Cartoon Network and The LEGO Group Reveal Groundbreaking IP Development with New Mixels Franchise
Multiple Mixels Elements Set to Launch in 2014
ATLANTA, July 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Cartoon Network and The LEGO Group announced today that they will jointly produce an unprecedented new global entertainment franchise. Launching in 2014, Mixels is the next franchise in integrated family entertainment from two of the world's leading experts in youth engagement. The new venture will feature animated content (primarily shorts), a rich digital gaming experience, a collectible building toy concept and more.
Animated content will air on Cartoon Network and on http://www.cartoonnetwork.com, featuring the colorful Mixels creatures that can mix and combine with one another in creative and unpredictable storylines. A collectible portfolio of low-priced mini building sets will launch in three waves in 2014 and an app-powered gaming experience will engage fans in a deep mobile game that will cover the sprawling world of Mixels.
Mixels was developed through a true collaboration between Cartoon Network, a leading global kids entertainment company, and The LEGO Group, globally renowned for its heritage of quality, creative play experiences. The two companies joined forces when Cartoon Network Studios had an interest in creating original content based on the inherent open-ended values of LEGO(®) play, at the same time that The LEGO Group was exploring a new concept involving small creatures - and Mixels was born. The property was developed by a multinational team of content innovators, designers and animators - from Los Angeles to Atlanta to San Diego to Connecticut to Denmark.
"This is the next step in the evolution of Cartoon Network Studios and the way we develop original IP," said Rob Sorcher, chief content officer,Cartoon Network. "Bringing together world-class animators and game developers with LEGO content and product design teams at the earliest stages of creation proved to be an energizing collaboration, showcasing the creative strengths of both brands."
"Our relationship with Cartoon Network has really evolved and they have been really great, supportive partners who share our passion for children," said Jill Wilfert, vice president licensing and entertainment for The LEGO Group. "After working closely with them for the last few years, it is obvious that they truly understand and fully embrace our brand and our core values, so we are thrilled to embark on this new journey to develop and deliver a highly creative and fully integrated new experience with them."
"Families today are engaged in many ways and want a seamless entertainment experience," said Stuart Snyder, president and chief operating officer for Turner's Animation, Young Adults & Kids Media Division. "The reach of all the Cartoon Network platforms combined with the different touch points of the beloved LEGO brand will enable us to create a fully integrated and rich experience from the very beginning."
Mixels will inspire new ways for young people to engage in immersive entertainment content that fuels sustainable, creative physical and virtual play. Fans and the audience will become creators and active participants in the process, creating new characters and content. This is a multi-format, multi-platform experience where a kid can join in anytime, anywhere.
With this exciting new franchise, Cartoon Network Studios will drive all narrative, animation and digital content and Cartoon Network Enterprises will handle Mixels non-toy licensed merchandise. The LEGO Group will focus on Mixels toy design, manufacture and distribution as well as licensed LEGO Mixels publishing to support the property.
Cartoon Network (CartoonNetwork.com) consistently is the #1 U.S. television network among boys 6-11. Currently seen in nearly 100 million U.S. homes and 194 countries around the world, Cartoon Network is Turner Broadcasting System, Inc.'s ad-supported cable service now available in HD offering the best in original, acquired and classic entertainment for kids and families. In addition to Emmy®-winning original programming and industry-leading digital apps and online games, Cartoon Network embraces key social issues affecting families with solution-oriented initiatives such as Stop Bullying: Speak Up and the Move It Movement.
The LEGO Group is a privately held, family-owned company, based in Billund, Denmark. It was founded in 1932 and today the group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of play materials for children. The LEGO Group is committed to the development of children's creative and imaginative abilities. LEGO products can be purchased in more than 130 countries. For more information, visit http://www.LEGO.com.
CONTACT: Cartoon Network: Atlanta, James Anderson, 404-885-4205, james.anderson@turner.com, or Farrah Hersh, 404-575-9283, farrah.hersh@turner.com, or Los Angeles, Courtenay Palaski, 310-788-6903, courtenay.palaski@turner.com; or LEGO: Connecticut, Michael McNally, 860-763-7825, press@america.lego.com
Sennheiser releases PRESENCE(TM) Mobile Series - a premium headset for Unified Communications and on-the-go business professionals
OLD LYME, Conn., July 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Sennheiser, a leading provider of premium headset solutions, released its PRESENCE(TM) Mobile Series, a solution for the business professional requiring outstanding sound quality and HD voice clarity - whether around the office, in the car or outdoors. Building on Sennheiser's 70-year legacy of sound leadership, the innovative new SpeakFocus(TM) and WindSafe(TM) technologies provide the user with a rich communication experience in noisy environments - both indoors and outdoors.
As business professionals increasingly work from locations away from the office, they are still expected to be accessible on the go and require technology they can rely on in any environment. Sennheiser has answered these customer needs by introducing a premium mobile headset that combines outstanding sound quality and a slim discrete design.
PRESENCE(TM) Mobile Series is equipped with Sennheiser HD voice clarity that delivers a superior listening experience. Sennheiser has invested tremendous effort in ensuring that both parties on a call can hear each other clearly. PRESENCE(TM) Mobile Series headsets are equipped with three digital microphones and the new SpeakFocus(TM) technology that detects the user's voice and filters out background noise, allowing phone calls in noisy environments and providing listeners with a crystal clear sound experience.
WindSafe(TM) technology reduces wind noise effectively, reducing one of the biggest annoyances for the listener at the other end of the line. It does so by choosing the best mix of the three microphones and processes the sound to determine the optimal way to balance and enhance the voice of the user.
PRESENCE(TM) Mobile Series has been designed for Unified Communications professionals. The solution consists of a headset and a USB dongle that allows for a plug & play experience with computers - switching seamlessly between a mobile phone and the Unified Communications client. PRESENCE Mobile Series is also optimized to be used with Microsoft Lync(TM).
PRESENCE(TM) Mobile Series features up to 10 hour's talk time, increased range of up to 25 meters when used with the dongle and highly intuitive operation, for example with an on/off power slide and voice prompts for the user on the move. While feature-packed, the headset's slim iconic design and short aluminum microphone boom arm represents the ultimate in discretion for business professionals. PRESENCE(TM) Mobile Series, is also equipped with the uniquely patented ActiveGard® hearing protection system to safeguard users against hazardous noises that can be dangerous to hearing.
Andreas Bach, President at Sennheiser Communications said: "With the evolution of the modern enterprise towards more flexible, agile working practices that allow people to work remotely and across multiple locations, there is a need for a high-quality headset solution that can meet these demands. PRESENCE(TM) Mobile Series incorporates Sennheiser's latest innovations - the SpeakFocus(TM) and WindSafe(TM) technologies - providing users with outstanding sound quality and performance they will appreciate wherever they are."
The Sennheiser PRESENCE(TM) will be available 1(st) August 2013.
For more information, visit sennheiserusa.com.
SOURCE Sennheiser
Sennheiser
CONTACT: Jeff Touzeau, 1-914-602-2913, jeff@hummingbirdmedia.com
MICT: Micronet Announced First North American Client for its New Android-Based Rugged Tablet
Commercial Volume Deployments of Recently Launched Open Platform Tablets to Start in 2014
EMERSON, N.J., July 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Micronet Ltd., a subsidiary of Micronet Enertec Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: MICT), announced today that its recently launched A-300 - Android based rugged tablet was selected by a leading North American solution provider in the Fleet Management industry. The A-300 tablet will be installed in large commercial fleets providing a comprehensive Fleet Management and Mobile Resource Management solution.
With the A-300 on board, commercial fleet operators can go beyond standard 'track and trace' applications, to full mobile workforce management solutions, supporting Driver electronic logs, in-cab Navigation, in-cab Scanning and Printing, in-cab Video Driver training, two-way Messaging and Dispatch, Form-based status reporting, and more.
In addition, the new A-300 series features Micronet's new patent-pending Guardian System Design (GSD), a solution that enables cloud based remote technical support and in-field device management over the life time of the product. Key functions include:
-- Remote device management
-- Software and hardware self-diagnostics and recovery
-- Fail-safe Firmware and Application Over the Air (OTA) updates
This is a SaaS offering that Micronet is implementing, based on a recurring revenue business model.
As all other Micronet products, the A-300 is a fully programmable mobile computer, enabling independent application development, using Micronet's comprehensive hardware and software development toolkits. The tablet's advanced system architecture allows flexible integration with various vehicle systems and ancillary equipment used by drivers in and out of the cabin.
Micronet's CEO Rafi Katz commented: "As a company that focuses on innovation derived from our clients' evolving needs, we're proud to announce a first new client, shortly after the introduction of our new Android based product. This win validates our vision of providing cost-effective, advanced and innovative products to the MRM market."
"For over a decade, this vision has made Micronet the partner of choice of leading MRM companies, and we are striving to maintain this unique industry position and continue to grow our market share."
About Micronet Ltd.
Micronet LTD is a subsidiary of Micronet Enertec. The Company develops, manufactures and markets internationally, rugged, automotive-grade, mobile computers, specifically designed for Fleet management and Mobile workforce management solutions and services.
About Micronet Enertec Technologies, Inc. ("MICT")
MICT, formerly known as Lapis Technologies, Inc., is a technology company that designs, develops, manufactures and sells rugged mobile computing devices that provide the MRM (Mobile Resource Management) market, fleet operators and field workforces with computing solutions in challenging work environments.
The Company operates through two subsidiaries, Enertec Systems 2001 Ltd ("Enertec"), its wholly-owned subsidiary, and Micronet Ltd ("Micronet"), in which it has a controlling interest. Micronet operates in the growing commercial Mobile Resource Management (MRM) market, mainly in the United States. Enertec operates in the Defense and Aerospace markets and designs, develops, manufactures and supplies various customized military computer-based systems for missile defense systems, command and control and others. For more information please visit: http://www.micronet-enertec.com
Forward-looking Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "expect," "believe," "intend," "plan," "continue," "may," "will," "anticipate," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statement. More detailed information about the risk factors affecting the Company's performance is contained under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual report filed with the SEC, which is available on the SEC's web site, http://www.sec.gov. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflect management's analyses only as of the date hereof. The Company neither intends to, nor assumes any obligation to, update or revise these forward-looking statements in light of developments that differ from those anticipated.
Playtech Introduces Game-specific and Free Spin Bonuses
LONDON, July 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --
Playtech [http://www.playtech.com ], the international designer, developer, licensor
and provider of software and services for the online, mobile, TV and land-based gaming
industry, is pleased to announce the launch of Game-specific and Free Spin Bonuses for all
its games.
The all new Game-specific Bonuses allow operators to grant players bonuses specific to
a particular game, category of games or on a particular platform. This exciting feature
introduces a new level of flexibility for operators aiming to create targeted promotions,
as the bonus funds are for specified games.
The unique Free Spins Bonus feature provides operators with an alternative promotional
tool for slots players. This is a particularly good acquisition marketing tool as it
allows operators to introduce new customers to a game with minimal monetary commitment.
Shimon Akad, Playtech's VP Operations commented, "We are thrilled to introduce these
industry-leading features to market. They provide a level of flexibility that will help
our valued operators to improve their marketing efforts tremendously and therefore
increase their success and revenue. We believe these features represent the future of how
operators target customers and have already received very positive feedback from some of
our larger licensees."
About Playtech
Playtech develops unified software platforms and content for the online and land-based
gaming industry, together with providing a range of ancillary services such as marketing,
hosting and CRM services.
The Group's capabilities enable the delivery of an integrated software or turnkey
solution, with players accessing online, broadcast, mobile and server-based gaming
terminals through a single account.
New licensees include existing online operators upgrading or diversifying their
offering, land-based casino groups, government sponsored entities such as lotteries, and
new entrants making their online gaming debut, particularly in newly-regulated markets.
Founded in 1999, Playtech is listed on the London Stock Exchange and has over 2,700
employees located in eleven countries. Its leading gaming applications include casino,
poker, bingo, sports betting, live, mobile and social gaming, casual and fixed odds games.
Playtech Ltd
Mor Weizer, Chief Executive Officer
Ron Hoffman, Chief Financial Officer
c/o Pelham Bell Pottinger
+44(0)20-7861-3232
Adam Kay, Head of Investor Relations
+44(0)1624-645954
Pelham Bell Pottinger
David Rydell / Olly Scott / Guy Scarborough
+44(0)20-7861-3232
Sharp Launches The LL-S201A, A Versatile 20" Class Full HD Multi-Touch Monitor
MAHWAH, N.J., July 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, today announced the 20-inch-class (19.5" diagonal) full HD multi-touch monitor, LL-S201A, showcased at InfoComm 2013, has begun shipping.
The LL-S201A, part of the Professional Touch Display product family, packs the power of the award-winning Sharp AQUOS BOARD(TM) Interactive Display System into a sleek, lightweight design. Ideal for use in business, medical and education environments as a complement to the AQUOS BOARD display, the LL-S201A is an indispensable part of everyday communication, no matter who is using it.
The 20-inch-class touchscreen LCD panel delivers 1,920 x 1,080-pixel full-High Definition resolution with performance-enhancing UV(2)A technology to help prevent light leakage for truly bright whites and extremely deep blacks.
The 10-point multi-touch screen and Palm Cancellation Function prioritizes the touch of the pen over the touch of your hand so you can write smoothly with the pen, while your hand rests on the screen. When connected to a device running Windows® 8, the monitor serves as an intuitive interface. The display also offers a variety of usage styles to match the way you work.
-- Standing Style - A dedicated stand props the monitor at an easy-to-view
75 degree angle, making it ideal for use as a PC monitor or display.
-- Pen Writing Style - Sharp Pen Software(TM) utility lets users enjoy
natural handwriting functionality, just like the AQUOS BOARD Interactive
Display.
-- Tablet Style - Laid flat and facing upwards, the monitor can be viewed
like a sheet of paper or a tablet, allowing for several people to view
at once.
Weighing only 5.1 lbs. and approximately 1-inch thick, the thin, lightweight design makes it easy to move about and enables users to easily switch between standing, pen writing, or horizontal usage styles. The LL-S201A also features a narrow half-inch bezel and a "full-flat" screen that's seamlessly flush with the bezel. This makes it ideal for touchscreen operations that involve swiping from the edge of the screen.
The LL-S201A is now available from Sharp Authorized Pro AV Dealers and Resellers. The shipping weight for the LL-S201A is 9.5 lbs.
About Sharp Electronics Corporation
Sharp Electronics Corporation is the U.S. subsidiary of Japan's Sharp Corporation, a worldwide developer of one-of-a-kind home entertainment products, appliances, networked multifunctional office solutions, solar energy solutions, LED lighting and mobile communication and information tools.
Sharp is the #1 brand in 60" + Large-Format Commercial Displays through B2B Sales Channels*. Sharp's professional and commercial displays are specially engineered for business applications and are offered in a wide range of sizes. From high-impact displays for digital signage, to our award-winning ultra-thin bezel video walls, to the innovative AQUOS BOARD(TM) interactive display systems, Sharp products help you communicate, collaborate, and disseminate information brilliantly.
*According to NPD Display Search Monthly US Sell-Through Database for Large-Format Commercial Displays Report, April 2013.
For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at http://www.sharpusa.com. Follow us on Facebook, or Twitter and watch us on YouTube.
A10 Networks Expands Thunder Series Unified Application Service Gateway Family
New Entry-level Thunder 3030S, 1030S and 930 add 30% Increased Capacity, 500% Higher SSL Performance and 10 Gb Ports for Next Generation Application Delivery
SAN JOSE, Calif., July 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- A10 Networks, Inc., the technology leader in Application Networking, today announced its new entry-level A10 Thunder(TM) Series, extending its family of Unified Application Service Gateways (UASGs) to small/medium business and enterprise customers. Joining the award winning, high-end Thunder 6430(S) and 5430S are the new Thunder 3030S, 1030S and 930, which expand the line of next-generation Application Delivery Controllers (ADCs). All are compact 1 rack-unit (RU) appliances that provide advanced functionality by consolidating premium, all-inclusive application services in a single and easy to manage platform.
"Our new Thunder models extend the expansive benefits of our Unified Application Service Gateway family to the entry-level and mid-range markets," said Lee Chen, Founder and CEO of A10 Networks. "With the new Thunder 3030S, 1030S and 930 UASGs, customers receive additional value to optimize and scale their existing infrastructure, reduce latency and cost through device consolidation, and increase management efficiency."
Today's networks are increasingly complex with many disparate systems that increase latency, complexity and cost. Built on A10's scalable and flexible Advanced Core Operating System (ACOS) architecture, all A10 Thunder UASGs integrate the following modules to provide the most effective solution.
-- Application Delivery: Combines next-generation Application Delivery
Controller (ADC) and Server Load Balancing (SLB) functionality for
optimization and acceleration, full Layer 4-7 support, scalability and
availability. Additional advanced modules include Global Server Load
Balancing (GSLB) and Application Delivery Partitions (ADPs) for
multi-tenancy through virtualization to enable more applications and
more services.
-- Security: Integrates home-grown services including a Web Application
Firewall (WAF) for website protection, DNS Application Firewall (DAF)
for DNS infrastructure protection, Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS)
protection for next-generation attack mitigation, SSL Intercept (SI) to
inspect encrypted traffic and Application Access Management (AAM) for
pre-authentication.
-- Cloud, Software-defined Networking (SDN) and Next Gen Networking: Adds
modern data center solutions such as aCloud with billing options for
pay-as-you go/grow, SDN solutions including integration with vendors
such as NEC for dynamic scaling with Layer 4-7 intelligence for OpenFlow
Controllers, Carrier Grade NAT (CGNAT) for IPv4 preservation, and IPv6
solutions including multiple advanced migration options.
The Thunder 3030S, 1030S and 930 include up to 30 percent more capacity, 500 percent more SSL performance and improved hardware, including 10 Gb port connectivity standard on all models, to run more services while increasing capacity for application intelligence and service offload. Increased capacity delivers the ability to offload multiple networking and security tasks. Customers can optimize networks, extend the lifetime of their existing devices, and reduce point solutions for device consolidation and significant CAPEX and OPEX savings. Higher 2048-bit key SSL performance enables customers to run highly secure encrypted sessions pervasively with more applications.
A10 Thunder 3030S- Enterprise UASG
-- 750,000 connections per second (CPS), 30 Gbps of application throughput,
14,000 SSL CPS (2048-bit key) and support for up to 64 million
concurrent sessions
-- Hardware highlights: 4 x 10-Gigabit ports (SFP+), 6 x 1-Gigabit Copper,
2 x 1-Gigabit SFP ports, NITROX III SSL ASIC and 16 GB of RAM
-- Maximum power consumption of only 139 Watts
A10 Thunder 1030S - Small Enterprise UASG
-- 450,000 CPS, 10 Gbps of application throughput, 7,000 SSL CPS (2048-bit
key) and support for up to 32 million concurrent sessions
-- Hardware highlights: 2 x 10-Gigabit ports (SFP+), 6 x 1-Gigabit Copper,
2 x 1-Gigabit SFP ports, NITROX III SSL ASIC and 8 GB of RAM
-- Maximum power consumption of only 108 Watts
A10 Thunder 930 - Entry-level UASG
-- 200,000 CPS, 5 Gbps of application throughput, and support for up to 16
million concurrent sessions
-- Hardware highlights: 2 x 10-Gigabit ports (SFP+), 6 x 1-Gigabit Copper,
2 x 1-Gigabit SFP ports and 8 GB of RAM
-- Maximum power consumption of only 76 Watts
All new entry-level Thunder appliances include an Intel Ivy Bridge Xeon CPU, solid-state drive (SSD), hot-swap smart fans and 80 Plus "Platinum" efficiency (best-in-class) power supplies. The Thunder 3030S and 1030S also include Lights-out Management (LOM).
A10 Thunder 3030S, 1030S and 930's optimized design delivers the following benefits that lead the Application Networking industry:
-- Efficient Performance Value
-- A10's scalable ACOS helps reduce the costs to deliver applications
to as low as $0.04 per connection without any further costs for
features, which is 5x lower than competitors' similarly priced
models.
-- Maximum Uptime
-- Best-in-class hardware and design eliminates down-time. SSDs, no
inaccessible moving parts, hot swap smart fans and LOM ensure
availability.
-- Green Networking
-- Highly compact, 1 RU design combined with 80 Plus "Platinum"
efficiency power supplies deliver the highest performance per Watt
and the lowest overall power usage.
Scalable Virtualization
A10 Thunder 3030S, 1030S and 930 include scalable virtualization without any per-instance fees, with support for up to 64 Application Delivery Partitions (ADPs) on a single platform for high-speed hardware multi-tenancy. Each partition can run multiple converged applications or services on demand, further reducing deployment time and cost. With an aVCS (virtual chassis) configuration, the A10 Thunder Series appliances typically increase capacity up to 8x versus legacy solutions, with the additional benefit of a single point of management. Using aVCS with ADP capabilities can increase UASG instance density up to 64x.
Supporting Quotes
"With its new Thunder Series, A10 delivers enormous value by adding additional advanced Application Networking modules into compact, high-performance appliances. Expanding its rock-solid load balancing and industry-leading IPv6 migration solutions, Thunder's new security modules give us even more opportunities to provide value and efficient networking to our customers."
Jeff Doyle, Vice President of Engineering for TorreyPoint
"The rich feature set within A10's next-generation Application Delivery Controllers continues to increase the value of its platforms. For example using A10's high-performance virtualization option allows us to have a single solution to keep our operational costs predictable and simplify our IT environment. A10 ADCs enable us to run Microsoft Exchange 2013, Lync 2013 and Direct Access as different tenants on the same device to meet and exceed service level agreements for all of our users."
George Hamin, Director eBusiness & Information Systems for Subaru Canada, Inc.
Availability
A10 Thunder 3030S, 1030S and 930 are available immediately with ACOS 2.7.1-P1.
Additional Resources
Thunder Series Datasheet
Thunder Series White Paper: 10 Reasons to Select A10 UASGs
Thunder 3030S, 1030S and 930 SlideShare Presentation
About A10 Networks
A10 Networks was founded in Q4 2004 with a mission to provide innovative networking and security solutions. A10 Networks makes high-performance products that help organizations accelerate, optimize and secure their applications. A10 Networks is headquartered in Silicon Valley with offices in the United States, United Kingdom, France, The Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Brazil, Japan, China, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore and Malaysia. For more information, visit http://www.a10networks.com
A10 Networks, A10 Thunder, vThunder, ACOS, aCloud, aFleX, aXAPI, aVCS, Virtual Chassis, SoftAX, and aFlow are trademarks or registered trademarks of A10 Networks, Inc. in the United States and other countries.
The Build-A-Bear Workshop® Bear Valley(TM) App Brings the Teddy Bear to Life On iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch
WOODLAND HILLS, Calif., July 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- 505 Games, a global publisher of video games, in partnership with Build-A-Bear Workshop(®)(NYSE: BBW) todayannounced the launch of Build-A-Bear Workshop(®) Bear Valley((TM))( )for iPhone(®), iPad(®) and iPod touch(®). Developed by WayForward, the game lets Build-A-Bear Workshop enthusiasts make their own furry friends as they visit and explore Bear Valley and engage in tons of fun and activities.
In Bear Valley, fans can take their bears shopping for the latest fashion trends, treat them to a day at the spa, customize their own Cub Condo(®), plus visit Paw Print Park to enjoy slides, swings, a merry-go-round and more.
Additional features include:
-- An outdoor theatre where bears perform musical Bear Bops and put on
fashion shows.
-- A customizable Pawsome Pad with curtains, furniture, wallpaper and
electronics.
-- The Bear Farm where players can grow crops, milk cows and gather eggs.
-- A toy vendor where bears visit to ride skateboards, fly kites, and inner
tube down the Bear Valley River.
-- Strike-A-Pose Studio where bears participate in scavenger hunts.
-- Bearemy's Bakery where bears prepare delicious goodies.
The Build-A-Bear Workshop Bear Valley App is available for $4.99 from the App Store on iPhone, iPad and iPod touch or at https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/build-bear-workshop-bear-valley/id642933831?ls=1&mt=8
About Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc.
Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. is the only global company that offers an interactive make-your-own stuffed animal retail-entertainment experience. There are more than 400 Build-A-Bear Workshop stores worldwide, including company-owned stores in the U.S., Puerto Rico, Canada, the United Kingdom and Ireland, and franchise stores in Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, the Middle East, Mexico and South America. Founded in St. Louis in 1997, Build-A-Bear Workshop is the leader in interactive retail. Brands include make-your-own Major League Baseball(®) mascot in-stadium locations, and Build-A-Dino(®) stores. Build-A-Bear Workshop extends its in-store interactive experience online with its award winning virtual world Web site at bearville.com((TM)). The company was named to the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For(®)( )list for the fifth year in a row in 2013. Build-A-Bear Workshop (NYSE: BBW) posted total revenue of $380.9 million in fiscal 2012. For more information, call 888.560.BEAR (2327) or visit the company's award-winning Web site at buildabear.com(®).
About 505 Games
505 Games is a global video game publisher focused on offering a broad selection of titles for players of all ages and levels. The company publishes games on leading console and handheld platforms as well as for mobile devices and social networks. Product highlights include Sniper Elite V2, Terraria, Way of The Dogg, Naughty Bear as well as the upcoming Brothers - A Tale of TwoSons, PAYDAY 2,TAKEDOWN: Red Sabre, How to Survive and Rekoil.
505 Games has offices in Los Angeles, Milton Keynes, UK, Lyon, Munich, Milan and Madrid and a network of distribution partners within the Nordic territories and Australia. For more information on 505 Games and its products please visit http://www.505games.com.
Nickelodeon and Activision Reveal New Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles(TM) Video Game Based on The Network's Hit CG-Animated Series
NEW YORK, July 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Nickelodeon and Activision Publishing, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Activision Blizzard (Nasdaq: ATVI), today revealed their collaboration on an all-new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles(TM) video game inspired by the network's hit CG-animated series. This side-scrolling action-brawler game features an authentic storyline ripe with franchise-favorite characters and locations, with loads of combat and animated scenes. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles(TM) is expected to launch Oct. 22 in North America, Oct. 23 in Asia and Australia, and Oct. 25 across Europe and Latin America for the Xbox 360® games and entertainment system from Microsoft, Nintendo Wii(TM) system and Nintendo 3DS(TM).
"We're thrilled to debut this new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles video game for our younger Turtles fans," said Sherice Torres, Senior Vice President of Entertainment Products, Nickelodeon Consumer Products. "Jam-packed with all the ninjas, nunchucks and non-stop action Turtles fans crave, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is set to delight fans around the globe when it launches in time for the holidays."
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is an energetic game that stays true to the classic Turtles-style gameplay and atmosphere. With four-person, local, drop-in-and-out co-op play (Xbox 360 and Wii only), the game features character upgrades, secondary items, and multiple gameplay modes. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles for Xbox 360 and Nintendo 3DS is rated E 10+ (Everyone 10+ - content generally suitable for ages 10 and up) by the ESRB. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles for Wii is not yet rated by the ESRB.
Nickelodeon's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles CG-animated series premiered Sept. 29, 2012, and was an instant hit. It's currently one of the top animated series with kids and boys 2-11, and reaches approximately 24 million viewers per month on Nickelodeon*. Funnier and with more ninjutsu than ever before, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles explores the companionship of four teenage brothers learning to rely on themselves and one another as they unravel the mystery of their existence, and grow to become the heroes-in-a-half-shell that they are destined to be. The series airs regularly on Nickelodeon, Saturday mornings at 11:00 a.m. ET/PT. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property won the 2013 TOTY Awards for Property of the Year and Boy Toy of the Year.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles CG-animated series will be available worldwide in more than 45 markets and translated into eight languages: English, Spanish (Latin America), Spanish (Spain), German, French, Dutch, Swedish and Italian.
About Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon, now in its 34(th) year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in almost 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 18 consecutive years. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIA.B).
About Activision Publishing, Inc.
Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products.
Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, South Korea, China and the region of Taiwan. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's website, http://www.activision.com.
* Source: NMR, Most current, 3Q-to-date (7/1/13-7/11/13), minimum 2 telecasts
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements: Information in this press release that involves Activision Publishing's expectations, plans, intentions or strategies regarding the future, including statements about the expected release date are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause Activision Publishing's actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements set forth in this release include unanticipated product delays and other factors identified in the risk factors sections of Activision Blizzard's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to Activision Publishing and Activision Blizzard as of the date of this release, and neither Activision Publishing nor Activision Blizzard assumes any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements believed to be true when made may ultimately prove to be incorrect. These statements are not guarantees of the future performance of Activision Publishing or Activision Blizzard and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond its control and may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.
Activision is a registered trademark of Activision Publishing, Inc. Nintendo trademarks and copyrights are properties of Nintendo. All other trademarks and trade names are the properties of their respective owners. All rights reserved.
SOURCE Nickelodeon
Nickelodeon
CONTACT: Tori Fernandes, Tori.Fernandes@nick.com, 1-212-846-4942
Gameloft, Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment Reach 50 Million Downloads of Top Mobile Game, "Despicable Me: Minion Rush"
PARIS, July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --
Following the launch of Gameloft's hit mobile title, "Despicable Me: Minion Rush," the
game reached more than 50 million downloads on the App Store and Google Play in one month.
Since its release on June 13, 2013, the game reached #1 of the Top Free Apps in more than
100 countries on iOS, and maintained that peak position for three consecutive weeks in the
U.S. Customer ratings are also exceptional, with an average rating of 4.5/5 on the App
Store and Google Play. The game was developed in coordination with Universal Partnerships
& Licensing (UP&L) and Illumination Entertainment.
"We are proud to have brought all the fun, humor and mischief of the film into this
original game, said Gonzague De Vallois, Senior Vice-President Publishing at Gameloft.
"Despicable Me: Minion Rush is a huge success for Gameloft, Universal and Illumination
alike, and we are thrilled that our players have put so much support behind this
franchise!"
"We are excited to see the amazing success of the game and the fact that players are
so engaged with the characters from Despicable Me that audiences have come to know and
love," said Stephanie Sperber, President of Universal Partnerships & Licensing. "The
teamwork between Gameloft, Universal and Illumination resulted in a visually stunning
game, offering hours of fun for everyone."
Gameloft plans to continue to support "Despicable Me: Minion Rush" with new content,
beginning with the first free update, available on iOS and very soon on Android. The
update is directly inspired from the 3D-CG comedy adventure, Despicable Me 2, which set
new box office records across the globe and placed number one in 45 of 53 markets,
including North America, in its opening week.
New game features include:
- A full new environment: El Macho's Lair, including the film's new villain
El Macho and the purple Evil Minions.
- New costumes for Minions: The Golfer and highly popular "Bee-do" alarm Minion!
- New challenges: more than 150 new missions and achievements
This first update to "Despicable Me: Minion Rush" is now available on the App Store
and very soon on Google Play.
About Despicable Me 2
Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment's worldwide blockbuster Despicable
Me entertained audiences around the globe in 2010, grossing more than $540 million and
becoming the 10th-biggest animated motion picture in U.S. history.
Released this July, Chris Meledandri and his acclaimed filmmaking team created an
all-new comedy adventure featuring the return of (former?) super-villain Gru (Steve
Carell), his adorable girls, the unpredictably hilarious Minions...and a host of new and
outrageously funny characters. http://www.despicable.me
About Gameloft
A leading global publisher of digital and social games, Gameloft(R) has established
itself as one of the top innovators in its field since 2000. Gameloft creates games for
all digital platforms, including mobile phones, smartphones and tablets (including
Apple(R) iOS and Android(R) devices), set-top boxes and connected TVs. Gameloft operates
its own established franchises such as Asphalt(R), Real Football(R), Modern Combat, and
N.O.V.A.: Near Orbit Vanguard Alliance(R), and also partners with major rights holders
including Disney(R), Marvel(R), Hasbro(R), FOX(R), Mattel(R) and Ferrari(R). Gameloft is
present on all continents, distributes its games in over 100 countries and employs over
5,000 developers.
Gameloft is listed on NYSE Euronext Paris (NYSE Euronext: GFT.PA, Bloomberg: GFT FP,
Reuters: GLFT.PA). Gameloft's sponsored Level 1 ADR (ticker: GLOFY) is traded OTC in the
US.
About Universal Partnerships & Licensing
UP&L oversees Universal's consumer product licensing, film and home entertainment
promotions, and all corporate alliances for Universal's theatrical, home entertainment,
theme parks and stage productions. This dedicated division is also responsible for
monetizing the Studio's vast library of films and characters through licensing, branding
and marketing opportunities. UP&L is part of NBCUniversal. NBCUniversal is one of the
world's leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and
marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns
and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment networks, a premier motion
picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television
stations group and world-renowned theme parks. NBCUniversal is owned by Comcast
Corporation.
FutureLogic's GEN3 Evolution® Printer Sets Record Pace as Demand Exceeds 50,000 Units in First 6 Months
GLENDALE, Calif., July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- FutureLogic, Inc., the world's leading developer of innovative ticket printing and couponing solutions, announces today that leading gaming operators in North America have specified its GEN3 Evolution® printers in more than 50,000 electronic gaming machines since production began in late 2012. The demand for the GEN3 Evolution® printer in its first 6 months is over 400% greater than the pace set by the GEN2 Universal(TM) printer in 2006.
"Responding to our customers' needs has enabled FutureLogic to ship more than 1.5 million TITO printers worldwide since 2000, which is more than all other competing manufacturers combined," said Nick Micalizzi, VP of Sales and Marketing, North America. "We look ahead to continued success with the GEN3 Evolution printer as operators seek to take advantage of FutureLogic's industry-leading technology. In order to benefit from the GEN3 Evolution's superior printing, promotional couponing capabilities, and advanced feature set, operators should request the GEN3 Evolution printer for all existing and new gaming machine purchases," recommended Micalizzi.
Generations ahead of printers from competing manufacturers, operators and EGMs looking for the most innovative, fastest, and most reliable TITO/coupon printer with outstanding support and service, are specifying FutureLogic's GEN3 Evolution® printer. The GEN3 Evolution® printer is equipped with the industry's largest standard paper capacity of 450 tickets, saving operators up to 30 refills or $300 per printer annually. Further reducing costs, FutureLogic printers eliminate paper waste by taking the ticket stack down to the last ticket. Operators can easily update firmware in a flash, by simply connecting a pre-loaded thumb drive to a printer while it's still in the slot machine, yielding a significantly reduced down time for each and every slot machine on the casino floor. Moreover, at eight inches per second, the GEN3 Evolution® printer is also the fastest printer in gaming, printing and presenting a ticket/coupon in less than one second. Designed with promotional couponing in mind, the GEN3 Evolution® printer offers an optional on-board promotional system module that creates separate and secure processing environments for both TITO and promotional couponing. This optional module also makes precision grayscale printing a possibility through an advance temperature control technology, yielding the highest resolution output for printing eye-catching promotional coupons.
About FutureLogic, Inc.
Founded in 1983, FutureLogic is the leading developer of innovative ticket printing and couponing solutions to gaming technology providers and operators around the world. As the premier supplier of super-robust thermal ticket printers to the global gaming industry, FutureLogic has shipped more than 1.5 million printers for casino gaming, video lottery, AWP, LPM, SWP and kiosk applications worldwide. Headquartered in Glendale, CA and with offices across North and South America, Europe, Asia and Australia, FutureLogic's sales and engineering teams are ready to provide direct support and local knowledge for manufacturers and operators around the world. For more information or to contact us, please visit futurelogic-inc.com.
FutureLogic Contact:
Matt Naraghi
Director of Marketing, North America
619.786.4995
matthew.naraghi@futurelogic-inc.com
HP Authorized Distributor Offers Advanced Ecommerce Website
Order Online Directly from Wholesale Distributor
HOUSTON, July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- MasterWorks International, an HP® authorized distributor and reseller, has launched a complete redesign of its corporate website at http://www.masterworksglobal.com. The new design includes ecommerce functionality, allowing online ordering of replacement parts and refurbished systems 24/7.
"When we launched our new web presence last year, we looked at it as only the first step," said Bob Munn, founder and CEO of MasterWorks International. "This redesign is a major move forward in a full evolution of our online profile. We feel confident that we now offer an ecommerce experience on a level with any other site in our industry."
The new site, which is fully integrated with the company's backend inventory database, includes the ability to order replacement parts and refurbished desktops and laptops for HP and other major brands. The company's lineup of servers and storage devices are also showcased on the website, with easy quote request functionality on server pages. The site is also fully enabled to allow for easy ordering from mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.
"For some time now, our customers have asked when we will give them the ability to check our inventory and submit orders online," said Bruce Cutler, MasterWorks president and chief operating officer. "Rather than rush right in, we wanted to make sure we got the right foundation in place to allow for growth and expansion over time. We look forward to giving our customer base convenient, around-the-clock access to our inventory of parts and systems, including genuine HP replacement parts."
Based in Houston, MasterWorks International is an authorized distributor and reseller of refurbished parts and systems. In business since 1992, MasterWorks holds a range of certifications with HP, including Authorized Remarketing Partner, Authorized Parts Reseller and Authorized Distributor; as well as other major brands. Learn more at http://www.masterworksglobal.com. HP is a registered trademark of Hewlett-Packard Company.
SOURCE MasterWorks International
MasterWorks International
CONTACT: Ryan Boots, 1-713-341-2308, rboots@mwintl.com
New Low-Power Unified Computer Vision and Video Processing Solution from videantis
HANNOVER, Germany, July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --
The videantis processor is 100 times more powerful and consumes 1000 times less energy
than host CPUs on video and vision applications
German video IP and solution provider videantis announced today its new unified vision
and video coding solution for mobile, home and automotive applications. The solution
combines the company's low-power, scalable v-MP4000HDX processor IP core family with an
accelerated OpenCV library, and a suite of Full HD and 4K video encoders and decoders.
This licensable solution enables a slew of new applications for mobile, gaming and TV
platforms: augmented reality, gesture interfacing, depth mapping and computational
photography enable new user experiences and usage models. In automotive applications, the
company's low-delay, high dynamic range video codecs combined with computer vision
techniques enable both camera-based advanced driver assistance systems and surround-view
cameras to prevent collisions.
All of these applications have one thing in common: they require a high-performance,
low-power flexible video processing subsystem such as the v-MP4000HDX to run the
computationally demanding algorithms that can extract meaning from the images the cameras
capture, without draining the battery. This same architecture also supports video
compression and decompression, so that the system can simultaneously decompress, analyze
and compress video data.
"We've been shipping our processor for multi-format HD video coding for some time. Our
customers asked if we could add support for computer vision after they experienced our
power and area efficiency on video coding applications, and so we did," says Hans-Joachim
Stolberg, videantis's CEO. "We optimized the widely used OpenCV library for our
v-MP4000HDX architecture and combined it with our video codecs, so they're able to run
concurrently. In addition, we took great care in optimizing both the hardware and software
for low-power operation, which is of course important for mobile applications, but also a
major factor for embedded applications."
"I commend videantis for responding to the growing desire of system engineers to
create devices incorporating visual intelligence," said Jeff Bier, founder of the Embedded
Vision Alliance. Innovations like the v-MP4000HDX processor family, coupled with an
optimized version of the popular OpenCV library, will help designers realize the potential
of embedded vision by enabling sophisticated vision algorithms to be implemented with
reduced power consumption."
Efficient processor architecture
The v-MP4000HDX architecture scales from a three-core v-MP4120HDX subsystem with a
single stream processor and two media processors to a ten-core v-MP4280HDX subsystem that
includes two stream processors and eight media processors. The v-MP4180HDX subsystem
performs 192 16-bit pixel operations per cycle, 24 on each of its eight two-issue VLIW
media processors. This subsystem is under 2mm[2] of silicon in 28nm technology, including
memories. With four media processors, the v-MP4140HDX subsystem performs 96 16-bit pixel
operations per cycle. This subsystem is under 1mm[2] of silicon in 28nm technology,
including memories. Thanks to its flexible architecture, the subsystem can run video
codecs, imaging, computer vision, and computational photography algorithms all
simultaneously.
OpenCV support
The v-MP4000HDX accelerates OpenCV, the de facto standard for open computer vision
libraries. OpenCV has been downloaded over 3 million times and is widely used in both
academia and industry. Using OpenCV, algorithm development can take place in a standard
PC-based environment. Once algorithm development and testing are completed, the
application can seamlessly be migrated toward an embedded videantis-enabled platform where
the OpenCV function calls are accelerated by the v-MP4000HDX subsystem. This acceleration
results in a speedup of more than 100x compared to running on the host CPU, and power
consumption that's 1000x lower. This way the v-MP4000HDX supports full HD processing,
allowing for more accurate algorithms and an overall higher-quality user experience.
Videocodec support
Besides running computer vision algorithms, the v-MP4000HDX supports the following
codecs running at Full HD or 4K resolution for decode and Full HD for encode:
H.264/AVC, including MVC
Google VP8 / WebM Project, On2 VP6
RealVideo 8/9/10
MPEG-4 SP/ASP
DivX, XviD
H.263, Flash (Sorenson)
WMV-9/VC-1
MPEG-2, MPEG-1
JPEG, MJPEG
Since the subsystem is software programmable, additional coding standards can run on
the same silicon. The v-MP4000HDX can be firmware upgraded to run H.265/HEVC, VP9 or high
dynamic range still image codecs, for example.
Availability
The v-MP4000HDX processor IP core, optimized OpenCV library and suite of video codecs
are now available for licensing. A development and evaluation system is available that
includes a 40nm implementation of the v-MP4280HDX processor at 400MHz, a 1GHz ARM host
CPU, camera input, HDMI output and networking.
About videantis
videantis GmbH, headquartered in Hannover, Germany, is a one-stop video IP and
solution provider delivering flexible multi-standard HW/SW video, imaging and vision
solutions for mobile, consumer, and automotive markets. Based on a unified processor
platform approach that is licensed to chip manufacturers, videantis provides tailored
solutions to meet the specific needs of their customers. With their core competencies of
deep video application expert know-how and strong SoC design and system architecture
expertise, videantis passionately serves a worldwide customer basis with a diverse range
of target applications, such as mobile phones, over-the-top TV, in-car infotainment or
driver assist systems. videantis has been recognized with the Deloitte Technology Fast 50
Germany Award as one of the 50 fastest growing technology companies in Germany. For more
information about videantis, please visit http://www.videantis.com
videantis GmbH
CONTACT: Marco Jacobs, Technical Marketing Director marco.jacobs@videantis.com Phone: +31-6-50455522 videantis GmbH Schneiderberg 32 30167 Hannover Germany http://www.videantis.com
It's Con-vention Season: Have No Fear, Hotels.com is Here!
'SuperBooking' expert Hotels.com provides a guide of must-see conventions for comic book, movie and gaming enthusiasts
DALLAS, July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Thousands of comic book, movie and sci-fi fans are descending upon San Diego this week for Comic-Con International. While it may be too late to attend the world's largest comic book and popular arts style convention, Hotels.com® has come to the rescue of genre buffs with a list of the five most "geektastic" upcoming conventions.
"Each year, millions travel for the sole purpose of attending conventions and trade shows around a wanderlust or hobby that interests them," said Taylor L. Cole, APR, travel expert for Hotels.com. "But nowhere else do you see conference attendees go as all-out as the comic and game convention-goers. At Hotels.com, we are just as passionate about finding you the perfect place and want to help put the cherry on top of a perfect convention experience."
The Official Star Trek Convention
August 8-11, 2013 - Las Vegas
Beam me up, Scotty! Science fiction
nerds will feel right at home at this
mother ship of all Star Trek
celebrations, now welcoming Trekkies
for its 12th consecutive year.
William Shatner, George Takei, and
Nichelle Nichols are only a few of
the over 80 Star Trek legends that
will be making appearances at the
show to sign autographs, participate
in photo ops, speak on panels, and
more.
Where to Stay: The venue, The Rio All-
Suite Hotel & Casino, has super-
large suites with sweeping floor to
ceiling views of the strip that will
make guests feel like they're peering
out the window of a spacecraft.
Gen Con Indy
August 15-18, 2013 - Indianapolis
Hosting "The Best Four Days in Gaming"
since 1968, Gen Con is one of the
longest-running shows of its kind.
Specializing in tabletop games, such
as board, card, role playing and
strategy games, Gen Con is a unique
experience among many other gaming
conventions that focus solely on
digital games. Gen Con attendees
boast some of the best cos-play
costumes around and there is even a
growing Family Fun Pavilion and
Training Grounds section dedicated to
gaming for children as young as four.
As the sixth largest convention hosted
in the city of Atlanta, Dragon*Con
attracts over 50,000 entertainment
aficionados annually with its over
3,500 hours of multigenre programming
around everything "fan-culture"
including, fantasy literature,
cartoons, Asian cinema, video games,
space science, action films, and
more. Attendees can check out panels,
seminars, demonstrations, and
workshops in over 30 specialized
programming tracks specific to their
exact wanderlust. Last, but not
least, Halloween arrives early in
Atlanta when Dragon*Con comes to
town, as the event features the
largest costume contest in the South.
Where to Stay: Located down the block
from the Dragon*Con venue, the Hyatt
Regency Atlanta Downtown is the
perfect place as it just recently
underwent a $65 million renovation in
2011 that included the addition of
new restaurants, technology and
upgraded amenities.
New York Comic Con (NYCC)
October 10-13, 2013 - New York
Despite being one of the newer geek
conferences on the scene, New York
Comic Con has quickly become one of
the largest and most highly
anticipated pop culture events of the
year. Achieving an attendance of
over 116,000 comic, film, and gaming
enthusiasts in only six years, NYCC
is now ranked as the second largest
event in the city, according to
Crain's New York Business. Attendees
will be wishing for the time travel
powers of Doctor Who, just so they
can fit in all of the geektastic
panels, comic writer meet-and-
greets, video game demonstrations,
and celebrity guest surprises that
this show is known and loved for.
Where to Stay: Being that this massive
convention takes place in the most
expensive city in the U.S. according
to the Hotels.com Hotel Price
Index(TM) (HPI(R)), NYCC attendees
will have to anticipate higher-than-
usual prices. However, there are
still nearby properties, like the
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel New York
that can offer a great value.
PAX East
April 11-13, 2014 - Boston
PAX East is the Northeastern spin-off
of the wildly successful (and sold
out) PAX Prime, which takes place in
Seattle at the end of August this
year. Developed by the founders of
the webcomic Penny Arcade, the PAX
conferences are completely dedicated
to all things gaming, from consoles,
to handhelds, to PCs and even
traditional tabletop games. This
completely fan-operated show also
has a heavy live music element that
makes it well worth a trip. Catering
to the niche, "nerdcore" genre, PAX
puts on a one-of-a-kind concert
that blends the heavy beats of rap
with the subcultural geek references
that every PAX-goer will appreciate.
Tickets for PAX East will likely go
on sale in October of this year -
grab them quick, because PAX Prime
sold out in less than six hours!
Where to Stay: PAX participants don't
have to miss a minute of the action
when they choose to stay at The
Westin Boston Waterfront, which is
connected directly to the Boston
Convention & Exhibition Center.
Hotels.com makes it easy for travelers to rack up free* nights, redeemable at a property near the conference of their choice. By signing up for the free Welcome Rewards® program from Hotels.com, convention-goers can earn a credit towards a free night every time they stay.
Tell us which #GeekCon you're looking forward to attending and follow the conversation on Twitter @hotelsdotcom.
* A free night does not include taxes and fees. Only properties marked with Welcome Rewards qualify.
Press contacts:
Ashley Aberbach - Finn Partners for Hotels.com
Phone: (212) 715-1524
E-mail: ashley.aberbach@finnpartners.com
Twitter: @finnpartners
Taylor L. Cole, APR
Hotels.com North America
Phone: (469) 335-8442
Email: taycole@hotels.com
Twitter: @TravelwithTLC
About the HPI®
The HPI tracks the real prices paid per room by hotels.com customers around the world using a weighted average based on the number of rooms sold in each of the markets that hotels.com operates. The index started in 2004, and includes all bookings across the more than 155,000 properties in over 60 countries that make up the sample set of hotels from which prices are taken.
About Hotels.com(®)
Hotels.com is a leading online accommodation booking brand. Through the Expedia, Inc. global network of websites, Hotels.com, LP connects travelers with 205,000 properties around the world, ranging from international chains and all-inclusive resorts to local favorites and bed & breakfasts, together with all the information needed to book the perfect stay. Hotels.com, LP benefits from one of the largest hotel contracting teams in the industry, obtaining the best rates for its customers, and offers frequent sales, special deals and promotions. There are more than 7 million Guest Reviews on the websites from users who have actually stayed in the hotels to ensure customers can make an informed choice when booking. Through Hotels.com, LP's industry-leading loyalty program Welcome Rewards(®), customers can earn a free night for every 10 nights stayed at more than 85,000 hotels. Under its Price Match Guarantee, if a customer can find the same deal for less on a prepaid hotel, Hotels.com, LP will refund the difference. Travelers can book online or by contacting one of the multilingual call centers. Special apps for mobile phones and tablets can also be downloaded at http://www.hotels.com/deals/mobile_app/ enabling customers to book on the go with access to 20,000 last minute deals. Hotels.com publishes an award-winning twice-yearly review of international hotel room price trends called the Hotels.com Hotel Price Index(TM), which is now produced in 31 individual country editions, with North American data available at http://www.hotel-price-index.com. Follow Hotels.com on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Hotels.comUS, on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/hotelsdotcom and on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/hotelsdotcom. Hotels.com, LP is part of Expedia, Inc., the largest online travel company in the world with an extensive portfolio that includes some of the world's best-known brands.
Sharp Continues To Extend Its Leadership In The MFP Industry With The Introduction Of Four New Mid-Volume Workgroup Document Systems
New color MFPs raise the bar for productivity with added features, including Compact PDF scanning, wireless networking, enhanced cloud storage and PANTONE(R) licensing.
MAHWAH, N.J., July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America (SIICA), a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, introduced the new MX-4140N, MX-4141N, MX-5140N and MX-5141N color workgroup document systems offering speeds of 41ppm and 51ppm. These enhanced performance models offer new features, such as true Adobe((R)) PostScript((R) )printing, Compact PDF color scanning and wireless networking. These models will also offer Sharp Cloud Portal Office, a new cloud storage service that enables businesses to collaborate and share documents and resources seamlessly throughout their organization. For color critical environments, the MX-4140N, MX-4141N, MX-5140N and MX-5141N will also offer standard PANTONE((R)) Licensing for businesses that utilize the PANTONE Matching System.
"These new mid-volume workgroup models are designed around today's busy office environments, offering powerful multitasking features, off-premises cloud support, mobile device access and more," said Mike Marusic, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Business Solutions Group, Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America. "Tablet-style menu navigation, combined with a built-in retractable keyboard and Internet browsing ability, enables these MFPs to be both high functioning and an added value. The standard Compact PDF feature on the MX-4141N and MX-5141N models is able to reduce the scanned file size of color documents by as much as 75 percent, resulting in decreased network traffic and more efficient use of disk and cloud storage."
The MX-4140N, MX-4141N, MX-5140N and MX-5141N models support the Sharp OSA((R)) 4.1 development platform, offering powerful document workflow capabilities to help businesses leverage their network infrastructure, as well as off-premises cloud services. All four models include Sharp OSA modules for application communication and external accountingapplications. The standard End-of-Lease feature can overwrite all document and user data, which helps protect business and personal information at time of trade in.
These new models also feature Sharp's 2(nd) generation high-resolution, touch-screen display, offering easy-to-use tablet-style menu navigation and multi-touch pinch & zoom image preview.
The available built-in Web browser (standard on the MX-5141N) provides access to web pages for walk-up access to Internet resources.
Convenience and Productivity Features
Sharp's built-in wireless networking, in conjunction with the free Sharpdesk((R)) Mobile app, offers convenient printing and scanning for guest users, without having to access the company's corporate network. The MFP's "Point-to-Point" mode establishes a direct wireless connection to mobile devices, which is isolated from the wired LAN. The new models also support an Infrastructure mode for wireless communication on a customer's wireless network.
The MX-4140N, MX-4141N, MX-5140N and MX-5141N offer a new 2,000-sheet tandem paper drawer enabling a total on-line paper capacity of up to 6,600 sheets for enhanced productivity. A new long paper feeding tray option can feed banner paper up to 48 long. Expanded media capability supports paper weights up to 110 lb. cover stock (300 gsm), giving businesses added flexibility for producing professional documents.
The MX-4140N, MX-4141N, MX-5140N and MX-5141N also offer a choice of high-performance finishers that provide a professional look and feel. Businesses can choose from a 500-sheet compact inner finisher or a 1000-sheet floor standing finisher to a 4000-sheet saddle stitch finisher, all offering three-position stapling and available three-hole punch.
Availability
The new MX-4140N, MX-4141N, MX-5140N and MX-5141N color workgroup document systems are available immediately for purchase via authorized Sharp dealers and direct sales. Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America is a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, the U.S. sales and marketing subsidiary of Sharp Corporation, Osaka, Japan.
For more information about the complete line of Sharp workgroup document systems, contact Sharp Electronics Corporation, Sharp Plaza, Mahwah, N.J., 07495-1163. For online product information, visit http://www.sharpusa.com/documents.
Become a fan of Sharp Business on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and view us on YouTube.
About Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America
Sharp Imaging and Information Company of America, a division of Sharp Electronics Corporation, markets the advanced, color MX Series multifunction printers (MFP) systems that help companies manage workflow efficiently and increase productivity. Sharp((R)) MFPs feature the Sharp OSA((R) )development platform, which seamlessly integrates network applications to create a personalized MFP that can meet virtually any business need, and Scan(2) technology, which scans two-sided documents in a single pass, to enhance scanning reliability and help preserve document integrity. To keep documents safe from unauthorized users, Sharp is a leader in the MFP industry in security by offering one of the most secure suites of MFP applications.
About Sharp Electronics Corporation
Sharp Electronics Corporation is the U.S. subsidiary of Japan's Sharp Corporation, a worldwide developer of one-of-a-kind home entertainment products, appliances, networked multifunctional office solutions, solar energy solutions, LED lighting and mobile communication and information tools.
Sharp, Sharp OSA, and related trademarks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Sharp Corporation and/or its affiliated companies. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
For more information visit Sharp Electronics Corporation at http://www.sharpusa.com. Follow us on Facebook, or Twitter and watch us on YouTube.
AppDynamics Opens its Application Management Platform with AppDyamics eXchange Ecosystem and AppSphere User Community
"AppSphere" and "AppDynamics eXchange" enables IT operations and developers to share best practices and introduce new innovations for application performance management
SAN FRANCISCO, July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- AppDynamics, Inc., the next-generation application performance management (APM) solution that simplifies the management of complex apps, today announced that it is opening up its application management platform for developers and application support professionals, allowing them to develop and exchange new monitoring, alerting and cloud scaling plugins via AppDynamics eXchange - an ecosystem for developers to build and share custom plugins - as well as AppSphere, an open community for sharing ideas and best practices.
AppSphere is an open community that serves as a one-stop learning destination for the AppDynamics user base as well as any IT professional who wishes to join. It enables application support teams to trade ideas, share best practices, and explore new trends in application performance management, such as issues pertaining to managing complex applications, Java/.NET/PHP performance tips, DevOps, and more.
At the same time, AppDynamics also introduced AppDynamics eXchange (or AppDynamics X for short)--where users of AppDynamics and third-party developers can access, create, and share plugins, integrations, and extensions for AppDynamics Pro. Representative plugins include integrations with popular IT operations tools such as PagerDuty, Splunk, Nagios, and Boundary; it also includes cloud scaling connectors for Amazon, Rackspace, VMWare, Windows Azure, and more. AppDynamics engineers anticipate continuing to add their own solutions to the platform as well as receiving submissions from the AppSphere community. The extensions and plugins themselves will reside in an open-source Github repository.
AppDynamics provides the most flexible and scalable platform for application management data and is uniquely suited for enabling AppDynamics users and third-party developers to extend and build their own applications. AppDynamics X APIs provide the ability to bring in custom metrics and events and leverage all of AppDynamics' data analysis and correlation abilities. AppDynamics X APIs also provide the ability to build custom alerts, custom remediation mechanisms, and custom visualizations. Users can leverage AppDynamics X APIs to track, graph, alert, and correlate metrics from any component of their application infrastructure - such as cloud platforms, databases, caches, queues, and hardware - in an easy and scalable manner.
"The AppDynamics customer base is passionate, as evidenced by our Net Promoter Score of 81 and the worldwide demand for our solution. Therefore, we're happy to further empower both AppDynamics customers as well as application support teams everywhere with our AppSphere community and AppDynamics X platform," said Jyoti Bansal, Founder & CEO of AppDynamics. "We believe that the best ideas and insights are generated through conversation and collaboration, and that's why we've made these communities available to those with a vested stake in the performance of critical applications. We look forward to seeing\ what new innovations arise from their engagement, participation, and dialogue."
About AppDynamics
AppDynamics is the next-generation application performance management solution that simplifies the management of complex, business-critical apps. No one can stand slow applications--not IT Ops and Dev teams, not the CIO, and definitely not end users. With AppDynamics, no one has to tolerate slow performing apps ever again. AppDynamics customers include Netflix, Priceline, TiVo, AMICA Insurance, Hotels.com, StubHub, Staples, Insight Technologies, and Cornell University. For more information, visit http://www.appdynamics.com.
Activision Publishing, Inc. and Rovio Entertainment Unveil Angry Birds(TM) Star Wars® for Gaming Systems
MINNEAPOLIS, July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- May the flock be with you! Activision Publishing, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Activision Blizzard, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATVI), in conjunction with Rovio Entertainment Ltd. and Lucasfilm Ltd., today announced that the mobile gaming sensation, Angry Birds(TM) Star Wars(®), is expected to release on console gaming systems for the first time October 29, 2013. Complete with new levels, features and platform-unique design elements, these new editions will be available for the Xbox 360® games and entertainment system from Microsoft, PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, PlayStation®Vita, Nintendo's Wii(TM) and Wii U(TM) systems and Nintendo 3DS(TM) hand-held system.
"Downloaded more than 100 million times since its release last year, Angry Birds Star Wars( )melds together two of the biggest names in pop-culture entertainment for an out of this galaxy gaming experience," remarked Jami Laes, Executive Vice President of Games at Rovio Entertainment. "Angry Birds and Star Wars(TM) are franchises with millions of fans around the world, and we're excited to partner with Activision to bring the marriage of these beloved properties to gamers everywhere this holiday season."
Iterating on many of the engaging mechanics of Angry Birds(TM) and Angry Birds(TM) Space, Angry Birds Star Wars evolves the core game design and hilarious tone of previous entries in the series with new characters, challenges, and environments that pay homage to the iconic hallmarks of the Star Wars universe. This title adds 20 never-before-seen exclusive levels - in addition to the existing 200 from the original Angry Birds Star Wars mobile game - and, for the first time ever, multiplayer modes. Play alongside family members or friends in two-player co-op mode to achieve a combined high score, or against them (up to four players) in competitive mode. The game also delivers achievements and trophies, leaderboards, high-definition graphics (on HD-compatible systems), as well as unlockable bonus levels, items and content.
Rovio Entertainment Ltd is an industry-changing entertainment media company headquartered in Finland, and the creator of the globally successful Angry Birds franchise. Angry Birds, a casual puzzle game, became an international phenomenon within a few months of its release, and is now the number one paid app of all time. Angry Birds have expanded rapidly in entertainment, publishing, and licensing to become a beloved international brand. Following this success, Rovio published Amazing Alex and is soon launching the brand new Bad Piggies game.www.rovio.com.
About Lucasfilm Ltd.
Lucasfilm Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is a global leader in film, television and digital entertainment production. In addition to its motion-picture and television production, the company's activities include visual effects and audio post-production, cutting-edge digital animation, interactive entertainment software, and the management of the global merchandising activities for its entertainment properties including the legendary STAR WARS and INDIANA JONES franchises. Lucasfilm Ltd. is headquartered in northern California.
About Activision Publishing, Inc.
Headquartered in Santa Monica, California, Activision Publishing, Inc. is a leading worldwide developer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment and leisure products.
Activision maintains operations in the U.S., Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Spain, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, South Korea, China and the region of Taiwan. More information about Activision and its products can be found on the company's website, http://www.activision.com.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements: Information in this press release that involves Activision Publishing's expectations, plans, intentions or strategies regarding the future, including statements about the expected release date are forward-looking statements that are not facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Factors that could cause Activision Publishing's actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements set forth in this release include unanticipated product delays and other factors identified in the risk factors sections of Activision Blizzard's most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon information available to Activision Publishing and Activision Blizzard as of the date of this release, and neither Activision Publishing nor Activision Blizzard assumes any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements believed to be true when made may ultimately prove to be incorrect. These statements are not guarantees of the future performance of Activision Publishing or Activision Blizzard and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond its control and may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.
New Rugged, All-Weather Computer from Small PC Uses Intel's Mobile 3rd Generation Core i-series CPU's
CLEARWATER, Fla., July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Small PC Computers of Clearwater, Florida, a manufacturer of rugged computer solutions, has released its iBrick rugged computer model SC215ML. The iBrick is an all-weather Intel® i-series computer designed and tested for reliable operation in extreme environments. In a compact brick size package of only 8" x 5" x 3", this high performance computer is under 3lbs and operates silently, with no moving parts.
A solid aluminum chassis combined with a passive cooling system makes the iBrick computer well suited to environments that experience high shock and vibration as well as extreme temperatures. The iBrick is specifically designed for the specialized requirements in the transportation, public safety, utility, military and industrial automation industries.
SmallPC's unique heat pipe assembly, combined with a set of waterproof connectors and cables, provides a high performance computer that is sealed to dirt, dust and water. Standard configurations include a 3(rd) Generation Intel® Mobile Core i3 processor, QS77 chipset and Intel's® HD 4000 Graphics engine. Basic I/O includes a RJ45 Ethernet port, 3 USB ports and a HDMI Video port. Extra Ethernet and USB ports are optional.
Robert Vance, Small PC's Engineering Manager said, "Even I was surprised with the cooling performance of our passive heat sink, and I designed it! We made changes and upgrades to the cooling solution looking for a 5% improvement and we ended up with a 10% improvement."
Configuration options include memory to 16GB, solid state flash drives to 512G, RS232/RS422 serial ports, Wireless LAN and Bluetooth. The unit also supports dual video options with a second HDMI or Thunderbolt port. An optional intelligent vehicle power supply is available with support for 6-32V DC input and special features such as intelligent shut down and vehicle ignition on/off support. All configurations include the operating system installed and tested with OS support for various Linux and MS-Windows versions including XP, Windows 7 and Windows 8. Basic configurations of the iBrick start at $1495.00 USD.
SmallPC.com a division of ICI Controls, Inc., was formed in 1993. Small PC designs and manufactures computers with a focus on solutions for specialized, rugged, and industrial applications.
DecisionPoint Systems Releases ContentSentral v2.7
IRVINE, Calif., July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- DecisionPoint(TM) Systems, Inc. (OTCBB: DPSI), a leading provider and integrator of Enterprise Mobility, Wireless Applications and RFID solutions, is releasing v2.7 of its popular ContentSentral software product. ContentSentral is a mobile content delivery application (MCDA) for Android and iOS devices that enables mobile workers in industries such as field service, retail, hospitality and sales to access current corporate information. The user experience (UX) can be readily configured to reflect a business' brand and connect to corporate data sources to deliver videos, images, documents, spreadsheets and forms.
"ContentSentral 2.7 raises the bar in mobile content delivery by expanding the types of content that can be accessed by your mobile workforce while providing valuable usage analytics to help you identify the most valuable content for your workforce," said Greg Henry, Vice President Product Management.
Features included in the new release of ContentSentral include:
-- Analytics powered by Adobe Omniture SiteCatalyst
-- Print and mail options added to the content viewer screen
-- Remembers most recently viewed items to aid in e-mail attachments and
searches
-- Ability to open content including PowerPoint files with other installed,
compatible applications
-- Ability to add a link (URL) as a type of content
-- Ability to create and submit custom web-based forms
-- User experience (UX) enhancements
About DecisionPoint(TM) Systems, Inc.
DecisionPoint Systems, Inc. empowers the mobile workforce to enhance customer satisfaction and accelerate business growth. They accomplish this by making enterprise software applications accessible to the front-line mobile worker anytime, anywhere. DecisionPoint combines its' industry leading software products, application development capabilities, deployment and support services with the latest wireless, and mobile technologies.
Ubitus and China Telecom to Bring Cloud Gaming to China's Upcoming 4G LTE Network
TAIPEI, July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Ubitus Inc., the worldwide technology leader in cloud gaming solutions, today announced it has enabled cloud gaming solution through China Telecom 4G LTE network. Live demonstration of Ubitus cloud gaming application running on iPad LTE version is showcased at China Telecom press conference in announcing its upcoming commercial 4G network services at Nanjing today.
Supported by the reliable high-speed 4G LTE network of China Telecom, Ubitus cloud-based streaming technology will soon bring China Telecom future 4G LTE subscribers a console gaming experience on demand, turning users' connected-devices into powerful game console to enjoy a rich library of game titles, yet, without the worry of download time, device compatibility, or tethered synchronization.
"Ubitus highly recognizes the huge potential of cloud gaming penetration in China as it is one of the biggest and fastest growing gaming markets in the world and has massive users using smart devices to connect to Internet every single day," said Wesley Kuo, CEO of Ubitus. "We are very excited to team up with China Telecom to fully leverage its robust and thunder-speed 4G LTE network to bring the best of breed cloud gaming experience to hundreds of millions of users in China."
About Ubitus Inc.
Ubitus Inc., the technology leader in deploying Cloud-enabled rich media services, offers innovative cloud computing solutions for device manufacturers, wired/wireless communication service providers, telecommunication operators and digital content developers. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, the company now has 200 employees and offices in the United States, Japan, South Korea and mainland China.
High-level Delegation From IEEE Standards Association Visiting India to Take the India Engagement to the Next Level
NEW DELHI, July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --
Delegation to Lead Workshops in Bangalore and Meet Policy Makers/Industry Leaders
Between July 22nd - August 7th to Forge Partnerships That Catalyze Technology Innovation
in the Indian Market
IEEE Standards Association (IEEE-SA), a globally recognized standards-development
organization within IEEE, today announced that a high-level delegation of its senior
executives and industry professionals behind some of its key standards initiatives will be
in India from July 22nd to August 7th. The team will meet with policy makers and industry
leaders during this visit besides leading two workshops in Bangalore. Part of the team is
also spending a full day at Puducherry visiting Power Grid Corporation of India's first of
its kind Smart City project to explore synergies from a standards perspective. Key members
of the visiting delegation are:
- Wael William Diab, senior director at Broadcom & vice-chair, IEEE
802.3(TM) Ethernet working group
- Bruce Kraemer, Marvell Semiconductor & chair, IEEE 802.11(TM) working group
(Wi-Fi/WLAN standards)
- Samuel Siacca, CEO, SCS Consulting & chair, IEEE P1686(TM) and IEEE PC
37.240(TM) working groups
- Robert LaBelle, senior director, Strategic Innovation and Standards Solutions,
IEEE-SA
- Karen McCabe, senior director, Collaboration and Consensus Community, IEEE-SA
- Ravi Subramaniam, technical director, IEEE Conformity Assessment Program
(ICAP)
- Bill Ash, strategic program manager, IEEE-SA
- Srikanth Chandrasekaran, senior standards manager, IEEE
According to Karen McCabe, senior director, Collaboration and Consensus Community,
IEEE-SA, "We had a successful outreach with a series of workshops and meetings in 2011 and
another when the IEEE-SA BoG (Board of Governors) visited India in 2012. The 2013 outreach
is among the most extensive and will help foster increased collaboration with our multiple
key stakeholders here and help take the engagement with Indian market to the next level.
The workshops and meetings, through information exchange, community engagement and sharing
of best practices, lead to a deeper, much required understanding of needs specific to the
Indian market. We will have similar initiatives in the future as India remains a key focus
market for IEEE-SA for smart grid, the Internet of Things and other strategic areas."
"We expect this outreach to result in collaborations that will lead to new, globally
relevant standards in the smart grid arena besides long-term partnerships that will aid
the development of an effective smart grid eco-system in India," added Bill Ash, strategic
program manager, IEEE-SA.
The first IEEE-SA standards workshop focused on Last Mile Connectivity will take place
on July 31stat the Electronic City C-DAC facility in Bangalore. The second in partnership
with SEMI on August 3rd, as part of SOLARCON India 2013 is at KTPO complex in Bangalore
and will focus on standards for renewable energy and micro-grids.
About the IEEE Standards Association:
The IEEE Standards Association (IEEE-SA), a globally recognized standards-setting body
within IEEE, develops consensus standards through an open process that engages industry
and brings together a broad stakeholder community. IEEE standards set specifications and
best practices based on current scientific and technological knowledge. The IEEE-SA has a
portfolio of over 900 active standards and more than 500 standards under development. For
more information visit: http://standards.ieee.org. To learn more about IEEE-SA, visit
us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/ieeesa, follow us on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/ieeesa or connect with us on LinkedIn at http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid91118
About IEEE:
IEEE, a large, global technical professional organization is dedicated to advancing
technology for the benefit of humanity. Through its highly cited publications,
conferences, technology standards, and professional and educational activities, IEEE is
the trusted voice on a wide variety of areas ranging from aerospace systems, computers and
telecommunications to biomedical engineering, electric power and consumer electronics.
Learn more at http://www.ieee.org.
Note to Editors: Members of the visiting IEEE-SA delegation will be available to the
media discuss their perspectives relevant to India on smart grid, open standards
development principles and their role/relevance in technology innovation, the Internet of
Things (IoT), Ethernet (IEEE 802.3(TM) and 2013 being Ethernet's 40th anniversary),
Wi-Fi/WLAN (IEEE 802.11(TM) and relevance for broadband in India) and e-Health among other
areas. They would also be happy to elaborate on the role of standards in fostering
technology innovation and ensuring compatibility and inter-connectivity among other
benefits in these key areas. Journalists can attend both or one of the workshops upon
prior intimation. Do get in touch with PRHUB at the coordinates provided below and they'll
do the needful at the earliest.
Primary Media Contact: Emilee Kashyap, emileek@prhub.com, 91-011-41513591
Bureau Veritas Announces Sargam Laboratory Private Limited Name Change
HONG KONG, July 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --
Bureau Veritas' Consumer Product Services division (BVCPS) acquired Sargam Laboratory
Private Limited (SLPL) in Chennai, India in 2011. The Sargam Laboratory has now been
completely integrated with Bureau Veritas Consumer Product Services (I) Pvt. Ltd.
The Sargam Laboratory Private Limited (SLPL) has changed its name to Bureau Veritas
Consumer Product Services (I) Pvt. Ltd. ("BVCPS India") with effect from June, 2013. As a
result of this Acquisition, BVCPS India has further strengthened its network of
laboratories in 5 major locations in India - Noida, Gurgaon, Bangalore, Tirupur and the
latest laboratory facility in Chennai.
The BVCPS' Chennai facility is located near the Thiruvika Industrial Estate where it
is easily accessible from the industrial areas around the city. The Chennai lab supports a
wide range of testing services in the areas of food and agri-products, water, metals,
environment, microbiological, pharmaceuticals including ayurvedic, and natural products.
Advanced services include testing clinical specimen using ICP MS for toxic trace metals
and food / agricultural products for pesticide residues, drug residues and natural toxins
to meet national and international requirements.
BVCPS' Chennai facility is a state of the art analytical laboratory accredited by the
Department of Science and Technology, Government of India under the National Accreditation
Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) under ISO/IEC 17025 in the fields of
chemical and biological testing. In its three decades of existence, the Chennai laboratory
has been providing reliable, timely and cost effective analytical services to meet a
variety of testing needs. Its strict adherence to quality standards, well trained staff
and advanced instrumentation ensure the accuracy and reliability of the tests. The testing
instruments are calibrated by NABL-accredited calibration laboratories.
The Chennai lab has been recognised by MoEF, approved by AYUSH, Government of India,
FSSAI, Drug Control authorities, and AGMARK Certification for Export Products and for
Organic Certification.
Additionally, the lab has obtained approval /recognition from:
- BIS for testing packaged drinking water and containers and feeding
bottles,
- APEDA for testing fruits and vegetables, nuts and nut products,
- EIC for testing marine, dairy, water for food industry, and
- RMP for eggs.
About Bureau Veritas
Bureau Veritas is a global leader in testing, inspection and certification services.
Founded in 1828, the group has 59,000 employees in 1,330 offices and laboratories located
in 140 countries. Bureau Veritas helps its clients to improve their performances by
offering innovative services and solutions in order to ensure that their products,
infrastructure and processes meet standards and regulations in terms of quality, health
and safety, environment protection and social responsibility. Bureau Veritas is listed on
Euronext Paris and belongs to the Next 20 index (Compartment A, code ISIN FR 006174348,
stock symbol: BVI) Website: http://www.bureauveritas.com
Bureau Veritas' Consumer Products Services division is a leading global quality
assurance provider for the global consumer product and retail markets. It offers an array
of specialized services including testing, inspections, audits and engineering services
for a wide range of consumer products. These products include hard goods; toys and
juvenile products; soft goods; premiums; electrical and electronic products including
wireless and mobile devices; automotive equipment; food products as well as health,
beauty, cosmetics, and household products. Website: http://www.bureauveritas.com/cps
For enquiries, please contact:
Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services
Pritam Sarkar
Email: pritam.sarkar@in.bureauveritas.com
Notify Technology and MobileOps Announce WorkSecure Alliance of Mobile Device Management (MDM) and Mobile Application Management (MAM)
In an era where a corporate data breach can mean legal liability, or even worse, corporate financial loss, new joint venture focuses on replacing mobile vulnerability with mobile security.
SAN JOSE, Calif., July 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Notify Technology Corporation announces a joint alliance with MobileOps to provide mobile device management (MDM) and advance mobile application management (MAM) to mobile apps in the BYOD era.
"The world has moved beyond MDM. Threats to intellectual property and data loss prevention have eclipsed issues regarding mobile hardware. Every business application is a new theatre in the war against corporate espionage," said David K. Hanabusa, CEO of Notify.
"Security now begins with enterprise mobile apps. Our joint solution enables a holistic approach to securing mobile apps throughout the entire application lifecycle. Before an app is even released, our solution helps organizations simplify app testing to ensure that they meet security requirements. At run-time, it provides fine grain policies to control access and secure application data at rest and in motion. A unique capability that we have is application analytics, which provides insights on application usage and potential risks," said Rajiv Taori, CEO of MobileOps.
Notify and MobileOps have partnered to provide a secure MDM/MAM solution for businesses that author, license, deploy and manage enterprise applications for mobile devices on Apple iOS and Google Android. Part of Notify's WorkSecure(TM) program for business, Notify and MobileOps provide a comprehensive mobility solution for enterprise IT and development.
Notify Technology Corporation is an independent software vendor (ISV) who has specialized in wireless mobility solutions and services for over a decade. Notify's products including NotifyLink, NotifySync, and NotifyMDM support all major smart phone and tablet platforms independent of wireless carrier or network. Notify sells its mobility products directly and through authorized resellers internationally. Notify is an official Apple iPhone Enterprise Development Partner, Android Development Partner, BlackBerry Development Partner, Samsung Enterprise Application Developer Partner, and Windows Phone Development Partner. The Company is headquartered in San Jose, California with product development and technical support located in Canfield, Ohio.
About MobileOps
MobileOps is pioneering an innovative approach to mobile application management (MAM), which offers application security, monitoring and analytics, without requiring IT managers to force their developers to instrument their applications with specific management SDKs. Enterprises have a single dashboard to monitor performance, analyze usage, and control access & security of their application data. MobileOps empowers enterprises to provision, secure, monitor and control mobile applications and content on all device types. Learn more at http://www.mobileops.com.
Monarch Celebrates 20th Anniversary with Opening of New Store at the AIRMALL® at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)
-- Specialty Boutique Brings Well-Known Luxury Brands to Travelers --
CLEVELAND, July 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- AIRMALL® USA,the leading airport concessions developer in North America and operator of the AIRMALL® at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), is bringing travelers an assortment of jewelry, accessories, fashion scarves, sunglasses and travel gear with the opening of Monarch (796 sq. ft.). Now open in Concourse D, this chic boutique offers a wide selection of well known brands, including Tumi luggage, briefcases and wallets; Dooney & Bourke handbags and wallets; Tiffany & Co. sunglasses; Giorgio Armani sunglasses; Invicta watches; Prada sunglasses and accessories; and Vera Bradley totes and accessories.
"As Monarch marks 20 years of offering customers a great mix of designer brands, we're pleased that they've selected the AIRMALL at CLE for their newest location," said Tina LaForte, vice president of AIRMALL Cleveland. "Travelers are sure to appreciate seeing brands they know and love while shopping at Monarch for gifts, accessories, luggage, jewelry and more."
"Monarch is bringing some of the finest designer brands to travelers at CLE," said Airport Director Ricky Smith. "We welcome them not only to our airport, but to the City of Cleveland and are confident that this unique and stylish boutique will resonate well with travelers."
Based out of Buffalo, NY, Monarch also operates stores at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport and in Williamsville, NY.
About AIRMALL® USA
AIRMALL® USA is the developer and manager of the retail, food and beverage operations at Pittsburgh International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport (Terminals B and E), Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. The leading airport concessions model in North America, AIRMALL USA continues to boast the highest per-passenger spend on the continent and consistently receives accolades for innovation and customer service. For more information on AIRMALL USA, visit http://www.airmall.com.
Contact:
Jeff Donaldson For AIRMALL USA
412-642-7700
jeff.donaldson@elias-savion.com
- Two additional models based on the popular virtual 3D world make their debut at Comic-Con International and will be on shelves this September -
SAN DIEGO, July 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- COMIC-CON INTERNATIONAL -- Delighting LEGO® and Minecraft fans across the globe, The LEGO Group today announced it is extending its relationship with Swedish game developer Mojang to build on the blockbuster success of its first LEGO Minecraft building set to add two new models that will be released September 1, 2013.
LEGO Minecraft provides the opportunity to build, reconfigure and create new Minecraft micro-worlds in a physical LEGO way. The two new 3"x3"x3" models, The Village and The Nether, are on display for the first time at Comic-Con International in San Diego. Fans can also enjoy and take pictures with a large interactive 3D mosaic complete with Micromob character props at the LEGO booth (#2829).
"LEGO Minecraft is a perfect example of how people's passions can be amplified when digital and physical interests are combined, and there couldn't be more synergy between the engine that drives the Minecraft gaming experience and the creative fuel of a LEGO building experience," said Michelle Wilson, senior brand manager for LEGO Systems, Inc. "We are thrilled to continue our collaboration with Mojang to create new Minecraft characters and environments in LEGO form so that fans can get as creative as they'd like in their physical world as in their digital one."
"Given our similarities, Minecraft and LEGO building have always been a great match. After the excitement over the first set, we were delighted to extend the line and continue our partnership with The LEGO Group," said Lydia Winters, Mojang's director of fun. "We can't wait to see what the two communities create now that there are multiple LEGO Minecraft worlds to build and explore."
LEGO Minecraft New Product Highlights
The Village
With this model, fans can create and customize their own Minecraft village with LEGO bricks. Just like the game, fans can build houses, grow crops and explore the mines in their own micro-world as well as play out their own storylines with Pig, Villager and Zombie constructible Micromob figures.
The Nether
Builders can create the Minecraft Obsidian Portal and The Nether to explore the newest biome with this micro-scale LEGO model, complete with Netherrack, gravel, flowing lava and bedrock. This model includes two Ghasts and one Zombie Pigman constructible Micromob figures.
The new LEGO Minecraft micro-scale models can be split into four sections and reconfigured for different play experiences. They will be available beginning September 1, 2013 with a suggested retail price of $34.99.
About The LEGO Group
The LEGO Group is a privately held, family-owned company, based in Billund, Denmark. It was founded in 1932 and today the group is one of the world's leading manufacturers of play materials for children. The company is committed to the development of children's creative and imaginative abilities through its products, which can be purchased in more than 130 countries. Visit http://www.LEGO.com
About Mojang
Mojang is an indie game development studio based in Stockholm, Sweden. Founded by Markus "Notch" Persson, Jakob Porser, and Carl Manneh in October of 2010, Mojang has created a worldwide hit with its first title, "Minecraft." Currently with over 28 million copies sold across all platforms. Mojang recently released its second game, "Scrolls." For more information, please visit http://mojang.com/ and http://minecraft.net
Media Contact:
Fiona Chan for The LEGO Group
415-551-9625 or chan@flashpointpr.com
Make Stories Come Alive with the Sparkup® Magical Book Reader
Available for Purchase starting July 20th on QVC's "Christmas in July"
NEW YORK, July 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- A new product has arrived today that promises to reignite both children's and their loved ones' interest in reading. The Sparkup(®) Magical Book Reader is an innovative device that merges the non-digital world of printed books with the benefits of today's technology.
"Sparkup's unique, intuitive technology makes reading with your child easier, more interactive and loads of fun!" says Dr. Michael Levine, Director of Sesame Street's Cooney Center for Children's Media and Research.
The Sparkup( )attaches to any picture book on a child's bookshelf, allowing kids of all ages to read along with the personalized, pre-recorded voice of their dad, aunt, grandma, or any other loved one.
"Digital screens dominate our kids' lives today, but we know families still love to read quality, printed books," says Amir Koren, founder and CEO of Sparkup. "This was the inspiration for the new Sparkup Magical Book Reader--to celebrate the magic of books--real books. We leverage technology to take kids and the whole family back to a fun, interactive and tangible reading experience."
How It Works:
<blockquote>
1) Start by simply attaching the Sparkup to a book and record your voice, reading along as you turn the pages. Or, download pre-recorded audio files from the company website; the device can store up to 50 books.
2) Kids of all ages can re-attach the Sparkup any time they want to read these books at their own pace, and follow along as a familiar voice reads aloud.
3) The "magic" of the device is that it automatically recognizes the selected book and can follow along as quickly as your eager toddler or preschooler can turn pages--even out of order. With its proprietary technology, the Sparkup even knows when a child has skipped pages and will automatically begin reading from the new page.
</blockquote>
"With Sparkup, everyone can stay connected during story time, even when family members and loved ones can't physically be together. We know that grandparents and parents will love this product as a way to relive the moments when families are all together during story times," says Koren.
"Reading-aged children can practice reading to themselves aloud, and kids with special needs can also get extra help and validation," says Koren.
Starting Saturday, July 20(th) the Sparkup Magical Book Reader will be available as part of QVC's annual "Christmas in July" event, at QVC.com or 1.800.345.1515. Beginning September 1(st), the Sparkup will be sold directly at http://www.sparkupreader.com and through other retail outlets across North America.
The introductory price is $49.95 and, exclusive to QVC shoppers, includes two large paperback classics and preloaded audio files from Macmillan Publishers: "Shrek!" by William Steig, read by Emmy Award winner Stanley Tucci and "Tikki Tikki Tembo" by Arlen Mosel, read by Academy Award winner Marcia Gay Harden.
Sparkup Ltd. is a technology and design startup company based in Israel. Sparkup's investors and management team understand first-hand the challenges facing children's reading and play time experiences in a digital era. They are passionate about finding tangible solutions that enhance the lives of children and their families.
The company's inaugural product, the Sparkup Magical Book Reader, enables kids to interact with real printed books as they stay connected with family and friends while learning - whether in the same room or across the globe. Patent protection for the Sparkup's technology and design is currently pending in the United States, Europe and China.
HitFix And NCM Media Networks Bring Entertainment News To The Big Screen With New In-Theater Editorial Relationship
Exclusive "HitFix Big Story" Content To Reach More Than 700 Million Moviegoers Annually
LOS ANGELES and CENTENNIAL, Colo., July 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- HitFix, the top online destination for what's new in entertainment, and NCM Media Networks, a leading integrated media company reaching U.S. consumers in movie theaters, online and through mobile technology, today announced a new strategic relationship that will bring exclusive entertainment news to the big screen in NCM's FirstLook pre-show program, seen by over 700 million moviegoers every year.
The new "HitFix Big Story" segment will feature 30 seconds of exclusive entertainment and pop culture news content in FirstLook each week, further enhancing the pre-show experience for patrons of NCM's theater circuit partners.
In addition to the big screen, "HitFix Big Story" will also run on NCM's FirstLook Sync mobile app. FirstLook Sync is the only app that syncs the cinema experience right to your phone, with enhanced content, special offers, games and more. Designed to sync with the cinema experience during the FirstLook pre-show presentation, FirstLook Sync also provides a courtesy message that reminds moviegoers to turn off their cell-phone prior to the start of the movie trailers.
"We are thrilled to work with NCM to bring our unique style of entertainment news and analysis to the largest cinema network in the country," said HitFix co-founder and CEO Jen Sargent. "NCM and HitFix share a vision of creating high-quality, fun and engaging experiences for consumers, and combining the reach of NCM with HitFix's existing digital and Out Of Home (OOH) distribution network further cements HitFix as 'The Entertainment Authority, Everywhere.'"
"NCM is focused on adding interesting entertainment experiences to our network and media offerings, and HitFix is well positioned to help us further develop innovative content," said Ken Venturi, executive vice president and Chief Creative Officer with NCM Media Networks. "FirstLook is all about bringing the moviegoer closer to what's happening in entertainment, so breaking news from HitFix fits perfectly. We look forward to this collaboration and to working with such an innovative company in the online and mobile entertainment news space."
NCM Media Networks is the top national cinema network reaching moviegoers on-screen, on-site, online and on the go. NCM operates the largest digital in-theater network in North America and is the No. 1 weekend network in the U.S., consistently ranking higher in reach than any other network on Fridays and Saturdays.*
About National CineMedia (NCM)
National CineMedia (NCM) operates NCM Media Networks, a leading integrated media company reaching U.S. consumers in movie theaters, online and through mobile technology. The NCM Cinema Network and NCM Fathom Events present cinema advertising and events across the nation's largest digital in-theater network, comprised of theaters owned by AMC Entertainment Inc., Cinemark Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: CNK), Regal Entertainment Group (NYSE: RGC) and other leading regional theater circuits. NCM's theater advertising network covers 183 Designated Market Areas® (49 of the top 50) and includes approximately 19,300 screens (over 18,400 digital). During 2012, approximately 710 million patrons attended movies shown in theaters in which NCM currently has exclusive, cinema advertising agreements in place. The NCM Fathom Events live digital broadcast network ("DBN") is comprised of over 740 locations in 172 Designated Market Areas® (including all of the top 50). The NCM Interactive Network offers 360-degree integrated marketing opportunities in combination with cinema, encompassing 41 entertainment-related websites, online widgets and mobile applications. National CineMedia, Inc. (NASDAQ: NCMI) owns a 44.9% interest in and is the managing member of National CineMedia LLC. For more information, visit http://www.ncm.com. (NCMI-A)
About HitFix
Co-founded by Jennifer Sargent and Gregory Ellwood, HitFix is the top destination for 18-34 year old consumers to discover what's next in entertainment news and events.
Reaching more than 100 million viewers per month through their video distribution channels, with upwards of 200 million monthly video streams, HitFix has the largest Out Of Home (OOH) distribution network of any entertainment news brand in the United States. HitFix calls on the talents of renowned entertainment journalists such as Alan Sepinwall, Drew McWeeny , Daniel Fienberg , Kris Tapley, Melinda Newman and Liana Maeby to produce wide-ranging news, interviews and commentary on all aspects of entertainment. On a monthly basis, the site reaches over 4 million uniques directly and over 100 million viewers across their multi-platform video distribution. For more information visit http://www.HitFix.com, http://www.facebook.com/hitfix,http://www.twitter.com/hitfix or http://www.youtube.com/hitfix.
*Source: Nielsen Monitor Plus, A18-49, Mon-Sa 8p-11p; Su 7p-11p, 60 min qualifier, Nielsen Cinema Audience Reports Feb 2012, May 2012; July 2012; Nov 2012.
SOURCE HitFix
HitFix
CONTACT: Brendan O'Brien, HitFix, +1-424-272-0448, Brendan@hitfix.com, Amy Jane Finnerty, NCM Media Networks, +1-212-931-8117, amy.finnerty@ncm.com
JumpStart® Launches School of Dragons(TM), a Fire-Breathing Online Adventure Based On DreamWorks Animation's How To Train Your Dragon Franchise
TORRANCE, Calif., July 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, JumpStart® launched its newest educational multiplayer online game, School of Dragons(TM). The game is based on DreamWorks Animation's How To Train Your Dragon franchise, and is one of the first massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPG) to incorporate basic science educational features in its gameplay. More information about the School of Dragons game can be found at http://www.SchoolofDragons.com.
School of Dragons blends together three fields -- film, online games, and television-- to create an immersive online gaming experience for youth, allowing players to interact, play, and learn with familiar faces from the hit animated film, such as Hiccup and his dragon Toothless. As players train their own dragons and become fierce Viking adventurers in the game, they will learn key concepts in the scientific method through activities based on earth, life, and physical sciences.
Also, later this summer, School of Dragons is going places no other online educational MMORPG has gone before -- seamless, simultaneous mobile and online gameplay.
"There is no other game like School of Dragons -- it's epic, fun, and gives fans of the How To Train Your Dragon another way to experience their favorite characters," said David Lord, CEO of JumpStart. "While the film was the foundation for the game, our team took it to the next level and demonstrated the type of creativity and commitment we pride ourselves on here at JumpStart. The dynamic gameplay of School of Dragons, coupled with the strong DreamWorks Animation brand, will position School of Dragons to be every kid's favorite game."
"We are pleased to see the How To Train Your Dragon adventure extended in this beautifully crafted game experience that will engage and educate Dragon fans," said Jim Mainard, Head of Digital Strategy for DreamWorks Animation. "This dragon world is a perfect environment for teaching real world scientific lessons, while delivering all the fun and excitement that How To Train Your Dragon fans expect."
JumpStart officially launched School of Dragons at the 2013 Comic-Con International: San Diego Convention, and will be showcasing the game at their booth with demonstrations and other live stunts and surprises throughout the week. Also, Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment announces the DVD release of the Annie Award(® )winning TV series DreamWorks DRAGONS: RIDERS OF BERK. The two-part DVD will be available everywhere July 23. Loaded with exciting bonus content for the whole family to enjoy, Disc One will contain Episodes 1-11 and Disc Two will feature Episodes 12-20. Fans that purchase the DVD will be able to unlock exclusive content in DreamWorks School of Dragons.
School of Dragons can be played online through a limited free account or by paid, full game subscription. Also, find School of Dragons at Comic-Con 2013 at Booth #5566.
Download assets for School of Dragons here.
For more information and news about School of Dragons:
JumpStart is dedicated to enhancing children's lives through engaging educational games, and has been designing games under its two flagship brands JumpStart® and Math Blaster®. These games immerse children in magical 3D worlds filled with adventure, exploration, and most importantly, learning. JumpStart has become a prominent force in children's educational gaming and is trusted and tested by teachers and parents alike, helping millions of children learn.A subsidiary of Knowledge Holdings, Inc., the company is privately held and based in Torrance, California. For more information, go to http://www.jumpstart.com.
ABOUT DREAMWORKS ANIMATION
DreamWorks Animation creates high-quality entertainment, including CG animated feature films, television specials and series and live entertainment properties, meant for audiences around the world. The Company has a world-class creative talent, a strong and experienced management team and advanced filmmaking technology and techniques. DreamWorks Animation has been named one of the "100 Best Companies to Work For" by FORTUNE® Magazine for five consecutive years. In 2013, DreamWorks Animation ranks #12 on the list. All of DreamWorks Animation's feature films are produced in 3D. The Company has theatrically released a total of 27 animated feature films, including the franchise properties of Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, How To Train Your Dragon, Puss In Boots and The Croods.
ABOUT TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX
Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is the industry leading worldwide marketing, sales and distribution company for all Fox produced, acquired and third party partner film and television programing. Each year TCFHE expands its award-winning global product portfolio with the introduction of new entertainment content through established and emerging formats including DVD, Blu-ray(TM) and DigitalHD(TM). Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment is a subsidiary of 21st Century Fox.
MEDIA CONTACT
Stephanie Song
stephanie.song@jumpstart.com
Flexstar Announces the First Testing Solution for the Next Generation in Storage Devices, the Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) 1.0C PCIe SSD
SAN JOSE, Calif., July 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Flexstar Technology, Inc., the leading provider of test and measurement solutions for storage technology manufacturers, has announced the release of the industry's first NVMe test systems and test suites for PCIe SSD
NVMe is an open source, standardized, low-latency host driver and set that operates over PCIe Gen 2.0 and Gen 3.0 communication protocols. Previous generation protocol stacks were geared specifically toward the architecture of Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) which led to longer transmission times in the issuing and sending of commands to the device. NVMe was specifically designed to optimize the performance of next generation SSDs.
NVMe also enables variable device throughputs of up to 8 Gb/s per lane through the specific PCIe lane architecture.
"With this NVMe testing solution our customers can bring their products to market with an assurance, of quality and reliability": commented Michael Bellon, Flexstar's Vice President of Engineering. "Our NVME solution is available on Flexstar's Environmental, Burn-in and Bench-top systems and is downward compatible to PCIe Gen 2.0."
Flexstar Announces the First Testing Solution for the Next Generation in Storage Devices, the Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) 1.0C PCIe SSD
SAN JOSE, Calif., July 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Flexstar Technology, Inc., the leading provider of test and measurement solutions for storage technology manufacturers, has announced the release of the industry's first NVMe test systems and test suites for PCIe SSD
NVMe is an open source, standardized, low-latency host driver and set that operates over PCIe Gen 2.0 and Gen 3.0 communication protocols. Previous generation protocol stacks were geared specifically toward the architecture of Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) which led to longer transmission times in the issuing and sending of commands to the device. NVMe was specifically designed to optimize the performance of next generation SSDs.
NVMe also enables variable device throughputs of up to 8 Gb/s per lane through the specific PCIe lane architecture.
"With this NVMe testing solution our customers can bring their products to market with an assurance, of quality and reliability": commented Michael Bellon, Flexstar's Vice President of Engineering. "Our NVME solution is available on Flexstar's Environmental, Burn-in and Bench-top systems and is downward compatible to PCIe Gen 2.0."
Atmel maXTouch S Controller Powers Touchscreen For Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini
Atmel's maXTouch mXT336S Delivers Excellent Touch Performance, Extremely Precise Touches and Longer Battery Life in Galaxy S4 Mini
SAN JOSE, Calif., July 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Atmel Corporation (NASDAQ: ATML), a leader in global microcontroller (MCU) and touch technology solutions, today announced Samsung has selected Atmel's maXTouch(®) mXT336S to power the touchscreen for its recently launched Galaxy S4 Mini smartphone.
Powered by a 1.7GHz dual-core processor and running the Android 4.2.2 operating system, the Samsung Galaxy S4 Mini features a 4.3-inch high-definition super AMOLED display and touchscreen powered by Atmel's maXTouch solution. The mXT336S controller delivers the ultimate human touch interface with its feature-rich solution by enabling thinner stylus and thicker glove support, more touch precision and fewer unintended touches, along with lower power consumption for longer battery life, brighter displays and faster response times.
"Atmel continues to deliver world class touch solutions with our maXTouch technology for a variety of mobile applications," said Binay Bajaj, Director of Touch Marketing, Atmel Corporation. "Our popular maXTouch mXT336S controller enables Samsung to achieve superior touch performance, thinner sleeker designs, higher moisture immunity, lower touch latencies and support for stylus and surface gestures. We look forward to an ongoing collaboration with Samsung."
Key features for Samsung's Galaxy S4 Mini smartphone include:
- 4.3-inch HD Super AMOLED
- 4G LTE in addition to 3G and 3G dual-SIM versions
- 8-megapixel rear camera and recording
- 1.9-megapixel front-facing camera
- 1.7GHz dual-core processor
- 1,900 mAh battery
About Atmel
Atmel Corporation (Nasdaq: ATML) is a worldwide leader in the design and manufacture of microcontrollers, capacitive touch solutions, advanced logic, mixed-signal, nonvolatile memory and radio frequency (RF) components. Leveraging one of the industry's broadest intellectual property (IP) technology portfolios, Atmel is able to provide the electronics industry with complete system solutions focused on industrial, consumer, communications, computing and automotive markets.