In Short

A round-up of today's other stories in brief

Software to let parents set iPod volume

Apple Computer has introduced a software update for its iPod that lets parents set maximum volume limits on the device, as concerns grow that loud music played through earphones might risk hearing loss.

The software update, which is available as a free download for the iPod nano and fifth-generation iPod, gives users the ability to set volume caps on the iPod and lock it with a combination code, Apple said.

The move follows a class action lawsuit that was filed against Apple in a federal court in California in January, which claimed that iPods could cause hearing loss because they have the capacity to produce sounds in excess of 104 decibels and up to 115 decibels.

NTL offers 6MB broadband service

NTL is offering new broadband customers a 6MB connection option from today. The new product will enable customers to download material over the internet twice as fast as previously and about 100 times faster than through a dial-up connection.

The 6MB connection will be available at €39.99 a month, compared to the €29.99 price for the company's existing 3MB connection. The cheapest of NTL's broadband products is a 1MB link at €19.99.

Xilinx launches tiny microchip

Software group Xilinx has unveiled a 65 nanometre programmable microchip. The chip, which will be used in a range of high-performance computers, networking and and electronic systems, will go into full production later this year.

Much of the work relating to the development of the new chip is being carried out at Xilinx's European headquarters in Ireland, which employs 450 staff.

The 65 nanometre process is the smallest application of integrated circuitry currently in use.

Irishwoman starts retail therapy site

Online retail therapy is being launched by an Irish woman living in London. Eswapnow works on the same principle as eBay in that members register online and can start to exchange unwanted CDs, books and DVDs.

Every product a member puts on the board equals one credit and each credit allows one swap. The website, www.eswapnow.com, is already operating in the UK.

The founders, including Carlow-born Jackie Brennan, initially launched the site to swap among themselves and save money.

Sedilla lands Kildare contract

Sedilla Technology, the voice-recognition software, has just won a contract to supply Kildare County Council.

The company, founded by former Softech Telecom chief executive Henry Woods and sales director Paschal McEvoy, offers telecoms solutions to business users. Its ASC product allows callers to interact with an automated switchboard to get through to specific individuals and departments, even when they do not know the precise extension.

Mobile tech firm to expand at UCD

Changing Worlds, a provider of intelligent personalisation technology to the mobile telecommunications industry, has announced seven new staff at its research facility at UCD.