Technology Vault - NewsBytes
Wednesday 30 April, 2003
Codename: Dashboard Public Beta version 1.1 release by @ 8:43 pm
Newsbytes is pleased to be the first news site to announce that SNP software's Codename: Dashboard Public Beta version 1.1 is about to be released within the next 24hrs. You will be amazed at some of the new features in this build.
Danny Smurf has opened up his beta testers forums for public view as Codename: Dashboard public beta is about to be released. Danny says it will be released within 24hrs.
I have been beta testing this new version for Danny and your in for some nice new features. This release is far ahead of schedule but the program has gone so well that Danny felt fit to release this version early.
Head on over to SNPSoftware's Website and be one of the first to download this little wonder. As a special suprise, here is a screenshot of a previous 1.1 beta.
Codename: Dashboard 1.1 (previous beta image)
As you can see you get some nice features from a Quick launch of your favourite programs, new XP start menu (not shown), calculator, slideshow (not shown), New News Agrigator, Drive Watcher, Note Manager and many many more features.
You will need the original .NET Framework for Codename: Dashboard 1.1 to work. If you need help with this version, pop over to Danny's forums HERE
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3D Mark 03 Patch by @ 8:20 pm
FutureMark have released a patch for 3D Mark 03. The patch brings 3D Mark up to version Build 320.
The patch is available from a host of alternative download sites HERE
FutureMark says:
Key technical points:
- Now supports Microsoft DirectX 9.0a.
- Professional version includes customization tools for different skins.
- Anti-Aliasing (FSAA) and full frame pixel shader post-processing can now be used simultaneously. (NOTE: DirectX 9.0a runtime must be installed for this functionality).
New Features:
- Added appropriate tools for creating custom skins for the 3DMark03 user interface.
- Added a new benchmarking option which forces PixelShader 1.1 code path in game tests 2 and 3.
- "Submit Saved Result" feature enabled in 3DMark03 Free Version.
- 2 new command lines added: "fixedfps" and "disableopt".
Fixes & Updates:
- CPU & VPU/GPU MHz detection functionality updated.
- Installation issue solved.
- Fixed all reported issues with results in Excel.
- Fixed ImageQuality Test issues.
- Updated System Info.
- Improved driver detection.
- XML issues solved.
- All other reported & identified problems and bugs in 3DMark03 have been solved.
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Saturday 26 April, 2003
PSP8...final beta release. by bluetracker @ 10:01 pm
Beta7 is the final public Beta build.
Which means that, though Jasc are working to resolve some remaining issues, the overall quality and performance of this build are close to what you can expect of the released form of PSP.
The in-built expiry date in these Beta builds means you have until July 1, 2003 to 'play with your new toy', after which the program will cease to function.
Beta7... The release notes
As always, JASC have provided concise release notes with this final build, andyou are advised to read the release notes before commencing the use of the program.
In all, 22 'problems' found in previous builds have been fixed, but there remains several 'Open issues' which undoubtedly will be fixed before the retail version is let loose on the open market.
Note....Beta 7 can load workspace files saved by Betas 5 or 6, but will not read any older workspaces.
Since beta 7 is only a week newer than beta 6, the scope of changes is relatively minor.
Known Major Issues still to be resolved
1.In EXIF data, exposure times over 1 second are not reported properly.
2. The sequence of straighten, draw crop box, undo will crash PSP.
3. Intermittently, the program will hang in the "modify feather" dialog.
4. Text with a strikethrough does not render properly.
5. When rotating a single raster layer, the layer rotates around the center of the canvas rather than the
center of the layer.
6. Undoing the deletion of an alpha channel does not properly restore the alpha channel.
One bug to watch out for
There is one semi-addressed issue that is worrying Jasc, they state that "The program will no longer crash if the mouse cursor is over the materials palette while the program starts up".
Apparently this was/is an intermittent bug that had been reported to them and JASC have not yet managed to repeat it to their satisfaction. They ask that if you can recreate it in Beta7 that you report it to them immediately.
You can download this final beta...HERE, ...a whopping 53.54MB file which will take an estimated 2hrs+ on a 56k dial-up connection, but IMHO well worth the wait!
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AdAware Update by bluetracker @ 4:54 pm
Lavasoft have release an updated reference file for their Spyware/scumware detection and cleaning utility AdAware6
Details...
Build OR138-26/04/03
Download from within the program itself or surf along to the Lavasoft website!
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Hack Attack! by bluetracker @ 3:44 pm
Hacker defaces sites and/or deletes content!
In an article published by SecurityNewsPortalwe are informed that an attacker stole the passwords of websites hosted on Bargainhost, one of which has lost its e-mails, contacts and forum messages for the last seven months.
Since the attack, carried out last week, Bargainhost has been trying to cope with this problem. The backups of clients' websites have had to be modified and the company is manually recreating the accounts of over 1,000 users.
The company currently hosts around 5,000 websites. If you are one of the unfortunate 1500 who have had their sites defaced or corrupted by the attacker, James Innes (Technology Manager at Bargainhost) has advised clients to "change their passwords."
Cold comfort indeed which begs the question regarding server security and the level of protection afforded to customers who pay to use their hosting service!
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Friday 25 April, 2003
Microsoft admit to problems with Q811493 by @ 10:19 pm
Microsoft have updated the bulletin today regarding the critical update patch Q811493 for Windows XP SP1 and Microsoft tells us that they are working on a fix for it.
Microsoft says: Subsequent to the release of this bulletin and the associated patches, a performance related problem was identified with the Windows XP Service Pack 1 version of the patch. This problem is unrelated to the security vulnerability discussed in this bulletin, however the problem has caused some customers to notice performance degradation on Windows XP SP1 systems after applying the patch.
What is Microsoft doing about the performance problem with the Windows XP SP1 patch?
Microsoft is actively investigating the performance related problems and will re-issue the Windows XP SP1 patch when it has been corrected and fully tested.
I’m running Windows XP SP1. What should I do until Microsoft reissues the patch for Windows XP SP1?
Windows XP Service Pack 1 customers are encouraged to review this security bulletin – and in particular the Severity Rating matrix and assessment above - to assess whether their particular environments demand that the patch should be applied immediately or whether their particular level of risk permits delaying deployment of the patch until it is revised and the performance issue corrected. Customers who can not wait to deploy the patch are encouraged to test it to see whether the performance problems affect them before deploying the patch broadly. Microsoft has also published a Knowledge Base article, 819634, that describes the known circumstances that can cause the performance problems to manifest themselves, and what affected users can do to reduce the impact of the problem.
It should be noted that the patch is still effective in addressing the local elevation of privileges security vulnerability discussed in this bulletin.
When will Microsoft reissue the Windows XP SP1 patch?
Microsoft is actively working on the revised fix and will re-issue it as soon as it has been built and fully tested.
How will I know when the corrected Windows XP SP1 patch is available?
Microsoft will update this bulletin and will also resend the Security Notification Service e-mail for this bulletin to advise on the availability of the corrected patch. Information on how to subscribe to the Security Notification Service is available:HERE
You can read the full text on the TechNet website.
Yet again, we will keep you informed when the patch is fixed.
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Thursday 24 April, 2003
AVG antivirus update available by @ 10:56 pm
Grisoft, the provider of the free antivirus software AVG has released an update. Download the update now to keep your computer safe.
The file is 1250kb in size and a restart of your system is not required.
Grisoft says that this update adds detection of new viruses I-Worm/Coronex, Worm/Halfint and new variants of Worm/Randon, IRC/BackDoor.Flood, I-Worm/Cult.
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Wednesday 23 April, 2003
2 New Critical Windows Updates by @ 10:00 pm
Microsoft have released 2 new critical Windows Updates for Internet Explorer 5.01, 5.5 and 6 and Outlook Express.
The first is a cumulative patch for Internet Explorer verions 5.01, 5.5 and 6. The patch fixes four new vulnerabilities, the most serious of which could enable an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a user’s system if the user either browsed to a hostile web site or opened a specially crafted HTML email message.
The second critical update also addresses a vulnerability that could allow an attacker to run code of the attacker’s choice on a user’s machine. To exploit the vulnerability, attacker would have to be able to cause Windows to open a specially constructed MHTML URL, either on a web site or included in an HTML email message.
Visit Windows Update to download these new patches. Just as a reminder, make sure you untick the option for Q811493 if you have had problems with this patch. As yet, we have not had any news about the this update and it's problems from Microsoft.
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3.3 or not 3.3 That is the Question? by @ 9:32 pm
Dell computers has released a new version of the Catalyst drivers. Unsigned by Microsoft, these drivers are reported as being the long awaited Catalyst 3.3 drivers. If they are the 3.3 Catalyst drivers this will make ATI very angry especially as they announced that they will never release beta unsigned drivers.
Warp2Search posted a story today "ATI Catalyst 3.3 Released Early By 3rd Party OEM" but Catalyst Maker (who makes Catalyst drivers for ATI) and G I Bros on the Rage3D forums deny that these drivers are the long awaited 3.3's.
To add insult to injury, Rage3D has released a news story that says ATI are having problems getting WHQL certification for the new drivers and that they will be delayed. It was thought that the Official 3.3 Catalyst drivers may be released this week but this set back for ATI could mean another 4-6 weeks delay before they are finally released to users.
Anyway, I gave these Dell drivers a run for their money. Compared to the current version of Catalyst drivers 3.2 I found 3D Mark 03 scores were up by 320 points, CodeCreatures was down 4 fps in both sections but games like Microsoft Train Simulator suffered very bad jumping. The trains would stop for half a second out of every 10 seconds. It was really annoying. Testing out my demos I found a mixed bag. Some demos seemed to run really smoothly while others suffered timming problems. If these are the 3.3 Catalysts then many users will be sticking to version 3.2.
If anybody would like to give these Unofficial 3.3 drivers a try you can get them from Dell or Warp2Search have posted them HERE
The Dell ?.? drivers are for WindowsXP users only and only support Radion 9700 and 9800 cards. We will keep you posted.
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Avast anti-virus Bug Alert! by bluetracker @ 6:02 am
Alwils Avast Anti-virus contains a "Little bug"
If like me you use this antivirus program under Windows XP you will find it effectivly prevents a Boot-time scan from running.
The symptoms
On scheduling the boot-time scan everything appears OK until you restart the computer, the scan is initiated but almost immediately closes showing an "Unhandled Exception error". Depending on how you have configured Windows to handle these errors you may find that your system restarts as it is unable to continue.
I have reported my findings to Alwil and Michal Zrubecky from the Alwil support team tells me that this is indeed a "little bug" and will be fixed in their next program update soon to be released.
In the meantime of course you won't be able to run a Boot-time scan which is a handy feature to catch any virus' that activate at bootup and have the ability to hide from normal scanning procedures.
The program still offers protection against viruses, Email protection and normal 'behind the scenes' system scanning is unaffected by the 'bug'
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Tuesday 22 April, 2003
Windows XP Fun Packs by @ 7:44 pm
Microsoft have released a number of free fun packs for you to download. From digital photography tools to extra power toys, all these fun packs have a spring theme.
With all these fun packs, you can download the full pack or pick which items you want and download seperately.
PowerToys Fun Packs
Desktop Wallpaper Changer PowerToy
Make your computer desktop more dynamic, interactive, useful, and fun. The Wallpaper Changer PowerToy allows your desktop wallpaper to change automatically. It also lets you choose which images to display. Select the folder of images to display as a slide show and set the display interval to change wallpaper every few minutes, hours, or days. The simple intuitive interface is easily available from the system tray.
Video Screen Saver PowerToy
The Windows XP Screen Saver PowerToy makes it easy to play any Windows Media® Video or series of videos (such as home movies created with Windows Movie Maker 2) as your Windows XP screen saver.
Download Now
Digital Photography and Browsing Fun Pack
Greeting Card Templates and Title Slides
There are 15 greeting card templates for Mother’s Day, graduation day, baseball season, and Easter that you can use with Windows XP or Microsoft Picture It!® (or other graphics programs) to create cards, personalized with your photos. You can send the greeting cards via e-mail, share them via Windows Messenger, or print them out and mail them.
You’ll also find five title slides you can use when creating a Photo Story with Windows XP Plus! Digital Media Edition. Title slides are a useful way to add an opening theme to your Photo Story. The Fun Pack features title slides for the season’s major holidays and occasions, including Mother’s Day, graduation, and Easter.
Internet Explorer 6 Spring Favorites
A collection of over 70 great sites covering a range of topics including baseball, Easter, Mother’s Day, digital photography, graduation, and the outdoors. These sites will help you find the perfect gift, buy a digital camera, plan a hike, start a garden, and much more. Once installed, the links will appear in your Favorites menu. They will be in a folder labeled Spring Favorites.
Download Now
Windows Movie Maker 2 Creativity Fun Pack
Titles and End Credits
Choose from a selection of six “countdown,” “the end,” and blank video titles to add to your home movies. Use the blank clips to add your own titles using the Movie Maker titling engine.
Static Video Titles
The Creativity Fun Pack contains 16 static titles slides that you can use as-is or add your own titles to. These slides cover many occasions, including Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and graduation.
Music Tracks and Music Transitions
Courtesy of SoundDogs.com, this fun pack has three full-length songs that you can add to your graduation movie or any kind of movie. There are also five music transitions to add dramatic interest to your home movies.
Sound Effects
Choose from more than 50 new sound effects, including party sounds; graduation ceremony sounds; and a bunch of miscellaneous sounds, such as cars, buzzers, and clicks.
Download Now
Windows Media Player 9 Series Fun Pack
Windows Media Player 9 Series Visualizations
The 3D Alchemy Visualization Pack for Windows Media Player includes five exciting new visualizations built using the 3D capabilities of Windows XP:
- Classic: A classic view of Alchemy
- Kaleidoscope: A new variation on a theme
- Monoliths: View album art and a sci-fi themed visualization in 3D
- Strange World: A futuristic world and satellite with visualizations dancing on the surface
- WM Museum: A 3D museum of the many versions of Windows Media Player
Note: These requires 3D graphics accelerator with at least 16 MB of video memory.
Picture Viz 3D: Spring Edition
This all-new 3-D version of the popular Picture Viz packs lets you view your digital photos with themed backgrounds for baseball, Easter, Mother's Day, spring, graduation, and more. There are over two dozen transitions to get you started.
Blogging Plug-in for Windows Media Player 9 Series
Add more personality to your blog with this plug-in that adds the artist, song, and album name to the Windows Media Player 9 Series title bar. Blogging clients like LiveJournal, w.bloggar, Semagic, and others can then easily add that information to your next entry while you compose.
Download Here
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Omega 1.4345 Nvidia drivers released by @ 6:58 pm
Omega Drives has released their latest modified Nvidia card drivers based on the official Nvidia 43.45 drivers.
The latest drivers are for Windows 98/me/2000/XP. The version is 1.4345.
Omega Drives says:
* Based on the Official 43.45 drivers. (9x/Me/2k/XP)
* Support for new cards: GeForce FX 5x00 and Quadro FX x000 (9x/Me/2k/XP)
* Added the new Nvidia taskbar utilitie. (9x/Me/2k/XP)
* Updated the included Omega utilities to their most recent versions. (2k/XP)
* Removed a tweak not used in Dx9. (9x/Me/2k/XP)
You can download them from the Omega Website
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Monday 21 April, 2003
Nvidia Detonator 43.51 for Windows 98/ME available by @ 11:07 pm
Nvidia Detonator drivers version 43.51 are now available for Windows 98/ME. The version for Windows 2000/XP was released last week.
The file size in 17.7MB and were released on 19th April 2003. These drivers have been leaked.
The GeForce FAQ has been updated with the information.
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SpywareBlaster Update by @ 10:04 pm
Spyware Blaster 2.5.3 has an update available. SpywareBlaster doesn't scan and clean for spyware - it prevents it from ever being installed. Click the 'check for updates' button to download the latest files.
2 files are available, both are just over 70kb in size. Download the files, click 'check all' box and press 'Protect against checked items'.
If you would like to give SpywareBlaster a try you can download a copy HERE
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Q811493 re-visited by @ 5:51 pm
An update on the story of Microsoft's Windows Update Q811493 and some advice to users who wish they never ever downloaded this patch.
The problems are many for users who updated their systems and downloaded the Windows Update numbered Q811493. I have had personal experience of this little patch slowing my system down and I'm being sent reports of other problems it causes via email.
I am reliably informed that users of Connectix's virtual PC 5 may notice that after updating Windows 2000 with Microsoft's hotfix Q811493 that the virtual PC will continue to reboot before it completely boots.
My system slowed down badly when clicking on files and Internet Explorer showed errors with the message 'Internet Explorer has encountered a problem and must shut down'when visiting secure websites.
Well, what can you do to fix this problem?
Well, the easiest way is to locate the file named Q811493 in the add/remove menu. However, I tried this and got the message that my JPEG Optimizer program might not work correctly. I went ahead and uninstalled it anyway, and true to form the JPEG Optimizer crashed. A re-install of the program would have fixed it.
However, good ol' WindowsXP's system restore was my best bet. Thankfully, WindowsXP had auto set a restore point proir to installing the update. All is well again.
It seems from reports on Warp2Search that the reason some users have problems and others don't is down to the way anti-virus software reacts with the new patch. I use Grisoft's AVG but Warp2Search list Nortons, EZ Anti-virus Realtime, MacAfee version 7 and Sophos. By turning off the auto scan on these antivirus programs the slowdowns stop. But, as you can guess, you put yourself at risk from virus attacks by doing this.
A forum thread on Neowin.net also shows that AVG and Pc-Cillin cause the problem as well. Also, I've seen quite a few comments from people (also on this thread at Neowin) that removing all the files from the Windows Prefetch folder helps to restore things.
From what I understand of the article, what we are being told is, if you have already installed Q330909 Windows XP Patch: Hibernation Problem on Computers with 1 GB of RAM and then install Q811493 it replaces newer files installed by Q330909. If you don't update Q811493 you are protected anyway. You can download the Q330909 patch from Microsoft HERE
I hope these links and suggestons help you if your having problems.
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Saturday 19 April, 2003
Bring on the Cow! by bluetracker @ 12:06 am
Database v3350 18-04-2003
Moosoft's Trojan horse detection and removal utility, The Cleaner has been refreshed with a new update to it's detection files.
This time, Daniel Otis Vigil the brains behind the program has added protection against just one new Trojan PBvX
although this update does contain newer definition files to detect .....Assasin, Klez and sdbot. Kinda makes you wonder if these 'nasties' will ever stop morphing?
Just goes to show you need to update your Anti virus or Trojan software regularly to keep up with the "wee beasties". Forget to update,... then we'll read about all your woes on our Forums!
As always you can update your copy of The Cleanerby using the Moolive Updater from within the utility itself, or by surfing on down to Moosoft's website
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Friday 18 April, 2003
Rage3D Tweak Update by @ 7:33 pm
Rage3D have released an updated version of their popular ATI visual display driver tweaker. Version 3.8c is now available.
On top of the many tweaks already available, Rage3D have added:
- Added Force Pixel Shader Version for DirectX
- Added Force Vertex Shader Version for DirectX
- Some minor bugs
Rage3D says: Rage3D Tweak is a Radeon Tweaker designed to fit right in with the other ATI option tabs in the Advanced Display Properties accessed through the Control Panel. It allows access to Registry Tweak options, Custom Display Modes, Refresh Rates, and Overclocking all through an easy to use interface. For those requiring instant access to all the tweak options, a handy icon on the task bar can be enabled for quick access to all three tweaker tabs. Comprehensive html, outline based help is available through the standard "?" icon in the display tabs and the help button.
Main Features:
- Tabbed interface accessible through display properties or system tray for easy navigation.
- Full right-click context sensitive help as well as html outline based help.
- Core and Memory overclocking support for all Radeon series cards.
- Support for per-game profiles and per-game clock speed settings.
- Refresh rate force capabilities for standard and custom display modes.
- Multiple skin options for the tweaker.
- User configurable sound events for GameUtil functions.
- Extensive list of tweaks for 2D and 3D as well as display, multimedia, windows and more.
I gave this tweaker a try this afternoon and I must say it's packed full of features and is very well put together.
If you have an ATI card and wish to try adjusting a few settings, then this program is a must. Go get your free copy HERE
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Another AVG Update today by @ 6:52 pm
Grisoft, the provider of the popular free antivirus software AVG has released an updated detection file. Check for updates now to keep your antivirus software up to date and your computer safe.
For XP users the file size is 1231kb in size and a restart of your system is not required.
Grisoft says that this update (update 474) adds detection of new variants of viruses JS/Fortnight, Downloader.Small, I-Worm/Merkur.
You can visit the Grisoft website and learn all about thier free antivirus software HERE
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V21 / Flexi-host fiasco by bluetracker @ 2:57 pm
V21/Flexi-host ...Marriage of convenience?
Some month's ago the ISP V21 struck a deal with Flexi-host to provide what it claimed at the time as being a better deal for V21 subscribers. This deal was to replace the unlimited webspace the ISP was at the time providing to it's users, with a package that was claimed would provide an improvement to the service with added functionallity for users.
To quote from the publicity blurb.....
"V21 have now launched a great new FREE hosting service to its members, we have now completed a long awaited deal to provide our customer base with free web space with the easy ability to add extra features to their sites. The new hosting service's include self installing members forums, live statistics and more.... "
To date it would seem that this 'improvement' is actually a backward step for the V21 members who are now limited to just a measly 10MB of webspace and find that FTP (uploading protocols) is often unavailable. It should be noted that V21 allowed exsisting webspace users whose efforts exceeded the 10MB limit to transfer their complete site at no extra cost, although this too seems to be a wasted effort. Many such users whose sites exceeded the limit find that the 'extra' space given on the changover is in fact inaccessable and they are being limited to the exact amount of space their site occupied at the changeover to the "Flexi-Host experience"!
Even worse, it has been reported on the V21 forums that some webspace URL's remain non responsive long after the switch to Flexi-Host, often showing "Page not found" or "Site unavailable" notices when surfers try and visit them. This of course 'sticks in the craw' of the V21 customer who feels cheated.
V21 nor Flexi-host has made any effort to pour oil on troubled waters by giving any concise explanation as to why the service has not been available.
Worse still reports that the service was offline for almost 48 hours from 11/04/03 have by and large gone unanswered by the ISP V21.
Today the same outage occurred again although I hasten to add that WWW connection was restored at approximately 1300 hrs today, the FTP service is still offline at the time of writing.
V21...Customer support???
Their blurb on the login to the site reads......
"Customer Support - We're always here for you no matter what problem you may experience. Technical Support is available via Contact Us tool, enabling you to add, update and view the progress of problems you may experience".
Members of the V21 ISP if they experience a problem, have the ability to "Raise a Ticket" outlining the prolem and sending same to the relavent department within the V21 heirarchy.
Many users have reported that these "Tickets" are being ignored or that a 'stock reply' of "We are looking into the problem" is all that is forthcoming from the V21 admin.
In some instances a ticket has been deleted without any response whatsoever, this really is not the way for a responsible ISP to treat it's customers and begs the question, 'Is there more to this than meets the eye?'
Last year at their launch into the ADSL market
Commenting on the launch of the ADSL Home Surf package, Steve Kaye, Managing Director, V Two One, is quoted as saying (among other things ADSL related), "We are delighted to launch our ADSL package for home users. ............................Our team of experts are on call 24 hours a day for any queries that may arise and with user forums on our home pages, customers can discuss issues together and get answers direct from the V Two One team. We are looking forward to a high uptake of the service due to its competitive price and a high retention of users thanks to our unrivalled level of service and support."
Well Steve, some of your users may want to challenge that statement on your Companies support levels at this moment in time methinks!
Flexi-Host
Flexi-Host servers are to be found at the London Data Centre
Located in London's Docklands, within the Telehouse Europe building which is the UK's leading neutral co-location facility and is home to Europe's main Internet hubs. With all major Internet backbones on site, bandwidth can be provided independently of teleco fibre and the associated costs. Telehouse East houses Flexi-host's UNIX web servers and high bandwidth co-located machines, connectivity to the server racks is presented on two diversely routed gigabit fibres from our carriers in "Telehouse North" offering 2000Mbit of redundant Internet bandwidth to their equipment.(Just 'threw that in for you Techies out there!)
This newshound has tried contacting Telehouse Europe in the hopes that some light can be shed on these 'weird dissapearing acts' V21 members are experiencing with their alloted Flexi-host webspace.
As of this date Telehouse Europe have not replied to my e-mailed queries, but I stand in hope that after the Bank Holiday Someone will actually read the e-mail and perhaps then we can get to know exactly what is going on with the webspace provided to V21 users under the Flexi-Host banner.
Perhaps someone at Flexi-host 'forgot to pay the electricity bill' or some such? Whatever the reason for these annoying 'outages' V21 subscribers are at the very least entitled to be informed of the reason behind the outage and not merely fobbed off with stock replies to their queries.
I will be keeping a close eye on this problem and will update you all as and when a reply to my queries is recieved.
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Thursday 17 April, 2003
Q811493 Problem by @ 9:32 pm
Yesterday, Newsbytes advised users to visit Windows Update and install 2 critical updates. We now strongly advise you not install the update which fixes a buffer overrun in Windows Kernel message handling which could lead to elevated privileges (Q81143). The fix causes serious slowdowns with some WindowsXP users.
It's the critical update that fixes a previous update back in February. Microsoft says: A security issue has been identified that could allow an attacker to compromise a computer running Microsoft® Windows® XP and gain complete control over it. An attacker would need the ability to log onto the computer locally to carry out an attack.
I can confirm that this update will slow your machine down to the point you think it has crashed. I installed it yesterday and found that just clicking on a folder froze Windows XP for 10 seconds or more. If you have already installed the update, you should be able to uninstall it from the add/remove in the control panel. However, some programs may be affected when reinstalling the previous patch but the add/remove dialog will tell you which ones. You may need to uninstall those programs and re-install them for them to work correctly.
I've just seem some reports about this flaw in Q81143 at Warp2Search. I wouldn't normally tell users not to install a critical update but on this occasion it may be wise to hold back until Microsoft issue an announcement or release another patch that works.
We will keep you posted on this one.
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AVG Update by @ 8:51 pm
Grisoft, the provider of the popular free antivirus software AVG has released an updated detection file. Check for updates now to keep your antivirus software up to date and your computer safe.
For XP users the file size is 1223kb in size and a restart of your system is not required.
Grisoft says that this update (update 473) adds detection of new variants of viruses Win32/Ipamor, BackDoor.Mosucker, IRC/BackDoor.Flood, Worm/Randon, BackDoor.Padmin, Win32/Tenrobot, Win32/Debear.
You can visit the Grisoft website HERE
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Wednesday 16 April, 2003
3 New Windows Updates by @ 9:50 pm
Microsoft has released 2 new critical updates and a WindowsXP Update. The first critical update resolves a problem associated with the catalog Windows uses to ensure the integrity of installed binaries, the second is an update that fixes an update released in February and the non-critical update adds wireless Protected Access (WPA) security.
The first update resolves a problem associated with the catalog Windows uses to ensure the integrity of installed binaries. It allows a database to self repair if it becomes corupt.
The second critical update is proberbly the most interesting as it fixes an update Microsoft released back in February. It concerns a buffer overrun in Windows kernel message handling that could Lead to Elevated Privileges.
Microsoft says: The Windows kernel is the core of the operating system. It provides system level services such as device and memory management, allocates processor time to processes and manages error handling.
There is a flaw in the way the kernel passes error messages to a debugger. A vulnerability results because an attacker could write a program to exploit this flaw and run code of their choice. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability to take any action on the system including deleting data, adding accounts with administrative access, or reconfiguring the system.
For an attack to be successful, an attacker would need to be able to logon interactively to the system, either at the console or through a terminal session. Also, a successful attack would require the introduction of code in order to exploit this vulnerability. Because best practices recommends restricting the ability to logon interactively on servers, this issue most directly affects client systems and terminal servers.
Mitigating factors:
A successful attack requires the ability to logon interactively to the target machine, either directly at the console or through a terminal session.
Properly secured servers would be at little risk from this vulnerability. Standard best practices recommend only allowing trusted administrators to log onto such systems interactively; without such privileges, an attacker could not exploit the vulnerability.
The third update is a non-critical update that adds support for WPA users.It basically offers security for wireless networking. Microsoft has a webpage detailing the many security features of this update HERE
Critical Update No.1 is 235kb, No.2 is 5.8MB and should take about 25 minutes for modem users and finally update No.3 is 934kb and should take about 4 minutes with a modem.
Visit Windows Update to download these updates. We advise that users should install all critical updates when available from Microsoft.
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Monday 14 April, 2003
Hornet Archive saved by @ 11:10 am
 Newsbytes reported a few weeks ago that the Hornet Archive was to soon close. The good news is that the archive has been saved from the brink. The owner has found a new server which can take the bandwidth and 7gig of files.
Thanks to a news posting at OrangeJuice.net by Patrick Groove / United Trackers we have learnt that the Hornet Archive has been saved. The news posting says:
On April 7th, 2003 Hornet Archive was saved from the looming threat of shut down. The administrator has found a new host which meets his bandwidth and server space needs of 60gig/month in traffic and over 7gigs in files. This was not a money issue but rather the logistics of location. The archive was first made public on September 4th, 1992 and discontinued September 22, 1998. It was then revived Febuary 17, 2002.
A statement on the Hornet Archive's website says: The archive has been saved! I've found places to host files and content, following the Apr 26 relocation.
I'm sure many people will be very happy to learn that this resource will remain for a while longer. Best of luck from all the team at the Technology Vault.
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Sunday 13 April, 2003
Nvidia Detonator 43.51 drivers leaked by @ 7:32 am
A new set of detonator drivers have been leaked. Version 43.51 adds support for GeForceFX 5200, 5600 and 5800 series of cards.
They support Windows 2000/XP. The file size is 8.6MB and the inf file is dated 2 April 2003. These drivers include support for Nvidia's new chips as GeForceFX 5200, 5600 and 5800 cards.
The GeForceFAQ has been updated with the information.
Head on over to Guru3D to download them.
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Friday 11 April, 2003
Domain Name email scam by @ 10:39 pm
A number of bogus Domain Name registration companies are sending emails out to owners of Domain Names telling them they need to update their payments to keep their Domain Name.
Easily says in a newsletter to customers: We have been alerted to the fact that some domain owners are receiving emails that appear to come from Melbourne IT, with an email address of NOREPLY@melbourneit.com. These emails carry the title "DOMAIN EXPIRATION NOTICE" and warn that your domain is scheduled for deletion within 3 days, and provide a link through which the domain can be renewed. Please DO NOT attempt to renew your domains in this way.
This warning may well apply to other domain name registration companies too.
The problem for Easily is that Melbourne IT is a genuine company and one of Easily's partners. But Melbourne IT confirms that they did not send these emails out.
Nominet have also issued a warning about a company called UK Internet Registry Ltd. The company has been sending out documents resembling invoices to registrants of .co.uk names. It claims that the .com version of the .co.uk name is unregistered and offers to sell it to the registrant for a sum of money.
Take care that you don't get taken in by these and other scams that are doing the rounds. Newsbytes recommends that you visit the website where you purchased you domain name to check your accounts and never respond directly to any email telling you to renew your domain name.
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Microsoft .Net framework version 1.1 released by @ 10:11 pm
Microsoft has released an updated version of the .Net framework. Version 1.1 offers new features, improvements to existing features, and enhancements to the documentation.
Here is a list of just a few of the new features in version 1.1
- Native Support for Developing Mobile Web Applications
- Granular Version Control: Side-by-Side Execution
- Enable Execution of Windows Forms Assemblies Originating from the Internet
- Enable Code Access Security for ASP.NET Applications
- Native Support for Communicating with ODBC and Oracle Databases
- Unified Programming Model for Smart Client Application Development
- Support for IPv6
- Scalability, Performance, Documentation
To update your version of Microsoft's .Net framework visit Windows Update. You only need to install the .Net framework if you have programs that require it. The .Net frame work is available for all versions of Windows. This update also updates Windows Server 2003 family as that comes preinstalled with version 1.1
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Thursday 10 April, 2003
Phantom of the 'OPERA' by bluetracker @ 8:26 am
Is there a PHANTOM in your OPERA?
A security problem has been detected in version 6.01 of the Opera browser for Windows that could allow the remote execution of commands.
In testing it was revealed that an attacker could use some potentially dangerous Java methods from within JavaScript to build a web page with the JavaScript code which could be used to execute commands. When the unsuspecting user visited the web page with a vulnerable version of Opera, the commands could be run on the users computer.Information as to the serverity of the problem is 'sketchy' but the fact that should someone be able to gain control of your computer in this way is reason enough to worry. Therefore if you are still using Opera 6.x you are advised to update to the latest version, currently 7.03 available at Opera.com
This problem affects only on Opera versions 6x as Tests on version 7, indicate that it is not affected by the problem.
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Wednesday 9 April, 2003
Critical Windows Update by @ 11:06 pm
Microsoft has released a critical update for users of Microsoft's Virtual machine (VM). They have found a flaw that Could Enable System Compromise. Visit Windows Update now to keep your computer safe.
Microsoft says the flaw could allow an attacker to execute code of his or her choice. Versions of the Microsoft virtual machine (Microsoft VM) are identified by build numbers, which can be determined using the JVIEW tool as discussed in the FAQ. All builds of the Microsoft VM up to and including build 5.0.3809 are affected by these vulnerabilities.
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Tuesday 8 April, 2003
AVG Update by @ 5:55 pm
Grisoft, the provider of the popular free antivirus software AVG has released an updated detection file. Check for updates now to keep your antivirus software up to date and your computer safe.
Grisoft says that this update adds detection of new viruses Win32/Systemp, Win32/Emesix, I-Worm/Spinac, Worm/Ajja and new variants of Win32/Ipamor, IRC/BackDoor.SdBot, IRC/BackDoor.Flood, I-Worm/Zokrim, I-Worm/Ganda, I-Worm/Yaha, I-Worm/Roron, Worm/Kwbot.
The file size is just over 1900kb and a restart of your system is not required. This is update 470. Virus database 268 and dated 08/04/2003.
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Free 3D screensaver by @ 12:02 pm
If you head on over to the 3Planesoft website you can grab a free 'Lord of the Rings' themed 3D screensaver. It requires DirectX 8.0 and is a tiny 1.5mb in size. If you enjoyed the movie and the book then this screensaver will make a great addition to your collection.
You can download your copy from HERE
This is the second free screensaver from 3Planesoft, they also offer a Lantern 3D saver. Here are a couple of screen shots to give you an idea of what they look like.
the one ring screensaver
The background is made of a map of Middle Earth. In the foreground you can see the Ring of Sauron engraved with the spell written in the ancient Elvish characters but in the Language of Mordor, the Black Speech.
Lantern screensaver
3Planesoft says: Remnant of the past, this brass lantern lights up memories and burns with nostalgia.
You can download the lantern screensaver from HERE. Enjoy!
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SETI at Home by bluetracker @ 7:49 am
SETI at HOME vunarable to buffer overflow probs
Seti tell us that "Version 3.08 is a precautionary security release. There was a potential buffer overrun in the networking code of the client that is fixed with this version".
Users of the software that analyses data collected from radio telescopes are advised to install and run this latest version 3.08.
In order to exploit this vulnerability, a potential attacker would have to trick the client software into contacting a fake server rather than the actual SETI@home server.
Seti say that "to their knowledge, no SETI@home client has ever been attacked in this manner." This update is being released to rule out the possibility of any such attack being carried out.
To read more about this, Berend-Jan Wever,the person who originally discovered this buffer overflow exploit has published details of his findings on his WEBSITE
The update can be found using this link to the SETI at HOME website.
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Monday 7 April, 2003
Doom III to be exclusive to Xbox? by @ 5:47 am
Continuing on the saga of software developers making games for a single format (as reported on earlier in the week), id software is to make their latest version of Doom, Doom III exclusively for the Xbox if Microsoft get their way according to the printed version Wired magazine.
They say that Microsoft is prepared to offer id software large sums of money to make the latest Doom III game exclusively available for Microsoft's Xbox. Although no decision has been made yet by id software.
It looks like the rumours about games developers making games for single platforms is true. Earlier this week we reported on the game half-life which will only be available for the latest Nvidia based cards.
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Sunday 6 April, 2003
The Cleaner has a new update! by bluetracker @ 10:00 pm
Update for "The Cleaner"
Database v3349 release dated 04-06-2003
Moosoft have just informed users via e-mail of an update to their anti trojan detection and cleaning utility.
This data base has Added detection of .... Autoflooder, Browseraid, GoGo and Justin
It also includes an updated definition of trojan sdbot
Use the Moolive auto update function from within the program or surf along to the Moosoft website
The Hornet Archive is to close by @ 7:22 pm
Those of you old enough to remember the Hornet Archive will be very sad to hear that it's main server will finally close on or before the 26th April. The archive had 16,234 files catalogued, a staggering 7.1gig. The server holds what must be an unsurpassed snapshot in time of how computer graphics and music evolved over it's 6 year existence.
A message on the homepage says: Note: This archive (web site and file server) will be going down before April 26th, 2003. Over the past year, I've been paying to host this machine out of my apartment. I'm moving, and hosting will not be possible in the new place. I want to keep this archive online, but don't know yet how it can be done. Stay tuned
It goes on to tell you a history of the site: The Hornet Archive was opened on Sep 4, 1992. It ran continuously for the next 6 years, and 16,234 files were catalogged (7.1 gigs in total). On Sep 22, 1998 the archive closed, and for the next several years was idle. And then Jim decided to put together MindCandy Vol 1, a collection of demos on DVD. On Feb 17, 2002 the archive was partially restored, and a new search engine was created...
CLICK HERE to take a last look at the homepage.
The Hornet Archive has 2 mirror sites, one in Japan and one in spain. I am unsure at this time in writing if these mirrors will still be available. Neither has a website, they are both ftp sites holding the files.
FTP JAPAN
FTP SPAIN
Another era passes;-(
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The latest spyware uncovered! by bluetracker @ 3:54 pm
Blue Haven Media add another spyware laden program to the list
Who are BLUE HAVEN MEDIA...and why should I be concerned?
KaZooM, a Blue Haven Media production, debuted on October 23 2002 on CNet's Download.com.
Blue Haven Media itself is a division of Trek8, LLC, specialising, or so they claim..."in developing & acquiring new software applications and smaller software companies".
Their mission according to the publicity blurb, is to "...release free products for the masses, each of which is designed to streamline and enhance the online experience"....
What they didn't tell you that it's all riddled with spyware!
Why some companies adopt this method to pay for their software is beyond me...if it's a good enough bit of kit...CHARGE the user for it...don't flood their computers with all this crud!
In my humble opinion (although I can imagine many others would also agree) I would be willing to pay for a bit of useful software in cash, money rather than being made to pay for it by having advertising companies flooding my Inbox with spam or having my surfing preferences transmitted to person or person's unknown via spyware contained in the installation of the program.
The truth the whole truth and nothing but...from personal experience!
When booting my computer a few days ago I soon realised something was amiss...everything was 'sluggish' Programs I regularly used to compile my website crashed unexpectedly...even when going online there seemed to be an age between my user authentication and my homepage at V21 firing up; all the while the ikkle 'traffic icon' in the taskbar was buzzing merrily away. Using Mozilla as my default browser I found was a non starter as it immediately shut down and requested I send details of the shutdown to the bugtrack forum.
Needless to say this prompted me to investigate the cause. Especially as Internet Explorer had no problem in connecting ...HAH! Bluey smelled a rat!
Disconnecting from the internet and firing up The Cleaner and later Avast anti-virus I was still no wiser as both came up 'clean' so no Trojans or other Viruses had been found.
I then started up AdAware soon the reason for my suspicions became all too evident......
KaZooM MP3 Accellerator
ICQ Boom an instant messenger plugin
MP3 Media Monster a P2P file share finder
and Blue Haven's latest bit of crud Kazaa Skins 1.0 had found their way onto yours truly's computer via 'little fingers'. I had the full Blue Haven spyware suite! None of which has any form of un-install facility
When you consider that Kazzaa Skins alone installed not 1 but 91 bits of spyware that AdAware was able to find on my machine ranging from Registry keys Threads and values to files/folders and the like; You will believe me when I say that it takes forever to get rid of it all!
To it's credit, AdAware DID go some way in cleaning out many of the files and Reg entries, but a thorough registry search and subsequent clean-up in each User profile was also neccessary as I found that Kazzaa Skins spyware is installed not only on the downloading users' profile (if you use XP) but leaves traces in every other user profile.
Everytime you delete a Reg key in one user profile it gets replaced at the next reboot by a 'thread' lurking in another's profile.
The only way I could think of to completely rid my computer of it all was to 'plug at it' until I was confident that not one trace remained anywhere in any user profile...shut off System Restore then restart it (effectivly clearing it out of the system and create a new restore point immediatly afterwards; using System Cleanup delete all but the latest restore point to once and for all ensure nothing remains.Then and only after all the above had been done re-boot. I doesn't end there though! If you find things slowing down again (like 'moi')...YOU'VE MISSED A BIT!...On reflection I should have turned System restore off BEFORE I started the following task, but at 11.30 at night after a long day at work, Blueys brain cell (singular intended) was not at it's best! Honestly it's the worst case of spyware infection I have personally witnessed.
The 'Bits and Bobs' of crud I discovered after AdAware finished are so many it would take an age to list them so.....
My advice... DON'T DOWNLOAD KAZZAA SKINS IN THE FIRST INSTANCE!
If you think I'm being harsh or even a tad paranoid, then take a look at some of the reviews a couple of others have compiled after allowing this rubbish residence on their machines.......
From ZDNET Ratings page HERE
1...."Adware, Adware, and then more Adware"
This program is founded on the basis that it searches for more sources automatically for KaZaa, which it does fairly well and a slight (minimal) increase will be seen. The major and obvious downside is the required registration and installation of several incrediably annoying adware programs that will fill your desktop and system tray with all sorts pop-up windows and assorted RAM stealing garbage. This is also worsened by the fact that there is no uninstall feature, so once you install, your stuck with painstakingly removing everything by hand, if you can even manage. So simply, don't install this program until the adware is not required.
2..."Great Spyware Package that doesn't work"
Being a Dial-up user, Something to give KAzaa a boost was something that sounded really good - then I tried it. a nifty lil' package that installs not one, but four programs - three of which start up with your computer. those three programs - weathercast, bargainbuddy, and savenow are basically spyware programs that hog system resources. I'm usually willing to put up with spyware if I like the benefits - I use hotbar. But I only got a handful of extra users and very little increase in download speed (0.54 vs. 0.49) - not worth bogging down anyone's computer.
Needless to say the 'Little fingers' that started all of this have been well and truly 'rapped', a 'blanket ban' on downloads of any description initiated, their user profiles have also been downgraded and password protected to ensure no clandestine changes can be made either!
YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
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Friday 4 April, 2003
This is what DirectX 9 is all about! by @ 11:23 pm
Masaki Kawase presents a stunning interactive tech demo which shows off some of the new features of DirectX9. You will need a GeForce FX or Radeon 9700/9800 class graphics card that can handle these new directX 9 effects, if you have one, then this is what you will see.
In this demo you will see Glare, Motion Blur, Fresnel Reflection and Depth of Field work. You will get True HDR (High-Dynamic Range) Rendering, Image-Based Lighting, Afterimage, Bloom, Halo, Ghost, and Star glare effects. Be amazed with the Automatic Exposure Adjustment, Iris shaped Depth of Field blur, Realistic Motion Blur and Specular Reflectance.
All in all, this is a very neat piece of work. It runs windowed or full screen and it can be configured to your liking. You can either sit back and watch the auto rolling demo or if like me, you can play with the many controls to see all the effects at work.
The demo comes with a number of objects that float around in a variety of different environments.
Just to give you a taste, I had a play with the teapot image. Take a look at the variety of different textures and lighting situations and how real glass, chrome, brass, china etc can look. The pictures in no way show off the full effect of the demo, but I hope they give you a hint at what DirectX 9 and the latest graphics cards can do. These screen shots were taken using my trusted Radeon 9700 pro.
You have a number of object you can select from a skull, a selection of balls, a squiggly thing (very technical, but what do you call that!)... Here are just a few shots to wet your appetite.
You can visit Masaki Kawase's website and read all about the demo HERE and you can download the demo from his site HERE. The file is 15.7mb in size. Be warned, his site was getting alot of hits when I visited last and the pages took a while to download. However, the download link seems pretty fast. Enjoy!
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Adaware Reference File Update by @ 4:21 am
Lavasoft have updated the reference file for their adware removal tool Ad-Aware. 0R133 26.03.2003 is now the latest reference number. Click the 'check for updates now' link on your version of Ad-Aware 6 to download the latest version. Not got Ad-Aware yet? Then head on over to the
Lavasoft website and catch the details.
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Thursday 3 April, 2003
Nvidia vs ATI and The battle of the games developers by @ 10:31 pm
Games developers are nolonger going to make games compatible with different makes of graphics cards. Game developers are choosing between Nvidia and ATI graphics cards to support their games according to various reports on the web.
Is this going to be out and out battle between Nvidia and ATI?
To start with, according to 3Dgpu, the developers of the game 'Stalker' contacted both Nvidia and ATI regarding support for their latest game. They claim that Nvidia have pulled out all the stops to help by giving them early hardware and software support. They say: 'I want to give credit to NVIDIA for agreeing to be our technical partner and render us this kind of assistance (we contacted NVIDIA and ATI for several months, but ATI did not respond)'.
They claim that the game will work on ATI Radeon cards but due to Nvidia's support, some extra features will only be available to users with Nvidia cards.
Taking this a step further, the developers of the game 'Half-life' will be making the new version of the game (Half-Life 2) exclusive to Nvidia based cards according to a report at SPONG. ATI won't get a look in. They claim (from an insider at Nvidia) that this will be the first of many deals made with games developers.
If there is truth behind these stories then the future success of both Nvidia and ATI will depend on what deals they can strike up with 'big name' games developers and how popular their games become. Yes, it will speed up the development of graphics cards beyond anything we have seen to date, each graphics card company will only win this battle if they can come up with the goods. Who will be first to offer the latest new features and massive speed increases that the 'big name' games developers will demand? Up until now, it was the graphics card manufacturers who set the pace of development of graphics cards, now it could be the games developers who set the pace.
Nvidia has been cought with it's pants down regarding the GeForce FX Ultra while ATI showed that with the Radeon 9700 pro, it too could provide a rock solid top of the range product with good driver support. Only time will tell which company can sign up the best deals with the top games developers and which company will win 'the battle of the developers'. But my fear is that in the end it will all boil down to money. The card company which is prepared to offer the game developers the biggest incentive to pick their board to build their game on will win the contract.
I don't think it's a direction I like. We will keep you posted on this one!
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TVTool version 7.0 (BETA) released by @ 9:07 pm
TVTool version 7.0 (BETA) has been released. This updated version now has support for nView on GeForce 2-MX and GeForce4 cards.
HOT says: A little later than expected TVTool 7 is finally available now. Among other new features this version introduces nView support on appropriate cards. Here is an overview of the new features:
- nView support
- Support for DVI TFT displays on these cards
- Support for notebooks with GF2Go chip (w/o monitor dummy)
- Context menu can be configured to work with any player
- Adjustable delay for context menu
- Soundcard selection by hotkey
- HUE control for CX25870-25875 chips
- Zoom window with 4x magnification
- Expand menus function
- Force truecolor
- Messages can be turned off
For further information on all these features and links to the download site CLICK HERE. Full registered users will get details of the full download via email.
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Wednesday 2 April, 2003
Fancy being an ATI Catalyst beta driver tester? by @ 9:16 pm
Today, ATI officially launched it's beta driver program. ATI is going to pick 100 beta testers to help them provide better quality, more robust and feature full drivers for their Catalyst suite of programs. If you feel you have got what it takes to work with such a prestigious company as ATI, then read on.
ATI says: This program will take ATi's commitment of top quality drivers to the next level. This will give the opportunity of a select few from the public to test drivers in their own systems, thus giving ATi a stronger stance on capturing bugs from various setups. A great program if you ask me.
The CATALYST Beta Testing program is available to qualified and willing beta testers. This program will give testers the opportunity to test all four components of ATI's CATALYST suite.
To read the full story posted on the Rage3D website CLICK HERE
This is how it works. You need to download a word .doc application form from HERE. You need to complete the application form and email back to ATI at: catbeta@ati.com
After ATI have ploughed through the many 1000's of applications, they will pick just 100 testers and send them a legal contract to complete. You will need to complete this contract and fax it back to the address given in the email.
Security is very important to ATI. They will be marking each new driver given to the beta testers with a unique code. If any driver was to be leaked to the web then ATI will know who leaked it.
Just to let you know, I have returned my application form and await a reply. I can live in hope that someone will recognise my talents;-)
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Tuesday 1 April, 2003
AVG Update by @ 5:24 pm
Grisoft, the makers of the popular free antivirus software AVG have just updated the virus definitions file to update version 467. Check for updates now and keep your system free from infection.
Grisoft says this update adds detection of new viruses I-Worm/Wanor, Worm/Tanked, Backdoor.Turkojan and new variants of I-Worm/Frethem, Backdoor.Pestdoor, IRC-Worm/Wally, Win32/Alcopaul, Backdoor.Cigivip, and I-Worm/Rous.
The file size is 1445kb
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Nvidia release new Linux drivers by @ 7:25 am
Nvidia has just released new Linux drivers for Linux IA32. The latest version is numbered: 1.0-4349. This new version gives support for GeForce FX and Quadro FX. They support Red Hat Linux 9, Mandrake Linux 9.1, and SuSE Linux 8.2.
If you have a Linux OS then CLICK HERE for details about how to install these new drivers and grab the download.
The GeForceFAQ has been updated with the information.
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QuickTime Update by @ 6:55 am
Apple's QuickTime has been updated to version 6.1. QuickTime now handles MPEG-4 ISO file format and an advanced media player interface. QuickTime allows you to create, stream and play digital media.
Apple says: A true all-in-one, standards-based, cross-platform media tool, QuickTime 6.1 delivers a host of features that includes the following:
MPEG-4 ISO compliant file creation
Enhanced MPEG-4 video codec
Enhanced AAC audio codec
Instant-On streaming
Macromedia Flash 5
Enhanced QuickTime Player interface
QuickTime Picks, bringing you the best, up-to-date content
JPEG 2000 (Mac OS X Only)
Enhanced AppleScript integration (Macintosh Only)
You can download the free player version from HERE
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