64-bit Windows delayed

Microsoft has further delayed releasing Windows for 64-bit PCs and servers, which analysts say will slow down the arrival of 64-bit desktop computing and provide a head start for rival operating systems on servers.

PC World says Windows XP 64-bit Edition and Windows Server 2003 for 64-bit Extended Systems now will not be available before the first half of 2005. Microsoft says it is pushing back the two versions of Windows with 64-bit support because it wants to thoroughly test the software with Windows XP Service Pack 2, which is due in August.

NASA is to partner with computer maker Silicon Graphics (SGI) and chipmaker Intel to develop a supercomputer based on Linux for research expected to lead to breakthroughs in space exploration, global-warming research and aerospace engineering, reports ZDNet.

The report quotes SGI as saying NASA plans to integrate 20 512-processor SGI Altix systems using Intel`s Itanium 2 processors. With 10 240 processors, SGI says the Space Exploration Simulator will be among the world`s largest supercomputers based on the Linux operating system, having twice as many processors as the machine from NEC now ranked number one on a list of the 500 fastest supercomputers.

Linux distributor Xandros has launched its new business desktop, which eWeek says is part of the company`s efforts to become a leading Linux desktop vendor for the enterprise.

The report says that unlike many consumer-oriented Linux desktops, Xandros Desktop OS Version 2.5 Business Edition includes enterprise interoperability features such as network authentication to Windows NT-style Primary Domain Controllers and Active Directory servers.

It also supports NT log-on scripts, SAP and Citrix thin clients, and IBM Terminal Emulators.

France has approved a reduction in rates for high-speed Internet access to accelerate the development of high-speed infrastructures and improve coverage in rural areas, reports Reuters.

The report says industry minister Patrick Devedjian took the decision after consultation with the French telecommunications regulator. The number of French Internet users with access to high-speed lines doubled in 2003 and is set to double again in 2004.

Samsung has announced it will add two devices with expanded connectivity to its line of digital audio players with hard drives.

CNet says the Yepp YH-820 and 920 are set to launch in the US in September and will include USB "On-The-Go" ports, which allow users to connect the players to other devices, such as digital cameras. The new connectivity will enable users to transfer files directly to the hard drives in the players without the need of an intermediary PC. The players can also be connected to a PC via a USB 2.0 connection.