Technologyhandbook 2016

th YEAR ANNIVERSARY

Feature | Technology

Pervasive impact Devices and accessories continue to bring in innovations and differentiation that address most conceivable user requirements.

The unstoppable momentum of technology innovations continues to widen the addressable market. There is no dearth of Innovations in both consumer and commercial segments. Innovation has accelerated and become pervasive across all product segments, from PC on a stick to Virtual Reality headsets, convertibles and detachables, 3d printers etc. Further, there is an abundance of product differentiation on display from different manufacturers and an exhaustive range of models.

The consumer’s desire for owning the best technology devices continues to grow and the demand has shifted towards newer device categories. The market for technology devices continues to broaden out with new categories coming in, ever so often.

On the other hand, some new categories such as smartphones are battling lackadaisical consumer interest and the demand hasn’t entirely gone through the roof although Smart watches are expected to eventually dominate, accounting for more than 50 per cent of wearable shipments by 2020, with revenue accelerating faster than sales at 78 per cent annually, according to Frost & Sullivan.

Consumers are perhaps waiting to see a new generation of smartwatches that offer better functionalities and apps and are also more independent from the smartphone, perhaps even as a complete replacement. Which reveals that although

Publisher: Vivek Sharma Managing Editor: R. Narayan Art Director: Faiz Ahmed

Contents Spotlight Pg 4

D-Link showcases Business and consumer solutions

Pg 8 Promise- Storage for vertical markets Pg 10 WD- Future in storage Pg 14 Linksys- Enabling better networks Pg 18 TP-Link -Next level of connectivity Pg 22

Asbis - Focusing on solutions

Showcase Pg 6 Dlink Pg 12 WD Pg 16 Linksys Pg 19 TP-Link Pg 20

Kaspersky Lab

Pg 20 Promise Pg 24 Elo

Business Development Manager: Mallika Rego Sr. Sales Manager: R. Subramanyan Business Development Executive: Christopher David Sales Coordinator: Smitha Jithesh

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P.O. Box: 121075, Montana Building 404, Zabeel Road, Near GPO, Karama, Dubai-UAE Tel: 04-3705022 Fax: 04-3706639 Disclaimer: While the publishers have made every attempt possible to get accurate information on published content in this handbook they cannot be held liable for any errors herein.

Feature | Technology

the average consumer is quite smitten by new technologies, he is also more discerning than in the past.

Technology market has always witnessed growth waves fueled by some large significant innovations in terms of product lines, right from the days when the first PC made its way to the market. Of course over time, the ASP (average selling price) of established Technology products drop, which necessitate some new product innovations that can command premium, at least in the short term.

The advent of VR (Virtual Reality) technologies can be seen a possible catalyst to fuel consumer purchases of VR enabled devices, from new generation desktops to smartphones and the rest of the paraphernalia which include accessories to go with these devices. Not discounting the sluggish market scenario in terms of consumer spending, there is reason to believe that a large number of consumers may be looking to refresh their PCs and products that are not up to speed in terms of computing,

4 | October 2016

storage and networking capabilities.

They may defer purchase decisions but not for long.

This raises the challenge of consumer awareness about what they need to choose because the range is exhaustive to choose from, in each product category. They need to choose specific products that are closely aligned to their expectations.

For instance, a consumer who wants to do a bit of PC gaming would be left disappointed if he does not choose a PC with the necessary configuration that can tackle the demands of heavy gaming software. Similarly, he may choose prematurely some products that he has little use for at the moment or for the foreseeable period.

And at times, the devices may have a technology that quickly becomes redundant as the next better version technology products arrive far too soon in the market.

While there is a lot of information available online that can help a consumer know in detail about different products, often when

he visits the outlets, he is confronted with the fact that some of the better deals currently running are on some other models. That can be a decisive point where the consumer ends up choosing a model he didn’t originally have in mind.

Helping consumers choose the right products according to their needs is a challenge a vendor is always faced with. How well is each vendor along with its partners executing this at the point of sale will decide how much satisfaction they are delivering to their customers.

On the other hand, the penetration of connected devices is at an all-time high and will continue to rise. The trade channel needs to head into areas where the demand is shifting. They need to adopt early trends and for instance if it is becoming clearer that VR applications will have utility in as many sectors, from education to hospitality etc, they should look at developing solutions around such new technologies and taking them to market.

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Spotlight | D-Link

D-Link is showcasing the company's latest smart products in the consumer and commercial sector at the 36th edition of GITEX Technology Week. Sakkeer Hussain, Director, Sales and Marketing, D-Link Middle East and Africa (MEA) discusses the company’s participation at GITEX

Showcasing Business and consumer solutions What is the key focus of your participation at this year’s GITEX? This year, we will be having two dedicated stands highlighting the two main segments we are catering to, the Consumer and the Business segment.

On the business solutions stand in Za’abeel Hall, Stand ZL-D6, we’ll be showcasing our 4K2k resolution/60frames per second HD cameras, our 10G Switches range, IP Telephony, Structured Cabling Solutions and our Alliance security and industrial networking for niche verticals such as the transport, oil and gas industry from MOXA and Gajshield.

On the consumer solutions stand in Za’abeel Hall, Stand ZL-B1, D-Link will provide visitors a handson experience of their latest range of high-speed Wi-Fi routers, their

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newest additions of Cloud Products, 4G/LTE fixed and portable routers, Home Automation devices and Cloudenabled IP cameras.

Are you launching any new products at the show?

In almost every product group, we are launching newer, upscale product versions. Most recent to D-Link’s portfolio is our “Home Connect” series with products using 802.11ah, Z-Wave and Zigbee-based technologies helping people to implement a complete smart home solution. The “Home Connect” category includes simple-to-use, app-enabled cloud products like power management devices, home sensors, cameras, Smoke/water detectors, door/ window alarms aimed at enhancing and enriching human life.

Another highlight of the show will be the new range of panoramic Cloud Cameras, the new wireless AC routers, our new series of L2/L3 Managed 10G switches and the new models covering IP Telephony, SMB Wireless, Structures Cabling.

Elaborate on your 4G range D-Link believes that everyone have different needs, so we created a diverse portfolio for 4G LTE devices.

We have 4G LTE routers for power users with mobile offices or as an Internet failover for places that cannot afford to have Internet down times. D-Link also have 4G LTE pocket WiFi for those that requires mobile internet access anytime and anywhere. For individuals that needs 4G LTE but doesn’t require a pocket WiFi since they only have one device

October 2016 | 5

Showcase | D-Link

to connect to, D-Link have 4G LTE dongles for these type of users.

Are dual band routers quite popular in the home segment because of the flexibility to connect new devices with the new wireless protocol support and at the same instance supporting the older protocol as wireless ’n’?

D-Link dual band routers and access points have always been popular.

Not only they support newer WiFi technology they also offer the fastest wireless connections. When you have dual band or triple band like some of D-Link high end routers, it is like having multiple wireless routers or

access points at your disposal. You can effectively distribute all your wireless devices on each bands, thus making your wireless network at home or office is as efficient and fast as possible.

Do you offer wireless dongles that can convert a device to faster speed wireless AC connectivity?

D-Link offers Wireless AC adapters that can simply upgrade any devices with old wireless technology to the latest and the fastest wireless technology available.

Discuss demand split between wireless AC single band and dual band routers? Are the wireless AC

range the fastest you offer?

D-Link devices with Wireless AC WiFi are dual-band devices, simply because 2.4GHz is the most used wireless band, a device with only 5GHz band will not be that useful to common consumers since all WiFi devices support 2.4GHz but not all supports 5Ghz. The beauty of having wireless AC dual band is you can enjoy the benefits of both bands.

Currently, 11ac is our fastest wireless technology out in the market. D-Link being a market leader always think of innovation so we are continuously trying and studying new wireless technology to give the consumers the best WiFi experience.

D-Link DWR-925 4G LTE VPN Router The D-Link DWR-925 4G LTE VPN Router with SIM card slot is an easy to deploy high-performance Virtual Private Network (VPN) router. The router comes with mobile connectivity allowing easy access to mobile broadband networks. The DWR-925 4G LTE VPN Router comes in a robust metal housing and lets users connect to a 3G/4G mobile connection with fast downlink speeds of up to 100 Mbps and uplink speeds up to 50 Mbps, giving users the speed they need for fast, responsive Internet access. The auto-failover feature automatically switches between mobile broadband and fixed-line broadband to ensure a user stays connected to the Internet in case one connection fails. The serial port of the DWR-925 can connect to 56K modem as a failover option or be configured as a console port if necessary, providing extra flexibility and versatility.

The DWR-925 can encrypt all wireless transmissions using WPA or WPA2 to protect the wireless network against unauthorised access. In addition, encryption technology also protects the network from online intruders and potential attacks over the Internet with dual-active firewall protection using Network Address Translation (NAT) and Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI).

6 | October 2016

Key features: • Wireless connectivity is covered by 802.11 b/g/n.

It has 2 x external LTE antennas and 2 x external Wi-Fi antennas • Lets users create a secure high-speed Virtual Private Network (VPN) for access over the Internet or a wired network connection.

• Supports IPsec, PPTP, L2TP, and GRE protocols in Server Mode, and also handles pass-through traffic • Advanced VPN configuration options can

be set using the comprehensive setup wizard and includes multiple encryption options, key management, negotiation modes, and VPN authentication support using an internal user database.

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Spotlight | Promise

Storage for vertical markets John van den Elzen, General Manger, Surveillance Business Unit, Promise Technology explains Storage market trends and Promise Technology’s key market strengths.

What are the major market trends in Storage business especially from the perspective of MEA region?

Promise Technology develops storage solutions for vertical markets, including the IoT, Cloud, IT, Rich Media, and Video Surveillance markets. A key trend in video surveillance, for example, is the incredible growth of data that needs to be stored. The total RAW capacity of enterprise storage used for video surveillance will increase by 48% this year. Markets like the MEA region are key drivers of this trend as they feature some of the most progressive legislation in terms of retention periods in video surveillance.

What is the status of rich media market in the MEA region?

Promise has a long history in developing high-performance storage solutions for the media and entertainment market, including our Pegasus line with Thunderbolt

Technology. There is a lot of really innovative work in the MEA region by some of the top creative professionals in the world and we are very excited to provide the storage that delivers the performance to make it all possible.

Please discuss the plans for the next one year?

We are looking forward to a really exciting 2017 that will start with Intersec Dubai where we’ll launch a complete new product line with a management server, analytics server and recording server. Plus, we’ll also introduce a new high-capacity surveillance storage block solution, which is ideal for deployments requiring a large centralised storage solution, offering an open-platform, simplicity, optimisation, and the most comprehensive partner ecosystem.

Which geographies in the MEA region are performing greatly?

There are really a wide range of

regions that have been very strong for Promise over the last year, especially when it comes to video surveillance.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Kuwait, Egypt and South Africa markets have all seen excellent growth.

What kind of impact are you experiencing in your business with regards to the growth of cloud computing market?

We are deeply involved in the cloud market on the consumer side with our Apollo personal cloud appliance and the enterprise with our VSkyCube hyper converged infrastructure. It’s a very fast moving market that offers exciting new ways for people to play, share and work.

Promise Vess NVRs certified with Milestone XProtect Promise Technology announced that its Vess A2330 and Vess A3340 network video recorders (NVRs) have been certified by Milestone Systems for use with the whole range of XProtect video management software (VMS) products. Both the Vess A2330 and A3340 easily supported the benchmark video data throughput levels as recommended by the Milestone Server and Storage Calculator. In maximum performance testing, it was further determined that the Vess A2330 and A3340 NVRs can support twice

8 | October 2016

the number of cameras as recommended by the calculator.

Promise was one of the first hardware vendors to be certified in 2014 by Milestone, the number one global VMS provider according to IHS Inc., and by qualifying the new Vess A2330 and A3340 NVRs with XProtect VMS it provides customers with more possibilities to solve their security challenges. The Milestone certification process tested the solution’s functionality, performance impact and usability.

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Spotlight | WD

Future in storage Along with great storage technology products, WD has also focused on steering partners towards profitable areas of growth such as the growing storage applications of NAS, surveillance and datacenters.

Khwaja Saifudin, Senior Sales Director, Middle East, Africa and India, WD elaborates on new trends in storage and some key focus areas for WD

Elaborate how the market for storage drives is evolving?

It is true that the market for storage solutions has changed from what it used to be years ago, with forays into wireless hard drives and personal cloud devices to cater to the growing need for storing data in a secure way.

We are also dealing with a new breed of consumer, one who is constantly on the move, always connected and has access to an array of smart devices. With these capabilities, they want the latest solutions to help them access their information at any time and any place. As digitization and connectivity, with all the data creation that they entail, become a mantra in the region, we expect to see even more demand for our unique portfolio of storage solutions, which are the perfect fit for a new generation of tech-savvy citizens.

Discuss demand for your private cloud series? Are these targeting the consumer segment? Which are the new models?

We are seeing a lot of growth and potential in the region when it comes to personal cloud devices. Having a personal cloud device, apart from allowing users to store tremendous amounts of data, also enables you

10 | October 2016

to access your data at any time and from any place, facilitating mobility.

Our latest cloud solutions are targeted at the modern-day consumer. These include the WD My Cloud Series and the WD My Cloud Pro Series.

With large cloud storage options available from device manufacturers, discuss the impact on demand for additional storage drives?

While the cloud is popular and gaining a lot of traction in the region and around the world, we do not foresee it having a marked impact on the traditional hard drive market.

Hard drive storage solutions still enjoy a lot of popularity in the market and will do so in the years to come. There is still a section of the populace whose storage needs are fulfilled with the traditional hard drive, and haven’t made the transition to the personal cloud yet.

You have an extensive NAS range of products – elaborate WD’s focus and new solutions in this segment.

How do the three different series – Expert, Business and Pro – differ?

Traditional drives are not designed for storage-heavy workloads and not

compatible with multi-drive systems.

In the event of an error, traditional desktop drives have a significant impact on downtime and productivity.

Productivity and efficiency are two prime factors critical for WD; hence WD NAS storage solutions are centred on prompt backups, high transfer rates, multitasking, and efficiently balancing performance, reliability and security in multiple drive environments. WD Red is a NASspecific drive, compatible with all NAS systems, high on performance and security. It can be connected with up to 8-bay NAS systems, ensuring easy access to data. Designed for round-the-clock operating environments, WD Red is optimized with NASware 3.0 technology which enhances integration, reliability and upgradeability.

With drives up to 8 TB, the WD Red offers a wide array of solutions for customers looking to build the biggest, best-performing NAS storage solution, and allows users to store all their data in one powerhouse unit. Furthermore, WD's exclusive NASware 3.0 improves a system's storage performance by increasing compatibility, integration and reliability.

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Showcase | WD

WD Blue and WD Green SSDs unveiled Western Digital has announced the launch of WD Blue and WD Green SSDs, the first WD-branded SATA client SSDs, designed for building PC systems and upgrades through the reseller channel market.

WD Blue SSD WD Blue SSD is optimized for multitasking, creating the ability to run resource-heavy applications simultaneously, without experiencing system slowdown. Perfect in either a notebook or desktop PC, WD Blue SSDs are available in 250GB, 500GB, and 1TB capacities, and in both 2.5-inch/7mm case or M.2 2280 form factors. WD Blue boasts sequential read and write times at 540MB/s and 500MB/s for the 250 GB drive and 545MB/s and 525MB/s for the 500 GB and 1TB drive, with endurance times at 100 TBW (250 GB), 200 TBW (500 GB) and 400 TBW (1TB).

WD redesigns My Passport and My Book hard drives WD has introduced modern and innovative redesigns of its My Passport, My Passport for Mac, and My Book hard drive lines, which have been highly recognized leading sellers for more than a decade. In partnership with fuseproject, an award-winning industrial design and branding firm, the reimagined products were built with the customer in mind. Developed to help make a connection between the device and user, the new drives also include password protection and hardware encryption so customers will love their hard drive as much as they cherish the content stored on it.

As part of the reimagined design, the My Passport drives will come in six vivid colors – Black, Yellow, Red, White, Orange and Blue – while still providing reliable portable storage that perfectly complements an on-the-go lifestyle.

The My Passport for Mac drive is available in a stylish Black color. The trusted desktop storage device, My Book, combines personal style with a massive amount of storage space, up to 8 TB, so users can keep their photos, videos, music, and documents. Each storage device comes with an automatic backup solution for a seamless, userfriendly process, as well as password protection to keep your precious data safe.

WD Green SDD WD Green SSD is built for customers looking for affordable performance, and is a great option for the first-time SSD user. Available in 120GB and 240B capacities, and in both 2.5-inch/7mm case or M.2 2280 form factors, WD Green SSDs provide an ultra-low power-draw so you can use your PC for longer between battery charges. WD Green boasts sequential read and write times at 540MB/s and 405MB/s and endurance at 40TBW for 120GB drive and 80TBW for 240GB drive. WD Green SSDs will be available later this quarter to select regions and customers.

12 | October 2016

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Spotlight | Linksys

Discuss new products launches or showcase at GITEX? Linksys is proud to launch the next chapter in the WRT story with the WRT3200ACM. Wi-Fi innovations include Next Gen AC (802.11ac Wave 2), including MU-MIMO and 160 MHz channel width on all three spatial streams of the 5 GHz band. This enables a maximum 5 GHz band throughput of up to 2.6 Gbps, which is the fastest available in the consumer market.

Adding the 2.4 GHz band, the product supports up to 3.2 Gbps in combined Wi-Fi throughput making it the fastest dual-band router available today.

WRT3200 is the best performing routers in the open source category and is targeted for prosumers that allow further network customization.

These routers are also renowned among power gamers and enthusiasts as an ultimate product solution boosting the gaming experience.

What will be the focus of your participation at this year’s GITEX? We have been supporting GITEX for several years as we believe it is an essential platform to engage with our existing channel partner and customers.

It is also a platform to showcase our product portfolio, a sneak preview in the latest end to end technology innovation and product roadmap.

This GITEX, Linksys will showcase its business class access point to include LAPAC 2600 for the first time in the Middle East.

We will also be launching the next chapter in the WRT story with the launch of the WRT3200ACM router.

We will also be showcasing our entire range of MAX STREAM products with live demos.

How has the business on the consumer and SMB fronts grown?

Holding onto the position of an

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Amanulla Khan, Managing Director, Linksys, Middle East, Turkey & Africa elaborates on the new launches from Linksys at GITEX 2016

Enabling better networks industry leader in networking, Linksys continues to invest in enhancing the product portfolio, bringing technology innovation to the marketplace, making it easier for business to deploy and manage the network and thereby helping them to improve efficiency and reduce cost.

Since the launch, Linksys has become one of the leading SMB vendors with a growing number of SMBs adopting the Linksys’ solutions.

We have seen higher double digit growth year on year growth exceeding the market average.

We continue to lead in the home networking market through technology and product innovations.

Our recent launch of the MAX-Stream EA9500 has delivery world-class performance and has become fast selling router in its category.

Our channel partners are the core of our business and we work very closely with them to provide them

with necessary sales tools, resources, and support to grow their business and in turn grow our own.

Apart from routers, discuss the demand for the other products in your networking range?

Linksys has observed a robust demand for range extenders as users want to expand the range of their home network allowing for more devices to be connected and for seamless roaming.

Range extenders provide uninterrupted connectivity around the home with Room-to-Room Wi-Fi. Linksys’ range extender features Spot Finder Technology that shows users where to place the range extender using a mobile device for optimal performance. Most recent launch in range extender is the Linksys MAXSTREAM AC1900+ MU-MIMO Wi-Fi Range Extender with Room-to-Room Wi-Fi (RE7000).

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Showcase | Linksys Linksys WRT3200ACM MU-MIMO Gigabit Wi-Fi Router Add enterprise-grade Wi-Fi to your home with the Linksys WRT3200ACM MU-MIMO Gigabit Wi-Fi Router.

Equipped with Tri-Stream 160 and MUMIMO technology, this Wi-Fi router can deliver blazing-fast Wi-Fi performance to multiple devices simultaneously.

This dramatically expands the router's speeds, so you’ll enjoy high-speed, responsive performance even when your home Wi-Fi is under heavy usage.

The router's versatile range of ports can connect to eSATA and USB hard drives, network printers, flash drives, and more. And thanks to the open source firmware, advanced users can customize their router with OpenWrt and DD-WRT to suit their needs. Doubles bandwidth from 80 MHz to 160 MHz on all spatial streams.

Key features: •

•

•

•

•

MU-MIMO Wireless-AC technology for simultaneously

streaming and gaming on multiple devices.

SIMULTANEOUS DUAL BAND (2.4 + 5 GHZ) -operates on either band to help avoid interference.

Share files and add external storage across your network with the USB 3.0 port. USB 3.0 offers enhanced speeds over 2.0.

Transfer data 10x faster than Fast Ethernet, ensuring high-speed connectivity for wired devices.

Monitor and control your home network from anywhere through the Linksys Smart Wi-Fi website or mobile app.

LAPAC2600 Access Point The LAPAC2600 Access Point leverages the latest Wireless-AC technology to ensure faster Wi-Fi speeds and increased productivity for your entire office. The access point features dual wireless bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) and delivers combined speeds of up to 2.53 Gbps to support high-bandwidth activities such as video conferencing and cloud storage syncing.

Featuring support for 802.11r and 802.11k standards, the LAPAC2600 Access Point allows 802.11r-enabled client devices to roam seamlessly between access points. Your employees

16 | October 2016

will be able to move freely across the office while conducting VoIP or video calls--without any interruptions.

The LAPAC2600 Access Point excels as a standalone access point and as a component of a larger wireless distribution system (WDS).

It can also be used as a workgroup bridge to extend the range of your wireless coverage.

Thanks to its PoE+ (Power over Ethernet Plus) capabilities, the LAPAC2600 Access Point can draw both power and data from a single Ethernet cable. There is no need for a separate power adapter or nearby electrical outlet: simply connect the LAPAC2600 to a PoE-enabled switch, and the access point can function using just one Ethernet cable.

Key features: • WAVE 2 MU-MIMO latest Wireless-AC technology for simultaneous Wi- Fi throughput in high density environments.

• Captive portal supports secure and customized guest Wi-Fi access that can be used at many Wi-Fi hotspots to control wireless access in the area.

• Extends wired and wireless range with three modes: traditional access point, wireless distribution system (WDS), or wireless bridge.

• Integrated 802.3at PoE+ capability eliminates external adapters and facilitate optimal placement.

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Spotlight | TP-LINK

Are there going to be several new launches at GITEX across different product lines?

We are introducing several solutions.

These include Business solutions for small and medium companies targeting mainly education, surveillance, health and hospitality sectors as we do see the future of any economy is through SMB and startup companies so we need to be part and support the economies of the regional countries . Will be showcasing the Smarthome solution range which includes Smart switch, smart bulb, motion sensors etc as well as Smarthome applications and the smarthome platform.

In smartphones, we are exhibiting new models like Neffos X1 and Neffos X1 max. We are introducing the latest technology in Soho market like Talon AD 7200 and AC 5400 and including new range extenders based on AC technology as well as MiFi 4G mobile routers Discuss consumer acceptance and demand for high speed routers?

New demanding applications create the need for more powerful technology that can handle extra users at the same time without impacting the speed of the network or any interruption. It is not only about internet access but also about sharing files efficiently and timely.

New technologies like AD and AC are available at higher prices compared to the basic to average routers. For example, the Talon AD 7200 price is around 2199 AED which is like the price for a TV or a premium smartphone.

However, we have been astonished with the high demands for these two models AD7200 and AC 5400, which are moving very well in the market.

Discuss trends in the soho market over the year- has the demand

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Networking solutions vendor TP-Link Technologies is commemorating the company's 20th anniversary this year and is set to make further inroads with several new innovations.

Dia Hamdan, Regional Marketing Manager MEA at TP-Link discusses the company’s focus

Next level of connectivity remained stable/ grown?

For soho , we are seeing more demands on the high end models , growth in demand for range extenders and the Mifi 3G/4G mobile routers in the market .

Elaborate on your success across the GCC market in terms of channel and retail reach?

Our successful story began with providing the customer with right products, highest quality and best after sales support. Then with our strong distributors and partners we were able to reach to every single corner in the market. Then, with our 2400 R&D engineers across our 5 R&D offices, who were innovative to bring the new technologies to the market before anyone else was a great help in our success.

Discuss the new branding and the message as well as the new

positioning?

TP-Link as a band has kept a lowprofile for long but in nearly two decades it has become the world’s top brand in the wifi networking market without being noticed much.

TP-Link believes that technology should be based on human needs.

It should get us closer to those who mean a lot to us in a more natural way. The technology is far more than the technology itself. This is what we want to say in our new branding that we are Close to you. It’s a new era of TP-Link where in the next 3 years we will be a group of companies under the umbrella of TP-Link.

We will have Networking ( SMB , Soho ) Neffos ( Mobile ) , Smartaccessories , IoT ( Smarthome ) . So the new branding came to announce the whole change in TP-Link from being product centric approach company to be a customer centric company.

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Showcase | TP-LINK

AC5400 Wireless Tri-Band Gigabit Router Archer C5400, the AC5400 Wireless Tri-Band Gigabit Router provides unprecedented speed and stability. The 802.11ac tri-band Wi-Fi delivers speeds of up to 5400Mbps, including 1000Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 2167Mbps on each of the two 5GHz bands. This is possible due to the incorporation of advanced hardware and a variety of groundbreaking features, including 4-Stream, NitroQAM, MU-MIMO, Beamforming, and Smart Connect Technologies. With so much speed and so many dynamic connections, The Archer C5400 is sure to take your online experience to an entirely new level.

Key features: • With the latest 802.11ac wireless technology, the Archer C5400 delivers tri-band speeds of up to 5400Mbps.

• Three wireless channels transmit and receive data simultaneously and the on the 2.4GHz band as well two distinct 5GHz bands, which are significantly faster and more stable.

• 4-Stream Technology further boosts speeds by establishing up to four data streams on each wireless band and stabilizing wireless communications on each.

• The addition of MU-MIMO technology also helps to increase speed by allowing the router to serve multiple devices at the same time, which makes your connections up to three times faster and allows you to enjoy streaming content on multiple devices at the same time.

M7650 4G LTE-Advanced Mobile Wi-Fi device The M7650 is TP-Link’s latest 4G LTE-Advanced Mobile Wi-Fi device. When the future arrives, you will be ready thanks to the advanced Cat11 LTE technology.

With download speeds as high as 600Mbps and the ability to share your connection with up to 32 wireless devices, the M7650 is sure to dramatically enhance your mobile Wi-Fi experience. Now you can enjoy streaming HD entertainment and unparalleled mobile productivity, thanks to a device that fits conveniently in your pocket.

Advanced mobile connectivity guarantees that you will be capable of taking full advantage of your carrier’s data plan, now and well into the future.

The Cat11 standard supports mobile download speeds of up to 600Mbps, which is almost 6X faster than the standard LTE connections that are offered today.

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Key features: • Cat11 LTE technology supports download speeds of up to 600Mbps • Dual-Band Wi-Fi speeds of up to 300Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 867Mpbs on the 5GHz band • Simultaneous connections for up to 32 Wi-Fi devices • 1.44-inch display provides a wealth of useful status information • 3000mAh battery for reliable all-day use • Easy management with the tpMiFi App • Micro-SD card slot supports up to 32GB of additional storage

October 2016 | 19

Showcase Kaspersky Internet Security – multi-device

Kaspersky Lab has presented the new version of its flagship security solution Kaspersky Internet Security – multi-device, which provide users with additional opportunities to manage their Internet protection and to ensure their data safety.

Kaspersky Internet Security – multi-device are security solutions for the whole family; they protect Windows, Mac, and Android users against malware, dangerous sites, online tracking, fraud and money theft.

This year Kaspersky Lab products for Windows have integrated several new functions.

Now users can protect their data from being intercepted during an unsafe Internet connection with the help of Secure Connection. In addition, they can patch potential "holes" in their device security with Software Updater and Software Cleaner.

NETGEAR - Orbi WiFi System

The Router is the heart of the Orbi WiFi System.

It covers up to 2,000 square feet with highperformance AC3000 WiFi and easily expands as your WiFi needs grow. As WiFi needs increase, just add-on to your existing Orbi WiFi System with an Orbi Satellite.

Orbi can grow as you need it with seamless connectivity between devices and Orbi units.

Orbi’s Tri-band WiFi System allows your devices to move between bands and other Orbi units without needing to reconnect. Unlike regular range extenders that provide two different WiFI networks, Orbi provides a single WiFi network for your entire house. You can connect to one WiFi network, and Orbi takes care of the rest to ensure that you have the fastest possible connection to the Internet.

Each satellite adds an additional 2,000 square feet with high-performance AC3000 WiFi. It takes just two Orbi units to cover up to 4,000 square foot homes with high-performance AC3000 tri-band WiFi. Key features: • Take WiFi devices from room to room with seamless coverage • Orbi uses tri-band WiFi to keep your Internet running at maximum speeds, no matter how many devices connect.

• With simple setup from your mobile device, your secure WiFi network is ready in just minutes.

• Orbi dynamically optimizes your connections for you without having to reconnect.

Key features: • • • • • • •

Protects your devices against today’s threats Secures PCs, Mac computers & Android devices Defends your privacy & personal information Boosts security for online shopping & banking Safeguards kids – Parental Control on PC & Mac Lets devices perform – as they’re designed to Simplifies security – via easy, online control

20 | October 2016

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Supercharge your system with the reliable SSDs from WDÂŽ.

INTRODUCING THE NEW

WD Blue SSD. TM

Optimized for multitasking with high-end computing, the new WD Blue SSDs provide superior performance and leading edge reliability. With extensive compatibility testing and form factors to accommodate most computers, a WD Blue SSD lets you confidently upgrade your storage.

WD, the WD logo and WD Blue registered trademarks or trademarks of Western Digital Corporation or its affiliates in the U.S. and/or other countries. Other marks may be mentioned herein that belong to other companies. Picture shown may vary from actual product.

Product specifications subject to change without notice. See support.wdc.com for limited warranty terms and conditions. Š 2016 Western Digital Corporation or its affiliates.

Available from

Spotlight | ASBIS

Focusing on solutions Hesham Tantawi, Vice President of ASBIS Middle East, a leading distributor in the region discuses the company’s Intel based solution

Please elaborate the range of solutions from Intel you distribute across consumer to commercial product lines We distribute components, server solutions, software for softwaredefined data center, NUC PC, SSDs and PC Sticks.

What are the server solutions from Intel for SMB and what are the advantages they offer for SMB customers?

Server solutions combined and paired with cloud-based services help offer a winning combination for small business. Pre-configured, fullyvalidated SMB Server blocks will help accelerate time to market with server solutions optimized for the needs of small and medium businesses.

What demand do you see in the SMB segment?

We see a demand for about 20-25 Servers every month, and 200-300 units of NUC PC

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As a distributor, are you focusing more on SMB segment solutions or do you also offer enterprise solutions form vendors including Intel?

We are focusing on SMB and Enterprise both, offering big data, storage, and cloud environments that need maximum product flexibility built in, including maximum compute, memory, and I/O capacity.

Discuss if you are adding more partners that focus on selling SMB grade solutions in the region?

Yes we are tapping more customers/ resellers; now many more SMBs and partners have crossed the chasm of recognizing the value of solutions to their business How are you driving awareness of channel partners around these SMB solutions including from Intel? What activities have you done or plan to do?

There is a lot interaction with the

channel through various platform.

There is a lot of communication through mails and then there are one to one meetings as well as seminars and get togethers at festivals.

The market conditions have been tough for the channel- discuss if they are responding well to these challenges and focusing more on value solutions?

We took significant steps in helping channel focus on value solutions to fulfil their potential and by developing local markets, thereby assisting them to deal with the tough business climate. We have continued to expand and transform ASBIS solutions business, adding a number of new solutions customers in 2016, as well as investing to build a value solutions distribution business in new territories. We also took steps to help regional solutions partners to manage difficult economic conditions, by developing local markets and services capabilities.

Technology HandBook

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Spotlight | Trigon

Staying upbeat Arun Chawla, CEO of Trigon, distributor for Elo touch systems in the region, elaborates on market trends Is the market showing growth?

The Middle East ICT market has started showing positive signs of growth. Further, Q4 is traditionally a good quarter to generate business for all segments of the market and we are seeing better demand.

What are trends that are influencing in IT distribution business in the region?

Mobility, Cloud, Digital Signage, Health related wearable devices look like potential growth areas. We are looking to grow in such categories.

How do you look at the next one year in terms of objectives of focus?

We have continued to hold a steady pace of growth and consolidation. The focus will be to continue doing so by focusing and growing our B2B, retail & regional Businesses.

Trigon has vertical specific solutions such as for Healthcare and advertising. How are these verticals

performing for Trigon's overall growth?

These segments have contributed more to our overall kitty than what we forecasted. It goes to show we are focusing on the right areas and anticipate that hope it only gets better from here.

Which market territories in the region have fared best?

None of the markets have disappointed.

We are delighted that our overall regional business has not shown any negative growth and results are encouraging. We will continue to keep our confidence upbeat.

How is digital signage business evolving in the region?

The digital signage market in the region is expanding and we see this as a great opportunity to tap into. Overall, the Large Format Display Business has grown beyond expectations and likely to show similar growth rates in the near future.

What are new business opportunities now existing for distributors of MEA region?

I believe distribution landscape continues to shift towards new innovative solutions. Vertical segments like Retail, Education, Healthcare & Hospitality are key segments and our focus will be around solutions addressing these.

What are the main drivers of Trigon's Business?

We have always been strong in retail and this will be a strong focus ahead.

Further, we have grown our B2B portfolio and will also consolidate our business regionally.

Elo unveils large Tablet Touchscreen Form Factor Elo, a global supplier of touchscreen solutions, has announced the availability of the I-Series for Windows fully integrated touchscreen computer. Available in 15.6inch and 21.5-inch widescreen displays with a mere 1.5inch depth, the rugged I-Series for Windows computer’s large tablet form factor provides a fully integrated platform for public-facing interactive applications in retail, hospitality, gaming, corporate and medical environments. Integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and an embedded web cam work seamlessly with existing I-Series universal snap-in peripherals (EMV, NFC/ RFID reader, barcode reader, MSR, fingerprint scanner) and mounting options to create a versatile interactive

24 | October 2016

display solution. Specifically designed for demanding environments, the integrated system meets EN62262 IK06 & UL60950 ball drop impact protection and is backed by a three-year warranty extendable up to five years.

The I-Series for Windows features Elo’s industryleading TouchPro PCAP technology that provides a 10-touch interactive experience with edge-to-edge glass design.

Technology HandBook

Showcase Xerox WorkCentre 3025 The WorkCentre 3025 Multifunction Printer was developed with individual users in mind. Set up is quick, everyday use is simple, and printing performance is fast. And the WorkCentre 3025 extends office productivity by using one reliable machine to print, copy, scan and fax, all at an affordable price.

WorkCentre 3025, with one of the smallest footprints in its class, saves space and reduces energy consumption and supply costs via consolidation of multiple office device functions.

The Xerox WorkCentre 3025 multifunction printer consolidates four officecritical functions into one device with copying, scanning, faxing and printing. Connect from anywhere in the office with the ultra-compact Wi-Fi enabled WorkCentre 3025. Easy navigation of device settings and functions is facilitated by the intuitive LCD front panel.

Key features: • Process multiple-page copy, scan or fax jobs quickly on media sizes ranging from 5.8 x 5.8 in. to 8.5 x 14 in. / 148 x 148 mm to 216 x 356 mm using the 40-sheet Automatic Document Feeder.

• Scan your documents in colour or greyscale at up to 600 x 600 dpi resolution in PDF, JPEG or TIFF file formats.

• Copy features include collation, ID card copy, N-up, automatic background suppression and photo mode.

• The WorkCentre 3025 includes a variety of industry-standard features including 33.6 Kbps faxing with MH / MR / MMR/JBIG compression.

Promise - Vess A3340 Vess NVR server and storage appliances are custom built to offer the highest levels of performance for IP video surveillance. Promise is active in all of the key video surveillance segments and is able to provide a solution for deployments of any size.

26 | October 2016

Key features: • • •

• • • • •

Ideal for mid-sized video surveillance installations.

Reliable, cost-effective and easy to deploy and maintain.

Powerful solution that enables it to easily handle the intensive demands of the latest VMS and analytics.

Perfect for up to 80 IP cameras Out of the box solution 3 year warranty – can extend to 5 years 2U 8-bay rackmount chassis Ideal for banks, casinos, prisons, schools, transportation, city surveillance, public facilities, government

Technology HandBook

Do All Your Networking From Inside A Wall Socket

DAP-1850AC Wireless AC750 Dual Band Concurrent PoE Access Point

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It has 1 x Gigabit LAN port and 1 x RJ-11 Telephone port. It delivers reliable, high speed wireless performance using the latest 802.11ac standard. The DAP-1850AC Access Point requires a single Power over Ethernet (PoE) cable drop, reducing cabling, switch ports, and power sourcing equipment.

The DAP-1850AC is also an AP controller which can monitor the status and control 6 Access Points at the same time. The master device will scan slave access points automatically. No complicated configuration for users to monitor the status from the master controller.

RJ11 Telephone Port RJ45 Gigabit Port

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Enjoy high-performance wireless connectivity Dualband concurrent wireless AC up to 750Mbps Power connectivity via Ethernet port Network Management System Master AP Controller can control up to 6 devices at the same time

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