TOZO PA1 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Review

The TOZO PA1 Portable Bluetooth Speaker is their latest speaker on offer and if you need a new speaker for your home,office or back garden this is one to check out for the price and sound.

With a solid build all round and a simple to use speaker this is also a very clean looking speaker and to the point with your keys up on top that are touch keys which gives you all the controls you need at a glance and not only this you have an app to do even more with EQs galore to pump up the bass, the app is simple to use and has a nice UI.

You can pair more than one of these together too and after my testing of just one two would be even better.

The sound is excellent and you can sample this in the video review down below and we go through the app and the EQ settings to give you an idea of what to expect.

There is excellent volume and bass here and overall a rel punchy sound which will fill a large room or back garden for those parties.

No lag latency not tinny sound when maxed out on volume either and you have extra features in the app to make your own EQ listen to the community and more.

If you want a solid speaker that is robust and packs a punch this one should be on the list..

The App

 

  • [Stereo Sound Quality & Dual Pairing] The TOZO PA1 speaker achieves a dual pairing function, connects two PA1 speakers and they play together at the same time. Furthermore, either of these two Bluetooth speakers can work perfectly on their own. Delivering superior 2.0 stereo quality, the 67mm diameter speaker provides exceptional enhanced bass through a powerful and wide range of sound.
  • [EQ Mode Switch & APP Connection] TOZO APP provides PA1 speaker with quick and easy access to APP connection and a customized EQ mode switch, which perfectly reflects different music styles, providing an incredible customized experience.

  • [25H Long Endurance] TOZO PA1 speaker lasts a long time for normal use at any volume on a single charge. The powerful
  • battery enables all-day listening, which gives you an excellent experience with a long endurance of up to 25H.
  • [Call Function] TOZO PA1 speaker support call function. You can take conference calls or friend group chats and access your device’s default voice assistant right from the Bluetooth speaker.
  • [IPX7 Waterproof] With the IPX7 waterproof Function, the PA1 speaker can work against The gentle splash of water or rain, providing strong waterproof protection and rigorously tested to meet IPX7 waterproof speaker standards, easy to listen to music at anywhere.

Dell Technologies Accelerates AI Innovation and Strengthens Cybersecurity Strategies for Microsoft Customers

Dell Technologies has announced new AI innovations to help Dell and Microsoft customers simplify AI adoption, accelerate deployment, and manage demanding workloads in multicloud environments. These advancements also aim to strengthen cybersecurity and data protection for joint customers.

Accelerating AI adoption and performance

Dell’s new AI offerings include the expansion of the Dell AI Factory with solutions developed in collaboration with Microsoft. One notable addition is the Dell APEX file storage for Microsoft Azure, a Dell managed service designed for superior AI workload performance, scalability and data services. This service promises easier deployment and management making it ideal for multicloud environments.

Additionally, Dell has introduced several services to aid organisations in adopting AI and creating custom AI solutions. These services include Accelerator Services for Copilot+ PCs, Services for Microsoft Copilot Studio and Azure AI Studio, and Implementation Services for Microsoft Azure AI Service. These offerings are intended to enhance productivity and support new business opportunities through AI application development.

Comprehensive data protection and security

On the cybersecurity front, Dell has also unveiled the Dell APEX Protection Services for Microsoft Azure, which provided Dell managed AI-powered cloud data protection and cyber resilience. This service aims to improve operational efficiency, enhance data protection with advanced data reduction capabilities and offer robust cyber recovery options.

Moreover, Dell has introduced new security services tailored for Microsoft environments. These services include advisory services for cybersecurity maturity model certification (CCMC) for Microsoft and Managed Detection and Response with Microsoft, helping customers align their cybersecurity posture and focus on core business activities while Dell experts monitor and respond to threats 24/7.

Arthur Lewis, President, Infrastructure Solutions Group, Dell Technologies said “Organisations modernising their IT strategies to support emerging workloads, like AI, need solutions that help them innovate faster, control costs and protect data across multicloud environments. Our storage software, data protection and services advancements help customers in Microsoft environments accelerate their transformation efforts quickly and securely.”

Aung Oo, VP of Azure Storage, Microsoft said “Our customers are looking for ways to modernise their IT infrastructure and adopt hybrid cloud services safely and securely. “Dell Technologies is enabling their customers to bring their existing knowledge, trusted platforms, and enterprise data to Azure to speed the adoption of critical technologies including Azure AI Services.”

Dell Technologies innovation highlight company’s commitment to helping businesses modernise their IT infrastructure while securely and efficiently adopting advanced AI solutions. With enhanced collaboration with Microsoft, Dell is providing the tools and services businesses need to thrive in today’s digital-first, multicloud world.

Availability

  • Dell-managed Dell APEX File Storage for Microsoft Azure will be available in public preview beginning in the first half of 2025.
  • Accelerator Services for Copilot+ PCs are available now.
  • Services for Microsoft Copilot Studio are available now.
  • Services for Microsoft Azure AI Studio are available now.
  • Implementation Services for Microsoft Azure AI Service are available now.
  • Dell APEX Protection Services for Microsoft Azure will be available beginning in the first half of 2025.
  • Advisory Services for Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) for Microsoft are available now.
  • Managed Detection and Response with Microsoft services are available now.

How Does Automated Scheduling Help Salons Enhance Efficiency During Peak Times?

Salons often face challenges when managing peak times and reducing no-shows. Automated scheduling offers a solution that streamlines the booking process and provides useful tools. With automated scheduling, salons can efficiently handle high-demand periods and reduce the occurrence of no-shows. This technology allows clients to book appointments easily online, providing real-time availability and minimizing the risk of double bookings.

By integrating automated reminders, salons can significantly cut down on last-minute cancellations. These reminders, sent through SMS or email, ensure clients remember their appointments, which helps maintain a steady business flow. Additionally, shift scheduling and performance tracking aid in optimizing staff management, making it easier to handle busy times.

Using tools such as Time Tailor, salons can benefit from online booking and appointment management without the burden of extra costs. This improves customer satisfaction by providing a seamless booking experience and boosts employee morale by reducing scheduling conflicts and manual errors.

The Value of Automated Scheduling in Salons

Automated scheduling benefits salons by managing busy times and cutting down on missed appointments. Using technology helps salons operate smoothly, making both staff and clients happier.

Streamlining Appointments During Peak Times

During peak hours, salons often see rushed staff and long wait times. Automated scheduling tools help efficiently organize bookings. They offer a clear view of available times and manage client flow, reducing busy periods’ chaos. This keeps both staff stress and customer frustration low.

Such systems also help with staffing. They show peak demand times so managers can adjust shifts and avoid being short-staffed. This ensures everyone, including clients and stylists, has a better experience.

Besides managing the calendar, automated scheduling supports online booking. Clients can book appointments at their convenience, even after hours. This feature attracts more clients and offers flexibility, increasing bookings during busy times.

Minimizing No-Shows With Automated Reminders

Missed appointments can be a major issue, affecting revenue and scheduling. Automated reminders via texts or emails offer a way to address this problem. By reminding clients of their upcoming visits, salons see fewer missed appointments.

These reminders are typically sent automatically, reducing the need for staff to follow up manually. This saves time and lets staff focus on other tasks. Reminders can also be sent through SMS or email, ensuring clients remember their bookings regardless of preference.

Additionally, reminders allow clients to confirm or reschedule their appointments. This helps salons fill any suddenly available slots, maximizing time and resources.

Implementing Automation for Optimal Results

Salons often face challenges during peak times and with no-shows. Automation can help by improving efficiency and guaranteeing smooth scheduling. Choosing the right software, training staff effectively, and maintaining personal interactions is important.

Selecting the Right Scheduling Software

Choosing the right scheduling software is important for salons. They should look for features like automated reminders, real-time availability, and mobile access. Software that integrates with existing systems can make transitions easier.

Assessing needs helps identify important features. Software that offers customizable reminders and easy calendar management can be beneficial. Guaranteeing the privacy and security of client data should also be a top priority. Reviewing several options can help salons find software that suits their business needs.

Training Staff on Automated Systems

Proper training is necessary for staff to use automated systems effectively. Training should cover all software features and include hands-on practice. Staff should know how to input client details, manage appointments, and handle any technical issues.

Regular training sessions can keep staff updated with software changes or upgrades. Offering support and using training materials, such as video tutorials or manuals, can improve understanding. Feedback from staff can identify areas needing more attention, thus improving the overall use of the system.

Balancing Human Touch with Automation

Automation can make scheduling smoother, but preserving the personal touch is important. Salons can use automation to handle routine tasks while focusing on personalized client interactions.

Staff should be trained to handle customer inquiries swiftly. Personal greetings on automated messages can make communications feel warmer and more personal. Salons can also allow clients to speak with staff for customized services, guaranteeing satisfaction and building customer loyalty. Balancing automation with human interaction means efficiency without sacrificing service quality.

Conclusion

Automated scheduling helps salons effectively handle busy hours by offering real-time availability updates and reducing booking errors. This technology allows salon staff to focus more on serving clients than managing appointments.

By sending automatic reminders via SMS and email, no-shows and last-minute cancellations can significantly decrease. Clients appreciate the convenience of receiving these reminders, helping them remember their appointments.

In conclusion, automated scheduling is a valuable tool for salon management. It optimizes time management and improves customer satisfaction by minimizing errors and improving communication with clients. Embracing these systems is a smart move for salons aiming to improve their operations.

Creating a Custom Payment Gateway: A Step-by-Step Guide

In today’s digital economy, businesses rely on payment gateways to facilitate secure and efficient online transactions. While many companies use third-party solutions, creating a payment gateway can provide unique advantages, such as tailored features, enhanced control, and reduced transaction fees.

Building a custom payment gateway is a complex process requiring technical expertise, compliance with regulations, and robust security measures. However, with proper planning and execution, it can be a valuable investment for businesses looking to scale or offer a distinctive payment experience.

Why Create a Custom Payment Gateway?

While third-party payment gateways are convenient, they come with limitations like high fees, lack of customization, and dependency on external providers. By creating your payment gateway, you gain control over the payment process, allowing you to:

  • Customize features to meet specific business needs.
  • Reduce dependency on external providers.
  • Minimize transaction costs.
  • Enhance security by implementing tailored fraud prevention measures.

Custom payment gateways are particularly beneficial for businesses with unique payment requirements or those processing high transaction volumes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Custom Payment Gateway

Before diving into development, it’s essential to outline your business goals and requirements for the payment gateway. Consider:

  1. Who will use the gateway? (e.g., e-commerce businesses, subscription platforms)
  2. How many transactions do you anticipate handling daily?
  3. What payment methods will the gateway support? (e.g., credit cards, digital wallets, cryptocurrencies)
  4. Will it integrate with specific platforms like e-commerce websites or mobile apps?

 

Understanding your objectives will guide the development process and help prioritize features.

Payment gateways must also adhere to strict regulations to secure sensitive data handling. Key compliance requirements feature PCI DSS compliance, GDPR or regional regulations, and 3D security.

Furthermore, include encryption, tokenization, and fraud detection mechanisms to protect transactions and build customer trust.

Design the system to facilitate secure transactions between customers, merchants, and banks. It should handle authorizations, captures, and settlements efficiently.

What’s more, develop APIs that enable businesses to integrate the payment gateway into their platforms. Ensure the APIs are well-documented and easy to use for developers.

Support multiple payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, digital wallets (like Apple Pay or Google Pay), and alternative options like buy now, pay later (BNPL) services or cryptocurrencies.

Integrate machine learning algorithms to analyze transaction patterns and identify potential fraud. Tools like address verification systems (AVS) and real-time risk assessments can also help minimize fraudulent activities.

Collaborate with acquiring banks and payment networks (e.g., Visa, Mastercard) to facilitate transaction processing. These partnerships are essential to ensure that funds move securely between customers and merchants.

Additionally, establish relationships with payment processors for backend support, such as handling chargebacks and managing transaction settlements.

Once testing is complete, launch your custom payment gateway. Monitor its performance continuously using analytics tools to track transaction success rates, error occurrences, and customer satisfaction. Regularly update the gateway to incorporate new features and address emerging security threats.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

High Development Costs

Creating a custom payment gateway requires significant investment in development and compliance. To mitigate costs, prioritize essential features during the initial phase and plan for iterative improvements over time.

Regulatory Complexity

Staying compliant with evolving regulations can be challenging. Work with legal experts and compliance officers to ensure your gateway meets all necessary standards.

Security Risks

Cybersecurity is a critical concern. Invest in robust security measures and partner with experts to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.

Conclusions

Creating a payment gateway is a complex but rewarding endeavor for businesses looking to enhance their payment processes. By following a structured approach—defining objectives, ensuring compliance, building a secure infrastructure, and partnering with financial institutions—you can develop a solution tailored to your needs. While the journey involves challenges, the benefits of increased control, cost savings, and a superior user experience make it a worthwhile investment. A custom payment gateway not only empowers businesses to manage payments effectively but also positions them for long-term growth in an increasingly cashless economy.

Dublin student’s design for the vision impaired wins SciFest National Final 2024

5th year student, Maura Moore-McCune representing The King’s Hospital School, Palmerstown in Co. Dublin has won the title of SciFest STEM Champion 2024 with her project ‘VIPMOD: Vision Impaired Person’s Moving Object Detector’. Maura Moore-McCune will represent Ireland at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair 2025 in Columbus, Ohio.

Now in its 19th year, SciFest is Ireland’s largest, most-inclusive all-island STEM fair programme for second-level students. The National Final, held in Marino Conference Centre in Dublin today, was attended by students from every corner of the island, with 62 students qualifying to participate this year. Since 2006, the programme has continued to evolve and expand, reporting an average increase of over 20% year on year. This has been helped by the tremendous support offered by Intel Ireland, Boston Scientific, EirGrid and Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals.

Maura Moore-McCune, who is vision impaired, developed an app to detect fast moving objects, so that vision impaired people can live safer and more independent lives.

This project evolved through six prototypes. The first three prototypes used Micro:bits. Prototype 4 uses GPS technology. Prototype 5 is an app which uses TensorFlow.js Image Classification model to detect oncoming vehicles and other objects. The app displays the object’s name, vibrates and issues a text-to-speech warning. Finally, Prototype 6 is an application that estimates the speed of oncoming objects. It uses a YOLOv8 model to analyse input footage.  Prototype 5 was tested in a controlled setting, with 95% accuracy (316 trials).  Vision Ireland will be testing VIPMOD in the WayFinding Centre – an indoor environment replicating the real-world experience of using public transport for vision impaired people.

Maura was presented with the SciFest STEM Champion 2024 Award by Sheila Porter, SciFest Founder and CEO. Maura rose to win the top prize, following her success at the regional final in SciFest@TU Dublin Tallaght.

Founded in 2006, the programme’s primary aim is to encourage students’ participation in STEM in an enjoyable and interactive way. SciFest is free to enter and open to everyone across the island of Ireland, no matter their background or circumstance.

Speaking today at this year’s National Final, CEO and Founder of SciFest, Sheila Porter commented: “On behalf of everyone here at SciFest, I would like to extend a warm congratulations to all the winners, particularly to Maura for winning the title of SciFest STEM Champion 2024. SciFest has been providing opportunities in STEM for students for nearly two decades, and I am proud to have watched it evolve during that time. And while every year, we continue to grow, our core mission remains the same: to inspire and empower the next generation to engage with and explore the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

This year saw a big uptake in projects focusing on the environment and sustainability – critical areas for shaping a better future. I want to sincerely thank everybody who has been involved – from our students, teachers, and parents to our wonderful sponsors – all of whom have contributed to this extraordinary event. Together, we continue to drive progress and spark the creativity that will lead us into the future.”

Other award winners at the SciFest 2024 National Final were:

  • Lily Cahill who won the SciFest STEM Champion 2024 Runner-up Award for her project on ‘Investigating Whether Childhood Imaginary Companions Impact Social Competence and Coping Skills in Teenage Years’
  • Fionn Campbell who won the Berlin Long Night of Science Award for his project on ‘A Crystal-Clear Way to Slow Down Ireland’s Energy Crisis’
  • Maura Moore-McCune who won the Boston Scientific Medical Devices Grand Award for her project on ‘VIPMOD: Vision Impaired Person’s Moving Object Detector’
  • Gráinne Ní Chrónín who won the Boston Scientific Medical Devices Grand Award Runner Up for her project on ‘No More Ice, Ice Baby!’
  • Matthew Daly and Rory Maguire who won the EirGrid Cleaner Climate Grand Award for their project on ‘How “Green” are the Local GAA Clubs? Comparing the Carbon Footprints of our Rural GAA Clubs’
  • Lillie Li and Miles Bueno who won the Intel Technology Award for their project on ‘Finding Habitable Exoplanets on the NASA database with the Help of AI’
  • Orlaith Connors who won the Mallinckrodt STEM Excellence Award for her project on ‘MITES BEE GONE! An Investigation of Irish Honeybees and Their Natural’
  • Micheala Gillooly who won the STEM Outreach Video Award for her project on ‘Own your Cycle, Own Your Game’
  • Áine Ní Fhearraigh, Muireann Haicéid and Kerry Magner who won the SciFest Social Sciences Award for their project on ‘Cé Mhéad Leictreachais is Féidir le Roth Uisce Simplí a Ghiniúint, agus an Leor é Chun Roinnt Soilse a Lasadh?’
  • Emmalise O’Boyle and Cara Mullen who won the SciFest Life Sciences Award for their project on ‘Investigating the Effect of Microplastic Concentrations on Plant Growth and Nutrition’
  • Megan Bohan and Ríona O’Farrell who won the THEA Award for their project on ‘Feathered Frequencies: The Invention of a Bird Deterrent Sound System to Eliminate the Threat of Bird Strikes Involving Jet Engines and Turbine Blades’
  • Séana Dunne, Miriam Senior and David Fitzpatrick who won the ISTA Award for their project on ‘Extracting Latex from Dandelions and Using it to Make a Glue to Find a Sustainable Alternative Source for Latex’
  • Robyn O’Hanlon, Emilia Aherne and Elodie Wallace who won the SciFest Junior Scientist of the Future Award for their project on ‘Mushrooms vs Normal Building Material’
  • Addison Carey who won the SciFest Junior Technologist of the Future Award for her project on ‘Enhancing Data Security in AI Training using Zero-Knowledge Proofs for Secure Methodology Development’

Centric360 acquires Irish managed services provider HCS

HCS – the managed services provider with offices in Dublin, Waterford and Cork – today announces that it has been acquired by Centric360. Centric360 is an investment vehicle owned jointly by Pamela Farrell and Brian Larkin, former directors of the Evros Technology Group which was acquired in 2020 by eir. The acquisition will be followed by further investment in HCS throughout 2025, including the expansion of its service portfolio and team.

Over the past 30 years, HCS has become a highly successful managed services business spanning cyber security, cloud, digital transformation and telecoms. HCS has an impressive customer base across financial services, healthcare, hospitality, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing sectors.

Since 2020, HCS has increased its turnover from €3.5 million to a projected revenue of €8 million in this financial year and more than doubled its team from 24 to 50 employees. The company has also invested heavily in automating its systems across sales and services, providing a foundation for long-term growth and innovation.

Building on this acquisition by Centric360, both Larkin and Farrell see significant scope for further investment in the business in 2025. This will include enhancing and scaling the existing HCS service portfolio and expanding the sales and professional services teams to deliver an end-to-end offering with a best-in-class customer experience.

The vision is to build on the company’s impressive growth and foundations by extending the range of products and services to meet the rising demands of existing and future customers. Furthermore, the business intends to shift its focus beyond the SME and midmarket space to include larger enterprises.

To support these plans, HCS will add additional expertise and resources to its experienced team in the coming months. In addition to creating jobs across its three Irish offices, the company will invest in the professional development and progression of the existing team.

The acquisition also includes the purchase of the HCS headquarters in Waterford, where the business intends to strengthen its presence further. The current HCS owners and directors – Seán Hegarty, Dan Hegarty and Neil Phelan – will continue in their vital roles, contributing significantly to HCS’s ongoing growth and future success.

Meanwhile, Larkin will become Chairman and Farrell will assume the role of Managing Director. Together they bring extensive knowledge to the organisation, having been key contributors to building the Evros Technology Group to revenues of over €100 million and a 400-strong team.

Speaking about the acquisition, HCS CEO Neil Phelan said: “It was important for us to join forces with people who understand our brand and history. Together, we hope to continue driving growth not just for the business but for our employees and customers too. Pamela and Brian bring extensive industry experience, strong professional reputation, and a proven track record in leadership and business expansion. Combined with our high-quality services, excellent client relationships and talented team, we look forward to elevating HCS to the next level.”

Pamela Farrell added: “It was clear from the moment we met with HCS that we shared similar values and vision for business. With the alignment of culture and expertise, we look forward to further investing in operations, expanding the company’s capabilities, and bolstering the team. In turn, we intend to open up new opportunities while building on the organisation’s existing legacy of delivering transformational, innovative services which customers can trust.”

Square Kiosk launches in Ireland to make restaurant ordering faster and more intuitive

Square unveiled Square Kiosk, a fully integrated software, hardware, and payments solution that enables self-serve ordering for quick-service restaurants.

Designed to help fast-moving and fast-growing restaurants deliver a smooth service experience and keep queues to a minimum, Square Kiosk empowers guests to customise and place orders in under 60 seconds through its sleek and intuitive design, an easy-to-use interface, and embedded contactless and chip payment technology.

Amid concerns about increased costs in the hospitality industry and difficulty finding skilled personnel, Square Kiosk also untethers restaurant staff from the counter, freeing them to focus on other tasks.

For customers, using Square Kiosk is a sleek and simple experience that lets them bypass lines and easily customise their orders.

According to the 2024 Future of Commerce report, 78% of customers prefer to place orders through self-serve kiosks or online, and Square Kiosk’s intuitive UI and built-in payments lets diners quickly and easily order their food.

Guests are able to select exactly what they want, with customisation options being sent directly to the kitchen, and restaurants can grow their check sizes by offering upgrades and add-ons on every order without any awkward exchanges.

“With the evolution of technology in the hospitality industry, Irish diners have come to expect speed and convenience when ordering, and Square Kiosk delivers on that,” says Róisín O’Brien, Head of Product Marketing for Square in Ireland.

“Amid staffing challenges, growing costs and shrinking margins, Square Kiosk also gives operators the ability to staff up other areas of their businesses while streamlining service and cutting down on wait time for customers. Our goal is to help restaurateurs adapt to new market demands while optimising their resources, allowing them to focus on what they do best: providing an exceptional dining experience.”

Square Kiosk works seamlessly with Square for Restaurants and Square’s broader ecosystem of customer engagement and business insights tools. It’s easy for restaurants to set up, saves precious counter space, and can be placed anywhere – from the wall to flat on the counter to mounted on a floor stand or swing-arm.

Square Kiosk tracks sales data and instantly syncs menu updates, ensuring that customers have real-time visibility into what’s currently available.

The new Square Kiosk is available online at the Square Shop, starting at EUR119 (iPad not included) with an additional EUR 35 monthly software fee per device – this fee will be waived for early adopters through the end of December 2024. The Bosstab Floor Stand is also available as an optional add-on. For more information visit https://squareup.com/ie/en/point-of-sale/restaurants/kiosk-software

Detection Technology introduces revolutionary all-in-one CT detector system

Detection Technology, a global leader in X-ray detector solutions, introduces a game-changing all-in-one CT (computed tomography) detector system, purpose-built for X-ray system manufacturers and integrators. Designed to simplify system architecture and data transfer while delivering unprecedented performance, the solution represents a major leap forward for static and rotating CT systems across medical, security, and industrial applications.

The all-in-one CT detector system integrates key components, including detector modules, data combiner boards, data control boards, and optimized slip ring interfaces. It debuts with static CT systems, with plans to expand into rotating CT systems and advanced modalities like photon-counting CT (PCCT).

The detector system handles data at rates of tens of gigabits (Gbps) per second, enabling wider imaging coverage and reduced view times. These features enable more robust X-ray imaging systems that meet the increasing demand for high-resolution, low-dose imaging. The platform is designed to be seamlessly scalable, with data rates scaling up to hundreds, paving the way for photon-counting CT technology and next-generation imaging solutions.

“This platform brings unmatched efficiency and innovation,” said Tuomas Holma, Director of Product Management at Detection Technology. “Our all-in-one detector system minimizes risks, interfaces, and supply chain complexities while unlocking new imaging possibilities across industries.”

By combining hardware, firmware, and software in a modular and scalable platform, the detector system offers seamless integration. It reduces the need for multiple contact rings in slip ring interfaces, cutting costs and enhancing reliability. Its compatibility with the GigE Vision protocol and versatile support for slip ring interfaces ensures streamlined data communication.

Additionally, the platform supports dual-energy imaging and photon-counting CT, enabling improved spatial resolution, superior material discrimination, noise reduction, and wide imaging coverage. These benefits extend across security, medical, and industrial applications, providing a faster time-to-market for manufacturers.

The all-in-one CT detector system is designed to power a variety of high-performance X-ray applications:

  • Security CT: Enhanced 3D security screening systems for baggage and cargo.
  • Medical CT: Static and rotating systems with low-dose imaging.
  • Industrial inspection: High-speed, high-resolution 2D and 3D imaging for demanding applications.

“Our invention paves the way for transmitting up to 100x more data within a single CT system rotation period. This milestone brings us closer to fully unlocking photon-counting applications and meeting the industry’s need for high temporal and spatial resolution,” added Tuomas Holma.

Detection Technology will highlight the key features of its revolutionary all-in-one CT detector system at RSNA 2024 in Chicago, USA. Visit Detection Technology at Booth 4133 in the South Hall, Level 3, from December 1–4.

Winners Announced for the 2024 Tech Industry Alliance Leaders Awards

The Great Southern Hotel was abuzz with excitement and celebration tonight as the winners of the prestigious 2024 Tech Industry Alliance Leaders Awards were announced. The awards recognised outstanding achievements across the tech sector in the South West of Ireland, shining a spotlight on the innovators, entrepreneurs, and leaders driving growth and innovation in the region.

This year’s winners represented the leadership and dynamism of the tech community, ranging from pioneering start-ups to established enterprises. The awards ceremony brought together business leaders, policymakers, and academic luminaries to celebrate the achievements of this vibrant sector.

Speaking at the event, Gerry Murphy, Chairperson of Tech Industry Alliance, said:
“Tonight, we celebrate the visionaries and changemakers shaping the future of the tech industry in the South West of Ireland. These awards are not just about recognising success; they’re about inspiring the entire community to push boundaries, innovate, and make a lasting impact. Congratulations to all our winners and finalists—you are the driving force behind our region’s tech excellence.”

Sean Ryan, Board Member of Tech Industry Alliance, added:
“The calibre of entries this year was nothing short of exceptional, highlighting the remarkable talent and innovation that exists within our region. Each of our winners embodies the spirit of collaboration and ambition that defines the South West tech ecosystem. We’re incredibly proud to support their journey and look forward to seeing their continued success.”

The 2024 Tech Industry Alliance Leaders Awards Winners:

  • Tech Person of the Year Award: The McCarthy Family, Fexco
  • Tech Start Up of the Year Award: Stingray Labs
  • Scale Up of the Year Award: Green Rebel
  • Environmental Sustainability Award: Astellas Pharma Ireland
  • Multinational of the Year Award: ENERCON
  • Tech Industry Alliance Skillnet Best Learning Workplace Winner: Aspen Grove
  • Smart Technology Innovation Award: BioAtlantis
  • Diversity, Inclusion and Social Impact Award: NetApp
  • Chairperson’s Award: Tír na nÓg Children’s Foundation 
  • Excellence in Education Award: Coláiste Gleann Lí

 

The Tech Industry Alliance extends its gratitude to all sponsors, partners, and attendees who made this event a resounding success. Special thanks to the judging panels and to all those who joined in celebrating the achievements of the tech community.

For more information about the winners or to learn more about Tech Industry Alliance initiatives, see below or visit www.techindustryalliance.ie

 

Winner Smart Technology Innovation Award: BioAtlantis

BioAtlantis is a world leader in stress mitigation technologies. Extensive research and collaboration with leading research institutes worldwide has enabled the company to develop the AgriPrime Range. AgriPrime products nourish crops form soil to harvest, helping them cope with various stress and growth limiting factors, allowing them to reach their genetic potential.

Winner of the Tech Start Up of the Year Award: Stingray Labs

Stingray Labs is a technology startup developing products to streamline and digitise legal and financial services, meeting the needs and expectations of tech savvy customers. Stingray Labs route to market is through partnerships, working with existing legal and finance organisations to offer streamlined products to the market. 

Winner of the Excellence in Education Award: Colaiste Gleann Lí   

Coláiste Gleann Lí is a multicultural, multi-denominational, coeducational post primary school based in Tralee which operates under the patronage of Kerry ETB. Coláiste Gleann Lí is a school for all. Coláiste Gleann Lí believe in harnessing and nurturing technology in their approach to provide students with a rounded education.

Winner – Chairperson’s Community Award: Tír na nÓg Children’s Foundation (Louise Quill)

Louise Quill began working in Tanzania in 2006. Whilst there she could see a great need for a facility that would provide a family unit for the orphaned and abandoned children of Tanzania. The Tír na nÓg Children’s Foundation was created to alleviate the suffering of Tanzanian children and to provide a home where they would be nurtured in a loving, safe environment. The aim of Tír na nÓg is to educate these children according to their abilities.

The foundation believes in developing not only schools to create the leaders of tomorrow, but also long-term sustainable projects to provide employment for local people. The foundation has been established and operated from Tralee & Tanzania. Louise who lives and teaches in Kerry divides her time between both locations, striving to provide the conditions, training and resources needed to help children grow mentally, physically and spiritually in those values that assure a fruitful and happy future. 

Winner of the Tech Scale Up Award: Green Rebel

Green Rebel is a dynamic Irish company specialising in data delivery, analytics, and consultancy to support offshore renewable energy developments. Green Rebel was founded by environmental advocate and entrepreneur, Pearse Flynn, to provide an Irish based, complete offshore survey service, support offshore wind energy projects, and help Ireland achieve its climate objectives.

Winner of the Diversity, Inclusion & Social Impact Award:  NetApp

NetApp is the intelligent data infrastructure company, combining unified data storage, integrated data services, and CloudOps solutions. NetApp creates silo-free infrastructure, harnessing observability and AI to enable the industry’s best data management. 

Winner of the Best Learning Work Place Award:  Aspen Grove

Aspen Grove Everything-as-a-Service (XaaS) optimises workflow enabling automation, tracking, and managing of any process to enhance responsiveness and productivity while controlling costs and minimising risk. 

Winner of the Environmental Sustainability Award:  Astellas Ireland

Astellas Ireland (Kerry Plant) is a finished goods pharmaceutical facility based in Killorglin, Co. Kerry, and headquartered in Japan. The Kerry plant manufactures and packages lifesaving products for the global market including lifesaving immunosuppressants and biologic treatment for cancer patients.

Winner of the Multinational of the Year Award:  ENERCON

ENERCON is a pioneer of wind energy technology and a partner of the energy transition, that specialises in turbine and technology development, production, sales and servicing of onshore wind turbines. Pursuing its mission of ‘Energy for the world’, ENERCON has driven sustainable energy generation from onshore wind for over 40 years. 

Winner Tech Person of the Year Award : The McCarthy Family, Fexco

The McCarthy Family have contributed significantly to the development of the South West region not only in terms of economic development, employment creation but also in leading the way as a global Technology leader in their space. Their focus on technology – enabled innovation is underpinned by their collaboration with the Science Foundation of Ireland and UCC where they aim to discover and develop the next generation of Financial Services Technology. 

Their organisation, Fexco, from its beginnings in 1981, when it was the first to get a foreign exchange license as a non-bank in Ireland, when it established itself as the Foreign Exchange Company of Ireland it has grown from strength to strength winning many prestigious awards. It is a global leader in the payments and FX technology sector, providing its solutions and services globally with operations in over 50 countries and employing over 2,900 employees worldwide, yet it still remains a very strong family affair over its 4 decades of existence.