Type of Article: MacMinute Web Site

Asante today introduced three new PCMCIA Ethernet cards for PowerBooks. The FriendlyNET 10T and 10T/TN are 10 Mbps cards and sell for US$69 and $79, respectively. The FriendlyNET 10/100 is capable of up to 200 Mbps with full duplex, and sells for $75.

Mac users who wish to synchronize a PocketPC-based handheld with their Mac will soon be able to do so, thanks to a new device from Information Appliance Associations. As noted by MacUser UK, the company has yet to announce pricing or availability, but a form on its site allows prospective purchasers to register and receive more information when it becomes available, as well as $5 off the product when it ships.

Microsoft’s recent announcement that it will be bundling a powerful messaging solution with Windows XP — a move reminiscent of the company’s tactic during the browser wars — has some analysts reassessing their sales forecast upwards for the operating system. “Up until now, I saw no compelling reason for consumers to upgrade, or businesses for that matter, But with this new Microsoft announcement, I think that is going to give consumers a reason to upgrade to Windows XP.

ATI became the latest manufacturer today to offer a FireWire PCI card with its DV Wonder. While the US$49.95 card is billed a PC product and ships only with PC software, it should be compatible with Macs using Apple’s FireWire extensions.

Intel has developed a new transistor technology that’s 1,000 times faster than the transistors featured on today’s microprocessors. While not expected to debut in chips until 2007, the technology could deliver an enormous performance boost to processors.