Microsoft rolls out SQL Server SP3

Microsoft has announced the availability of SQL Server 2000 Service Pack 3 (SP3), which includes serviceability and security fixes and enhancements.

SP3 includes all SQL Server fixes to date but can also be applied to an original installation or to one where SP1 or SP2 have already been applied.

New additions in SP3 include Analysis Services, featuring remote partitions and support for third-party data mining algorithm providers. SP3 also improves the manageability of SQL Server Agent logging, and replication enhancements are included to improve performance and reliability. [eWeek]

Scyld Computing`s Beowulf cluster operating system will be upgraded to a 64-bit version optimised for Advanced Micro Devices` (AMD`s) forthcoming Opteron server processor by the middle of this year, AMD said yesterday.

Beowulf will allow users to build 64-bit clusters of servers running Opteron with an enhanced Linux kernel, said the company. The Opteron is expected to make its debut in one- and two-way servers.

Like the Opteron, the new version of Beowulf will be able to run older 32-bit applications, so users can continue to run their older applications as they develop new 64-bit ones for their Beowulf/Opteron servers, said AMD.

Based on AMD`s Hammer architecture, Opteron is scheduled to be released in April. [InfoWorld]

Motorola Southern Africa has announced the availability of a broad selection of Java downloadable games via the eXactmobile Web site. Games on the site include Asteroids, Pong, Breakout, Centipede, Skull Castle, Champ Racer, Alien Storm, V-Rally, Missile Command, Stuntman and Combat.

The games, which are available to all Java-enabled cellphones, form part of Motorola`s initial launch of advanced Java content into the marketplace. The company is also in discussions with other wireless application service providers regarding availability of further international content locally.

A British man who admitted creating three global computer viruses, including one rated as the world`s third most prolific, has been sentenced to two years in prison.

Simon Vallor, 22, a Web site designer from Llandudno, Wales, had previously pleaded guilty to creating and sending the "Gokar", "Redesi" and "Admirer" e-mail viruses, which seriously affected computers in 46 countries.

British police arrested Vallor in February 2002 following a tip-off from the FBI.

During the trial, he told Southwark Crown Court in London that his motive was to see whether he could pull off the stunt and whether the viruses would get back to him. [Reuters]

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