Topic: Computer Hardware
Managing technology is no longer optional; it is a critical piece of any nonprofit's business plan. In this audio lecture recorded at the 2007 Nonprofit Boot Camp, information technology consultant John Kenyon offers guidance on what small and medium-size organizations require to get the most out of their tech investment. Using a work systems framework, Kenyon explores the choices needed to minimize risks and strike the right balance between people, data, and technology.
The internet has become an indispensable part of a nonprofit's life. But harnessing the web and email for outreach and fundraising takes agility and experience. This 2007 Nonprofit Boot Camp panel discussion of experts shares technological and marketing know-how through case studies to help nonprofit marketing executives plan effective web and communications strategies for their organizations.
Thin client computing disappeared in the late 1990s but has resurfaced to great effect. These solid state devices frequently trump traditional full-size desktop solutions in terms of cost, resilience, and ease of deployment. With companies looking to cut costs in desktop appliances, this move couldn't be more timely. John Kish, President and CEO of Wyse Technology, discusses these issues, as well as describing the introduction of thin client computing in rural third world economies and how this increases the reach of the Internet.
Personal fabrication may one day put the power to make anything in the hands of everyone. Neil Gershenfeld entertains and educates in this fascinating tour of projects from MIT's Center for Bits and Atoms. First inspired by students in his "How to Make (Almost) Anything" course, global outreach with the digitization of fabrication has led to unexpected opportunities, not only to build cool objects, but also to empower people world wide through invention.
It takes a whole lot of metal and power to run the Internet, according to Tom Barton, President and CEO of Rackable Systems. Barton's short talk takes us on a fascinating tour of today's high density data centers, where the metal meets Web 2.0. Rackable Systems built some of Google's first servers and stands out as a rare example of a recent hardware IPO. The company now provides X86 servers, storage platforms, and services to some of the best known companies.
How do you make a laptop that sells for less than $100 in order to sell to developing countries? Should businesses be considering the developing world as markets or as areas in need of charity? This lively panel discussion covers numerous technological solutions to the global digital divide from the perspectives of business, education and the international development community. [Software 2005 audio from IT Conversations]
LCD or Plasma? High definition or Rear projection? Should you wait for another year to buy a bigger, brighter, cheaper set or get out your credit card right away? The choices are overwhelming. Host Larry Magid speaks to Jeff Cove, VP of Strategic Alliances at Panasonic, about such visual media advancements and what to look for, then go for. [Larry's World audio from IT Conversations]
Knock-Off Printer Cartridges (Lexmark v. Static Control). Lexmark, the printer manufacturer, attempted to use copyright law and
the Digital Millennium Copyright Act to prevent companies like Static
Control Components from making compatible toner cartridges or
refilling used cartridges. A
district court agreed with Lexmark, which would mean that nearly any
company that made replacement devices, such as oil filters for cars,
could very easily be sued under copyright law. Luckily, the Sixth
Circuit Court of Appeals has rejected those arguments. This case is loaded with implications for virtually all IT professionals. ["The Importance of Law and IT" with Ernest Miller on IT Conversations.]
Alan Ganek, recently appointed Vice President of Autonomic Computing, discusses the factors driving IBM's focus on Autonomic Computing--an initiative to make computing systems more self managing and resilient--as well as his early thoughts on technology directions and approaches to address the issues.
The award-winning Roomba Robotic Floorvac, using iRobot's advanced navigation technology with virtually no human assistance, has developed a dedicated following, inspiring fan web sites, theme parties, and hacks. Come learn what some of the best robotics minds in the world are planning for the future of this important new technology.
