Penguin in the desert

The Africa Source African Free and Open Source Software developers` workshop is scheduled to take place from 15 to 19 March in Namibia.

The workshop will feature discussions and hands-on work on different open source issues. These include wireless networking and alternative access methods and streaming media and Internet broadcasting.

Deadlines for applications to attend the event close on 6 February.

StreamCast Networks has released a new version of its peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing software, Morpheus 4.0 beta. SACM reports that the software allows users to search for, and share, any type of computer file over a P2P network.

The software automatically protects against viruses by scanning files using the user`s anti-virus software.

StreamCast says Morpheus can conduct up to 10 file searches simultaneously and contains no spyware.

Bell Labs has developed a network software engine that allows mobile phone users to control who knows where they are and when, reports Associated Press.

Researchers this week will detail how the technology will meet the demands of speed, privacy and personalisation on a live telephone network. Only one US operator, AT&T Wireless, is offering a location-based service so far.

However, with a recent US federal mandate requiring that cell carriers be able to pinpoint the whereabouts of 911 callers, this service should see widespread adoption soon.

Texas Instruments (TI) has introduced its 1GHz digital signal processor (DSP), which it says will improve the performance of wireless communications systems, Internet protocol (IP)-based video and telecommunications networks.

Newsfactor.com reports that DSP provides for real-time processing of cellphone calls, voice over IP transmission and other applications by compressing data to make better use of bandwidth.

The new DSP uses the 90-nanometer process node that the company believes will reduce the prices on these products.