NewerTECH released new versions of several utilities in their free gauge series

NewerTECH released new versions of several utilities in their free gauge series: Clockometer, Cache-22 and RAMometer.

From Victor Wong, POWERtools CEO:

"PowerTools Ships Fastest MacOS System...Again.

PowerTools announced today that they will start shipping the new X-Force MacOS workstations as early as next week. PowerTools recently redefined performance levels when it began shipping the X-Factor 750 (G3) MacOS workstations which out performed all other shipping MacOS systems in every single category. The new X-Force models now offer even higher performance levels than ever.

The new X-Force MacOS workstations are available in the following configurations:

X-Force250 (bundle #1): $4,999
250Mhz (G3 Arthur processor) mini-tower 32MB / 2.1GB scsi-3 hard drive / 24x CD / 1MB "back side" L2 cache / 4MB IMS video card / 10-Base-T ethernet / MacOS 8 / FWB hard disk tool kit / 250Mhz bus between processor and L2 / variable speed technology

X-Force250 (bundle #2): $5,499
250Mhz (G3 Arthur processor) mini-tower 80MB / 9.1GB fast-wide hard drive / fast-wide SCSI-3 card / 24x CD / 1MB "back-side" L2 cache / 4MB IMS video card / KB / 10-Base-T ethernet / MacOS 8 / FWB hard disk tool kit / 250Mhz bus between processor and L2 / variable speed technology

X-Force275 (bundle #1): $5,999
275Mhz (G3 Arthur processor) mini-tower 32MB / 2.1GB scsi-3 hard drive / 24x CD / 1MB "back side" L2 cache / 4MB IMS video card / 10-Base-T ethernet / MacOS 8 / FWB hard disk tool kit / 275Mhz bus between processor and L2 / variable speed technology

X-Force275 (bundle #2): $6,499
275Mhz (G3 Arthur processor) mini-tower 80MB / 9.1GB fast-wide hard drive / fast-wide SCSI-3 card / 24x CD / 1MB "back-side" L2 cache / 4MB IMS video card / KB / 10-Base-T ethernet / MacOS 8 / FWB hard disk tool kit / 275Mhz bus between processor and L2 / variable speed technology

When optimized for performance, the X-Force 250 series can achieve MacBench 4.0" CPU scores of over 1125 while the X-Force 275 can achieve CPU scores of over 1350. With performance levels of this magnitude, the X-Force series far out performs all other MacOS compatible systems including some Silicon Graphics workstations. The CPU score of 1350 represents performance levels that are nearly 3 times faster than the next fastest competing system from another vendor.

Although other vendors will offer MacOS systems using the same processor, limitations found in those systems such as much slower IDE hard drives and CD Roms, 3 or less PCI slots, 3 or less DIMM slots and slower video performance will serious hinder the G3 processors ability to process information efficiently. In real-world tests, the ultra-performance X-Factor and X-Force systems will out perform these other mid-range models by anywhere from 30% to 50% when using the same exact processor type and speed.

The X-Force will have a variable bus speed of up to 338 Mhz between the processor and the back-side cache. The X-Force will also have a variable systems bus speed in some cases in excess of 60Mhz. Although the system bus is no longer a critical variable in the performance equation, it is nice to know that it is adjustable. The reason for this is because the highest possible gains for performance can be had by increase the bas speed between the processor and the back-side cache, not the system bus speed, which rarely exceeds 45Mhz.

Owners of many other MacOS systems including models from PowerTools can upgrade or trade in their computers for the X-Factor or the X-Force. Information about the upgrades can be found on our web-site."

Here's an interesting press release on Microsoft's reaction the the DOJ lawsuit:

"REDMOND, Wash. - Oct. 21, 1997 -- In direct response to accusations made by the Department of Justice, the Microsoft Corp. announced today that it will be acquiring the federal government of the United States of America for an undisclosed sum.

"It's actually a logical extension of our planned growth", said Microsoft chairman Bill Gates, "It really is going to be a positive arrangement for everyone".

Microsoft representatives held a briefing in the oval office of the White House with U.S. President Bill Clinton, and assured members of the press that changes will be "minimal". The United States will be managed as a wholly owned division of Microsoft. An initial public offering is planned for July of next year, and the federal government is expected to be profitable by "Q4 1999 at latest", according to Microsoft president Steve Ballmer

In a related announcement, Bill Clinton stated that he had "willingly and enthusiastically" accepted a position as a vice president with Microsoft, and will continue to manage the United States government, reporting directly to Bill Gates. When asked how it felt to give up the mantle of executive authority to Gates, Clinton smiled and referred to it as "a relief". He went on to say that Gates has a "proven track record", and that U.S. citizens should offer Gates their "full support and confidence". Clinton will reportedly be earning several times the $200,000 annually he has earned as U.S. president, in his new role at Microsoft.

Gates dismissed a suggestion that the U.S. Capitol be moved to Redmond as "silly", though did say that he would make executive decisions for the U.S. government from his existing office at Microsoft headquarters. Gates went on to say that the House and Senate would "of course" be abolished. "Microsoft isn't a democracy", he observed, "and look how well we're doing".

When asked if the rumored attendant acquisition of Canada was proceeding, Gates said, "We don't deny that discussions are taking place". Microsoft representatives closed the conference by stating that United States citizens will be able to expect lower taxes, increases in government services and discounts on all Microsoft products.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software for personal computers, and democratic government. The company offers a wide range of products and services for public, business and personal use, each designed with the mission of making it easier and more enjoyable for people to take advantage of the full power of personal computing and free society every day.

About the United States

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Founded in 1789, the United States of America is the most successful nation in the history of the world, and has been a beacon of democracy and opportunity for over 200 years. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the United States is a wholly owned subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation."

It's bogus of course!