July 19, 2003


Big CPUs in tiny boxes

X-bit labs reports that Taiwan-based Commell Systems has introduced a mini-ITX sized motherboard for the Pentium-M CPU, providing a large leap in computing power over existing VIA EPIA based solutions. The price is also much higher – the Pentium-M retails for about 8 times as much as a VIA C3 chip.


8:39:23 PM    

The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has followed up on its threats of legal action against people sharing copyrighted music with an avalanche of subpoenas for the identities of at least 871 people it has accused of violating music copyrights. The LA Times reports that the subpoenas compel Internet service providers to reveal the names and addresses of people whose accounts allegedly have been used to make songs available for free copying on Kazza and other file-sharing networks.

Some file sharers have stopped their actions in the face of this attack; others are switching to file sharing networks that claim to conceal their activities.

How long until these new networks get sued for trying to subvert the ability to issue these subpoenas? The RIAA can argue there is no valid reason to be able to hide the file sharers identity.


7:44:03 PM    

Canucks in Kabul

The CBC reported that the first major group of Canadian troops have departed for a six-month tour of duty in Afghanistan. The troops will help protect the interim government of Afghan President Hamid Karzai as part of the 29-nation international security force in Afghanistan.

The Canadian military estimates between five and ten of the 1800 Canadians troops being sent will die in Afghanistan over the course of two deployments in the next 12 months


7:42:07 PM