Category Archives: Technology

StarWind Enables Cloud Storage for IBM i System Line

Beverly, MA, April 06, 2024 — StarWind, a leading provider of hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI) for Enterprise ROBO, SMB, & Edge, introduces an affordable backup cloud storage for IBM i systems. Seamless integration with an existing tape backup infrastructure is achieved by emulating a tape library (VTL), the one IBM i knows how to deal with. StarWind VTL is a complementary, rather than competitive, solution, where the virtual tape provides an additional local backup copy for better resiliency and faster recovery, with an extra copy offloaded to a cost-effective public cloud. This air-gapped “extra” copy of the backup data, stored in an immutable cloud, serves one more purpose – insurance against ransomware. Amazon AWS, Google GCP, and Microsoft Azure are fully supported as backup destinations, including long term storage like AWS Glacier, Google & Azure Archive. In general, any S3-compatible cloud storage will work.

“Love it or hate it, but tapes are here to stay, and we’re dedicated to improving life with them. We’re thrilled to provide IBM i systems with a money-saving cloud storage they deserve. As of now more organizations can achieve greater cost efficiency, better resiliency to ransomware, more of flexibility, and scalability when it comes to their backup strategy,” said Artem Berman, co-founding partner at StarWind.

Over 40,000 companies in the U.S. alone continue to rely on IBM i systems to power critical operations. Various sectors such as finance, banking, healthcare, manufacturing, telecommunications, logistics, government, and others heavily depend on the non-stop data processing that IBM i systems provide. Traditionally, these environments relied on IBM Backup, Recovery, and Media Services (BRMS) for tape backup processing. Although tapes are rock-solid, deadly-reliable, and provide best bang for the buck, they often present limitations in backup and restore performance. Tapes are evolving over the time, but any StarWind-powered all-flash VTL is always faster in both backup and restore. Cost-efficiency is another consideration, as while tapes are inexpensive, archival object storage in the cloud is even more budget-friendly for long-term data retention. Air-gapped immutability is an important component of ransomware resiliency, a crucial part of a comprehensive ransomware prevention and recovery strategy.

“Algenol Biotech chose StarWind VTL because of its reasonable price and required functionality. It was easily integrated into the established backup and archival process of the company without any changes. In addition, StarWind VTL automated and secured offsite backup and archival by eliminating the human process, thereby determining the reliability of the backup process. StarWind VTL provided the much-needed backup solution for the control network of Algenol Biotech’s manufacturing plant, ensuring data protection and integrity,” said Tom Ziegler, Network Systems Administrator at Algenol Biotech.

The seamless integration of StarWind VTL into existing BRMS-centric backup infrastructures enables organizations to introduce a disk & flash-based backup tier, which significantly improves backup and, especially, restore performance. Additionally, the built-in cloud storage tier enables the replication of backup and archive data to Amazon AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure, Wasabi, Backblaze B2, and other cloud storage providers, allowing to cut down the long-term data retention costs. This approach not only boosts performance and cuts operational expenses but also capitalizes on existing hardware and backup processes, optimizing overall IT efficiency without duplicating efforts.

A.I. Radio Station Ownership for All

Miami, FL, April 05, 2024 –In today’s digital age, owning a radio station has often been reserved for those with deep pockets and extensive technical know-how. Traditional barriers such as startup funds, equipment costs, and the need for specialized training have deterred many aspiring broadcasters from pursuing their dreams. However, a groundbreaking new platform is poised to revolutionize the radio industry, democratizing ownership and putting the power of broadcasting into the hands of everyone: AI Radio Bot.

Gone are the days of prohibitive expenses and complex setups. With AI Radio Bot, launching a radio station is as simple as a few clicks. This innovative platform harnesses the capabilities of artificial intelligence to automate broadcasts, allowing users to effortlessly share their expertise and reach wider audiences.

At its core, AI Radio Bot is a fully featured online radio streaming server with the added bonus of video streaming capabilities. What sets it apart is its utilization of Deep Neural Net Text-to-Speech technology, enabling the platform to read text content aloud using a variety of customizable voices. From selecting the perfect voice to seamlessly integrating with Restful APIs and RSS services, AI Radio Bot offers unparalleled flexibility and ease of use.

But the innovation doesn’t stop there. AI Radio Bot goes beyond basic automation, offering users a suite of features to enhance their broadcasts. From mixing spoken text with professionally produced jingles and music to integrating prerecorded clips for advertising, the platform empowers users to create dynamic and engaging content with minimal effort.

The potential applications of AI Radio Bot are vast and varied. Podcasters can transform their shows into 24/7 radio stations, providing around-the-clock access to their content. Musicians can leverage the platform to increase exposure for their music, while bloggers can share their expertise through captivating broadcasts. Even companies can benefit by using their own radio stations to advertise products, services, and industry insights.

According to Igor Vishnevskiy and Stephen Jester, the inventors of AI Radio Bot, the mission is clear: to make AI radio accessible to everyone. By eliminating barriers to entry and simplifying the broadcasting process, the platform opens doors for aspiring broadcasters of all backgrounds.

“Our service will allow writers to run their own talk radio stations without spending thousands of dollars on professional equipment or specialized training,” Vishnevskiy explains.

With its user-friendly interface, powerful AI capabilities, and endless customization options, AI Radio Bot is poised to transform the way we think about radio broadcasting. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster, a budding musician, or a business looking to expand your reach, this revolutionary platform offers the tools you need to make your mark on the airwaves. Experience the future of online radio streaming with AI Radio Bot and unleash your broadcasting potential today.

Show Talk with Technology Experts

Allentown, PA, April 05, 2024 — The Manufacturers Resource Center (MRC) will host an Automation & Manufacturing Technology (AMT) Show on April 25, 2024, from 7:30 AM to noon, at the Delta Hotel by Marriott, Breinigsville, PA. After networking and breakfast, there will be speakers and presentations from 8:30 to 9:45 AM. Between 9:45 AM and noon, there will be floor demonstrations and the opportunity to speak with vendors. For more details and the current list of 23 vendors & technologies, visit the MRC website at www.mrcpa.org/events. Discover the future of manufacturing at our Automation & Manufacturing Technology Show where proven technology will be on display.

Vendors and Floor Demonstrations Include: Machine Vision, Cyber Security, Industrial Networks, Business Software Solutions, Augmented Reality, Data Collection and Analysis

“The future of manufacturing is automation and more efficient, high-tech, and innovative operational processes,” says Rich Hobbs, President & CEO of MRC. “This event is about taking business operations to the next level by using automation to support continuous improvement while attracting talent and using automation as a tool to capture the knowledge of the retiring workforce.”

MRC encourages entire business teams to explore and discover technologies that can help them solve difficult challenges. In addition to building relationships and connecting with other manufacturers, this event will allow manufacturers to explore industrial innovation and experience live technology demonstrations that solve problems.

Registration is on the MRC website and is needed to save seating. The fee is $50/person or $300 for a table of eight. (Meals & Beverages included) Seating for walk-ins cannot be guaranteed.

New VirtuAlarm Universal Alarm App, for Both iOS and Android

Kirkland, WA, April 05, 2024 –Kirkland, WA, during its recent dealer meeting, VirtuAlarm announced to partners and customers the deployment of its newest revised App for iOS and Android.

The App features VirtuAlarm’s proprietary false alarm reduction processing platform as well as remote camera viewing, DIY monitoring with authority connect, and remote arm disarm capability for multiple alarm systems.

The False Alarm Reduction Platform allows Alarm Dealers, IOT providers and end users multiple communication methods allowing remote confirmation or cancellation of any alarm event, prior to any monitoring center receiving the signal. When an alarm event is received by the platform, either by PSTN, IP, Cellular or even by email using their exclusive AlarMail® services, push notifications are sent to the end user’s App and to as many friends, family members, or employees as needed. At each step, any user receiving the notification can either cancel, hold, or confirm the alarm for immediate dispatch. The App allows the end user to place the alarm on hold, allowing time to provide investigation of the alarm cause, including using a video view option, prior to requesting cancellation or dispatch of the alarm. This entire process can take less than 15 seconds, based on the variable settings available. The new VirtuAlarm® App reduces alarm processing time based on pre-screening before dropping to any monitoring center, worldwide.

Blaze Group Nominated for Best in AI

Oakland, CA, April 04, 2024 –Blaze Group announced today that it has been nominated for Best in AI, Metaverse & Virtual – Business & Technology in the 28th Annual Webby Awards. Hailed as the “Internet’s highest honor” by The New York Times, The Webby Awards, presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS), is the leading international awards organization honoring excellence on the Internet. IADAS, which nominates and selects The Webby Award Winners, is comprised of Internet industry experts including Marian Croak, VP of Engineering – Responsible AI & Human Centered Technology, Google; Sarah Harden, CEO, Hello Sunshine; Tobe Nwigwe, Artist & Actor; Shigetaka Kurita, Artist & Father of Emojis; Severin Hacker, Cofounder & CTO, Duolingo; Law Roach, Image Architect; Yann LeCun, VP & Chief AI Scientist, Meta; Roxane Gay, Host, The Roxane Gay Agenda; Quinta Brunson, Writer, Director and Actor; Questlove, DJ and Producer; Todd Kaplan, Chief Marketing Officer, Pepsi Co; Ashley Murphy, VP Global Consumer Marketing, Rare Beauty; Nelly Mensah, VP of Digital Innovation, Global Head of Web3 and Metaverse, LVMH; Jim Habig, Vice President Marketing, LinkedIn; and Tonya Custis, Director of AI Research, Autodesk.

Blaze Group, Inc. is an AI-based startup that bridges the gap between education and personalization for Black women entrepreneurs. With an engaged audience of more than 110,000 entrepreneurs and partners across the globe, Blaze Group makes it easy, affordable, and enjoyable for early-stage founders to access AI business advisory.

“Nominees like Blaze Group are setting the standard for innovation and creativity on the Internet,” said Nick Borenstein, General Manager of The Webby Awards. “It is an incredible achievement to be selected among the best from the nearly 13,000 entries we received this year.”

“With Black women creating 42% of all net new women-owned businesses launched each day in the United States, space must be made to absorb this bulging segment of the economy,” says Blaze Group Founder Casey Ariel Thobias. “It is no longer a question of entrepreneurs keeping pace with the environment. To remain relevant, industries and solutions must keep pace with Black women entrepreneurs. Blaze Group understands this and we leverage research and intelligence to fuel cutting-edge AI business advisory solutions for Black women.”

As a nominee, Blaze Group is also eligible to win a Webby People’s Voice Award, which is voted online by fans across the globe. From now until April 18, Blaze Group fans can cast their votes at: vote.webbyawards.com/PublicVoting#/2024/ai-metaverse-virtual/general-virtual-experiences/business-technology

Winners will be announced on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, and honored in a star-studded show at Cipriani Wall Street. Winners will have an opportunity to deliver one of The Webby Awards’ famous 5-Word Speeches. Past 5-Word Speeches include: SZA’s “The Internet Scares Me. Thanks.” Steve Wilhite’s “It’s Pronounced ‘Jif’ not ‘Gif'” and NASA’s “Houston We Have A Webby.”

Software to Support New SEC Climate Disclosure Rules

Spokane, WA, April 04, 2024 — Geoprise, a maker of enterprise resources planning (ERP) software, today announced general availability of the world’s first-ever commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) ERP software supporting the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) climate rule, which was recently finalized on March 6, 2024.

The new rule requires U.S. public companies, and foreign companies doing business in the U.S., to report their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions so investors are better informed about climate risks. According to industry analyst Diginomica’s Brian Sommer (March 2024), “Traditional accounting and other business application software (e.g., ERP) was not designed for an ESG or climate accounting world. Bolt-on tools may have to suffice for the time being but more software innovation is needed now.” Responding to this need, Geoprise is the first information technology provider ever to publicly announce the availability of COTS ERP software for this purpose.

The software products which Geoprise is making available from today natively embed new capabilities within the existing GM-X™ Accounts Payable, Fixed Assets, General Ledger, Inventory, Product and Shipment subsystems that fully incorporate Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHGP) cross-sector guidance and tools for Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions to achieve full compliance with the new U.S. climate disclosure rules while substantially lowering the cost of compliance.

“Our new software capabilities for climate disclosure effortlessly collect operational data such as fuel deliveries, vehicle mileage, delivery weights and electricity consumption, and apply them to emission factors in a fully GHGP-compliant way to overcome well-known issues with direct measurement of GHG emissions arising from the expense and difficulty of accurately measuring exhaust gas concentrations and flow rates,” said Geoprise CEO Nelson Nones. “No other ERP application on the market today has our built-in abilities to flexibly maintain a database of emission factors and automatically apply them to operational data reflecting the daily business activities of reporting companies,” he said.

As just one example, companies can use the GHGP location-based reporting method to account for Scope 2 emissions arising from the consumption of electricity at their facilities throughout the world. According to the GHGP, these represent the largest sources of GHG emissions for many companies. To minimize compliance costs, the GM-X Accounts Payable subsystem automatically records both the quantities and monetary values of electricity purchases from utility bills and links those quantities to specific facilities within climate reporting scope. Those facilities, in turn, are already linked in the GM-X database to the specific emission factors for carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide within the regions where those facilities are located. This approach makes it no more difficult to account for and report GHG emissions than it is to account for and report financial results.

Today’s announcement is the latest in a series of firsts for Geoprise and its GM-X application suite. In early 2018, GM-X was the first ERP application in the world (CIO Review magazine, November 2018) to combine proven blockchain technology with strong encryption for securing information assets, and it remains the only such ERP application suite on the market today. Later that year, Geoprise was first to market with a responsive mobile-first GM-X Web user interface allowing the entire GM-X application suite to run end-to-end on mobile as well as desktop and laptop devices.

Astute observers will note that despite its track record of being first to market with proven ERP innovations, Geoprise has refrained from jumping onto the artificial intelligence (AI) bandwagon and is specifically not claiming that its new climate reporting capabilities derive from AI technology. “To prevent so-called ‘greenwashing’ the SEC says that reporting companies can be liable under Section 18 of the Exchange Act, or Section 11 of the Securities Act, for materially false or misleading statements in their climate disclosures,” Nones said. “The well-known tendency of generative AI to hallucinate make it imperative for ethical companies to mitigate such risks by abstaining from using AI when accounting for and reporting GHG emissions,” he added.

Nones also noted that although the new SEC rule has already been challenged in court, most observers believe that affected companies will still initiate preparations for compliance, and some companies already provide climate disclosures though not necessarily in a standard way. According to legal analysts, some companies will have to supplement or replace their existing ERP or accounting software to function at a level which supports compliance with the new rules. “The climate disclosure capabilities of our GM-X software are available now, giving affected companies plenty of runway to comfortably adapt their systems by the time the rules take effect,” he said.

Human-Edge.ai and Autimatic Partner to Empower People with Autism

London, United Kingdom, April 04, 2024 — Human-Edge.ai, a leading innovator in generative AI solutions, and Autimatic, a specialist in providing meaningful careers for people with autism, today announced a groundbreaking partnership and release of an AI-powered chatbot designed to help individuals with autism explore their skills and potential career paths. This initiative will launch on April 2, World Autism Day, to raise awareness and support for neurodiversity in the workplace.

The new chatbot leverages Human-Edge.ai’s expertise in natural language processing and generative AI to create a tailored and supportive experience for individuals with autism. The chatbot will:

Assess Skills and Interests: Provide interactive questionnaires and assessments to help individuals identify their unique strengths and passions.
Match Potential Job Opportunities: Utilize Autimatic’s extensive knowledge base of autism-friendly employers and roles to suggest suitable job matches.

“We’re committed to harnessing the power of AI to make a tangible difference in people’s lives,” said Mohamed Anis, CEO of Human-Edge.ai.

“Partnering with Autimatic, we can provide individuals with autism the tools and resources to unlock their full potential and find careers they truly thrive in.”

Here’s Why – https://www.human-edge.ai/post/neurodivergent

Quote from Geert Pauwels, CEO of Autimatic about the importance of this initiative and the potential impact on the lives of people with autism:

“This collaboration is a game-changer, empowering individuals with autism to discover meaningful careers that align with their skills and interests. We believe that AI can break down barriers and create a more inclusive future,” said Geert, CEO of Autimatic.

Strategic Technology Solutions Attains SOC 2 Type

Torrance, CA, April 03, 2024 –– Strategic Technology Solutions (STS), a firm specializing in delivering Managed IT, Cloud and Cybersecurity services to the legal sector, proudly announced today, for the fourth year in a row, its successful attainment of the SOC 2 Type II Cybersecurity Compliance. This achievement distinguishes STS as one of the few managed service providers (MSPs) supporting law firms that possess this advanced security credential.

The SOC 2 Type II Compliance is a globally acknowledged auditing standard developed to evaluate and report on the effectiveness of a service organization’s internal controls over a specified period. It focuses primarily on aspects such as security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy.

STS has consistently strived to adopt an ethical and responsible approach to its operations, ensuring its clients that their valuable and confidential content is safeguarded at the highest possible levels. James Waryck, the CEO and co-founder of STS, posed the question, “If we are not operating at a high level, why should our clients?” This statement underscores STS’ commitment to excellence and its dedication to protecting its clients.

STS, with being SOC 2 Type II Compliant, eliminates the “assumption-based” aspect of risk comprehension and provides a clear and complete understanding of the existing level of risk and exposure a firm has when using STS services. It also outlines the likelihood of a breach happening and how impactful the breach would be. STS applies this proactive approach to risk management to benefit Law Firms, underscoring STS’s commitment to its clients and their security.

Security Risk
The American Bar Association (ABA) reports that approximately 29% of law firms encountered a security breach in 2023, a slight increase from the 27% reported in 2022. Furthermore, some law firms experienced significant breaches in 2023, as per LegalTech News (LTN), resulting in the exposure of sensitive client and firm data. These incidents led to substantial ransom demands and class action lawsuits.

Third-party vendor risk is a genuine concern, and understanding the vendors you do business with is a critical aspect of a robust cybersecurity strategy. Law firms that invest in securing their IT environment and mitigating risk should also scrutinize the security practices of their third-party vendors to ensure alignment.

When an IT vendor lacks robust security controls, the law firm that relies on their services becomes vulnerable to supply-chain attacks. These attacks occur when a breach affecting a vendor or supplier cascades down to impact their clients.

Sam Sheth, CIO and co-founder of STS, raises a crucial question: “How will a Managed Service Provider (MSP) safeguard your law firm’s data, and do they have evidence demonstrating effective risk prevention?” Many IT providers and vendors claim compliance, but upon closer examination, they may not be directly compliant. Some base their security claims on using AWS or Azure-based environments, assuming that these cloud platforms’ security extends to their own operating systems and tools. However, this assumption is incorrect—the secure environment provided by AWS or Azure pertains to their infrastructure, not the specific tools used by MSPs or vendors for their business operations. Would you hire an attorney that didn’t pass the bar or visit an unlicensed doctor? The same concept applies when it comes to IT Security.

While the MSP industry is not currently mandated to be cybersecurity compliant, STS believes that pursuing such compliances is the right course of action. By voluntarily adhering to high standards, STS demonstrates its commitment to clients and their security.

STS, as an early innovator in the managed IT services industry, has taken a proactive approach by incorporating the Security Maturity Level Assessment (SMLA) process, methodology, and approach into its sales and onboarding procedures. Remarkably, few MSP’s —particularly those with a legal focus – have followed suit. By embracing the SMLA process, STS demonstrates its commitment to robust security practices and its dedication to safeguarding its clients’ valuable data.

Stringent Compliance Process
The SOC 2 Type II compliance indeed demands significant investment in terms of time, resources, and financial commitment. However, for the team at STS, this rigorous process holds immense importance. It serves as a powerful testament to their unwavering dedication in safeguarding both their own sensitive information and that of their clients.

STS Commitment to Security
At STS, cybersecurity isn’t an afterthought—it’s the bedrock. As an early innovator in the managed IT services industry leveraging the SMLA process, sets STS apart, especially within the legal vertical.

Here’s why it matters:
Experience and Expertise: Over several years, STS has achieved SOC 2 Type II compliance and honed its specialization in both cybersecurity and the legal industry. This dual expertise enables STS to focus sharply on safeguarding its clients’ interests.

Client Confidence:
Guiding law firms through their cybersecurity journey, STS provides assurance. Clients know that STS has walked the path, continues to invest, and understands the nuances of protecting “their house.”

Evidence-Driven Approach:
STS’s cybersecurity strategy isn’t based on assumptions. It assesses clients’ current cybersecurity maturity, identifies risks, establishes baselines, and charts a path forward. This approach draws from tangible evidence, guided by the Center for Internet Security (CIS) 18 and the National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) frameworks.

James Waryck, CEO and co-founder of STS, sums it up: “Vision backed by evidence – providing the right information to make educated and informed decisions.” STS’ commitment to security isn’t just a promise; it’s a proven reality.

Key Components of STS’s Cybersecurity Approach:
· Identifies gaps in cybersecurity programs across people, processes, and technology.
· Determines your current security maturity level base and desired level for your firm.
· Compares and contrasts your security maturity level with other firms facing similar challenges and risks.
· Recommends and prioritizes opportunities to improve your cybersecurity maturity level while reducing overall risk.

New 2.4″ IPS TFT LCD Displays at Newhaven Display

Elgin, IL, April 03, 2024 –Newhaven Display releases six new 2.4” size, In-Plane Switching (IPS) displays to their LCD TFT product line. With IPS technology, these displays are capable of truer color reproduction, better optical characteristics, and better image consistency from any viewing angle. There are two different brightness options to choose from: a standard brightness model and a high brightness model with up to 1200 nits that’s sunlight readable. In addition to brightness options, there are two touchscreen options including resistive and capacitive touch. The capacitive touchscreen gives a more premium appearance when using this display in applications and will elevate user experience with multi-touch capability. Additional benefits of the capacitive touch model include a built-in I2C interface and durable cover glass.

These 2.4” IPS displays provide additional design improvements including built-in EMI shielding and a top bezel frame for added protection. They offer user-selectable parallel or serial interface modes for flexibility within multiple project requirements. This allows the displays to be compatible with multiple development platforms such as Arduino development boards. This new product line was engineered with compatibility in mind. The new design has the same mechanical footprint as the TN display, making them compatible with existing overlays, enclosures, and other assembly components of the TN display, allowing easy integration into your existing projects. Engineered to redefine excellence in a compact form, this new line of 2.4” displays will elevate any project.

Features
· 2.4” IPS screens
· 240×320 pixel resolution
· Sunlight readable, high brightness option
· Full viewing angles
· 8-bit/16-bit parallel or 3-wire SPI interface
· Capacitive, resistive or no touchscreen
· Built-in ST7789VI Driver IC
· Built-in EMI Shielding
· Compatible with 2.4” TN Models

Product Part Numbers:
NHD-2.4-240320AF-CSXP-CTP
NHD-2.4-240320AF-CSXP-T
NHD-2.4-240320AF-CSXP
NHD-2.4-240320AF-CTXP-CTP
NHD-2.4-240320AF-CTXP-T
NHD-2.4-240320AF-CTXP

Study Comparing Windows 11 Pro Laptops with UFS and SSD Storage

Durham, NC, April 02, 2024 –When it’s time for schools and districts to purchase devices for students and staff, both budget and performance are top concerns. One way to cut on costs might be to configure devices with universal flash storage (UFS) instead of solid-state drives (SSDs), but how might this affect performance? To find out, PT put two sets of Windows 11 Pro laptops to the test: the Lenovo 100w Gen 4 and the Lenovo 300w Yoga Gen 4. In each pair, one laptop had a UFS card and the other had an SSD—otherwise, they were identical. When PT engineers timed how long it took the laptops to complete common education tasks, they found that the devices with UFS delivered performance on par with their SSD-equipped counterparts.

According to the report, “PT performance engineers hand-timed general productivity tasks—including boot times and Microsoft 365 app tasks—and tasks in CoSpaces Edu, Blender, and Labster. We saw that the Lenovo Gen 4 laptops with UFS storage delivered performance comparable to the same laptops with SSDs. Choosing UFS for education devices doesn’t have to mean a downgrade in performance: Our results indicate a consistent experience for learners and education professionals in a variety of scenarios, regardless of storage choice.”