PCR - October 2010 -Issue 85

COMPUTER & IT RESELLERS • RETAILERS • SYSTEM BUILDERS • DISTRIBUTORS • VENDORS OCTOBER 2010 ISSUE 85

PCR

HA

RD

WA

RE

· SOFT

WA

RE

· CO

NSU

ME

R E

LEC

TR

ON

ICS

ww

w.p

cr-o

nlin

e.b

iz

HOW TO WIN APCR AWARDISSU

E 8

5 O

CT

OB

ER

20

10

We bring you a foolproofguide to the nomination andselection process

p17

Home users want protection that delivers more and asks less.

AVVG 220111 is yoouur neww aansswwwer

DDiscovver mmore rright now aatwwww.avg.cco.ukk/reseellerr

simple and fast”protection

“I want great

that’s

Rated #1 for threat detection by independent testing labs1

One of the fastest scanning speeds available2

Easy to install and use

Home users want...

Protection that does its job brilliantly

Protection that won’t interrupt them

Protection that won’t slow them down

Protection they can live with

AVG 2011 answers...

NEW AVG Protective Cloud Technology converts 110 million AVG users into an advanced, global early-warning system

NEW AVG Smart Scanning only scans when the PC isn’t being used and scans 3 x faster than V.9

Engineered to be AVG’s leanest, lightest, most effi cient protection ever

Intuitive, easy and automated. AVG 2011 asks less of the user and delivers more protection in return

1 AVG Internet Security was rated Number 1 in threat detection by AV-Test Org May-August 2010. 2 Our malware scanning engines are among the fastest in the industry, however all security software uses memory and processor power and can therefore result in slower system performance.

COMMENT

October PCR 3

TRADE HEROES ON THURSDAY MARCH 17TH next year, the fourth PCR

Awards will open is doors – this time at new venue, the

Lancaster London. Many things have changed since we

launched the event in 2007. Suddenly everything has a touch

screen, Apple has clocked a stronger share value than

Microsoft, every tech company under the sun is trying to

resurrect the 3D concept, and Intel is taking a break from its

war with AMD to turn its attention to the security market.

All this is why the technology industry is such an exciting

and dynamic area to be involved in. You have to be on your

toes, or the whole game transforms behind your back.

However one thing that never changes is the industry's

desire to celebrate the successes of the people who make it

all happen.

The core of the awards remains the same as when it was

first conceived – a focused celebration of the UK

technology industry and channel, which also takes in every

part of the trade.

The PCR Awards have always been about the people

themselves – the community that keeps the cogs of the UK

channel turning – about their efforts and ingenuity,

especially in the difficult market conditions we have seen

over the last couple of years.

We've kept the categories for the 2011 event the same,

having received positive reactions from the trade last year.

The awards will be split into three categories – Frontline,

Distribution and Vendor, along with the most prestigious

prize of the night, the Grand Prix.

But we can't do it without your help. Lobbying is now

open, so let us know who you think should be a finalist and

why. For a full rundown of how the nomination, lobbying

and voting process works, take a look at our exhaustive How

To Win A PCR Award feature on page 17.

You have until Friday November 26th to get your

nominations in – email them to me on the address provided

below. You've got to be in it to win it…

Andrew Wooden, Editor

[email protected] Media is a member of the Periodical Publishers Associations

PCR is published 12 times a year by Intent Media - SaxonHouse, 6a St.Andrew Street, Hertford, Hertfordshire SG141JA Fax: +44 (0)1992 535648. © Intent Media 2010 Nopart of this publication may be reproduced in any form orby any means without prior permission of the copyrightowners. Printed by Pensord.

SUBSCRIPTIONS UK£50 Europe: £60 Rest of World: £90. The internationalcost applies per subscription and covers airmail dispatch of12 issues. To order your subscription via Visa, MasterCard,Amex Switch or Delta contact: [email protected] or call 01580 883848.Alternatively visit our website www.pcr-online.biz

Subscriptions Manager:Hannah Short, [email protected]

PCR - Total average monthly net circulation for January 1st to December 31st 2009: 11,443

“The core of the PCR Awardsremains the same – acelebration of the UKtechnology industry.”

Issue 85October 2010

Incorporating

PCR CONTACTS

EditorAndrew [email protected]

Staff WriterMatt Grainger [email protected]

Staff WriterNicky [email protected]

Editorial Production ManagerHelen [email protected]

Managing EditorLisa [email protected]

Executive Advertising ManagerKatie [email protected]

Sales ExecutiveCarly [email protected]

Production ExecutiveRosie [email protected]

Designer Kelly [email protected]

PublisherStuart Dinsey [email protected]

Marketing & CirculationLindsay [email protected]

Editorial: 01992 535646 Advertising: 01992 535647www.pcr-online.biz

member

Security and surveillance monitors and solutions from Midwich

audio visual • barcode solutions • consumables • consum

er electronics • copy/print/scan/fax • digital imaging • digital signage • hi-technology • large form

at displays • security solutions • tft displays • which lam

ps • whichm

ounts

Terms & Conditions: Prices are trade and exclude carriage and VAT. Prices are correct at time of publication, please confirm at time of ordering. E&OE. All transactions are in accordance with our full terms and conditions, a copy of which is available upon request. All trademarks are the property of their respective manufacturers. Your calls may be recorded for training or demonstration purposes. Copyright © Midwich Limited 2010. Midwich Limited, Vinces Road, Diss, Norfolk IP22 4YT. Job Number: 0723-Q4-10.

+ SECURITY DIVISION

Ideal for demanding CCTV applications

This 19-inch LCD display from iiyama has a 5ms response time and 1000:1 contrast ratio for producing clear and vivid images when they are needed most. This monitor is VESA compliant to allow for easy installation in any surveillance and security environment.

Comes with a 2-year on-site warranty

IIYC1911SB

Only £240 trade

Add a single arm desk mount for only £60 trade - BTEBT7372

Durable monitors for the surveillance market

AG Neovo has a range of monitors that are suited for the security and surveillance market. The SX series have a strong metal casing and NeoV optical glass to protect them from day-to-day usage. They also have looping video inputs for multiple connections and quick signalling single switching time, which are essential for security and surveillance environments.

Available in:15, 17 and 19-inches

AGSX15A, AGSX17A, AGSX19P

From only £260 trade

Add a full motion desk mount for only £90 trade - BTEBT7383

Midwich now has a NEW security division. Ubqiz is a trade only distributor of security products based in the UK. With a respected and proven track record of working with installers and integrators, Ubiqz provides comprehensive solutions in both Analogue and IP security.

For more information contact Ubiqz direct on 020 8340 3777 or contact your Midwich account manager.

For more information about these monitors call the Midwich sales team on:

or visit www.midwich.com

CometHead of marketing Bill Moirtakes us through the chain’srecent brand refresh and itsplans for the future .............28

Ingram Micro ShowcasePCR talks to the distributiongiant about what visitors canexpect from its unilateral trade

show................................30

ISSUE 85OCTOBER 2010

www.pcr-online.biz October PCR 5

PCRContents

MARKETPLACE MP NEWS 96 | PCR RECOMMENDED 119 | OUT OF OFFICE 120

RETAIL FOCUS FRONTLINE 36 | MYSTERY SHOPPER 40 | INDIE PROFILE 39

DisplaysIndustry experts tell us what’s new in thePC monitor market, and just how big 3Dtechnology is set to become

Digital storage ..........................47We bring you some of the latest memoryproducts, from USB sticks to cloud storage

MeroncourtPCR talks to thedistributor’s salesdirector SteveWalsh about thehistory of thecompany and howit goes aboutchoosing vendors........................61

Security softwareWith cyber attacks of all kinds on the rise,protecting your PC is more importantthan ever. We talk to leading vendors tofind out what’s new

GamesA rundown of the best-selling PC titles ofthe moment, along with a guide to themost promising games on the radar .....79

E-readersPCR looks into the latest generation of e-readers and finds there is much moreto the sector than just the Kindle

New iPodsFollowing Apple’sbig launch lastmonth, we checkout its latest line ofMP3 players to seewhat’s new....................90

PSA Parts ........................................92Sales manager Nick Walsh discusses thefirm’s plans for global expansion

857155

Consumer ElectronicsPages 83 - 94

HardwarePages 45 - 68

SoftwarePages 69 - 82

How to win a PCR AwardWe tell you everything you need to know about the event,from how to nominate to who decides the winners

REGULARS

News ......................7

Appointments .....98

Brigantia ............102

TCA ........................106

17

THREE of the biggest names in PCsecurity have come out in defence oftheir trade, following furtheraccusations from Intel that softwarealone is no longer able to handle thethreats of the modern age.

The hugely wealthy chip giant raisedalarm bells within the sector after itsacquisition of security specialistMcAfee in August, announcing that itwould be moving into the market, andclaiming that the current offering“does not fully address” the dangers.

“Standalone software services havealways been broken or bypassed sooneror later, so providing hardware solutionsto work with software is the best way todeal with security,” Intel’s generalmanager for anti-theft services AnandPashupathy told PCR this month.

With Intel looking ready to park itstanks on the lawns of vendors such asKaspersky Lab, the Russian firm’ssenior security researcher David Emmtold us: “We believe that IT security isa specialised business and that

specialised vendors, whose primaryfocus is in securing IT systems againstmalicious code threats via any networkwill succeed in the long run.”

His words were echoed bySymantec’s Norton product marketing

director for EMEA, Con Mallon:“Security is all about a changing threatlandscape and the ability to be agileand nimble to respond in an effectiveand appropriate timescale. Althoughwe do the job of security quietly and

discreetly in the eyes of the user,security software will always have afront and centre profile in anyinternet connected platform.”

BitDefender’s sales director for theUK and Ireland Simon Geach warned

that Intel might have difficultyestablishing itself in what is already avery competitive marketplace.

“Choice, trust, functionality andcost will still impact the choices madeby a consumer to protect theirsystems,” he commented. “Protecting achipset or protecting a device withthat chipset has been done before withlimited success. It still leaves acomputer vulnerable if the protectionisn’t good enough or doesn’t offer thefunctionality that a consumer wants orknows how to use.”

Meanwhile, Intel’s Pashupathy toldPCR it will be leveraging itsconsiderable financial muscle towardsmore than just anti-theft initiatives:“There are multiple areas of securitythat Intel is looking at from a strategicpoint of view. This new anti-thefttechnology is just the beginning.”

Kaspersky Lab, Norton and BitDefender rally around a security sector which Intel claims is not fit forpurpose � Chip giant hints at further moves on the market following its acquisition of McAfee

By Matt Grainger

SIGN UP FOR THE PCR NEWSFLASH SERVICE AT WWW.PCR-ONLINE.BIZ NEWS

“Protecting a chipset or a device with that chipsethas been done before with limited success. It still

leaves a computer vulnerable if the protection isn’tgood enough or doesn’t offer the functionality that

a consumer wants or knows how to use.”Simon Geach, BitDefender


Security giants circle wagonsas Intel readies market assault

3D glasses put off US viewersUS consumers are attracted to theimmersive quality of 3D TV but areputt off buying one by both the costand the need to wear special glasses,according to a study by Nielsen. 57per cent said 3D TV made them feel‘part of the action’, while 48 per centsaid they felt more engaged withwhat they were watching. However,57 per cent said they were put off byhaving to wear 3D glasses. 68 percent said the cost of the device wasan issue, while 44 per cent wereconcerned by the lack of 3D content.

HP settles Mark Hurd lawsuitHewlett-Packard has settled a lawsuitfiled against former CEO Mark Hurd,after he took a job at Oracle weeksafter stepping down at HP. Hurd wasappointed president of Oracle afterleaving his former role amidallegations he had a relationship withan employee and filed improperexpense claims. Oracle chief execLarry Ellison, who initially describedthe lawsuit as “vindictive”, said thetwo firms would continue to workwith each other.

Digital games overtake boxedThe value of the digital PC gamesmarket is now far greater than theboxed sector, analysis group NPDhas found. According to the report,11.2 million PC games werepurchased in North Americabetween January and June 2010. Inthe same period just 8.2 millionboxed PC games were bought atretail. However, physical productsgenerated better revenues, holdingon to 57 per cent of the market.

VIP signs MobilisVIP Computers has signed anexclusive UK distribution deal withmobile IT accessory firm Mobilis. Itwill see the distie launching theMobilis Bump range into the UKmarket. The notebook and netbookbags in the range use the vendor’spatented ‘dynamic spring system’to absorb shocks and impacts.Dejan Draguljevic, Mobilis’ UK andNorth America sales director, said:“Within a very competitive market,not only for products but alsodistributors, Mobilis felt the VIPComputers offering mirrored itsown when looking to take productsto market.”

Entanet is a top 100 hitWholesale voice and datacommunications provider Entanethas made the Sunday Times TechTrack 100 for the third yearrunning, securing 89th place in thelist of the UK’s fastest growingprivately-owned tech, telecoms anddigital media companies. Entanet isone of only 31 companies outsideof London and the South East tohave made the list. The firm wasalso named for the second yearrunning in The Guardian’s 2010Tech Media Invest Top 100, whichawards innovation and creativitefirms in the technology market.

Two thirds have experiencedcybercrimeAround 65 per cent of adults havebeen a victim of cybercrime,security vendor Symantec hasfound. The latest NortonCybercrime Report said that justnine per cent of people feel "verysafe" online while only three percent of internet users thinkcybercrime won’t happen to them.Symantec said that 51 per cent ofusers had experienced viruses ormalware, ten per cent had fallenfoul of online scams while nine percent had experienced phishingattacks. Seven per cent had alsoexperienced social network profilehacking and a similar number hadbeen struck by credit card fraud.

NewsBytes

NEWS

8 PCR October www.pcr-online.biz

Kindle beats iPad as an e-readerThe majority of people preferreading e-books on Amazon’sKindle over Apple’s iPad, asurvey of 1,000 UK and USusers by news navigatorOneNewsPage.com has found.65 per cent said they wouldchoose Amazon’s device,despite the iPad’s ‘compelling’multi-functionality. The studyalso found that just over half –53 per cent – would rather reade-books on holiday thanpaperbacks. Of those surveyed,16 per cent said they ownedboth a Kindle and an iPad.

FUTURE HAS closed popularconsumer mag PC Answers, after areview of its entire PC business.

The news follows the closure oflegendary gaming title PC Zone, whichpublished its last issue in September.

The specialist publisher insisted itwould continue to support theremaining titles in its PC portfolio.

“Following a strategic review of ourPC portfolio, we’re sorry to announcethat we've taken the difficult decision toclose PC Answers,” said publisherCharlotte Morgan. The magazine on salein October will be the final issue.

“The team have done an excellent jobin creating a compelling, well-followedmagazine, which makes this decisioneven harder. We are focusing our printefforts on Official Windows Magazine,

PC Plus, PC Format, What Laptop andthe continued growth of our bookazineroster. We’re actively seeking otheropportunities for the four members ofstaff affected by PC Answer’s closure. I’dlike to thank them for their great workover a number of years.”

Now PC Answers closes

THE PCR AWARDS will return for2011 at the glamorous new location ofthe Lancaster London.

The awards, which will take place onThursday March 17th, are now in theirfourth year, and will once again providean evening of entertainment,networking, and celebration of the greatand the good within the UK trade.

Lobbying begins now – if you want tonominate a company [email protected] is Friday November 26th.

At this year’s ceremony, over 300member of the industry gathered towatch Microsoft take home theprestigious Grand Prix award, followingthe strong execution of its latestoperating system Windows 7.

EntaTech also performed well,picking up both Sales Team andDistributor of the year prizes in theDistribution category.

In the Frontline category, JohnLewis, Amazon and Utopia were amongthe retailers taking home silverware.

“Following ever increasing demand,we have decided to move the PCRAwards to the new location of theLancaster London, which will prove tobe a great new venue for one of themost important nights of the year,” saidPCR publisher and Intent Media MDStuart Dinsey.

“All the elements that have made thenight such as success for the past threeyears remain, and we hope you can allbe a part of it. One of the key drivers ofits success is the transparent judgingprocess, which the trade really

appreciates. The fact the event covers allfacets of the industry has also made theevent tremendously popular, and wewere delighted with the response we gotfrom this year’s awards. We lookforward to seeing you all there.”

NEWS


Date set for Thursday March 17th at the Lancaster London � Lobbying now open

Categories, date andvenue confirmed forPCR Awards 2011

THE CATEGORIES IN FULLFrontline AwardsThe Frontline Awards will recognise excellence in retail and reseller businesses, bethey on the High Street, online, or B2B segments. The winners of these awardswill be those that have best represented the UK technology industry to the widerpublic, be that in terms of support, advice, or sales.The categories are:Independent RetailerRetail Chain Store Manager Online Retailer Value Added Reseller Service and Support

Distribution AwardsThe distribution awards are designed to acknowledge the hard work put in by theunsung heroes of the channel – the distribution firms which are a vital linkbetween vendors and retailers.The categories are:Sales TeamMarketing and PR Specialist DistributorDistributor of the Year

Vendor AwardsThese awards focus on the core of the industry – the manufacturers and publishersthat create technology products. Recognition will be given for innovation,commercial success and support of the trade. The categories are:Software Publisher Hardware Manufacturer Gadget of the Year Campaign of the Year Specialist Vendor

Grand PrixAwarded to a company which has made a conspicuous contribution to thechannel during the previous year.

LobbyingThe deadline for nominating who you would like to see win a PCR Award is FridayNovember 26th.You can nominate your own company or a customer now byemailing [email protected], telling us why the company shouldbe considered a Finalist.

Tickets and Sponsorship PackagesA variety of sponsorship packages are available now. [email protected] to find out more. Table and ticket enquiries shouldalso be made to [email protected] or on 01992 535 647.

“We are moving thePCR Awards to the new

location of LancasterLondon, which will

prove to be a great newvenue for one of the

most important nightsof the year.”Stuart Dinsey,PCR Publisher

10 PCR October

EPSON has unveiled its planto drive into the businessmarket, supported by a newrange of devices that havebeen specifically developed forthe office environment.

The vendor is targeting whatit calls the ‘micro business’segment – small companiesaround the UK which employfewer than ten people – and ithas identified a number of areaswhere it can offerimprovements, includingwireless networking, paperhandling, double-sided printing,running costs and speed.

“The business market is anarea where we think we’vebeen punching below ourweight,” Epson’s managingdirector Chris Price told PCR.

“We’re not looking todominate the market – there’ssome very well establishedplayers there already – but

we’ve definitely got theproducts here to really makean impact.”

Epson will be launching anumber of devices that carrythese functions in the next

quarter and since itsdistribution is entirelydependent on the channel, it re-launched its accredited partnerprogramme earlier this year.

Epson will also be drawingon its strong legacy in retail toaid its growth in the businesssector. The vendor is currentlythe number one provider ofPOS printers in the world,with around half of all salesreceipts worldwide comingfrom its printers.

In addition, its ‘Micro Piezo’technology lets its devices printon almost any surfaceincluding canvas, glass, t-shirtsand, according to Epson, clay– giving the company astrong route to market viaspecialist printing services.

HAVING GIVEN its corporateand in-store image a lick ofpaint, Comet says it is lookingto put more ‘personality’ intotech retail, as part of its strategyto snatch customers away frombig-chain rivals Dixons Retailand Best Buy.

The Kesa-owned retailer,which has 250 stores acrossthe UK, claims jargon-fuelledselling is rife in the tech retailsector, and that customerswant more of a personableshopping experience.

“A lot of people in themarket today just talk about

product features, and don’tactually translate them intocustomer benefits,” head ofmarketing Bill Moir toldPCR. “What we’re learningfrom customers is that theyreally want someone to dothat translation for them.

“I don’t think anyonestands out particularly ashaving a personality. Thisrefresh is really focused onhaving a personality, as well asthe knowledge. I think wereally want to change ourcommunication now so wecome across as moreaccessible and friendly, andless corporate than we have

been in the past and ourcompetitors are.”

The brand refresh isbacked up by a newadvertising campaign underthe tagline ‘come and play’,which will focus on the actualbenefits of consumerelectronics, as part of Comet’sdesire to distance itself fromspec-based selling and techno-babble.

“Our aim is to help peoplediscover how technology canimprove their lives. All thatwe have done this year andwhat we do next year will betowards delivering that,” Moir added.

By Andrew Wooden

Kesa-owned retail chain refreshed with more colourfullook � Firm looks to move away from techno-babble

Epson: ‘We’ve been punchingbelow our weight’

“There’s some verywell established

players in thebusiness market

already, but we’vedefinitely got theproducts to make

an impact.”Chris Price, Epson

NEWS

Comet aims to inject‘personality’ into retail

Chris Pricesays Epson willbe launching anumber of newdevices in thenext quarter

A VIPEXPERIENCEFOR 2

VIP Computers recommend genuine Microsoft® software.*

Term

s an

d C

ondi

tions

App

ly.

Plea

se v

isit

ww

w.v

ip-c

ompu

ters

.com

/uk

for

full

T&C

s

For the chance to win the ultimate London

weekend, buy the ultimate Windows® 7.

Windows® 7 Ultimate is the most versatile and powerful

edition of Windows® 7. It combines remarkable ease-

of-use with the entertainment features of Home

Premium and the business capabilities of Professional,

including the ability to run many Windows XP productivity

programs in Windows XP Mode.

• A weekend stay for two in a 5* London hotel of your

choice (from an exclusive list), including dinner for one night

• Front row seats for two at a showof your choice

• Dining and drinks for two at a top London restaurant of your choice(from an exclusive list)

• A private champagne London Eyefl ight for two in your own capsule

Purchase any Windows® 7 product in October from VIP Computers, and you’ll be automatically entered into a FREE prize draw to WIN a VIP London weekend experience for two*.

THE LUCKY WINNER WILL RECEIVE FULL HOSPITALITY INCLUDING...

ORDER TODAY AND YOU COULD BE A WINNER!

sales: 0871 622 7500 www.vip-computers.com/uk

Kaspersky® Internet Security 2011With the increasing attacks and risks to your Internet enjoyment it is getting more and more important to have the best and most updated Internet protection possible. Only with Kaspersky® Internet Security 2011 you are in the Green Zone, the safest place on the Internet.

Real-time proactive protection against all Internet threats Protection for your digital identity at all times Feature-rich and effective Parental Control Unique Safe Run mode for applications & websites Easy-access Desktop gadget

© 1997-2010 K

aspersky Lab.

Come into the Green ZoneKaspersky Internet Security 2011

+44 (0)333 101 1000www.entaonline.com

+44 (0)1279 822822www.gem.co.uk

+44 (0)870 1660160www.ingrammicro.co.uk

+44 (0)870 0270985www.kochmedia.com

+44 (0)1202 828444www.spire.co.uk

To order your stock of Kaspersky® Internet Security 2011 or Kaspersky® Anti-Virus 2011today, call the Kaspersky Lab retail team on +44(0)871 789 1632,email [email protected] or visit www.kaspersky.co.uk/profi table-partners

THE ANNUAL e-reader sales boomfuelled by festive buying will doublethis year, according to Sony.

Talking to PCR, Sony’s categorymarketing manager Omar Gurnah saidthat over the last few years the markethad recorded sales growth of over 100per cent during the festive period, butthat records are set to be smashed thisyuletide.

“In the United States, we’ve seenover 100 per cent sales growth everyyear since 2007 and it has been thesame in the UK since 2008,” statedGurnah. “This year we are expecting tosee a 200 per cent growth. It’s theperfect present, so the Christmasperiod is always the time when thiscategory sees its biggest sales spike.”

Last Christmas, e-readers were Sony’slargest growth area, with its sales forDecember 2009 representing fourtimes the value of the same period in

the previous year. In fact, sales were sostrong that on Christmas Day peoplewho had just unwrapped an e-readeroverloaded Sony’s servers.

Gurnah’s predictions are supportedby findings from the market analysisfirm In-Stat, which predicted that salesof e-readers would triple by the year2014, going on to suggest that 12million devices would be sold this yearalone, rising to 35 million in threeyears time.

A number of companies arepositioning themselves to takeadvantage of this annual growth; Sonyhas recently launched its new Readermodels, and Acer will be launching thelatest version of its LumiRead device intime for the festive period.

In addition, although Amazon hasalready released this year’s model ofKindle, the e-tailer is supporting itsdevice with a televised marketing drivein the United States and a billboardcampaign here in the UK.

By Matt Grainger

NEWS

Sony predicts annual festive spike to double this year � Vendors position new launches for Christmas

200% Christmas growthfor e-readers expected

Sony’s category marketing manager Omar Gurnah shows off the new Touch Reader

Internet Week coming to LondonSO CALLED ‘crowdsourcing’ eventInternet Week will come to Londonfor the first time next month,promising to highlight the city’s digitaltech sector and get as many companies– large or small – on board.

The event, held from November 8thto the 12th at various locations acrossthe city, will comprise of a myriad ofactivities ranging from conferences,technology demos, panel discussions,educational programming and meet-ups to late-night parties.

“The idea is that the festival worksin the same way as the internet – thismeans it is open to everyone. Noorganisation or event is too big or

small and everyone is welcome,” saidPenelope Shaw, festival director atInternet Week Europe. “The festivalbreaks down the traditional industrysilos and appeals to anyone whoconsiders the internet to be integral towhat they do.”

When asked if retailers stand tobenefit from the event, Shaw said:“Absolutely! The inclusive nature ofthe festival gives event partners tounique opportunity to promote theirbusiness to a wider audience. Weencourage our partners to hold eventsthat work for them, from spreading theword about what they do, holdingworkshops or meeting new contacts.” Internet Week took over Times Square in New York City earlier this year

IT'S DIFFICULT to see a mass-market applicationfor 3D at this stage, and trying to convince thepublic that they have a need or desire for 3D TVwill likely be an uphill struggle. For most, it is anevent, not a necessity. It’s nice to see a 3D movieonce in a while, or go to the pub to watchfootball in 3D, but not the sort of thing you’d feelthe need for day in, day out. I don’t imagine we’llall be sat at home watching TV with 3D glasseson anytime soon. As with all technology, it willdevelop with time; costs will come down andmore compelling applications will be developed,but the returns are likely to be long-term.

The tech industry is pumping huge sums of money into the research and development of 3D devices,but is there a danger the public won't take to it to the degree that manufacturers are hoping? Thismonth, we ask our panel: Could the revived 3D sector leave some firms seriously out of pocket?

Industry Opinions

ANALYSIS HOW BIG IS THE 3D MARKET?

www.pcr-online.biz OCTOBER PCR 15

Paul Cubbage Managing Director, Target Components

3D WAS the hot topic at both CES and IFA thisyear. We believe 3D is a viable technology andthat it will continue to grow. However, theextent of this growth will largely depend on theexperience; for some, the need for glasses maybe seen as a hindrance. At AMD, we think thatthe growth and mass-market appeal for 3Ddevices will depend upon the new experiencesoffered beyond the current glasses-and-monitorsystems available. We believe that if the industryadopts an open standard approach to 3D inthese early stages, this will drive the necessaryinnovation needed for it to become a success.

Neil Spicer GPU and Chipsets Lead, AMD

THE 3D sector is in danger of becoming toofascinated with the latest trend. 3D is not new; itwas actually pioneered in the early sixties andwas famously used by Alfred Hitchcock, so if thedemand was there then surely the manufacturerswould have developed the technology at agreater speed. As someone who wears glasses,the experience both at home and in the cinemadoesn’t feel natural and is also inconvenient.There is no doubt that 3D, when used properly,can enhance the visual experience and givessome breathtaking results, but one of the issues isthat there is too much bad use of the technology.

Adam HarrisChief Executive Officer, Technology Channels Association

YOU CAN invest as much as you like into theR&D of 3D hardware, but ultimately it will bethe availability of content that will determine itssuccess; the popularity of Avatar demonstratedthat. Nvidia has been careful to ensure that ahuge back-catalogue of PC games can be playedwith its 3D Vision hardware, even if they weren’toriginally written with that intention. Sony is alsoheavily investing in 3D technology and it hasmore than enough clout to make sure that therewill be plenty of content to give people a reasonto buy 3D hardware. Other manufacturers mustfollow Sony’s and Nvidia’s lead in this respect.

Matthew ParrishProduct Manager, VIP Computers

AS WITH any new innovation, there is always acertain amount of risk involved. Without thisinnovation though, we wouldn’t see as manynew products or exciting developments such as3D or CPUs with inbuilt graphics. A few yearsago we could have questioned whether high-definition content would be successful, or if thepublic would adopt it as well as DVD or VHS.As we can see now, it’s been very successful. Inmy opinion, 3D is the next step and is a far cryfrom the previous iterations of 3D technologythat we’ve seen – If you haven’t experienced 3Dyet, you’re missing out!

Iain BristowTechnical PR and ComponentProduct Marketing Specialist, Asus

THE LAST TIME the television industry launcheda new format like this it was widescreen whichtook three or four years to reach a substantialvolume. Now, 3D TV is already way in advanceof this but it will be a gradual take up as pricesbecome more mass-market, 3D software titlesbecome more readily available and moreproducts and screen sizes come to market.

Nigel CatlowBusiness Group Director forConsumer Electronics, GfK

HAVING RECEIVED a great deal ofpositive feedback, we’ve kept the formatof the fourth annual PCR Awards moreor less untouched from last year.

There are 16 awards up for grabswithin the Frontline, Distribution andVendor categories, while the prestigiousGrand Prix remains the top prize of the night, celebrating one particularstand-out firm that has achievedsomething special over the course ofthe last year.

FRONTLINE AWARDSThe Frontline Awards will recogniseexcellence in retail and resellerbusinesses, be they on the High Street,online, or B2B segments.

The winners of these awards will bethose that have best represented theUK technology industry to the widerpublic, whether that’s in terms ofsupport, advice, or sales…

INDEPENDENT RETAILERWho’s eligible?Any bricks and mortar computerretailer with fewer than ten stores.

How is this award won?PCR will take soundings from theindustry and consider any directlobbying from retailers, suppliers, orgeneral readers before announcing a setof finalists in the January issue. Thewinner is voted for by the JudgingPanel, which will consist of up to 100highly regarded industry executivestaken from all sectors of the business.Members of the jury vote in confidence and are only revealed after voting is complete. They cannot vote for themselves orassociated companies.

Judges will consider the followingcriteria:

• Product range• Customer service• Value for money

How do I make my opinion heard?You can nominate your own companyor a customer by [email protected],by November 26th, telling us why thefirm should be considered a Finalist.

HIGH STREET CHAINWho’s eligible?Any bricks and mortar computer retail chain.

How is this award won?PCR will take soundings from theindustry and consider any directlobbying from retailers, suppliers, orgeneral readers before announcing a setof finalists in the January issue. Thewinner is voted for by the Judging

The countdown to the fourth annual PCR Awards has begun, as the trade looks forward to a night ofnetworking, entertainment, and celebration of all the hard work that keeps the industry’s cogs turning. Held atthe Lancaster London on Thursday March 17th, the event will once again bring the whole channel together –and here is our foolproof guide on how to be a part of it, outlining all you need to know about the event itself,how to lobby, and who decides the winners…

How to win a PCR Award

PCR AWARDS 2011 � LOBBYING GUIDE


Panel, which will consist of up to 100highly regarded industry executivestaken from all sectors of the business.Members of the jury vote in confidenceand are only revealed after voting iscomplete. They cannot vote forthemselves or associated companies.

Judges will consider the followingcriteria:• Product range• Customer service• Value for money

How do I make my opinion heard?You can nominate your own companyor a customer by [email protected] byNovember 26th, telling us why the firmshould be considered a Finalist.

ONLINE RETAILERWho’s eligible?Any computer retailer that is onlineonly or the online element of a HighStreet store.

How is this award won?PCR will take soundings from theindustry and consider any directlobbying from retailers, suppliers, orgeneral readers before announcing a setof finalists in the January issue. Thewinner is voted for by the Judging Panel,which will consist of up to 100 highlyregarded industry executives taken fromall sectors of the business. Members ofthe jury vote in confidence and are only revealed after voting is complete.They cannot vote for themselves orassociated companies.

Judges will consider the followingcriteria:• Product range• Customer service• Ease of navigation


VALUE ADDED RESELLERWho’s eligible?Business-orientated VARs and systemintegrators.


Judges will consider the followingcriteria:• Product range• Customer satisfaction• Solution innovation

How do I make my opinion heard?You can nominate your own company

or a customer now by [email protected],telling us why the firm should beconsidered a Finalist.

SERVICE AND SUPPORTWho’s eligible?Any PC professional involved in thesupport and repair of PCs.

How is this award won?PCR will take soundings from theindustry and consider any direct lobbyingfrom retailers, suppliers, or generalreaders before announcing a set offinalists in the January issue. The winneris voted for by the Judging Panel, whichwill consist of up to 100 highly regardedindustry executives taken from all sectorsof the business. Members of the jury votein confidence and are only revealed aftervoting is complete. They cannot vote forthemselves or associated companies.

Judges will consider the followingcriteria:• Product knowledge• Customer satisfaction• Success rate


STORE MANAGER OF THE YEARWho’s eligible?Any store manager running a bricks andmortar computer retailer.



View entaonline.com for the full list of

offers or sign up now to receive our eshots by

emailing

[email protected]

EntaTech have teamed up with 21 vendors to bring you spine tingling deals throughout October. Look out for the tricks and treats we have in store for you.

Call 0333 101 1000 to speak to your account manager or to apply for an account.

Promotion from 1st – 31st October, offers available whilst stocks last. View our website for more details.

THE CHANNEL

AWARDS

2010SHORTLISTED

Reach energy engaged customers The Energy Saving Trust Recommended online product database receives over 20,000 unique visits a month from customers already interested in buying an energy efficient product. Plus the Energy Saving Trust’s database of around 400,000 energy conscious opt-in subscribers are emailed regularly with product details and promotions.

For more information on joining Energy Saving Trust Recommended: energysavingtrust.org.uk/estr 020 7222 0101 [email protected]

Energy Saving Trust Recommended only certifiesthe best performing energy saving products at the top end of the market.

On average our standards are at least 20% higher than ENERGY STAR

Desk

tops

Mon

itors

Lapt

ops

Inkj

et

prin

ters

More stringent by an average of: 37% 21%* 29% 64%

ENERGY STAR 5 endorsed products (in Europe)

3572 1355 4838 336

Energy Saving Trust Recommended eligible products 252 233 691 75

% of ENERGY STAR productsthat may be eligible

7% 13% 14% 22%

Comparing Energy Saving Trust Recommended with ENERGY STAR 5

Energy efficiency is a growing responsibility for consumers andthe manufacturers and retailerswho sell products.

How do your customers know which of your products are the most energy efficient?

There is no compulsory energy labelling scheme in the UK for desktops, laptops, inkjet printers or monitors, but your customers already understand what Energy Saving Trust Recommended means.

The label is recognised by 39% of all consumers, making Energy Saving Trust Recommended the most effective way to tell your customers which products will save the most energy.

*Based upon the specifi cations for a 22” 16:9 aspect 1280 x 1024 pixel monitor




Judges will consider the followingcriteria:• Product range• Customer service• Store layout


DISTRIBUTION AWARDSThe distribution awards are designed toacknowledge the hard work put in bythe unsung heroes of the channel – thedistribution firms which are a vital linkbetween vendors and retailers…

MARKETING AND PR TEAMWho’s eligible?The communications arm of any ITdistributor.

How is this award won?PCR will take soundings from the

industry and consider any directlobbying from retailers, suppliers, orgeneral readers before announcing a setof finalists in the January issue. Thewinner is voted for by the Judging Panel,which will consist of up to 100 highlyregarded industry executives taken fromall sectors of the business. Members ofthe jury vote in confidence and are only revealed after voting is complete.They cannot vote for themselves orassociated companies.

Judges will consider the followingcriteria:• Visibility• Press relations• Channel relationships


SALES TEAMWho’s eligible?The sales team of any IT distributor.

How is this award won?PCR will take soundings from theindustry and consider any directlobbying from retailers, suppliers, orgeneral readers before announcing a setof finalists in the January issue. Thewinner is voted for by the Judging Panel,which will consist of up to 100 highlyregarded industry executives taken fromall sectors of the business. Members ofthe jury vote in confidence and are only revealed after voting is complete.

They cannot vote for themselves orassociated companies.

Judges will consider the followingcriteria:• Product knowledge• Delivery of service• Channel relationships


SPECIALIST DISTRIBUTORWho’s eligible?Distributors that specialise in particulartypes of products.


Judges will consider the followingcriteria:• Product knowledge• Channel relationships• Innovation




DISTRIBUTOR OF THE YEARWho’s eligible?Any distribution firm that hasperformed particularly well overall inthe last 12 months.


Judges will consider the followingcriteria:• Product knowledge • Channel relationships• Innovation

How do I make my opinion heard?You can nominate your own companyor a customer now by [email protected] byNovember 26th, telling us why the firmshould be considered a Finalist.

VENDOR AWARDSThese awards focus on the core of theindustry – the manufacturers andpublishers that create technologyproducts. Recognition will be given forinnovation, commercial success andsupport of the trade…

HARDWARE MANUFACTURERWho’s eligible?Any firm that produces IT hardware,such as laptops, graphics cards, orperipherals.


Judges will consider the followingcriteria:• Product desirability• Channel innovation• Visibility


SOFTWARE PUBLISHERWho’s eligible?Any firm that produces PC software.




SPECIALIST VENDORWho’s eligible?Firms that specialise in one particularfield.

How is this award won?PCR will take soundings from theindustry and consider any directlobbying from retailers, suppliers, or



general readers before announcing a setof finalists in the January issue. Thewinner is voted for by the Judging Panel,which will consist of up to 100 highlyregarded industry executives taken fromall sectors of the business. Members ofthe jury vote in confidence and are only revealed after voting is complete.They cannot vote for themselves orassociated companies.



GADGET OF THE YEARWhat’s eligible?Any gadget or piece of consumerelectronics, such as an MP3 player,mobile phone or GPS device.

How is this award won?PCR will take soundings from theindustry and consider any directlobbying from retailers, suppliers, orgeneral readers before announcing a setof finalists in the January issue. Thewinner is voted for by the Judging Panel,which will consist of up to 100 highlyregarded industry executives taken fromall sectors of the business. Members ofthe jury vote in confidence and are

only revealed after voting is complete.They cannot vote for themselves orassociated companies.



CAMPAIGN OF THE YEARWho’s eligible?Any vendor in the IT/technology sector.

How is this award won?PCR will take soundings from theindustry and consider any directlobbying from retailers, suppliers, orgeneral readers before announcing a setof finalists in the January issue. Thewinner is voted for by the Judging Panel,which will consist of up to 100 highlyregarded industry executives taken fromall sectors of the business. Members ofthe jury vote in confidence and are onlyrevealed after voting is complete. Theycannot vote for themselves or associatedcompanies.

Judges will consider the followingcriteria:• Channel relationships • Visibility • Commercial success

How do I make my opinion heard?You can nominate your own companyor a customer now by [email protected],telling us why the firm should beconsidered a Finalist.

GRAND PRIXWho’s eligible?Any company active within the UK ITchannel that has enjoyed commercialand critical success, while showing thehighest levels of support and efficiencyat trade level. Finalists for this award arechosen entirely by the PCR team andare not revealed to anyone until theawards night on Thursday March 17th.

Judges will consider the following:• Commercial success• Marketing commitment andeffectiveness • Customer service• Retail support• Commitment to driving the industry forward

The Mini-PCs with Unlimited Possibilities Size, Functionality and Design

Shuttle is known for its small footprint designs and high efficiency heat-pipe solutions that are specially designed to reduce heat and noise in its chassis. Placing great emphasis on the interior and exterior aesthetics of its products, Shuttle mini PC is recognized as attractive, versatile and work well in almost any environment!

XS35The Power-Packing Slim PC that Fits into Any Environment

X50 V2The Slim and Stylish All-in-One PC

SX58J3The Most Powerful Mini-PC

SH55J2The Ideal Mini-PC for Home Entertainment

SG41J1 PlusThe Mini-PC with Best Cost Performance



When are the awards?Thursday March 17th at the LancasterLondon Hotel

When is the deadline forsubmissions?The deadline for nominating who youwould like to see win a PCR Award isFriday November 26th.You cannominate your own company or acustomer now by [email protected],telling us why the company shouldbe considered a Finalist.

What is the judging process?The winner is voted for by the

Judging Panel, which consists of atleast 100 highly regarded industryexecutives taken from all sectors ofthe business. Members of the Juryvote in confidence and the panel isonly revealed after voting iscomplete. They cannot vote forthemselves or associated companies.

Tickets and Sponsorship PackagesA variety of sponsorship packages areavailable now. [email protected] tofind out more. Table and ticketenquiries should be made [email protected] orcall 01992 535 647.

Need to know

Last year’s winnersOver 300 retailers, resellers, distributors and vendors descended on Kensington's RoyalGarden Hotel for the PCR Awards 2010, for an evening of celebration and networkingat the only celebration that takes in every aspect of the trade

FRONTLINE

Independent Retailer – Utopia Computers

Retail Chain – John Lewis

Store Manager – Neil Stewart, CCL Computers

Online Retailer – Amazon

Value Added Reseller – Stone Computers

Service and Support – Geeks on Wheels

DISTRBUTION

Sales Team – EntaTech

Marketing and PR – Gem Creative

Specialist Distributor – Interactive Ideas

Distributor of the Year – EntaTech

VENDOR

Software Publisher – Microsoft

Hardware Manufacturer – Acer

Gadget of the Year – Apple iPhone 3Gs

Campaign of the Year – Microsoft – Windows 7

Specialist Vendor – Kingston Technology

GRAND PRIX

Microsoft

Utopia Computers John Lewis

CCL Computers Amazon Stone Computers

Geeks-on-Wheels EntaTech Gem Creative

Interactive Ideas EntaTech Microsoft

ACER Apple

Kingston Technology Grand Prix – Microsoft

Microsoft

www.pcr–online.biz PCR October 27

Can you give us a run down of whatthe brand refresh involves?The main elements of it are abouttrying to shift our personality and ourtone of voice in order to broaden ourappeal and give customers more ofwhat they want.

There’s a change of logo, which willbe rolling out to over 100 stores thisside of Christmas. We’re alsolaunching a new advertising campaign,including the new TV ad tagline ‘comeand play’, inviting customers to comeand try products in store and learnabout technology. We’ve also beenrefreshing POS in our stores, so nowthere are bright colours all around.

We’re changing the uniforms, whichare still professional but they’re going tobe less formal. We will be gettingcolleagues to take their ties and jackets

off and wear an open-necked shirt,which will be in a number of brightcolours – green, blue and pink. It willbring some colour and life and fun intoour stores, and make them a bit morewelcoming and friendly.

So it’s more of a lick of paint than atotal overhaul?It’s changing our communicationsstance. We’re now communicatingmore of our personality to broaden ourappeal. We actually are quite differentin what we do, we just haven’tnecessarily communicated that aseffectively as we’d like.

Why have you decided to do this now?A lot of it stems from research we did atthe back end of last year. We asked about2,000 customers how they use electricals

and what their attitude towards them is.They told us that they want to enjoy theshopping process more, and they wantsomeone to really focus on the benefitsof technology.

A lot of people in the market todayjust talk about product features, anddon’t actually translate them intocustomer benefits. What we’re learningfrom customers is that they really wantsomeone to do that translation forthem. We thought that was an idealopportunity because we’re a full servicecompany anyway. That’s how we’rechanging our communication in store.

What is it that differentiates Cometfrom the other major technologyretail chains, Best Buy and Dixons? I don’t think anyone stands outparticularly as having a personality.


Following a solid set of financials inits last financial year, Comet isrefreshing its 250-strong storeportfolio with a new look as part ofits drive to give technology retail‘more personality’. Andrew Woodentalks to head of marketing Bill Moir…

INTERVIEW COMET

Trailblazing

“We really want tochange our

communication now sowe come across as

more accessible andfriendly, and less

corporate than we havebeen in the past – andthat our competitors

are.”Bill Moir, Comet

This refresh is really focused on havinga personality, as well as the knowledge.We’ve been making sure our colleaguesare all well trained, and that means wecan give excellent customer service;that’s something we’ve invested a lot in.I think we really want to change ourcommunication now so we come acrossas more accessible and friendly, andless corporate than we have been in thepast – and that our competitors are.

Do you think this ‘corporate’ stanceis a put-off for shoppers?I think we’d like to be more engaging,we’d like to talk to them more on theirlevel, use less jargon, less corporatelanguage and be a bit more real.

We certainly want to soften andbroaden our approach by being morewelcoming to people. If you look at themarket as a whole, it can be quitefunctional in the way it communicates.

Can you grow to be a larger player inthe UK market?We already are a large player in themarket, we’re one of the top brands in

the UK. One of the things we want todo with the brand refresh is broadenour appeal, and attract a wideraudience, so in that sense yes we do.

And this refresh will help you takecustomers away from Dixons andBest Buy?Certainly I expect us to appeal to awider set of customers, yes.

Are there any more store openingsplanned? Any other expansions hereor abroad?We’ve been very active in terms of ourstore refits this year, and our focus isreally making sure that our heartlandstores are up to scratch and have all thelatest interactive displays. We’recurrently refitting our smaller corestores at the moment; 34 will becompleted by Christmas and there’s afew store openings as well.

Will there be more next year?The plan this year has been reallysuccessful actually, so I imagine thatwill continue next year.

What products will be the majordrivers at retail over the coming year? One of the biggest drivers this yearobviously has been 3D TV, which hasbeen hugely successful for us. I think asprices come down it’s going to get moreand more popular. The iPad has beenvery successful, and I imagine that willcontinue into its first Christmas. Thenew range of iPods will be doing well, asthey always do. There’s a couple of newthings coming out which look like they’regoing to perform well – such as theMicrosoft Kinect and PlayStation Move.

Do you think tablets will take overfrom netbooks?They take up a very similar space in themarket. The main tablet at the momentis the iPad, and it’s still a lot moreexpensive than netbooks, so it’s not goingto take over on its own, but you do havea lot of other products coming out withlower price points. It will start to stealfrom the netbook market, certainly.

You also mentioned 3D – do youthink the general public is going to

buy into it as much as the techindustry is hoping it will?It has been very popular with us –we’ve sold thousands since it launched.It’s one of these stories that continuesto grow and grow, as more thingscomes out to support it. The launch ofthe Sky TV channel will add moremomentum to the 3D market. Thelaunch of the Panasonic camcorder andother 3D cameras helps as well. Thereare more and more of these productslaunching on the market, which iskeeping the growth going on 3D.

Where do you see Comet in fiveyears’ time?Our aim is to help people discover howtechnology can improve their lives. We’refocusing that on our communications,on how we grow a true multi-channelexperience, and really driving our servicemessage – that’s the key to making us gofrom strength to strength. We haven’tgot any specifics about where we expectto be in terms of market share, butcertainly in terms of what we need to dowith the customer we’ve got a good plan.


INTERVIEW COMET

Comet's new TV ads feature the 'come and play' tagline, and star 24 members of staff from across the country demonstrating products in a lighthearted and imaginative way

The retail chain is increasingly focusing on staff training and its new, more casual, uniforms are designed to “bring colour and life” to the stores

THESE DAYS, many distributors andvendors put on unilateral exhibitionevents. While you’re not going to exertthe same sort of pull as an industry-wide trade extravaganza, if you can getenough people in the room, there arecertainly advantages to being the onlyshow in town.

However, few of these solo gigs arequite as ambitious in terms of locationas Ingram Micro’s Showcase – takingplace around the London Eye, theLondon Film Museum, 360 Altitude,the Millbank Tower, the CumberlandHotel and Carbon Bar.

As the world’s largest IT distributor,Ingram Micro exerts influence andboasts a vendor range beyond that ofmany of its competitors – and so itssolo events of the past have oftenseemed like mini-trade shows in theirown right. Some of the bigger namesbooked for this year’s show, held onWednesday October 6th, includeMicrosoft, Toshiba, Adobe, Sony,Kyocera, Blackberry, CA, Cisco, TrendMicro and Canon.

And Ingram Micro itself is not being

shy about the scale of its event. “TheIngram Micro Showcase will be thebiggest IT Channel event of 2010,bringing together vendor partners andresellers to discuss a huge breadth oftechnologies and industry trends,” saysLewis Daniels, senior campaignmanager for Ingram Micro.

“We are confident that attendees willfind it a great event to support and growtheir business. It also gives resellers anexceptional opportunity for one-to-onemeetings with Ingram Micro staff andkey representatives from leading vendors.Events organised by a distributor body,such as Ingram Micro, allow resellers tomake the most of the tangible benefitsavailable at the show. These includeexclusive offers and the opportunity to

create and cement productiverelationships with useful contacts.”

The distributor has also booked astring of key speakers for the event,including Andy Brocklehurst, Cisco’sregional sales manager for smallbusiness in the UK and Ireland;Microsoft’s SMB and distribution

director for SMS&P Simon Aldous;Symantec’s EMEA director of productmarketing Kevin Bailey; Quocirca'ssenior analyst Clive Longbottom; GfK'sbusiness group director Greg West;Context co-founder Jeremy Davies andNBG’s MD Phylip Morgan.

“The Showcase will highlight viewsof key speakers from all areas of thechannel, giving attendees a uniqueopportunity to hear about the latest

industry developments,” adds Daniels.“This, coupled with information anddemonstrations of the latest productsand technologies, will give resellers andretailers the best and latest information,enabling them to grow their business intoday’s competitive environment. Ofcourse, a key differentiator is theopportunity for resellers to attend VIPflights on the London Eye and networkwith leading channel representativesfrom our top vendor partners.”

The exhibition will be followed by aninvite-only dinner, with an awardsceremony presented by comedian Hugh Dennis.

While this is the first event of itskind and therefore something of anexperiment for the distributor, it says itis committed to these types of showsgoing forward. “Ingram Micro realisesthe huge benefit of enabling face-to-facemeetings and conversations betweenreseller and vendor partners that wouldnot be possible without events such asShowcase, and we will continue toinvest and work with key partners nowand in the future,” Daniels concludes.

SHOW PREVIEW � INGRAM MICRO SHOWCASE


“The Showcase’s key differentiator is theopportunity for resellers to attend VIP flights on the

London Eye and network with leading channelrepresentatives from our top vendor partners.”

Lewis Daniels, Ingram Micro

With solo trade exhibitions on the rise, Ingram Micro is looking to leverage its position as the largest ITdistributor to show off its huge range of product lines with its Showcase event on Wednesday October6th – and has booked out a series of London venues to host it. Andrew Wooden takes a look…

Capital idea

For more information please contact our specialist memory team today.

Call: 01622 852 800 Email: [email protected]

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:

Simms International is a specialist memory distributor for some of the biggest names in the industry.

We are passionate about our products and with the in-depth knowledge of our markets we understand our customers’ needs. We have the focus, expertise and energy to provide solutions for our customers that cannot be found elsewhere in the market place.

Partner with us and discover how we can help benefit your business and increase your profitability.

FLASHCARDS & USBSSD

ENCRYPTED USBMEMORY

EXCELLENCE IN DISTRIBUTION

www.netbit.biz - Start Saving Today!

25% DiscountTHIS MONTHS

HOTDEALS £6.75 £5.50 £13.99

WL-700N-ARTThe new Dynamode WL-700N-ART is anultra-compact andstylish 11n USB2.0Wireless Adapterbringing the latest802.11n (150Mbps)Speeds

WL-700N-MRTSmall in Design. Bigon Speed. Introduc-ing one of theworld’s most com-pact 802.11n Wireless USBadapters

BR411NTAre you looking forthe latest Wireless11n Router withadvanced and easy-to-use featureswithout the heftyprice tag?

Register ONLINE now & become a 'Netbit Trader' - GET 25% OFF all Trade prices!

Call our sales team on 0845 375 21 28

WALL MOUNT NETWORKING CABINETS6U 450mm deep 19" Wall Mount Networking Cabinet £33.259U 450mm deep 19" Wall Mount Networking Cabinet £46.8812U 450mm deep 19" Wall Mount Networking Cabinet £58.1315U 550mm deep 19" Wall Mount Networking Cabinet £71.36

Floor Cabinets supplied with: Roof Fan Tray, Fixed Shelf, Casters & Front Cable Management (on 800mm wide)

FLOOR STANDING NETWORKING CABINETS(FREE Delivery + FREE Accessories)18U 600x600mm 19" Floor Standing Networking Cabinet £217.5018U 600x800mm 19" Floor Standing Networking Cabinet £233.7527U 600x800mm 19" Floor Standing Networking Cabinet £297.5027U 800x800mm 19" Floor Standing Networking Cabinet £367.5042U 600x800mm 19" Floor Standing Networking Cabinet £351.2542U 800x800mm 19" Floor Standing Networking Cabinet £443.7542U 600x1000mm 19" Floor Standing Server Cabinet £406.2542U 800x1000mm 19" Floor Standing Server Cabinet £506.25

CABLE ACCESSORIESRJ45 coupler - Plastic £0.31RJ45 UTP Inline Coupler - Cat5e £1.29Punchdown / Krone CAT5e Coupler (Black) £1.24Punchdown / Krone CAT6 Coupler (Black) £1.49100 X RJ45 UTP PLUGS (1 bag, qty 100) £6.25RJ45 plugs - Cat6 (2-part) £0.18RJ45 Cable Boots in red, grey, blue & green £0.05

CAT 5E PATCH LEADSEnhanced Cat 5E Max Lead - 0.3M £0.23Enhanced Cat 5E Max Lead - 0.5M £0.25Enhanced Cat 5E Max Lead - 1.0M £0.38Enhanced Cat 5E Max Lead - 1.5M £0.45Enhanced Cat 5E Max Lead - 2.0M £0.56Enhanced Cat 5E Max Lead - 3.0M £0.81Enhanced Cat 5E Max Lead - 4.0M £1.03

*CAT 6* 19'' RACKMOUNT PATCH PANELSLMS Data Cat6 – 24 Port UTP £16.13Generic Cat6 – 24 Port UTP £11.86LMS Data Cat6 – 24 Port UTP with Back Bar £13.63LMS Data Cat6 – 24 Port UTP - VERTICAL PUNCH DOWN £26.36LMS Data Cat6 – 24 Port UTP w/rear cover & management £40.25

NETWORKING TOOLSCat5e cable tester – tests RJ45, RJ11, USB etc.. £3.50Crimping tool - RJ45 £2.25Crimping tool - RJ45 & RJ11 £4.90Punch down Tool £1.50CABLE TIDIES - 8" (BAG OF 100) BLACK OR WHITE £0.98CABLE TIDIES - 12" (BAG OF 100) BLACK OR WHITE £1.39

*CAT5E* 19'' RACKMOUNT PATCH PANELSLMS Data 16 Port – STP Cat5e - Sheilded £12.50HORIZONTAL PUNCH DOWNLMS Data 24 - UTP Cat5e £12.49Generic 24 Port - UTP Cat5e £9.88LMS Data Cat5e – 24 Port UTP w/ rear cable management £22.26VERTICAL PUNCH DOWNLMS Data Cat5e – 24 Port STP (Shielded) w/ rear cover £21.94VERTICAL PUNCHDOWNGeneric 48 Port – UTP Cat5e £27.38

19'' UTP CAT6 PATCH LEADS - GREY (*** Other Colours Avaialble - Please Call ***)Enhanced Cat 6 Max Lead - 0.5M - GREY £0.60Enhanced Cat 6 Max Lead - 1.0M - GREY £0.75Enhanced Cat 6 Max Lead - 2.0M - GREY £0.99Enhanced Cat 6 Max Lead - 3.0M - GREY £1.36Enhanced Cat 6 Max Lead - 5.0M - GREY £1.86Enhanced Cat 6 Max Lead - 10.0M - GREY £3.59

www.pcr–online.biz PCR October 31

ENTATECH is one of the UK’sleading IT distributors, providinghardware, software, networking andsecurity products.

At the PCR Awards 2010 we werelucky enough to win two prestigiouscategories – one of which (the SalesTeam award) we have received for threeconsecutive years, which certainlysupports the success of our companystructure. Our aim is to be the first tosupply innovative products from ourvast portfolio through our friendly,knowledgeable staff, online e-commerceand account management facility.

We assign customers their owndedicated account manager, withwhom they can build a businessrelationship and have a personal point

of contact. Expert product specialists,who cover all our major categories suchas CCTV or networking, can becontacted at all times for any specificneed or query.

The second PCR Award EntaTechwon was Distributor of the Year, whichwe feel was partly down to our focus onconstantly growing and evolving to meetthe needs of our customers. We alwaysseek to provide innovative products forthe future, which will allow customersto maximise margins and potentiallycreate other revenue opportunities.This, combined with our continuousmarketing and sales support,differentiates us from the competition.

Since the awards in March,EntaTech has witnessed strong growth,

now reaching a turnover ofapproximately £100 million, with anever-expanding team of over 90 staff,including our dedicated productcategory specialists.

EntaTech’s customer base alsocontinues to grow, and we now deliverto over 2,000 customers each month.This is partnered with an ever-increasing product portfolio, and theaddition of more and more vendors,including many who distributeexclusively through us, such as Billion,Shuttle, Gainward and Swann Security.

This is a true testament toEntaTech’s dedication, and supportsour core strategy – an innovative andpioneering approach, which isfundamental to our success.

PCR AWARD WINNERS ENTATECH


We’ve been talking to the winners of this year’s PCR Awards to see how business has been since theceremony earlier this year. This month, EntaTech’s commercial group vice president Jon Athertondiscusses winning two of the prestigious prizes – the Sales Team award and Distributor of the Year…

Double whammy

"This is a testament toEntaTech’s dedication,and supports our core

strategy – an innovativeand pioneering

approach, which isfundamental to our success."

Jon Atherton, EntaTech


FRONTLINEStatistics and analysis about themonth’s bestselling products andwider retail trends

P 36

INDIE PROFILEWe chat to Alan Stacey of OtteryOffice and Computer in Devon

P 39

MYSTERY SHOPPERPCR hist Solihull in search of anexternal hard drive

P 40

PCR’s monthly look at the issues facing the retail sector

RetailFocus

This month Infinite Field Marketing has visited 250 stores across thenation to gather real ‘grass roots’ feedback and opinion on the best-selling products in-store and the issues affecting the industry...

RETAIL FOCUS � FRONTLINE


From theFrontline

BACK TO SCHOOL PERIODBOOSTS LAPTOP SALESLAPTOPS HAVE performedparticularly well over the past month,boosted by the stream of kids andstudents heading back in to education.

HP has two of its G62 notebooks inthis month’s entry. The G62-105 is afairly well specced machine, offering250GB of storage powered by an IntelCore i3 processor and supported bythree GB of RAM, which is expandableto eight GB if needed. The G62 a02SAon the other hand, utilises a dual coreAMD Athlon processor with two GB ofRAM and 250GB of storage.

The entry of the Toshiba L650 is afirst for these charts. It has a higherprice point than the HP machines, butthe device carries an Intel Core i5processor with 250GB of storage andthe minimum two GB of RAM requiredto run Windows 7.

Dell’s Inspiron 1545 is a regular entryto the laptop charts. It’s a fairly soliddevice that has the added advantage ofcoming in a choice of colours.

In the desktop chart, the top seller isthe Compaq SG3. Currently availablevia Tesco Direct at the (possibly lessthan cost) price of £299. It carries a2.7GHz AMD Athlon II X2 processor,backed up by four GB of RAM, 750 GBof storage and an ATi Radeon 3000series graphics card. If I was a lessscrupulous man, I’d say buy one andmark it up.

Another interesting development inthe sales charts is the entry ofKaspersky’s Antivirus 2011 in to the topselling security listing. This is the first ofthe ‘next generation’ of security softwareto enter our charts this year, but morewill follow as the annual product refreshperiod [email protected]

HP G62-1051

2. TOSHIBA L650-12P

3. HP G62 02 SA

4. DELL INSPIRON 1545-GB

5. ADVENT ECLIPSE

COMPAQ SG31

2 HP SLIMLINE S5508 UK

3. ACER ASPIRE X3400-215

4. PACKARD BELL IMEDIA 5202

5. APPLE IMAC

DESKTOPS

MICROSOFT CURVE 20001

2 LOGITECH MK300

3. MICROSOFT WIRED

4. LOGITECH COMPACT K300

5. LOGITECH ULTRAFLAT

KEYBOARDS

LAPTOPSLOGITECH M3051

2 LOGITECH M215

3. LOGITECH MX3200

4. LOGITECH V150

5. PC LINE WIRED MOUSE

NORTON 360 V41

2 KASPERSKY ANTIVIRUS 2011

3. NORTON ANTI VIRUS 2010

4. AVG INTERNET SECURITY 9.0

5. MCAFEE ANTIVIRUS PLUS 2010

INTERNET SECURITY

ATI RADEON HD57501

2 NVIDIA GEFORCE 9500GT

3. PNY NVIDIA GEFORCE GT240

4. ASUS ATI RADEON HD5570

5. BFG GEFORCE 9800 GT

GRAPHICS CARDS

MICE

Do you think Apple is going to become a much more dominant force in thetechnology market?An overwhelming majority of respondents think that Apple willbecome even more dominant in the IT market than it alreadyis. Having grown to almost monopolise the MP3 playermarket, successfully opening up the tablet sector to the massconsumer market, and currently driving widespread HTML5adoption, Apple certainly has a track record in marketdominance.

� Yes 68% � No 22% � Don’t know 10%

“Great stuff on the market atthe moment, Intel i3 is selling

well.”


RETAIL FOCUS � FRONTLINE

“Apple is doing extremelywell, the iPad is selling out

fast, but you still really needa PC as well.”

“Laptops are big at themoment due to the fact it isthe back to school period.”

“Sales are good. And we areabout to start to see thingsget even better. It’s a good

time to be a customer.“

“Sony E series laptops aregood, as they are givingstudents the Microsoftpackage; competitors

should follow suit.”

Infinite FMS is a specialist field marketing provider delivering bespoke solutions purely forthe technology sector. With over ten years experience, we understand how to supportmanufacturers with the execution of their below-the-line campaigns, ensuring brands arereinforced, product messages are effectively delivered and sales objectives are achieved.Our services include product training, compliance & data capture, promotion &demonstration activity, Mystery Shopping & Roadshows. To learn more about how we cansupport you, please contact us on 01793 686504 or visit our website atwww.infinitefms.com

NEWS BYTES

KEY RETAILER COMMENTS

EMPTY SHOP FIGURES REVEALNORTH-SOUTH DIVIDEThe increase in the number of retailvacancies in Great Britain is slowing, butthe North is faring worse than the South,according to research from The LocalData Company. Town centre vacancyrates have risen from just over 12 percent at the end of 2009, to 13 per centat the end of June 2010. While stores inLondon and the South East are holdingup comparatively well, large northernand Midland cities are suffering moreretail closures.

JOHN LEWIS REPORTS STRONGHALF-YEAR PERFORMANCE

John Lewis has revealed its results for thefirst half of 2010, reporting strong grosssales results of £1.4 billion, animprovement of 14.5 per cent. Like-for-like sales grew by 12.3 per cent, whileoverall operating profit was boosted by£15.6 million – representing growth of76.8 per cent. John Lewis’ online tradealso grew by 36.1 per cent. “John Lewistraded well ahead of expectations, withjohnlewis.com growing at twice themarket rate and excellent growth infashion,” said the chairman of the JohnLewis Partnership, Charlie Mayfield.

DIXONS SALES RISE SLIGHTLYDixons Retail's total group and like-forlike sales were up three per cent for the12 weeks ending July 24th. The retailgiant, still technically known as DSGI,claimed its UK operation gained marketshare thanks to the World Cup and theiPad. Total internet sales were up 12 percent, apparently driven by ‘multichannel’and reserve and collect’. The partnershipwith Phones4U is also taking shape, withthe group announcing that 50 mobilestore-in-stores to be open in time forChristmas.

KESA ELECTRICALS ENJOY A Q1REVENUE BOOST

Kesa Electricals has revealed that it grewits revenue by 8.2 per cent during thefirst quarter, driven by a successfulcampaign to push HD and 3D TV salesduring the World Cup. In addition, thecompany experienced 28 per centgrowth in web generated sales, withstrong double digit increases in allmarkets, especially France.

Distributed by

Koch Media have been working with Kaspersky Labs or over ear and the a a cr cia art in or ng o r brand

within the retail, online and independent sectors

Welcome to theGreen Zone

Kaspersky Internet Security 2011& Anti-Virus 2011

Come to PC Indie for all your Kaspersky 2011 requirementswww.PCindie.com

COMING SOON : Kaspersky MicroSite launching Nov 2010

NEW

e rad eyc ng ead o etail

OTTERY is now in its eighth year andcontinues to be the neighbourhood‘one stop shop’ for small businessoperators and the home office user.

“We provide local essential officesupplies, products and services frompens and paper to all computer-relatedequipment,” says MD Alan Stacey.

In this ever-changing environmentStacey is continually looking for newways to improve the service andproduct range. Ottery currently has astaff of six, who Stacy claims are allenthusiastic in their approach tocustomer service and always preparedto go the extra mile.

The main face behind the counter isMaggie Stacey, who looks after thestationery and consumables side of the business.

Since Ottery was founded in 2002,many improvements have been made tothe shop floor area and layout of thedisplays. The workshop can handlerepairs of up to five PCs and threelaptops at any one time, and the storehas plans to improve the workspace sothat it makes workflow more efficient.

“We are extremely proud of ourmain PC repair technician, TomHeath, as he is not only very good atwhat he does, but he has done teststudies for Gigabyte and had resultspublished,” Stacey comments.

Recently, Ottery has also introduceda t-shirt, mouse mat and mug printingservice. In August, the store also beganselling pay as you go VodafoneCameraphone Zone devices.

RETAIL FOCUS �

OTTERY OFFICE & COMPUTER

This month Roger Humm talks to Alan Stacey,managing director of Ottery Office and Computer in Devon…

Indie Profile

FACT BOX

Year established: 2002

Number of outlets: 1Number of staff: 6

Regular vendor lines: AMD,Brother, Canon, Epson, Gigabyte,HP, Intel, JetTec, Microsoft,Solwise & Sony

Contact name and address:Alan Stacey, Ottery Office &Computer Limited, 28 Mill Street,Ottery St. Mary, Devon EX11 1AD

Telephone: 01404 814 946

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.otteryoffice.com

Roger Humm is Head ofMembership Relations atBrigantia Computer Experts –[email protected]

www.pcr–online.biz

I HAD been looking around the Tec 7 section ofthe store for a few minutes and couldn’t see anyHDD units anywhere, when I was approached by amember of staff who politely asked whether Ineeded any assistance.

I told him what I was after and he retrieved a1TB Toshiba external hard drive from behind thesales desk, costing £89.99. He told me this was theonly one in stock.

“I would like the option to stream movies andmusic if possible,” I said. He said it wasn’t sureanything like that was available. A colleagueremarked that he thought I would probably beable to find one in the local Currys.

HOUSE OF FRASER - TEC7

RETAIL FOCUS � MYSTERY SHOPPER

40 PCR October www.pcr–online.biz

SolihullThis month our ever-hard-to-pleaseMystery Shopper is looking for anexternal hard drive to back up mediaand data, and potentially streamcontent to a TV…

The first assistant tapped busily away on theinternet to search for a product fitting myrequirements. “I’ve found one on Play.com, its a1TB multimedia HDD unit by Dane-Elec for£119.99,” he said.

During my visit I received little in the way ofuseful information regarding external hard drives,and I was a little shocked to find a sales personopenly referencing an online shopping site ratherthan talking up thebenefits of what they hadavailable in store. Helpfulto me, but maybe not tothe Tec 7 bottom line.

www.pcr–online.biz October PCR 41

>>>

Turn the page for moreMystery Shopper results

PC WORLD

I HAD a good look at the range of HDDs displayedin three distinct areas of the store. There was apromotional aisle end stocked with Seagate modelsand standard shelves containing multiple boxedproducts from Iomega, Western Digital, EMTEC,Slingbox and Netgear. Above this was an out of boxdisplay, which allowed customers to handle units.

Memory sizes ranged from 320GB to 4TB andprices were between £44.99 and £389.99. Netgear’sEVA9100 Digital Express Media Player (£99.97) andEVA9150 Digital Entertainment Elite Media Player(discounted £180 to £149.97) were highlighted on aseparate aisle end.

A sales assistant approached me, but didn’t ask anyquestions as to what I might want an external harddrive for, so I explained. With this information heproceeded to tell me that “using them is as easy asdragging and dropping”, assuming I understood whathe meant. I hinted at the potential for streamingmedia and my concerns with protection, to which themember of staff reviewed the packaging and recitedthe key relevant points from each, stopping at theIomega HD Media Player and informing me thiswould be suitable. I specifically asked about the greatoffer being made on the EVA9150, with its megasaving of £180. All he said was, “Yeah, looks like itwill do it”, as he looked at the back of the box – butno further information followed.

This was a disappointing visit. With a wealth ofproducts and no particular budget, the options wereendless – I would have loved to have heard aboutdata encryption, or maybe streaming to a separatecomputer when I am awayfrom home. The potentialto get me excited aboutthese products wascompletely missed.

SCORE

5/10

TESCO

I EASILY found the HDD display at the end of anaisle. As I began to examine the range a member ofstaff came over, but rather than asking if I neededany help, he promptly picked up a crate and beganreplenishing the shelves.

After a brief search I found a trio of salesassistants gathered together, so I approached them.One of them walked back to the HDD display withme. “Would you want the HDD to be portable?” heasked. “The more portable devices are smaller andneater in style and would only need a USB cable topower them. The larger units are more for desktopusage and need to be plugged in.” I replied that Isimply wanted the best option.

The sales assistant informed me that he feltWestern Digital was probably the best brand becauseof the reviews on the Tesco website. “The reviews areindependent – you can visit the site and read whatreal customers thought about their purchase andexperiences,” he told me, adding that he himselfused a WD hard drive and had had no problems.

I asked about protection, and he started to look forthe relevant information on the display models,which was not easy as they were all in plastic cases.He couldn’t find anything about security on the WDproducts, so we looked at other brands. Both Hitachiand Iomega clearly stated how the user could back upcontent and create password protection if needed.

The staff member helping me was knowledgeableand happy to offer his experience in support of asale. He asked questions to ascertain my needs andthe product range available was comparable to otherstores. The combination oflow prices and theinformation providedwould have definitelyencouraged me to buy.

SCORE

7/10SCORE

4/10


JOHN LEWIS

THE HDD display was clearly signposted, if a littleuntidy. The available products included Omega andLaCie, with prices ranging from £49.99 to £129.99,and sizes from 320GB to 1TB.

An assistant came over and offered his help.Once he understood what I was asking for, herecommended Iomega products as they’d receivedpositive reviews in Which? reports. “If you want tostream media you have stored, an Xbox might be thebest option. You’ll need the Media Centre Extenderkit to do this though – a quick search on theinternet will explain what you need.”

I found all this interesting but what I needed wasalready on the shelf and hadn’t been spotted – theOmega Screen Play HD Media Player 1TB priced at£129.99. Finally noticing the relevant product, themember of staff talked me through the informationdescribed on the packaging. “This could be a viablealternative to an Xbox,” he said.

I had hoped for more detail during myconversation – useful information regarding theWhich? Award winners and what made them thebest was not offered. With thevariety of products available Iexpected much more and feltthis was definitely a missedsales opportunity.

SCORE

4/10

COMET

AFTER I requested some assistance from thecustomer service desk, an assistant came overlooking keen and eager to offer his advice. “Goodafternoon, I understand you would like help withhard drive products,” he said.

Viewing the HDD display, he pointed out a 1TBIomega model. “If you wanted to stream anythingyou would need to go for an HDD with media drivecapability,” I was told. This simply meant I couldconnect it to a TV or Laptop using an HDMI cableand be able to view, watch or listen to whatever wasstored on it.

“The Iomega range offers reliability and goodvalue, and the other brands wouldn’t be able toconnect up like Iomega. For instance, if you chose aWestern Digital unit you would need a separatestreaming device as well,” the sales assistant said.

I prompted him to advise me about what sort ofprotection I might get with an HDD device. Hereassured me that nearly all of them came with back-up protection and password protection if needed.

The information I received was simple and to thepoint. I was given appropriateadvice that met my request andI would have purchased, but Iwould have liked an overview ofa few products in more detail.

SCORE

8/10

THE PRODUCTS in this Store were in protectivecases to prevent theft, but the hazy plastic stopped mefrom reading anything about them. I browsed thedisplay, looking at Seagate, Western Digital andIomega products with prices from £39.99 to £199.99,and sizes from 250GB to 1TB.

I located a member of staff and he began by askingsimple questions as to why I wanted a HDD and what Iwould do with it. He explained that Western Digital wasthe favoured range in Currys and most stores carried agood selection. After I enquired about streaming media,I was told that all the WD units in stock only had USBports and I would need an HDMI connection or wi-fi.“Netgear has brought out a new wireless storage boxwith HDD,” he suggested. “We don’t have it in stockhere but I’m sure the Wednesbury store would have it,or PC World over the road.”

I asked about protecting and backing up my data.The assistant pointed out what was on the boxes –that most of them had password protection andbackup facilities. He didn’t elaborate any further.

I was given reasonable advice regarding the WDproducts, but no comparisons were made to otherbrands. Storage size was nevermentioned despite themember of staff knowing Iwas going to store movies.

This Mystery Shop was conducted by infinite Field MarketingSolutions, a leading provider of field marketing services to thetechnology sector.

The solutions provided include Training, Market Research,Mystery Shopping, Demonstration Days, Roadshows,Merchandising and Compliance & Data Capture.Visit our website for details and to request a Case Study.

SCORE

6/10

With a wide variety of external hard drives tochoose from it was interesting to see that only a fewselected brands were recommended by store staff.Many of the sales assistants I spoke to found itnecessary to read information directly from theproduct packaging, which in the dedicated storeswas more than a little disappointing.

Currys’ apparent favour towards Western Digitalproducts was interesting, particularly as the devicesdidn’t cover all my needs. Meanwhile, John Lewis’recommendation of an Xbox when I had gone infor an HDD was somewhat bizarre, considering thatthe store did stock exactly the sort of product I waslooking for. Tesco put on a good show – they could

take on the dedicated stores with a little morefocus, but Comet was the obvious winner, with adecent solution backed up by good knowledge andstraightforward conversation.

Over all, the visit was slightly disappointing, anda few of the stores could have stocked a widerrange of HDDs.

[SUMMARY]



CURRYS

© Copyright VIP Computer Centre Limited. 2010. Information correct at time of publication E&OE

Contact the VIP Sales team on 0871 622 7500 or buy online at www.vip-computers.com/uk

THE NEW ARRIVALS...now showing at vip computers

PCR’s monthly look at recent developments in the hardware market

DISPLAYSFollowing a major drive for HDadoption and the introduction ofinnovative technologies such as 3D,the display market has enjoyed areturn to growth. PCR takes a lookat this flourishing sector

P 55

Hardware

DIGITAL STORAGEAs the digital storage marketdiverges between cloud andhardware-based solutions, weexamine key products in thisimportant and changing market

P 47

GFKHaving observed a 200 per cent rise overthe last year, GfK’s account executiveMehryar Hamid looks at the reasons behindthe growth of ther media gateway andnetwork accessed storage market

P 62

Sales: 0871 622 7500www.vip-computers.com/uk

AMD Phenom™ II X6 1055T AM3 Processor AMD Phenom™ II X6 1090T AM3 Processor Black Edition

© C

opyr

ight

VIP

Com

pute

r Cen

tre L

imite

d. 2

010.

In

form

atio

n co

rrect

at t

ime

of p

ublic

atio

n E&

OE

Cases CPUs Displays Flash Memory Hard Drives Networking Notebooks Peripherals Software Video Cards



Why is it Important to Buy a Notebook Cooler? A notebook cooler isn’t an expensive investment, but it could turn out to be an expensive mistake if not purchased...

By keeping a notebook cool, its lifespan can be prolonged by preventing the adverse effects of heat from happening. Not only that, but a cooler notebook is a better performing notebook – heat causes notebooks to stutter and struggle. With a Notebook Cooler, these issues are addressed, and what’s more, notebook coolers offer valuable extra margin.

Antec offer the most complete range of Notebook Coolers on the market, check out these great prices:

Why Choose Antec for your Next Power Supply? When it comes to power supplies, Antec know what they are doing. They make power supply units for laptops and desktops, and also have a range of Notebook Power Adapters. Make sure you take advantage of some great prices:

Notebook Cooler Mini - VIP Code: 102630

USB powered 80mm blower quietly cools & fits notebooks up to 17”.CALL FORPRICING

Notebook Cooler Designer - VIP Code: 102631

110mm blower quietly operates at 800RPM & fits Mac or PC notebooks up to 15”.

CALL FORPRICING

Notebook Cooler - VIP Code: 0489

Low power consumption, USB powered cooler operates at just 25.9dB.

CALL FORPRICING

Notebook Cooler S - VIP Code: 173556

Light weight, low power consumption, USB powered cooler.CALL FORPRICING

Notebook Cooler 200 - VIP Code: 100458

200mm Antec Big Boy fan with 2 speed settings & blue LED illumination.

CALL FORPRICING

NP 100-GB Notebook Power Adapter (100W) – VIP Code: 255608

A versatile notebook power adapter that works with virtually any notebook.

CALL FORPRICING

NP 90-GB Notebook Power Adapter (90W) - VIP Code: 102627

Compatible with models from Dell, Toshiba, Acer, HP, Sony, Fujitsu, Compaq, ASUS & more.

CALL FORPRICING

NP 65-GB Notebook Power Adapter (65W) - VIP Code: 102628

Compatible with models from Dell, Toshiba, Acer, HP, Sony, Fujitsu, Compaq, ASUS & more.

CALL FORPRICING

Notebook Accessories, Prices Worth taking Note of!

VIP Order Code: 100458

VIP Order Code: 255608

WHEN SONY announced earlier thisyear that it intends to stop sellingfloppy disks in March 2011, most of usshared a nostalgic smile, before giving acollective shrug and asking, ‘so what?’The technology has become soirrelevant that many were unaware thatthe 3.5-inch disks were still being sold.

The obvious reason for floppy disks’banishment to the world of defuncttechnologies – along with CRTmonitors and cassette tapes – has beenthe rise of newer alternatives.

According to IDC, the external diskstorage market experienced 18.6 percent year-on-year growth in the firsthalf of 2010, which the analyst firm

believes shows ‘continued customerinvestment and importance’ placed onthe external memory market.

While many consumers now keep anexternal hard drive at home forbacking up important documents andmedia files, the most common storageproduct is undoubtedly the USB flashdrive, with everyone from schoolchildren to professionals carrying one.

“The advantage of USB sticks is thatthey can be used anywhere. They are asmall, safe and secure way to transferdata from one computer to another orsimply to back up important data,” saysRealtime Distribution’s productmanager Daniel Bennett.

What if it gets lost? Here in the UK,the Government and public sectorbodies seem to lose the personal dataof hundreds of Brits on a worryinglyfrequent basis, with a lost USB stickbeing blamed more than once.

Bennett says that files on encryptedUSB sticks are as protected as ‘paper ina safe’, but another growing alternativeis cloud-based storage. The worldwidestorage software market generatedrevenues of nearly $3 billion in Q2 thisyear, up 3.3 per cent on the sameperiod in 2009, IDC figures show.While this does seem like impressiveyear-on-year growth, it isa 2.3 per cent decrease >>>

“The advantage of USBsticks is that they can beused anywhere. They area small, safe and secure

way to transfer datafrom one computer toanother or simply to

back up important data.”Daniel Bennett,

Realtime Distribution

The external storage market is at an interesting stage. Many users are turning to the cloud to keep theirfiles safe, while others remain dedicated to physical backup solutions. Nicky Trup takes a look at thischanging sector…

[ ]FUJITSU 500GB 3.5-INCHEXTERNAL HARD DRIVE

SRP: £31.50Distributor: KMS Components

They say: Fujitsu Siemens HDD andstorage device technology continuesto push mobile PCs, automotiveapplications and consumer electronicdevices to new performance heights

Specs: 500GB capacity, USBinterface, 7200rpm rotation speed,32MB cache


HARDWARE � STORAGE SOLUTIONS

CONTACTS

CMS Peripherals: 020 8960 6000

EntaTech: 0333 101 1000

Gem Distribution:01279 822 822

Hama: 0845 230 4262

Interactive Ideas:020 8805 1000

KMS Components: 02920 713 713

Meroncourt:01462 680060

Peak Development: 01489 796979

Realtime Distribution: 01480 435 881

Spire Technology: 01202 828444

VIP Computers: 0871 622 7500

Memory games

from Q1 2010, perhapsrepresenting a wariness

from some customers.Paul Turner, sales manager at Spire

Technology, agrees that physical andcloud storage are likely to be used side-by-side. “Demand for storage size isincreasing. With growing confidence inthe cloud and storage limits keeping upwith this demand, I feel the two willcomplement each other,” he comments.“I think businesses are hesitant aboutposting confidential information in the

cloud. This will change when overallconfidence grows in security.”

“In my experience people prefer tokeep a hard copy on a USB stick. Thismeans they don’t have to go online toaccess the data, and ensures that thefiles are secure and not in cloudstorage, which is open to hackers,”adds Lucy Newcombe, KMSComponents’ purchasing productmanager and memory specialist.

However, potential security threatsare not the only drawback to some

online storage services. “Certain cloudstorage facilities have restrictions onfile sizes,” notes VIP product managerDarren Jackson. “Until people havefibre access at home, and until theycan truly benefit from super fastbroadband, I believe storing data onHDDs or flash will continue.”

Storage products are not just forbacking up documents and files.Memory cards are an invaluableaccessory to digital cameras. Leadingmemory vendors SanDisk and Kingston

>>>



[` ]BUFFALO TECHNOLOGY MINISTATION LITE

SRP: £59.99 (320GB), £79.99 (500GB)Distributor: Meroncourt, EntaTech

They say: Store, back up and transport digitalimages, music and other files without taking upspace on your PC’s hard drive

Specs: USB powered, 320GB and 500GBcapacities, automatic sync option and both PCand Mac compatible

[ ]SANDISK MICROSD AND MICROSDHC

SRP: £7.99 (2GB) – £143.99 (32GB)Distributors: Gem Distribution, Peak, Hama

They say: About a quarter of the size of an SD card,specifically designed for use with ultra-small mobilephones and other devices

Specs: Available in five sizes from 2GB to 32GB, canwithstand a ten-foot drop, compatible with a rangeof devices

[ ]SANDISK ULTRA BACKUP

SRP: £26.99 (8GB) – £177.99 (64GB)Distributors: Gem Distribution, Peak, Hama

They say: The first USB flash drive with abackup button. No wires. No fuss. Just an easierway to protect your favourite photos, videos,songs and more

Specs: Available in four sizes from 8GB to 64GB,password protection, AES hardware encryptionand backup button

[ ]ACRONIS TRUE IMAGE HOME 2011

SRP: £39.95Distributors: Gem Distribution, Interactive Ideas,CMS Peripherals

They say: Designed to make backing up andrecovering files, folders, email, Windows 7libraries, or even a user’s complete system, easierthan before

Specs: Online backup, drag and drop shortcut,integrated with Windows 7, wizards and one-clickprotection to help users configure the bestsettings for their needs

“People prefer to keepa hard copy on a USBstick. This means they

don’t have to go onlineto access data, and

ensures that files are secure and not in

cloud storage, which isopen to hackers.”

Lucy Newcombe, KMS

[ ]CORSAIR FLASH VOYAGER GTR

SRP: £84.99 (32GB), £259.99 (128GB)Distributor: Realtime Distribution

They say: Rugged, stylish, compact, and reliable– ideal for transporting MP3s, digital images,presentations and more

Specs: Available in 32GB and 128GB capacities,up to 34MB/s read speed, up to 28MB/s writespeeds, rugged design, USB 2.0 and 1.1 compatible

[ ]CORSAIR FLASH SURVIVOR – 32GB

SRP: £84.99Distributor: Realtime Distribution

They say: Flash Survivor is an extremelydurable, water resistant, drop-tested flash USBmemory drive

Specs: 32GB capacity, encased in aircraft-gradealuminium, water resistant to 200m, vibrationand impact protection, USB extension cable anddog tags included

[ ]

believe the most excitingdevelopment in the sector

has been the introduction of extendedcapacity SD memory cards. “The bignews in the card storage market is theSDXC standard, which breaks thecapacity limitations of SDHC. With acapacity of 32GB, the limit for thesecards is now set at 2TB. Big amounts ofdata require fast speeds to transfer it inreasonable time and to provide theability to seamlessly capture extremelyhigh quality content,” says Steve Hall,

Kingston Technology’s EMEA productdevelopment manager.

“The new SD card is ideal forcapturing and storing massive 1080phigh-definition video files andtransferring them quickly to acomputer,” adds SanDisk’s regionalmarketing manager, Nikki Willcock.

The storage sector is also set to cash inon the tablet boom. “The ultra-thintablet and mobile computer marketsare expected to experience tremendousgrowth over the coming years, and

advanced platforms will introduce newrequirements for storage solutions,”suggests Willcock. “The new embeddedSSDs are smaller than a postage stampand offer higher capacities andperformance than existing storagesolutions. The SanDisk iSSD is designedfor use in tablet PCs and ultra-thinnotebooks.”

As demand for more content andmedia grows, so too it seems, has theindustry’s ability to provide new waysof storing it.

>>>

[ ]KINGSTON DATATRAVELER 102 – 8GB

SRP: £12.99Distributor: Spire Technology, EntaTech

They say: For quick and convenient storage, sharingand transferring of data

Specs: 8GB capacity, plug and play, five-year warranty

[ ]SANDBERG FINGERPRINT HARD DISK BOX 2.5

SRP: £24.99Distributor: Interactive Ideas

They say: A unique way of ensuring that only youhave access to your personal data and information

Specs: USB 2.0 interface, supports 2.5-inch HDDs,aluminium material with plastic frame, fingerprintverification and backup button

[ ]LIVEDRIVE ONLINE BACKUP

SRP: £36Distributor: VIP Computers

They say: Takes minutes to install, and works silentlyin the background to backup your files as you work

Specs: Online backup, no limit on storage space orbandwidth, secure web portal, military gradeencryption, easy restore at any time, both PC andMac compatible

[ ]ISTORAGE DISKGENIE

SRP: From £79Distributor: CMS Peripherals

They say: The world’s most secure, compact andaffordable portable hard drive

Specs: Available in five sizes from 250GB to750GB, 128 or 256-bit AES hardware encryption,PIN code access, USB 2.0 connection, brute forcehack defence, allows up to ten passkeys

SEAGATE FREEAGENT GO – 1TB

SRP: £116.60Distributor: VIP Computers

They say: The ultimate portable storagesolution with the world’s first hard drive dockingstation for easy access to all your stuff

Specs: 2.5-inch external HDD, 1TB capacity,USB 2.0 interface, automatic backup andencryption technology

[ ]CNM MISTRAL 250GB 2.5-INCHEXTERNAL HARD DRIVE


They say: Easy installation and lightweightdesign makes the Mistral drive an excellentpartner for all your portable storage needs

Specs: 250GB capacity, 5400rpm rotationspeed, 8MB cache, includes over £90 worth offree software

“The ultra-thin tabletand mobile computermarkets are expected

to experiencetremendous growth

over the coming years,and advanced

platforms will introducenew requirements for

storage solutions.”Nikki Willcock, SanDisk



GET THE

ADVANTAGE.

Multi award-winning product range

AS SEEN ON TV

141% IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A4 AND A3. NOT MUCH. BUT THIS AUTUMN, IT CAN MAKE A BIGGER DIFFERENCE THAN EVER TO YOUR SALES.

Not only is the A3 market continuing to grow, but Brother is investing €10 million across Europe on a fully integrated campaign (including TV, press, outdoor, online and more) to promote the highly successful A3 multifunction inkjet printer range to small business owners.

The campaign will tell customers just how much of a difference affordable A3 printing, faxing, copying and scanning can make to their business – and with demand about to take off even more, it’s a great opportunity to make a big difference to your business too.

brother141.com

Don’t miss out on your 141% sales opportunity, order stock today.

can make a big differenceA3

www.ingrammicro.comTEL: 0871 973 3000

www.jgbm.co.uk TEL: 01752 33 00 44

www.micro-p.comTEL: 01256 70 70 70

www.midwich.comTEL: 01379 649 200

www.northamber.comTEL: 020 8296 7066

www.spicers.co.ukTEL: 0844 238 0000

www.voweurope.comTEL: 0800 988 8844

Due to the company’s policy of constant improvement, the company reserves the right to alter specification.“Exspect” and the Exspect logos” are registered trademarks of GEM Distribution Ltd. All trademarks and copyrights are property of their respective owners.

‘iPhone” is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. This product is not licensed or endorsed by Apple Inc.

www.exspect.co.uk

UK - 01782 74 87 32 Non UK - 0044 1782 74 87 21

life & soul

DESPITE WHAT some may think, thePC display sector is alive and well.According to GfK Retail andTechnology, over two million unitswere sold in the UK in 2009, andfigures for the second quarter of 2010suggest sales were up slightly on thesame period last year.

As new technologies mature and awider selection of quality content

becomes available, users will look toupgrade their displays. The biggest newtech to really break through in 2010 hasundoubtedly been 3D, with every majorname vendor rushing to talk it up andprovide the hardware and software tocater to this growing market.

According to Gary Baldwin, Asus’LCD country product manager, thereare now over 400 games that work with

3D vision, with publishers like EAheavily investing in the sector. “Theforecasts for 3D TVs is 2.5 millionunits in 2010, growing to 27 million in2013. This is a clear indication that 3Dis here to stay,” he says.

Midwich business manager LeeBaker agrees: “Our consumerelectronics division isdoing a roaring trade in >>>

“3D will becomemainstream very soon,but not with glasses. Iam confident that thetechnology to bypass

glasses will be availablein the near future.”

Asad Verona, Bluepoint

With new technologies such as 3D and multi-monitor gaming moving from niche markets into themainstream, the PC monitor sector is set to cash in. Nicky Trup takes a look…

[ ]SAMSUNG BX2240W LED MONITOR

SRP: £184Distributor: Midwich

They say: Stunning, seamless motionimaging presents movies, games, andinternet streamed content withprecision and without motion judder,blurring or ghosting

Specs: 22-inch LED monitor, 5msresponse time, 1680 x 1050 resolution,ultra-slim design


HARDWARE � DISPLAYS

CONTACTS

BLUEPOINT:0844 571 8001

HANNSG:0871 666 0850

KMS COMPONENTS:02920 713713

MIDWICH:01379 649200

SPIRE TECHNOLOGY:01202 828444

VIP COMPUTERS:0871 622 7500

All on display



HANNSG HZ281

SRP: £279DISTRIBUTOR: Direct

They say: Displays HDcontent in its true entirety,delivering crisp, sharp imageswithout lag for the bestmultimedia experience

Specs: 28-inch widescreen,active matrix TFT, 1920 x1200 resolution, glossy blackfinish, anti-glare surface

HANNSG HL231

SRP: £159Distributor: Direct

They say: Combines the energy efficiency and design advantages of LEDtechnology with HannsG’s own proprietary display technologies

Specs: 23-inch widescreen TFT display, LED backlight, 17.5mm thick,unique sloping design on the back, black mirror finish, anti-glare surface,1920 x 1080 resolution

ACER ASPIRE GD245HQ 3D MONITOR

SRP: £305Distributor: Bluepoint

They say: The radical design, ultra-highperformance and immersive 3D visuals takegaming to the next dimension

Specs: 23.6-inch widescreen LCD display, 3D-ready, TFT active matrix, 1920 x 1080 resolution,2ms response time, inbuilt stereo speakers

[ ]

[ ]

3D televisions and peripherals. Interms of PC displays, gaming is clearlya big market opportunity and Nvidiahas already been pushing it for sometime,” he notes.

The Consumer ElectronicsAssociation is currently working withleading manufacturers including Sonyand Samsung to create a universalstandard for infrared active shutterglasses, so they can be used

interchangeably across all brands. Thetrade body recently told PCR that thetechnology would not have mass-market appeal until this was achieved,but Bluepoint’s product manager AsadVerona takes the idea even further.

“3D will become mainstream verysoon, but not with glasses,” he claims.“I am confident that the technology tobypass glasses will be available in thenear future.”

Indeed, Philips and Dutch firmDimenco showcased their glasses-free3D technology at the IFA show inBerlin last month, promising aprofessional display for sale within thecoming months.

Martin Kent, Hannspree UK’sterritory manager for the UK andNorthern Europe, believes that while3D will be the future of the displaysector, there are plenty of advantages to

the current generation of products.“LED technology allows for lowerpower consumption [than LCD], andLED displays have less hazardous andmore recyclable materials to cater forthe environmentally-friendly markettrend,” he comments. “LEDtechnology also helps to reduce theoverall thickness of a monitor, whichtranslates into betterlooking, slimmer designs.”

>>>

>>>

[ ]

HANNSG HW173A

SRP: £74Distributor: Bluepoint

They say: Bursts with delicious images in vibrantcolours and compelling brilliance

Specs: 17-inch LCD widescreen, active matrixTFT, 1440 x 900 resolution, anti-glare surface

[ ]

One technology that is seeing itspopularity grow among dedicatedgamers is multi-monitor gaming. KMSComponents’ product manager anddisplay specialist Kie Cooper says techsuch as ATI’s Eyefinity, which wasunveiled last year, can give players acompetitive edge.

“Eyefinity allows the field of view to bespread across three or more monitors,giving greater scope,” he says. “For themore avid gamer, by combining Eyefinity

with ATI’s Crossfire technology, this canbe expanded across a panel of up to an24 monitors.”

But the market for monitors is, ofcourse, not limited to gamers andhome PC users. According to Verona,some features appeal more to theeducation sector. “Schools look forhard glass over the normal screens toavoid damage by students. It also hasbetter visibility compared to normalscreens,” he says.

Kent adds: “We put great efforts intoR&D to tackle niche requirements.HannsG is one of the onlymanufacturers to produce hard glassmonitor solutions, which offerprotection from wear and tear,ultimately increasing a monitor’s lifespan. These monitors are favouriteswith schools and establishments withpublic computer suites, such as libraries,which endure a lot ofprodding and poking. >>>

“Schools look for hardglass over the normal

screens to avoiddamage by students.

It also has better visibility compared to

normal screens.”Martin Kent, Hannspree



ASUS VG236H


They say: Enter an immersive three-dimensional fullHD 1080p world of games and movies

Specs: 23-inch widescreen monitor, 3D-ready , 1920x 1080 resolution, 2ms response time, compatiblewith Nvidia 3D Vision kit

[ ]

HKC 2219A 21.6-INCH LCD MONITOR


Specs: 21.6-inch widescreen LCD display, 1920 x 1080 resolution, 2msresponse time, multimedia speakers, 16.7 million colours

[ ]

HKC 2249A 23.6-INCHLCD MONITOR


SPECS: 23.6-inch widescreenLCD display, 1920 x 1080resolution, 2ms response time,multimedia speakers, 16.7million colours

[ ]

ASUS VH242H


They say: Asus Smart Contrast Ratio Technologyautomatically adjusts the luminance of the backlight forbetter displays according to the image contents

Specs: 23.6-inch widescreen LCD display, 1920 x 1080resolution, glossy piano-black front bezel, built-in stereospeakers, cable manager, game mode brings up hard-to-see areas

[ ]

“There are many additionalmonitor markets, nearly all of whichhave specific requirements. Otherfields of application include militaryand industrial, which have setstandards that have to be met whenmaking purchasing decisions.”

In terms of the basic selling pointsof any monitor, VIP Computers’product manager Mark Lynch claims it tends to come down to twokey aspects – resolution and response time.

“With more and more peoplewatching movies on their PCs,monitor resolutions that support full

HD movies are becoming a must.And with gaming becoming morepopular, and games becoming so fastpaced, response times have to be fastto keep up,” he says.

“Other than screen size, the majorselling points of PC displays includemultimedia capabilities, connectivity,ergonomics, response rates, contrastand USPs such as robust hard glass,LED technology and energy savinginnovations,” adds Baker. “It is veryimportant that retailers can clearlyexplain the benefit of choosing adisplay for its features andfunctionality rather than its price.”

EDGE 10 T193 19-INCH WIDESCREEN LCD MONITOR

SRP: £120Distributor: Spire Technology, Bluepoint

They say: The ideal monitor for schools and colleges thatneed an affordable widescreen LCD monitor with toughenedglass

Specs: 19-inch widescreen TFT LCD monitor, 5ms responsetime, 1440 x 900 resolution, integrated speakers, VGAinterface


HARDWARE � GRAPHICS CARDS

[ ]EDGE 10 T171 17-INCH LCD MONITOR

SRP £139.83Distributor: Spire Technology

They say: The special glass improves the visualexperience to the user by raising the colour intensityand enhancing the sharpness of the image.

Specs: 17-inch TFT LCD display, 8ms response time,1280 x 1024 resolution, integrated speakers, VGAand DVI interface

[ ]

IIYAMA PROLITE LED E2472HDD


THEY SAY: Combines all the benefits andimprovements LED technology offers,including energy saving, panel uniformityand improved life expectancy

SPECS: 24-inch LED HD display, 1920 x1080 resolution, 2ms response time,slimline design, triple input connectivity

LG M197WD


They say: You’ll get the most from your monitor whether you’re using it fora TV or PC, listening to music, gaming, or watching films

Specs: 19-inch LCD Monitor, widescreen format, 1366 x 766 resolution,built-in Freeview, two HDMI inputs, multimedia speaker, 5ms response time

[ ]

[ ]

Lexar Media The most comprehensive portfolio of premium memory solutions

You can have it if you buy Crucial™ or Crucial Ballistix™ DRAM modules and Lexar® Echo SE or ZE Drives from these distributors.*

* Terms and conditions may apply please visit http://www.lexarmediapartners.com/en/PCRetail.html

Authorised Distributors:

©2010 Lexar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Information is subject to change without notice. Lexar, the Lexar logo, JumpDrive and When Memory Matters are trademarks of Lexar Media, Inc. Crucial, and the Crucial logo are trademarks of Micron Technology, Inc. All other trademarks, registered trademarks and service marks are property of their respective owners. Lexar Media, Inc. is a subsidiary of Micron Technology, Inc. Promotion participants will be responsible for all taxes. Award recipients waive any and all claims of liability and hereby release, indemnify and hold harmless Lexar Media, Inc. and its affi liates, subsidiaries, distributors, advertising and promotional

agencies for any loss, accident or injury occurring as a result or consequence of this program or any award received through the program. Lexar Media, Inc. reserves the right to add, modify or delete any of the policies and/or awards at any time, with or without prior notice. No substitutions allowed. Neither Lexar Media, Inc. nor Crucial is not responsible for omissions or errors in typography or photography.

Call Now or Go Online...

01844 393 065www.lexarmediapartners.com/en/PCRetail.html

SO FAR, 2010 has been a busy year forMeroncourt Europe. Since January thedistributor has added seven newvendors to its portfolio, and is due tolaunch a number of new ranges intothe market before Christmas.

The Hertfordshire-based firm hascome a long way from the early dayswhen it simply acted as a customerservice centre for imaging vendor Agfa.“Michael Mason formed the companyin 1993 and I joined in the first weekas a consultant for the business andI’ve been here every since,” says salesdirector Steve Walsh.

Back then there were only a handfulof staff, but the firm quickly grew as itbegan to offer refurbished Agfaproducts. “That’s when customersstarted asking what else we could sellthem – new stuff and current lines,”says Walsh. “And then [peripheralsvendor] Speedlink approached us andasked if we could represent them in the UK.”

Since signing Speedlink, Meroncourthas landed exclusive deals with vendorsincluding Sitecom, Roccat, Ozone andmore recently Ricatech (see MarketplaceNews, p. 96), as well as a non-exclusiveagreement with storage specialist BuffaloTechnology. So how does the distributorgo about choosing its partners?

“We do a lot of research before wedecide to bring new brands into theUK. Normally they have somethingelse to bring to the market, eithertechnically or visually. It’s no goodbringing in things that look the sameas someone else’s but with a differentbrand label,” Walsh comments. “Thereason Buffalo was interested in us is

that we tend to work in areas that thelarger distributors don’t concentrateon, so it opens up new opportunitiesfor Buffalo products.”

Meroncourt, which moved into itscurrent premises in Letchworth six yearsago, now has 15 employees. The firmshipped over 400,000 units last financial

year, and expects to see about the sameagain this year, if not more. “We’ve gotthe busiest quarter coming up, so wemay well exceed that,” Walsh says.

The distributor’s customer baseranges from independent retailers to e-tail powerhouses Amazon, Play.comand eBuyer, and, thanks in part to itsdrop-shipping facility, covers not only

Europe but countries including theUS, Australia and China.

A large part of Meroncourt’sportfolio consists of PC gamingperipherals, a sector Walsh believes isgoing from strength to strength. “A lotof people said PC gaming would nevergrow because it’s so niche, but inactual fact it’s been one of the fastestgrowing sectors of IT ever and stillcontinues to show a lot of growth,” hesays. “The brands that we representtruly focus on PC gaming itself, sotheir product ranges are aimed at anddesigned for gamers.”

Another sizeable chunk of thedistributor’s business is taken up bystorage and networking devices, butaccording to Walsh the firm isincreasingly turning its attention tolicensed products, with Disney and X Factor lines due later in the year.“Licensed products should be asignificant growth area for us,” Walsh concludes.

“We do a lot of research before we decide tobring new brands into the UK. Normally they have

something else to bring to the market – it’s no good bringing in things that look the same

as someone else’s.”Steve Walsh, Meroncourt

Despite its relatively small size, Meroncourt Europe is aglobal player in the tech channel. From its origins as aprovider of technical support and refurbished imagingproducts, the distributor now offers a broad range ofdevices across a variety of sectors. Commercialdirector Steve Walsh tells Nicky Trup about the firm’srecipe for success…


HARDWARE � MERONCOURT COMPANY PROFILE

Order in the

court


GFK ANALYSIS � HARDWARE

FOLLOWING THE global financialcrisis, which saw consumer andbusiness spending fall significantly,growth in the first six months of 2010was a breath of fresh air. The secondhalf of the year also started on a highnote, with the market up 7.4 per centin value terms, compared to the sametime last year.

A key driver of this growth has beenthe media streaming device market,which includes media gateways andconsumer NAS. Media gateways have

grown in excess of 200 per cent onaverage throughout the past 12months, and is the fastest growingproduct category in the IT market.Growth rates for consumer NAS withmedia have also peaked over the pastyear, averaging at around 70 per cent.

At a time when online content ismultiplying day by day, these devicesthat sit between a television and acomputer, allowing content from oneplatform to be accessed on the other,have been in high demand – especiallyamong technology savvy consumers.

A market which was previously onlyoccupied by a couple of players is nowa dynamic industry with numerousbrands fighting for a slice of theproduct category’s success.

As new brands have entered themarket, the industry has becomeincreasingly competitive – pushingaverage prices down by 35 per centfrom July last year. The average price ofa media gateway now stands at around£65, down from £100 in July 2009.Consumer NAS with media, on theother hand, is priced much higher incomparison to media gateways, givenits ability to store data, but prices forthat have also dropped to £170 fromaround £210 last year.

Given the fact that the productcategories go hand in hand withstorage devices, it is no surprise that upto 95 per cent of sales are dominatedby the computer specialists and massmerchandiser channels. The specialistnature of the products and their appealto tech savvy consumers has resulted inup to 68 per cent of the sales comingfrom online channels.

However, over the past few months,sales have started to trickle through the consumer electronics storeschannel, where most of the high valuesales have been recorded. Thishighlights the fact that the in-storeexperience, coupled with a betterunderstanding of the product category,are key to winning over the majority of customers.

As consumers start getting to gripswith converging product categories and the continuously evolvinglandscape of content availability, thisproduct category is set to skyrocket in the coming months, especially as we move into one of the mostpromising Christmas sales periods inrecent years.

If you would like further detailsplease contact Mehryar Hamid on0870 603 8143.

As our media consumption has increased, devices that facilitate the streaming of content have alsoenjoyed a surge in popularity. GfK’s account executive Mehryar Hamid takes a look…

The rise of content

“A marketwhich waspreviouslyonly occupiedby a couple

of players is now adynamic industry withnumerous brandsfighting for a slice of thecategory’s success.”

Mehryar Hamid

SWEEX started life 33 years ago as asmall local family-owned wholesaleroperating out of the Netherlands.Founded in the Hague, the firm wasoriginally called Ropla, and dealt withelectrical components.

After years of slow but steady growth,the company changed its name to Sweexin 2002, changing it again shortly afterto Sweex Europe. The firm now hasseveral sales offices across the continentand a purchase office in Taiwan.

“The company changed over theyears from being a small localwholesaler to being an importer andfinally a manufacturer of computercomponents, peripherals and

accessories, all under our Sweex brandname,” says CEO Hans Hello.

The firm now deals in a wide rangeof product areas, including brandedperipherals, power adapters, graphicscards, e-readers and tablets. It iscurrently concentrating on growth inEurope, but will be looking to expandacross the rest of the globe later on.

“Our target for the short to medium-term is to strengthen our foothold inthe European marketplace,” commentsHello. “Although the creation of theEU has simplified things and certainlyhas broken down barriers, we see thatEurope still consists of many individualcountries, each with specific

requirements, like for example the UKPower plug. Once we have the feelingour domestic (European) growthpotential is diminishing, we will looktowards other continents.”

In terms of the UK, the firm will besetting up a dedicated building nextyear in order to better serve the region.“Since the UK is historically animportant market for us we have longsince named it as one of our top targetcountries,” says Hello. “In 2011 we planto open a local sales and marketingoffice in the UK, in addition to thelocal representatives we’ve already hadworking for us for a long time. Thisoffice will be targeted to support andfacilitate our growth strategy here.”

As the market appears to be at the tailend of the recession, Hello is optimisticabout sales this Christmas, and even hasan eye on sponsorship within thePremier League here in the UK.

“We will see a rise in spending fromlast year, I expect. The signs that globaland local economies are slowlyrecovering are getting stronger.People will be less hesitant tospend money,” he claims.

“In five years’ time we willbe a strong, well recognisedhousehold brand in computer-related electronics, with a firmposition in the UK market.We will constantly invest inimproving our assortment, inquality as well as design andspecifications. We hope that wewill sponsor a Premier Leagueteam by then. Anypreference?”

Dutch firm Sweex has had a long and successful history in the technology space, and is getting readyto set up a dedicated office here in the UK next year. Andrew Wooden talks to CEO Hans Hello…

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS � SWEEX COMPANY PROFILE

The orange revolution

“In five years’ time wewill be a strong, well

recognised householdbrand in computer-related electronics,

with a firm position inthe UK market.”Hans Hello, Sweex

Sales: 0871 622 7500www.vip-computers.com/uk

�� Intel® Core™ i5 760 Processor

®

®

Intel® Core™ i7 950 Processor

®

®

© C

opyr

ight

VIP

Com

pute

r Cen

tre L

imite

d. 2

010.

In

form

atio

n co

rrect

at t

ime

of p

ublic

atio

n E&

OE

Hans Hello says thefirm will concentrateon the Europeanmarket before lookingfurther afield

Sweex has branchedout into a plethora ofproduct areas, includinggraphics cards

Cases CPUs Displays Flash Memory Hard Drives Networking Notebooks Peripherals Software Video Cards

RT-N16 Wireless RouterVIP Order Code: 102507

EW-7811Un Wireless Nano NICVIP Order Code: 102779

USB-N13 Wireless NICVIP Order Code: 102106

3G-6210n Wireless RouterVIP Order Code: 103244

GA-534W Wireless RouterVIP Order Code: 101943

GN-531U Wireless NICVIP Order Code: 101942

Why VIP for Wireless Networking?Whilst VIP’s name is synonymous with components, we have been working hard over the past few years to build a solid range to address your wireless networking needs. Our brands cover everything from feature packed premium products to price sensitive entry level items, and everything in between. Call our sales team now to find out more.


Contact the VIP sales team on 0871 622 7500 or buy online at www.vip-computers.com/uk

Quality as Standard

Best balance between quality

and price

For Budget Networking

SoftwarePCR’s monthly look at recent developments in the software market

GAMES RELEASESWe take a look at the latest games releases and chart the best selling titlesin the full price and budget categories, as well as provide a full list offorthcoming products to hit shelves over the next few months

p 79

www.pcretailmag.com October PCR 69

SECURITY SOFTWARE

p71

We examine the latest threatdevelopments within the securitysector and talk to some of the marketleading companies to find out howthey are meeting the challenge

BullGuard Internet Security – the new version’s out!The new BullGuard offers superior protection with catch rates you won’t see anywhere else, and minimal intrusion from alerts and pop-ups.

We’ve taken BullGuard to the next level, introducing technology that positions BullGuard as the end user champion in the fight for digital liberation.

We continue to push the envelope to provide advanced technology to everyday users and serve it up in a user-friendly and intuitive design.

One thing hasn’t changed: Our Revenue Share is still the best in the industry at 25% for the life of the product.

Contact your BullGuard distributor today to stock up on BullGuard.

For more information visitwww.bullguard.com/partners

LIKE MOST of the IT market, thesecurity sector is in a state of change.As the number of people who areusing the internet and connecteddevices rises, so does the threat fromcyber-criminals.

According to the latest NortonCybercrime Report, two thirds ofpeople have been a victim of cybercrime and the threat rises every day.These findings are supported byresearch conducted by Germansecurity software firm G Data, whichclaims that during 2010, a record-breaking 1,017,208 new malwareprograms were released in to thepublic domain.

“The biggest threat right now is thetotal amount of malware that is beingcreated: We are receiving 55,000 newmalware samples every single day,”reveals Luis Corrons, technicaldirector of PandaLabs. “Out of these55,000 samples, 70 per cent of themare trojans, with the most dangeroustype being banking trojans.”

BullGuard’s chief technologyofficer, Claus Villumsen, highlightsthe increasingly sophisticated tacticsbeing used by cyber-criminals:“Earlier this year, researchers atGoogle estimated that rogue anti-virus software currently accounts forfifteen per cent of all web-based

malware and that it is growing inprevalence,” he says.

“But perhaps the real threat isRAM scrapers. RAM scrapers havebeen around for years, but very fewpeople have ever heard of them,including people within the securityindustry. They have in fact beenaround for years, but recentindications lead industry analysts tobelieve they may well be the next realthreat in 2010 and 2011.”

In the face of such seeminglyinsurmountable odds, ensuring thesafety of internet users has become amore intensive task than ever before,with many security specialists havingto revolutionise the way they detectand combat malicious algorithms.

“As in many areas of life, publicperception tends to lag behindreality,” observes Kaspersky Labs’

senior security researcher David Emm.“Most people understand the need foranti-virus software to protect theircomputers. However, the use ofsignature-based solutions alone to dealwith today’s complex threats is nolonger sufficient. In recent years, a raftof proactive technologies have beendeveloped and refined in response tothe changing threat landscape.”

The complexity of these newerthreats has led every securitycompany to update their detectionsoftware. PandaLabs, for example,has created a system calledcollective intelligence, whichaccording to Corrons is “anautomatic system, hosted inthe cloud that detects,analyses, classifies andcreates the signature file forevery single new sample wereceive, giving protectionpractically in real timeagainst these new threats.”

Symantec, meanwhile,has opted to take a moreinstantaneous approach.“Security has to bedone in real time andas such we have to


As the world becomes increasinglyconnected, the threat posed byonline scammers, hackers andidentity thieves becomes evermore potent. Matt Grainger talksto some of the industry’s leadingfigures to find out what’shappening in the security world…

SecurityGuards

SOFTWARE � SECURITYCONTACTS

Blue Solutions:0118 9898 222

CMS Peripherals:020 8960 6000

Computer 2000:0871 880 3000

Gem Distribution:01279 822822

EntaTech:0333 101 1000

Koch Media:0870 027 8700

Ingram Micro:0871 973 3000

Micro-P:01282 776776

Northamber:020 8296 7066

Securedis:0845 658 7009

Spire Technology:01202 828444

Target Components:01977 739300

Westcoast:0118 912 6000

“The use of signature-based solutions alone is

no longer sufficient. A raft of proactive

technologies have beendeveloped in response

to the changing threat landscape.”

David Emm, Kaspersky Labs

>>>

Lose the delays, interruptions and frustrationsIntroducing AVG Smart Scanning – not only x3 faster but cleverly only performs scans when the PC is not in use.

Dramatically enhanced, intuitive user interface for less ‘pilot error’.

Enhanced Silent / Game / Movie Mode means protection that won’t get in the way.

PlusSuperior Web Protection – Unique Social Networking Protection.

Enhanced Email Scanner examines every email attachment for threats.

Enhanced AVG 2011 even better at keeping the hackers out and the network secure.

Enhanced LinkScanner® – actively checks web pages in real-time – before you view web pages in your browser.

Enhanced identity protection – Advanced warning of likely or known “scam” sites.

Think there’s little difference between competing Internet Security vendors?Think again. Introducing AVG 2011.

Better protection delivered in a better way means happy customers at work, at home and at play…. And that’s got to be better for your business.

Put People-Powered Protection behind your business and see the difference. Call 01636 658016, email [email protected] or log on to www.avg.co.uk/reseller

New AVG 2011...Protection to the Power of 4 The one brand where a single licence now covers up to four PC’s and one brand that covers every protection need.

[ ]BITDEFENDER TOTAL SECURITY 2011

SRP: £59.99Distributor: Gem Distribution, EntaTech

They say: BitDefender starts working and keepsworking – around the clock and around the globe,continuously protecting your privacy and defendingyour digital world

Features: Proactive protection, privacy safeguards,two-way firewall, parental controls, online backup,webpage flagging

[ ]KASPERSKY PURE

SRP: £69.99Distributor: EntaTech, Gem Distribution, KochMedia, Ingram Micro

They say: Renders your PC highly immune tocyber-threats of any kind

Features: Kaspersky Internet Security functionality,enhanced anti-malware and anti-spam protection,control centre, password manager, advancedparental controls, file shredder, data backup andrestore, data encryption

[ ]NORTON ANTIVIRUS 2011

SRP: £39.99Distributor: Computer 2000, Ingram Micro,Gem Distribution

They say: Detects and eliminates viruses, spyware,and other threats lying in wait to infect your PC, soyou can chat, email, and share files safely

Features: Reputation-based security, proactiveperformance alerts, control centre, pulse updates,IM monitoring

[ ]NORTON INTERNET SECURITY 2011

SRP: £49.99Distributor: Computer 2000, Ingram Micro,Gem Distribution

They say: Helps prevent cybercriminals fromstealing your identity and your hard-earnedmoney when you go online

Features: Parental controls, proactiveperformance alerts, anti-phishing, pulse updates,smart two-way firewall, IM monitoring

[ ]WEBROOT INTERNET SECURITY COMPLETE

SRP: £49.95Distributor: Gem Distribution

They say: Protect your identity, privacy andpersonal information for complete protection athome or on-the-go

Features: Anti-virus, anti-spyware, firewall, onlinesecure storage, system clean-up, fast scanning,password management, identity protection

[ ]ESET MOBILE SECURITY

SRP: £29.95Distributor: Westcoast

They say: Protects your online communications,sensitive data and privacy on the go. It effectivelyeliminates emerging mobile exploits and securitybreaches and keeps your inbox clear of unwantedSMS and MMS messages

Features: Proactive protection, light footprint,fast scanning, SMS anti-spam, remote wipe, SIMmatching, security audit, intelligent firewall,messaging black/white lists


SOFTWARE � SECURITY

make precise, informed decisionsinstantly,” says Con Mallon, Symantec’sNorton product marketing director forEMEA. “Reputation-based security isthe answer. It is a radical new approach.The old model for security was to golooking for the bad stuff and assumethat everything was good. We cannotassume this now. We have to look atevery file that is making its way ontoyour PC and determine its reputation.”

BullGuard, however, has invested intechnology that analyses the behaviourof a piece of software, in a process thatcan identify malicious code before it

harms a PC. “To deal with the volumeand increased complexity, BullGuardhas introduced behaviour-baseddetection of viruses as an addition toour signature-based virus detection.This enables us to counter what in theindustry is known as ‘zero-day attacks’,”explains Villumsen.

Another recent development withinthe security industry has been theacquisition of McAfee by US hardwaregiant Intel. This has two implicationsfor the wider market: Firstly, one of theworld’s largest component buildersconsiders security to be an important

part of any PC, and secondly itprompts the question as to whethersecurity will be an integratedcomponent in the future.

“We believe that IT security is aspecialised business and that specialisedvendors, whose primary focus is insecuring IT systems against maliciouscode threats via any network willsucceed in the long run,” states Emm.

Villumsen is more philosophicalabout Intel’s latest foray in to thesecurity sector: “We believe that Intel’sacquisition of McAfee isgenerally positive for the >>>

“Intel’s acquisition ofMcAfee is generally

positive for the internetsecurity industry. It

demonstrates that Intelsees performance,connectivity and

security as the threepillars of the future

of computing.”Claus Villumsen, BullGuard



[ ]AVG ANTIVIRUS 2011

SRP: £29.99Distributor: Koch Media

They say: If you use your computer every day,you need protection that’s always there,constantly keeping you safe

Features: High-speed scanning, enhanced virusdetection, active surf shield, search-shield, emailscanner, link scanner, anti-virus, anti-spyware,anti-rootkit

[ ]AVG INTERNET SECURITY 2011

SRP: £34.99Distributor: Koch Media

They say: Provides multiple layers of protectionfor everything you do online, which means youdon’t have to worry about identity theft, virusesor visiting harmful sites

Features: Firewall, anti-spam, identity protection,social networking protection, link scanner, onlineshield, smart scanning

[ ]BULLGUARD INTERNET SECURITY

SRP: £44.95Distributor: EntaTech, Gem Distribution, SpireTechnology, Target Components

They say: Introducing technology that positionsBullGuard as the end user champion in the fightfor digital liberation

Features: Antivirus, anti-spyware, anti-phishing,firewall, spam filter, backup, social mediaprotection, behaviour detection, safe browsing,password protection, file inspector

[ ]G DATA ANTIVIRUS 2011

SRP: £24.95Distributor: Securedis

They say: G Data’s best-in-test protection withoutany loss of computing power. Use of self-learningfingerprinting and whitelisting means increasedscan speeds and reduced memory requirements

Features: Proactive detection, behaviour analysis,white listing, light footprint, cloud updates,parental controls, spam block, anti-spyware

[ ]G DATA TOTALCARE 2011

SRP: £39.99Distributor: Securedis

They say: The G Data TotalCare all-in-onesolution is the benchmark security packageagainst which all others should be measured

Features: Virus protection, ‘silent’ firewall, databackup and recovery, security tuning, parentalcontrols, anti-spam, email and messengerprotection, online transaction protection

[ ]SENTRYBAY PERSONAL DATA PROTECTIONSUITE

SRP: £29.99Distributor: CMS Peripherals

They say: Provides the most effective protectionfrom online identity theft by safeguarding allsensitive data entered into websites and proactivelypreventing users from visiting scam phishing sites

Features: Real-time protection against identitytheft, neutralises key logging, PhishLock anti-phishing technology, EntryProtect, data scrambling

internet securityindustry, and certainly

leaves room for other vendors. Webelieve it demonstrates that Intel feelssecurity is an important part of the connected future – so it seesperformance, connectivity and nowsecurity as the three pillars of thefuture of computing.”

However, David Harley, seniorresearch fellow at ESET, notes that thisis not the first time Intel has dipped itstoe in to the security market: “Intel isnot actually a stranger to the anti-virusmarketplace: It sold its previous

corporate-targeting product line toSymantec in the nineties.

“While it’s interesting to see themre-enter that marketplace, I’m not sureit’s an indication of a seismic event, orIntel has had a master plan forintegrating security technology withsome of its other interests. I wouldn’treally expect to see McAfee formotherboards, for instance.

“That said, I’ve always been aproponent of security as built-in ratherthan added on, and security as multi-layered, rather than relying on a singlepoint of success or failure: the days of

up-to-date AV being all you need for ahome system are long over.”

Corrons also feels that the acquisitioncould have long-term benefits for endusers.

“McAfee’s cloud technology has beena key area of interest for Intel, as weknow well; cloud detection has majorbenefits for components if technology isavailable to the manufacturer,” he says.

“My prediction is that developinghardware-enhanced security will be alonger-term focus, enbabling benefits forconsumers, governments andbusinesses.”

Although there are benefits tointegrated security, Webroot’s EMEAconsumer business developmentdirector David Bennett feels that thekey focus must be on the cloud, asusers increasingly store their data andinteract online.

“Intel doesn’t run on all the PCs;the majority of threats are in the websphere. There will still be therequirement for dedicated securitysuites that are able to protect youhowever, and wherever you connectonline,” predicts Bennett. “Defencehas to move into the cloud and sit

>>>



within the broadband infrastructure,giving effectively a ‘clean pipe’ to the users, irrespective of the devicebeing employed.”

With new developments comingfrom both sides of the security divide,it’s clear that the industry is in acontinual state of change as thetechnology develops and the ‘cops androbbers’ seek to gain the upper hand.In addition, as internet usage grows,security is likely to become anincreasingly prominent issue.

“Endpoints remain the principalrepository for the data that is the life-blood of the ‘dark economy’,” notesEmm. “However, the use ofsmartphones is growing steadily. Themore we use them to conduct financialtransactions online the more attractivethey become as a target. We have seen asteady growth in the sophistication ofmobile malware threats and the numberof such threats is likely to increasemoving forward.”

In a similar vein, BitDefender’s UKand Ireland sales director Simon Geachnotes that the increasing use of wirelessnetworks could present problems. “Agood start for the future points ofsecurity would be to secure both wiredand wireless networks. For example,

inside corporations, systemadministrators do a good job atsecuring their premises, but there areplenty of unsecured wireless networksout there that leak confidentialinformation,” he comments.

Harley suggests that the complexnature of modern malware threats hasprompted a range of multifacetedsolutions. “There’s a clear trend awayfrom single layered technologies. Thereisn’t really such a thing as a true anti-virus package any more: even the mostbasic packages cover a whole range ofthreats and nuisances, most of themnon-viral,” he says.

AVG’s vice president of web threatresearch Roger Thompson elaborates: “I think the best products in the futurewill be based around layered defencesinvolving web scanning, behaviourblocking, and traditional signaturescanning. If you adopt this approach,each layer only has to be 80 per centeffective, because the proportion that onelayer misses will be caught by the next.

“Think about Swiss cheese. Eachlayer has lots of holes, but if you placetwo slices on top of each other, theycover up most of the holes. Place athird layer on top, and there are noholes left.”

OUR PANEL OFEXPERTS

RogerThompsonAVG

Con MallonSYMANTEC

Simon GeachBITDEFENDER

David BennettWEBROOT

David EmmKASPERSKYLABS

Luis CorronsPANDALABS

ClausVillumsenBULLGUARD

[ ]PANDA 2011 CONSUMER RANGE

SRP: Antivirus Pro 2011 £40.99, Internet Security2011 £50.99, Global Protection 2011 £61.99Distributor: Blue Solutions, Micro-P, Northamber

They say: Protects your online world, providingmaximum protection with minimum impact, and 50per cent improved performance in Windows 7compared to previous Panda versions

Features: Virtual keyboard, safe browser, homenetwork manager, remote PC access, file encryption, fileshredding, anti-malware, firewall and anti-phishing filter

““The best products inthe future will be based

around layered defencesinvolving web scanning,behaviour blocking, and

traditional signaturescanning. If you adopt

this approach, each layeronly has to be 80 per

cent effective.”Roger Thompson, AVG

David HarleyESET

[ ]ESET SMART SECURITY

SRP: £39.95Distributor: Westcoast

They say: Combines an advanced managementconsole and award-winning ThreatSense enginewith a firewall and antispam.

Features: Light footprint, advanced archivescanning, encrypted communication protocols,enhanced mobile PC support, email clientsupport, media access control, improved cleaning

*ABC-certified distribution 102,010 Jan-Dec 05

TITLE GENRE PUBLISHER TELEPHONE DISTRIBUTOR DATE

PCR looks at the best-selling PC games and those due for release over the coming months...

Game On

� Publisher: 2K Games� Distributor: Gem� Released: Out Now

There are few games with as wide ascope as the Civilization franchise –offering the gamers the entire breadthof human history to play with. Theseries has has grown in popularity sincethe first release in 1991, while remaininga critical success.

Players start out controlling a singlesettler unit which can found a city, and

are then tasked with building on that tocreate a long standing empire thatdominates the world. In order to dothis, players steer their nation throughthe ages, creating new military units andbuildings in order to further the cause.

This edition has a number of tweaksdesigned to simplify gameplay, thoughit remains one of the most complexgames available.

For strategy fans, Civilization V is theHoly Grail, and is sure to be one of theformat's biggest titles this year.

GAME OF THE MONTHSID MEIER'S CIVILIZATION V

1 STARCRAFT II: WINGS OF LIBERTY

2 THE SIMS 3

3 THE SIMS 3: AMBITIONS

4 BATTLEFIELD: BAD COMPANY 2

5 MAFIA II

FULL PRICE TOP 5

1 FOOTBALL MANAGER 2010

2 WORLD OF WARCRAFT: BATTLE CHEST

3 THE SIMS 3: DESIGN & HIGH-TECH

4 FALLOUT 3: GAME OF THE YEAR

5 ROLLERCOASTER TYCOON 3: DELUXE

BUDGET TOP 5

Fallout: New VegasPublisher: BethesdaDistributor: Bethesda

PES 2011Publisher: Konami Distributor: Open

ON THE RADAR

Sid Meier's Civilization V Strategy 2K Games 01279 822800 Gem September 24th

Digger 2011 Simulation Excalibur Publishing 01869 338833 Open October 1

Hawx 2 Simulation Ubisoft 01279 822800 Gem October 1

History Great Battles: Medieval Strategy pQube 0121 625 3388 Centresoft October 1

Police Simulator Simulation Excalibur Publishing 01869 338833 Open October 1

Tanker Truck Simulator Simulation Excalibur Publishing 01869 338833 Open October 1

Challenge Me: Brain Puzzles 2 Puzzle O-Games 01933 442660 OG International October 8

Challenge Me: Word Puzzles Puzzle O-Games 01933 442660 OG International October 8

Front Mission Evolved Action Square Enix 020 8987 5706 Open October 8

James Pond: Codename Robocod Platformer System 3 0121 625 3388 Centresoft October 8

John Daly's ProStroke Golf Sports O-Games 01933 442660 OG International October 8

PES 2011 Sports Konami 0208 987 5706 Open October 8

World Rally Championship Racing Tradewest 0121 506 9585 Advantage October 8

Flight Deck 6 Simulation First Class Simulations 01869 338833 Open October 15

Medal Of Honor Shooter EA 0121 625 3388 Centresoft October 15

Darkness Within: 1+2 Action Iceberg Interactive 0121 506 9585 Advantage/PDQ October 22

DC-3 - Legends of Flight Simulation Just Flight 0845 234 4242 Mastertronic October 22

The top five charts are based on monthly sales figures supplied by Chart Track, charts are for August 2010

NEW RELEASES

GAMES � NEW RELEASES

Every click matters. Viruses, cybercriminals and other online threats can make the Internet a

dangerous place. Protect yourself with Norton™ Internet Security 2011. Fast and light, Norton

Internet Security protects PCs without slowing them down. It helps prevent cybercriminals from

stealing your identity and your hard-earned money, so you can surf, shop and bank online safely. And

it detects and eliminates online threats, letting you email, chat and download files without worry.

For more information, visit www.nortonportal.com

Protect yourself and get in touch with your distributor to order now!

Help a cybercriminal reach his monthly

sales quota?

Cop

yrig

ht ©

201

0 Sy

man

tec

Cor

pora

tion

. All

righ

ts r

eser

ved.

Sym

ante

c, t

he S

yman

tec

Logo

, Nor

ton

and

the

Nor

ton

Logo

are

tra

dem

arks

or

regi

ster

ed t

rade

mar

ks o

f Sym

ante

c C

orpo

rati

on o

r it

s af

filia

tes

in t

he U

.S. a

nd o

ther

cou

ntri

es. O

ther

nam

es m

ay b

e tr

adem

arks

of t

heir

res

pect

ive

owne

rs.

Allow Deny

PROTECTION AGAINST IDENTITY

THEFT AND CYBERCRIMINALS.

Every click matters. Stay a step ahead of threats to your PC with fast protection. Norton™

AntiVirus 2011 detects and eliminates viruses, spyware and other threats lying in wait to infect

your PC, so you can chat, email and share files safely. It provides rock-solid protection without

slowing down your PC’s performance.

For more information, visit www.nortonportal.com

Protect yourself and get in touch with your distributor to order now!

Sell lower-rated security software.

And while you’re at it, stock up on floppy discs.

Cop

yrig

ht ©

201

0 Sy

man

tec

Cor

pora

tion

. All

righ

ts r

eser

ved.

Sym

ante

c, t

he S

yman

tec

Logo

, Nor

ton

and

the

Nor

ton

Logo

are

tra

dem

arks

or

regi

ster

ed t

rade

mar

ks o

f Sym

ante

c C

orpo

rati

on o

r it

s af

filia

tes

in t

he U

.S. a

nd o

ther

cou

ntri

es. O

ther

nam

es m

ay b

e tr

adem

arks

of t

heir

res

pect

ive

owne

rs.

Allow Deny

FAST, POWERFUL

PROTECTION AGAINST VIRUSES

AND SPYWARE.

PCR’s monthly look at recent developments in the consumer electronic market

ConsumerElectronics

APPLE’S NEW IPODSWe provide the highlights fromApple’s latest product launch,including details of the new iPodTouch, Nano and Shuffle

P 90

E-READERSWith a slew of newdevices ready to hit themarket later this year, wetake a look at thisincreasingly strongmarket and talk to someof its key players

p 85


For a full list of publishers and manufacturers that Interactive Ideas represent, visit

Gamingideas for…

Whether it’s something fun for

the whole family to enjoy, or

hardcore gaming action you’re

after, Interactive Ideas are sure to offer

the right games and peripherals for you.

We have keyboards and super-

responsive joypads that will put you

in control of even the most ferocious

battle, gaming wheels that will always

leave you crossing the finishing line

in poll position and a huge range of

programmable gaming mice and state-

of-the-art headsets for total game

immersion. For PC gamers, the best

ideas are interactive…

0208 805 1000 www.interactiveideas.com

Gaming Wheels

GreatGames

KeyboardsJoypads

Headsets

Gaming Mice

To order online and learn more about our award-winning range of software and peripherals for retail visit our website…

www.interactiveideas.com/order

DESPITE fears of a threat from thetablet PC category, the e-reader marketseems to be well establishing itself.With several major vendors puttingtheir weight behind their respectivedevices, supported by a drive towardscontent creation, the sector isincreasingly looking like a strongstand-alone segment.

A recent survey conducted byOneNewsPage found that 64 per centof respondents preferred reading e-books on Amazon’s Kindle over theApple iPad, showing that users areincreasingly aware of the benefits ofthe screen and battery life that adedicated device can offer.

In addition to this, the marketanalysis firm In-Stat predicted thatsales of e-readers would triple by 2014,with around 12 million devices to besold this year.

The key to the sales growth of the e-reader segment is the Christmasseason. With relatively low pricepoints – which are predicted to dropbelow the $100 mark for a wide range

of devices – e-readers provideparticularly good gift sales during thefestive period.

“In the United States, we’ve seenover 100 per cent sales growth everyyear since 2007,” says Sony’s categorymarketing manager Omar Gurnah. “Ithas been the same in the UK since2008. This year we are expecting to see200 per cent growth. The Christmasperiod is always the time when thiscategory sees its biggest sales spike.”

The importance of the Christmasmarket is highlighted by Acer’sdecision to launch its new LumiReaddevice during this period.

“Earlier this year we entered the e-reader market with LumiRead,” saidan Acer spokesman. “The first launchof the new version will be between thelast quarter of 2010 and the first of2011. The goal is ambitious in terms ofsales, we expect to sell between tenand 15 million units.”

Acer’s high sales targets reflect agrowing certainty that the e-readercategory can cut it as a standalone

market, something that is reflected bythe clearly defined Christmas salesboost.

The entry of Acer into this market,coupled with Amazon and Sony’sstrong progress, indicates that thesevendors are committed to the sector,and it’s no stretch to suggest thatcompanies have the marketing clout topush these devices further into theminds of consumers.

Amazon’s recent Kindle advertisingcampaign highlighted the benefits ofdedicated e-readers compared to tabletPCs, specifically citing the e-inkscreen’s capabilities in direct sunlight.

The technology behind the screenhas been one of the driving forces inthe success of the e-reader as astandalone category. The high-contrast,non-reflective panel has been developedto mimic the appearance of paper andink as closely as possible, and hashelped its developer, E Ink Holdings, topost ever-increasing profit growth.

The benefits of thescreen, coupled with the

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS � E-READERS


>>>

"When you build ageneral purpose deviceit’s not going to be as

good for readingbecause you makesacrifices in order to allow for the

multiple functions.”Laura Bonney, Amazon

E-readers are enjoying a real boom at the moment, with major names such as Amazon, Sony and Acer allentering the fray. So what makes these devices so attractive to consumers? Matt Grainger investigates...

A brand new chapter

CONTACTS

Amazon:www.amazon.co.uk

Bluepoint:0844 571 8001

CCI Distribution:01423 704700

Northamber:020 8296 7066

Realtime Distribution:01480 435881

Spire Technology:01202 828444

Sony:0845 600 0124

Westcoast:0118 912 6000

enviable battery life andlow price point makes for

an extremely well-rounded productwith a range of unique selling points.

“E-readers like the Kindle offer anuncompromised reading experience,”comments Amazon press officer LauraBonney. “Readers love Kindle’s highlyreadable electronic paper display, thelong battery life, the light weight, free3G wireless, global wireless coverage,no wireless bills or annual contracts,and our great £149 price.

“Kindle is purpose-built for reading,tablet computers aren’t. There aresome limitations when you build ageneral purpose device and it’s notgoing to be as good for readingbecause you make sacrifices in order toallow for the multiple functions suchas watching video.”

Another key factor in the success ofthe e-reader category has been thedrive to create content, without whichthe devices would be little more thanan expensive notepad.

“Content is essential,” states Acer’sspokesman. “The availability of aninnovative and revolutionary productdoesn’t guarantee its success. It is onlywhen the availability of an innovativeproduct is accompanied by the actualability to use it that users understandthe real added value.

“The e-reader’s technologicalinnovation has led to a transformationof the publishing industry. Worldwidepublishers are taking steps to make theirproducts available in e-book form. In



“The availability of aninnovative and

revolutionary productdoesn’t guarantee its

success. It is only whenit is accompanied by the

ability to use it thatpeople understand the

real value."Acer Spokesman

>>>

[ ]ACER LUMIREADSRP: TBCDistributor: TBC

They say: Recently showcased at IFA, Acer hashigh hopes for this device, which represents itsfirst foray in to the e-reader market

Specs: Six-inch e-ink display, qwerty keyboard,3G connectivity, 2GB of flash memory, MicroSDcard slot, ISBN scanner, will ship in late 2010

[ ]SONY READER TOUCHEDITIONSRP: £200Distributor: Direct

They say: The new Reader TouchEdition PRS-650 features a fulltouch screen for fast and intuitivenavigation of books

Specs: Six-inch full touch display,expansion slots for up to 32GB ofmemory, optical touch screen can be operated by finger orstylus, reduced glare, USB input,three weeks of use betweencharges, simple interface,integrated dictionaries

[ ]AMAZON KINDLESRP: £149Distributor: Direct

They say: Amazon’s number onebestselling item for two yearsrunning. It’s the most-wished-for,most-gifted, and has the mostfive-star reviews of any producton Amazon.com

Specs: High contrast e-ink screen,no glare, six-inch display, batterylife of a month, storage for up to3,500 books, fast downloads, PDF reader, integrated dictionary,web browser

the first half of 2010, salesof electronic books have

increased by about 180 per cent.”As part of a drive to create content,

Sony has negotiated a deal with publiclibraries in the United States and herein the UK, which will see e-booksloaned out for a limited period for freein the same way as traditional textbooks.

“This is a deal that we have pushedto bring over from the States and asfar as I know Sony is the onlycompany to include the necessary

software in its devices,” revealsGurnah. “You have to have the booksto ensure the success of a device. Youcan’t do it without content. We’vebeen working with publishers to getmore books available in digital format.We’ve got around 600,000 titles nowavailable for the Sony Reader.”

Amazon, on the other hand, has setits sights even higher: “Our vision forKindle is to offer every book everwritten, in any language, in print orout of print, all available in less than

60 seconds,” comments Bonney. “Weare laser-focused on this vision. Westarted with 200,000 books and lessthan ten months later we offer over400,000. That includes tens ofthousands of books you can only findin the Kindle Store.”

With an appealing price point andclear USPs driving sales, the marketingmuscle of several vendors improvingpublic awareness, and a real drive tocreate content, the future of the e-readermarket looks very bright indeed.



“You have to have thebooks to ensure the

success of a device. Youcan’t do it without

content. We’ve beenworking with

publishers to get morebooks available in

digital format.”Omar Gurnah, Sony

>>>

[ ]SONY READER POCKETEDITIONSRP: £160Distributor: Direct

They say: The new ReaderPocket Edition PRS-350 easily slipsinto a handbag or jacket pocketfor convenient on-the-go reading

Specs: Five-inch e-ink display,2GB of memory, optical touchscreen can be operated by fingeror stylus, reduced glare, SD cardslot, USB slot, three weeks of usebetween charges, simpleinterface, integrated dictionaries

[ ]BEBOOK NEOSRP: £183.90Distributor: Widget

They say: A new readingrevolution with a great sense ofusability, the BeBook Neo has anintegrated Wacom touchpaneland wi-fi connectivity

Specs: Wi-fi connectivity, batterycharge for 7,000 page turns,512MB flash memory, 3.5mmaudio jack, USB 2.0, SD card slot,ability to add annotations

[ ]SWEEX EBOOK READERSRP: Distributor: CCI Distribution,Realtime Distribution, Bluepoint,Northamber, Spire Technology

They say: The Sweex EbookReader comprises all the benefitsof print, yet offers a simplesolution for the possibledisadvantages. From now on,bulging bookcases and stacks ofmagazines are things of the past

Specs: Six-inch e-ink display,battery charge for 8,000 pageturns, 2GB SD card slot, availablein black or white

WHILE APPLE would happily set upinternational video links and invite theworld’s press to watch CEO Steve Jobsannounce the firm’s updated canteenmenu, the refresh of its key iPod lineslast month provides some impressivenew features across the Shuffle, Nano,and Touch ranges.

SHUFFLE

The updated iPod Shuffle now hasclickable ‘ring’ buttons and Apple’sVoiceOver technology, both of whichare designed to let users to navigatemusic and playlists without actuallylooking at the screen. The other majorupdate is 50 per cent more battery life,providing 15 hours of music playbackon a single battery charge, and still with2GB of storage.

NANO

The iPod Nano has had a somewhatmore significant overhaul, nowfeaturing a multi-touch interface thatlets users navigate their music collectionby tapping or swiping a finger on thedisplay, much like the iPod Touch. Ithas also lost a lot of weight – the newversion is nearly half the size and weightof the previous generation.

The home screen can be customisedby arranging icons for particular albumsor features, and has a built in FM radiowith live pause, a pedometer, andsupports Nike + iPod.

“This is the biggest reinvention ofthe iPod Nano since its debut in 2005,and we think users are going to love it,”Jobs said at the launch. “Replacing theclick wheel with our multi-touchinterface has enabled us to shrink theiPod Nano into an amazingly smalldesign that is instantly wearable with itsbuilt-in clip.”

TOUCH

Apple’s flagship MP3 player, the iPodTouch, has been upgraded with a

plethora of new features includingRetina display, FaceTime video calling,HD video recording, Apple’s A4 chip, 3-axis gyro, iOS 4.1 and Game Center.Like the Nano, it has been madethinner and lighter, with up to 40 hoursof music playback and seven hours ofvideo playback on a single charge.

“We’ve put our most advancedtechnology inside the new iPod touch,”said Jobs. “Whether you’re listening tomusic, playing games, making FaceTimevideo calls, browsing the web, capturingHD video or watching TV shows andmovies, the new iPod touch with itsRetina display, A4 chip and 3-axis gyrois more fun than ever.”

The Game Center is a particularlyimportant addition, as Apple attemptsto push the device as a leading mobilegaming gadget. The platform allowsgamers to challenge and play friends orbe matched automatically with newopponents, and it gives access to whatApple claims is the largest catalogueever, with over 250,000 apps, includingover 65,000 game and entertainmenttitles to choose from.

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS � IPODS


Fresh Apples“This is the biggest

reinvention of the iPodNano since its debut in

2005, and we thinkusers are going to love

it. The multi-touchinterface has

enabled us to shrink itinto an amazingly

small design.”Steve Jobs, Apple

VoiceOver technology and alonger battery life have beenadded to the new iPod Shuffle

Apple held a typically grand product launch last month, gathering journalists together around the world towatch the announcement via video link. Andrew Wooden looks at the latest line of iPods to see what’s new…

Where, when and by whom was PSAParts founded?PSA Parts was formed over 22 years agoby our chairman John McBrien. Thecompany was run from the front roomof his house in Wimbledon, andspecialised in the supply of memoryback up batteries to the computermaintenance industry in the UK. Hisson James joined soon after thecompany’s formation and he is still withPSA as the managing director.

Is the company very different now tohow it was then?Very! PSA now employs over 50 staff

and operates out of purpose-builtoffices and warehousing facilities basedclose to where the business originallystarted. We also have offices in France,China and Australia.

Our product range has expanded andevolved to over 12,000 product lines,which include batteries, adaptors andchargers for all applications, with a bigfocus on mobile devices. We are nowstrategic partners with Procter andGamble on the Duracell brand,developing specialist product ranges andsupplying key specialist EU accounts.

PSA is also a fully authorised partsdistributor for HP and we sell a

complete range of spares for printers,desktops and notebooks, as well assupplying electronic componentsdirectly to manufacturers.

What would you say is the mostsuccessful area of your business?We have built up, in my opinion, anunrivalled position supplying all sizes ofcustomers from ‘one man bands’ tosome of the largest dealers and resellersin the country.

Many of our customers have dealtwith us for well over ten years and relyon our large stock holding, quickdeliveries and flexible credit facilities.

From the small operation run out of founder John McBrien’s front room, PSA parts has grown into amulti-national battery, adapter and charger specialist with offices in France, China and Australia, as wellas the UK. Andrew Wooden talks to sales manager Nick Walsh about the firm’s progress…

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS � PSA PARTS COMPANY PROFILE


Powering on

"Many of our customershave dealt with us for

well over ten years andrely on our large stock

holding, quick deliveries and flexible

credit facilities.”Nick Walsh, PSA Parts

What do you have to offer retailersover your competitors?PSA is the sole European licensee forDuracell’s digital camera and camcorderbattery packs and chargers. We have acomplete offering for retailers of anysize, and offer the range at a fraction ofthe price of the original manufacturer’sproduct. We are in a unique positionwith this range and this speaks volumesfor the quality of our products. In short,we are a one-stop shop for all yourmobile power needs.

What plans do you have for futureexpansion around the world?Our relationship with Duracell hasenabled us to quickly branch out intonew markets. We are currently in theprocess of opening our South Americanoffice and are also focusing heavily onthe Nordic regions and Portugal.

To help all areas of the business wewill be moving the headquarters to anew purpose-built unit that is overtwice the size of our current premises,allowing for continued expansion.

What are your plans for the UKspecifically?We are launching a new range ofuniversal power accessories under our2-Power range. The ten products willinclude universal 90W and 48Wadaptors for laptops and netbooks.They are supplied with voltage-sensitivetips as opposed to the manuallyadjusted adaptors, which can damagemachines. This particular product is amust for retailers as it answers 90 percent of their customers’ notebookadaptor demands with a safe, cost-effective product.

In addition to this we are going tocontinue with our successful expansionin sales of the Duracell digital cameraand camcorder batteries, we are alsodeveloping new exciting ranges ofDuracell-branded products.

Do you think the Christmas buyingperiod will be better for retail thanlast year?I hope for the retailers that there is animprovement on last year. With the likesof Best Buy in the mix this Christmas itwill be interesting to see how it performsand what impact it has on the otherlarge retailers. Hopefully, sales of ourDuracell digital camera batteries in theBest Buy stores will have an impact!

Where do you see the company infive years’ time?We have a five-year plan that is veryambitious, yet achievable. We arelooking at taking our success in the UK and replicating it across all theEuropean countries.

PSA Parts will also continue todevelop its relationship with Procterand Gamble on Duracell and further develop the 2-Power battery and adapter range in the retail andtrade market.

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS � PSA PARTS COMPANY PROFILE


COMPANY FACTS:

� Employs over 50 staff� Stocks over 12,000 product lines� Has offices in the UK, France,China and Australia� Holds exclusive lincence forDuracell digital camera batterypacks and chargers� Is launching ten new productsunder its 2-Power brand

Sales manager NickWalsh says PSA iscurrently focusing onPortugal and theNordic regions

"We have a five-yearplan that is veryambitious, yet

achievable. We arelooking at taking our

success in the UK and replicating it across Europe.

Nick Walsh, PSA Parts

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////


MARKETPLACETHE PLACE FOR BUSINESS>>>

To advertise on thesepages please call

Carly Bailey

ADVERTISER CONTACTS

01992 [email protected]

All4mats01484 659500 [email protected]

Bluepoint0870 121 8001 www.bluepoint.net

Brigantia01765 603 300 www.brigantia.com

Cartridge Expert01489 795 668 www.cartridgeexpert.co.uk

CD Writer0208 293 0777 www.cd-writer.com

Computer gear0121 503 0666 www.computergear.co.uk

Discovery Services01621 786860 www.buy-it-back.com

Expodata0870 077 0077 www.pctestpro.com

GEM01279 822 822 www.gem.co.uk

Ideal Software01767 689 720 www.idealsoftware.net

Interactive Ideas0208 805 1000 www.interactiveideas.com

Keyboard Co0845 205 5555 www.keyboardco.com

OP30843 289 1260 www.op3.co.uk

SDA0161 819 1515 www.sdatrading.com

SJ Software01282 865 500 www.sjsoftware.co.uk

Sweexwww.sweex.com

Synology01423 704700 www.ccidistribution.co.uk

TADL0845 370 8668 www.tadlassist.com

TP [email protected]

VIP0871 622 7500 www.vip-computers.com/uk

Meroncourt

FUJITSU SECURES ITS PCSFujitsu is now including Symantec’sNorton security software with all itsconsumer and business PCsworldwide. Full versions of InternetSecurity will be shipped on alldevices, except business machinesin Japan, which will feature NortonAntiVirus. Customers in EMEA andJapan will receive a 90-daysubscription, while those in Asia-Pacific and the Americas will have a60-day subscription.

MICRO-P EXPANDSPARTNERSHIP WITH LGMicro-P has boosted its homeentertainment line-up with theaddition of electronics maker LG.The deal follows Micro-P’s previoussuccess with the vendor’s businessproducts, including monitors, NASstorage and large format screens.Daryl Street, sales director LG HomeEntertainment Company said: “Weare delighted to announce theextension of our relationship withMicro-P, which now also includesdistribution of our broad range ofTV products. We’ve worked withMicro P, through our BusinessSolutions product group for sometime now and are confident thattogether we can continue to deliverfor retailers.”

LINUXIT NAMED BCS AWARDFINALISTLinuxIT has been named a finalist inthe BCS Project Excellence Awards2010. The Linux support servicefirm received the nomination in theCommunity Project of the Yearcategory for its internet anddesktop computing solution forNoPC, an educational charityworking in developing countries.“We approached the projectscoping, design and build in thesame way as we would whenimplementing and supportingmission critical systems forcustomers in the private and publicsectors,” LinuxIT CEO Peter Dawes-Huish said. “The build was assigned

a duration of four weeks and wasdelivered on time.”

KINGSTON CREATES NEW SALES TOOLKingston Digital Europe haslaunched a new value-added salestool for its channel partners. TheKingston SSDNow ROI Calculatorcan be downloaded, embeddedand customised on partnerwebsites, allowing them to show ITdecision makers the immediatereturn on investment SSDs candeliver to their client computingplatform. The toolkit also providespartners with marketing materials.More information can be found onthe Kingston Technology PartnerProgram website.

TDAZLAN SEEKS AVAYAPARTNERSTDAzlan, the enterprise division ofComputer 2000, is launching apartner recruitment initiative to sign up new dealers to the Avayachannel. TDAzlan’s Avaya teamleader Graham Bunting said: “Avaya is a clear leader in theunified communications sector, asdemonstrated by its leadershipposition in the recently publishedGartner Magic Quadrant. Itsleading IP telephony, contactcentre, and data solutions,bolstered by its recent acquisition of Nortel, presents the channel with a really great opportunity,which is further enhanced by thesignificant investments TDAzlan hasmade to support Avaya’s expansionin the UK.”

NewsBytes

New partnership will help Dutch firm expand presence in

MARKETPLACE � NEWS


MAYFLEX GETS TRAININGMayflex and GrandstreamNetworks are offering customersthe chance to becomeGrandstream Networks IP VideoSurveillance Certified via newtraining courses. The training isfree of charge, providedattendees bring one of therecommended Grandstreamcameras with them. The course isa complete overview of thebrand and attendees will learnhow to install the products, howto use GSurf software and alsohow to use Grandstream camerasand phones together, includinginformation on SIP/VoIP.

BLUEPOINT has added IPmanufacturer Yealink to its vendorportfolio, in a move the distie hopes willboost its presence in the VoIP sector.

“Bluepoint is very excited to haveYealink on board. The firm compares

well against more expensivecompetitors, with super-fast boot uptimes, easy config, and a very attractiveprice tag. This provides excellent marginopportunities for our resellers,"commented Asad Verona, productmanager at Bluepoint.

“We have a lot of experience in VoIP,and are Certified Asterisk Professionals.This is an opportunity to penetrate anIT market with a growing appetite forquality VoIP telephony at sensibleprices. Having tested these phones in-

house before introducing them to ourcustomers, it gives us confidence tosupport them very easily.”

Bluepoint has taken stock of anumber of Yealink products includingUSB phones, with further products dueto arrive soon.

“This is an opportunity to penetrate an IT marketwith a growing appetite for quality VoIP telephony

at sensible prices.”Asad Verona, Bluepoint

Bluepoint inksdeal with Yealink

MERONCOURT has signed anexclusive agreement with consumerelectronics maker Ricatech, which willsee the Hertfordshire-based distributorstocking a wide range of the firm’sproducts in perfect time for the festive season.

Netherlands-based Ricatech, whichwas founded five years ago, specialisesin portable multimedia devices such asmedia players, and believes the newalliance with Meroncourt will help itextend its reach across the UK.

“Ricatech is determined to increasenot only its product range but also itspan-European penetration. Ourmission is to be well known in themarket as a reliable partner andsupplier to both our customers andalso the end user,” said UK country

manager Claudia Stuivberg. “Ricatechand Meroncourt are now allied tobuild growth in what is an importantmarket for our planned expansion.”

Meroncourt sales director SteveWalsh added: “Meroncourt isdelighted to once again bring a newbrand into the UK, thereby allowingour customers access to products neverbefore available in this country.Ricatech has a great reputation builtup over the past five years in Hollandand we are certain it will not be longbefore the same is true for the UK.”

The distributor has now taken stockof a number of the Dutch vendor’slines, including MP3 and MP4 players,speakers and portable DVD players.

“We expect to increase the numberof lines available from Ricatech as theybecome available and in readiness forthe Christmas gift period,” Walsh said.

By Nicky Trup

Ricatech, which also manufactures anumber of PC peripherals andaccessories has created what it describesas a “user-friendly online environment”aimed at both the trade and end users,including a helpdesk in both Englishand Dutch.

signs Ricatechthe UK market, with MP3 players and PC peripherals

“Ricatech is determinedto increase not only itsproduct range but also

its pan-Europeanpenetration. Our

mission is to be wellknown in the market asa reliable partner andsupplier to both ourcustomers and also

the end user.”Claudia Stuivberg,

Ricatech

NEWS � MARKETPLACE


VIP COMPUTERS has secured theexclusive UK distribution rights to theKiller 2100, a gaming network cardfrom Bigfoot Networks, which thevendor claims is the fastest solution ofits kind for online PC gaming.

The Cheshire-based distributor willinitially stock the Killer 2100, followedby future Bigfoot products as theycome to market.

“The Killer 2100 fits our gaminghardware portfolio perfectly. Gaminghas become very focused on power andperformance, and not to forget, ongaming specific peripherals includingmice, keyboards, and headsets, butBigfoot has a different approach,” VIP

Computers’networkingproductmanager MarkLynch said. “TheKiller 2100 placesemphasis oncontrolling the flow ofnetwork traffic thatenters the PC and by-passing the CPU for allgaming data to delivernetwork speed increases andultimately gaming improvements,irrelevant of the users system specs,making it beneficial to all.”

Bigfoot Networks CEO Michael

Howseadded:“We arepleased

to be workingwith VIP Computers,and we believe theKiller 2100 gaming

network card is a perfectcomplement to their full line ofperformance-based PC upgrades.”As well as providing the maximum

possible speed for online gaming, theKiller 2100 offers a range of tools formonitoring and optimising networkperformance with at-a-glance graphical displays.

“The Killer 2100 fits ourgaming hardware

portfolio perfectly.”Mark Lynch,

VIP Computers

Distributor adds Bigfoot to its vendor portfolio,hopes to bring further products to market

VIP stocks up onKiller gaming card

Bigfoot claims itsnetworking card isthe fastest gamingproduct of its kind

AMDThe chipmaker’s senior channelmarketing specialist MIKAELZEITLIN has left the company aftersix years. He is to start a new role athardware vendor Western Digital aschannel marketing manager forbranded products in the UK andNordics.

MIDWICHDistributor Midwich has promotedROSS FLOYD to product manager.Previously he was businessdevelopment executive for NEC largeformat displays and projectors at thedistributor.

STARTECHStarTech.com has taken on SEANMCSWEENEY as UK countrymanager, DENNIS HUIZINGA asnational account manager, while ATIF

MALIK has been promoted to businessmanager. McSweeney previously workedat Trust International, while Huizingajoins from Ingram Micro.

TARGET COMPONENTSTarget has hired three new staff,expanding its warehouse, sales andmarketing departments. SCOTT

FRANKLING has joined as amarketing executive, after previouslyworking in High Street retail as a buyerfor HMV. DAVID SYKESjoins as a sales account manager,handling a portfolio of UK tradecustomers. Meanwhile, GARY SPURRis the latest addition to the company’swarehouse.

WESTCOAST/XMAKelido – the holding company ofWestcoast and XMA – has appointedBARON BRIAN MAWHINNEY aschairman. “Brian has been a long-standing personal friend and I amdelighted he has agreed to join ourboard of directors," said Westcoast CEOJOE HEMANI.

StarTech and Target make three hires each � Floyd joins Midwich � Baron Mawhinney named Westcoast chairman

DIARY DATES 2010

APPOINTMENTS

The UK’s channel calendar is full of important events. Here are someupcoming highlights of the year ahead…

If you would like to promote your event, please contact:[email protected]

This information is believed to be correct, but potential visitors should confirm details with showorganisers before making arrangements to attendTCA MEMBER CONFERENCE

MARKETPLACE � APPOINTMENTS/EVENTS


Zeitlin leaves AMD for new role at WD

OCTOBERINGRAM MICRO SHOWCASEOCTOBER 6TH

LONDON

The event will take place at various

tourist hotspots, including the

London Eye and London Film

Museum. The exhibition will be

followed by an invite-only dinner

and awards ceremony, presented

by Hugh Dennis.

TCA MEMBER CONFERENCEOCTOBER 20TH

RADISSON EDWARDIAN HOTEL,

HEATHROW

The conference allows the IT trade

to come together to listen, talk,

learn and network. Attendance is

free to TCA & CompTIA Members.

RETAIL IMAGING SHOWOCTOBER 22ND

MARRIOT HOTEL MAYFAIR,

LONDON

The sixth annual event for the

imaging, consumer electronics, IT

and convenience retailers. The show

presents the perfect opportunity to

meet key vendors face to face,

source products and network with

the entire industry.

PARALLELS EMEA PARTNERFORUM 2010OCTOBER 28TH

MARRIOTT HOTEL REGENTS

PARK, LONDON

Parallels is running its EMEA Partner

Forum, sponsored by Microsoft. The

event will teach attendees how to

leverage cloud computing and

software-as-a-service delivery models

to enhance their businesses.

NOVEMBERLONDON GAMES CONFERENCENOVEMBER 4TH

BAFTA, LONDON

With a theme of ‘Survival And Profit

In A Changing Industry’ LGC 2010

will focus on shifts in revenues,

platforms and distribution methods

for game content. Speakers include

Culture Minister Ed Vaizey and David

Reeves, COO of Capcom Europe.

Mikael Zeitlin Back row: Dennis Huizinga, Atif Malik and Sean McSweeneyRoss Floyd

INGRAM MICRO SHOWCASE

Where, when and by whom wereBluepoint founded? Bluepoint was founded in MiltonKeynes in August 1992 by ourmanaging director Safraz Manji. In2003 we moved to a Purpose built £1.5million headquarters and 30,000 square foot warehouse in the centralMilton Keynes.

Is the company very different now tohow it was then? Bluepoint initially started off importingand distributing monitors under the

name Bluepoint Monitor Corporation.After pioneering this industry for sixyears, the company diversified intodistributing laptops, systems, printersand computer peripherals.

Out of those categories, what wouldyou say is the most successful area ofyour business? We have a range of products thatcontribute successfully to the business –they include monitors, hard drives,laptops, memory and software. Keyservices that are adding value are the

bespoke ‘My E-shot’ and ‘My Tech Info’services, which allow our customers topersonalise our web content as their own.

What do you have to offer retailersover your competitors? We offer the widest availability ofproducts throughout UK distribution,dedicated account management,unmatched customer service andaggressive price matching.

In addition to this we offer dailycustomised e-shots with our customers’logo and colours, and allow them to

Broad line distributor Bluepoint has some major plans for expanding its UK operation, as well as pushingfurther into Europe and Africa. Andrew Wooden sits down with operations manager Rizwan Datoo...

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS � BLUEPOINT COMPANY PROFILE


Straight to the point"We offer the widest

availability of productsthroughout UK

distribution, dedicatedaccount management,unmatched customerservice and aggressive

price matching."Rizwan Datoo, Bluepoint

display sections of our website withintheir own.

What plans do you have for futureexpansion around the world? We have offices in the UK and in theMiddle East. We are currently workingon plans to expand further intoEurope and Africa.

And what are your plans for the UKspecifically? Sharper prices, better service, andfocused support to our customer base.We listen to our customers, and wecan see they are having a hard time –so our job is to get them the best pricefirst time, with a hassle-free andsmooth operation, so that they canspend their time looking after andservicing their own customers.

We already have a section called ‘MyBranding Solution Live’ on the websitefor our resellers to take advantage ofour professionally-designed e-shots.Our resellers simply need to log in, settheir price, enter the email addressesand shoot.

On the basis of the popularity of‘My Branding’, we are in the process oflaunching ‘My Site’, which will allowresellers to create their ownprofessional website in minutes withtheir own personal settings. This willgive them access to the tens ofthousands of products that Bluepoint distributes.

Do you think the Christmas buyingperiod will be better for retail thanlast year? We are expecting this year to be abetter year than last year. We have seenan increase in demand and interest.People are now getting accustomed tothe times, and are able to spendsensibly while balancing their books.

With prices at an all time low andVAT set to increase in the new year, wethink there will be a push to spendand refresh over this coming quarter.

Where do you see the company infive years’ time? A week is a long time in IT, let alonefive years! However, since you’ve askedthe question, I think in five years themarket will be a totally different field,with converging technology andbusiness models changing beyondrecognition. We will be focusing ondeveloping and enhancing our existingpartnerships with our key vendors, andat the same time building loyaltyamong our resellers. Our productrange will continue to diversify andexpand rapidly, and the focus will beto add even further value.

“We listen to our customers, and we can see theyare having a hard time – so our job is to get them

the best price first time, in a hassle free andsmooth operation, so that they can spend their

time looking after their own customers.” Rizwan Datoo, Bluepoint

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS � BLUEPOINT COMPANY PROFILE


Rizwan Datoo says heexpects this Christmasperiod to be better forretail than last year

LAST MONTH I wrote about thepower of leasing and how this could beput to good use by indies during thesetough economic times. My email inboxhas had some interestingcorrespondence in it. What seemed tobe a recurring theme was that gettingcustomers accepted by lease funderswas proving very difficult withoutpersonal guarantees from businessowners – and in some cases even fromshareholders who were not directors.

Upon further investigation Idiscovered that many of the cases weretraditionally very low credit risks, suchas professionals and local businesseswith long trading histories and strongbalance sheets. It also appeared thatthese were businesses that in the pastwould not have been interested inleasing through anyone other thantheir own High Street banks.

Well, it seems that those traditionalsources of funding have dried up andthese types of business are having to turnto outside sources of finance, which atthe end of the day are only asking forsimilar security to that already demandedby the businesses’ bankers.

The long and short of it is that there is actually a massive opportunity here for indies as they can provide not onlythe ICT solution that local businesses are looking for but also help them findthe funding being withheld by their own bankers.

If a business is in good enough healthto take on a monthly lease rentalcommitment over three years then theowners and directors should not be tooconcerned about offering their personal guarantee.

I had an interesting report back thisweek from Allied WestminsterInsurance Services, which providesinsurance-related products and services.It seems that the firm is increasinglybeing asked by Brigantia members tolook at their business insurance as theytry to keep costs down.

What is alarming is the number ofbusinesses that believed they hadsufficient cover which in fact don’t.This is an extremely worrying matterand I would urge all independentretailers to look closely at theirinsurance policy documents, as whenthings are tight a failed insurance claimcould make the difference betweenbusiness survival or failure.

My advice is double check that youare covered for building and repairingon your premises if you have a typicalbank-provided shop policy, and alsomake sure all those connected with thebusiness are covered when workingaway from the shop, unit or office.

The headline premium should notbe the driving factor with an insurancepolicy – it should be the actual cover.You may find you can keep the

premium down by removing things youdon’t need while making sure everythingthat you do need is included. Let meknow what you find and I will lookfurther into insurance next month.

Iain Shaw discusses the advantages of helping local businesses find fundingfor ICT solutions, and advises indies to check their insurance policies...

CONTACT IAIN SHAW � [email protected]� 0871 703 4280� www.brigantia.com

Iain invites opinions fromPCR readers and willrespond though this column

Are you

covered? “What is alarming is

the number ofbusinesses that

believed they hadsufficient cover whichin fact don’t. I wouldurge all independent

retailers to look closelyat their insurance

policy documents.”

BRIGANTIA � OPINION


OPINION � TCA


FOLLOWING THE summer holidays,which provide temporary respite fromthe daily grind, the travel environment inthe UK has returned to normal: Trafficjams on the roads, overcrowding on thetrains and long waits in horribleconditions in our airports. And that’s ifthings are running well. Add in someindustrial action, bad weather, accidents,acts of God or terrorist scares and theconditions for national and internationaltravellers rapidly become unbearable.

Realistically, the country cannotafford to notably improve its transportinfrastructure any time soon, and evenif we were able to do so it would simplyencourage us to burn even more fossilfuels than we do already.

Laudably the Government is cuttingthe headcount in departments whereverpossible and reducing discretionarybudgets, and yes, by all means, let’s cutdown on waste and pursue tax-dodgersand benefit cheats. But those in powercould be doing a lot more, both withintheir own operations and by helpingUK businesses save money.

There is opportunity for theGovernment to lead by example, as wellas taking proactive measures toencourage businesses to adopt videoconferencing technology. VC no longerneeds to be expensive and complicated.Many individuals are quite happy toextend their one-to-one experience withSkype into their working environment.

The technology to enable highquality multi-user conferencing is nowavailable at a relatively low cost. It isentirely possible for a huge proportionof UK enterprises, large and small, tohold a significant proportion of theirmeetings without moving.

Using VC brings with it a number ofbenefits, including less time spenttravelling, lower travel costs, reducedemissions, and improvements to thenation’s health and road safety.

However, our research indicates thatthe commitment to and utilisation ofVC within Government is patchy to saythe least, and the Department forBusiness Innovation and Skills seemsto have little if any commitment tousing or promoting the technology.

The UK IT industry consists of tensof thousands of enterprises that wouldwelcome and support a cleargovernment lead in this matter, andthe Technology Channels Associationstands ready to help spread the word,once you give it, Mr Chancellor.

While we wait for the Governmentto promote the interests of the ITindustry generally, and independenttraders in particular, the TCA willcontinue to prepare for and promoteits Annual Conference, taking place onWednesday October 20th. With somegreat keynote speakers and exhibitors,the event is likely to surpass our lastone, which 90 per cent of delegatessaid was the best channel event theyhad ever attended.

Keith Warburton is the president of The Technology Channels Association.

[email protected]

Dear Mr OsborneKeith Warburton looks at what the Government can do to promote the interests of the UK’s IT industry,as well as improving the daily commute of businesspeople across the country...

PC

MAC

“There is opportunityfor the Government to

lead by example, as well as taking proactivemeasures to encourage

businesses to adoptvideo conferencingtechnology. VC no

longer needs to be expensive

and complicated.”

TCA � OPINION

I THOUGHT it was about time Ipresented one of my more controversialcommentaries. Lately, resellers havereminded me about one particularaspect of selling Macs that is nowcausing a noticeable problem.

For many years Apple dealers havehad to respond to the criticism thatMacs are too expensive. Countering thiscomment used to be easy when Applepriced their machines not too far abovethe level of the best-quality brandedPCs. All you had to do was show thedesign and demonstrate Mac OS X to

justify the difference in price. But allthat has changed.

I’ve got to admit that I now agreeApple computers have becomeexpensive – seriously expensive. A quick Google will confirm that I’mnot alone in this opinion.

For the past few months I’vereturned to computer sales basics. I’vebeen working part-time at my local PCWorld branch, assisting with their newApple store-in-store. And even thoughthe impressive, dedicated, Apple Store-themed area clearly shows Apple to bethe premier brand, it doesn’t take long to spot that even the cheapestwhite MacBook appears poor valueagainst a high-spec, feature-packed,equally well-built Sony F-Series at thesame price.

There are reasons for this; Appledoesn’t cut corners on componentor build quality (but then neitherdoes Sony), its designs are moreexpensive to build, and theattention to detail of the wholepackage is staggering. Butdon’t forget, Apple has said

many times that it would struggle tomeet the increased demand for itscomputers if its prices were lowered by10 to 15 per cent. But does this reallystack up?

Ignoring the iPad, there are presentlyvery good stocks of Apple computerinventory out there, and all the majorresellers have plenty of units. If you askthem, most will say they’ve watched aslowdown of Apple computer sales over the past four to six months. PCWorld certainly has large stocks of allbut the very latest machines throughoutthe company. I wish I knew someone inApple who could tell me how many oftheir machines are in stock for salethrough their retail stores.

Dealers can upsell on all the usualfeatures and benefits of a Mac, but formost buyers, the jump in price over anequivalent Windows PC begins to makeno sense, and with Windows 7 beingsuch a good operating system, it isincreasingly difficult to justify the hugedifference in price. But then, I did justtake delivery of a new Apple MacBook Pro.

www.pcr–online.biz October PCR 107

Robert Peckham discusses the cost of Macs, and asks whether demandreally would outstrip supply if the price was dropped...

“For many years allApple dealers had to do

was show the designand demonstrate Mac

OS X to justify thedifference in price. Butall that has changed.”

Robert Peckham is a director of The Technology Channels Association.

[email protected]

The TCA is the not–for–profit trade body with membershipmade up of businesses from all parts of the channel.

Visit www.tcauk.orgfor more information

MAC

Sorry Apple – you have becometoo expensive

To list your company here and online every week please

sourcebooTHE ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT AGEN

AGI MediaTel: 0207 602 9119www.agimedia.com

an.xTel: 0207 785 7156www.anxagency.com

Ark VFXTel: 0114 268 4999www.arkvfx.net

BastionTel: +44 (0)20 7421 7600www.bastion.co.uk

BH MediaTel: +44 (0)1462 456780www.bhpress.co.uk

Biff New MediaTel: 0203 178 3312www.biffnewmedia.com

Eye-D Creative Tel: +44 (0)20 7407 1440www.eye-dcreative.co.uk

FINKTel: 01480 302350www.finkcreative.com

FluidTel: +44 (0)121 212 0121www.fluidesign.co.uk

freeform.LondonTel: 020 7183 6664www.freeformlondon.co.uk

FrontroomTel: +44 (0)20 7729 3033www.frontroom.com

Game FrontierTel: 0870 420 2424www.gamefrontier.com

GFK Chart-TrackTel: +44 (0)20 8741 7585www.chart-track.com

Heaven MediaTel: +44 (0) 1480 420820www.heavenmedia.com

Indigo PearlTel: +44 (0)20 8964 4545www.indigopearl.com

Jelly MediaTel: 08707 506070www.jellymedia.com

KeefTel: +44 (0)20 3239 7563www.keefcreative.com

MaverickTel: +44 (0)20 7291 3450www.mavericklovesgames.com

Outsource MediaTel: +44 (0)207 713 9000www.omuk.com

Peppermint PTel: 0207 240 2645www.peppermintp.com

PMA Digital Tel: 020 7060 4500www.pmadigital.com

Premier PRTel: +44 (0)207 292 8330www.premierpr.com

Rainbow ProductionsTel: +44 (0)20 8254 5300www.rainbowproductions.co.uk

RealtimeUKTel: 01772 682363 www.realtimeuk.com

Side UKTel: +44 (0)20 7631 4800www.side.com

Studio CO2Tel: +44 (0)1483 414415 www.studioco2.com

The Audio GuysTel: +44 (0) 1788 565230www.theaudioguys.co.uk

Über Tel: 0114 278 7100www.uberagency.com

DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION

Arvato Games Task ForceTel: +49 (0)521 80 3074www.gamestaskforce.de

Direct 2 DriveTel: +44 (0)203 077 4000www.direct2drive.co.uk

GAMING ACCESSORIES

AntiGrav MediaTel: 01932 454929www.antigrav-media.co.uk

Hubb AccessoriesTel: 01642 204343www.hubbaccessories.com

I GlobeTel: 0203 0066760www.i-ga.co.uk

IGSTel: +845 600 1676www.igs-group.com

Logic 3Tel: 01923 471000www.logic3.com

Powerplay GlobalTel: 01706 242060www.powerplaygroup.co.uk

CREATIVE AND PROMOTIONAL SERVICES

contact [email protected] or 01992 535646

k2010CIES AND SERVICE COMPANIES

Realtime DistributionTel: 01480 435 881www.realtimeonline.co.uk

INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTION

Curveball LeisureTel: 01792 652521www.thegamecollection.net

Game Outlet EuropeTel: +46 54 854750www.gameoutlet.se

InComm EuropeTel: 01489 556700www.incomm-europe.com

NJOYit EntertainmentTel: +44 (0)1992 631700www.njoyitentertainment.com

TechlandTel: +48 71 354 46 10www.techland.pl/en

LEGAL SERVICES

Harbottle & LewisTel: +44 (0)20 7667 5000www.harbottle.com

Exobia Legal ServicesTel: +31(0)85 111 0099 www.exobialegal.com

LOCALISATION, QA AND TESTING

BabelTel: 01273 764 100www.babelmedia.com

Enzyme LabsTel: (+1) 450-995-2000www.enzyme.org

Global StepTel: +31 (0)20 312 0508www.globalstepgames.com

Key FactorTel: +49 (0) 6173 999 781www.keyfactor-entertainment.com

Orange StudioTel: +39 051 588 04 50www.orangestudio.it

PartnertransTel: +44 1273 229030www.partnertrans.com

Testronic LaboratoriesTel: +44 (0)1753 653722www.testroniclabs.com

Universally SpeakingTel: +44 1 480 210621www.usspeaking.com

MANUFACTURING SERVICES

OK MediaTel: +44 (0)20 7688 6789www.okmedia.com

Sony DADC AustriaTel: +43 (0)6246 880-0www.sonydadc.com

TechnicolorTel: 020 8987 7829www.technicolor.com

RECRUITMENT

Aardvark SwiftTel: 01709 876877www.aswift.com

AmiqusTel: 01925 252588www.amiqus.com

Avatar Games RecruitmentTel: +44 (0) 1942 527 966www.avatar-games.co.uk

Game OptionsTel: +44 (0)1382 731909www.gameops.co.uk

Specialmove Consultancy Tel: +44 (0) 141 530 4555www.specialmove.com

SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

CrytekTel: +49 (69) 219 77 66 0www.crytek.com

GameSpy TechnologyTel: 001-714-460-6732www.poweredbygamespy.com

xaitmentTel: +49 (0)6897 600 800www.xaitment.com

UK DISTRIBUTION AND LOGISTICS

EntaTechTel: 0333 101 1000www.entatech.com

GemTel: 01279 822822www.gem.co.uk

Hive EntertainmentTel: 01706 242070www.hive-entertainment.net

White Room Gameswww.whiteroomgames.com

MARKETPLACE


SAMSUNG has launched the GalaxyTab, the first product in its new tabletrange, which is due to hit UK shelveslater this year.

The device, which was unveiled atthis year’s IFA show in Berlin, features aseven-inch TFT LCD display, weighs380g and supports Adobe Flash.

The Galaxy Tab offers 3G, wi-fi andbluetooth connectivity for web browsing,e-reading and multimedia playback, aswell as email, voice and video calling,SMS, MMS and social networking.

The tablet is powered by aCortex A8 1.0GHzapplication processor, canplay HD video content andhas a front-facing camerafor 3G video calling, aswell as a rear-facingcamera for taking stillphotos and videos.

“Samsung recognisesthe tremendous growthpotential in this newly created marketand we believe that the Samsung GalaxyTab brings a unique and openproposition to market. There is a newand emerging consumer demand thatSamsung can satisfy, since mobile is inour DNA. This demand continues togrow and develop as users tap itslimitless potential,” said SimonStanford, head of mobile for SamsungUK and Ireland.

“TheSamsung GalaxyTab has been designed toenable consumers to maximisetheir online experience wherever thatmay be. The Samsung Galaxy Tab ispushing the market in new directionsand Samsung believes this is only thebeginning of its innovations, as pioneersin smart media devices.”

Unlike Apple’s device, the Galaxy Tab iscompatible with Adobe Flash

Samsung takes on iPad with new tablet

“The Galaxy Tab ispushing the market in

new directions and thisis only the beginning ofSamsung's innovations.”

Simon Stanford, Samsung

The Galaxy Tab can be usedfor web browsing and

e-reading, as well as voiceand video calling

NOKIA HAS used this year’sNokia World conference to unveilits new family of smartphonesrunning the Symbian mobileoperating system.

Three new models join thepreviously announced N8 in thevendor’s new line-up and are dueto ship by the end of the year.

The E7 caters to the businessmarket, with onboard MicrosoftExchange ActiveSync to deliverdirect real-time access to

corporate email inboxes and otherapplications. The four-inch touch-screendisplay features Nokia ClearBlacktechnology for improved outdoor visibilityand a full keyboard for editing documents.

The C7 is designed for socialnetworking. Users can get live updatesfrom sites including Facebook andTwitter, as well as keeping track of newemails directly on the homescreen. The

device sports a 3.5-inchAMOLED display and

a combination ofstainless steel

and glass.

Finally, theC6 has a 3.2-inch

touch-screen AMOLED

display and Nokia ClearBlack technology.Users can check email, access tracksthrough Ovi Music, and download appsand games from the Ovi Store.

All three new smartphones, alongwith the N8, are built on the newversion of Symbian, which offers avariety of features such as multiplehomescreens, visual multitasking andgesture-based interactions.

Niklas Savander, Nokia’s executivevice president of markets, said: “Ournew family of smartphones introducedtoday feature the all-new Symbian OS,rewritten to be faster, easier to use, moreefficient and more developer friendly.”


MARKETPLACE

All three touch-screen devices operate on the latest version of the mobile giant’s operating system

Nokia unveils new Symbian smartphones

Three new models jointhe previously

announced N8 in thevendor’s line-up, due to

ship by year-end.

MARKETPLACE




ARM YOURSELF WITH A QUALIFYING NVIDIA GEFORCE® GRAPHICS CARD!

CALL YOUR ACCOUNT MANAGER TODAY FOR FULL DETAILS

For a limited time only, buy any qualifying NVIDIA® GeForce® graphics card and get a key code for a free trial of StarCraft II: Wings of Liberty, good for 7 hours

Terms and conditions apply. Go to www.GeForce.com/TryStarCraft2

SDA Trading (UK) Ltd, 18 Moulton Street, Manchester, M8 8FQTel: (+44) 0161 819 1515 Fax: (+44) 0870 236 0247

www.sdatrading.com [email protected]

Best in PC CablingYour One Stop Shopfor all your Needs!

OPENING TIMESMonday - Friday : 9:30am - 6:30pm

Saturday: CLOSED Sunday: 9:30am - 3:30pm

MAIL ORDER SERVICE AVAILABLE

PC CablesUSB CablesFirewire CablesPrinter LeadsScart CablesTelephoneAccessoriesModem CablesIDE CablesUTP Patch CablesCrossover CablesMicrophonesHeadsetsMouse MatsUSB to Serial

USB to PS/2USB to ParallelUSB to Game PortUSB InfraredAdaptorUSB Card ReadersUSB to EthernetUSB to SwitchBoxesPCI CardsPCMCIA CardsKVM SwitchBoxesPrintersScanners

CD/DVDMediaFloppy DisksStorage CasesCD Re-WritersDVD Re-WritersDuplicator BoxesCompatible InkMatt/Photo PaperCD/DVD LabelsMouse/KeyboardSpeakersWebcams& Much More!


MARKETPLACE

PERIPHERALS specialist Roccat haslaunched its latest gaming mouse, theKone+, an upgrade to its awardwinning Kone device.

The Kone+ is available now fromMeroncourt, and features a 6000dpilaser sensor, a 10.5 megapixelresolution and 1000Hz polling rate,offering speeds of up to 200ips(5.08m/s) without lag.

An integrated threat display controlunit allows the sensor to adjust to suitthe mousepad, improving tracking. Andwith 576kB of onboard memory, up tofive profiles can be stored on the mouse.

According to Roccat, improvementshave also been made to the device’sexterior. The button above the mouse

wheel has been made larger andthere is an additional toggleswitch below the wheel. An‘EasyShift’ button allowsthe user to assign secondfunctions to each of theten programmablebuttons and the mousewheel – allowing gamers toaccess up to 22 functions.

The Kone+ can light upin four simultaneouscolours, whichcan alternateor rotate. Fourweights let usersadjust the weight to make the mouse up to 20g heavier.

Roccat updates gamingmouse line-up

"Improvements have beenmade to the mouse’s

exterior; the button abovethe mouse wheel has beenmade larger and there is an

additional toggle switch."

Kone+ lets the user access up to 22 different functions

Sage Courses from £ Tel No: 01282 866 300 Web: www.SJstartup.co.uk

The Place to Start Learning Sage

Official Sage Training Courses at trade prices.

Sage Workbooks, Self Study or Full Tutorial

leading to the Sage Certificate of Competence.

Sage Training for the Trade.

Introducing SJ Sage 50 On-Line.

MARKETPLACE


SONY HAS UNVEILED two newproducts this month – an Apple-compatible speaker dock and a new Blu-ray disc writer.

The RDP-X50iP is the latest additionto the vendor’s range of speaker docks forthe current generation of iPods and theiPhone 3GS. Similar in appearance to theprevious RDP-XF100iP and RDP-X80iPmodels, the RDP-X50iP contains a digitalamplifier and long-stroke driver units.

According to Sony, the long-strokespeakers, plus a super-long duct andtwin reflex ports give the RDP-X50iP arich and powerful bass sound. Digitalsignal processing enhances mid-rangeand high frequency tones.

The dock can charge the iPod oriPhone while simultaneously playingmusic, while the omni-directional infrared remote gives full menu control ofmusic functions.

Elsewhere, the vendor has launched anew external Blu-ray disc writer, underits Sony Optiarc Europe subsidiary.

The BDX-S500U writes to Blu-raydisc at 6x speed, plays Blu-ray movies,

DVDs and CDs, and can store up to50GB of high definition video or dataThe device also supports 3D playback,and has a slim, lightweight design.

According to Sony, the device isdesigned to replace the DVD player in

consumers’ home cinema systems, andPC users can also use it to back updocuments and media files.

The burner ships with CyberLink’sMedia Suite 8, which includes a varietyof programs such as PowerDVD,PowerDirector and PowerProducer, whichcan be used for authoring, editing, datawriting and back up.

Sony launches new home media duo

"The Blu-ray disc writeris designed to replace

the DVD player inconsumers’ home

cinema systems, and PCusers can also use it to

back up documents andmedia files."

Speaker dock comes with an infrared remote, while Blu-ray writer ships with CyberLink software


MARKETPLACE

To advertise onthese pagesplease call

Carly Bailey01992 [email protected]

MARKETPLACE


PARALLELS has released the latestversion of its bestselling software forsimultaneously running Windows and Macapplications on a Mac computer.

Parallels Desktop 6, available now fromComputers Unlimited, offers over 80new and enhanced features.

According to the vendor, the newsoftware achieved top results in productbenchmark testing, with 3D graphicsrunning nearly 40 per cent better thanbefore and Windows boot time 41 percent faster than before. Desktop 6 alsoboosts speeds for working with files on USB drives, networks and in shared folders.

Parallels has also unveiled Desktop 6Switch to Mac Edition, which on top ofthe new software includes additionalfeatures designed to make the movefrom PC to Mac smart and simple.

The Switch to Mac Edition provides acomplete set of switching tools and

includes a high-speed USB data transfercable. All the users programs, files,settings and browser favourites andbookmarks can automatically be moved to the Mac. User tutorials arealso available.

“Parallels has established itself as thenumber one choice for Mac users who

want to run Windows applications sideby side with their Mac experience. CUis delighted to be offering this fantasticnew version to the Apple channel,” saidMatt Balcombe, product manager atComputers Unlimited.

New software offers the best of both worldsParallels’ Mac package lets users run applications for different operating systems at the same time

“Parallels has established itself as thenumber one choice for Mac users who

want to run Windows applications side byside with their Mac experience.”Matt Balcombe, Computers Unlimited

CHERRY HAS LAUNCHED its newInfinity multimedia keyboard, part ofthe vendor’s latest range of PCperipherals.

The corded keyboard has an ultra-flatdesign and, according to Cherry,combines aesthetics with ergonomicfeatures, while remaining robust.

The compact device offers full-size keysin standard layout, a numeric keypad anda cursor block. “In operation, its soft,whisper-quiet keystroke action makes forextended fatigue-free use, even in themost demanding of work environments,”the vendor claims.

The Infinity features 11programmable hotkeys for easy access tothe internet, e-mail, and music or videoclips. Cherry’s Keym@n software canalso be downloaded for additionalprogramming functionality.

The Infinity keyboard is plug and playon Windows machines, comes with afive-year warranty and is available in

either piano black or stainless steel withblack keys.

The new keyboard is one of a numberof new products from Cherry, which lastmonth told us it is looking to bolster itspresence in the UK market. “We have agreat range of products, but not enoughconsumers know about them,” generalmanager Michael Groom said.

Programmable buttons give users quick access to the internet, email music and videos

Cherry reveals Infinity keyboard


MARKETPLACE

“Soft keystroke action makes forextended fatigue-free use, even in the

most demanding of work environments”Cherry

Special software can bedownloaded from the

vendor’s website for extrahotkey programming

MARKETPLACE


ROXIO has released Creator 2011, adigital media suite which allows users to capture, edit and share 3D photosand videos.

The software can convert 2D photosand videos into 3D, supporting a range offormats including those used in 3Dtheatrical film releases. “We believestrongly that 3D will not only changeforever how we experience Hollywoodmovies, but also reshape and redefine howwe capture and enjoy our personal digitalmedia,” said Matt DiMaria, executive vicepresident and general manager of Roxio.

Consumers can import contentdirectly from 3D cameras and createpersonalised productions complete withtransitions, titles, effects and asoundtrack, which can be viewed on thePC or a 3D-enabled HDTV.

Roxio has also collaborated withleading tech firms such as ATI, Nvidia,

and RealD to ensure Creator 2011 isfully compatible with the latest 3D-enabled devices and technologies.

The new software contains a range offeatures and tools to speed up andsimplify video, photo, DVD and Blu-rayprojects. Easy to use functions have been

included for stabilising shaky homemovies and rotating video clips betweenportrait and landscape.

Creator 2011 also provides newoptions for sharing media with a new‘upload to Facebook’ feature.

New software includes simple tools for stabilising shakyhome movies and rotating video clips

Roxio releases 3D creative package

SWEEX has introduced a new full HDLED television with an in-built DVDplayer, available in two sizes.

The slimline device, which comes witha 22-inch or 24-inch screen, is aimed atconsumers and home office workers. Itfeatures a 1920 x 1080 resolution and anintegrated digital TV receiver.

The TV, which has a 5ms responsetime, is 4.5 cm deep, with a slim bezeland black high-gloss finish.

According to Sweex, the LEDtechnology means the television uses upto 30 per cent less power than equivalentLCD TVs.

Connection options include VGA,scart and HDMI, as well as a USB inputfor connecting external hard drives orportable devices such as cameras.

Both models are available now andare delivered as standard with a table stand, but are also suitable for wall mounting.

Vendor launches slimline devices for consumers and home office workers

Sweex boosts TV line-up

"3D will not only changeforever how we experienceHollywood movies, but also

redefine how we capture andenjoy personal digital media.”

Matt DiMaria, Roxio

“According to Sweex, theLED technology means thetelevision uses up to 30 percent less power thanequivalent LCD TVs.”

The TV ships with a table stand, butcan also be wall mounted

STRIKING A BALANCE betweenpower and portability is the toughestchallenge laptop manufacturers face,

and there’s always been a trade-off. Youwant a long battery life? You’d better beprepared for mediocre performanceand a reduced feature set. You want topperformance? Don’t even think aboutleaving your charger at home.

The 13.3-inch Samsung Q330 wantsto change all that, offering top speed,great battery life and portability in onereasonably priced package. It gets off toa flying start. A 2.26 GHz Intel Corei3-350M processor in tandem with3GB of 1,066MHz DDR3 RAM helpedthe Q330 to a stellar score of 1.36 inour real-world applicationsbenchmarks.

It manages to combine this speedyperformance with the sort of staminawe’d normally associate with

ultraportable laptops based on ultra-low voltage processors. In our light-usebattery benchmark, the Q330’s4,400mAh six--cell battery lasted five-hours 46 minutes on a single charge.

Aside from a series of minorgrumbles, and the noticeably budgetchassis, there’s very little the SamsungQ330 gets wrong. It offers bundles ofpower and solid stamina packed into asub-2kg frame with no major designissues. And the price is so reasonablewe had to look twice before we took iton board. For great-value portablecomputing power, there’s little thatcomes close.

SONY’S L SERIES has sat atop our A-list for several months, and for goodreason. But before you even considerits performance, its looks or itsfeatures, the most attractive aspect formany will be the sheer simplicity of itall: Plug in a power cable, press thepower button, and it’s ready to go.

Before you even get to the point ofplugging it in, though, you’re likely tofind yourself impressed by its sheerweight. At 12.5kg, the L Series feelsoutstandingly well built, and onceyou’ve recovered from all that heavylifting, it’s handsome good-looks willbe difficult to ignore. It isn’t anostentatious design, but thecombination of gloss black and silverlooks every-inch the classy, high-endall-in-one PC.

The keen sense of style is backed upwith some serious substance. TheVaio’s 24-inch touch screen display isone of the finest money can buy. ItsFull HD resolution stretches across thepanel, and while brightly lit rooms willwork havoc with the reflective finish,image quality is stunning. Colours popoff the screen with amazing clarity,and whether you’re surfing the web orwatching a Blu-ray movie, the Sony’svibrant, high-contrast images have tobe seen to be believed.

It isn’t perfect, and it’s definitelyvery, very expensive, but in many waysthe Vaio justifies its asking price.Given the quality of that display andthe generous specifications behind it,we’re inclined to recommend itdespite its higher noise levels.

[ ]URL: www.sony.co.ukSRP: £1,404

SONY VAIO L13 SAMSUNG Q330

“Colours pop off the screen with amazing clarity,and whether you’re surfing the web or watchinga Blu-ray movie, the Sony’s vibrant, high-contrast

images have to be seen to be believed.”


MARKETPLACE � RECOMMENDED

PCR RecommendedEach month, in association with PC Pro, we check out two of the hottest bits of tech the specialistpress are raving about. This month, we examine Sony’s all-in-one and Samsung’s efficient new laptop...

[ ]URL: www.samsung.co.ukSRP: £584

“The price is so reasonable we had to looktwice before we took it on board. For

great value portable computing power,there’s little that comes close.”

SanDisk has joined forces with theworld famous DJ Tiesto to help fansfilm his next music video byrecording gig footage on theirphones and uploading it to the web.

The memory vendor invited us down to Tiesto’s gig at The Scala inLondon, where there was a SanDisk-sponsored VIP area, and PCR’s CarlyBailey and Rosie McKeown got tomeet the man himself.

THIS MONTH: DJ Tiesto, base jumping and Gorillaz...

THE IT CROWD

HEY MR DJ

Brian Dunn, Best Buy CEO,says he loves Facebook and

Twitter but still feels self-conscious‘tweeting’ in public. LOL

Best Buy chief marketingofficer Barry Judge

@BestBuyCMO @kevinrose

OUT OF OFFICE


12 months ago peoplestarted hyping ‘web 3.0’

then mobile exploded and nowno one cares, i love howquickly things shift in tech

Digg.com founder Kevin Rose

Five Intel engineers ‘base jumped’ from the top of thechip giant’s Romanian headquarters last month, inorder to hoot five giant horns, playing differentmusical notes.

Beniamin Korzha, Victor Szekely, Alex Troester,Philip Rom and Marius ‘Terminator’ Dudnic trainedon spring boards and hurricane-force wind simulatorsbefore taking the plunge from the six-storey building

“Base jumpers normally have parachutes and ouroffice is not high enough for a parachute to open, sowe knew we would need airbags for the jumpers toland on. Then we realised: hey, we can make hornsfrom the airbags, like on a bicycle,” said softwarevalidation engineer Iulian Sabau, who organised thestunt after five Finnish Intel employees shotthemselves out of cannons earlier in the year.

WHO’D WORK FOR INTEL…?

Right: PCR’s Carly and Rosiecosy up to DJ Tiesto

Left: Iulian Sabau with the five base jumpers

Send your pictures to:[email protected]

WORKING FOR AVG, you soon realise there is no suchthing as a normal day – every day throws something differentat you and you quickly learn to expect the unexpected. Thisis particularly good for me, as I tend to have the tolerancelevel of a gnat. The only thing I can be sure of is that I will behitting the M6 motorway at some point.

Right now, AVG is a hive of activity, as we areannouncing Internet Security 2011, so the run-up to theOctober launch has been especially busy for me.

My typical day is usually spent discussing opportunitiesfor sell-through of our retail products and talking topotential supply partners to agree joint deals and productbundling. I also engineer new deals to leverage value formoney for my retail partners and enable them to offer thebest services and products to their customers.

I spend a lot of time on the road and cover about 5,000miles a month. I attend a lot of meetings in London andalso take a few ferries over to Dublin as we’re currentlytrying to establish a strong retail presence in Ireland. Iwouldn’t survive without my BlackBerry to keep track of allmy emails, but tend to take calls through my iPhone as I’man Apple addict and wouldn’t be without it.

Having been in the industry for years, I can honestly sayI thoroughly enjoy my job. The people I work with arepassionate about AVG and it is a pleasure to work withthem. Everyone is really committed and this isdemonstrated by the many awards we have won. You’llalways find the AVG team are super efficient and superkeen. I’m just pleased to be part of an organisation thatlives and breathes an ethos of ‘it’s all about you’ and reallydelivers on that promise.

“I wouldn’t survive without myBlackBerry to keep track of all my

emails, but I tend to take callsthrough my iPhone as I’m an

Apple addict.”

Scott Barnsley,Head of UK Retail Sales, AVG

Damon Albarn’s animated band Gorillaz has teamed up with Microsoft tocelebrate the beta launch of Internet Explorer 9. Fans who download the newbrowser will be able to enjoy new multimedia content on the Gorillaz website,which Microsoft is also featuring on its own specially designed microsite.

Nielsen rprt a 40% increase inUK web users visiting gambling

sites - that’s 3.2m new users: hmmmnot q what raceonline2012.orgis all about!

Digital champion Martha Lane Fox

@Marthalanefox

I’m filming in the formerstudios of ‘The Bill’ and have

discovered that, while the showhas been cancelled, itswireless broadband hasn’t.

Actor and comedian David Mitchell

@RealDMitchell

OUT OF OFFICE


A day in the life

Above: SanDisk’s VIP area at the gig

Left: DJ Tiesto on the decks

Left: SanDisk’s EMEA productmarketing manager RubenDennenwaldt with Nikki Willcock,UK regional marketing manager

MONKEY BUSINESS

bookmark us in your phone:

mobile.pcretailmag.com

LATEST NEWSSTRAIGHT TO YOUR MOBILE

OUT OF OFFICE

Describe yourself in three wordsFat, loud, proud

How do you relax away from work? By sitting

What’s your favourite book? Five go off in a caravan - Enid Blyton

What’s your favourite film? Bambi

What’s your favourite album? Theme from The Deer Hunter

What was your first computer? Atari

Who’s the funniest person you’ve ever met? Craig Gore from KMS (or at least he thinks so)

What did you want to do when you were younger? Jane Seymour

Alan Preston, Purchaser, KMS Components

In the

HOT SEAT

DECEMBER 2010Advertising deadline: November 17th� External hard drives � Self improvement and creative software� MP3 players and accessories� Distributor opening times

JANUARY 2011Advertising deadline: TBC� Printers � Smartphones� ISPs � Speakers and headphones

FEBRUARY 2011Advertising deadline: TBCGAMING ISSUE� Graphics cards � Displays� Gaming hardware � Games� Consoles

MARCH 2011Advertising deadline: TBC� Home security� Networking� Security software� TV and video technology

NOVEMBER 2010Advertising deadline: October 20th

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL� Notebooks, laptop bags and accessories� Children’s entertainment software� Novelty gadgets, kids gadgets and executive toys

To advertise call Carly Bailey on +44 (0) 1992 535647 or [email protected]

For editorial please contact Andrew Wooden on +44 (0) 1992535646 or email him at [email protected]

PCR Editorial Planner


Business users want...

Protection that allows them to leverage all the internet has to offer

Protection across the entire system

Protection matched to their resources

Protection that stays out of the end user’s way

AVG 2011 answers...

Unrivalled depth and breadth in SMB web protection

Comprehensive laptop, pc, workstation, email server and fi le server protection

Lighter, smarter engineering designed specifi cally for the limited IT resources of the SMB

AVG Smart Scanning – waits until the PC isn’t being used and doesn’t scan previously vetted fi les

SMB resources” protection

“Give us big

for

AVG’s glooball coommmmuunnityy iss 11110 mmilllion peoplee sttronnng aannd ggrroowwingg. Eaacchh day they prrovvidee AVVGG wiith 1.55 bbillllion ppotential threatss to evvvaluuaatte.. FFrommm thhhis, wwee identify and remoove ovverr 100 mmilllioonnn thhrreeaats every single daay. AAAll in neeaarr reeall timee..

DDiscovver mmore rright now aatwwww.avg.cco.ukk/reseellerr

SMBs want protection designed specifi cally for them.

AVVG 220111 is yoouur neww aansswwwer

Why new AVG 2011?Lighter, smarter, faster protection? It’s precisely what your customers have been waiting for, shaped around the way they work, live and play in the real world.

Engineered to deliver greater home and business security in a way that demands less of end users, administrators and you the reseller.

All about them, all about you.AVG 2011 represents a fresh, new option. Your opportunity to help your customers and build your reputation (and bottom line) at the same time.

Talk to us today about the bonus launch margins, compelling end user offers and great marketing support that AVG 2011 could bring to your business.

Discover more right now at

www.avg.co.uk/resellerEmail: [email protected] Phone 01636 658016

Documents

PCR - October 2010 -Issue 85