Hardware Upgrade Tip of the Day #11



*1.  NEW WEBTV BOXES RUMOR          
  
It's not official, but tech news reports say new versions of the 
WebTV set-top boxes will be announced very soon. The new models 
supposedly include faster processors, are based on the Windows 
CE operating system, and feature one model that uses the 
EchoStar satellite dish network for its Web page downloads.  

Look for an official press release later this month online at 
http://www.webtv.com.


*2. DELL PREINSTALLS LINUX          
  
In another burst of support for the upstart Linux operating 
system, Dell (http://www.dell.com) announced that it will 
preinstall the Red Hat version of Linux on select versions of its 
PCs and include technical support for configuration and system 
administration issues on the OS.


*3. RESOURCE FOR BUILDING YOUR OWN COMPUTER          
  
For the novice computer builder, it's difficult to envision all 
the components you'll need, let alone know how much they will 
cost. Browse KickAssComputer (http://www.kickasscomputer.com) for 
a continually updated list of components, manufacturers, and 
prices, as well as where-to-buy info. The current 450-MHz Pentium 
III reference system at the site totals $1427.50.


*4. FLAT, NOT THIN, MONITORS          
  
You've heard about the LCD flat panel displays for desktop 
computers, but have you heard of the new flat CRT monitors? 
Mitsubishi's DiamondTron NF monitor is as large on your desk as a 
traditional monitor, but the front screen surface is flat, not 
curved like that of traditional monitors. The flat screen makes 
for less image distortion and allows viewing from wider angles 
than regular monitors do. 

http://www.naturalflat.com


*5. FAST CD BURNING          
  
Plextor has introduced a new CD-RW drive that can record CD-R 
discs at a fast 8X speed--most drives cut CD-R discs at 6X or 
slower speeds. The PlexWriter 8/2/20 also records CR-RW 
(CD-rewritable) media at 2X speeds and can play back CDs at 20X. 
Plextor plans to ship the drive in June for $569 (internal) and 
$649 (external). 

http://www.plextor.com


*6. SERVICE FOR HAYES MODEMS          
  
Now that Hayes has shut its doors, where can you turn for service 
on your Hayes modem? To an outfit called ModemExpress. This 
company can flash-upgrade your Hayes modem to V.90 and service 
the modem if it breaks. It also has software drivers for most 
models, available on it Web site. 

http://www.modemexpress.com


*7. INEXPENSIVE USB HUBS          
  
Adding a hub doesn't cost as much as it did to expand your USB 
chain of devices. Entrega now sells its seven-port, multifunction 
USB hub for $169.99. A few months ago, hubs like this were $200 
or more. Expect more discounts in USB as competition drives down 
the prices. 

http://www.entrega.com


*8. CABLING FOR FIREWIRE DEVICES          
  
Belkin now sells cables for IEEE 1394 FireWire devices. Its 
FirePath cables come in all combinations of the two distinct 
FireWire connectors--four-pin for audio, video, and camera gear 
and six-pin for computer peripherals. 

http://www.belkin.com


*9. FILTERS FOR YOUR MONITOR          
  
3M, maker of the popular Post-It Notes, has added a line of new 
monitor filters to its office products. These filters attach to 
the front of your monitor (without any assembly). They reduce 
glare, enhance contrast, sharpen color, and lower static 
electricity. While browsing 3M's Web site, you can peruse its 
ideas for an ergonomic office setup. 

http://www.mmm.com


*10. PC-SET TOP CONVERGENCE?          
  
Before the PC and TV converge into one device, we will likely see 
the PC and set-top box converge into one. Sci-Atlantic, for 
example, has announced a new line of set-top boxes that will 
really start to blur the lines between set-top boxes and 
computers. Its Explorer 2000, 3000, and 6000 boxes will support 
HDTV, video on demand, and many more enhanced TV functions. These 
devices also come with local storage that will support a wide 
range of interactive functions, including downloading, saving, 
and playing music from the Internet.  

http://www.sciatl.com
