Monday, May 10, 2010
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Intel Xeon 5500 Series Processors for Servers and Workstations
There are a few key things you have to know about the 5500 series before you design your next server or workstation.
First you need to know that they are an order of magnitude better than the 5400 series, offering over 100% better performance with signicantly lower power consumption. Why its faster, is not the purpose of this article, but that information can be found here. Helping you understand the models, and how to architect a system around them is the purpose of this article.
There are a number of models, that fall into three categories.
1) The models that start with 550 are entry level models with 4MB L3 Cache and use DDR3 800 memory. They all have four cores except for the 5502, which has two.
2) The Models from the 5520 to the 5540 have 8MB L3 cache, use DDR3 800 or 1066 memory, and have the added benefit of Turbo Boost and Hyperthreading.
3) The top models starintg with the 5540 also can use DDR3 1333 memory, and have significantly more potential benefit from Turbo Boost.
Before we discuss the memory architecture, a quick summary of the other features.
Hyperthreading, as you might recall from prior processors, is the abilty to run two threads per core, to better saturate the processor with work. With two Quad Core 5500 series processors and hyperthreading, you get 16 threads. This is really helpful for Virtualization.
Turbo Boost is a new concept. Turbo Boost allows the processors to overclock automatically if doing so will not cause the processor to exceed its rated power consumption and thermal footprint. For example if an application that runs on one or two cores is running, the processor will power down the unused cores, and boost the performance of the remaining cores. The bottom line, is the better the thermal design of the server and the better cooled the environment, the more effective Turbo Boost will be.
Memory architecture is very important when planning systems around the 5500 series. Here is how it works.
Each processor has three paths to memory, so it peaks its performance if you purchase 3 DIMMS per processor. In a dual processor system you should consider 6, 12, and 24GB to be top performance for the dollar, using 1GB, 2GB, or 4GB modules.
Another key concept is that each processor can have up to three banks of memory, but there is a substancial performance penalty if you use banks two and three. If you use one bank of 3 modules per processor, and if you use one of the top category processors, then can benefit from the purchase of DDR3 1333MHz memory.
But, if you place even one more module in the system, all of the memory drops down to 1066. If you place any memory in a the third bank, your memory will all operate at 800MHz.
Because expanding beyong the first bank (3 per processor, 6 in total DIMMs) causes a serious reduction in speed, I recommend purchasing the largest modules that make finanfial sense (2 or 4GB), and populate as many sockets as you need in the first bank. Go to 8GB modules if you need lots of memory, but they are currently very expensive.
If performance really matters then populate all six sockets in a 2 processor system. If performance is not an issue yet, its better to buy fewer higher capacity modules now so you can upgrade later without reducing performance.
Most servers don't require the top processors. For those servers, using more banks of memory will not necessarily entail a loss of perfomance. The 550X processors only support 800MHz memory anyway, so they suffer no penalty from using all the memory banks. The next level support up to 1066MHz, so they suffer no penalty from using 2 banks or 6 DIMMs per processor.
In all cases you maximize your data path by using exactly three DIMMS per bank per processor.
Finally when a motherboard has only one processor, make sure you do not populate the second processor's memory banks, as they will not be available. Conversely if you have two processors, make sure you distribute the memory evenly between them.
Best of all let Ashlin help you design your servers based on your specific requirements, both now, and in the future.
First you need to know that they are an order of magnitude better than the 5400 series, offering over 100% better performance with signicantly lower power consumption. Why its faster, is not the purpose of this article, but that information can be found here. Helping you understand the models, and how to architect a system around them is the purpose of this article.
There are a number of models, that fall into three categories.
1) The models that start with 550 are entry level models with 4MB L3 Cache and use DDR3 800 memory. They all have four cores except for the 5502, which has two.
2) The Models from the 5520 to the 5540 have 8MB L3 cache, use DDR3 800 or 1066 memory, and have the added benefit of Turbo Boost and Hyperthreading.
3) The top models starintg with the 5540 also can use DDR3 1333 memory, and have significantly more potential benefit from Turbo Boost.
Before we discuss the memory architecture, a quick summary of the other features.
Hyperthreading, as you might recall from prior processors, is the abilty to run two threads per core, to better saturate the processor with work. With two Quad Core 5500 series processors and hyperthreading, you get 16 threads. This is really helpful for Virtualization.
Turbo Boost is a new concept. Turbo Boost allows the processors to overclock automatically if doing so will not cause the processor to exceed its rated power consumption and thermal footprint. For example if an application that runs on one or two cores is running, the processor will power down the unused cores, and boost the performance of the remaining cores. The bottom line, is the better the thermal design of the server and the better cooled the environment, the more effective Turbo Boost will be.
Memory architecture is very important when planning systems around the 5500 series. Here is how it works.
Each processor has three paths to memory, so it peaks its performance if you purchase 3 DIMMS per processor. In a dual processor system you should consider 6, 12, and 24GB to be top performance for the dollar, using 1GB, 2GB, or 4GB modules.
Another key concept is that each processor can have up to three banks of memory, but there is a substancial performance penalty if you use banks two and three. If you use one bank of 3 modules per processor, and if you use one of the top category processors, then can benefit from the purchase of DDR3 1333MHz memory.
But, if you place even one more module in the system, all of the memory drops down to 1066. If you place any memory in a the third bank, your memory will all operate at 800MHz.
Because expanding beyong the first bank (3 per processor, 6 in total DIMMs) causes a serious reduction in speed, I recommend purchasing the largest modules that make finanfial sense (2 or 4GB), and populate as many sockets as you need in the first bank. Go to 8GB modules if you need lots of memory, but they are currently very expensive.
If performance really matters then populate all six sockets in a 2 processor system. If performance is not an issue yet, its better to buy fewer higher capacity modules now so you can upgrade later without reducing performance.
Most servers don't require the top processors. For those servers, using more banks of memory will not necessarily entail a loss of perfomance. The 550X processors only support 800MHz memory anyway, so they suffer no penalty from using all the memory banks. The next level support up to 1066MHz, so they suffer no penalty from using 2 banks or 6 DIMMs per processor.
In all cases you maximize your data path by using exactly three DIMMS per bank per processor.
Finally when a motherboard has only one processor, make sure you do not populate the second processor's memory banks, as they will not be available. Conversely if you have two processors, make sure you distribute the memory evenly between them.
Best of all let Ashlin help you design your servers based on your specific requirements, both now, and in the future.
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
Conflicker Worm Update
A recent development regarding the Conficker virus has been detected, where it is now directing infected machines to download new, harmful files, thus activating the botnet. Here’s how this new behavior works:
Conficker sends out email spam without the PC owner’s knowledge. In addition, Conficker uses pop-ups to warn of PC infection and offers fake antivirus software, called 'SpywareProtect2009' at a price of $49.95. If purchased, credit card information is stolen and the virus downloads even more malicious software.
If you encounter a pop-up like this, do not click on the pop-up at all - not even to close the box. To remove the pop-up without infection, open your Task Manager (Ctrl+Alt+Delete), and end the task from your Browser (Explorer, Firefox, etc.). You should take additional precautions to ensure you are not already infected and have adequate protection:
• Keep your Operating Software up-to-date
• Learn more about Conficker
• Invest in a high-end security product
Conficker sends out email spam without the PC owner’s knowledge. In addition, Conficker uses pop-ups to warn of PC infection and offers fake antivirus software, called 'SpywareProtect2009' at a price of $49.95. If purchased, credit card information is stolen and the virus downloads even more malicious software.
If you encounter a pop-up like this, do not click on the pop-up at all - not even to close the box. To remove the pop-up without infection, open your Task Manager (Ctrl+Alt+Delete), and end the task from your Browser (Explorer, Firefox, etc.). You should take additional precautions to ensure you are not already infected and have adequate protection:
• Keep your Operating Software up-to-date
• Learn more about Conficker
• Invest in a high-end security product
Monday, May 04, 2009
Sonicwall TZ210 UTM Appliance
The SonicWALL TZ 210 Series of network security appliances eliminates firewall performance bottlenecks while delivering unsurpassed Unified Threat Management (UTM) protection. Unlike other vendors’ solutions, the SonicWALL TZ 210 offers both protection and performance without compromise. The TZ 210 and TZ 210 Wireless-N deliver unmatched stateful packet inspection speeds of up to 200 Mbps, dramatically improving network performance and allowing you to get the most out of your network investment. The improved performance enables SonicWALL’s patented Deep Packet Inspection technology to inspect and ruthlessly eliminate viruses, spyware, and other threats. The TZ 210 provides a full range of firewall capabilities in an easy-to-manage solution that can adapt to standalone or distributed configurations. Like more than a million other SonicWALL appliances protecting businesses around the world, each TZ 210 delivers reliable, cost-effective network protection and performance.
Protection - Keep your network safe from threats
Performance - Remove the network performance bottleneck
Flexibility - Fits into any small or distributed enterprise organization
Ease-of-Use - Easy to set-up, operate and manage
Business Continuity - Failover, failback and more
Protection
Deep Packet Inspection Engine - A configurable, high-performance deep packet inspection engine for extended protection to key Internet services such as Web, e-mail, file transfer, Windows services and DNS
ICSA-Certified Stateful Packet Inspection Firewall - Industry-recognized standards for enterprise-class firewall protection, ensuring the integrity and validity of each connection, packet, source and destination
Comprehensive Security - Supports SonicWALL’s suite of security services including Gateway Anti-Virus and Anti-Spyware, Intrusion Prevention Service, Enforced Client Anti-Virus, Content Filtering Service and Global Security Client.
SonicWALL PortShield - The SonicWALL PortShield architecture provides the flexibility to configure port level security for the LAN, providing protection not only from the WAN and DMZ, but also between devices inside the LAN.
Performance
High-performance Architecture - Utilizing the advanced processing technology found in the SonicWALL NSA Series, the TZ 210 delivers throughput speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
Wireless (802.11b/g/n) - Supports the 802.11n standard which is over five times faster than the current status quo of 802.11g.
Gigabit Interfaces - Includes 2 Gigabit Ethernet Interfaces and 5 Fast Ethernet interfaces to deliver bottleneck-free network performance.
Flexibility with Control
Wireless Guest Services - Create user accounts for occasional guest users such as consultants and contractors that permit wireless connections to the Internet without providing access to the corporate network.
Multiple Zones for Different User Types - Create multiple zones of access for different user types, providing an unprecedented level of control without compromising the security of the network.
Time-based and Group Policies - Create security policies that can be enforced according to pre-defined schedules. Specify start and end ranges on an individual or group policy basis, offering more granular network control. Create and assign security policies to a large number of users with minimal effort, simplifying User Level Authentication for Internet and VPN access.
Virtual Private Networking - Enable secure site-to-site VPN connections with IPSec-based connectivity. For secure remote access, both SSL VPN and IPSec VPN clients are included enabling gateway enforcment, centralized management and configuration flexibility in managing and securing remote workforce network access.
Ease-Of-Use
Set-up and Management - An innovative Web interface utilizes a comprehensive suite of easy-to-use configuration and management wizards designed to guide you through the set-up of common network configurations (e.g., public server wizard, VPN wizard, NAT wizard).
Integrated auto-MDIX Ports - An integrated 5-port auto-MDIX switch automatically and transparently detects and corrects incorrectly wired cables such as cross-over cables, making network installation substantially simpler and less expensive.
Comprehensive Central Management Using SonicWALL GMS - SonicWALL’s award-winning Global Management System (GMS) provides network administrators with the tools for simplified configuration, enforcement and management of multiple global security policies, VPN and services for multiple system, all from a central location.
Business Continuity
Failover and Failback Technologies - Ensures continuous uptime for IPSec VPN tunnels by failing over to a wireless WAN connection should the broadband connection fail. Once the broadband is re-established, the TZ 210 fails back, providing the best connection speed possible.
WAN Redundancy and Load Balancing - Configure a secondary WAN port, delivering highly reliable network connectivity and robust performance. This secondary WAN port can be used in “active-active” load sharing or failover configuration providing a highly-efficient method for maximizing total network bandwidth.
ISP Failover - Ensure continuous uptime for Internet and IPSec VPN connectivity by failing over to a second ISP link should the primary link fail. Through ISP failover, the TZ 210 delivers highly reliable network connectivity for constant access to critical data.
Protection - Keep your network safe from threats
Performance - Remove the network performance bottleneck
Flexibility - Fits into any small or distributed enterprise organization
Ease-of-Use - Easy to set-up, operate and manage
Business Continuity - Failover, failback and more
Protection
Deep Packet Inspection Engine - A configurable, high-performance deep packet inspection engine for extended protection to key Internet services such as Web, e-mail, file transfer, Windows services and DNS
ICSA-Certified Stateful Packet Inspection Firewall - Industry-recognized standards for enterprise-class firewall protection, ensuring the integrity and validity of each connection, packet, source and destination
Comprehensive Security - Supports SonicWALL’s suite of security services including Gateway Anti-Virus and Anti-Spyware, Intrusion Prevention Service, Enforced Client Anti-Virus, Content Filtering Service and Global Security Client.
SonicWALL PortShield - The SonicWALL PortShield architecture provides the flexibility to configure port level security for the LAN, providing protection not only from the WAN and DMZ, but also between devices inside the LAN.
Performance
High-performance Architecture - Utilizing the advanced processing technology found in the SonicWALL NSA Series, the TZ 210 delivers throughput speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
Wireless (802.11b/g/n) - Supports the 802.11n standard which is over five times faster than the current status quo of 802.11g.
Gigabit Interfaces - Includes 2 Gigabit Ethernet Interfaces and 5 Fast Ethernet interfaces to deliver bottleneck-free network performance.
Flexibility with Control
Wireless Guest Services - Create user accounts for occasional guest users such as consultants and contractors that permit wireless connections to the Internet without providing access to the corporate network.
Multiple Zones for Different User Types - Create multiple zones of access for different user types, providing an unprecedented level of control without compromising the security of the network.
Time-based and Group Policies - Create security policies that can be enforced according to pre-defined schedules. Specify start and end ranges on an individual or group policy basis, offering more granular network control. Create and assign security policies to a large number of users with minimal effort, simplifying User Level Authentication for Internet and VPN access.
Virtual Private Networking - Enable secure site-to-site VPN connections with IPSec-based connectivity. For secure remote access, both SSL VPN and IPSec VPN clients are included enabling gateway enforcment, centralized management and configuration flexibility in managing and securing remote workforce network access.
Ease-Of-Use
Set-up and Management - An innovative Web interface utilizes a comprehensive suite of easy-to-use configuration and management wizards designed to guide you through the set-up of common network configurations (e.g., public server wizard, VPN wizard, NAT wizard).
Integrated auto-MDIX Ports - An integrated 5-port auto-MDIX switch automatically and transparently detects and corrects incorrectly wired cables such as cross-over cables, making network installation substantially simpler and less expensive.
Comprehensive Central Management Using SonicWALL GMS - SonicWALL’s award-winning Global Management System (GMS) provides network administrators with the tools for simplified configuration, enforcement and management of multiple global security policies, VPN and services for multiple system, all from a central location.
Business Continuity
Failover and Failback Technologies - Ensures continuous uptime for IPSec VPN tunnels by failing over to a wireless WAN connection should the broadband connection fail. Once the broadband is re-established, the TZ 210 fails back, providing the best connection speed possible.
WAN Redundancy and Load Balancing - Configure a secondary WAN port, delivering highly reliable network connectivity and robust performance. This secondary WAN port can be used in “active-active” load sharing or failover configuration providing a highly-efficient method for maximizing total network bandwidth.
ISP Failover - Ensure continuous uptime for Internet and IPSec VPN connectivity by failing over to a second ISP link should the primary link fail. Through ISP failover, the TZ 210 delivers highly reliable network connectivity for constant access to critical data.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Fujitsu ScanSnap S1500 Color Image Scanner
Improve office productivity and reduce reliance on paper with the ScanSnap S1500 new from Fujitsu. It can save office space, reduce storage cost and enhance business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-eCommerce (B2C) communication.
It's ideal for business professionals in any industry looking to achieve the "paperless office".
It's feature rich and can do the following: Scan to pdf, Scan to Word, Excel and PowerPoint, Scan to Email, Scan to Email, Scan to Folder, Scan to Printer (copy), and Scan to Picture Folder (eg JPEG files).
Here are some special features: Scan to Cardminder for business cards, Scan to SharePoint Server and Scan to Rack2Filer software, bundled with the S1500 at no extra cost. RackFiler2 software is a powerful tool for organizing, archiving and retrieving documents. Check out RackFiler2 at this web site:
http://www.fujitsu.com/us/services/computing/peripherals/scanners/software
For more information and pricing, contact Ashlin at 416-256-3096 or sales@ashlin.ca
It's ideal for business professionals in any industry looking to achieve the "paperless office".
It's feature rich and can do the following: Scan to pdf, Scan to Word, Excel and PowerPoint, Scan to Email, Scan to Email, Scan to Folder, Scan to Printer (copy), and Scan to Picture Folder (eg JPEG files).
Here are some special features: Scan to Cardminder for business cards, Scan to SharePoint Server and Scan to Rack2Filer software, bundled with the S1500 at no extra cost. RackFiler2 software is a powerful tool for organizing, archiving and retrieving documents. Check out RackFiler2 at this web site:
http://www.fujitsu.com/us/services/computing/peripherals/scanners/software
For more information and pricing, contact Ashlin at 416-256-3096 or sales@ashlin.ca
Monday, April 27, 2009
Tripp Lite Introduces New KVM Switches with Built-In IP Access
Tripp Lite’s new NetDirector® Cat5 IP and Console KVM Switches enable remote control of connected computers by up to 5 independent, simultaneous users (1 local, 4 remote). Cascade additional KVMs to control up to 256 computers or servers from a single console. RJ45 connectors facilitate efficient, economical installation with inexpensive Cat5e cabling. Console KVM Switches include an integrated 17“ LCD monitor, keyboard and touchpad in a 1U retractable, sliding housing.
Eee Box 206 Home Entertainment Nettop
The Eee Box has always offered a stylish, quiet, and energy efficient solution that provides incredible value for small businesses, education, and light home users. But its lack of dedicated graphics limited its potential as a home entertainment hub - until now.
With the addition of a Dedicated Graphics Engine (DGE) and HDMI connectivity, the new Eee Box 206 becomes an excellent home entertainment hub. It provides high definition audio and video entertainment, is ultra-quiet and very attractive as a consumer product should be, and only uses a small percentage of the energy a typical PC users. And because it’s a member of the Eee family, it makes it easy to learn, easy to work and easy to play. If you haven’t pushed the Eee Box to home users, now is the perfect time.
Home Entertainment Hub
The digital content revolution means that today’s users have much more available to them than just DVDs or CDs. Today’s users download movies and songs, and store photos and movies from their camcorders digitally. They want everything available to them for viewing on their big screen televisions and surround sound stereo systems.
With a built-in Dedicated Graphics Engine (DGE) Radeon HD 3450 256MB powered by ATI and HDMI connectivity, the Eee Box 206 has the necessary ingredients to be the home entertainment hub people are looking for. Users can take advantage of all of the above mentioned content, in addition to
surfing the Internet, playing games and more in true-to-life clarity. And with a full-featured media player, Eee Cinema and an exclusive remote control, their multimedia libraries are easy to organize and content is easy to access, even from the comfort of the livingroom couch.
Quiet and Reliable Home Computing
A system that will be used in a living room as part of a home entertainment system must meet specific criteria. It must be pleasing to look at, unobtrusive, and quite. The Eee Box 206 is barely audible at only 26dB, which is quieter than a whisper. And it’s clean, high tech looks mean that it will fit into the livingroom seamlessly. It’s even small enough to mount on the back of a TV, monitor or under a desk for those who prefer it to be invisible.
Energy Efficient and power saving
The Eee Box 206 saves up to 90% power consumption vs. tower PCs. This power savings translates into into cash - from $12 per year for light users to as much as $156 per year for constant usage. The Eee Box 206 integrates an optimized air flow design and silent Q-fan technology (fan speed control) for quiet and efficient system cooling. With an uninterrupted power
Easy to Learn, Work and Play
The Eee Box 206 gives users even more, but it is still easy to use. Easy Mode brings up an intuitive icon-based user interface that allows one-click to access your work documents or PC applications that is suitable for users of almost all ages. The Eee Box 206 even comes with attractive matching accessories like a Chiclet-style wireless keyboard, wireless mouse, and a multimedia remote for easy control.
The new Eee Box 206 can open up a the home entertainment segment for your business. Even corporate accounts will appreciate the choice of an Eee Box with extra power.
With the addition of a Dedicated Graphics Engine (DGE) and HDMI connectivity, the new Eee Box 206 becomes an excellent home entertainment hub. It provides high definition audio and video entertainment, is ultra-quiet and very attractive as a consumer product should be, and only uses a small percentage of the energy a typical PC users. And because it’s a member of the Eee family, it makes it easy to learn, easy to work and easy to play. If you haven’t pushed the Eee Box to home users, now is the perfect time.
Home Entertainment Hub
The digital content revolution means that today’s users have much more available to them than just DVDs or CDs. Today’s users download movies and songs, and store photos and movies from their camcorders digitally. They want everything available to them for viewing on their big screen televisions and surround sound stereo systems.
With a built-in Dedicated Graphics Engine (DGE) Radeon HD 3450 256MB powered by ATI and HDMI connectivity, the Eee Box 206 has the necessary ingredients to be the home entertainment hub people are looking for. Users can take advantage of all of the above mentioned content, in addition to
surfing the Internet, playing games and more in true-to-life clarity. And with a full-featured media player, Eee Cinema and an exclusive remote control, their multimedia libraries are easy to organize and content is easy to access, even from the comfort of the livingroom couch.
Quiet and Reliable Home Computing
A system that will be used in a living room as part of a home entertainment system must meet specific criteria. It must be pleasing to look at, unobtrusive, and quite. The Eee Box 206 is barely audible at only 26dB, which is quieter than a whisper. And it’s clean, high tech looks mean that it will fit into the livingroom seamlessly. It’s even small enough to mount on the back of a TV, monitor or under a desk for those who prefer it to be invisible.
Energy Efficient and power saving
The Eee Box 206 saves up to 90% power consumption vs. tower PCs. This power savings translates into into cash - from $12 per year for light users to as much as $156 per year for constant usage. The Eee Box 206 integrates an optimized air flow design and silent Q-fan technology (fan speed control) for quiet and efficient system cooling. With an uninterrupted power
Easy to Learn, Work and Play
The Eee Box 206 gives users even more, but it is still easy to use. Easy Mode brings up an intuitive icon-based user interface that allows one-click to access your work documents or PC applications that is suitable for users of almost all ages. The Eee Box 206 even comes with attractive matching accessories like a Chiclet-style wireless keyboard, wireless mouse, and a multimedia remote for easy control.
The new Eee Box 206 can open up a the home entertainment segment for your business. Even corporate accounts will appreciate the choice of an Eee Box with extra power.
Seagate BlackArmor NAS 440 and 420
The Seagate® BlackArmor® NAS 440/420 storage server is a complete, small-business-specific network storage solution designed to provide optimum uptime and data integrity to ensure business continuity for up to 50 workstations. Continuously and automatically protect business-critical data with incremental and full-system backup, bare metal restore (full-system restore) and individual file to entire volume encryption. Enhance data integrity and/or performance with RAID 0/1/5/10 & JBOD configuration options. Access files securely over the internet from any popular web browser — no special software required. Includes four energy efficient, reliable Seagate® hard drives. All four drives are easily removable without tools and hot-swappable to optimize uptime and data availability. Backed by a 3-year limited warranty from Seagate, the world leader in storage technology.
BlackArmor NAS 420
The BlackArmor NAS 420 storage server has the same hardware and software features as the BlackArmor NAS 440 storage server, but has two hard drives preinstalled instead of four. As your business grows, add two more hard drives to the system to take advantage of RAID 5/10 configurations and increase storage capacity.
Highlights:
• User-configurable RAID 0/1/5/10 & JBOD
• Four USB 2.0 ports for external drives, printers and UPS (uninterrupted power supply)
• Offers the level of security that is right for your business – from individual files to entire volume encryption
• On-board LCD screen for quick status info
• Microsoft® Active Directory support
• Multi-volume management
• Event email notification
• DLNA and iTunes® media streaming
• 3-year limited warranty
• Designed for small business to provide optimum uptime and data integrity for up to 50 workstations
• Supports Windows® XP, Windows Vista® operating systems and Mac OS® X 10.4.11 or later
• Includes energy efficient, reliable Seagate® hard drives
• Incremental and full-system, scheduled, automatic backup for network connected PCs using Windows® XP and Windows Vista® operating systems
• Secure internet access from any popular web browser – no special software required
• Hot-swappable, user-replaceable drives — no tools required
• Two Ethernet ports for local network connection, port failover and NAS to NAS replication
• Includes 10 software licenses, additional licenses available at www.seagate.com
Here is how the BlackArmor NAS lines up against the competition.
BlackArmor NAS 420
The BlackArmor NAS 420 storage server has the same hardware and software features as the BlackArmor NAS 440 storage server, but has two hard drives preinstalled instead of four. As your business grows, add two more hard drives to the system to take advantage of RAID 5/10 configurations and increase storage capacity.
Highlights:
• User-configurable RAID 0/1/5/10 & JBOD
• Four USB 2.0 ports for external drives, printers and UPS (uninterrupted power supply)
• Offers the level of security that is right for your business – from individual files to entire volume encryption
• On-board LCD screen for quick status info
• Microsoft® Active Directory support
• Multi-volume management
• Event email notification
• DLNA and iTunes® media streaming
• 3-year limited warranty
• Designed for small business to provide optimum uptime and data integrity for up to 50 workstations
• Supports Windows® XP, Windows Vista® operating systems and Mac OS® X 10.4.11 or later
• Includes energy efficient, reliable Seagate® hard drives
• Incremental and full-system, scheduled, automatic backup for network connected PCs using Windows® XP and Windows Vista® operating systems
• Secure internet access from any popular web browser – no special software required
• Hot-swappable, user-replaceable drives — no tools required
• Two Ethernet ports for local network connection, port failover and NAS to NAS replication
• Includes 10 software licenses, additional licenses available at www.seagate.com
Here is how the BlackArmor NAS lines up against the competition.
Tuesday, April 07, 2009
Reduce Knowledge Worker Printing 22% in 60 days
Take Control of your Print Evolution Strategy
Ashlin's partner, Preo Software Inc. is the market leader in providing Print Knowledge Management Systems (PKMS) to enterprises around the world. Printelligence, the flagship SaaS offering, includes a 4-step cost savings process named MACH, a patented PKMS Rules Engine and an ROI Program. Decreasing an organization’s print volume is paramount to controlling print costs. Decrease your print Volume 22% in the next 60 days
Printelligence™ can be rapidly deployed into your organization giving you insight into your Total Cost of Print. With this knowledge you can implement printing business rules allowing you to decreases print volumes by up to 8% on the first day, 16% in the first 30 days and 22% in the first 60 days. First year print volume reduction can be as high as 30%.
Printelligence™, with the patented PKMS Rules Engine, changes employee print behavior by educating them about the true cost of print. Preo is designed to save you money; our sole focus is to educate your employees and help you drive down your print volumes.
Free 30 day Trial!!!
Ashlin's partner, Preo Software Inc. is the market leader in providing Print Knowledge Management Systems (PKMS) to enterprises around the world. Printelligence, the flagship SaaS offering, includes a 4-step cost savings process named MACH, a patented PKMS Rules Engine and an ROI Program. Decreasing an organization’s print volume is paramount to controlling print costs. Decrease your print Volume 22% in the next 60 days
Printelligence™ can be rapidly deployed into your organization giving you insight into your Total Cost of Print. With this knowledge you can implement printing business rules allowing you to decreases print volumes by up to 8% on the first day, 16% in the first 30 days and 22% in the first 60 days. First year print volume reduction can be as high as 30%.
Printelligence™, with the patented PKMS Rules Engine, changes employee print behavior by educating them about the true cost of print. Preo is designed to save you money; our sole focus is to educate your employees and help you drive down your print volumes.
Free 30 day Trial!!!
Friday, April 03, 2009
What does Lifetime Warranty Really Mean
Watch out because for some manufacturers, Lifetime, does not mean your lifetime, but the length of time that the manufacturer decides to support the product.
In other words it really means nothing.
Netgear and HP offer true lifetime warranties, and in Netgears case it covers all their switches, firewalls, and wireless devices, including the power supplies and fans. HP covers most of this, but not all their switches, so check the model.
So ask your Ashlin technology adviser which products offer you true protection before placing your orders.
In other words it really means nothing.
Netgear and HP offer true lifetime warranties, and in Netgears case it covers all their switches, firewalls, and wireless devices, including the power supplies and fans. HP covers most of this, but not all their switches, so check the model.
So ask your Ashlin technology adviser which products offer you true protection before placing your orders.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Free Next Business Day Onsite Exchange on NEC Multisync 15 Series
Until June 30, 2009 when you purchase any NEC Multisync 15 series model (LCD3215, LCD4215, LCD4615) from Ashlin NEC will give you a full year of Advance Exchange Overnight Service.
Go to http://www.necdisplay.com/supportcenter/registration/ to register your display befroe July 31 to qualify for this special offer.
Go to http://www.necdisplay.com/supportcenter/registration/ to register your display befroe July 31 to qualify for this special offer.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Conflicker Worm
Courtesy of Trend Micro, here are some valuable tips.
How do I know whether my my PCs are infected?
Scan your PCs using their current Trend Micro product or HouseCall to see whether they are infected. If it is determined that they are infected, find instructions for removal below:
•
Consumers
•
Small Business
•
Medium Business, Enterprise
How do I protect my PCs from being infected?
•
Immediately install patches/updates for MS08067 and other vulnerabilities as soon as vendors release these patches. You should configure their PCs to receive automatic updates and patches from Microsoft and software vendors.
•
Make sure your security software is up to date.
•
Disable the “Drive Auto-run” feature to avoid infections from USB drives.
•
Employ secure passwords using a combination of letters, numbers and symbols and frequently change them.
•
Take caution when searching online for DOWNAD and Conficker information. There are reports of rogue antivirus packages that are taking advantage of the situation. They will tell you that you are infected and ask you to pay money to download their application, which in many cases turns out to be malware.
Additional information from Sophos
In less than six months, the Conficker/Downadup worm has infected thousands of business networks--making it the most widespread worm infection since SQL Slammer in 2003.
If your computers are unpatched, they’re still at risk.
Download a free Conficker detection and removal tool from Sophos
Conficker uses advanced malware techniques to exploit vulnerable computers, weak passwords and USB storage devices. Learn more about how the Conficker worm works in a free 10-minute podcast with Paul Ducklin of Sophos.
Listen to the podcast about Conficker
For all your security needs, contact Ashlin.
How do I know whether my my PCs are infected?
Scan your PCs using their current Trend Micro product or HouseCall to see whether they are infected. If it is determined that they are infected, find instructions for removal below:
•
Consumers
•
Small Business
•
Medium Business, Enterprise
How do I protect my PCs from being infected?
•
Immediately install patches/updates for MS08067 and other vulnerabilities as soon as vendors release these patches. You should configure their PCs to receive automatic updates and patches from Microsoft and software vendors.
•
Make sure your security software is up to date.
•
Disable the “Drive Auto-run” feature to avoid infections from USB drives.
•
Employ secure passwords using a combination of letters, numbers and symbols and frequently change them.
•
Take caution when searching online for DOWNAD and Conficker information. There are reports of rogue antivirus packages that are taking advantage of the situation. They will tell you that you are infected and ask you to pay money to download their application, which in many cases turns out to be malware.
Additional information from Sophos
In less than six months, the Conficker/Downadup worm has infected thousands of business networks--making it the most widespread worm infection since SQL Slammer in 2003.
If your computers are unpatched, they’re still at risk.
Download a free Conficker detection and removal tool from Sophos
Conficker uses advanced malware techniques to exploit vulnerable computers, weak passwords and USB storage devices. Learn more about how the Conficker worm works in a free 10-minute podcast with Paul Ducklin of Sophos.
Listen to the podcast about Conficker
For all your security needs, contact Ashlin.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
3LCD Projectors from Epson
The Benefits of 3LCD
3LCD produces beautiful, vibrant images, making it today’s best selling projection technology worldwide. From gorgeous, life-like colours to fluid rapid-motion video, the 3LCD
Vibrant Colour
Epson's 3LCD system faithfully reproduces the visible colour spectrum, so you see brilliant colours that rival real life. Especially in the darkest parts of images, the precision of each LCD panel allows for smooth transitions from light to dark, and colour to colour, for even the most subtle of changes. 3LCD's solid-state design gives you accurate colour registration, which means that you see crisp, detailed, precise images without any rainbow effect or colour break-up.
Detailed Images
Epson's 3LCD projection systems produce bright, clear, and high-contrast images. The brightness of the projector is particularly significant in semi-lit or artificial light environments, such as meeting rooms or lecture halls, where a brighter image creates a more defined picture. In darker home theater settings, 3LCD's high-contrast images make even the darkest scenes luminous and clear.
Efficient Design
Epson's projectors, televisions, and other 3LCD products are extremely well-designed, high-performance systems. For example, the 3LCD optical engines are optimized for excellent light conservation, bringing more photons of light to the screen than any other projection system. This attention to detail is part of the reason that Epson has been the number one brand of projectors sold worldwide.
3LCD produces beautiful, vibrant images, making it today’s best selling projection technology worldwide. From gorgeous, life-like colours to fluid rapid-motion video, the 3LCD
Vibrant Colour
Epson's 3LCD system faithfully reproduces the visible colour spectrum, so you see brilliant colours that rival real life. Especially in the darkest parts of images, the precision of each LCD panel allows for smooth transitions from light to dark, and colour to colour, for even the most subtle of changes. 3LCD's solid-state design gives you accurate colour registration, which means that you see crisp, detailed, precise images without any rainbow effect or colour break-up.
Detailed Images
Epson's 3LCD projection systems produce bright, clear, and high-contrast images. The brightness of the projector is particularly significant in semi-lit or artificial light environments, such as meeting rooms or lecture halls, where a brighter image creates a more defined picture. In darker home theater settings, 3LCD's high-contrast images make even the darkest scenes luminous and clear.
Efficient Design
Epson's projectors, televisions, and other 3LCD products are extremely well-designed, high-performance systems. For example, the 3LCD optical engines are optimized for excellent light conservation, bringing more photons of light to the screen than any other projection system. This attention to detail is part of the reason that Epson has been the number one brand of projectors sold worldwide.
Benq - First 4 Year Projector Warranty
Effective March 1st 2009 Benq is offering a 4 year warranty on these models:
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