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CONTENT Disclaimer: Where opinion is expressed it is that of the author’s and does not necessarily coincide with the editorial views of the publisher or MORE. All information in this magazine is verified to the best of author’s and publisher’s ability. However, MORE does not accept responsibility for any loss arising from reliance on it.

{December 2009 | volume 2 | Issue 6} tElEcom pta’s initiatives to curb spamminG

Congratulations! You have won Rs. 10,000 in an automated lucky draw.... We tried to find out how cellular operators in Pakistan take care of this human asset. We sent following basic questions to every GSM operator to know their HR strategy, policies and their seriousness towards the topic

tEchnology punJab’s larGest it proJect to chanGe the fate of country

Over the last few years, multiuser computing has emerged - particularly in educational....

Do you neeD a netbook? We've seen laptop alternatives before. So what's diﬀerent about netbooks?....

Jf-17 thunDer, a pillar of strenGth

14 16

Every day passes in the lives of Pakistanis leaving no special meaning but 23rd November,....

GooGle’s next step, GoGGles for imaGes

Google search has become much smarter with the release of its Goggles software....

EvEnt two Days with mobilink On the eve of International Volunteer Day (IVD), the company commemorated....

EnErgy alternate enerGy for mobile phones anD towers

The world is moving ahead to utilize the power of two major elements on the....

china pays the cost at home for the Green enerGy A shiny polysilicon plant is like a shiny bomb. It may look clean and innocent, but you....

worlD split over Global warminG

Just recently, in the UN Climate Summit 2009 on the issue of global warming, analysts....

rEvIEw nokia 5530 xpress music, neeDs improvement

5530 has same earlier music application but the quality of the music has improved.

stanDinG out with the Dell stuDio xps

It can be argued that every laptop available in the market is similar....

corby, a family of style anD fun Touch screen phones should not be a luxury, they shouldn’t be too much pricey anymore;....

32 32

avIatIon the emirate of abu Dhabi – your Gateway to uae

The United Arab Emirates is a modern and dynamic country....

month In Focus

lG’s new smartphone in market ZonG makes the blackbarry afforDable

markEt survEy

41 lEatEst In tEch 42 computEr tIps 44 EntErtaInmEnt 45 gaDgEts 46-50

MORE Magazine published by Mudassar Jehangir Mufti at 2nd Floor, Ali Mansion, 41-A, Lower Mall, Lahore Tel: 042 7321920, 2106737 Email: info@apnatime.com Editor-in-Chief Mudassar Jehangir Mufti | Group Editor Sumaira Mudassar | Editor Halima Qureshi | Content Coordinator Zubair Rehman Advertising Manager Abdul Qayyum (Lahore) | Ahmed Malik (Lahore), Designer Assad Chughtai | Marketing Executive Syed Faisal Ahmed Zain Zahid | International Correspondent Ireland: Alina Amir |US: Ovais Qureshi | Contributor Faraz Usmani, Sana Shah, Zeeshan Alvi, Ikram Sehgol Registration No. PCPB 286 Price: Rs. 150

{covEr story |

Mudassar J. Mufti

}

We tried to find out how cellular operators in Pakistan take care of this human asset. We sent following basic questions to every GSM operator to know their HR strategy, policies and their seriousness towards the topic 6 | more | December 2009

{ covEr story} Corporate all over the world are fac-

It dawned on us later that it was per-

source excellence and motivation. Our

ing tough time. Though there are signs

haps the hardest thing to ask about HR

HR policies offer comprehensive med-

of recovery but still it will take time to

and their existing practices.

ical coverage, education assistance for

gain the same pace. What is happening across the world has the same effect in

further studies in addition to personal

telenor

and professional development opportu-

Pakistan. Head offices in Egypt, Norway,

According to Telenor, It is consistent in

nities via trainings. We also have guide-

UAE and China have clearly issued direc-

the benefits it provides to its human re-

lines on employee safety, first-aid

tions to cut the extra expenditure. For

source through all its tiers of manage-

trainings as well as fire and earthquake

most of the companies, cost cutting

ment. These include, but are not limited

drills to ensure our employees are ade-

measures start with the firing of its em-

to, mobile phone allowances, medical

quately prepared in the face of chal-

ployees who are the ultimate assets a

coverage, health insurance, Leave Fare

lenge. Our unparalleled reward system

company can have. At the same time

Assistance and provident funds. Telenor

and sound HR policies have recently

there are ventures which take it as a last

Pakistan aspires to build a work culture

earned us the “Most Preferred Telecom-

resort, rather, they build their skills fur-

that is open to ideas, people and inno-

munications Company 2008” Award at

ther to fight to end the rough ride even

vation. In order to promote the vision

the Pakistan Society for Human Re-

at the time of recession. Since the end

and values of our HR policies, there are

source Management’s Most Preferred

of boom in Pakistani telecom market,

ongoing team building sessions, Inter-

Graduate Employer Awards 2008.

we have experienced hundreds of lay-

nal Value Creation surveys are carried

To enhance abilities of it employees,

offs during the last one year. In the very

out every year, Telenor Development

Mobilink offers a wide spectrum of

same period we have also seen compa-

Process is held on a periodical basis as

training interventions in partnership

nies nurturing their employees.

well as internal and external trainings

with the best local, international and in-

We tried to find out how cellular opera-

are offered. Telenor Pakistan believes

house trainers and institutions. These technical and soft skill trainings are of-

“

when other companies appreciate their employees by giving them monetary or other benefits, our senior management make use of certificates only. how it can boost up the morale? no one is entitled to a car at cm-pak; this is ridiculous in the current scenario

”

tors in Pakistan take care of this human

fered to all tiers. Several Management Development workshops in collaboration with Professors from institutions such as MIT, Harvard, LBS, INSEAD and LUMS have also been offered in the past that focused on

that even at the time of financial crunch,

enhancing skills of Mobilink’s current

asset. We sent following basic questions

human resource is the single most im-

and future leaders.

to every GSM operator to know their HR

portant competitive advantage that we

To build a highly competent and profes-

strategy, policies and their seriousness

have. There are no layoffs unless there is

sional group of future senior leaders,

a violation of the code of conduct or a

the People Management Toolkit pro-

What benefit you offer to your em

lack of ability to meet competence stan-

gram was introduced this year for the

ployees, both in lower and upper

dards.

towards the topic. n

management?

mid tier. The 3 cluster program has been developed to implement best manage-

mobilink

ment practices by utilizing a variety of

your employees?

Whereas according to Mobilink, The suc-

tools.

At your company, at the time of

cess of Mobilink is, to a large extent, a

The Orascom Telecom Holding’s (OTH)

How do you enhance the abilities of

reducing cost, how important is to

reflection of the talent pool accumu-

Talent Management Program is another

get rid of work force to achieve the

lated by the company. In addition to

development program that employees

goal?

being some of the best minds in the

can be part of.

What policies you have for the fresh

country, they are also the best looked

This two year program, launched in part-

entrant?

after. We attach the highest value to our

nership with London Business School,

How many employees you

employees and have built our company

offers an opportunity to talents from all

terminated in 2008?

on the solid foundation of human re-

OTH subsidiaries to work and gain expoDecember 2009 | more | 7

{covEr story} sure at different subsidiaries, and pro-

might of China Mobile in Pakistan. If you

to the company in that case but in the

vides intensive training programs.

recall the pre-launch advertisements of

current scenario every penny is being

We nurture the youth talent from a very

China Mobile, it was dead sure that this

wasted. The man, currently in-charge of

early stage. Our student development

company would rock the telecom sector

HR, is incapable and lacks required vi-

workshops, initiated in year 2008, pro-

in Pakistan and the very simple and con-

sion to lead the team. His inability is

vide students with guidance and direc-

vincing argument is that it is the largest

very much proven from the fact that the

tion so they are equipped to make career

company of the world; both the coun-

day to day business of HR is being han-

choices best suited for them and to en-

tries, Pakistan and China, have a very

dled and supervised by the CEO himself.

“

warid has the similar problems; the company is running without a cEo for the last two years. all those who were part of a successful first year are no more with the company. we happened to learn from a laid off employee who told that the ship is running without a pilot. people are hired and fired ruthlessly without thinking of their career and families

”

warid & ufone Warid has the similar problems; the company is running without a CEO for the last two years. All those who were part of a successful first year are no more with the company. We happened to learn from a laid off employee who told that the ship is running without a

hance Mobilink’s linkages with the aca-

strong and unique relationship. No mat-

pilot. People are hired and fired ruth-

demia. Student Development workshops

ter how fast we rolled out our network

lessly without thinking of their career

have been conducted in SZABIST, Bahria

but we have always remained short of

and families.

and Quaid-e-Azam University and we in-

required potential. When all the compa-

The concerned people at Ufone assured

tend to extend the reach of this initiative.

nies are protecting and grooming their

us to send their version but they could

Despite of repeated follow-ups we

very precious asset, the HR, we are de-

not do so, may be, they are not sure

could not get the response from CM-

stroying it.

about their HR policies as well.

Pak, Warid and Ufone. We did talked few

At CM-Pak, there are no trainings to any

Just like a car cannot rely on a single

of the current and ex-employees of CM-

of the departments. How can the poten-

component and for a smooth drive, all

Pak to know what standard they main-

tial and creativity of the work increase

the parts have to work together effi-

tain within the company and the facts

without building the capacity of em-

ciently and seamlessly and for this pur-

were really astonishing.

ployees. Those who perform the best in

pose it needs regular attention. It

any department are nominated every

certainly ensures long life and best per-

cm-pak

month but never acknowledged. When

formance. Similarly, human resource

There is hardly any HR policy being fol-

other companies appreciate their em-

needs to be taken care of, on time, to

lowed since CM-Pak started operation in

ployees by giving them monetary or

produce best out of the work force.

Pakistan. It is due to very same practice

other benefits, our senior management

Employee training programs or initia-

that many senior and loyal employees

make use of certificates only. How it can

tives are an integral part of the HR vision

of company had to part with the com-

boost up the morale? No one is entitled

and long-term strategic objectives of an

pany.

to a car at CM-Pak; this is ridiculous in

organization.

A senior ex-employee told MORE that

the current scenario.

Through timely, controlled and intelli-

“current decision makers at CM-Pak are

To compensate this, it gives its employ-

gently developed training programs,

the ones who could not create a good

ees monthly “car allowance” which

employees develop requisite capabilities

name in Paktel and they are actually the

amounts to Rs. 25,000 normally. Most of

and new skills to perform assigned jobs

leftovers. Since the birth of CM-Pak,

the employees are using their personal

consistently and successfully. Ultimately,

these people are deliberately not letting

cars and showing them as hired from

carefully devised and implemented em-

the company to grow.

the Rental Company and they get this

ployee training programs should impact

We needed extra ordinary and intelli-

allowance every month. The very same

organizational competitiveness, long-

gent people for sales, technical and

money can be spent by the CM-Pak to

term performance and overall produc-

other domains who could represent the

buy its own cars, that would be an asset

tivity.

8 | more | December 2009

{

saddads

| tElEcom}

December 2009 | more | 9

{tElEcom |

Zeeshan Alvi

}

fraudulent SMSs and calls from

“Congratulations! You have won Rs. 10,000

other end starts talking obnoxious and you

such fake callers. As the communica-

find this useful channel of communication

tion technologies have emerged expe-

so extremely insecure. This fear of insecurity

ditiously in the past few years, hence the

intends you to demand some reliable sys-

number and ratio of crimes committed

tem which could make your communica-

through use of these technologies have

tions safe and take action against the

also increased.

suspected originators of such unwanted

in an automated lucky draw. To claim your

The tale does not end here; an easy ac-

winning amount, write this code XXXXX in

cess to Information Communication Tech-

reply to this message. You will be contacted

nologies (ICTs) and availability of a variety

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority

by our representative very soon” this is a fac-

of communication channels are resulting

(PTA) is responsible to regulate the telecom

tual example of a commonly received SMS

into an overflow of information. Whether

sector of Pakistan. Since its inception, PTA

by mobile users crafted in diﬀerent forms by

it’s your email account or mobile phone

has been engaged in doing sincere eﬀorts

unknown senders who are smart enough to

handset, most of the time your inbox re-

to uphold its vision of Consumer Protection.

use eﬀective approaches in arousing the nat-

mains out of memory storage, thanks to

Launch of Consumer Awareness Cam-

ural human desire to get rich over the night.

messages including Spam.

paigns including Forums, Press Confer-

communications who add a furious aspect to the telecommunication facilities.

Many of the readers of this article

Adding more to this, at times, you at-

ences, Advertising etc, Establishment of

would, themselves, have received similar

tend a phone call and the person at the

Consumer Protection Department (CPD) at

10 | more | December 2009

{ its Headquarters and promulgation of

(DNCR) by telecom operators within

“Consumer Protection Regulations

ninety (90) working days from the date

2009” are some of PTA’s recent initia-

of gazette notification of these regula-

tives taken in this regard.

scribers to avoid receiving unnecessary

lated “Protection from Spam, Unso-

and unwanted calls from telemarketers.

licited, Fraudulent and Obnoxious

In accordance with Part IV of the

Communication Regulations, 2009”

Telecom Consumers Protection Regu-

which specifically focuses on uproot-

lations, 2009, the telecom operators

ing the menace of unwanted commu-

shall setup a round the clock complaint

nications.

handling mechanism for subscribers

These regulations provide instruc-

within sixty (60) days of the notification

tions for the telecom operators to estab-

of these regulations. This mechanism

lish Standard Operating Procedures

will ensure the convenience of telecom

(SOPs) to control Spamming, Fraudulent,

consumers in order to lodge their com-

Unsolicited, and Obnoxious Communi-

plaints and get them redressed.

Under these regulations the opera-

Furthermore, all telecom operators are asked to launch media cam-

tors shall revise the SOP to control

paigns both in electronic and print

Spamming with the approval of the Au-

media to educate subscribers and

thority after every one hundred and

general public of the available pre-

eighty (180) days to ensure that all up-

ventive and subsequent complaint

to-date and eﬀective technical meas-

mechanism for handling Spamming,

ures are being implemented to control

Unsolicited, Fraudulent, and Obnox-

Spamming.

ious Communications within sixty

They will also establish procedures for blacklisting of subscribers whose

| tElEcom}

tions. This will be helpful for the sub-

Most notably, PTA has just formu-

cations within specified timeframes.

saddads

(60) days of the commencement of these Regulations.

subscription has been terminated on

The operators shall ensure that the

the basis of fraudulent activities within

preventing measures and procedures

sixty (60) days from gazette notification

available under these Regulations are

of these regulations. In case a sub-

available to the subscribers and pub-

scriber gets to indulge in such activities

lished in the Consumers Manual as

more than one time, it is mentioned in

specified under the Telecom Con-

the Regulations that he/she will not be

sumers Protection Regulations, 2009

eligible for any other cellular mobile

within ninety (90) days of the notifica-

service subscription.

tion of these Regulations.

The operators will provide an up-

Eﬀectiveness of “Protection from

dated list of blacklisted subscribers to

Spam, Unsolicited, Fraudulent and Ob-

the Authority on monthly basis and

noxious Communication Regulations,

the same shall be posted on the web-

2009” is foresighted on all the levels as

site of the concerned operator. This

it will facilitate the telecom consumer

will enable an easy identification of

in the form of protecting his rights, at

the subscribers involved in Fraud

the same time, the operators and the

through telecom services.

Regulator will also get benefited by

Another remarkable decision taken

winning confidence of the telecom

by PTA through these regulations is the

subscribers on assuring quality of serv-

establishment of “Do Not Call Register”

ices to them.

December 2009 | more | 11

{tEchnology |

Sumaira Mudassar

}

Over the last few years, multiuser com-

puting has emerged - particularly in educational institutions - as a way to reduce computer costs and increase worldwide access to technology. Multiuser computing taps into a computer's excess capability to enable a single host computer to support multiple users simultaneously. If we take the local scenario into account, ever increasing energy cost and its shortage is another hindrance in the way of technology implementation. To cope with this, technology solution providers are working hard to minimize the hardware and software cost and the energy consumption as well. The phenomenon is called “virtualization”. While VMware and Citrix get most of the

In the picture (L-R) Former Finance Minister Sartaj Aziz and Mian Shahbaz Sharif, Chief Minister of Punjab at the opening ceremony of “Punjab IT Lab Project” Chief Minister, Mian Shahbaz Sharif. The ex-

progress and development of the country

ecution was called “Punjab IT Lab Project”.

with adequate IT education”.

attention when it comes to desktop virtual-

To overcome the Digital Divide be-

In Punjab IT lab project, every school is

ization, it turns out that probably the

tween the public and private sector schools

equipped with 3 desktop PCs and 12 virtual

biggest industry leader in terms of actual

, Chief Minister (CM) Punjab Mian Shahbaz

desktops with licensed software from Mi-

deployment just might be NComputing.

Sharif initiated Punjab IT lab project in Gov-

crosoft, high speed internet connection

India is the second largest market for

ernment schools. This project was com-

and hardware solutions from local compa-

NComputing after US. Currently, in India,

pleted in a record time of 110 days and over

nies like Inbox, Siemens, PEL, NComputing,

company has already deployed 2, 00,000

4286 schools were covered in this project.

PTCL, New Horizon etc.

seats and it expects to double that figure

On the inauguration ceremony, Mian

Experts say that introduction of com-

in 2010. December 3rd was the day when

Shahbaz Sharif said “this initiative will revo-

puter labs in the government schools will

this idea was implemented in the province

lutionize the education sector and the new

have a contagious impact. It will force the

of Punjab by the visionary administration of

generation will play an important role in the

low end private schools to establish at least

12 | more | December 2009

{tEchnology} similar if not superior computer labs. The Punjab government may even make it mandatory in the next few years for the registered private schools to have computer labs. The introduction of computer knowledge among the children will increase the inter-

An X-series kit includes vSpace virtualization software, access devices, and a PCI card. Install the card into a standard PC, connect the access devices with standard cables, install the software, and you are all set

net use in the country and expose the unexplored talent of

puting environment, especially in

millions who have remained deprived

emerging economies like Pakistan. The

of this modern technology.

decision to deploy this IT labs project es-

The idea was conceived last year by the planners of the Punjab government, and the budgetary allocations were made in the

provincial

budget

for

2009-10.

CM Punjab, Mian Shahbaz Sharif operating the N-Computing model at the launch

The original idea was to procure 15 desktop PCs for

tablishes the Punjab government as an

each school. However, the govern-

innovator in educational computing in

ment was able to save Rs1.8 billion

Pakistan and a model for other govern-

from its budgeted allocation by adopt-

ments, considering similar projects.

ing the NComputing technology.

The cost will be saved on energy

The NComputing solution in-

consumption that 64290 desktop PCs

cludes both the virtualization software

will have consumed. One desktop PC

(vSpace) that creates the “virtual” ses-

consumes 100 watts of electricity per

sions inside a PC or server, and the

hour when idle. A virtual desktop in-

thin-client devices that connect the

stalled through NComputing device

user’s monitor, keyboard and mouse

will consume only 1watts of electric-

to the shared computer. Thus one

ity per hour that will translate into

desktop PC can be connected with 4-

saving of Rs10 million per month at

10 virtual desktops. Thus instead of

current electricity rates or Rs 360 mil-

buying 64290 desktop PCs, the gov-

lion in three years.

ernment procured 12858 PCs and sup-

NComputing’s desktop virtualisa-

plemented the balance 51432 seats

tion technology has now become a

with NComputing devices.

part of the lives of millions people

IT Labs project can change the com-

across the world. n December 2009 | more | 13

{tEchnology |

Michael Healey

We've seen laptop alternatives before.

So what's diﬀerent about netbooks? Simple: They're really inexpensive and provide better functionality than any smartphone. Market numbers tell the tale: Netbook

}

enhanced flexibility of the smaller size, and

or tools for a new breed of computing in the

benefits such as longer battery life.

cloud or for accessing virtual desktops.

There are significant functionality diﬀerences between netbooks and notebooks. Bottom line: If you try to make a netbook do

can netbooks replace mobile phones?

shipments surged to $3 billion in the second

everything a laptop can do, you'll end up

quarter from $845 million in the same quar-

with users who are 10% to 15% more an-

ter a year ago--264% year-over-year growth,

noyed.

support, oﬀer low-cost connectivity, and

Do you know your employees' computing habits?

tions, the answer in most cases is still

can support most mobile softphone op-

according to market research firm DisplaySearch. At the same time, the average price of a netbook was $378, versus $787 for a laptop. The devices will account for 22% of all laptop, notebook, and netbook shipments

Even though netbooks have Bluetooth

no. Because of limitations of the Windows OS and Intel processor design, a softphone application running on Windows has

this year, compared with 5.6% last year. Re-

A clear understanding of exactly what

the inherent challenge of maintaining

search firm VDC predicts total netbook sales

users do with their laptops and smart-

sound quality regardless of bandwidth con-

surpassing $33 billion next year.

phones is critical if you're looking to replace

nectivity. Bog down your Windows apps,

these systems with netbooks. Quite simply,

voice quality suﬀers.

Just what is a netbook? Netbooks have the size and form factors of ultra-portable machines, which have

laptops often have too much functionality

And netbooks don't have wake-on-call

for most end users, especially with Vista or

functionality, so most users will still need a

Windows 7 multimedia options enabled.

phone and computing device. However,

been around for years. But those machines

Netbooks' complete dearth of multime-

some companies can save money by mov-

usually come with CD/DVD players, and net-

dia processing power may actually endear

ing e-mail and data access to netbooks and

books don't. Also unlike ultra-portables, net-

them to IT managers sick of end users run-

removing those from mobile phone plans

books run on processors specifically

ning iTunes and other recreational apps on

and even using lower-cost phones.

designed for them, like the Intel Atom, and

their work PCs. Call us heartless, but if a net-

you can get one for less than $400, whereas

book can let users stream video, work on Of-

ultra-portables are priced comparable to

fice documents, and get on the Web, who

standard laptops. Nevertheless, netbooks'

cares if it can't serve as a backup for their Nir-

smaller screens and keyboards will defi-

vana bootlegs?

nitely alter the end-user experience.

IT must figure out whether netbooks are

are netbooks green enough for you? If your green policy is just about lowering energy consumption, netbooks' sleeker

These limitations need to be weighed

best suited to replace certain systems or are

CPU design and smaller footprint mean

against the actual functionality required, the

better oﬀ as flexible complementary devices

you'll use 10% to 15% less power compared

14 | more | December 2009

{tEchnology} with laptops. Next-generation systems

AMD was caught oďŹ&#x20AC; guard by the

from AMD, Intel, and their ARM-based

rise of the netbook. Now the company

rivals look like they'll cut that further.

is positioning its Sempron chip for net-

But if your green policy is aimed at se-

books, but that may be too little too late,

lecting products that support low-impact

as ARM has expanded into the netbook

or sustainable manufacturing, you'll

space.

struggle to get timely information. Very

ARM is the processor technology

few netbooks have been certified by

behind the iPhone, Kindle, HP iPAQ, and

EPEAT, which looks at the product mate-

the vast majority of cell phones ship-

rials and manufacturing process and rates

ping today. The company is licensing its

them based on conformance with IEEE

architecture to any interested manufac-

1680 environmental impact standards.

turer, potentially becoming the technology with the fastest adoption rate and

how open are you to microsoft alternatives?

biggest ecosystem of support, software,

Novell and other members of the

sider ARM-based netbooks for business,

Linux community have worked very

but the company's providing a compet-

interoperability, and ultimate flexibility for business use. It's too soon to con-

hard with Intel to ensure compatible

itive threat, keeping the pressure on

Linux drivers were available before net-

Intel and AMD to oďŹ&#x20AC;er alternatives at

books went into production. The result:

the right price.

Solid Linux options for every manufacturer, with some oďŹ&#x20AC;ering pre-loads of Novell SUSE or Ubuntu Remix for netbooks. In addition, Intel has released its

are netbooks just a fluke?

own Moblin (Mobile Linux) for the net-

Don't bet on it. Netbooks have a

book. And the ever-hyped Google

great price point, sales growth, and vi-

Chrome OS, for which open source code

able alternatives for the CPU and core

is now available, is aimed at netbooks.

OS. All of that ensures there will be con-

Google envisions it as a Web-centric

tinued development and price pressure

complement to another PC.

around them. For the enterprise, it's not

These Windows alternatives will

an either/or decision, but rather part of

make sure Redmond keeps a low price

a computing continuum. Current lap-

point in the netbook market. Windows

top users who are barely mobile may be

XP is filling that role now, but Windows

better served with a simple netbook

7 is the heir apparent.

and low-cost desktop. Organizations

Microsoft is positioning Windows 7

may opt to remove mobile phone data

Starter as the netbook edition of choice.

plans for users who mostly work at

But it has the same limitations as XP

home and give them netbooks instead.

Home--no network connectivity and no

We see no signs that netbooks' pop-

group policy enforcement. You need a

ularity will wane. So it's time to incorpo-

customized Windows 7 image for the

rate them into your overall computing

netbook, trimming down the applica-

strategy, before they sneak in the back

tions and overhead.

door--and onto expense reports and the help desk's radar.

are you open to intel alternatives?

The article is written by Michael Healey who works at InformationWeek December 2009 | more | 15

{tEchnology |

Ikram Sehgal

}

Every day passes in the lives of Pakistanis

leaving no special meaning but 23rd November, 2009 was not just another day. On this day Pakistan rolled out its first locally manufactured aircraft, JF-17 Thunder and become a part of International community of advanced fighter aircraft manufacturers. The oﬃcial rollout ceremony was held at the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex Kamra to mark the occasion. Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gillani was the Chief Guest on the oc-

Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani in a group photograph during a ceremony to mark the roll-out of the first JF-17 Thunder Aircraft at Pakistani Aeronautical Complex that has been manufactured locally with Chinese cooperation.APP

casion. The ceremony was also attended by Chief of Army Staﬀ General Ashfaq Parvez

aircraft to meet future requirements. M/s

for studies. A paucity of funds forced all other

Kayani, Chief of the Air Staﬀ, Air Chief Mar-

Northrop Grumman was approached for the

PAF requirements to be frozen by late Air

shal Rao Qamar Suleman, Chairman Senate,

initial design. Because of the heavy invest-

Chief Marshal Mushaf Ali Mir in 2001. Within

Federal ministers and senior military and

ment required and other factors, the project

a period of just 30 months, the first JF-17 pro-

civilian oﬃcers. Chinese Ambassador, Mr.

(Saber II) was continued under Chinese Assis-

totype flew in September 2003 in China. The

Luo Zhaohui besides other dignitaries from

tance but was not pursued vigorously. In 1990

JF-17 made its triumphant debut in Pakistan

China and personnel of PAC Kamra also at-

when sanctions were imposed under the

on March 23, 2007 when two aircraft took

tended the ceremony.

Pressler Amendment, this project died. Pak-

part in the Pakistan Day Fly-past.

Acknowledged as one of the most pro-

istan had suﬀered such sanctions earlier too

With the start of serial production of the

fessional forces in the world, the Pakistan Air

in 1965. Such embargoes proved to be the

aircraft at PAF Kamra, June 30, 2009 became

Force’s (PAF’s) proven excellence will be mul-

proverbial blessing in disguise. Lacking the ex-

a Red Letter day in the annals of PAF’s chron-

tiplied with the induction of the JF-17. Having

perience, know-how and the industrial infra-

icles. A lightweight and low-cost multi-role

suﬀered grievously because of the sanctions

structure for the task, the PAF turned to China.

fighter aircraft with high maneuverability and

in 1965 and in 1990, the PAF vowed ‘never

Always a reliable friend, China acquiesced to

Beyond Visual Range (BVR) capability, the JF-

again’ and took a quantum leap in deciding

co-development of the Super 7 (later desig-

17 has Mach 1.6 capability with advanced

to design and develop its own fighter aircraft.

nated as the JF-17 project) in Chengdu.

aerodynamics configuration and high thrust.

This is a story of excellence, of determination

To have credible human resources that

It can operate over long distances and is well

in the face of odds, of dogged tenacity and of

could undertake the task of designing and

suited to undertaking a broad spectrum of

friendship and solidarity. In the 80s the PAF

developing a fighter aircraft, PAF dispatched

oﬀensive and defensive missions. Fulfilling a

envisaged designing, building its own fighter

its aircrew, engineers and technicians abroad

multi-role task, this aircraft is meant to even-

16 | more | December 2009

{tEchnology}

tually replace the ageing fleet of A-5s, F-7s

help retain the balance of power in South

PAF to achieve its long cherished dream of in-

and the Mirages in the PAF inventory, and

Asia. A report published in The Times of India

digenously manufacturing a fighter aircraft

thus become the PAF’s mainstay.

(May 18, 2008), highlights India’s threat per-

of its own. The leadership of the Chinese gov-

The success story of the indigenous JF-

ception “with Pakistan getting new F-16s

ernment deserves our gratitude for their vi-

17 development stands out in sharp contrast

from the US and JF-17 Thunder jets from

sion and willingness to back friends and

to many aviation failures — the American F-

China. IAF plans to counter ‘the threat’ by

provide wholehearted technical and financial

111, the Israeli Lavi and the Indian Tejas

progressively deploying its most potent

support. With an uninterrupted trust bond

being some examples of abject failures. The

Sukhoi-30MKI fighters on the western front”.

that has survived numerous geo-strategic

PAF is the only air force in the world to suc-

India feels ‘threatened’ every time Pakistan

challenges and changes, Pakistan-China re-

cessfully take on the challenge of designing

acquires military hardware for its legitimate

lations are unique in this world. Good rela-

and developing a fighter aircraft.

tions with China are the real cornerstone of

Though large in number, the bulk of In-

Pakistan’s foreign policy. The Aviation Indus-

dian Air Force (IAF) planes are old and out-

tries of China, especially M/s CATIC, made an

dated. The IAF fleet of MiG series fighters

immense contribution to the project.

needs refurbishing and replacement. There

After 2010 the aircraft will be available

have been recurring delays in the Request

for re-export through China. This will expe-

for Proposals (RFPs) for a multi-role combat

dite and enhance the production capacity

aircraft in the form of the Light Combat Air-

of the PAF because of economies of scale.

craft (LCA) Tejas, in design and under perpet-

Many friendly countries are showing inter-

ual development for almost 30 years.

est in the aircraft, among them Azerbaijan,

Among engineers, journalists and scientists in the aviation industry, the Tejas is some-

Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani in the cockpit of JF17 Thunder and is being briefed by the Chief of Air Staﬀ, Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman. APP

Zimbabwe, Bangladesh, Egypt, Iran, Lebanon, Malaysia, Morocco and Sri Lanka.

times called the ‘Last Chance Aircraft’ be-

defence needs, conveniently forgetting that

This JF-17 project frees the Pakistani air

cause of the false starts and failure. Using GE

its own massive build up and modernizing

defence sector from foreign shackles and

F404-IN20 engines because the indigenous

of its armed forces still gives it a whopping

adds a prestigious chapter to the PAF’s story

‘Kaveri’ engine developed at a whopping

4:1 superiority in numbers.

of continuing excellence. The entire nation is

cost of Rs 20 billion was not only overweight,

The unflinching support and willingness

rightly proud of the PAF. They have always

it lacked the thrust required; the LCA is now

of China to go an extra mile for Pakistan will

come through when the nation needs them

remain a source of great strength for the peo-

the most. n

scheduled to enter service in 2011. The JF-17 will restore to an extent the strategic

imbalance

ple of Pakistan. China has always stood by

The writer is a defence and political analyst.

conventional

Pakistan in its hour of need. Its invaluable role

He can be reached at

weapons between Pakistan and India and

in the development of the JF-17 allowed the

ikram.sehgal@pk.g4s.com December 2009 | more | 17

{tEchnology |

Zubair Rehman

}

Google search has become much smarter with the release of its

Goggles software. Now with the help of this software you can get real time information about an image.

quantum computer that can identify particular objects in a database of stills or video. Google has been doing this, Neven says, with D-Wave, a Cana-

Yes, the future is here unless Bing.com does introduce something

dian firm that has developed an on-chip array of quantum bits – or

more advanced but Google the undisputed Crown King of search

qubits – encoded in magnetically coupled superconducting loops.

has introduced Image Query through which you can use image of

The team set themselves the challenge of writing an algorithm

an item to get its real time information. And “Goggles” allows users

for the chip that could learn to recognize cars in photos, and re-

to perform an Internet search by submitting a photograph instead

ported at the Neural Information Processing Systems conference in

of keywords. It can be used for all sorts of things - landmarks, books,

Vancouver, Canada, this week that they have succeeded.

game or record covers, contact info (where it'll employ text recognition), art and sculpture, certain places, like restaurants and local businesses and company logos. Snapping each one will provide you with relevant information about the subject. "It is our goal to be able to identify any image," said Google's Vice President of Engineering, Vic Gundotra.

how Google does it? Using 20,000 photographs of street scenes, half of which contained cars and half of which didn't, they trained the algorithm to recognize what cars look like by hand-labeling all the cars with boxes drawn around them.

“It represents our earliest eﬀorts in the field of computer vision.

After that training, the algorithm was set loose on a second set

You can take a picture of an item, use that picture of whatever you

of 20,000 photos, again with half containing cars. It sorted the im-

take as the query," he added.

ages with cars from those without faster than an algorithm on a con-

For using Googles software all you have to do is connect your Android phone to the Internet and start picture querying. The tool

ventional computer could – faster than anything running in a Google data centre today, Neven says.

compares the searched key-image with Google's database of bil-

Classical computers use what is known as a von Neumann ar-

lions of images. Goggle informs its analysis of the uploaded image

chitecture, in which data is fetched from memory and processed

to return relevant information. Currently, Goggles is available at

according to rules defined in a program to generate results that are

Google Labs website. It recognizes books, Artworks, places, land-

stored. It is pretty much a sequential process, though multiple ver-

marks, Logos and many other things.

sions of it can run in parallel to speed things up a little.

To use this software on your Android Phone visit this link:

Quantum computers, however, promise much faster pro-

http://www.google.com/mobile/goggles/#landmark

cessing, by exploiting the principle of quantum superposition:

when Google started it?

diﬀerent states at the same time. While each basic "bit" of data

that a particle such as an ion, electron or photon can be in two Hartmut Neven, head of its image recognition team, reveals that the Californian firm has for three years been quietly developing a 18 | more | December 2009

in a conventional computer can be either a 1 or a 0 at any one time, a qubit can be both at once.

{

on 4th 4th and and 5th 5th of of December December on mobilink remained remained active active socially. socially. mobilink

Group of Mobilink employees who regularly volunteer at the ceremony organized by Mobilink to mark International Volunteer Day. Also seen in the picture are Omar Manzur, Director Public Relations & Corporate Social Responsibility, Mobilink, Dr. Ahson Rabbani, Vice President Inputs, The Citizens Foundation and Mansoor Sarwar, Program Oﬃce Philanthropy Services, Pakistan Center for Philanthropy

Group Photo of Mobilink Foundation Torchbearers – Karachi Chapter at the ceremony of International Volunteer Day

| EvEnt}

n On the eve of International Volunteer Day (IVD), Mobilink commemorated employees for maintaining the spirit of volunteerism throughout the year. Designated by the United Nations since 1985, IVD is celebrated every year on December 5. The declared aim of IVD is to thank volunteers for their eﬀorts and increase public awareness on their contribution to society. Omar Manzur Director Public Relations & Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) stated, “As a socially responsible citizen, we believe in patronizing broadbased CSR initiatives throughout Pakistan. Mobilink has always been at the forefront of social initiatives and our employees continue to selflessly engage in community welfare, disaster relief, literacy enhancement, environment conservation, health care, and many more noble causes. This day is dedicated to acknowledge their exemplary endeavors.” Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ahson Rabbani, Vice President Inputs, The Citizens Foundation (TCF), shared,“While anyone can provide monetary support, it takes a focused CSR program to be able to also donate time. This proactive social assistance program clearly distinguishes Mobilink from other business organizations. As a practitioner of community development, I urge all healthy organizations to also promote the spirit of volunteerism among their employees.” Outstanding volunteers were awarded trophies whereas certificates of appreciation were also distributed among the highly motivated Torchbearers to recognize their relentless eﬀorts. Torchbearers in other cities were also appreciated through similar ceremonies organized by Mobilink n

Mobilink Foundation Torchbearers commemorate International Volunteer Day in Lahore. Cake cutting ceremony was organized to acknowledge and appreciate the eﬀorts of Torchbearers conducted during the year December 2009 | more | 19

{EvEnt | } PR

n On December 5the Company held the Mobilink Club Indigo 3rd Golf Invitational in Islamabad. Teed oﬀ by Irfan Akram, Vice President Customer Care, Mobilink, the 18-hole tournament has become an annual feature that Mobilink Club Indigo members look forward to. Providing a healthy and social environment, the tournament also attracts female golfers every year. Speaking at the closing ceremony, Rashid Khan, President & CEO, Mobilink, appreciated the keen participation of talented Golfers. “The tournament is aimed to encourage sports and community involvement. It gives me great pleasure to see that Mobilink Indigo has brought so many people all of whom share a passion for the sport. It is wonderful to be able to interact personally with so many Mobilink customers and skillful golfers who graciously accepted our invitation to come and display their talents at our annual event,” he added. n

Rashid Khan, Mobilink President & CEO with Waseem Akram, Cricketer and Mobilink Brand Ambassador

Players and organizers pose for group photo

Mansoor Khan, CEO Makabu greeted by Mustafa Peracha, Vice President, Broadband Cricketer & Mobilink Brand Ambassador, Wasim Akram and Carrier Division, Mobilink Sarmad Malik, Regional Director Customer Care Mobilink Group of participating golfers with the participants Irfan Akram, Vice President Customer Care Mobilink tees oﬀ at the 3rd Mobilink Club Indigo Golf Invitational Young golfer Azam Khan recieved a thunderous round of applause as Rashid Khan, Mobilink President & CEO presents him the the trophy for Sarmad Malik, Regional Director Customer Care, Winner Gross Mobilink along with golfers (Gents) 20 | more | December 2009

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December 2009 | more | 21

{EnErgy |

MORE Report

}

the world is moving ahead to utilize the power of two major elements on the mother earth, sun and the wind. The hottest green topic these days is

can be a good alternate source of energy.

how to make the most eﬃcient use of re-

The most cutting-edge work that we’re

newable resources. Experts across all in-

seeing in terms of using wind power for

dustries are trying to figure out how to

cell phones is the development of mo-

eﬀectively harness the power of the sun

bile phone towers that can be powered

and the wind to generate the energy

by the wind. We’re still in the early stages

Helix Wind Turbine 22 | more | December 2009

that is needed to power the devices used

of seeing this come to fruition but it’s be-

in their fields. In the area of mobile

ginning to happen. There are foreign

phones there has been a lot of media at-

companies in Pakistan oﬀering the solu-

tention on the development of various

tion but the pace is really slow, we

methods of using solar power. Solar

haven’t seen any live site getting energy

powered phone chargers, charging

from the wind.

packs and handsets have all made head-

A US based company Helix is to start in-

lines. However the sun isn’t the only re-

stalling its first wind based mobile

newable resource that the mobile phone

phone tower solution in early 2010 in Ar-

industry is interested in using. Wind

gentina with the help of World Bank.

power can also be used in conjunction

Among its benefits are; the turbine spins

with cell phone service. This might not

no matter what direction the wind

get as much attention as solar powered

comes from (including vertically) so it

phones have gotten but it can be just as

can be mounted lower, and generates

eﬀective if the kinks in its development

more energy in turbulent (urban) envi-

get worked out. It’s definitely something

ronments. The turbine can be mounted

to learn more about if you’re interested

lower, so installation costs will be lower,

in how the mobile phone industry is

and regulations less significant.

going to continue to go green.

Helix Wind Turbines can generate elec-

Most of the cellular operators are focusing

tricity in winds as slow as 10 mph. The

on solar initiative and few are thinking

turbines will power the towers and any

about the wind base initiatives. We will

extra electricity can be sold to the nearby

talk about the local initiatives in later para-

area, giving Communications a new

graphs but for now; let’s see how wind

source of revenue as well.

{EnErgy } This is not the first of its kind solution. In fact,

to charge your phone anywhere that al-

plans for going green. According to them,

there are quite a few diﬀerent projects un-

lowed you to put the charger outside to

“Apart from existing 4 sites, Telenor Pakistan

derway around the world which are work-

capture the energy of the wind. Unfortu-

aims to install 53 new sites on solar power

ing on this use of wind power. For example,

nately, this product has still not been made

system. The aim is to complete this deploy-

a telecommunications company in Austria

available on the market. Nevertheless, the

ment by early 2010. By doing so, approxi-

announced earlier this year that it had suc-

prototype for the product was successful. A

mately 5.5 MWH of solar energy will be

ceeded in using wind energy to power

similar device created by Indian students

generated reducing diesel generator usage.

eighty percent of the energy needs of one

back in 2005 was also successful. With inter-

It is a trade oﬀ, for solar site, the initial Capex

est in renewable resources growing rapidly

is comparatively higher but Opex is compar-

and solar-powered chargers already on the

atively lower. The solar solution will save 22

of its mobile base stations.

wind-powered mobile phone charger

market it is possible that there may be in-

hours of generator run / day. The two obvi-

creased demand for a wind-based product

ous benefits of utilizing solar energy in Pak-

such as this one in the near future.

istan are;

solar cell towers, a local Development from telenor

duce environmental impact that unclean

Wind isn’t only used on a big scale to power mobile phone towers and networks. It can also be used on a small scale to power devices related to mobile phones. The most obvious example of this is the development

It is green energy. This can potentially re-

power is causing, especially the usage of diesel generators has an adverse environmental impact

One of Telenor’s Solar Powered cell site

Orange’s wind powered cell phone charger

of a wind-powered mobile phone charger. There is a charger like this which was announced back in 2007. It’s a product called the Orange Wind Generator which was built

All over the world and in Pakistan as well, the

Demand of power in comparison with

by a company called GotWind. The device is

focus has been shifted towards solar based

supply is very high, resulting in power cuts

able to harness the energy from the wind

cell phone towers. Almost every GSM oper-

and loadshedding. Using alternate form and

twenty four hours per day and convert it

ator is moving ahead with plans to adopt

greener energies is high on priority list of

into electricity. This electricity can be used

these environment friendly solutions. Warid

Government

to power a variety of handheld devices in-

Telecom has shown its solar energy based

There are still a number of areas where grid

cluding mobile phones. It’s a small, portable

cell site few months back but there has not

electricity is a dream. Telenor Pakistan has

piece of equipment which would allow you

been any major development from them in

chosen to initially install solar solution at

later months as their entire expansion plan

sites which are completely oﬀ-grid. For this,

is on halt. Whereas, we heard from NSN 2

we are initially setting up solar sites on our

months back that they are continuing with

USF project sites in Mirpurkhas and Ba-

their plans to provide these cheap solutions

hawalpur (Cholistan) region. The model will

to Telenor in a situation when electricity in

serve as basis for future development. All

Pakistan is almost not viable in terms of cost

upcoming sites are going to be hybrid be-

and the availability.

cause of potential extra load that solar

We asked Telenor couple of this about their

power may not be able to handle”.

December 2009 | more | 23

{EnErgy |

MORE Report

}

a shiny polysilicon plant is like a shiny bomb. it may look clean and innocent, but you don’t want to have one in your neighborhood n

We see a glimpse of the possibilities to

stem climate change in the development of China’s solar and wind industries today, which have grown rapidly. But these developments are being held back and distorted by the demands of global and Chinese capitalism, causing investment bubbles, overcapacity (unbelievably) and extreme imbalances. Thus, while China is

“

For each 10kg of polysilicon produced – enough to make solar panel with a capacity of 1 kilowatt – chinese factories are burning two tonnes of coal. a one kilowatt panel is enough to keep a fridge cool for one day, while that amount of coal is enough to keep the same fridge running for 20 years!

”

now the number one manufacturer of

enabling them to improve their carbon

The central government’s target is to gen-

solar-cells and wind turbines, the vast

profile, while they shift many of their

erate 15 percent of China’s energy capac-

majority of this production is exported,

high-polluting industries to poor coun-

ity from wind, solar and other renewable

mostly to advanced capitalist countries

tries with lax regulation, especially China.

sources by 2020.

24 | more | December 2009

{EnErgy} China’s solar power industry has ex-

to pay their electricity bills!

over quality and cheap labour triumphs

panded at breakneck pace. It is now the

Silicon plants are also a major health

over technology. Entrepreneurs previously

world’s biggest producer of polysilicon. In

hazard. Despite being such a young indus-

involved in toy-making and other crisis

2004 the industry was negligible, but

try there has been a spate of local strug-

branches have this year ploughed cash into

reached 4,000 tonnes of polysilicon in 2007,

gles, some involving violent clashes with

wind and solar power for speculative rea-

rising to 30,000 tonnes this year and a target of 150,000 tonnes in 2011. Last year alone, 33 new polysilicon plants started production across China. But far from saving the world, the production of solar panels is aggravating pollution and adding to energy consumption. This is the reality of a production system, wracked by waste and a chaotic lack of planning, that is skewed towards the global capitalist market (98 percent of China’s solar cell production is exported). A

recent

article

sons, being duly rewarded with soaring

“

stock prices as hedge funds and other fin-

Entrepreneurs previously involved in toy-making and other crisis branches have this year ploughed cash into wind and solar power for speculative reasons, being duly rewarded with soaring stock prices as hedge funds and other financiers go crazy for anything linking the word “china” to the word “green”.

”

Stephen Chen in one of the local

anciers go crazy for anything linking the word “China” to the word “green”. There are now over 100 turbine makers around China engaged in the low-tech production of towers and turbines – many of poor quality. But there are only a handful of Chinese companies producing transmission gears and other technology-intensive components for the turbines. This mismatch, born of a lack of planning, has led to extreme distortions in the market. Overproduction of turbines has depressed prices. Struggling turbine makers are passing on this price pressure to their suppliers in the hi-tech components sector, threatening the survival of some of these companies.

newspapers pointed out

police, against the construction of such fac-

A lack of mostly imported “smart tech-

that for each 10kg of polysilicon

tories. Dr Dang Qingde, a pollution expert

nology” is also holding back the potential

produced – enough to make solar

from Sichuan, explained that “A shiny poly-

for wind power in China. Wind power fluc-

panel with a capacity of 1 kilowatt

silicon plant is like a shiny bomb. It may

tuates depending on weather conditions,

– Chinese factories are burning two

look clean and innocent, but you don’t

making it expensive to connect wind farms

tonnes of coal. A one kilowatt

want to have one in your neighbourhood.”

to national electricity grids. China lacks a

panel is enough to keep a fridge

Dang listed more than ten poisonous sub-

comprehensive national power grid, partly

cool for one day, while that

stances from chlorine to trichlorosaline

due to cost, and partly for political reasons:

amount of coal is enough to keep

(which attacks the lungs) found at a typical

provinces jealously guard their ‘own’ elec-

polysilicon plant.

tricity. Thus, while China now has 12.2 gi-

the same fridge running for 20 years! Minister of Science and Tech-

The rapid expansion of wind power in

gawatts of installed wind capacity, only a

nology, Dr Wan Gang, admitted

China, potentially a huge boon to the fight

quarter of this – 3 gigawatts – is actually

China is burning a lot of coal to produce

against climate change, is likewise being

used. To overcome this, China’s power grid

solar panels, most of which are exported to

hamstrung by lack of coordination and

and power storage facilities need an expen-

the West. “Developed countries get clean air

planning, and insuﬃcient “smart technol-

sive technological upgrade.

and reputation of a carbon-free economy,

ogy” alongside manic overinvestment in

Overall, the country is trying hard to be

while pollution and greenhouse gas emis-

more accessible low-tech sectors. Freed of

a leader in Green Technology, but, policies

sions are chalked up to our account,” he

such constraints, wind power alone could

are to be chalked out by the government

said. Furthermore, too rapid expansion (in

enable China to cut is emissions (total emis-

so that savior of the world could be saved

relation to current demand which is under-

sions, not carbon intensity) by 30 percent in

as well.

stimulated) has led to huge price falls. A

the next two decades, according to a report

This article is from the new issue of the

kilogram of polysilicon which sold for

in the US journal Science. This one example

Chinese magazine Shehui Zhuyi Zhe. We are

US$350 last year has slumped to US$70 this

highlights the fundamental weaknesses of

publishing it here to update our readers on the

year, leaving some Chinese factories unable

the Chinese economy: quantity triumphs

topic

December 2009 | more | 25

{EnErgy |

MORE Report

}

Just recently, in the UN Climate Summit 2009 on the issue

the representative says. On the other hand, China too suﬀers

of global warming, analysts revealed that a large split ap-

from eﬀects of global warming such as an increased deserti-

peared between developing nations. While some of them

fication and decreased water supplies, but refuses to ac-

think that a legally binding deal tougher than the 1997 Kyoto

knowledge the problem.

Protocol should be set in place, richer, developing states such

The Tuvalu call was supported by some of the states that

as China oppose such measures, saying that they would curb

stood to lose most if the eﬀects of climate change were not

their economic growth. This type of situations has never been

“

mitigated – the Association of Small Island States (AOSIS), including the Cook Islands, Barbados and Fiji, and also some

china, India and south africa were among the countries that opposed the proposal, saying that the existing regulations were enough. they are actually afraid that such actions will reduce their economic growth, and again place them in the shadow of the developed world

”

met before, as countries of this group, which also includes

African countries that are extremely poor, such as Sierra Leone, Senegal and Cape Verde. These nations want the CO2 levels in the atmosphere to be stabilized to 350 parts per million (ppm), rather than the 450 ppm that the international community seems willing to discuss. This would translate into a 1.5-degree Celsius temperature increase, rather than a 2-degree one. China, India and South Africa were among the countries that opposed the pro-

some of the poor African countries, tend to stick together, and

posal, saying that the existing regulations were enough. They

agree with decisions in block, the BBC News reports.

are actually afraid that such actions will reduce their eco-

Ian Fry, the negotiator for the country Tuvalu, asked and

nomic growth, and again place them in the shadow of the de-

obtained a suspension of the talks on this matter until the

veloped world, which is largely responsible for the current

issue could be resolved. “My prime minister and many other

situation in any case. “The main task of this (conference) is to

heads of state have the clear intention of coming to Copen-

adapt an agreed outcome from the Bali Action Plan [agreed

hagen to sign on to a legally binding deal. Tuvalu is one of

in 2007] and we should very much focus on that. We have a

the most vulnerable countries in the world to climate

very valid system to combat climate change,” Su Wei, who is

change, and our future rests on the outcome of this meeting,”

China's lead negotiator, says. n

26 | more | December 2009

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December 2009 | more | 27

{rEvIEws |

More In-House

}

Nokia seems to be getting aggressive in the

music domain. After the popularity of 5800 it was necessary to reach masses which compelled Nokia to make 5530 for everyone. Though, this decently priced phone doesn’t share everything a smart phone does but it still does not turn you down in most of the cases.

Good n n

2.9" 16M-color TFT LCD, touchscreen display

3.2 megapixel autofocus camera with LED flash and VGA@30fps video

Soft QWERTY keyboard option

4GB microSD card memory expansion inside the box

FM radio with RDS

Nice sound, standard 3.5mm audio jack, Stereo speakers

Bluetooth with A2DP and USB v2.0

Wi-Fi connectivity

Proximity sensor for screen auto turn-oﬀ

Accelerometer sensor for automatic UI rotation

Oﬃce document viewer

OVI integration

bad

28 | more | December 2009

Gets stuck on Flash Enabled Websites

Slow accelerometer

USB data cable is extraordinarily small and annoying

Rough audio jack insertion

No built-in GPS receiver

Poor display under sunlight

Average camera image quality

Ordinary video recording quality

The unlock button start getting loose just after a week of usage

{ rEvIEws} Design

save all the radio station it scans in a particular area. Touching the

Both the microSD and SIM card slots are on the left hand side. The volume rocker and the slider that locks and unlocks the

screen will activate the volume adjuster which is very handy little facility.

phone screen are on the opposite side, along with the camera

While radio is on, station names are displayed across the screen

shutter. The 3.5mm jack is on the bottom side, with the microUSB

very decently. It also has RDS support and automatic scanning for

and charger ports on either side. The bottom left corner keeps

an alternative frequency.

the plastic stylus, which is quite handy, especially in the presence

camera is not ok

of this small font size of 5530. Soft buttons, the Call and End keys, and the menu key in the

3.2 MP camera is not something to impress with. It has tons of

middle, are just under the display. They require a little more push

option that user can select in the camera application which is very

to work than the touchscreen command. Press and hold on the

user friendly. But having a maximum image resolution of

menu key launches the task manager. You can choose to go for an-

2048x1536 pixels we expected it perform better but the images it

other menu, home or stick to the current application.

shoots are really noisy and you can’t depend on this machine when

searching is superb

the LED flash which works with the still and video camera as well

you want to save your moments, indoor and outdoor as well. It has File management system in 5530 or we can say symbian OS is

but even then the result is below average.

above all. Moving, sending, copying, renaming the files is never an

Videos which are captured in MPEG-4 format are somehow

issue. Search any file is extra ordinary, you just have to know a part

compressed in such a way that they do not produce a good

of its name and the phone will bring it before you all the possible

quality.

entries with that particular name even the file is in some submenu.

connectivity and browsing

“

usB cable is too short in length, with a laptop it may work ok but when you connect it with your desktop, it will hang like a toy. perhaps nokia had to keep it that way as it wanted to reduce the cost, ridiculous isn’t it?

multimedia

”

5530 has same earlier music application but the quality of the

There is no 3G in Pakistan and it does not have the option as well so you can’t make use of Nokia’s improved browser while you are on move because you will have to rely on EDGE or GPRS which unfortunately in Pakistan aren’t good enough and pricey as well for the masses. It has a good connectivity with WLAN where it will not disappoint you. One thing to be taken care of by Nokia people that browser crashes while playing videos most of the times. Secondly you can’t open other applications when you are browsing, it will

music has improved. The best thing for music lover is that they can

crash the browser as well. You need to close those applications and

choose the equalizer setting from a list already available options

then continue with your browsing which is not acceptable.

or change it to something according to the taste. Though, the qual-

USB cable is too short in length, with a laptop it may work ok

ity of sound is very good but the volume level is somewhat limited

but when you connect it with your desktop, it will hang like a toy.

for those who like to hear loud music.

Perhaps Nokia had to keep it that way as it wanted to reduce the

In the video domain, the quality is poor. Nokia 5530 has the op-

cost, ridiculous isn’t it?

tion of converting your video into its acceptable format through

Both USB and Bluetooth are version 2.0 and the latter naturally

its software but by doing so it compress the video too much and

also supports A2DP. Unfortunately, the 5530 doesn't charge oﬀ its

most of the time it starts giving a blurry look with degraded sound.

microUSB port unlike all other recent Nokia phones. Standard

You won’t enjoy your favorite movie on 5530. You can stream

3.5mm audio jack is a little stiﬀ but works well.

videos as well. But in the absence of 3G you won’t be able to do it on move but at home or oﬃce you can always do it within in your

verdict

WLAN range. But one thing, Nokia 5530 has issue with playing

Calling , messaging, emailing and music are some of plus points

movies on the web. It gets stuck most of the time when especially,

of Nokia 5530 and if you are not too much worried about the cam-

playing a YouTube movie.

era and you are not an old touch screen user of Samsung Star or

FM Radio is a treat, a very simple and user friendly interface that everyone would appreciate for sure. It can automatically scan and

S8000 or something from LG who can’t live without a very brisk screen response, Nokia 5330 XpressMusic is for you.

December 2009 | more | 29

{rEvIEws |

Sana Shah

}

It can be argued that every laptop available in the market

and configuration that the DELL Studio XPS 1340 and 1640

is similar. But what enables a brand to make its product stand

gives you helps you maintain a comfortable balance between

out from the competition can be divided across a few cate-

high power and looking great while you get all the work done.

gories: its configuration, price competitiveness and, of course,

Laptops not only help to create behavior and usage pat-

its aesthetics. In the recent past, DELL’s introduction of the Stu-

terns, but they also align their features and hardware interface

dio XPS 1340 and 1640 has added the ‘variation’ buzzword to

to help users be more eﬃcient in how they operate the ma-

its already impressive portfolio of machines. Whether it’s the

chines. Whether it’s for home use, gaming or working in an of-

P8600 or the T9550 model you are looking at, the Intel

fice environment, the laptop has to emulate the character and

Core2Duo matches the processing power that suits its super

personality of the user. If you get a laptop that fits your func-

cool looks.

tional requirements, seldom will it also meet the aesthetics

With the advent of Web 2.0 and the sheer power today’s new age applications need to operate on, the functionality 30 | more | December 2009

you need. The two models on the XPS 13 and XPS 16 comfortably match both needs.

{rEvIEws} meet the studio xps 16 There are two models oﬀered in the Studio XPS 16 range: P8600 and the T9550. An Intel Core2Duo at 2.4GHz of power, 3GB of RAM and

Card reader to manage all the range of cards you might be using in your everyday activities. Ethernet LAN and Wifi, of course, are standard features on the machines.

a 320GB hard drive comfortably establish the power you get out of the

Display is another important part of the laptop experience.

Studio XPS 16 P8600 model. The T9550, on the other hand, gives you

With users developing the habit of using the laptop for several

an Intel Core2Duo 2.66GHz with 4GB of RAM and a 500GB hard drive.

hours be it for gaming of oﬃce use, it is important to be com-

Some of the greatest concerns most power users have involved ca-

fortable in the display you are looking into for the long dura-

pacity and speed, both of which are resolved with the Studio XPS 16

tions. A 16-inch display give you a sharp, colorful RGB-LED

models. In fact, compared to other laptops in the same price range,

display with a resolution that goes up to 1266x768 allowing you

the Studio XPS 16 gives you more space and power for your budget.

to have some great looking graphics on your screen.

Both laptop models give you the 512 ATI Mobility Radeon HD, which provide users with greater control over their laptop’s optimal

the specs: cool power!

performance. The component uses advanced vector adaptive de-

The P8600 gives you get two USB 2.0 ports an HDMI and Dis-

interlacing by Avivo to produce one of the smoothest images avail-

playPort connections if you need to output onto an external

able while enhancing the high definition video acceleration on

projection source, two headphone jacks in addition to the usual

HD-DVD and Blu ray. And speaking of Blu ray discs, the slot load

mic and LAN Ethernet. On the other side of the laptop, you get

drive helps the laptops to get their slim look. Couple these feature

an ExpressCard/54 slot, 8-in-1 memory card reader to handle

sets with the fact that the Studio XPS 16 laptops give you 16:9, the

the variety of memory cards available in the Pakistani market,

16-inch laptop gives some great value for money. The wide set keys on the Studio XPS 16 are definitely one of the make you type better and faster. The backlit keyboard and the leather trim around the laptop give it the sophisticated look most machines simply can’t have. Space management on laptops is important to let the user be comfortable using various features on the laptop. Not only do the laptops manage their space well, they also pack a lot of power in their layout. They are thin, they are light and they have pretty much every-

Firewire 400 which helps with the quick file transfer from external drives along with and an eSATA port. The cool thing about

“

Both laptop models give you the 512 atI mobility radeon hD, which provide users with greater control over their laptop’s optimal performance

thing the doctor ordered!

”

the eSATA port is that it doubles as a PowerShare USB port al-

communication through the xps 16

lowing you to recharge USB devices even when the machine is

With Web 2.0 taking over every part of our lives, laptops

powered down. There is a 6 cell battery which will give you

today need to deliver on their promise of integrated communi-

about 2.2 hours of battery life at a full charge – If you opt for the

cation in addition to the multimedia-rich experience, and the

9 cell battery, you can increase this to 3.2 hours.

Studio XPS 16 do just that. Communication tools such as Skype

On the other hand, the T9550 model gives you even more

have become part of the default installation most power users

power packed for the punch. An Intel Core2Duo processor at

have running on their machines and the multimedia configura-

2.66 GHz with 4GB RAM and a 500MB hard drive.

tion on the laptops helps them to experience an enhanced recording and quality of interaction. The 2-megapixel webcam completes the interactive experience.

the bottom line If you compare both the models of the DELL Studio XPS, they

Having quick and easy access to the multimedia is also im-

give you the best of both worlds of style and power. The video

portant when discussing how the laptops are aligned to the be-

acceleration, storage capacity and multimedia capabilities are

havior of most laptop users. A shortcut for the most-accessed

up there and competitive to any other brand out there in the

features in a machine helps to increase the interaction users have

market. DELL probably rates better value for money when com-

with the equipment they are using at the touch-sensitive multi-

pared to other brands in the same price and configuration sets.

media buttons above the keyboard layout help accomplish this.

If you’re looking for a laptop that gives you the best of style

You get good quality sound with a 7-watt integrated stereo speakers equipped with a subwoofer and an 8-in-one Media

and speed, DELL Studio XPS 16 is probably the laptop you are looking for! n December 2009 | more | 31

{rEvIEws |

MORE -in-House

}

everyone. If you look at the current

own. That last two additions show that

product lineup of Samsung, it can

Samsung see enough space available on

be easily guessed that there are two

the market for budget QWERTY handsets

Touch screen phones should not be a

focal points, Touch Screens of highest

luxury, they shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be too much pricey

class and the QWERTY keyboards. Yesâ&#x20AC;Ś

Last month we reviewed Corby S3653

anymore; this is what Samsung thought

this is what has amazed the deprived mo-

which was the first to come in Pakistan as

when they started to move ahead with

bile phone users.

a first member of the Corby family. And

this idea. Perhaps they are the largest

to justify their development.

The distinct youthful appeal is what

now, Corby B3210 and B3410 are out as

touch screen phone maker as of today

unites the Corby family but each of its

well. Samsung has created this multi col-

with so much variety and a phone for

members has plenty of character of its

ored series keeping in view the taste of

32 | more | December 2009

{rEvIEws} youth. B3410 is the fourth mobile phone that Samsung has introduced within the range of Rs. 15,000 - 20,000 during the last 3 months starting from Samsung Star. Company is doing good to fill the vacuum created in the absence of Motorola and Sony Ericsson. Now there are just Nokia and Samsung fighting for the middle range supremacy. Samsung seems to be winning the slot as Nokia is far from perfection in the touch screen domain, par-

“

samsung seems to be winning the slot as nokia is far from perfection in the touch screen domain, particularly, if we talk about the screen responsiveness

”

ticularly, if we talk about the screen responsiveness.

corby b3410 Coming back to the topic, though Samsung had introduced the sets into the market but the formal launch took place on November 29 with all the styles and colors around. At a local hotel in Lahore, Samsung had gathered all the top icons from the Fashion and Design world. It was meant to tell people how Samsung care for style and trend in all its products. This unique event was attended by a huge audience despite of local Eid Holidays. Samsung B3410 diﬀers very little from any other full touchscreen Samsung phone. It comes with the native Samsung OS and has familiar Samsung TouchWiz 2 user interface. You can’t put all the features in a phone. Some people compare this price slot with Samsung Star but this is not right as Star was completely a touch based phone whereas B3410 has sliding out QWERTY key pad control. Apparently it belongs to a high end category. Messaging is one of the prominent features and to make typing fast Samsung put this sliding keyboard into it. There is a market for this device, the young folks, mid to late teens, who love to keep in touch with their friends on the move via social networking. This is the reason of QWERTY keyboard on such a low/middle end device – the Samsung B3410 has integrated support for a host of sites, including Facebook, Picasa, Flickr, MySpace and so on. With QWERTY keyboard Samsung B3410 makes textual work out a joy on its 2.6 inch TFT 262k color Touch Screen at 240 x 320 Pixels. You only have to rely on GPRS &EDGE as 3G and WLAN support is not available. This is a little downside I would say. When you open the keyboard the default SMS application opens automatically. Rotating the handset will briskly toggle the touch screen and QWERTY mode. The BT messenger gives you a feel of computer and when online you can do chatting with your attuned handsets. The 30 MB of internal memory can have expanded support using microSD card. Phonebook allows 1000 entries and Photo call feature. The memory holds 30 of each dialed, received and missed calls as well as useful organizer. On the multimedia end, the features are worth mentioning. An MP3 player which can also play MP4 videos also plus an FM radio as well. Sometimes you would find diﬃculty while playing video but if you choose the right MP4 format it won’t disturb you. You always December 2009 | more | 33

{rEvIEws} From (L-R) Mudassar J Mufti, Editor in Chief MORE Magazine, Zeshan Qureshi, Country Marketing Head, Samsung Mobiles, Steve Han, Country Head Samsung Pakistan

need to insert the MicrSD card because internal memory does not allow you to save your desired number of media files. Bluetooth 2.1 is included, which supports wireless audio connectivity, plus allows files and images to be transferred between devices at close range. 2 MP, 1600x1200 pixels camera and QVGA at 13fps is not enough but again don’t compare it to other phones you cannot get all the features in one machine. It’s a trade oﬀ.

corby b3210 If you are a really heavy texter in need of a QWERTY keyboard but don't have much to spend then Samsung has this beautiful trendy handset for you. A good size screen & QWERTY keyboard fills the front section of this handset. The screen is 176x144 pixels of size 2.2 inches which is a little low on resolution side but it doesn’t create any problem for texters. QWERTY keyboard is ideal for inputting text at high speeds but won’t help those having big fingers. Overall, Samsung has been able to maintain a very compact size. This mobile phone comes with a changeable cover facility which allows the user to change the handsets casing to suit the style. Texting is much easier on B3210 as compared to this one but it is not bad either. There is a built in media player, which is fairly basic, but manages MP3, AAC and WMA audio files, which covers the most popular formats used. To accompany this, the B3210 has a stereo FM radio, with RDS, which allows you to preset your favourite radio stations, so you can easily switch between them. The inclusion of a 3.5mm audio jack allows you to listen to music while using your own favorite headset. In the absence of 3G and WLAN, you rely on GPRS and EDGE. That makes your web browsing a little slow but it largely depends upon the speed you get from your operator. Other than this Bluetooth 2.1 with A2DP included the connectivity as well. Again, you need the extra MicroSD card to save your media files as internal memory of 40MB will not do the job for you. The handset is aimed for the younger class who always looks for an attractive and funky handset but hardly gets one because of budget constraint. If you are not into full featured phones then just go and get your Corby right now. 34 | more | December 2009

{

saddads

| rEvIEws}

December 2009 | more | 35

{avIatIon |

Faraz Usmani

}

The United Arab Emirates is a modern

and dynamic country. To some, it is an advanced and clean country, to others a touristy "Disneyland". For most tourists, the UAE oﬀers an environment that is ex-

“

the city of abu Dhabi, which is located on a low-lying island, features a manhattan-like skyline with tree-lined roads and landscaped parks and gardens. sparkling waters of the arabian gulf

tremely familiar yet with the western mod-

”

ern touch. The malls are extraordinarily

ucts from around the world. These can be

However, with or without availing the

constructed and filled with virtually any

hard to find for the average traveler, as the

Etihad Dubai services – the airline is still a

product available in the West.

malls tend to gain an overwhelming

great option to take for all those who are

amount of attention.

traveling to the new Dubai area – the

The roads and other public facilities are modern if, at times, extremely crowded. Su-

Etihad Airway, the national airline of UAE,

permarkets oﬀer a vast assortment of prod-

has given everyone from Pakistan an excel-

minutes from Dubai, Abu Dhabi Interna-

ucts from the U.S. and Europe, mainly from

lent alternative to reach Dubai. With the

tional Airport is the perfect place to arrive,

Green, Jumeriah and near Jebal Ali. Just 45

the U.K., along with local and regional

Dubai city check-in passengers can check-in

next time one is visiting the UAE. It’s fast -

items. Major international chains such as

24 hours before the flight and be eligible to

with fast-track VIP services, fast immigration

Ikea and Carrefour have a presence and

the Etihad shuttle service between Dubai

clearance and quick limousine and compli-

fast-food chains (nearly all from the U.S.)

and Abu Dhabi. Located on Sheikh Zayed

mentary executive coach connections –

such as McDonald's and KFC operate

Road, Etihad’s Dubai oﬃce, oﬀers this round-

and it’s comfortable - with the eﬃcient new

widely. On the other hand, there are still

the-clock facility for Etihad passengers in

Terminal 3 facility and luxurious new First

crowded traditional souks filled with prod-

Dubai to check in from the city.

and Business Class lounges, featuring Six

36 | more | December 2009

{avIatIon} Warner Brothers theme park. On 2nd December United Arab Emirates is celebrating their 38th national day – and the ministry of culture is planning as many as 62 events as a part of the festivities. As the national carrier, Etihad Airways in Pakistan is not only co-hosting the National Day celebrations with the UAE Consulate in Karachi, but has also introduced special one-day discounted fares to their home-base Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi is still in the development phase and the national airline – Etihad Airways goes hand in hand with the developSenses Spa rejuvenating treatments and

most

particularly

ment of the Emirate. New projects taken on

dining on demand.

Guggenheim and Louvre. These will be lo-

by Abu Dhabi to develop the surrounding

famous

museums

Whereas Dubai has been the main at-

cated at the Saadiyat Island which is

areas such as the Saadiyat or Yas Marina Is-

traction of UAE visitors for many decades

planned to become the cultural hub of the

lands. have a lot to do with the support of

now, Abu Dhabi is not only the capital of

entire UAE bringing together the arts and

Etihad, which is working closely with the

the UAE but the hippest emirate of them all!

culture from all over the world. In addition

UAE authorities to make Abu Dhabi the

Year-round sunshine, pristine beaches,

Abu Dhabi is also the home of the very first

gateway to the UAE. Once these projects are

spectacular sand dunes and pulsating cos-

Formula 1 circuit in the UAE where the final

complete – Abu Dhabi will have the best of

mopolitan lifestyle await every guest in Abu

2009 Grand Prix is to be hosted this Novem-

the entire world within the emirate and sur-

Dhabi. Such idyllic setting cuddles this emi-

ber. This is oﬃcially the Yas Marina Circuit

rounding areas. It will not just remain the

rate known around the world for its massive

on the Yas Marina Island. Here you will soon

business hub of the UAE but will become

oil reserves and majestic mosques with

also find the Ferrari theme park and the

the tourism capital of the world!

towering minarets. These, combined with the distinct Arab hospitality and mystique - and world-class infrastructure - make Abu Dhabi an excellent destination both for the experienced and novice traveler. It is the largest of seven emirates comprising the UAE, occupying more than 80% of the country’s total land mass and featuring a coastline that stretches over 700 kilometers. Desert dominates Abu Dhabi’s terrain, covering as much as 70 percent of its land area. The city of Abu Dhabi, which is located on a low-lying island, features a Manhattan-like skyline with tree-lined roads and landscaped parks and gardens. Sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf, which surround the city, complete the scenic vista. The Abu Dhabi city bursts with dazzling business-cum-leisure facilities ranging from state-of-the-art convention centres, luxurious hotels, spas, designer golf courses, the-

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE celebrated United Arab Emirate's 38th UAE National Day in Islamabad. The event was a fusion of all UAE based companies operating in Pakistan, the UAE consulate, counsel generals, ambassadors and bureaucrats. Picture shows; Mr. Amer N. Khan, Country Manager Etihad Airways Pakistan meeting with the Prime Minister Mr. Yusuf Raza Gillani at the UAE National Day celebratory evening.

atres and very soon, some of the world’s December 2009 | more | 37

{month In Focus} Rs. 1.25 Billion of Universal Service Fund in NWFP and Balochistan Universal Service Fund awarded telecom contracts worth Rs. 1.25 Billion for providing Broadband Internet in the un-served urban areas of Hazara Telecom Region (HTR) with PTCL and Wateen Telecom and Optic Fiber connectivity to un-served tehsils of Central Balochistan with Wateen Telecom. SEVP-Corporate Development-PTCL, Sikandar Naqi and General Manager-Wateen Telecom, Mazhar Qayum Butt signed these contracts with CEOUniversal Service Fund, Parvez Iftikhar. Secretary IT, Mr. Naguibullah Malik witnessed the signing ceremony as the chief guest.

Seen in the Picture(L-R): General Manager-Wateen Telecom, Mazhar Qayum Butt and CEO-Universal Service Fund, Parvez Iftikhar signing the contract

In the Broadband project, PTCL and Wateen Telecom together will be paid Rs. 266 Million, out of the Universal Service Fund that is collected from contributions of licensed telecom operators, to provide broadband internet services in Abbottabad, Batagram, Haripur, Kohistan and Mansehra districts (17 towns) of Hazara Telecom Region (HTR). In addition to this, 145 educational broadband centres will be established in higher-secondary schools, colleges and libraries and 21 community broadband centres in the all the 17 towns of HTR. Six hundred thousand people live in these small towns and cities.

Seen in the Picture(L-R): SEVP-Corporate Development-PTCL, Sikandar Naqi and CEOUniversal Service Fund, Parvez Iftikhar signing the contract

Whereas, in the Optic Fiber project, Wateen Telecom will be paid Rs. 986 Million for laying more than 1,100 kms of optic fiber in 11 un-served tehsils (including 6 Tehsil HQ’s and 5 other towns of Central Balochistan and 3 Tehsil HQ’s and 3 other towns of Punjab). Around seven hundred thousand people who live in these Tehsils, will benefit from this project. 38 | more | December 2009

Nokia 2710 Navigation Edition Revealed At a launch event held in the Egyptian capital Cairo, Nokia has unveiled the latest device in the company’s range focused on mapping and navigation, the Nokia 2710 Navigation Edition. The new arrival is GPS enabled and pre-loaded with Nokia Maps, making it the most affordable GPS device in Nokia’s broad portfolio. It will be available in the second quarter of 2010 estimated to cost, before taxes and subsidies, €110. Due to the accessible and aﬀordable pricing, the new device is expected to be popular in the developed and developing world alike. The handset has been optimized for use across urban environments, small towns, as well as rural areas – incorporating straight line pedestrian navigation with the assistance of an integrated digital compass. Straight line technology allows people a comprehensive range of mobile navigation capabilities for use across pathless terrains. Other features include turn-by-turn driving navigation with full voice guidance, which recalibrates routes depending on the driver’s current GPS location, all accessed with a convenient dedicated navigation key.

Toni&Guy Continues to Redefine Hair Styling Creativity To n i & G u y opened its largest salon in the world in Karachi last year. Since then, it has revolutionized personal grooming for Pakistani women & men with innovative creativity. Adding to its stellar performance is the new color enhancing range and the Toni&Guy Electrical line of products. This new product range was recently announced at a star-studded press briefing held at The Forum Shopping Mall in Karachi Distinguished personalities present at the press briefing were Mr. Saleem Mandviwalla, Minister of State and Chairman Board of Investment, Mr. Robert Gibson, British Deputy High Commissioner and Mrs. Saeeda Mandviwalla, CEO, Toni&Guy Karachi. Other well-known celebrities such as Nadia Hussain, Toni&Guy’s brand Ambassador in Pakistan, Areesha Donjoivani, Saira Akhtar and Mahira Khan also graced the occasion with their presence.

{month In Focus} LG’s new smartphone in market LG Electronics (LG), recently announced the imminent launch of three new Windows phones in the next few weeks, delivering on LG’s commitment to further grow its share of the global smartphone market. The three devices will kick off LG’s most aggressive smartphone strategy to date, which will ultimately result in a total of 13 new LG-branded Windows® phones launched globally before the end of 2010. The three latest additions to LG’s expanding smartphone line-up and the first to include the new Windows Mobile® 6.5 operating system include a full touchscreen device, a touch slider with QWERTY keyboard and a QWERTY bartype handset. The three phones will be aimed at different segments of the market ranging from premium to affordable smartphones. The phones will be introduced initially for early adopter customers in Europe, the United States and Asia before being made available globally.

Nadia husain is flanked by consumers at the Samsung Corby Activity held at Pak Towers Recently. Corby is the latest series of phones introduced principally for the youngsters

Chairman, FPCCI Aviation committee, Mr. Yahya Polani, presenting a souvenir to the Governor Sindh, Dr. Ishrat-Ul-Ebad. Also seen present on the occasion are Speaker Sindh Assembly, Nisar Khoro, S M Muneer, Haji Masood Parekh, Mian Zahid Husain, Kumail Polani and others

Ejaz Ali Shah Appointed National Chair for IPRA Council

Intel Pakistan Corporation signed an LoU with the American Institutes for Research (AIR) which encompasses the joint collaborative eﬀorts and activities by AIR and Intel toward the promotion of technology in the training services provided to teachers and head-teachers of public sector schools supported by the USAID funded program. Intel and AIR will collaborate to promote technology aided learning in the education environment through implementation of the Intel Teach Program. Seen in the picture are Ashar H. Zaidi, Country Manager, Intel Pakistan Corporation and John Raleigh, Chief of Party of the USAID funded program at the signing ceremony

Mr. Ejaz Ali Shah will be representing Pakistan as the National Chair for the International Public Relations Association (IPRA) Council for the years 2010-11. Mr. Shah’s two year term will begin on January 01, 2010. As National Chair, Mr. Shah will provide liaison between the IPRA International Secretariat and Pakistan, promote IPRA membership among qualified practitioners in the country and liaise with the IPRA Board Member with functional responsibility for Membership. He will also develop local activities for members and publicize the Association and its activities in the Pakistan.

Selsun Blue launched its new anti-dandruff shampoo The event spanned throughout the day: in the morning, prominent stylists displayed their cutting prowess, sampled the shampoo and were highly pleased with the results; this was followed by a glamorous fashion show presented by a renowned fashion school of Karachi; later prominent artists such as Abid Ali and style diva Saba Ansari, along with luminaries like Sohail Asghar, Sadia Imam, Shagufta Ejaz and many others graced the event with their presence and expressed their support for upcoming designers. At the event, the Selsun Blue team paid homage to the actors of yore such as Jehan Ara Hai, Parveen Akbar, Abid Ali and many more. Also present were Suzzane, Shabbir Jaan, Nida Pasha and many other celebrities who rule the present television screen. The new Selsun Blue is a daily anti-dandruff control shampoo which has Aloe Vera and essential moisturizers. Selsun Blue is the only anti-dandruff control shampoo with Selenium Sulfide which is twice as effective as any other anti-dandruff shampoo. December 2009 | more | 39

{month In Focus}

In Pakistan, Blackberry is taken as a

card and wish to get the BlackBerry serv-

symbol of status and anyone in Corporate

ices will contact the Zong franchise or

sector thinks of it as a must buy. As soon

corporate sales team and get their hand-

as anyone gets a corporate job, he/she

set along with the postpaid connection

starts finding ways to get a BlackBerry in

and BlackBerry services at once. Rs.

his hands, changing a car is not an option

4,000/5,000 will be deducted from their

but getting a Blackberry means every-

credit card on monthly basis.

thing for the guy.

Company further says, it is giving the handset for free and only charging Rs.

“

not only it will be a ray of hope for rIm based BlackBerry but for other mobile phone manufacturers in pakistan as well who are currently facing too much resistance from cheap and illegal chinese handsets

”

2,000 as line rent and remaining Rs. 2,000 for a very cheap call rates on postpaid connection and unlimited internet usage without any cap that makes the communication very cheap. For details please visit www.zong.com.pk or contact one of the Zong’s franchises. Not only it will be a ray of hope for RIM based BlackBerry but for other mobile phone manufacturers in Pakistan as well

Zong’s recent campaign tells that for get-

who are currently facing too much resist-

ting a BlackBerry you do not need to be

ance from cheap and illegal Chinese hand-

heavy salaried person. Now you can get

sets, illegal in a terms that they do not

ZONG Blackberry services on easy

have the IMEI number on them.

monthly installments, Curve 8900 for Rs.

Branded phones manufacturers will be

4,000 per month and Bold 9000 for Rs.

able to make new deals with the cellular

5,000 per month according to the com-

operators and this way industry can move

pany. The monthly installment plan spans

towards the genuine sales contrary to fake

over 2 years that makes the Curve 8900

SIM sales in the past.

package for Rs. 96,000 and Bold 9000

Perhaps this first step could turn out to be

package for Rs. 120,000 at the end of con-

a trend maker for upcoming MVNOs for

tractual period.

which PTA has already announced the pol-

According to the details provided by the

icy frame work and so far there is no one

company, customers who use the credit

to come forward for the license.

40 | more | December 2009

the blackberry curve is a sleek full-Qwerty smartphone that feels comfortable for either one-handed or two-handed use. its large, striking 2.4 inch hvGa+ display (480x360 pixels) projects vivid color and makes information easy to read. the blackberry curve 8900 provides global connectivity support and helps people stay connected and find their way with built-in wi-fi® (802.11 b/g) and Gps. the blackberry bold smartphone is a communications and multimedia powerhouse. it supports tri-band hsDpa highspeed networks around the world and comes with integrated Gps and wi-fi (802.11 a/b/g). it also features a rich set of multimedia capabilities, including a 2 megapixel camera with video recording and an advanced media player for music, videos and pictures.

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Recently More Magazine conducted a market survey to know the views of shopkeepers about local and Chinese Mobile Phone accessories. What they say is presented below; raja kashif ceo at-alfa said, imran bashir, ceo amb said, “Local manufacturing “People love to accessorize their of accessories is very costly as we don’t have suﬃcheap handsets to make them look cient resources while Chinese accessories are availexpensive but those who got exable easily at reasonable rates. People demand pensive handsets seldom change accessories as they cannot use a phone if the charger accessories, they only go for origiis lost. Chinese batteries and chargers tops our sales.” nal ones. Our Indoor mobile chargTalking about the problems at Hall Road, he sugers, casings, batteries and gested that there should be a six storey car parking Bluetooth hands-free sell like hotplaza to accommodate all kinds of vehicles and for cakes.” According to him, the main security reasons every car should be checked and problem at hall Road is lack of security and parking. “Govsecurity cameras must be installed in sensitive areas of Hall Road. ernment is not taking any serious security measures to protect us or our customers.” hafiz tariq hassan, ceo sharJah internahkt General manager, Ghulam tional said, “No local manufacturing is seen so far mustafa said, “Due to lack of local only mobile phones covers are made here which are manufacturing we have to sell of very low grade. UNIVERSE is importing top of the Chinese accessories and the acline mobile accessories. People buy accessories accessories by HKT are better than cording to their needs but quality products are very any brand in the market”. He hard to find in a market like Hall Road. Some shopcalled encroachments the main keepers deceive people by selling low grade products culprit behind traﬃc jams and and when the customer claims the warranty they usuparking problems at Hall road, ally misbehave with him, this should not be practiced.”

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Intel Corporation’s Intel Reader can assist the estimated 55 million people in the U.S. who have dyslexia or other specific learning disabilities, or have vision problems such as low-vision or blindness, which makes reading printed words diﬃcult or impossible. The Intel The Intel Reader is a mobile handheld device designed to increase Reader, about the size of independence for people who have trouble reading standard print. a paperback book, converts printed text to digital text, and then reads it aloud to the user. Its unique design combines a high-resolution camera with the power of an Intel Atom processor, allowing users to point shoot and listen to printed text.

X-Flex wallpaper: stronger than the wall

Invented by Berry Plastics in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, X-Flex is a lifesaving adhesive designed for use in anyplace that’s prone to blasts and other lethal forces, like in war or natural-disaster zones, chemical plants or airports. To keep a shelter’s walls from collapsing in an explosion and to contain all the flying debris, you simply peel oﬀ the wallpaper’s sticky backing, apply the rollable sheets to the inside of brick or cinder-block walls, and reinforce it with fasteners at the edges. XFlex bonds so tightly, it helps walls keep their shape after blast waves. Two layers are strong enough to stop a blunt object, like a flying 2x4, from knocking down drywall. The wallpaper’s strength and ductility is derived from a layer of Kevlar-like material sandwiched by sheets of elastic polymer wrap. The combination works so well that the US Army is now considering wallpapering bases in Iraq and Afghanistan. n

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solar power tile

Intel reader gives voice to text

Billed as the first curved photovoltaic roofing product, the Soler Power Tile replaces addon solar panels with a new flexible solar laminate bonded to a polymer base that gives tiles the curved shape of regular terracotta. Have the navy tiles installed across the whole roof, or replace just a small section. Depending on how many you install, the tiles can cut your monthly utility bill in half. They can also produce 10 to 15 percent more energy than comparable solar panels, by virtue of a thin-film technology that deflects heat and converts lower levels of light—such as during dawn, dusk or very cloudy days—into electricity. n

most Expensive iphone Stuart Hughes has unveiled the world's most expensive cell phone, the $3.2-million iPhone 3GS Supreme. Featuring a 22K solid gold casing and a front bezel studded with 136 diamonds -- "rear logo has 53 flawless diamonds, front navigation button is home to a very rare diamond at 7.1 cts." It is reportedly commissioned by an Australian businessman. n

Dell mini 3 The Dell Mini 3i, the next logical extension of Dell's mobile products comes in the palm of your hand is available in Red Passion and Oiled Bronze colors, it will begin shipping by the end of November.

'muscle suit' for disables

microscope uses cell phone camera

n The 'Muscle Suit' developed by the Tokyo University of Science's Kobayashi laboratory caught many visitors by surprise at Tokyo International Robot Exhibition 2009 when a demonstrator in the suit lifted a 50kilogram weight easily. Its artificial rubber muscle can be contracted and relaxed using air pressure. As it allows humans to lift heavy things easily, the technology is expected to be helpful in assisting the physically disabled and the aged, or reducing the physical burden on factory workers engaged in heavy labor.

Future of Bluetooth headset

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Pillete, the new concept of Bluetooth headset is so tiny; it’s almost invisible to the eye when you are wearing it. So you don’t have to worry anymore about looking like Robocop when walking down the street with it, but you have to consider the possibility of people starting to think you’ve lost your marbles and you’re talking to yourself.

replacement of wood

We all know how handy a cell phone can be when we’re stranded on the side of the road or late for a meeting. And far from just making phone calls, cell phones let us take pictures, send text messages, and even watch movies. But now a UCLA engineer has come up with an entirely new way to use cell phones. He took a regular cell phone, around $10 worth of oﬀ-the-shelf parts, and software that he wrote himself to make the world’s first cell phone microscope. He hopes it can be used in remote locations to diagnose diseases when getting to a hospital for tests just isn’t possible. n

A research group at Stanford University is developing synthetic wood that they expect will be sturdy enough to build a house frame and pliable enough to carve. The team of engineers says the faux timber (bacteria-derived biodegradable plastic resin bound to hemp fibers) could not only replace dozens of construction materials, it decomposes in a landfill after a few weeks, emitting methane that can be used to make more synthetic wood.

man hole with multiple Functions n In Pakistan, we find Man holes without any lid on it but European designers Cheolyeon Jo and Youngsun Lee have found a use for Manhole lid, their invention known as Eco Sign is an intelligent lid which tells direction to the travelers. To use it you just have to apply pressure on one side of the Manhole lid, and it tells you how to get to the nearest subway or bus station and how far you’ll have to walk to reach them. The device is powered by rainwater, so it doesn’t use any of the city’s electricity.

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Turn off DEP and Play all Games in Vista n Data Execution Prevention (DEP) is known to spoil your mood by preventing any games from running on your system. All you have to do is to open Command.com in Administrator Mode and Type: bcdedit.exe /set {current} nx alwaysoﬀ If you want to turn it on later then use this command: bcdedit.exe /set {current} nx alwayson

Add items to the Send to Menu

n When you right click on any file, you will notice an option on the popup menu called "Send To". This allows you to interact or open the file with a variety of programs. You can also add your favorite programs to this list. All you have to do is follow these simple steps: 1. Type this Code in Run Window ”%APP DATA%\Microsoft\Win dows\SendTo” and press Ok. 2. The SendTo folder will open; just create a n What happen if your Firefox's bookmarks suddenly disappear? It is shortcut of the desired Program in this very frustrating and disappointing but don’t worry, here is the solution: folder and leave. follow the given steps to retrieve the lost bookmarks list: 3. Now Every time when you will Right Click n Go to your System Drive C:\ and navigate to the following path you will also find that program in SendTo "C:\Documents and Settings\your account name\Application option. Data\Mozilla\Firefox\Profiles\".

Recover Firefox Book Marks

n n

In Profiles folder, you will see a folder with random name and “.default” extension for example vo46dj79.default. Double click on vo46dj79.default folder and you will see another folder with name "bookmarkbackups". Here is actual place where Firefox store your bookmarks backup. Now copy the all latest bookmarks detail and go up one level then paste it. Here rename the file to "bookmarks.html" and now your bookmarks will be restored.

DVD ROM Tray won’t come out, Here is the solution All computer users once in their life experience this kind of problem when they press the eject button and DVD ROM Tray won’t come out. Most of IT users use a pin to manually take out the DVD ROM Tray. But this is not a permanent solution. The solution is simple, when this problem occur all you have to do is to shut down the computer and take out the Tray manually, then push it back in but hold it when it is about to close and pullout, do this pull-in and pull-out thing for 25 to 30 times and then restart your system. Your DVD ROM Tray will start to work again normally. n

Quick Windows Shut Down Sometimes, you want your computer to shut down after a specific time, for example after thirty minutes, first solution is that your get third party software. But the third party softwares sometimes come with viruses which are a threat to your computer. Here is a simple solution which will solve shut down problem in a very small step. n The first step to your one click shutdown shortcut button is to right-click on your desktop, now choose New then choose Shortcut. The Windows Shortcut Wizard will appear. In the box that appears, in the "location of shortcut area" type “shutdown -s –t nnnn” to shutdown. nnnn shows the time in seconds, for example if you want to shut down computer after 30 minutes then the formula is like this “30(min) x 60(secs)=1800(nnnn), so the shortcut code becomes “shutdown –s –t 1800” n For application override use “shutdown –f –t 1800” , this command will automatically close all applications and shut down the system. n

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