News Week of October 8, 2006

Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada Selects Skura Corporation To Partner in an Innovative Initiative for the Novartis Sales Force

Skura Corporation, the leader in software solutions for Closed-Loop Marketing in the Life Sciences industry, is partnering with Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada in an innovative initiative to dramatically improve the work-life balance of their Canadian Oncology sales force. SFX Viewer, running on Tablet PC technology, is being deployed to improve the work-life "experience" of sales representatives. SFX Viewer, a complete and proven software solution, is the leading product on the market that allows sales representatives to eDetail Physicians with "on message" multimedia presentations.

Skura Closed-Loop Marketing is the most advanced sales/marketing "business process" that enables Life Sciences manufacturers to eDetail the right physician, with the right multimedia message, at the right time. Work-life conditions are improved, as well as sales force retention levels, including several other efficiencies that result in a visible ROI. Please visit www.skura.com for more information.

"Skura Corporation was chosen because of their demonstrated experience and domain expertise with Oracle/Siebel CRM systems," said Alain Dostie, Director of Sales, Oncology, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada. "eDetailing solutions, like SFX Viewer, need to work together with Oracle as one system. In addition, we wanted a system that was easy to use by the sales force and that provides the ability to quickly load files, such as new marketing material and medical reprints. Of equal importance, our creative agencies require a software platform that is 'user friendly' in order to integrate creative content easily to deliver 'customized' presentations based on the latest data provided by our Oracle/Siebel CRM system."

"We are very pleased that Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada decided to partner with Skura on this initiative," said Jeff Wessinger, President, Skura Products Division. "This will have a positive impact on its sales force, as well as the satisfaction level of the physicians visited, which ultimately results in improved sales effectiveness."   (Source: Press Release)

New convertible notebooks: Bigger and better

For example, the new Toshiba R25-S3503 ($1,300) is a great middle-of-the-road notebook computer that not only delivers great sound and graphics, but offers something the others you'll see here don't: It flips its top to become a tablet PC. 

The latest in a line of "convertible" notebooks offered by major manufacturers, this new Toshiba gives you the best of both worlds. It can be used as a high-end multimedia computer or you can flip and twist its 14.1-inch widescreen display to sit atop its keyboard and use it as a tablet PC to take notes in class, jot down shopping lists or anything else you'd do with pen and paper.

On the downside, the biggest objections I have are its weight (a hefty 6 pounds - 7 with the power supply), and the screen tends to wobble a bit when in tablet mode. This isn't a computer you'd want to lug all over campus on a daily basis.   (Source: MIKE BERMAN, Redding.com)

4 technologies for working smarter

Students with tablet PCs don't need paper text books any more, because texts can be stored on the tablets in PDF, or portable document format. Students who miss a class due to illness can download assignments into their tablets from home.

triPRACTIX Develops Portal for Physicians Using Juniper Networks Security Platforms

Leading Medical Systems Integrator Uses Juniper SSL VPN, Integrated Firewall/ IPsec VPN and NetScreen Security Manager to Securely Deliver Anytime, Anywhere Access

SUNNYVALE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Juniper Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ:JNPR) today announced that triPRACTIX, a leading medical systems integrator based in Fort Wayne, IN, has deployed the Juniper Networks Secure Access SSL VPN, integrated firewall/IPsec VPN, and NetScreen Security Manager to create a secure, multi-state portal that provides accurate anytime, anywhere access to medical information for physicians throughout Northeastern Indiana. Using a simple tablet PC, doctors using the triPRACTIX broadband network can now take advantage of Juniper’s security platforms to exchange information such as medical records and lab results, while securely accessing various medical applications.

“It’s a distinct competitive advantage for our company to offer all of the applications a physician office uses in one portal. However, with the legal ramifications of HIPAA looming over their heads, the ability for our clients to use these applications securely was paramount,” said Todd Plesko, CEO of triPRACTIX. “This architecture gives our clients the ability to control security and to explicitly say who they want coming into their network, thus satisfying both requirements. That’s a tremendous advantage for them and us.”

triPRACTIX uses the Juniper Networks Secure Access 4000 (SA4000) SSL VPN to deliver secure connectivity to the company’s myTPX.com resource portal, which provides the company’s physician customers with anytime, anywhere access to a variety of data. The myTPX.com delivers access to email, Electronic Medical Records (EMR), PACS (digital radiology), Practice Management (billing and scheduling), as well as other relevant documents. It also allows triPRACTIX’s customers to enter cases into the company’s CRM system.

Because the SSL VPN provides clientless access (no hardware or software downloads to be installed on the individual computer), users can access applications anytime, anywhere with a standard Web browser. For triPRACTIX, using the SSL VPN eliminates the need to spend months negotiating complex connection agreements with hospitals on behalf of its physician clients. The SSL VPN also provides granular access and auditing capabilities, which are key for compliance.

triPRACTIX also uses a broad range of Juniper Networks integrated firewall/IPSec VPNs, including the NetScreen-208, -50, -25, and -5GTs. The firewall/IPsec VPNs provide strong access control, user authentication and application-level attack prevention throughout triPRACTIX’s entire broadband network. Combining stateful firewall, deep inspection and Web filtering to deliver an integrated security solution, the Juniper Networks NetScreen appliances are ideal for branch offices that access a central network.

“The triPRACTIX deployment is an ideal example of how Juniper security platforms meet the stringent requirements of the healthcare market while also providing the connectivity medical practitioners need to do their jobs,” said Stephen Phillip, senior director of Product Marketing at Juniper Networks. “By securing the network at all layers, Juniper allows businesses to access information and data that allow medical practitioners to provide pervasive point-of-care by giving them complete information access from anywhere.”   (Source: Press Release)

PhatWare Announces PhatPad 4.0 Beta Availability

Upgraded software gives mobile users support for typed text in addition to digital ink, document security, templates, improved inking on Tablet PC devices and more

PhatWare Corporation, a leading provider of software products and professional services for mobile and desktop computers, announces today the Beta availability of PhatPad 4.0, the next generation of the company's award-winning notes organizer for Microsoft Windows-based devices, Tablet and Desktop PCs. PhatPad 4.0 is available immediately to consumers for Beta testing, and PhatWare welcomes user participation and feedback.

PhatPad allows users to draw pictures, jot text notes or put a mixture of pictures and typed text on a virtual scratch pad. The program uses new digital ink technology, which provides a very smooth ink flow, so it feels like writing on an actual piece of paper. While working with the note editor, PhatPad offers standard editing commands, such as Cut, Copy and Paste in addition to a customizable pen palette and variable pen width.

The upgraded software includes a number of new features such as support for typed text in addition to digital ink, improved inking on Tablet PCs and UMPCs, Office 2007-like user interface, document templates, and password-protection with 256-bit strong encryption.

"We are pleased to unveil PhatPad 4.0 for Beta testing, as user feedback is a key component to the developments we make," said PhatWare President Stan Miasnikov. "PhatPad 4.0 will keep PhatWare on the forefront of Microsoft Windows-based devices, Tablet and Desktop PC technology, and we look forward to the testers' responses."

The application works on Windows Mobile-based Pocket PC 2003 or later devices and Tablet, Desktop and UMPCs with Windows 2000 SP3 or later including Windows Vista RC1 Build 5728 or later with Windows Mobile Device Center component. To participate in the PhatPad 4.0 Beta Program, visit www.phatware.com/phatpad/beta4 and follow the instructions on the Web site. The final release of PhatPad 4.0 is expected in December 2006.   (Source: Press Release)

HP Invents - PC Concept & Design Innovation Tour

Xplore Technologies Demonstrates Mobile Rugged Tablet PC Mounted in New Bristol RI PD Vehicle at IACP 2006

AUSTIN, TX, Oct. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -Xplore Technologies® Corp. (TSX:XPL - News), a leading provider of rugged Tablet PCs worldwide, will be demonstrating their durable mobile computer products in Boston, October 15-17 at IACP 2006 in booth number 1572.
 
Xplore's booth will feature a rugged vehicle mount iX104 Tablet PC in one of Bristol Rhode Island Police Department's new squad cars. Xplore's rugged Tablet PC is being deployed by the Bristol RI PD to help access critical information faster and create a more efficient work environment.

Xplore offers innovative rugged mobile computers for the public safety market to aid in decreasing reliance on paper reports, remote and faster access to critical information and lower total cost of ownership. Xplore's unique AllVue feature allows users to view the screen in direct sunlight which was a major complaint with most mobile computers in field applications. Xplore's products also have auto-sensing technology so users can switch from using pen to finger-based touch input, without having to push a button.

Xplore's complete line of Rugged Tablet PC incorporates integrated wireless capabilities, durable magnesium alloy housings, shock mounted hard drives, enhanced XGA displays, fast Intel processors and onboard ports for expansion. These award-winning tablets are highly flexible and can be mounted in numerous configurations to meet the customers' specific needs including in vehicles, on mobile carts to forklifts. These products are built to operate in physically demanding environments and will withstand exposure to vibration, extreme temperatures, moisture, dust or drops to concrete.

For more details regarding Xplore Technologies and their products, visit www.xploretech.com or email info@xploretech.com.  (Source: Press Release)

EverNote Plus 1.5 Introduces Synchronization

The EverNote Corporation is proud to announce that we have launched EverNote Plus 1.5 for Windows, an improved, faster version of our popular Windows software.

For a limited time, until October 31, we would like to offer you an exclusive 25% discount to purchase EverNote Plus for just $29.95:

You can access your limited-time promotion here: http://www.evernote.com/en/store/?promo=enup15

New features of EverNote 1.5 include:
 - Synchronization of EverNote databases with removable media (i.e. USB flash drives) and between multiple PCs via a removable media.
 - Additional capturing capabilities - Outlook Clipper button and right-click 'Add to EverNote' commands for Outlook and Thunderbird.
 - Drag-and-drop notes to select Categories, transfer notes between EverNote databases and links to notes from other applications.
 - Transferring notes via Instant Messenging applications.
 - Ability to open multiple databases in separate windows.
 - Password protection for the entire EverNote database.
 - Shortcuts for creating new notes by pressing INS and ESC+INS keys.
 - Exporting notes into TXT and HTM formats.
 - And much more...

 - What's New in 1.5: http://www.evernote.com/en/products/evernote/new-features.php
 - Product Info: http://www.evernote.com/en/products/evernote/
 - Downloads Page: http://www.evernote.com/en/downloads/

You can access your limited-time promotion here: http://www.evernote.com/en/store/?promo=enup15

Please note: EverNote comes with an auto-upgrade mechanism - and it should offer you to upgrade to a new version. If it does not - please click on Help->Check for Update, or contact us. If you are an EverNote Plus owner - you are entitled to a free upgrade to version 1.5.

We hope you enjoy the newest shipping addition to our family of products!  (Source: Press Release)

TabletKiosk Roadshow Coming

The TabletKiosk team is joining forces with Apex Software to sponsor four roadshows held in conjunction with the Apex CE Training Seminars.

The TabletKiosk Demo Days Roadshow is open to all UMPC enthusiasts, Windows® XP Tablet Edition fans and TabletKiosk customers. Please join us for these hands-on seminars where you will have the opportunity to see and try out the full line of TabletKiosk products, chat with members of the TabletKiosk team and meet some of your fellow Tablet PC and UMPC enthusiasts. In addition, all attendees will have the opportunity to win a $300 gift certificate to the TabletKiosk.com web store.

Locations:

Anaheim, CA
Thursday, October 19 5:30 - 7:30 PM   Register
   
Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Thursday, November 2 5:30 - 7:30 PM   Register

Orlando, FL
Thursday, November 9 5:30 - 7:30 PM   Register
   
Houston, TX
Thursday, November 30 5:30 - 7:30 PM   Register
(Source: Press Release)

ASUS R1F Tablet PC user review


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So here I am with my ASUS R1F convertible Tablet PC, purchased a week ago (waited 1 week for supplier delivery, pretty fast for a notebook just released). I got AUD$400 off RRP - which is not unusual as many online stores have the R1F advertised at similar prices. Why the price is already so low from RRP is beyond me - I simply asked the shop to match prices advertised by other web-based vendors. They were more than happy to oblige. I also got an extra 1GB of RAM at cost (Kingston). I might as well note here now that the R1 is fitted with 2x512Mb RAM, so both available slots are already taken. This means if you want to have 2GB of RAM you will need to buy 2 brand new sticks of RAM (1GB each) and sell the 512MB sticks that came preinstalled, unless you have use for them elsewhere. I was lucky as the shop I went to didn't charge me extra for swapping the two 512 modules for a single 1GB module, despite the fact that there would have been at least AUD$80 difference to pay (512MB are significantly cheaper).

In this review, I'll give you my full, honest and unbiased opinions of the R1F Tablet PC. I myself rely so much on reviews before purchasing. I am not an IT guy, just a regular guy so hopefully you can appreciate my comments.(Source:  supernova, TabletPCReviewSpot.com)
Posted Monday, October 9, 2006 by ChrisD
Rating: 3.21 (Rate it) 1 Lowest 2 3 4 5 Highest Comments (0)

Agilix Launches New Distributed Learning Platform

Agilix GoCourse(TM) Enables Rapid Development of Partner-Branded Distributed Learning Applications

    OREM, Utah, Oct. 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Agilix Labs, Inc., a worldwide leader in distributed learning software, today announced the release of Agilix GoCourse, which enables rapid development of partner-branded distributed learning applications.
    Distributed learning applications get around limitations of web-based learning management (LMS) and course management systems (CMS) that require a network connection. Distributed learning enables the important components of an LMS/CMS infrastructure to be distributed where it needs to be, when it needs to be, so that users can continue their learning and education anytime, anywhere. Whether it is reviewing for an exam, continuing a SCORM-based course, responding to a discussion thread, viewing a recording of today's missed class or grading digitally turned-in assignments without the need for network access, distributed learning extends the usefulness and scope of today's e-learning systems.
    Agilix GoCourse is designed to be tailored to work with many LMS and CMS solutions in the market today. Agilix developers use Agilix GoCourse to rapidly deploy partner-branded distributed learning applications that are resold by partners directly to their customers.
    "Distributed learning takes LMS and CMS systems to a new level," says Curt Allen, President and CEO of Agilix. "Agilix GoCourse is the first distributed learning application that can quickly be tailored to work with many different LMS and CMS systems, including proprietary ones. For example, we used Agilix GoCourse to rapidly build the new release of Blackboard Backpack for Blackboard and EPIC for Early College."
    "We are excited about our partnership with Agilix, and the introduction of Agilix GoCourse," said Mark Resmer, CTO for Early College. "Agilix built our EPIC solution quickly and efficiently using the Agilix GoCourse platform after receiving our product specification. We now have a state-of-the-art distributed learning application that is in a class by itself and fully integrated with our CMS system partner, eCollege."
    Agilix GoCourse
    Agilix GoCourse is a suite of components that enable rapid development of distributed learning applications. The components support downloading and uploading learning objects from LMS and CMS systems, including content, asynchronous collaboration, assignments, assessments and grades. The developed application can also support a number of learning productivity tools based on the needs of the target user. This includes rich-text note-taking, a certified print driver to capture any web page, Word document, PowerPoint, PDF or other application file into a GoCourse note page, upon which a user can annotate, highlight and take notes. All downloaded content, personal notes and captured documents can be searched using the GoCourse search engine. And personal planning tools facilitate managing assignments and schedules. GoCourse is optimized for computers that use Intel(R) Core(TM) Duo processors.
    Blackboard Backpack
    Blackboard Backpack(TM) is a distributed learning application for
education institutions that use the Blackboard Academic Suite(R) -- currently in use by 3,500 university and college campuses worldwide. The application enables students to download Blackboard-stored course content, including course information, course documents, grades, assignments and calendar content, for access anytime, anywhere. The latest version of Blackboard Backpack was built using Agilix GoCourse and was released on August 1, 2006. Support for Blackboard Backpack is built into Blackboard 7.0 and 7.1. Backpack has been downloaded by over 20,000 students from 31 countries. The Agilix-developed Blackboard Backpack is marketed and sold by Blackboard directly to its education institution customers and to students at those institutions.
    Early College EPIC
    Agilix developed the EPIC distributed learning application for Early ollege in less than four months from start to finish. The application nables students to synchronize Early College's multimedia course content, esson guides, assessments, including test results. In addition, EPIC sores student's digital notes, manages their calendar and allows students to search everything in their database. EPIC is bundled with the Early College product solution and is marketed and sold directly by Early College.
    Price and Availability
    Agilix GoCourse is available now for custom development. OEM pricing is based on functionality of the solution along with volume projections. The product is targeted to OEMs, integrators, ISVs and large organizations. To learn more about Agilix GoCourse, visit http://www.agilix.com.  (Source: Press Release)
Posted Monday, October 9, 2006 by ChrisD
Rating: 3.09 (Rate it) 1 Lowest 2 3 4 5 Highest Comments (0)

Make Me Mobile with Motion

Well, we mentioned a BIGGIE contest, and trust me, this one IS big!!!  But it is also small --  but wait, don't get confused quite yet.

How about getting in "Motion" with a Motion Computing LS800 Ultra Mobile Tablet PC?  In a partnership to help us launch the new GottaBeMobile.com discussion forums, Motion Computing has stepped up to the plate big time and is sponsoring a contest and putting up a brand new LS800 Ultra Mobile Tablet PC as a prize in our "Make Me Mobile with Motion" contest!  Do I hear wild screams of delight out there?  Yes, I think I do!

Here's how to win.  Put together a creative 800-1000 word essay for us on how adding a Motion LS800 to your life will make you more mobile and enhance your personal and/or professional life.  Better yet, you ought to include BOTH aspects of life.  When we say be creative, we mean VERY creative.  For an LS800 prize valued at almost $2,200, you should be willing to work for it!  Besides the essay, the use of creative art, video, pictures, whatever you can come up with will be considered within reason, but remember the main concern will be on how this device would influence your life in a positive way.  We reserve the right to refuse anything too big or wild.  Just remember that the emphasis will be on the essay.  (Source: Press Release)