PC motion pictures via Windows software

Article Abstract:

Microsoft Corp's $199 Microsoft Video for Windows is an attempt to bring digital video images to microcomputers. Video for Windows is based on Intel Corp's new digital video technology, Indeo, and is somewhat similar to Apple Computer Inc's Quicktime, introduced in 1991. Both packages are software-only products that allow computer users to edit and play back digital video images and incorporate them into presentations. However, with a video camera and a suitable video circuit board, Indeo will allow digital video to be compressed as it is created, so that full-motion images can be recorded on an IBM-compatible microcomputer in a single-step process as simple as recording on tape. Intel's RT Video Card, which makes this innovation possible, will be priced at $995. Analysts see the potential market for desktop video as larger than that for desktop publishing and expect the hardware component to be available on a single, inexpensive chip within one year. Microsoft and Intel have collaborated on developing a scalable capability for Video for Windows that adjusts the output quality to fit the capabilities of the computer being used. Display on a regular computer is somewhat stilted, but the companies claim quality comparable to standard videotape from computers outfitted with the RT Video Card.

Household audio and video equipment, Radio & TV communications equipment, Computer peripheral equipment, not elsewhere classified, Software, Product Announcement, Microsoft Corp., MSFT, Desktop video software, New Product, Software Packages, Desktop video, Microsoft Video for Windows (Desktop video software)

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Ashton, after delay, ships new program

Article Abstract:

Ashton-Tate Corp ends the delay in the introduction of its dBase IV 1.1 data base management system. The delay, which lasted over one year, and problems in the first version of dBase IV are considered the causes of Ashton-Tate's declining sales and management difficulties since late 1988. Ashton Tate as well as industry analysts and consultants consider 1.1 worth the wait, claiming it both fixes and significantly enhances the original dBase IV version. It is said to be 'bug-free' and is supposed to be easier to use, with more features and better performance. The upgrade is free to registered users of dBase IV; dBase IV 1.1 is priced at $795 for new buyers. Industry analysts are unsure if Ashton-Tate can recapture the customers it has lost to other products such as Borland International Inc's Paradox.

product announcement, Product Delay, Product introduction delays, Borland dBASE IV 1.1 (DBMS)

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Borland to acquire its rival; stock swap deal for Ashton-Tate put at $439 million

Article Abstract:

Borland International Inc will acquire Ashton-Tate Corp in a stock trade worth $439 million. The companies have been rivals, and Borland's Paradox data base management program has taken market share from Ashton-Tate's dBase. Now, Borland will market to Ashton-Tate's customer base, which numbers millions of users who have dBase installed. Borland is currently rated third in the computer software industry. Microsoft Corp and Lotus Development Corp are first and second, respectively. Borland Chmn Philippe Kahn says he is prepared to compete with Microsoft, and he is also ready to compete against Oracle Corp, which leads in database software for minicomputers and mainframes. Ashton-Tate's stock increased $4.625, or 41 percent, on Wednesday, Jul 11, 1991. Borland's shares fell $2.25, to $47.375.

Mergers, acquisitions and divestments, Borland International Inc., Competition, Computer Software Industry, Stock, Acquisition, BORL

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