Posted 02/20/09 at 01:10:40 PM by David Murphy

Cuba has debuted a new national Linux-based operating system dubbed "Nova."  As one might expect, Cuba claims that the move will help the country replace proprietary Microsoft software running on the nation's computers.  It almost sounds a little silly, but Cuba makes two noteworthy points as to why it's trying to purge this United States-based software from its networks.  Nor is this the first international body that's sought to replace Microsoft software with an open-source alternative.

According to Cuban officials, the switch is more intended to turn away from United States-backed software as opposed to specifically Microsoft.  They claim that governmental agencies would be able to infiltrate Cuban systems because they would could to pressure Microsoft to give up its "codes."  It's unclear whether Cuba expects U.S. officials to actually hack into Cuban databases, break through encryption measures, or any combination of nefarious activities.  Cuban officials also suggest that importing Microsoft software violates the U.S. trade embargo, an explanation for why Microsoft operating systems are allegedly more difficult to acquire for the island nation.

Grab your cigar and click the link to find out just how much Linux adoption Cuba expects to have within five years!

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Posted 01/08/09 at 07:57:05 AM by Pulkit Chandna

Nova Mobile Systems has brought its new extra durable UMPC SideArm 2, which succeeds its sturdy Sidearm UMPC, to Las Vegas for the Consumer Electronics Show. As is the case with most UMPCs, Nova’s SideArm 2 to is equipped with an Intel Atom. The UMPC has a 7” touch screen and weighs less than 2 pounds. However, the weight goes up to a shade less than 2.5 pounds if the user opts for the 10+ hour battery option.

Consumers will be able to choose between a SSD with up to 64GB storage capacity and a HDD with a maximum of 120GB space. Its connectivity features include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS and 3G. SideArm has many variants aimed at different set of users and supports Windows Vista/XP and Linux. The company is heavily plugging the rugged nature of the UMPC, which comes with a rotating hand strap and has been drop tested to 4 feet.

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