Smart cards converge access
SCM Microsystems will release to the channel a new set of smart card readers that are small enough to be carried on key rings, in pockets, or in purses, starting this month, reports Channel Insider.
The family of three new models are designed for connection through USB or near field communication, giving clients the choice to deploy them for contact or contactless smart cards, regardless of the card's manufacturer.
Increasingly, many organisations are converging physical access to buildings with logical access to PCs via the use of smart card technology. End-users can utilise their smartcards for entry into secure buildings and to authenticate for log-in onto PCs or into secure sites on the Web via a smart card reader.
Mobile broadband-netbook convergence grows
A move by telcos to bundle netbooks with mobile broadband will shift convergence into top gear, according to an ICT distributor, says ARNnet.
Optus and Telstra have recently joined Vodafone in offering netbooks and wireless broadband plans as a package with a monthly fee and 24-month contract.
The concept has long been used by telcos for mobile phones, and combines the rising popularity of mobile broadband - which has become one third of the new Vodafone Hutchinson Australia operation's revenues - with the phenomenal global growth in netbook sales.
Ericsson opens convergence R&D centre
Ericsson has established a new division headquartered in San Jose focused on IP and broadband solutions with R&D focused on mobile broadband and Internet convergence, according to TransWorldNews.
In addition, Ericsson opened its newest Experience Centre in San Jose. The new IP and broadband division is responsible for solutions that help service providers transform their legacy fixed and mobile networks to converged full service broadband networks.
Ericsson says it is working with Valley companies and universities in the development and delivery of a new era of the mobile Internet for consumers and businesses. The new era will enable an all communicating world in which there is ubiquitous connectivity of people and devices, it says.
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