
special like me Dad dancing style.
What was your first computer?
A pocket calculator illegal contraband when
I was at school. I really got into computers
through supplying corporate main frame sites
with consumables before becoming one of
the first Amstrad resellers.
Whats your best memory of working within
the industry?
Over more than 25 years within the IT
channel, I have been fortunate to have
enjoyed dozens of fantastic memories, the
best ones I cant remember!
What did you want to do when you were
younger?
Build a successful business after I discovered
killing people was frowned upon.
When were the good old days?
When service and support meant more than
margin and margin on IT kit still existed.
When was the last time you laughed until
you were red in the face?
When Jon Atherton tipped me out of a Golf
buggy (you had to be there).
AUGUST 2011
I Hardware: Back To School
I Software: Back To School
I Consumer Electronics: E-Readers,
Tablets & Accessories
In the
HOT SEAT
Derek Jones
MD @ Synaxon UK Ltd

(MegaBlaze Com) PCR July

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COMPUTER & IT RESELLERS RETAILERS SYSTEM BUILDERS DISTRIBUTORS VENDORS JULY 2011 ISSUE 94

Turbo Boost Teohno|ogy 2.0

Turbo Boost Teohno|ogy 2.0

Core i7 2600K Processor

Core i5 2500K Processor

v|rtua||sat|on Teohno|ogy oomb|ned w|th

processor. Because whatever

i7 processor and Windows

7 Home Premium, the ET2400

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