Cumberland unveils online directory service

Richardson-based Cumberland Systems Co. launched its new on-line directory service, The Opt-Index (www.optindex. com).

The Opt-Index gathers all its information directly from individual businesses and organizations who list themselves voluntarily (opt-in). The company believes that this approach will yield a highly organized index and provide accurate searches within locales and across its 10,000-plus categories.

All listing submissions are processed exclusively through the company's Web site to its real-time database. Changes are reflected immediately online. The service is open to all legitimate businesses and nonprofit organizations, regardless of whether they have Web sites. There is no charge to users to list or search the site.

MindCad updates Pyramid for OS X

Austin-based MindCad updated Pyramid, its visual thinking software for OS X, to version 1.2. New features added include the ability to link objects to external documents and web sites, the ability to export OPML for compatibility with many traditional OS X outliners, and an updated introductory tutorial.

Pyramid automatically places connecting lines between related objects on worksheets that grow dynamically in all four directions. The software is designed to help people focus their attention on ideas and underlying relationships, as opposed to wasting creative energy on the mechanics of formatting and presentation.

E-Mobile to buy out Canadian chip maker

Plano-based E-Mobile Information Technologies signed a letter of intent to buy Canadian company RFTune Inc., the producer of smart antenna chips for mobile phones, PDAs and laptops.

RFTune's chips expand cell phone capabilities by increasing network capacity, doubling the coverage and enhancing voice and data services quality, while extending battery life and reducing drop-off problems and harmful emissions.

Educational Software Coop members honored

The DelValle-based Educational Software Cooperative (ESC) held its tenth anniversary luncheon at the 2004 Shareware Industry Conference, and announced this year's prize winners. ESC's People's Choice Award for Best Educational Software was won by Crossdown Systems for their namesake Windows crossword puzzle application Crossdown. The ESC Award for Outstanding Achievement was given to NextUp Technologies, LLC. A special Lifetime Achievement Award was given to Richard Hart of Nine-Patch Software.

In addition, several ESC members won prestigious Shareware Industry Association awards. Cherokee Trails by Pharos Games won honors for the Best Educational Program or Game. Word Search Construction Kit by Insight Software Solutions, Inc. took the Best Hobby or Personal Interest award. AceReader by StepWare, Inc. won the SIA People's Choice Award for Best Educational Program or Game.

ABS picks DeviceAuthority suite

Austin-based AlterPoint Inc., which makes network change and configuration management products, said American Bureau of Shipping, a Houston-based ship classification and certification company that establishes and administers standards for the design, construction, and operational maintenance of marine vessels, has deployed DeviceAuthority Suite across its data and voice communications network.

ABS will use DeviceAuthority Suite to automate device change and configuration processes across their multi-vendor network.

Citysearch debuts guide to Dallas

Citysearch, a online local search service, said a Dallas site has been added to its network of local city guides. Content for the site will be generated by a new Dallas office, led by City Editor Nathan Stull and Regional Sales Manager James Smith.

The guide (www.dallas.citysearch.com) provides free entertainment listings and reviews for restaurants, bars, hotels, spas and attractions. Citysearch also allows local businesses, through its local pay-for-performance service, to buy the names and Web addresses of interested online customers.

The Dallas site will launch with coverage that will include 400 editorial and 300 user reviews in addition to ratings, business information, venue images, maps and more.

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