The 2006 Product of the Year special report for the computer business, developed by CRN points to software and hardware that determined the standard for technology this past year.  This computer business list was created by the CRN Test Center that retested both recommended and updated products in 10 different areas.  

The common denominator of these computer business products is their flexibility and ability to help solution providers within the computer business design, configure and customize systems.

Web Development Tool

Stylus Studio 2007 XML Enterprise Suite from DataDirect Technologies won this category with two powerful tools, XML Pipeline and XML Publisher.  Pipeline is a set of XML operations that provide control over data transformations, whereas Publisher helps create XML solutions without any coding.  This computer business tool’s map diagrams allow users to manipulate a variety of data sources.

Computer Business:  Security Software

Astaro’s Security Gateway acts as a virtual appliance, allowing partners to offer benefits that resemble those found in an integrated appliance without the need for extraneous hardware.

Networking Hardware

FileEngine from Server Partners offers an on-site server appliance that can be managed remotely and treated like an SMB service.  This product provides the ability for profitability.  This product combines Linux, open-source software and the Pentium 4 platform and offers no hidden costs.  It can be replaced every few years and the contract renewed.

Storage

Intel’s SS4000-E offers a plethora of custom options for solution providers to create NAS units or white-box NAS solutions across the board.  This storage option wins accolades for its fitness in the small business arena.

Application Development Tool

Compuware’s DevPartner 8.0 offers an option for developers that work with .Net.  This system simplifies .Net without getting rid of features and can help with debugging.  It is better than Microsoft Visual Studio and has been said to be easier to use.

Computer Business:  Imaging

Minolta’s Magicolor 7450 is a color laser printer that offers great image quality and paper handling at only $2,999, an excellent deal for a large-format color laser printer.  It is at its best when used for high-volume jobs.

Notebook

The Hewlett-Packard Compaq NC6400 offers many different configuration options and price points.  It is supported by a strong channel program that can help VARs sell and earn when offering it as part of their solutions.  The notebook series can be created with 512 Mbytes, 1 Gbyte or 2 Gbytes of RAM and can feature SATA drives that go from 40 to 100 Gbytes.

Applications Software

Microsoft Exchange 2007 features an update to Exchange 2003 that spreads out jobs across a set of roles-based servers.  The product is based on modular architecture and helps create a more reliable experience and improve administration options for VARs.

Operating System

Microsoft Vista Enterprise Edition took the prize in this computer business category.  This product has been controversial but brings new features to the table for solution providers.  One of its most notable features is its Aero Glass interface that gives it an aesthetically-pleasing look and makes it very user-friendly.

Computer Business:  Server

SuperServer 5015M-MR from Supermicro Computer in California offers a small server that can support dual-core technology.  This server is an inexpensive and smaller alternative to blade servers and allows for lower-cost, lower-space server.

For more bests of 2006 in the computer business, please see the provided link.

Blogged By:  Computer Consulting 101