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Tid-bits
12/2 - Skype has released a new beta that does video calling, so one can now not only talk for free over the Internet to anywhere in the world but can do video conferencing as well. To video call, one needs a webcam. Most any webcam should work, but Logitech and Creative produce webcams that have been tested with Skype. Packages come with headset and mic and are available from RadioShack and elsewhere. "The beta version of Skype 2.0 is available for people to download at www.skype.com".
Chip fabrication plants cost billions to build, but they also save billions. The reason is that smaller process technologies churn out a lot more chips than older, larger process technologies. Intel, for example, is in the process of converting its microprocessors over from a 90nm process technology to a 65 nm process technology. In doing so the company expects to "save between $1.5 and $2 billion over the option to keep the 90 nm process implemented".
The entire global semiconductor industry is experiencing healthy growth, but the foundry sector is expected to see double-digit growth. The primary reason? The "'killer application' that should lead the semiconductor industry growth is LCD TVs".
Microsoft continues to work hard on improving automatic updates without reboot in Windows Vista. Why is this so important? Because continuous updating is the future. In the future "there will be a constant flow of updates".
First Western Digital, now Seagate. Both Western Digital and Seagate have reported better earnings than anticipated. Seagate, for example, is experiencing "better-than-expected demand and product mix for desktop-class storage products".
Demand for jobs is up. The post-hurricanes clean-up and the pre-holiday season have conspired to propel "the Monster Employment Index to its highest level since its inception".