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The article provides information on several new products related to computers. Sun Microsystems's Java Teaching Innovations Portal is an online resource designed to help students and teachers incorporate Java technology into their technology programs. The portal features lesson plans, games, special projects, case studies, and introductory presentations created by educators who participated in the Java Grant Program. FileMaker's newest version of its desktop database, FileMaker Pro 8, features a new PDF maker, new e-mail merge, and visual spell checker, as well as autocomplete and mouse-wheel support. Users can customize databases, e-mail field contents from within FileMaker, and import Excel files using the drag-and-drop method. Gateway's new convertible notebook computer with pen, the M280, has a 14-inch wide-screen rotating display, customizable hard drive, and ergonomic hand grip, and can be configured with either a lightweight battery or one that provides as much as 8.5 hours of user time. Discovery Education introduces Digital Discovery, a bimonthly resource guide for educators who use united-streaming in the classroom.

Presents various products related to computer hardware and software. Incorporation of a color and bolder keys in the enhanced TI-73 Explorer from Texas Instruments; Provision of user friendly test management on Windows computers in AptiQuiz from RJ Software; Description of DataPoint, a comprehensive set of web-based software tools for data-driven school improvement from the National Study of School Evaluation.

Focuses on several predominant technology companies and forecasts their growth as of July, 2001. Computer software and services companies, Microsoft, Oracle, and AOL Time Warner; Computer hardware companies, Sun Microsystems, IBM, and EMC; Communications companies, Cisco Systems, Nortel Networks, and Lucent.

The article reports on the sales performance of the top personal computer (PC) retailers in the U.S. in 2010. The top 25 retailers in the country have posted an increase in sales by 12.1 percent in 2010. Tablet computers were the top-selling products in 2010. Some of the top PC retailers in the country include Best Buy, Apple Store, Walmart and Dell.

The article evaluates various handheld devices including Zigbee control solution from Zigbee Alliance, the Mio Modero R-4 remote from AMX and the Mt-1000C MiniTouch from Creston.

This article reports on the financial performance of the top 25 PC retailers according to the periodical This Week in Consumer Electronics (TWICE) as of June 2005. The strong grew stronger in 2004 as Best Buy and Dell increased their dominance as PC retailers, creating an all but insurmountable lead over the nation's other top computer retailers, according to the 2005 TWICE Top 25 PC Retailers report. Total sales for the Top 25 hit $33.6 billion last year, a healthy 10 percent increase for a year that did not experience a spectacular holiday selling season or a breakout hot product like the iPod. This growth was enjoyed by the vast majority of companies on the list with only four seeing a drop in sales last year. Unlike the audio industry, which could attribute growth to iPod sales, and the video business, which had flat-panel television bringing in new customers, the PC category did not have a wow product in 2004. In fact, core product categories like desktop computers, monitors and printers experienced a drop-off in sales, said Stephen Baker, industry analyst at The NPD Group. This was offset by continued strong sales of other products. Baker said there is no question we are still seeing growth in mobile computers and peripherals, and that people simply keep bringing computer products into their homes. INSET: Methodology.

Evaluates the Cakewalk Sonar 4 computer software for sequencing electronic music. Efficiency of the product's comp-track building; Quality of surround effects; Contact information.

Presents several computer interface equipments from Fire Wire. Features of Digi 002 by Digidesign Inc.; Automation of Metric Halo units; Aid of Tascam FW-1884 for desktop musicians who like the Digi 002 design concept. INSET: BEST-LAID PLANS.

Focuses on the use of computers to help make compositional decisions in modern computing and composing music using algorithm. Definition of algorithmic composition; Determination of the how the data that is generated by algorithm is applied; Description of the approaches taken by several representative algorithmic-composition programs on the personal computer.

Reports on the benefits of Microsoft Corp.'s Window's Explorer to desktop musicians in the U.S. Basis of Microsoft's remodeling of Windows; Role of personal computers in professional media production; Impact of fine-tuning systems on the satisfaction of an audio performance.

Evaluates Cecilia 2.04, a sound design computer software developed by Burton and Piché. Distinct features; Various applications; Systems requirements.

Reports on the surge in personal computer (PC) sales in 1999 in the United States. Market share held by online and direct retailers; Impact of Internet service provider rebates on sales; Percent change in sales by type of outlet. INSET: High-Profile PC Vendors Lose Steam.

The article reports on the growth of the tablet computer sector in 2012. It explains that projected sales of media tablets and personal computer (PC)-type tablets will increase by 85 percent, from 68.4 million units sold in 2012 to 126.6 million units. Marketing research companies IHS iSuppli and NPD Group Inc. forecast that tablet sales in 2016 will reach 360.4 million and 375 million units, respectively.

A chart is presented that shows the top 25 personal computer (PC) retailers in the U.S. based on total PC sales in 2009 including Best Buy, Apple Retail Stores and Wal-Mart.

The article highlights the popularity of netbooks in the personal computer (PC) market in the U.S. John Jacobs of Notebook Market Research claims that the shipment volumes for the notebook PC market would have fell 19% without the additional volume coming from netbooks. Chris Wei of Market Intelligence & Consulting Institute (MIC) predicts that netbooks will continue to experience strong growth in 2009. Loren Loverde of IDC says netbooks have minimized the impact of the economic crisis on the PC market.

This article presents a chart of the 2008 TWICE Top 25 PC Retailers in the U.S., including Best Buy, Wal-Mart and Office Depot.

Focuses on planned product releases of personal computer accessories suppliers at the 2000 International Consumer Electronics Show. Features of the new models; Suggested retail prices; High rates of household penetration for computers.

The article discusses the ways of public learning including blogs, wikis, and podcasts. The author cited that through this approach of putting the learning can be daunting and challenging. He further notes that these youthful indiscretions are not new, the public and global spotlight on them has evolved far beyond what existed. The author stresses that these incidents will continue to increase no matter how hard they try to warn it, and tools made it too easy just as a click of a cellular telephone camera and its post to electronic mail messages, MySpace, or YouTube.

The article discusses several stages on how to start a Personal Learning Network (PLN), how to monitor it, and to learn on how to shut it off. First is the creation of networks where there are people and ideas to connect, with this, collaborations and connections take off. Next is the evaluation of the networks to focus in time and the sense of urgency to figure out a way to know it all. Then, spend many hours trying to be connected to the point of learning everything, and start to put life into perspective. Finally, find a balance between learning and living, understanding that one cannot know it all and begin to understand in believing oneself.

The article discusses Dell company's commitment for service. It provides the company's solutions to various IT problems commonly encountered by customers. Choosing Dell as a smart partner in IT problems offers the most simplified but effective solutions for organizations who are looking for expertise and accountability. Technology implementation at Dell assures of relevant and customized IT solutions than any organization deserves. The long-term and short-term goals of Dell means focusing on understanding and helping out your company for every IT solution you need.

The article presents information on several software product releases. Harcourt Assessment Corp. has released the Early Childhood Observation System, a student assessment program designed to evaluate younger learners. Summit Interactive introduces the Ascend Math Solution, designed for grade four through adult learners, uses streaming video to provide direct instruction. Plato has introduced Foundational Mathematics and Earth and Space Science for the middle school audience. Foundational Mathematics is designed to bring remedial math learners and the Earth and Space Science is for the final curriculum installment in the Plato Middle School Science Series. A new software product from FarStone, VirtualClass, uses a district's LAN to enable teachers to broadcast their desktops to 16 computers at once.

Presents information on web sites dedicated to networking without wires. Statistics of wireless usage and projections in the U.S.; Information provided in the September 2002 online report, 'Wireless Networking in Schools: A Decision Making Guide for School leaders,' published by the British Educational Communications and Technology Agency.

Reports on the fall 1999 Comdex Computer Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. Themes of the exhibition; Key speakers; Programs of activities; Product offerings from various vendors.

Discusses what free computers actually cost consumers. Associated costs of a free computer from InterSquid; Comparison of the free-computer marketplace with that of the wire-less telephone industry's free handsets; A list of some of the best personal computer giveaways that are available as of summer 1999.

Discusses the two disparate cultures at computer-printer giant Hewlett-Packard (HP). Market value of HP; How HP stock has been struggling; HP's decision in early March 1999 to sever the noncomputer side of the business; How HP hopes to carve out a slice of Internet-related business.

Reports on several developments in the computer industry. Free AIDS software from Inner Action Corporation; Change in the pricing of Compton's Interactive Encyclopedia software for Windows and Macintosh; Merging of Electronic Arts and Broderbund Software; Licensing agreement between Davidson & Associates, Inc. and Fisher-Price, Inc.; Opening of Epcot Discovery center.

Reports on Compaq Computer's aggressive competition for market share in computer manufacturing. Competitive pricing strategy of the company; Sales and income performance; Increase in stock price; Investment plans; Product diversity and technology; Consolidation among computer manufacturers as emerging issue in the industry.

The article lists the comments on the 2008 NEC Conference by several attendees including by Carla Beard, Craig Nansen, and Judy Robinson.

The article offers information on NEC Conference 2008 in San Antonio, Texas.

The article focuses on the reported $14-billion acquisition of Electronic Data Systems by Hewlett-Packard (HP). According to the article, it will take a year or two to integrate the companies' operations, but long term, the businesses are a good fit. The projected earnings per share of HP for 2008 is $3.57 and $3.98 for 2009.

The article offers information on the donation of DreamSpark computer development tool from Microsoft to the students at Stanford University in the United States. Bill Gates approved the donation in an effort to encourage creative programming among the students, and possibly introducing the young minds of students to careers in software engineering. The strategy in Microsoft's move could mean a long-term result, when the students are in the workplace. DreamSpark features open-source tools for software programming.

The article evaluates the KnowledgeWEB System from COMWEB Technology Group, Mobile LINK System from Applied Computer Systems Inc. and SmartClass/SmartCC Plug & Play from Robotel Inc.

The article offers tips, from the Dell Computer Corp. experts, on assessment, design, and implementation of a systems management services. It notes that assessments are designed to help make informed decisions about how to maximize the benefits of integrated systems management solutions in the computer system management. It reports that design services lay the path for success by providing a comprehensive and detailed systems management and implementation plan. It suggests that the Dell's experts can implement a comprehensive systems management solution, featuring a carefully design pilots and knowledge transfer efficiencies that will be useful efficiently administer the system.

The article discusses the growth of two leading computer companies Apple Inc. and Microsoft Corp. According to reports, Apple shares have risen more than 1,200% in the past 4 years to a recent $97, and they trade for 32 times expected calendar 2007 earnings of $3.03 per share while Microsoft's shares have done little for five years. Apple Inc., will introduce a product that combines an iPod and a cell phone. Microsoft's new-product features updates of Office and the Windows operating system.

The article presents information regarding the need of pentop computers. It informs that if the computing power can be crammed into smaller spaces then the result can be this. One can use pen as a computer. The author gives certain example for this. He refers the pen-like gadgets produced by Wizcom, which look a bit more like box-bodied than ballpoint pens. Another example is the ReadingPen, which can read the words drag it over a word, phrase or even a line on a printed page. A Quicktionary pen can translate English to more than a dozen foreign languages. It is able to scan words or phrases in French. The author mentions that if a student can access to such computers it will change the world of education. While reading an ancient book such computer pens will help them to decipher the meaning and even translate a foreign book to their own language. The article informs about the attempt of Techno-toymaker Leap Frog when they introduce an even snazzier gadget. It also informs so many possibilities of pen computers and emphasize on the need for more experiments on this.

The article presents information on several Web site resources related to education. It introduces a web based reading and language arts program for K-8 learners titled "Kid's College" by Learning Through Sports, which features live action and realistic visuals. Another web resource is from Thomson Gale, which includes more current information than available in the text book and provides assistance to the students in the United States to perform better on standardized tests. Historyplayer.com is an interactive history e-zine, which provides an interactive approach to learning about history. EBSCO has released its web resource titled "Kids Search", a search engine designed for K-6 researchers. It allows the users to search topic, subtopic and the keywords.

The article presents questions and answers related to computer software. One reader asks how he/she can track the information about the people who visit his/her school's Web site. The expert suggests a free website, which provides these facilities. Another question is about the quick and painless fixing of the Remote Desktop option. The expert comments that the reader can use a free VNC software program to remotely connect to another computer, even if it is running an operating system sans Microsoft Remote Desktop.

The article presents lists of computer software products selected by Technology & Learning readers that includes AppleWorks from Claris Corp., PowerPoint from Microsoft Corp., JumpStart series from Knowledge Adventure Inc., and Magic Slate from Sunburst Co.

Evaluates the computer mice Mighty Mouse from Apple Computer Inc. System requirements; Pros and cons of the product; Price.

Reports on the growth of the iPod digital music system from Apple Computer in 2004. Effect of the growth of iPod on the stock of the company; Projected status of the overall market for the product in 2005; Outlook on the growth of the company in 2005.

This article presents tips for coming to terms with vendors in the computer industry. Vendors usually issue the same boilerplate contract to their customers, with a few minor alterations such as district name and number of school sites. Retain a technology attorney to work through one major contract together. When negotiating a district's student management system contract, it is suggested to turn to a lawyer who specializes in tech issues. According to the author, if you are using a Web-based application service provider, guarantee in writing that your data is backed up regularly and will be made available, along with the software code, if the vendor goes out of business or is sold. It may be expensive for a district to maintain the code, but at least you'll have an option. Boilerplate contracts typically stipulate any legal actions and proceedings must occur in the vendor's home state. Since you'd rather have a jury of community members hearing your claim, include a provision that ensures any legal cases are tried in state. Advice on adjusting billing terms was given. To guarantee success, it is wise to negotiate 10 percent of the payment will be held back until the software is fully implemented, not simply installed.

Evaluates two computer software. NetCache and ContentReporter network management applications from Network Appliance; Sun Java Desktop System open standards-based solution from Sun Microsystems.

This article presents information on the data visualization software Grokker. Grokker offers some relief for users looking to quickly retrieve pertinent information from the World Wide Web and other digital resources. The software groups search results pages according to content, then maps them into concentric spheres based on their relative importance. For example, a search on King Arthur produces spheres labeled myth, histories, and musicals. Students can click on the most relevant spheres, and continue clinking until they drill all the way down to the individual list sites they need. Maps can also be edited, saved, and shared via-email, offering teachers a great way to quickly guide students to important Web sites or files.

Presents steps in defragmenting computers. Selection of a defragging software program; Enhancements included in commercially available defragging programs; Ways to run the chosen program.

Looks at the effects of Banias, a microprocessor that enables Intel chips designed exclusively for laptop computers to save battery energy. Increased battery life; Use of Banias by Dell, Hewlett-Packard, and Toshiba models; Prices of brand-name notebook computers.

Reports on the strategic planning of Compaq/Hewlett-Packard firm in the U.S. Changes in the company due to the merger; Combination of ideas toward product innovation; Amount allocated for the firm's research and development.

Evaluates Apple Computer retail outlets in the United States. Location of the stores; Merchandise that is available at the stores; Plans for additional locations.

Reviews the iPaq Pocket personal computer from Compaq. Comparison to the Palm Pilot computer; Additional features of the iPaq, including a digital music player, Web browser, and mapping software; Price.

Reports developments related to the computer industry in the United States as of August 2000. Court ruling on the Child Online Protection Act; Webby award received by Merriam-Webster Word Central in the category of education; Utilization of computers for leverage thinking and imagination.

Examines the financial outlook for Apple Computer as of October 1999. How much its stock has risen since October 1998; The failure of its strategy of selling fewer but more-profitable personal computers; How the iMac has resurrected Apple; Efforts to stimulate sales.