Newsbytes - Internationa…ews 1983 May to 1994 June/Newsbytes - International Computing Industry News 1994 Edition - May 1983 - June 1994 - Wayzata Technologies (5045) (1994).iso/pc/text/mac_text/1993/nb930407

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(NEWS)(TRENDS)(TYO)(00001)

Japan - High-Speed Printer Offers 115 Ppm 04/07/93
TOKYO, JAPAN, 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Iwasaki Tsushinki, a Tokyo-
based company has developed a super-fast computer printer.
The printer prints at a reported speed of 115 pages-per-minute.

It is claimed that the operating costs are also low, and the
printing quality is quite high. Iwasaki's latest multi-page
printer is called the MG-8000. It is based on the magnet-graphy
method, which is an original printer technology of Iwasaki.

Under this technology, the printer scans the document and
creates a magnetic master image on the printer's drum. Then, the
printer develops the document and prints it out on a paper with
toner. This method is claimed to offer much faster printing speed
than that of current laser printers.

The printer can print at 480-pixels per inch. The printing cost is
only 4.5 yen (4 cents) per page. This is about half of that of laser
printers. The magnetic drum of the printer is claimed to be
durable.

The printer is currently available for Sun Microsystems'
Newsprint and Adobe's Postscript. It carries a price tag of
5.75 million yen ($50,000) and 6.3 million yen ($55,000)
respectively. Iwasaki is preparing to release versions for
Ethernet and Netware.

(Masayuki "Massey" Miyazawa/19930405/Press Contact:
Iwasaki Tsushinki, [phone])


(NEWS)(BUSINESS)(DEL)(00002)

India - Israeli Defense Firm Pulls Off Coup 04/07/93
NEW DELHI, INDIA, 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Sophisticated Israeli
technology for night-fighting and remote guidance is likely to
become available to the Indian armed forces, thanks to the
quiet entry of a leading Israeli defense technology firm into
India.

The tie-up, once affected, will enable Optic Electronic India
(Private) Ltd., a Delhi-based company that makes passive night
vision devices, to produce thermal imaging systems for the
first time in the country.

According to sources, the Israeli firm is Electro Optics Industries
Ltd., (ELOP), a leading defense equipment manufacturer in the world
market. It is claimed that the only competitors to this firm are
the UK-based Ferranti and Hughes of the US, the source said.

This is the first time that Israel has sought to enter into a
commercial agreement with an Indian firm for the manufacture of
defense-related equipment. Commercial relations between the two
countries were re-established only recently.

The move has created considerable excitement among defense
personnel in India, especially since most of this is proven
equipment employed in recent years. The thermal imaging systems
range from thermal sights for armored vehicles to RPV thermal
imaging cameras, image amplification, night vision observation
and aiming devices, infrared detection systems and thermal
imaging, night vision sights, and surveillance systems.

Although the manufacture will be in the export zone, up to 25
percent of the production can be sold in the local market. The
company source said that the cream of the Indian armed forces,
including senior officers of all the three wings, attended a
demonstration session addressed by officials of the Israeli firm.

Industry watchers speculate that some of the firm's exports
will eventually land up in Arab countries.

ELOP's clientele includes the Israeli defense forces, several other
armies and leading international defense equipment manufacturers.
Its manufacturing activities are concentrated on airborne and
ground complex observation systems, infrared search and track
warning systems and optical processing.

In addition, ELOP offers a range of day and night observation
systems. The commercial version of this equipment allows routine
preprogrammed point-to-point panning of fences, which are of vital
use in border areas.

(C.T. Mahabharat/19930405)


(NEWS)(BUSINESS)(DEL)(00003)

India - Alcatel-BPL Jve For Business Comms Systems 04/07/93
BANGALORE, INDIA, 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Alcatel Business Systems
of France, a member of the Alcatel Group involved in business
communication activity, has confirmed that it is in the final
stages of discussions to enter India through a joint venture
with the BPL group of Bangalore.

Nigel Hardiman, Regional director - Asia Pacific, said the business
systems group within Alcatel has identified India and China as the
key countries in the region for the coming decade and plans to
invest heavily in both countries. He said the joint venture with
the BPL group is intended to be finalized by June and should start
operations not later than the last quarter of this year.

N. Rajshekar, the regional manager of the project, said that the
project for the manufacture of an entire range of products (from
key telephone systems, push button telephones, answering
machines, videotex terminals, payphones, and networks) will be
anywhere between Rs 250 million and Rs 400 million and could
increase if the Indian government's telecommunications policy
for private voice/data networks is liberalized to increase
demand in this segment.

Hardiman said the project would confine imports to select
components not available in India and added that an evaluation
of local capability was already in progress. He also confirmed
that Alcatel Business Systems will hold 51 percent of the equity.

Evaluation of a suitable location in the southern Indian states of
Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu is underway. The project will
employ around 400 people and is expected to achieve sales of
Rs 1 billion by the end of the decade.

(C.T. Mahabharat/19930405)


(NEWS)(BUSINESS)(TYO)(00004)

Subaru Links With Specular On 3-D Software 04/07/93
TOKYO, JAPAN, 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Tokyo-based language
translation firm Subaru International has signed a deal with
Specular of Massachusetts in the US. The agreement calls for
Subaru to acquire 20 percent of Specular's equity and obtain
a license to sell Specular's three-dimensional graphics
programs.

Subaru International and Specular have already reached an
agreement for the business tie up, and they are preparing
to transfer Specular's part of equity to Subaru. The purchase
is $500,000, which is about 20 percent of Specular's total
capitalization.

Also, Subaru International has acquired the exclusive rights
to produce Japanese language versions of Specular's program
called Infini-D, in addition to exclusive sales rights in Japan.
Infini-D is Specular's three-dimensional graphic program, and
it has powerful modeling, lettering, and animation features.

These firms have already been developing Japanese
language versions of the program. There are two versions at
present - Infini-D version 1.0.9 and version 2.0. They will be
released around the end of April at the retail price of
128,000 yen ($1,100) each.

These programs will operate on Apple's Macintosh. In this
deal, Subaru International wants to expand its multimedia
and desktop publishing businesses. The firm aims to sell the
programs to the educational market and corporate users.

(Masayuki "Massey" Miyazawa/19930406/Press Contact:
Subaru International, [phone], Fax, c/o
International PR, [phone])


(NEWS)(IBM)(DEN)(00005)

Gazelle Ships Programs For Computer Novices 04/07/93
PROVO, UTAH, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Gazelle Systems says
it is now shipping three programs that will make it easier for the
beginning to intermediate computer user to manage, organize, and
protect their computer files.

The menu-driven programs being introduced include Q-DOS Easy,
Back-It Easy, and Back-It Easy for Windows, and are scaled down
versions of Gazelle's Q-DOS and Back-It. Gazelle first introduced
its Q-DOS program in 1985. Each program has a suggested retail
price of $49.

Q-DOS Easy allows users to unerase, copy, rename, move, delete, and
otherwise manipulate files. Users select the desired function from a
menu. The program also displays file names, including more than one
volume, via the program's split screen. Back-It Easy, which operates
in a similar manner, is a backup utility that can backup as much as
10 megabytes (MB) of files per minute, working in the background
while the user performs other tasks. The program can also compress
files in order to save space on the backup medium. The company says
Back-It can save from 25 to 60 percent of the space on the backup
medium. Back-It Easy for Windows performs the same functions for
Windows users as Back-It does for DOS systems.

"Our Easy programs are designed specifically for computer novices.
Q-DOS Easy actually teaches you about DOS and how to organize your
hard disk," says Gazelle Marketing Director Mark Child. Child says
not all computer users use their machines for the same purpose, and
not all users have the same level of experience and understanding.
He says Gazelle released the new products so that every user can
manage his or her system in the most efficient manner possible.

System requirements for the Easy line of products are a
IBM-compatible PC, DOS 3.0 or higher, and a minimum 340
kilobytes (KB) of system memory. A mass storage device, such as
a hard disk, Bernoulli disk, removable cartridge, or network
storage device is required for both backup products. Windows 3.0
or later is required for Back-It Easy for Windows.

(Jim Mallory/19930406/Press contact: Mark Child, Gazelle
Systems; Press and Reader numbers: Gazelle Systems,
801-377-1288, 800-786-3278, fax [phone])


(NEWS)(IBM)(BOS)(00006)

Full-Color Portrait Monitor For PCs 04/07/93
FREMONT, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Portrait
Display Labs has introduced a full-color portrait monitor for
PCs. Portrait/15 Plus combines portrait (vertical) view with
landscape (horizontal) view. The user physically rotates the
monitor from portrait to landscape mode, while software
re-maps the screen display to match the new orientation.

Portrait view is preferable to landscape view for word processing
and desktop applications, officials maintained in announcing the
monitor. In portrait view, the user can display and work with a
full 8.5-inch by 11-inch document without reducing the image to
fit a horizontal screen.

The top, middle, and bottom of the document can be seen in a
glance, eliminating the need for continuous up-and-down
scrolling.

Portrait/15 Plus is ideally suited to Microsoft Windows
applications, according to the company. Optimized for 800-by-600
and 1024-by-768 resolution at non-interlaced refresh rates above
70 hertz (Hz), the monitor provides .28 mm dot pitch and a
super-fine coat etch anti-glare screen.

The display works with all onboard video cards and graphics
accelerators geared to Windows, include products based on chips
from Tseng Labs, S-3, Radius SVGA, ATI, Video Seven, and XGA II.

Portrait/15 Plus meets Sweden's MPR II standard for reduced
electronic and magnetic emissions. Other capabilities include
swivel and tilt for ergonomic viewing, and full controls for
vertical and horizontal image sizing, brightness and contrast.

Portrait/15 Plus is scheduled to ship in May direct from the
company. The monitor will be priced at $799, plus shipping and
handling.

(Jacqueline Emigh/19930406/Reader contact: Portrait Display
Labs, 800-858-7744; Press Contacts:  Bruce E. Cummings,
Portrait Display Labs, 510-249-0441; Holland Carney,
Alexander Communications for Portrait Display Labs,
415-923-1660)


(NEWS)(IBM)(LAX)(00007)

Verisoft/Stac Compression Products Versus MS-DOS 6.0 04/07/93
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Both
Verisoft and Stac Electronics have announced new versions of
their hard disk compression software to compete with
Microsoft's Doublespace disk compression bundled with the
newly-released MS-DOS 6.0.

Verisoft has the advantage of having licensed the compression
technology used in MS-DOS 6.0 to Microsoft. However, Verisoft
says its new version of Doubledisk Gold is faster, offers
20 percent more compression, easier installation, and a
more intuitive "feel." Verisoft maintains that its product
outperforms its competitors products Stacker and Superstor
Pro, can support larger drives than Stacker, and is significantly
lower priced than both products. Retail price is $99.95, but the
company says the street price is as low as $39.95.

Stac Electronics has announced Stacker 3.1 for Windows and
DOS. Stac says its product has the advantage of being fully-
compatible with all versions of MS-DOS, unlike Doublespace,
which only works with MS-DOS 6.0. Stac also claims Stacker 3.1
can replace Doublespace in the operating system and can become
as integral a part of MS-DOS 6.0 as Doublespace.

Stacker 3.1 will be available in about three months, after Stac
completes its testing and verification of Stacker with MS-DOS
6.0, the company said. Retail price is $149, but Stacker 3.0 users
can upgrade for $19.95 plus shipping and handling directly from
Stac, the company added.

Stac filed suit against Microsoft before the release of MS-DOS
6.0, claiming Microsoft's Doublespace was in violation of its
patents. Stac, however, has not filed suit against Verisoft,
from whom Microsoft licensed the compression technology.
Microsoft did remove Maxcompress, a portion of DOS 6.0's data
compression code in response to Stac's lawsuit. Microsoft has
also filed a counter suit against Stac charging infringement of
a Microsoft patent, breach of contract, and for civil conspiracy
to commit fraud.

(Linda Rohrbough/19930406/Press Contact: Chuck Runquist,
Verisoft, 908-303-8627; Joanne Rush, Stac Electronics, tel
619-431-7474, fax [phone]; Collins Hemmingway,
Microsoft, 206-882-8080)


(NEWS)(IBM)(LAX)(00008)

Multimedia Pack Intros Users To Multimedia PCs 04/07/93
REDMOND, WASHINGTON, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Microsoft has
announced a set of utilities it claims enhances the Windows 3.1
graphical user environment, called the Multimedia Pack for
Windows.

The new product is designed to introduce users with multimedia
personal computers (PCs) to what can be done with their
machines. It is available through retail channels and from
original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

The Multimedia Pack comes in CD-ROM format and includes
the Hyper Guide 2.0, a Multimedia Tour, Vidtest diagnostic
utilities, an enhanced audio facility for Windows, the Video
for Windows runtime for playback of video clips, and a
collection of pre-recorded media clips for playback.

The Hyper Guide 2.0 is described as an interactive on-line
user guide with thousands of hyperlinked topics and narrated
animations to explain the Windows operating system.
Interactive narrated animations and audio are used to explain
what the features of a multimedia PC are, and to discuss
performance issues associated with the components of a
multimedia PC, including video, CD-ROM, and sound.

VidTest will tell a user how well digital video will play back
on the PC on which it runs and can offer assistance in getting
the best video performance possible, Microsoft said. The
enhanced audio facility compresses the sound or waveform
audio files so users can get more sound files in the same space.
Video for Windows Runtime allows users to play back digital
video clips.

In addition, over 300 sound, animation, and video clips are
included which Microsoft says can be immediately used in
business presentations, documents, or spreadsheets.

(Linda Rohrbough/19930406/Press Contact: Kim Wolfkill,
Wagoner Edstrom for Microsoft, tel [phone],
fax [phone]; Public Contact: 800-426-9400)


(NEWS)(APPLE)(WAS)(00009)

MacTV Schedule For April 12-30, 1993 04/07/93
MARLOW, NEW HAMPSHIRE, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- MacTV, the
daily one hour satellite computer product news program broadcast
on Galaxy 6, Channel 22 starting at 8 am Eastern time. Some
shows are also broadcast on the Mind Extension University cable
channel. Previously broadcast programs are available at $9.95
plus $3 shipping.

Week of April 12-16, 1993:

Monday, April 12, 1993: Test Drive, a one-of-a-kind demo product;
RapidTrak 1.0, how SCSI (Small Computer Systems Interface)
peripherals can give you better performance; Anti-Virus, software
to detect, protect against, and remove viruses; SAM 3.5, how to
keep your system safe from viruses; Redux 1.63, for effortless,
error-free backups; FolderBolt, gives desktop security to your
Macintosh.

Tuesday, April 13, 1993: 3 in Three, allows No. 3 to go back to
its original format; Miracle Piano, an intensive report on this
software's Recording Studio portion; Millie's Math House, a good
way for the kids to learn some math via this educational program;
BattleChess/CD-ROM, a chess game and tutorial with animation;
Expert Astronomer, lets you look at space from anywhere in the
galaxy; Pax Imperia, simulates a galactic empire which you can
rule.

Wednesday, April 14, 1993: Action!, how to create interactive
audio presentations with motion included; Persuasion 2.1, how to
create top-quality, professional presentations; VideoShop:
Business, another way for you to edit QuickTime movies; Meeting
Maker, how to do precise schedules for groups; Claris Resolve
1.1, shows how to add presentations and/or automation to a
spreadsheet; Works 3.0: Charting, lets you graph numbers inside a
spreadsheet.

Thursday, April 15, 1993: ACT!, permits management of activities
and contacts; Desktop Dialer, lets you dial a telephone from
anywhere in any application; M.Y.O.B., an excellent accounting
package for small businesses; Premiere 2.0, how to create and re-
create QuickTime movies; VideoVision, multimedia software with a
24-bit board.

Friday, April 16, 1993: In Control, a new version of a list
manager; TouchBASE 2.0, how to stay in touch with business and/or
personal contacts; Timeslips III, software that helps with your
billing and time; Start Up Folder Items, power up your Macintosh
and add these items; QuickMail 2.6, a quick overall report on
this total e-mail solution; Word 5.1: Lists/Bullets, more on an
intensive report on this software package.

MacTV Schedule for Week of April 19-23, 1993:

Monday, April 19, 1993: EtherNet Tutorial, a report on Ethernet
and how it can help you; Hub Overview, a program that is
intelligent (or not), plus software; Instant Update, how to
create actual documents that a workgroup can edit; Timbuktu 5.0,
helps with collaborating/connectivity on a cross-platform;
System 7: Editions, helps with the Publish & Subscribe tools;
FileMaker Pro 2.0, how to get the maximum performance.

Tuesday, April 20, 1993: MacDraw Pro, all-in-one tools for
illustrating, plus performance; Expert Home Design, lets you
design anything you want, from a tiny closet to an entire house;
FolderBolt/NightWatch II, another system offering hard drive
security; INITPicker 3.0, prevents INIT problems before they
start; Norton Utilities, a Macintosh application that should be
on your most-wanted list.

Wednesday, April 21, 1993: Ultimate Payroll, software that
handles even the most complicated payrolls; BESTBOOKS,
bookkeeping the old-fashioned way, on the Macintosh; Quicken 3.0:
Overview, one of the fastest ways to keep your finances in order;
WealthBuilder 2.0, a program to increase your wealth; Lotus 1-2-3
1.1, lets you find out how much to pay on your mortgage.

Thursday, April 22, 1993: System 7.1: Sys Folder, an in-depth
look at System 7.1; File Force, the Macintosh gets another
relational database; DateBook, date, project, and time management
software; HAM 1.0, the Macintosh gets a Hierarchical Apple Menu;
MacProject Pro 1.0, easy-to-use project management software.

Friday, April 23, 1993: PowerBook Duo 230, an explanation of this
extraordinary new Macintosh; PowerLink Presentor, software for
the PowerBook Duos; LetterPerfect, an inexpensive, reliable, and
uncomplicated word processor; PBTools, how to get power into the
PowerBook; MacLuggage: PowerBooks, secures your computer while
you travel; Word 5.1: Tables, how to use the table feature.

MacTV Schedule for Week of April 26-30, 1993:

Monday, April 26, 1993: Fonts, jazz up your documents with style;
Stylewriter II Printer, a review of the newest inkjet printer
from Apple; Write Now 3.0, helps you learn about style sheets;
Word 5.1: Mail Merge, tips on the use of Mail Merge; FileMaker
Pro 2.0, how to get the most out of this feature; PageMaker 5.0,
more about this top desktop publishing software.

Tuesday, April 27, 1993: Maintenance Hardware, how to give your
hardware a longer life; MacLuggage, put your little Macintosh or
LC in these carrying cases; Hard Shell Cases, lightweight, rugged
computer cases; Out of this World, future frolics with marvelous
adventures; Turbo 040, low-cost substitute for the Quadra; Turbo
Mouse 4.0, a top-rated trackball.

Wednesday, April 28, 1993: Customizing Your Mac, how to customize
your fonts with this utility; Wallpaper, permits desktop patterns
to be created, edited, and saved; After Dark & MAD, screen savers
made customizable, fascinating, and fun; DiskTop, one of the very
first finder utilities; SafeDeposit, how to make backups simple;
File Duo, how to back up your most important files.

Thursday, April 29, 1993: Hard Drives: Backing Up, the whys and
hows of backups; Redux 1.63, easy, error-free backups; SyQuest
Removable, a leading, dependable storage system; RapidTrak 1.0,
how to make your SCSI peripherals work better; myDiskLabeler III,
design your disk labels in the way you want; TrashGuard, the best
way for trash can management; NightWatch II, excellent and easy
Macintosh security.

Friday, April 30, 1993: Photoshop 2.01: Alpha, how to use Alpha
channels to your best advantage; Charger, a report on this
excellent accelerator; Authorware Professional, a tool to help
with interactive learning; VideoShop: Overview, a QuickTime movie
editor, and more; Rocket & RocketShare, combination software to
make the Macintosh work faster.

(John McCormick/19930407/Press Contact: Wayne Mohr, Executive
Producer PCTV and MacTV, 603-863-9322)


(NEWS)(BUSINESS)(TYO)(00010)

NEC Links With Korean Firm On Game Machine 04/07/93
TOKYO, JAPAN, 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- NEC Home Electronics has
signed an agreement with Korea's major conglomerate Hette Seika
involving the production and sale of NEC Home Electronics'
best-selling game machine in Korea.

The agreement between NEC Home Electronics and Hette Seika
calls for NEC to provide a manufacturing license and the
technology to produce its eight-bit TV game machine, the PC
Engine. Hette Seika will add its original design to the system.

Hette Seika will also market the game machine in Korea under a
new name - the Bystar. The retail price of the system will be
28,000 yen ($240). The release of the machine is expected to be
around the end of April. Hette Seika hopes to ship about 100,000
units in the initial year of production.

Under the agreement, Hette Seika will also release NEC's
CD-ROM-based game machine around this fall. It is called the
PC Engine Duo, and is also gaining popularity in the Japanese
market.

Hette Seika's game machines will directly compete with
Nintendo's best-selling game machine, the Super-Famicom in
Korea. Nintendo has already been selling the machine in Korean
market. NEC Home Electronics has been suffering from the slump
in the home electronics industry recently. As a result, the firm
wants to become involved more in the game device market.

(Masayuki "Massey" Miyazawa/19930407/Press Contact: NEC
Home Electronics, [phone], Fax, [phone])


(NEWS)(TELECOM)(MOW)(00011)

Moscow - Ericsson, MCC To Extend Cellular Service 04/07/93
MOSCOW, RUSSIA, 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Moscow Cellular
Communications (MCC) has signed an agreement to "improve" one
of two cellular services in Moscow.

The agreement reportedly calls for the upgrade of the network to
the NMT-450 improved standards, while at the same time
keeping compatibility with customers' existing equipment. No
plans to shift to the newer 900 megahertz (MHz) band have been
announced.

Representatives of MCC declined to provide any further details
of the deal, including financial arrangements, citing commercial
secrets as a reason. Terms of the agreement and the date of
the possible upgrade also remained undisclosed.

MCC is a company owned jointly by: MGTS, Moscow's local
telephone administration; GPMMT, Moscow's long distance
administration; the Radio Design Institute; US West
International BV; Millicom International Cellular; and the
MNTK Eye Microsurgery Institute. It is considered a part
of the empire of Sviatoslav Fedorov, an entrepreneur and
owner of a variety of diversified businesses in Moscow.

MCC is one of two currently active competitors in the Moscow
city cellular market. Another - AMT - is owned and operated
by a subsidiary of the Finnish Nokia company. Another service
provider, called Euronet, is likely to start offering its 900MHz
services late this year.

(Kirill Tchashchin & Eugene Peskin/19930407/Press Contact:
MCC, phone [phone])


(NEWS)(TELECOM)(MOW)(00012)

Russian-Canadian Space Comms System Announced 04/07/93
MOSCOW, RUSSIA, 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- The Russian-Canadian
project to launch the geostationary space communication system,
SovCanStar, has been approved by the Russian authorities.

The SovCanStar system is intended to carry out phone, telegraph,
television, and data communications in the territories of Russia,
Europe, and North America, according to the published report.

Its work is to be started in 1996, following the launching of the
first satellite by the Proton carrier rocket. The manufacturing
of the three satellites necessary for the project is being
undertaken by NPO Prikladnaya Meknanika, the leading
manufacturer of space satellites for both civil and military
applications in the former Soviet Union.

According to the Business World Weekly, the Canadian side will
deliver electronic equipment and finance the whole project. It
is reportedly valued about US$100.000.

A pilot satellite with Canadian equipment on board is now
being tested in Krasnoyarsk, according to the report.

(Kirill Tchashchin & Eugene Peskin/19930407)


(NEWS)(BUSINESS)(DEL)(00013)

India - Tata Elxsi Offers Corporate Training Services 04/07/93
BANGALORE, INDIA, 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Tata Elxsi India Ltd.,
(TEIL), is diversifying into corporate training. The company will
initially offer customized courses and seminars in areas such
as graphics, multimedia, computer-aided software engineering
(CASE) tools and artificial intelligence.

According to Amarnath Rao, manager of educational services for
TEIL, the focus is on graphics. The training programs will
primarily address users of RISC platforms, specifically Silicon
Graphics workstation users.

At present, TEIL has a single training center in Bangalore. "We
will have centers in the (metropolitan areas) within the next six
to eight months," said Rao. Plans also call for the opening of
training centers in China and Singapore. "This is in view of the
kind of potential that exists for corporate training in the ASEAN
region," said Rao.

TEIL is negotiating with Silicon Graphics in order to set up the
latter's authorized training centers in the ASEAN region. TEIL's
training business is projected to grow to Rs 50 million by the
end of the third year of its operations, out of which exports will
account for Rs 1 million.

(C.T. Mahabharat/19930405)


(NEWS)(GOVT)(DEL)(00014)

India - Govt Keen On VLSI R&D International Tie-ups 04/07/93
NEW DELHI, INDIA, 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Very large-scale integration
(VLSI) circuit design activity is expected to get a boost in India,
because the government's Department of Electronics (DoE) is keen
on entering into alliances with leading research institutions abroad.

The DoE has taken several initiatives in this regard. Research and
development projects covering ASICs (application specific
integrated circuits), related software development, and manpower
training have been initiated at the Indian Institutes of Technology
(IITs), the country's premier engineering institutes. They are
located in Bombay, Delhi, Madras, Kharagpur, and the Indian Institute
of Science, Bangalore. A nodal center for VLSI design and prototyping
is also being set up with financial support from the United Nations
Development Program (UNDP).

Texas Instruments in Bangalore, is understood to have expanded its
VLSI design operations significantly. SGS-Thomson has also set up
a 100 percent export-oriented unit for ASIC in New Delhi. DCM is
also keen on VLSI design. More such operations are expected in the
future, especially under the framework of the electronics hardware
technology park (EHTP).

Meanwhile, Bangalore-based ARCUS Technology Private Ltd., a 100
percent subsidiary of Arcus Technology of the US, is awaiting
clearance from the DoE to set up the country's first private sector
foundry for manufacturing VLSI chips. The foundry will be located
in Bangalore. The cost of the project is estimated at $60 million
and will be financed by the parent company as well as financial
institutions.

(C.T. Mahabharat/19930405)


(NEWS)(TELECOM)(ATL)(00015)

International Telecom Update 04/07/93
ATLANTA, GEORGIA, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Europe is in the
telecommunications spotlight this week, with major European
firms winning big contracts and moves to privatize European
networks accelerating.

Among the new contracts signed is Siemens' $300 million order
from Syria, which will add 700,000 lines to the network there
over the next two years, using loans from Kuwait. A major new
exchange is already being used there. Siemens is also looking to
China for new business. Before AT&T was allowed into the market
earlier this year, Siemens was one of the companies said to have
an advantageous position there.

Siemens is on the buying side of a deal with Moscom of the US
for voice activated response systems, to be sold in Germany under
Siemens' name. The systems, to be delivered starting this summer,
will work with rotary phones, and enable callers to select
extensions, departments or subjects by spoken commands to a
switch rather than an operator. Moscom has in the past sold call
accounting products to Siemens. The product was shown at the
Siemens during the recent CeBit fair.

Attention is also turning in Europe toward the privatization of
networks. Germany's DBT network is the headliner here, but there
are many other, smaller opportunities on the table. Hungary has
launched the process of selling its Hungarian Telecommunications
Co., known as Matav, with NM Rothschild and Salomon Brothers as
investment advisors. France Telecom has already expressed
interest, as speculation builds the new conservative government
there may seek its privatization.

Credit Suisse, meanwhile, said it will sell 14 percent of the
Greek telephone network, known as OTE. As in Hungary, a major
international operator is being sought to take a major stake
and operate the company after the sale, with 13 groups in the
bidding. Italy may finally move toward privatization, now that
all of its telecom activities have been consolidated under a
single firm. The government there hopes to make its investment
in the Stet holding company a minority stake sometime after
the middle of the year. Telecom shares rose on Italy's stock
exchanges after the deal was done.

Despite all the action, US companies could get shut-out if the
present trade friction between the US and EC continues to
escalate. Washington has threatened to ban European firms from
bids on telecom contracts by April 19 unless European
preferences in the same area are removed. So far, neither side is
backing down. British Telecom could be a major beneficiary - it
already has a five year contract to improve air traffic
management systems using its global network services, and its
Syncordia unit claims it will soon announce other contract wins.
Eutelsat, the continent's satellite operator, is also reporting
big business, with Russia and Eastern Europe leading the way in
increased service demand.

The American aces in this worldwide competition remain Latin
America and existing investments in networks, thanks to the
1984 Bell break-up which led to a buying spree by regional Bell
holding companies. Brazil is the big prize, not only from a
contract, but a privatization standpoint as well. The Telebras unit
in the single state of Bahai recently signed a $3.6 million contract
for small satellite terminals, with a small US company called
Satellite Technology Management. The government of President
Itamar Franco also said foreign companies will soon be able to
buy all of a Brazilian firm under new legislation, with the
exception of Telebras.

(Dana Blankenhorn/19930407/Press Contact: Satellite Technology
Management Emil Youssefzadeh, 714/557-2400; Moscom, Robert L.
Boxer, 716/383-6803)


(NEWS)(TELECOM)(ATL)(00016)

Laptop Communications Technology Update 04/07/93
CALABASAS, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Xircom
has launched a new series of Pocket LAN (local area network)
adapters. Also, Computer Peripherals has introduced new
laptop fax-data modems.

The new Xircom Pocket Ethernet Adapter III features a Phantom
Power Cable, which links to the PC's mouse or keyboard port,
eliminating the need to plug the adapter into an external power
supply. It is also smaller than before, and supports all major
network operating systems. Versions are available for 10Base-T,
10Base-2 and for both systems. The smaller size is to let the
adapter fit between the connectors on newer notebooks computers.

Network support is through preconfigured device drivers for
Novell NetWare, Microsoft Windows for Workgroups and LAN
Manager, IBM LAN Server and PC LAN, Artisoft LANtastic, Banyan
Vines, Sun PC-NFS, DEC Pathworks, and others. The new products
also feature Xircom's "tractor grip," a grooved system of gears on
the outside of the unit which allows the screws to be connected or
disconnected without a screwdriver. The suggested retail price
for either the 10Base-T or 10Base-2 model is $349. The
combination adapter that support both media is listed at $399.

Computer Peripherals launched a new version of its ViVa data-fax
modem, this one running at speeds up to 14,400 bits-per-second.
Like other new products in this area, the top speed is achieved with
both data and fax transmissions - it comes to six blank pages per
minute - when connected to a unit having a similar maximum data
rate. The new ViVa costs $429 and is powered by either a nine-volt
battery or a wall-mount transformer. It supports MNP 5 data
compression, but not the new MNP 10 scheme of Microcom, which is
geared for use in a cellular environment. Like other products of
its type, it comes with both fax and data software.

(Dana Blankenhorn/19930407/Press Contact: Deb Cromer, Xircom,
415-354-8800; Customer Contact: 26025 Mureau Rd., Calabasas,
CA 91302, 818-878-7600, 800-874-7875; FAX [phone];
Computer Peripherals, Brian Colvin, 800-854-7600; Customer
Contact: 667 Rancho Conejo Blvd., Newbury Park, CA 9132,
805-499-5751, fax: [phone])


(NEWS)(TELECOM)(ATL)(00017)

MCI, Stentor Launch VNet Service 04/07/93
TORONTO, CANADA, 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- MCI and Stentor have
launched service in their controversial alliance with a version
of MCI's VNet service going seamlessly between both countries.
Stentor believes big clients will save 50 percent on their long
distance charges with the new service.

The alliance is controversial because AT&T charged that MCI
was re-selling AT&T-patented technology to Stentor when the
 alliance was announced last fall. That dispute is now in court,
but AT&T has also responded in the marketplace through an
alliance with Stentor's arch-rival, Unitel.

Stentor said Shell Canada is the first Canadian company to use
this service under a current market trial, while Domtar and
Weyerhaeuser Canada will use the service soon. More than 15
national customers have indicated they will subscribe to
Advantage VNet upon receipt of regulatory approval for commercial
introduction, Stentor said. Stentor is an alliance among nine
Canadian phone companies, headed by Bell Canada. As part of the
roll-out, Rates will be similar to the group's Advantage plan,
based on volume discounts and flat tariffs by zones. Stentor has
renamed its virtual network product Advantage VNet, from VCN,
giving it the same basic name as MCI's offering.

Stentor's nine partners are BC Tel; AGT Limited; SaskTel;
Manitoba Telephone System; Bell Canada; NB Tel; Maritime
Telephone & Telegraph; Island Tel, and Newfoundland Telephone.
At a press conference, MCI Chairman Bert Roberts said the
September alliance could extend into the area of local services,
but nothing has been decided yet. MCI is not part of the local
telephone market in the US.

(Dana Blankenhorn/19930407/Press Contact: Joanne Staley,
Stento, 613-781-3301; Pam Small, MCI, 202-887-3000)


(NEWS)(TELECOM)(ATL)(00018)

TCI Confirms Network Upgrade 04/07/93
DENVER, COLORADO, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Tele-
Communications Inc., (TCI), the nation's largest cable television
operator, confirmed it will announce plans to replace its present
coaxial cable-based infrastructure with fiber at an April 12
news conference. The switch should take just four years.

The national media will be called to Washington, New York and
Los Angeles to hear detailed plans on rebuilding the plant, from a
Denver site, said spokesman Lela Cocoros. The announcement
comes just one week after the Federal Communications
Commission re-regulated the cable industry, limiting what they
can charge for programming now and in the future.

While its prices for standard cable services will be limited,
there is nothing to stop TCI or other cable companies from
offering other services, including data service. TCI President
John Malone is expected to focus on his network upgrade plan
as an integral part of the "data superhighway" envisioned by
President Clinton and Vice President Gore. TCI's name for this is
"the infostructure network." Financial analysts have been told
that the company will increase its capital budgets from $525
million to $750 million, starting this year.

The area around Washington, DC, figures to become the first
high-tech battleground. Southwestern Bell has already bought
cable systems in the area, while Bell Atlantic has said it plans
to transmit TV-pictures on its phone network there. TCI owns
District Cablevision, which serves the District of Columbia and
is one of the 300 TCI networks which will be upgraded with fiber.

Fiber will also be extended into the downtown area, which is not
served now by the company, company officials say, offering "video
on demand" services and as many as 500 channels of TV service.
Most speculation about services has centered on its possible
impact on Blockbuster Entertainment, the nation's largest video
rental chain. However, so far Blockbuster has forestalled
competition from pay-per-view services by forcing back the
"windows" through which such services can be offered, giving its
outlets weeks of exclusivity.

For accessing all these services, TCI is reportedly working with
Intel and Microsoft on a new set-top converter to be delivered by
General Instruments, a regular TCI supplier, based on the Intel
386 chip and Microsoft Windows.

TCI spokesmen would not confirm that report, adding it is not
part of the April 12 agenda, but Cocoros confirmed that Malone
discussed just such a plan at an industry conference in San Jose
recently. He said at that time such a device could cost as little
as $350, produced in quantity, and lease rates would add little to
a typical consumer's cable bill.

Intel has confirmed that it is working on such a "smart" cable
box. More important, it would add fast data services and the
possibilities of connecting to wireless telephone networks in
the local area, putting TCI into direct competition with local
phone companies.

TCI spokesmen also declined to comment on continued speculation
that it and Time-Warner, the second largest cable operator, will
soon move to divide Turner Broadcasting System between
themselves. Reports form Atlanta indicate that Ted Turner, who
holds most of the voting stock, is anxious to raise more cash for
his other investments and charitable work, and has been
frustrated by TCI and Time-Warner in his attempts to sell large
blocks of stock to other companies, like Paramount.

(Dana Blankenhorn/19930407/Press Contact: Lela Cocoros, TCI,
303-267-5273)


(NEWS)(GENERAL)(DEN)(00019)

Microsoft Ships COBOL 5.0 04/07/93
REDMOND, WASHINGTON, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Microsoft
has announced that it is now shipping version 5.0 of Microsoft
COBOL (Common Business Oriented Language), the software
language frequently used by programmers who write business
applications.

Microsoft says the new version works with Microsoft Windows,
can run MS-DOS executable files in extended memory, supports
character-based windows, and has added a wider range of
debugging options. Microsoft's Visual Basic for Windows and
embedded structure query language (ESQL) are also supported.

According to Jim McCarthy, Microsoft director of marketing and
user education for the development tools group, COBOL 5.0
makes it easier for corporations to downsize their mainframe
COBOL applications to Windows "and to choose the migration path
that works for them."

The company says of the several techniques offered for creating
Windows-based applications, that the quickest, easiest way,
whether working with existing code or writing new, is to compile
the application using the QuickWin libraries. That program can
then run without having to make any special Windows calls. With
COBOL 5.0, QuickWin applications can also call dynamic link
libraries (DLLs).

COBOL 5.0 comes with a Programmer's Workbench which Microsoft
says simplifies the task of creating both QuickWin applications
and DLLs. Using Visual Basic, developers can create the user interface
in that language and call the COBOL programs from within Visual Basic.
The accompanying documentation includes a sample application that
shows how to interface Visual Basic and COBOL.

Windows support for COBOL 5.0 is provided via a shared run-time
system that can be shared by several COBOL programs. Microsoft
says that will result in smaller executable files, and the COBOL
compiler itself uses the shared run-time system, allowing it and
the debugger to run in Windows.

(Jim Mallory/19930407/Press contact: Martin Middlewood,
Waggener Edstrom for Microsoft, 503-245-0905; Reader
contact: Microsoft, 800-426-9400)


(NEWS)(IBM)(DEN)(00020)

MIcrosoft Ships New FoxPro Developer Kits 04/07/93
REDMOND, WASHINGTON, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Microsoft
has announced three new developer kits for its FoxPro database
management system. The new tools include distribution kits
for Windows and DOS, and a Library Construction Kit.

David Fulton, Microsoft VP of the database and development tools
division, says the new kits will allow developers and corporate
users to build and distribute FoxPro applications quickly and
easily, compiling applications for Windows and DOS-based PCs and
distributing them royalty-free. A setup disk for Windows can be
built quickly using Microsoft's FoxPro SetupWizard. Wizards are
tools Microsoft has incorporated into several of its programs, and
lead users through the steps of a procedure.

The company says the distribution kits also include a Help compiler
for Windows which allows the developer to create customized
on-line help files for their applications. There is also an on-line
version of the Windows interface design guide that aids users in
designing applications for Windows according to standard
guidelines. A run-time version of Microsoft Graph is also included
that lets users include graphs in their distributed applications.

(Jim Mallory/19930407/Press contact: Julie Briselden, Microsoft,
206-882-8080; Reader contact: Microsoft, 800-426-9400)


(NEWS)(IBM)(DEN)(00021)

Microsoft Ships Network Mail 3.2, Message Transfer Agent 04/07/93
REDMOND, WASHINGTON, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Microsoft
is now shipping Microsoft Mail version 3.2 for PC Networks.

The upgrade includes support for Novell Netware bindery and LAN
Manager, X.25 network support, and the ability to move users from
one post office to another, either individually or in groups. The
company says release 3.2 also has broader connectivity with, and
easier integration into, existing environments.

Mail 3.2 includes automatic user account creation from existing
network directories, including the Novel Netware bindery, a feature
that should make it easier to install the program in existing
networks. The Extract utility reads names from the Netware bindery
and creates a file that Mail then uses to create the mail account.
Earlier versions required user addresses to be created manually, a
major task for network administrators overseeing networks with
hundreds of users. Users can be moved from one post office to
another using a drag-and-drop technique.

Mail 3.2 now supports X.25 networks, a feature that will benefit
users who have their own X.25 networks, and countries which have
public X.25 networks connected to international packet switch
services.

The company says it is also shipping Microsoft Mail Multitasking
Message Transfer Agent (MMTA), which includes modem pooling,
X.25 wide area networking (WAN) support, and a reduction in the
amount of routing hardware required.

(Jim Mallory/19930407/Press contact: Marty Taucher, Microsoft,
206-882-8080; Reader contact: 800-426-9400)


(NEWS)(IBM)(DEN)(00022)

Lotus Notes Gets Upgraded Document Imaging 04/07/93
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Attendees at the AIIM
Show and Conference being held in Chicago this week are getting a
look at what Lotus Development describes as "a significantly
enhanced version" of Lotus Notes: Document Imaging, also known as
LN:DI.

LN:DI Release 2, which is still in beta testing, is a companion
product to Lotus Notes, and adds support for color and grayscale
document images and also allows the user to scan, view, and print
color images. Object linking and embedding (OLE) is also supported,
as is Kodak's Photo CD, the film maker's technology for storing
photographs on a CD disk, then viewing and editing the images on a
personal computer. The company says LN:DI is compatible with Lotus
Notes Release 2.1 as well as the upcoming Notes Release 3, and
supports OS/2 version 1.3 and OS/2 2.0 servers, as well as Windows
3.0 and 3.1 clients. Users of Notes Release 3 will be able to launch
LN:DI by clicking on the LN:DI icon.

LN:DI was developed jointly by Lotus and Imagery Software, an
Eastman Kodak subsidiary, to provide image capture, manipulation,
storage, and display support for Lotus Notes. The company says
workgroups of all sizes, including remote users, can access and
share scanned images across local or wide area networks (LANs
or WANs).

The color and grayscale support in LN:DI allows Notes users to scan,
display, and print 24-, 8-, and 4-bit color images, while the OLE
support provides document image linking using standard Windows
commands. The company says the new version also provides tighter
integration with Notes facilities like security, access control, and
contextual image viewing and manipulation.

LN:DI 2.0 also works with the Lotus Notes optical character
recognition (OCR) server licensed from Calera Recognition Systems,
and Lotus Notes Outbound and In-bound Fax Gateways developed with
GammaLink. Lotus says Imaging is the first in a series of add-on
products it is developing with other companies to extend the
capabilities of Lotus Notes. Lotus spokesperson Meryl Franzman
told Newsbytes pricing and a ship date have not been determined.

(Jim Mallory/19930407/Press contact: Meryl Franzman, McGlinchey
& Paul for Lotus Development Corp., 617-862-4514)


(NEWS)(IBM)(TOR)(00023)

 ****IBM Adds To ValuePoint PC Line 04/07/93
SOMERS, NEW YORK, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Continuing a flurry
of product announcements that has been going on since the
creation of the IBM Personal Computer Company last fall, IBM
has added 40 new models to its PS/ValuePoint line of personal
computers.

The new models are based on four versions of the Intel 486
processor, come in three cabinet sizes, and offer various memory
and hard-disk options. They range from a low-profile "SpaceSaver"
model with a 25 megahertz (MHz) 486SX chip, a 120 megabyte (MB)
hard disk and four MB of memory for $1,549, up to a mini-tower
system containing a 66 MHz 466DX2 processor, a 527MB
hard drive, and eight MB of memory at a price of $3,579.

Models without hard disks, intended for use on local area
networks, will also be available, the company said.

The new models do not replace existing ValuePoint machines,
which have been selling well, according to IBM spokeswoman
Liz Arends.

The new ValuePoints come in three shapes. The SpaceSaver
models have three Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) expansion
slots, plus one which complies with the Video Electronics
Standards Association (VESA) local-bus specification for video
cards, and three bays for storage devices, with a 100-watt power
supply. These are available with 486SX chips running at 25 or 33
MHz, or with a 33MHz 486DX processor.

The ValuePoint Desktop units come with five ISA slots, one
VESA slot, five drive bays, and a 200-watt power supply. These
machines are offered with the same processors as the
SpaceSaver line, plus the 66MHz 486DX2 chip.

The MiniTower units, which have eight ISA slots and one VESA
slot, six drive bays, and a 200-watt power supply, are available
with 33MHz 486DX or 66MHz 486DX2 processors.

All models come with either four or eight MB of memory,
IBM said. Those with four MB are shipped with the DOS
operating system (version 5.02, not the just-announced DOS 6.0)
and Microsoft Windows, while those with eight MB ship with
IBM's own OS/2 operating system.

IBM also added new service and support options for the ValuePoint
line. The PS/ValuePoint Customer Protection Plan lets customers
choose the length of time for extended service and support, which
components are covered, and what response time they need
guaranteed.

Most of the new models are already shipping, Arends said. The
diskless units will be available late in May, and the MiniTower
machines are due for shipment in June.

IBM also announced the 6317 monitor, a multiscanning color
display that gives resolution of 1,024 by 1,024 points.

(Grant Buckler/19930407/Press Contact: Liz Arends, IBM,
914-766-3942)


(NEWS)(IBM)(TOR)(00024)

IBM Plugs Gap In Server Line 04/07/93
SOMERS, NEW YORK, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Providing an
intermediate step between the PS/2 Model 95 and the PS/2 Server
295, IBM has launched a mid-sized fault-tolerant server, the PS/2
Server 195. The new machine is priced below $20,000, and IBM
accompanied the announcement with a cut in the price of some
Server 295 models by up to 30 percent.

The machine represents a new entry level for IBM's fault-tolerant
servers, said Dave Andonian, director of premium brand marketing
at IBM. It is aimed at much the same set of customers as the
Server 295, he said, but "this offers a whole new level of
scaleability."

Dave Saxby, IBM's director of servers, differentiated the Server
195 from the Model 95 by saying that the new server is aimed at
client/server computing setups, while the Model 95 is intended
more for traditional local area network use.

IBM also said it will offer NetWare, the popular local area
network operating system from Novell of Provo, Utah, on the
Server 195. IBM's own OS/2 operating system will also be
available on the machine. No announcement has been made about
offering Unix - widely considered a likely choice for the server
operating system in client/server computing - but it is being
considered, Andonian said.

The Server 195 comes with a 50 megahertz (MHz) Intel 486DX
processor, which can be upgraded to a multi-processor
configuration. The systems will also be upgradeable to Intel's
upcoming Pentium processors, the follow-on to the 486, Saxby
said.

Standard equipment includes 128 megabytes (MB) of error
checking and correcting (ECC) memory, and 256 kilobytes (KB)
of level two cache. Two disk channels using 32-bit reduced
instruction set computing (RISC) processors and the SCSI (Small
Computer Systems Interface) are able to support as much as 28
gigabytes of hard-disk storage using fault-tolerant redundant
arrays of inexpensive disks (RAID) technology.

All the Server 195 machines will be built to order, and IBM is
taking orders now for delivery in about three weeks from receipt
of order, Andonian said.

(Grant Buckler/19930407/Press Contact: Michael Reiter, IBM,
914-766-3226)


(NEWS)(GENERAL)(TOR)(00025)

Corel Launches SCSI, RAID Software 04/07/93
OTTAWA, ONTARIO, CANADA, 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Corel has
launched two new software products: an extended version of its
CorelSCSI software to drive SCSI (Small Computer Systems
Interface) peripherals; and software for redundant arrays of
inexpensive disks (RAID) storage systems.

Both packages were unveiled during the American Information
and Image Management (AIIM) show and conference in Chicago.

Corel said the new CorelSCSI Pro software goes beyond the
existing package by providing ways to optimize the use of
peripherals that work with the SCSI interface.

Features include extended support for compact disk read-only
memory (CD-ROM) drives, including the ability to run them on
Novell NetWare file servers and the ability to write data to
recordable CD-ROM drives. Support for more scanners and the
Sytos tape format has also been added. Device drivers in the new
software automatically determine what devices are attached and
reconfigure themselves when the system is booted up, Corel said.
There is also a new backup program.

Fiona Rochester, a spokeswoman for Corel, said the company will
continue selling CorelSCSI, while the new software will be aimed
at users who need more advanced features. CorelSCSI Pro has a
list price of US$495 or C$595, while CorelSCSI sells for US$99 or
C$119. Current users of CorelSCSI can upgrade for US$199 (C$249).
CorelSCSI Pro will be available in May, the company said.

Various makers of SCSI adapters that bundle CorelSCSI with their
hardware will continue to do so, Rochester said. Some may bundle
CorelSCSI Pro in future as well, but no deals are ready to be
announced.

CorelRAID is software meant to let computer users set up
multiple disk drives to look like a single volume to the computer,
while storing data on more than one disk to insure against disk
failures. It is designed to run on network file servers with
Novell NetWare 3.11 local area network operating system.

The software supports configurations that conform to RAID
Level 4 and Level 5 standards, the company said.

CorelRAID will have a suggested list price of US$995 or
C$1,195 and is due to be available in April. Always Technology
of Westlake Village, California, has already agreed to bundle
the software with its SCSI host adapters.

(Grant Buckler/19930407/Press Contact: Fiona Rochester or
Janie Sullivan, Corel Corp., 613-728-8200)


(NEWS)(GENERAL)(LAX)(00026)

 ****Network-Ready HP Lasers Offer PC/Mac Auto-switch 04/07/93
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Hewlett-
Packard has introduced two new 17-pages-per-minute, 600 dot-
per-inch network laser printers which the company says will
work simultaneously on a network with IBM and compatible
personal computers (PCs), Macintosh computers, Unix
workstations, and multiple networks. One of the new printers
also offers built-in Postscript Level 2 software, according to
Adobe Systems, creators of the Postscript page description
language.

The two printers are the HP Laserjet 4Si MX, which has the
built-in Postscript, and the HP Laserjet 4Si. Postscript
capability can be optionally added to the 4Si. Both printers
are based on Intel's reduced instruction set computing (RISC)
chip for printers, 80960CF 25 megahertz (MHz) processor, which
accounts for the page printing speed. Most laser printers print
between 4 and 8 pages-per-minute, but these two printers offer
17 pages-per-minute. Two 500-sheet input trays and one 500-
sheet output tray are standard on each printer to handle the
higher volume of paper.

Network connectivity is built-in to the HP Laserjet 4Si MX that
includes automatic switching among ten network operating
systems and automatic switching between the Ethernet, the
Macintosh's Localtalk, and HP Bi-Tronics network interfaces.
The MX also includes ten megabytes (MB) of RAM that can be
expanded to 26MB in addition to 35 Adobe Type 1 typefaces.

Automatic switching between the Adobe Postscript and the HP's
own page description language - PCL 5 - is done automatically
by the MX printer. The printer also saves the downloaded
typefaces, macros, dictionaries, and other resources in its
memory when switching between languages so the network user
does not have to worry about re-downloading needed information
to the printer.

Laserjet printers work by formatting the entire page in memory,
then printing that page. The new HP printers speed up printing
by formatting one page in a buffer while another page is
printing. Built-in multiple frame buffers allow the printer to
begin interpreting a Postscript language job while printing a
PCL job, or vice versa.

The Laserjet 4Si comes with 2MB of RAM, expandable to 36MB,
enhanced PCL 5, a high-speed Bi-Tronics parallel interface, and
two modular input/output (I/O) expansion slots for optional HP
Jetdirect interfaces which can be added to accommodate a
multiple network environment.

Hewlett-Packard says the HP Laserjet 4Si replaces the HP
Laserjet IIID and HP Laserjet IIISi printers. However, IIISi
owners who have Postscript Level 1 software can upgrade to
Postscript Level 2 software for $149. IIISi owners who wish to
got to Postscript Level 2 for the first time can expect to pay
$799.

The HP Laserjet 4Si MX printer is retail priced at $5,499 and
the HP Laserjet 4Si printer is offered at a retail price of
$3,749. The Postscript software option for the Si is an
additional $799. Hewlett-Packard says both printers are
available now from its authorized dealers and distributors
worldwide.

(Linda Rohrbough/19930407/Press Contact: Bill Hornung, Hewlett-
Packard, tel [phone], fax [phone]; Patricia Pane,
Adobe Systems, tel [phone])


(NEWS)(IBM)(LAX)(00027)

Dell To Bundle Wordstar's Ultrafax Fax/Modem Software 04/07/93
NOVATO, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Dell, one of the
top manufacturers of IBM and compatible personal computers
(PCs), says it has decided to install Wordstar's new Ultrafax
Windows fax communication software package with its systems
it offers with fax modems.

Ultrafax offers features Wordstar says are exclusive to its
product, including the ability to send data files between
Ultrafax users at the baud rate of the fax, similar to
attaching files to an electronic mail messages, and the ability
to combine pages from multiple faxes into a single fax document
using thumbnail sketches of the pages and drag and drop.
Sending data files at the speed of the fax means users can get
9,600 baud file transfer speed out of a fax modem that offers
the higher fax speed, but only a 2,400 baud modem speed. Users
can also view multiple documents, clean up poorly received
faxes, and create fax cover pages with any Windows program,
Wordstar said.

Wordstar has been buying other companies and other products in
the last two years, but company representatives told Newsbytes
the Ultrafax product was developed in-house using technology
Wordstar acquired when it purchased Zsoft, makers of PC Paint.
The Zsoft acquisition was announced last summer, but was
finalized in January of this year.

Dell has agreed to offer other Wordstar products in its
Dellware catalog as well as offering Ultrafax to Dell users who
decide to upgrade to a fax modem. The Dellware catalog will
offer Wordstar writing and reference tools, including The
American Heritage Dictionary, Correct Grammar, Correct Writing,
Correct Letters, Correct Quotes, Just Joking, and Under Cover
as well as the company's Photofinish 2.0 and Ultrafax products.

Dell was rated number one in February by Dataquest in overall
customer satisfaction. Dell was also number one in shipment
revenue and went from number eleven in personal computer
market share in 1991 to number five in market share in 1992.

(Linda Rohrbough/19930407/Press Contact: Barbara Reichert,
McLean Public Relations for Wordstar, tel [phone], fax
415-513-8810)


(NEWS)(UNIX)(LAX)(00028)

Sun Launches SPARC Technology Business Unit 04/07/93
MOUNTAIN VIEW, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Sun
has formed a special business unit - SPARC Technology
Business (STB) - for the purpose licensing its designs and
technology to other companies. While Sun representatives have
said the company does not expect SPARC clones to come out of
the formation of STB, it is hoping to get its technology into
other industries.

Six main areas of focus are the goals in placing Sun SPARC
technology, according to STB. They are in the areas of:
computers, specifically X terminals and portable computers;
telecommunications; industrial automation; office automation,
specifically printers; consumer products such as personal
digital assistants (PDAs) and cellular car phones; and military
applications.

STB is offering both the technology designs for those who want
to manufacture their own products, and the components
including application specific integrated circuits (ASIC). The
organization says its plan is to offer operating system
independent products and engineering support.

In addition, STB says it is offering SPARC Silicon Designs
encompassing the information to make standard or derivative
components for the Microsparc which is the basis of the
Sparcclass and Sparcstation LX desktop computers. Another
general category from STB is SPARC System Designs comprised
of motherboard designs to be used in portable systems, X
terminals, and embedded products. Customers can purchase
complete schematics and design tools as well. The two products
currently available are the SPARCdesign LX graphics system
motherboard and SPARCdesign 10 high-performance system
motherboard.

Sun is a leader in the reduced instruction set computing (RISC)
market, according to market research organization International
Data Corporation (IDC). SPARC systems represented 56 percent of
1992 RISC workstation/workstation server shipments, IDC
maintains. Sun says products based on SPARC technology are
available from more than 34 system vendors and seven
microprocessor/chipset vendors.

The company claims that the formation of STB is evidence of
its commitment to open technologies. Sun is hoping STB will
be successful because companies buying already developed
designs and technology can reduce their time to market.

(Linda Rohrbough/19930407/Press Contact: Mark Richardson,
Hi-Tech Communications for Sun, tel [phone],
fax [phone])


(NEWS)(TRENDS)(LAX)(00029)

Toshiba's 2.5-Inch 126MB Hard Drive 04/07/93
IRVINE, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Toshiba says it
is the first to introduce a 2.5-inch, 126 megabyte (MB) hard
disk drive that weighs 4.9 ounces and is less than a
half-inch in height.

Toshiba calls the new drive the MK-1522FCV and says the
drive is geared toward the slimline notebook, subnotebook, and
portable computer market. Performance is an issue as users
expect the same performance out of portable computers as they
get from their desktop machines, Toshiba said. This drive can
deliver, with a 15 millisecond (ms) average access time, a data
transfer rate of four megabytes-per-second (MBps), and a 128
kilobyte (KB) cache buffer, the company added.

The new drive can also meet the power requirements of the
portable market by consuming one watt from a single five-volt
power supply and spins up to operational speed in three
seconds. A single platter inside the case is where data is
written and Toshiba says the single platter makes the drive
more reliable.

The MK-1522FCV also offers a mean-time-between-failure
rate of 150,000 hours. The drive has an IBM personal computer
(PC) AT interface and its dimensions are 0.5-inches high,
2.76-inches wide, and 3.94-inches deep.

In original equipment manufacturer (OEM) quantities, the
MK-1522FCV is $325 with samples available this month and
volume production ramping up in July of this year.

(Linda Rohrbough/19930407/Press Contact: Karen Allen, The
Benjamin Group for Toshiba, tel [phone], fax
714-753-0844; Public Contact Toshiba 714-583-3000)


(NEWS)(APPLE)(SFO)(00030)

Multimedia Link To Mac Video Bundled With Action! 04/07/93
CONCORD, CALIFORNIA, U.S.A., 1993 APR 7 (NB) -- Display Tech
is shipping the Mac DisplayLink, a low-cost link to video, and an
alternative to the high cost of data display.

The Mac DisplayLink allows you to display the output onto video
sources from Apple Macintosh computers. Use the Apple 8%24,
8%24GC or compatible card to display the RGB signal onto
conventional video monitors or projectors, or record the output
onto videotape. The Mac DisplayLink will also work with the
on-board video of the Quadra line of Apple computers.

The Mac DisplayLink comes bundled with Action! Mac from
Macromedia which, the company claims, allows computers
users to easily combine graphics, motion, text, animation,
sound and interaction to create "professional-quality, high-
impact multimedia presentations instantly."

Because the Mac DisplayLink outputs to video, Action! Mac can
print presentations to videotape for distribution and display.
The Mac DisplayLink, an external video encoder, produces
either a 640 by 480- or 512 by 384-pixel image. Supporting
both standard NTSC and high-resolution S-Video signals, it
displays computer output on cost-effective presentation video
equipment instead of expensive data displays, computer
projectors or LCD (liquid crystal display) panels, claims the
company.

The Mac DisplayLink supports QuickTime movies and CD-ROM
technology, offering flicker-free viewing in gray-scaled black
and white, as well as 4, 16, 256 or "millions of colors" modes.
For higher resolution you can output S-video, resulting in a 60
percent improvement over conventional video signals, the
company claims.

Two models are available: Model CF-530 (NTSC) with Action!
Mac, for a suggested retail price of $489; and Model MF-530,
for $649 (PAL).

(Computer Currents/19930407)