Readers of my blog know that I love computer history. Therefore, I decided to focus my entry in Juniper Networks’ “Build the Best (Lego) Data Center” contest on the history of computing. Specifically, I would re-create key historic machines to contrast them with a modern view.
Despite Appearances, SpectraLogic’s BlackPearl Isn’t An Amazon Glacier Clone
This week, SpectraLogic announced DS3 and “BlackPearl”, an innovative product for tape storage using a cloud API. Although BlackPearl sounds like an Amazon Glacier clone, it’s really nothing of the sort. BlackPearl extends the S3 API for tape storage but this “DS3” API requires well-behaved clients and disciplined access. BlackPearl is exciting, it’s novel, and it’s useful. But it’s not S3 or Glacier, despite what some initial coverage may say.
Wherein I Weigh In On Object Storage, SDN, And Commoditization (and Coho Data!)
Today marks the launch of a new enterprise storage company, Coho Data. I’m very excited about the core technology within Coho’s storage solutions, and am pleased to present two video discussions about this.
Sony QX100 Lens Camera: Ruined by a Flaky iOS App
I was thrilled by the possibilities of adding a professional-quality camera sensor and lens to my iPhone, so I immediately pre-ordered Sony’s DSC-QX100 “lens camera”. It held so much promise, not just as a real innovation but also as a major productivity tool. That’s why I’m angry to write this, a scathing review of the horrid software that ruins the QX10 and QX100 experience. Do not buy this device.
Hands-On Review: Automatic, a Nanny For Your Car
Automatic is a cool idea: Monitor your car and your driving using a Bluetooth dongle plugged into the diagnostic port found on every recent car. But the service itself is frustratingly limited, a dunce driving nanny rather than a useful tool.
