Sky Ireland and Virgin Media Ireland today announced a wholesale network access deal, that will significantly enhance broadband services available to Sky Ireland customers, across the country.
Through the partnership, Sky Ireland will supercharge its broadband experience and provide even more options to Irish consumers, utilising the infrastructure of Virgin Media Ireland’s superfast fibre broadband network.
Virgin Media Ireland boasts a formidable network that currently passes 1 million premises across Ireland, making it one of the most extensive and reliable broadband networks in the country. The company’s ongoing €200m network upgrade to full fibre is continuing to 2025 and will support speeds up to 10Gbps. Virgin Media Ireland has already upgraded over 250,000 premises to fibre across the Virgin network.
Speaking about the partnership with Virgin Media Ireland, Sky Ireland CEO, JD Buckley, said:
“This partnership with Virgin Media Ireland allows us to offer our customers even more choice when it comes to full fibre broadband. Sky now has partnerships with every full fibre broadband provider in Ireland. Whether our customers are using broadband for work, streaming content through Sky Glass or Sky Stream, or gaming, we can offer them the best full fibre service available in their area. This new partnership highlights our shared commitment to provide Irish consumers with a wider choice of high-quality services and the best broadband experience.”
Tony Hanway, Chief Executive of Virgin Media Ireland said:
“We welcome Sky as a wholesale network partner as we continue our network expansion nationally, bringing ultrafast fibre connectivity to over 1 million homes by the end of 2025. This further development forms part of our comprehensive ongoing commitment towards Ireland’s digital progress, enhancing overall competition and service delivery for consumers, businesses and communities nationwide.”
Sky Ireland’s latest full fibre broadband service will be available to customers across the country from 31st October. For further information on Sky offers and packages, check out www.sky.ie.
PSB Speakers, surpassing five decades of excellence in hi-fi loudspeaker design, announces the launch of a new generation of the highly acclaimed Imagine Series speaker line at Toronto Audio Fest. The latest edition of the Imagine Series consists of the B50 Bookshelf, T54 and T65 Tower speakers. The Imagine Series represents the best value no-compromise performance in the PSB Speakers’ line-up. The advanced crossover design and driver complement is directly inherited from the flagship Synchrony Series, while the chamfered edges and polished aluminium accents match those of the premium PWM Series, and clever value engineering is borrowed from the Alpha Series to deliver the brand’s signature “True to Nature” sound to a broader audience. The T65 Towers (CA$2,699 / US$1,999 / €1,999 / £1,699 a pair MSRP), T54 Towers (CA$2,099 / US$1,499 / €1,499 / £1,199 a pair MSRP) and B50 Bookshelf Speakers (CA$899 / US$699 / €699 / £599 a pair MSRP), will be available to purchase on November 7, 2023 and come in Satin Black and Satin White finishes.
Imagine T65 Floorstanding Tower Speaker
The T65 stands as the pinnacle within the Imagine Series as the tower speaker of the collection, harmonizing advanced technology, elegant design, and unparalleled performance. Boasting a driver array with a 1” tweeter, 5.25” midrange, and dual 6.5” woofers, the T65 showcases a 3-way dual bass reflex configuration, integrating paired rear slot ports and meticulously tuned woofer chambers. Its crossover design leverages the natural roll-off points of each driver with precise control of the sound. The outcome is an exceptional capacity to dive deeper into low frequencies, while presenting an expansive soundstage.
Imagine T65 front view.
Imagine T54 Floorstanding Tower Speaker
Disguised in a slender and modest form, the Imagine T54 Tower showcases a meticulously crafted 1” tweeter, 4” midrange, and dual 5.25” woofers. Embracing the 3-way dual bass reflex architecture reminiscent of the T65 and featuring dual rear-firing slot ports from the PWM Series, the T54 challenges its compact dimensions to present a wide frequency range and pin-point imaging for an immersive listening experience.
Imagine T54 rear view.
Imagine B50 Bookshelf Speaker The Imagine B50 Bookshelf harmonize a 1” tweeter, and 5.25” woofer within a compact footprint. Featuring a 2-way bass reflex design and rear-facing slot port, they are more than capable to fill any space with harmonious true-to-nature sound and unexpectedly deep bass extension.
Imagine B50 front view.
Seamless Integration with PWM Series
The PWM On-Wall speakers are designed to support the Imagine Series as centre channels or surround channels in any multi-channel application. The aluminium trim rings and chamfered edges of the Imagine Series not only enhance the visual aesthetics but ensure a harmonious visual match with the PWM Series to complete any home theatre.
PWM2 above PWM3 in black.
Decades of Refinement The Imagine Series encapsulates PSB’s unwavering commitment to world-class speaker design. All three models inherit flagship-grade technology from the prestigious Synchrony and PWM Series, ensuring each component meets the highest standards of quality and performance. Each speaker is scientifically measured, tested and fine-tuned by PSB’s esteemed design and engineering team. Bringing together refined true-to-nature sound and an exceptional performance-to-price ratio, the Imagine Series enables music enthusiasts and audiophiles to enjoy premium sound without compromise.
Key Features of the Imagine Series
Woven carbon fibre cones (woofers and midrange)
Mass-loaded rubber surrounds and premium magnet structures
Linkwitz-Riley 4th order crossover design
Low-resonance MDF cabinet with extensive bracing
1×1” (25mm) titanium dome tweeters with Ferrofluid damping and neodymium magnet
Boom Collaboration’s dedicated Work From Home conferencing kits have become the company’s best sellers this year, as more organisations look to level up their remote meeting technology.
Boom’s complete WFH kit features a plug-and-play MINI camera and GIRO wireless audio speaker – triggering a 28% rise in demand compared to the same period last year.
In addition Boom is reporting growing demand for its UNO vertical video bar (ideal for personal use) which has seen a 24% acceleration during 2023.
“There’s no doubt professional grade video and audio is the key to successful hybrid working,” says Boom co-founder Holli Hulett.
“Now the dust has settled on working from home practices, a clearer picture is emerging which enables companies to develop longer term strategies – with portable and powerful professional quality video and audio at the heart.”
She added: “Today, 60% of businesses globally have work from home policies with this number still growing in a post pandemic world. In addition, 30% of all employees are full-time remote workers while 62% work from home occasionally. The right equipment can significantly boost productivity while saving corporations money.”
Better meetings
The Boom MINI is a 1080p camera with a wide angle 90° field of view. It includes advanced focus technology, low light optimisation and two high sensitive mics.
The Boom GIRO audio device boasts 360°omnidrectional microphone pickup and full-duplex HD audio. Users can enjoy the convenience of wireless audio from a built-in lithium ion battery via Bluetooth or USB connection directly to a computer.
“We believe in better meetings. Simply. Whether in the office or at home,” Holli emphasised.
Her views are echoed by fellow founder Fredrik Hörnkvist who highlighted: “Meeting equity has become one of the most important components for a successful hybrid work experience. People need to be seen and heard clearly in equal quality wherever they are based.
“Everyone needs an equal voice and presence so they don’t become alienated and feel inferior. The performance of equipment at home needs to match that in the office. During Covid there was a mad panic to buy just what was available. We know from our resellers that many organisations are now investing in upgrade programmes as part of a longer term vision. Consistency is key.
“More and more organisations are recognising this is the best way to deliver more collaborative and flexible ways of working. Our WFH conferencing kit has become a best seller this year closely followed by the UNO all-in-one compact video bar.”
Running a successful business is no small feat, and it involves a multitude of moving parts that need to work seamlessly together. From managing finances to ensuring data security, every aspect of your business must be carefully considered. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the strategies and practices that can help you achieve smooth and secure business operations. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, these insights will prove invaluable in enhancing the efficiency and safety of your business.
1. Use an Answering Service
Using an answering service for a business can be a game-changer in the financial industry. These services offer a seamless way to manage client inquiries and appointments for financial advisors, as well as other professionals so that they never miss an important call. By providing professional and personalized responses to client questions, an answering service enhances trust and client satisfaction. Moreover, it allows advisors to focus on their core responsibilities of financial planning and investment strategies without the distraction of constant phone calls. In a field where timely communication and trust are paramount, an answering service can help you provide exceptional service and streamline your operations.
2. Develop a Robust Business Plan
A well-structured business plan serves as the roadmap for your company’s success. It outlines your goals, strategies, and financial projections. By crafting a thorough business plan, you not only provide direction for your team but also gain a clearer understanding of the resources and capital required to achieve your objectives. Regularly revisiting and updating your plan allows you to adapt to changing market conditions and keep your business on course.
3. Streamline Your Operations
Efficiency is the key to a smooth-running business. Evaluate your internal processes and look for areas where improvements can be made. Implement lean practices to eliminate unnecessary steps, reduce waste, and optimize resource utilization. Consider using project management software to enhance collaboration among your team members and automate repetitive tasks. Streamlining your operations can lead to significant time and cost savings.
4. Prioritize Cybersecurity
In today’s digital age, cybersecurity is paramount. Protecting your business’s sensitive information and data is non-negotiable. Start by implementing robust security measures such as firewalls, antivirus software, and regular software updates. Educate your employees on cybersecurity best practices, including password hygiene and recognizing phishing attempts. Additionally, consider investing in cyber liability insurance to safeguard your business against potential breaches. Establish Clear Policies and Procedure When everyone knows how to use the latest data security storage solutions, your business remains less vulnerable to cyberattacks.
5. Invest in Employee Training
Your employees are the backbone of your business, and their skills and knowledge directly impact your operations. Investing in training and development programs not only improves employee satisfaction but also enhances the overall competency of your workforce. A well-trained team is better equipped to handle their responsibilities, reduce errors, and contribute to a secure and efficient work environment.
6. Establish Clear Policies and Procedure
Clear and well-documented policies and procedures are essential for maintaining order and consistency in your business operations. These documents should cover various aspects, including employee conduct, safety protocols, and data handling procedures. When everyone in your organization understands the rules and guidelines, it reduces the risk of misunderstandings and ensures that your operations run smoothly and securely.
7. Build Strong Vendor Relationships
Many businesses rely on suppliers and vendors to keep their operations running smoothly. Establishing strong relationships with your key suppliers can be a strategic advantage. Regular communication and mutual trust can lead to preferential treatment, better pricing, and timely deliveries. Moreover, working closely with vendors can help you mitigate potential supply chain disruptions, ensuring that your business remains secure and operational.
8. Monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
To gauge the effectiveness of your business operations, you need to track and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs). These metrics can provide valuable insights into your company’s financial health, customer satisfaction, and overall performance. Regularly monitoring KPIs allows you to identify areas that require attention and make data-driven decisions to improve your business operations.
9. Emergency Preparedness and Contingency Planning
No matter how well you plan, unexpected events can disrupt your business. Developing a comprehensive emergency preparedness and contingency plan is crucial. This plan should outline steps to take in the event of natural disasters, economic downturns, or other unforeseen crises. By being prepared, you can minimize disruptions and ensure the security and continuity of your business operations.
10. Seek Continuous Improvement
Business operations should be viewed as an ongoing process of improvement. Encourage a culture of continuous improvement within your organization. Solicit feedback from employees and customers, and use this information to identify areas for enhancement. Embracing change and innovation will help your business stay competitive and resilient in an ever-evolving marketplace.
In conclusion, achieving smooth and secure business operations requires a multifaceted approach. By working with a financial advisor, developing a robust business plan, streamlining operations, investing in employee training, prioritizing cybersecurity, establishing clear policies, building strong vendor relationships, monitoring KPIs, planning for emergencies, and embracing continuous improvement, you can create a strong foundation for success. Remember that the journey to smooth and secure business operations is ongoing, and staying proactive is key to long-term sustainability and growth.
Keeping your space tidy can be a challenge and for me it is a daily one due to my work and all the products around I have in for review and this applies to my work space and my bedside locked which I have some control of as I keep the tech to a minimum there with mostly what is in line for review as for me that includes earbuds and headphones and so on so it is important to have something to minimize the space use and this product fro X/Layout is one to help me out called the X-Plant.
The product is well built and solid and can do multiple things at once and it also has a space for storing your headphones, this part however does not charge them there is also a shelf behind the see- through panels to store small items which is neat and there is two shelves here which can be removed, there is 5 light effects inside this panel too that gives it a nice effect.
You can charge you mobile phones and earbuds and other compatible products which is hand and up to 10watts of power is available, there is then a small branch like structure on the end which is made with quality material and you can hang your keys or smartwatches there, this can be used to hold other products and for me it will be my smartwatches which gives me simple access and walk away and the same for putting them on.
Creative Technology today announced the release of the Creative Live! Audio A3, the latest USB audio interface poised to transform the way users experience audio in their creative pursuits. Featuring high-resolution 24-bit recording and playback, versatile I/O connectivity, onboard level controls, and zero-latency direct monitoring, the Creative Live! Audio A3 serves as an essential tool for live streamers, content creators, and musicians seeking professional-grade audio quality.
The Creative Live! Audio A3 stands out with its high-resolution 24-bit recording and playback capabilities, ensuring that users experience exceptional audio clarity and fidelity for all types of content, from music to podcasts and voiceovers. Moreover, the 3.5 mm Mobile Audio I/O Jack minimizes caller input disruptions during remote interviews and podcast recordings, which allows users to seamlessly mix-minus audio to mobile devices while maintaining crystal-clear communication.
Elevate your sound and simplify your craft with the Creative Live! Audio A3
Tailored for a diverse range of users, the Creative Live! Audio A3 caters to the needs of musicians, podcasters, and content creators alike. It comes equipped with dual headphone jacks, each with individual volume controls, enabling users to fine-tune their listening experience. Furthermore, the interface includes a dual combo jack featuring a built-in mic preamp and Hi-Z switch, ensuring seamless compatibility with microphones, line-level devices, and instruments. On top of that, the integration of balanced stereo outputs eliminates common issues like electromagnetic interference to deliver clearer sound quality.
With the Creative Live! Audio A3, users can enjoy comprehensive audio control right at their fingertips with individual output and input volume controls, complemented by user-friendly indicators that make audio adjustments a breeze. Moreover, the zero-latency direct monitoring offers immediate sound feedback, a standout feature that strikes a chord with live streamers and musicians alike.
With high-resolution recording, seamless mobile audio integration, and intuitive controls, the Creative Live! Audio A3 shines as the ultimate audio solution for live streamers, content creators, and musicians looking to take their craft to the next level.
Pricing and Availability
Creative Live! Audio A3 is priced at US$299.99, UK£329.99 and is available at Creative.com. For more information, visit creative.com/LiveAudioA3
Recently on techbuzzireland we checked out the Final ZE 8000 true wireless earbuds which are for the high end audio enthusiasts out there and they are an exceptional pair of earbuds and you should check them out, this time around the company is catering for the gamers out there, not something I do much but do have time now and then to enjoy the many consoles I own and actually use them.
The Final VR2000 earphones will be a welcome addition for the gamers out there and you can read more about them over here and today we take a first look at the latest product on offer so in the interim while we test them out do feel free to ask any questions you might have and we will gladly answer as always.
Specifications
Housing: ABS
Driver Type: 6mm ‘fCore DU’ Dynamic Driver
Colour: Olive Green
Cable: OFC with in-line microphone
Cable Length: 1.2m
Sensitivity: 102dB
Impedance: 18Ω
Weight: 20g
The Final VR2000 are now available for £59.99/$69.99/€67.99 from Amazon and selected retailers worldwide.
In support of international ‘Restart a Heart’ day, Dublin Fire Brigade unveils fourteen new Public Access Automatic External Defibrillators (AED) located prominently outside each of its fire stations across the city and county. This is a significant step forward in enhancing community safety and will be available 24/7 to provide immediate assistance especially during critical moments when every second counts. These AEDs will guide an untrained person through Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and defibrillation, with voice prompts and encouragement while paramedics make their way to the patient and guidance is provided by Emergency Service Controllers over the 999/112 call.
The installation of the AEDs was prompted by an incident which happened outside Finglas fire station in January of this year. Pauline Ryan suffered a cardiac arrest in Finglas village while she was a passenger in a car being driven by her sister, who had the presence of mind to pull in to the fire station. At the time, the fire appliance, ambulance and all their medical equipment were out at another call, co-incidently, another Cardiac Arrest. Fortunately, the District Officer and a Firefighter/Paramedic were in the station and were able to perform life-saving CPR on Pauline until the arrival of colleagues from Phibsborough Fire Station, who were able to successfully defibrillate and resuscitate Pauline.
There is a simultaneous unveiling of the AEDs across all fourteen locations, and we are joined at Finglas Fire Station by Dublin Lord Mayor Daithí de Róiste. Speaking at the launch the Lord Mayor said, “I’m honoured to unveil the Public Access Defibrillator here at Finglas Fire Station, and to be part of the simultaneous launch of thirteen other AEDs across the city. The life-saving piece of equipment is a positive addition to the local community and to the people of Dublin.”
Dublin’s Chief Fire Officer is represented today by Assistant Chief Fire Officer Greg O’Dwyer who commented, “The Firefighter/Paramedics and Officers of Dublin Fire Brigade recognise the fire, rescue and medical role they provide in the wider community but also their closest neighbours to our 14 stations. Obviously we hope that these AEDs never have to be used, but we also hope that the installation of the AEDs provide some piece of mind and reassurance to our neighbours or commuters who pass our stations.”
Pauline, whose medical emergency prompted the installation of the AEDs joined with the Firefighters at the launch. Pauline said, “Only for the quick actions of my sister, the two firefighters in Finglas fire station and their colleagues from Phibsborough, I may not be here today. To them I am forever grateful. Knowing what I know now, I would encourage everyone from a young age to learn CPR. It is a life skill, literally“
This initiative aligns with Dublin Fire Brigade’s dedication to proactive community engagement and safety. By having these AEDs at our fire stations, we aim to bridge the gap between emergency services and the public fostering a sense of unity and co-operation within our great city. Dublin Fire Brigade encourages members of the community to take a course in CPR and the use of an AED. Visit www.irishheart.ie for a list of available “Heartsaver AED and CPR” courses in your area.
The AEDs are located outside each of the fourteen fire stations in a heated secure box. Members of the public can access the defibrillators by calling 999/112 stating their location. Simultaneously medical help will be dispatched and guidance will be given over the phone.
Over the past decade, almost 20 million meals, or 7,900 tonnes of food, have been redistributed to people living in food insecurity across Ireland, thanks to Tesco Ireland’s Surplus Food Donations Programme. On average, Tesco Ireland redistributes and donates up to 40,000 meals every week to over 350 charities across the country.
New research commissioned by FoodCloud, a social enterprise with a mission to transform surplus food into opportunities, shows that families with children are the single largest group of people accessing donations from Tesco Ireland’s Food Surplus Redistribution programme.
According to the study, conducted in July of this year, families with children make up almost half (47%) of all those accessing food donations, while three quarters (75%) of community groups, who distribute surplus food, report that they have experienced an increased demand for food in the last six months.
In ten years of partnership, diverting this surplus food from going to waste to those in Irish communities who need it, Tesco has significantly reduced emissions associated with the processing of this waste.
Working with FoodCloud and Olio, as well as over 350 local charitable and voluntary groups nationwide, Tesco redistributes surplus food at the end of each day to those who need it most in our communities. This food is perfectly edible but because it is nearing its use by date, it will be removed from the shelves in store. Typical donations comprise fruit and vegetables, bakery goods, meat and more.
In 2013, Tesco Ireland became the first retailer to partner nationally with FoodCloud, and this year the two organisations are celebrating 10 years of working together. The programme, which began in one Tesco Express store on Talbot Street in Dublin city, is now in operation across Ireland, and has since expanded into the UK, Czechia, and Slovakia.
Marking this important milestone, Tesco Ireland Communications Director, Rosemary Garth said: “We are very proud of what has been achieved since we launched our national Surplus Food Donations Programme 10 years ago. As a grocery retailer we have no time for waste and are absolutely committed to ensuring that no good food goes to waste when there are people in our communities who need it.
Since we launched this programme, which is powered by our partners FoodCloud and Olio, we have provided almost 20 million meals to the most vulnerable in our communities. This has enabled the charitable and voluntary sector in Ireland to reduce their food bills by over €23 million, which, according to FoodCloud, has empowered them to invest in providing an even greater level of support services in towns and cities nationwide”.
Co-founder of FoodCloud, Aoibheann O’Brien said: “Tesco’s commitment to eliminating edible food waste from their stores has positioned us as a global leader in tackling food waste. Through our strong partnership with Tesco, we have continued to grow our impact, innovate, and push boundaries around what is possible around food redistribution. We have worked together to reduce food waste for 10 years, expanding across four countries.”
