LinuxG33K,Geekineer,Open Sourcerer,Social Entrepreneur,Certified Linux Engineer,Computer Engineer,Explorer,Community Volunteer,Poet,Lyricist and Composer
Sunday, September 27, 2009
a web based disaster management system for ready use
We are a concerned IT Team who just finished setting up a web based Disaster Management System, Sahana. This has been used in a lot of disaster and calamities for sometime in some parts of the world.
The link is at http://sahana.kahelos.org – just freely register.
You may use this to track missing persons, those who wish to seek help, medical aids, shelter and provide relevant numbers to those who may need it.
Thank you and we hope this helps.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
IT's Good to be FREE!
The 8lien-hosted Software Freedom Day 2009
There were five main activities on the SFD09 "IT's Good to be FREE!" programme: Open Source Discussion, Business and Technical Talks, Install Fest, Makersmeet and Programming Contest. With most of the 400 attendeees coming from the studentry, the Technical Talks got the most registrants.
The morning of September 19, Saturday, 8:00am, the ground floor lobby of Systems Plus College Foundation Main Campus in Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines had quite an influx of excited faces made more vibrant as each received a copy of Kahel OS CD installer. Well-donned martials, ushers and usherettes dressed in Barong Fashion from host SPCF graciously guided the attendees and guests to the carpeted theater where the initial plenary session would be held.
Open Source Initiatives in Education, Business and Government
The SPCF Theater was almost full at 9 o'clock. Before the program officially started the Code Breakers documentary film was shown on the widescreen and by 9:20am, the Philippine National Anthem played followed by an interpretative dance Doxology from the SPCF Dancers. The crowd was hushed as the lights softened on the graceful and svelte movements of prayer on stage.
SFDers were warmly welcomed then by SPCF's Eric Estropia, VP for Administration. Next was Dr. Francis Sarmiento III, Program Manager for IOSN ASEAN+3 briefly sharing on what F/OSS is about and likewise delved on the programs, trainings and immersions that the organization have to put and elevate F/OSS in the mainstream. Two of what interested the audience are the Train the Linux Trainers and the Asian Source3 Conference in November.
Ms. Grace Fabros-Tyler took the podium next sharing to the crowd how SPCF inculcates the values of F/OSS. The Dean of SPCF's CITE (College of Information Technology and Education) also shared of SPCF's approach in integrating Linux and OSS in their curriculum. The college also now has a F/OSS laboratory since last year.
Collaborating and contributing to the Open Source community was also IBM Philippines' call to action as equivocated by Ms. Femee Cruz. She even used IBM's Lotus Symphony's presentation document for her slides. IBM Lotus Symphony is a free and open source office suite with word processor, spreadsheet and presentation, and can be downloaded at http://symphony.lotus.com.
Atty. Richard Pascual enlightened the crowd next on the legal nettles of OSS licensing. It's good to know too that the highest judiciary, Supreme Court of the Philippines, has treaded on OSS by implementing the use of OpenOffice in its realm.
Congressman Teddy CasiƱo, the vigilant lawmaker and proponent of F/OSS Bill, unfortunately couldn't make it to the event. His solidarity message was read by 8layer's Deng Silorio.
Capping the morning session was Mr. Cecilio Tuanquin of Intel Philippines who candidly shared how Intel Chips are made and presented to the SFDers the current trends on server and mobile technology giving a much needed enlightenment of how F/OSS can greatly take on the company's challenge on costs and security.
Much to be credited too were the SPCF Dancers and CITE Dance Troupe for doing perky and lively numbers during some of the talk intervals.
Who says Technical Talks does not spell Fun, Fulfilling and Fantastic?
Simultaneously ongoing was the first set of the Technical Talks that actually started at about 11am at the 3rd Floor of the SPCF CITE Bldg. Every SFD Celebration needs to provide a brief yet meaty presentation about Intro to Linux and F/OSS. And everyone from the room was energized and got a good headstart on Linux as the speakers Mr. Erwin Galang (former 8lien) and our very own Mr. Meric Mara gave the listeners more than a good impression of F/OSS and Linux.
Originally, SPCF prepared two computer labs for the Tech Talks, one for the Install Fest and Makersmeet and one for the Programming Contest.
After most of the SFDers came back from lunch, it turned out that two computer labs was not enough to accommodate all 200 of them so the crowd all wanting to hear about Linux, Kahel and Web Development was sent back to the SPCF Theater.
Simultaneous with the plenary session for Tech Talks was the Tech Talks at the 3rd Flr, the Install Fest and the Programming Contest.
The Vibrance of Linux and Kahel
The bespectacled Joel Bryan Juliano of Team 8lien did a crowd-pleasing headstart. There were no idle moments as he made his way into showing the vibrance of the new Pinoy distro Kahel – an Arch-based OS with Gnome environment. He dubbed it as the “pinakamalupit na OS” which elicited an ecstatic roar and thunderous applause from the crowd.
The basics of Web Development was tackled next by the R&D Group of Team 8lien.
Gregarious Allan “Henyo” de Guzman, who became unexplainably softspoken, shared on Apache web server application. Alec Joseph “Agi” Rivera, whose birthday coincides with the celebration of SFD, was surely himself in confidence as he discussed PHP programming tips. Wynell Mark “Nel” Patricio's engaging talk on MySQL came afterwards and shared with gusto the features and elements of the open source database. And last (but definitely not the least), Vedasto Rey “Koya” Portugal, also the Head of Team 8lien R&D, wowed the crowd as he demonstrated on Symfony, an Open Source framework which, surprisingly, no one from the crowd is familiar with.
Two becomes one roomful
Just after lunch, registration attendants at the computer lab hall informed me that there were only two registrants for the Kahel Install Fest. I shrugged it off and openly welcomed the anticipation of the two registrants. As Roz Vargas started setting up the demo unit, people started coming in and filling up the room. To my surprise too, a number of them were already die-hard Linux users and system administrators making it easier for us to discuss the tekky side of Kahel while showing them how fast and easy the installation is. Not to mention, the boot up process.
Sure enough, technical questions arose. Good thing, our young and preppy CTO Meric Mara was just around the corner to help us answer some of them. Thanks, boss! :)
The elite Astmasters
A few doors from where we are was another roomful of bodies waiting for the Open Source Telephony (Asterisk and 8ix Zenith CE) talk to start. Since we “borrowed” our CTO in the Install Fest, they had to wait a few minutes. Also, some of those in the Install Fest were registrants to Asterisk and 8ix Zenith CE discussion.
It was an elite discussion and Q&A on Telephony and IP-PBX but was made practical, interesting and learning-filled.
Where the challengers are
At computer lab 3, seven brave “geeky” souls were all solemn and serious. It was the room for the Programming Contest with Koya Rey and Rosa Ang overseeing the contestants.
As opposed to the enthusiastic profundity at the Telephony discussion, the emphatic curiosity at the Install Fest and the cheery ambiance at the Theater, Lab 3 was all astute quietude.
After taking some photo evidence (on tiptoes!), I went to get myself a reinvigorating cup of caffeine. :)
A day where everyone is FREE!
As the day clocked to late afternoon, the audience at the plenary were still in high spirits embalmed with precious learnings on F/OSS. They were later joined by the programming contestants, install fest attendees and telephony talk attendees.
Enlivening the crowd (since the morning session by the way) was Mr. Moderator, Mark Castro, who facilitated on getting ALL SFDers to join the “Bring Me” game and “How well did you listen” Q&A. He was not failed by the group as each able-bodied ran to him and to the stage to take on his challenge.
Gifts, freebies and souvenirs courtesy of the event partners, IBM Phils., Intel Phils., and PLDT CBG were given away before the final hour ticked in.
Who else would have taken home the most freebies but the programming contest winners!
Our hats off to top placer Wilfredo Vallente, Marielle Faye Garcia in second and Jan Marie Galban in third. Kudos too to Jheric de Guzman, Norwin Lacson, Richard Lim and Denn Mark Balingit who surely did well.
If the Source is with you, the Force is with you
Team 8lien in partnership with Sytems Plus College Foundation (special thanks to SPCF MIS Director Raymund Lazarito) made a mark that day.
The 400 attendees to the “IT's Good to be FREE!” SFD09 event was but a speck in the local population but a fine start in reaching a good number to evangelizing the benefits and values of F/OSS.
Software Freedom Day 2009 is but one of those days when F/OSS is a highlight and part of our sharing. But for Team 8layer, Everyday is just another day; living, innovating and making the most out of IT.
http://picasaweb.google.com/8layer8liens/2009SoftwareFreedomDay#
http://picasaweb.google.com/8layer8liens/2009SoftwareFreedomDay02#
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
8ix Zenith CE was at the 8layer's Celebration of the Software Freedom Day 2009 at the Systems Plus College Foundation, Angeles, Pampanga, PH
IT Professionals and Faculty Members and even students from Schools and Institutions from Pampanga, Tarlac, Bulacan,. Baguio, Subic and Olongapo appreciated the Asterisk Technology more (which most of us know is another kind of "animal" when it comes to programming) when 8ix Zenith CE was also presented to them.
8ix Zenith CE, the Asterisk-Derived IP Telephony Solution was discussed at the Tech Talks by 8layer's CTO, Meric B. Mara wherein he provided background on the OLD Telephony System to the emergence of the IP Telephony. Features of Asterisk Based and Derived Apps were of course discussed and the benefits that were raised were on cost-reduction, enhancement of communication, applicability and scalibility.
The audience were daunting and very participative that made the discussion livelier and more informative.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Kahel OS. Do IT Right.
Dear Fellow Open Source Enthusiasts and Linux Advocate cum "Passionistas":
The Advent of one of the Filipino Contributions has dawned to the IT World. Kahel OS.
At first, i wish to write "... The Advent of one of the significant and relevant Filipino Contributions has dawned to the IT World. But it would only be significant if IT's goal will be attained and relevant if users may realize IT's value in the long run.
Kahel OS is not just an Operating System so to speak. IT is not just a Technology Product on a Linux and Open Source Platform added to the thousands of FREE Distros already available in the community. IT does not explicitly want to be different or to be set apart from the rest. However, among others, we simply would like Kahel OS (just like our team) to be the embodiment of our IT Values and Philosophy.
Kahel OS is based on Arch Linux. http://www.archlinux.org.
Kahel OS believes that there is no Distro War. Kahel OS would not like to attempt to break barriers. But believes that there is an Open Source Apps just for everyone: for one's taste and choice. Kahel OS does not impose; "that this one is better than that one"...Instead, IT's banner and call is "To reinforce to schools and students, organizations and individuals and advocates (organized and not) that IT is also ALL about VALUES, not just computers and operating systems". Kahel OS is Simple yet Flexible, Free yet Strictly adhering to Standards,Open yet Closed to those with a closed view, Cool and Light yet Powerful on Applications. Kahel OS is Encouraging learning and sharing. That IT will truly flourish if we complement our natural and nurtured skills and knowledge with the understanding of why one is gifted
We cannot distinguish distinctly who should use Kahel OS or who is it for yet we darn know that:
1. Kahel OS is not for the lazy and ignorant.
2. Kahel OS is not for those who do not like to learn (spare a few days) and is not a fan of innovation.
3. Kahel Os is not for those who only dares try it, may be dissatisfied but does not give his/ her comment or input on why he is dissatisfied/ dislikes it, so as IT could improve.
4. Kahel OS is not for those who prefers pirated OS because he/ she does not like to purchase one.
5. Kahel OS is not for those who can spare money for Desktop OS, but could not think of others and spare money for relevant causes on learning and education (because he/she thinks, it's not his/her job, it's the Government's.)
6. Kahel OS is not for those with a closed mind and perspective.
7. Kahel OS is not for those Filipinos who believes that a Filipino can only make it if you're not in the Philippines.
8. Kahel OS is not for those who are already happy and content with their current Desktop OS and you feel it's not worth keeping your options OPEN.
But then again, you aske me "Why should one try out Kahel OS?"
Here are 8 reasons: (i'll also try to express its benefits)
1. It is based on a Rolling Release Model - Genuine Upstream Source
Benefit. This means that you do not need to wait for months or for the next OS release to be updated with the newest applications available. (1) effortless updates of applications, and, (2) lesser time and MBs spent on getting the most recent available application and kernel releases.
2. Utilizing the Newest Linux Kernel 2.6.30.
Benefit. This means that there will be more devices/ drivers that could be supported. WIMAX is one of them (please read this separately for your appreciation). WIMAX of which is an emerging broadband wireless standard supported and included in this kernel. Fast Boot. Boot up is under 10 seconds (Environment Friendly).
3. Kahel is using all the default and suggested applications for Gnome, which makes everything tightly integrated. Default Gnome Applications for Office, Multi-Media and Web- Browsing.
Benefit. This is most likely appreciated by already Linux Users but for the layman, necessary applications are already in place upon boot up of the Kahel OS. However, you can still be able to install other Linux Applications.
4. Supports for latest NILFS2, BTRFS by default. Support for Next Generation Technologies.
Benefit.This implies that applications are provided with improved filesystem scalibility and performance.
5. Utilizing Pacman and Package Kit
Benefit. With the Pacman and Package Kit, easy installation of applications is enabled.
6. Source Code Installation-Capable.
Benefit. This simply implies that if you have favorite applications (you need not compile), all you need to do is type yourt (with the application name) on the console and voila, your application is installed and ready to use.
7. All applications is i686 and x86-64 optimized.
Benefit. With the availability of the Technology of the New CPU's in the market, special features such as multi-threading are put to use and maximized because all applications are compiled on i686. Thus, Applications run very fast. No backward compatibility bottleneck.
8. Most of all, IT is FREE as IT is our gift to all. IT is an innovation of a dedicated and passionate team that espouses the same values and philosophy Kahel OS has. The team, 8liens.
8liens believes that IT (Information Technology) is not a world apart from our daily living, its transcendental path is towards eliminating mediocrity, harnessing skills, alleviating our economic strength as a whole while fostering nationhood as we search for our global niche.
Kahel OS does not like to sound preachy, and does want to teach without a cause, but Kahel OS is for sure here, When you need IT. Do IT right.
Kahel Desktop OS to join Software Freedom
It will be an event that will test how "tasty" citrus Kahel will be when it takes center event during the Software Freedom Day celebration at Angeles City, Pampanga (Philippines).
The SFD09 event dubbed "IT's Good to be FREE" is hosted by 8layer Technologies, Inc. which also spearheads Kahel's development.
A Kahel Desktop OS Intall Fest is scheduled to happen for the whole duration of the event on September 19, Saturday, from 9am to 5pm at Systems Plus College Foundation, Angeles City. CD installers of Kahel Desktop will also be given away.
Other event details happening during the 8lien-hosted SFD09 are just as enjoyable. For the complete listing of activities and programme, visit http://www.8layertech.com/sfd.
Kahel OS is the only desktop and server Arch-based distro that follows a rolling release schedule, boasts of optimum performance on i686 and x86-64 systems, and has btrfs, nilfs and ext4 filesystems.
IBM Phils., Intel Phils. and PLDT Corporate Business Group are co-hosting the event, too.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Kahel OS is a winner's bet this lucky day of 9s
... and you don't even have to make an out of pocket expense to draw the winning cards!
This is IT! Your winning hand. Your computer's fantasy made real.
Kahel is a Linux™ operating system and desktop utility that promises a radical change on your computing experience, and the ideal hit for personal or business use.
Why use Kahel OS Desktop?
100% Free and Open Source Software
Most press releases would often pitch on the word "FREE" followed by clauses like "for a minimum purchase of", "if you place your order before" or "when you dial now and be the 999th caller".
You'll never see Kahel OS on the Price is Right. Kahel OS is plain FREE. Period.
Simply Effective, Simply Entertaining
Kahel OS gets you organized and productive. Kahel has IT - email, calendar, office suite, multimedia and entertainment.
You also have the freedom to get limitless picks of open source applications - no demowares, no sharewares, no viruses!
IT is Kahel. You can do voice and video calls, connect via social networks, play music or any audio files, watch movies and videos, manage your iPod and organize your photos all right on your desktop. Kahel has IT!
IT is for ALL
As much as we want you to close your Windows, Kahel can still let you run Window-based applications -- without the fearsome Blue Screens of Death! Give your computer the freshest massage to give it a boost.
By running Kahel, you'll know the real meaning of Speed. And yes, even games run fast on Kahel.
IT is a Legacy
Kahel is a dream, a goal and now a fruition. It evolved from the passion to innovate on the available Linux kernel features and integrating these with those we think are "cool-and-dreamy" ones.
Kahel is a gift and a manifestation of the collaborating Filipino spirit that believes in the competence of the global IT community.
As an Open Source Software, Kahel shall therefore maintain to remain FREE OF CHARGE with an active community to support it.
Power your PC with Kahel OS and be one of those who truly lived to make 09.09.09 the luckiest 9 of all time!
Well, at least for your desktop.
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
Six steps to future-proof your telephone system
Posted on ZDNet News: Jul 21, 2009 10:53:05 AM
Imagine if you had the chance to buy a car 10 years ago that included a DVD player, Sirius XM radio, OnStar, automatic parking capabilities and dozens of other advanced features. Chances are you would snap it up in a heartbeat and not think about purchasing a car for years.
In the corporate telephony world, there are choices you can make today that include features and functionality that most companies won’t see or use for years. These same systems are versatile enough to address new technologies that have yet to be developed.
This checklist of 6 ways to future-proof your organization’s phone system investment should help you make a smart decision for your organization today and as it grows.
1. Stay away from VoIP lipstick on a legacy PBX pig
Hardware-based Phone System vendors are losing market share and sales are slumping like never before. Software-based phone solutions are also feeling the pressures of the economy but fared far better than hardware-based solutions over the past quarter.
This trend will likely continue, so hardware-based PBX vendors believe the best way to compete is to start bolting on VoIP capability to their products. What this really does is extend the life of these products for a little while, but they don’t stand a chance against VoIP solutions built from the ground up. Get ahead of the game with a native VoIP system.
2. Consider open source
More and more organizations are running mission-critical parts of their business on open source. What was once thought to be the focus of a small group of uber-geeks has emerged as a viable enterprise option. The open source community boasts many developers, creating the next big breakthroughs. While large organizations may topple (read: Nortel), Open source can live on beyond the corporation. It also delivers cost-savings and avoids vendor lock-in.
3. Alleviate management headaches
Proprietary systems require fancy training and certification. As your organization grows, staff turns over or the company consolidates, you don’t want to be stuck in the constant cycle of costly and time-consuming retraining/certification or having to outsource with a pricey, certification brandishing consultant. Pick a system that offers a simple Web interface, similar to other hardware around the office such as routers, firewalls and other systems in your business.
4. Prepare for success
No one goes into business to fail, but many are not prepared for success. Scalability of your phone system is a critical consideration when making a purchase. You want to select a phone system that doesn’t penalize you for your success; this means one that doesn’t charge you and arm and a leg to add users, or is unable to expand to be as large as you require.
5. Don’t be the only one on the block without the cool technology
Analysts agree that companies are moving towards unified communications, where a single solution can provide access to things like conferencing, faxing, chat, etc. Advanced phone systems can even provide a Google map of the caller’s location, video calling, listen-in functionality (great for training and customer service quality assurance), and integration with your customer relationship management (CRM) and ERP systems, etc. Don’t be left out in the cold as new and powerful tools that can help your employees work more efficiently or communicate more effectively come online. Make sure the system you purchase can seamlessly integrate each of these technologies as well as those not even yet developed by using a widely used integration hooks, like XML.
6. It’s time to get out of here
Mobility is not only a hot buzz word in organizations throughout the world, it’s a reality that companies must face in order to remain competitive. In addition, as a company grows, it’s likely that they will want to open offices in geographically dispersed locations. Whether an employee moves across town or across the country, your organization opens an office in Binghamton or Bangladesh, or your suppliers or tech support are located in China, choose a phone system that doesn’t care where you are. Flexibility is key.
biography
Tristan Degenhardt is director of product marketing for Switchvox at Digium.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Come Celebrate Software Freedom Day 2009 with 8layer and Partners
That though FOSS and Using FOSS is FREE; Learning and Being Learned is PRICELESS.
Together with Systems Plus College Foundation (Angeles,Pampanga), IBM Phils, Intel Phils and PLDT Business Solution Group, we are happy to share the beauty and value of FOSS and the priceless benefits that we will reap using FOSS.
This year is bigger and better as we had more than a month's preparation of planning and organizing the said event. And why is this better than last year?
- We are fortunate to have System Plus College Foundation host this as their new Multi-Purpose Theater. Our Event Partners, are coming as well to grace the event, IBM Phils., INTEL Phils. And PLDT Business Solutions who in one way or another do also have OPEN Source Initiatives.
- There are more events to watch out for like install fest, makersmeet, programming competition. For more details, we also have an official website for this year's Celebration http://www.8layertech.com/sfd
- Likewise, this marks the launch of our homegrown DISTRO's; 8ix Zenith CE and KAHEL OS (CD installers will be distributed for FREE with the generous support of the partners we mentioned)
- And it will be an ALL DAY sharing and gathering of all FOSS lovers from the Region. Students, Faculty from the Academe, Business Sector and Open Source IT Professionals
And even amidst unguided and derailed thoughts and actions, 8layer still always carry the hope and fortitude of a brighter tomorrow.
So, Come and Join the fun-filled activities and sharing at SFD2009; Systems Plus College Foundation at Angeles, Pampanga. For more details and registration, visit http://www.8layertech.com/sfd/
Friday, August 07, 2009
Microsoft Admits Fear of Linux
Microsoft has long pooh-poohed Linux as a desktop competitor. But a recent filing with the Security and Exchange Commission has the company admitting for the first time that Linux represents a significant threat to Windows.
TechFlash reports that in Microsoft's recent annual filing with the SEC, it listed for the first time Ubuntu's maker Canonical, and Linux distributor Red Hat as competitors to its Client division, which makes Windows. Previously, TechFlash says, Red Hat was listed but only as a competitor to its Business and Server & Tools divisions.
In its annual filing, Microsoft warns that Linux is a threat to Windows, particularly in emerging markets and for netbooks. It also warns that Apple is a threat, but it's said that before. The big news is the addition of Linux. Here's what the filing says:
Client faces strong competition from well-established companies with differing approaches to the PC market. Competing commercial software products, including variants of Unix, are supplied by competitors such as Apple, Canonical, and Red Hat. Apple takes an integrated approach to the PC experience and has made inroads in share, particularly in the U.S. and in the consumer segment. The Linux operating system, which is also derived from Unix and is available without payment under a General Public License, has gained some acceptance, especially in emerging markets, as competitive pressures lead OEMs to reduce costs and new, lower-price PC form-factors gain adoption. Partners such as Hewlett-Packard and Intel have been actively working with alternative Linux-based operating systems.
The filing goes on to add that Windows is also threatened by platforms and devices that might curtail demand for PCs. And it notes browser alternatives that could hurt it as well. Here's what the filing says:
TechFlash notes that Google, Apple, Opera, and Android are new in this section; last year only Mozilla was listed.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Catch the 8ix Telephony Solution Suite at SMX CCAP Event from July 15-16, 2009!
At the PLDT booth where there are varied platforms and business solutions to fit and address your business requirements, 8layer also showcased 8ix Televantage and 8ix Zenith.
Also visit the PLDT Booth to take a look on the full managed service provided by PLDTSNAP (http://www.pldt.com/snap!)
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Our 8ix Zenith CE Forum
Here's just a simply cool great news!
Let us organize and send in our inputs, comments and ways to hasten and meaningfully accent our collaboration.
http://www.8layertech.com/8ix/forum
Let's make it happen,
Meric
Friday, July 03, 2009
8ix Zenith Community Edition
True to its name, 8ix Zenith has just gone celestial, leaping bounds and borders to finally become fluid and FREE!
This is the hottest brew: 8ix Zenith Community Edition, flavored with the most essential spices to resolve the daunting boundaries of telephony communications: cost, customization and cliches.
Down with the Cost
No need for a calculator. When we say free, it means F-R-E-E. Just imagine, no gigantic recurring monthly bills, no proprietary license to subscribe in, no hard-nosed i-am-the-only-guy-who-can-troubleshoot-your-system to enlist support for.
Done with Customization
8ix Zenith CE has done that for you. Easy does it with the 8ix Zenith CE web-based management system. As long as you know your numbers and alphabet (and some telephony terms to your advantage), you're all set!
But then, aren't we only limited by our imagination? Adding more features or enhancing some is a sure go. Download 8ix Zenith CE and give it a go. You may also opt to receive updates by joining the 8ix Zenith community.
Deal with the Cliches
| It's here, It's FREE. What are you waiting for? |
When it's free, there has got to be a catch. Well, the catch here is... maybe, we're out of our minds? Are we really risking to compete with the already established telephony solutions provider, but without the golden pricey tags?
In the 8lien world, when ITs FREE, everyone gets to test and taste. The only cliche that never fails.
Are these the same features that your PBX has?
- Unlimited Locals
- VoIP Solution (Voice Over IP gateway)
- Call Conferencing
- IVRS (Interactive Voice Response Service)
- Call Recording
- Call Forward on Busy (Follow Me)
- Voicemail (VM to Email)
- Call Transfer
- Call Waiting
- Call Pick up
- Music on Hold
- Time Condition
- Caller ID
- Ring All
Can it do...
- Backup and Restore
- Outbound and Inbound Management
- User Management
- Customized Voice Prompts
- Echo Cancellation
- PIN Set
- Call Screening and Blacklist
Does it have...
- E-Fax
- Virtual Server
- Paging and Intercom
- Video Conferencing
And if you are not yet technically challenged...
- Extensions Management (IAX/SIP/ZAP)
- SIP, IAX, Analog and Digital Trunking
- Configurable to any Phone Medium
- Flexible Dial Plan
If we didn'make it any hotter, how else can we interest you to try FREE?
Exchange news, updates and tidbits about 8ix Zenith. Join us!
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Collaborate with our new offering to Communicate: The 8ix Zenith CE
The 8ix Zenith CE is one rare manifestation of a Filipino Collaboration and of our advocacy on the robust and prowess of the Open Source Technologies. Thus, our simple and sincere offering to all.
8ix Zenith CE spells a new drive of an asterisk-derived IP Telephony Solution. A Distro that is on an easy mode for those who are in need of a ready to deploy IP PBX Solution and the developers telephony platform for those who would want to challenge himself/ herself with more vibrant and exciting features that you can think of and integrate.
8ix Zenith CE is here and FREE, what are you waiting for?
Our Google Group:
http://groups.google.com/group/8ixzenith
Our Official Website:
http://www.8layertech.com/
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Ya Betta Watch Out...
8ix Zenith CE Telephony System is coming to your Town!
Yes, Team 8layer is not only sharing you a sip but a cup of your own coffee to experience our own brew of our Asterisk Derived Telephony Solution.

It's Hot!
Fresh from the brew, you can download our 8ix Zenith CE (Community Edition) Distro derived from Asterisk 1.6.2 this July 2009. No need to install a separate operating system and application.
It's Bolder!
8ix Zenith CE is a distro bundled on top of our KahelOS (this one is a must to watch out for too!). Our team has innovated it, in such a way, that it is going to be the Developers Choice. Why? Because why would we make one, if it's not going to be better? Powerful; optimized to give your machine more transcoding prowess. Feature-Rich; efax and video conferencing are some glits of the system. Isn't that something to look forward to?
Just the Right Taste!
And for those Asterisk Enthusiasts and Developers, you can do and have your own blend and mix to suit your exquisite palate. Nothing is too strong or too sweet, make it your own Distro!
The 8ix Zenith CE: Communication Galore, What's next is up to you!
Saturday, June 20, 2009
PHP Programmers: On the Loose?
Imagine just in the past ten years, Schools and Colleges mushroomed with IT Courses and produced graduates, tons of graduates.. And just where are they? How come our IT Industry needs are not apples with the quality and skills that these Academes produce? Care to respond to this?...(please do)
So, here we are at 8layer also in need of PHP Programmers. And not just plainly or extremely adept with it, but those would like to teach others so that together we can fill the gap and probably the lack and get rid of those “bug-full” and cluttered programming.... “yon bang may sense of attribution at contribution yong programming skill mo... yong may sense of fulfillment at sense of achievement ang programming skill that you were endowed with.
Anyways, if you are what you need – a PHP PROGRAMMER WITH knowledge on:
Programming Languages: PHP, HTML, Java, Javascript, Java servlets, XML
Database Management Systems: MySQL, PostgreSQL, etc.
Operating Systems: Linux
Opensource Editing Tools (nano,vi,pico,quanta plus, etc.)
Essential Qualifications:
-Analytical and with above average problem solving skills
-Attentive to design and technical details
-Has an open attitude (as we say, lives, breathes, eats and drinks open
source)
-Willingness to adapt to new environment and share knowledge and skills
-Good team player
-Has above average communication skills
-Must have an excellent and positive work ethics
Education:
Computer Science or Any Course related to Software Engineering or
Related Work Experience
Others:
Musically Inclined
He/She Drinks...
So, if you're interested, first visit our website www.8layertech.com (para may masagot ka sa unang tanong sa interview :-) ) , then interest us with who you are and what you can become . So much for that, email us your simple desire and whims and your programming frustrations and also
your profile to careers@8layertech.com
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
The BAIT for that HTF (Hard-to-find) Genuine Open Source IT Master
* Whose sense of Class is defined by COMPLETING THE JOB with no excuses, no ifs, no buts.
* Whose sense of Taste is determined by his/her passion, drive and goals to learn, do and be more, that what he/she is Now.
* Whose sense of Style is cultured, nourished and grounded with his/her belief that in giving back to society, one's legacy remains.
At 8layer, our strength is characterized by the people; their skills and values. We believe, That IT is all about People.
As we say, Many has conquered but only a handful shall linger to serve ITs purpose.
http://www.8layertech.com
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Paglaki ko gusto kong Maging Manager, Pero hindi yong Follow-Up Manager...
Naisip ko lang noong bata pa ako. Madalas ay ako ang pinapakolekta ng Mama ko sa kanyang mga pautang sa tindahan. May kodigo pa akong palara ng sigarilyo at gumagamit ng bolpen na madalas ay sinusunog ko pa ang tuktok or parteng panulat nito upang lumabas ang tinta. Palagay ko ay maayos ko namang nagagawa kahit papaano yung inaatas sa akin ng aking mahal na ina.
Ganito siste ko noon, umagang umaga palang tatakbo na ako sa kalye at magbabahay bahay. Nakatsinelas at may dalang plastic ng yelo na nakaipit o nakasukbit sa aking short bilang lagayan baryang nakolekta. Uuwi ako non na may maayos na koleksyon at balita o report kung bakit ang ilang kapitbahay namin ay hindi nakapagbayad. Naaalala ko na ginagawa ko itong aktibidad na ito tuwing sabado at linggo.
May mga pagkakataon na nababawasan ang aking trabaho na ito sa tuwing may mga kapitbahay kami na kusang pumupunta sa tindahan namin at nagbabayad ng kanilang mga pinangakong utang dala ang kanilang kopyang palara at papapirmahan sa mama ko o minsan sa akin na nangangahulugang bayad na sila.
Naalala ko lang itong kwento na ito. Kasi di pa uso ang computer noon. Marahil masasabi ko na mataas pa ang pagkukusa ng mga tao noon at hindi sila “complacent” kung baga may sariling palo. May mga mangilan-ngilan din naman na talagang pasaway at talagang kailangan pang puntahan sa kanilang mga bahay o i-follow-up para lang tumupad sa kanilang mga pangako.... na minsan kung hindi makakatupad..nakakatawang NAGTATAGO TALAGA sila sa kanilang pagkakautang o napakaraming samut saring ALIBI na tila baga naghihiraman sila ng idadahilan linggo linggo.
Dangan kasi ngayon sa modernong panahon, marahil ay hindi nabago lalo pa sa mga usaping trabaho. Namana marahil ng ilang “professional” ang mga ganitong gawi. Magtago o Mag-Alibi. Pero meron din namang nabibilang na nagkukusa at alam ang kanilang mga obligasyon. May ilan naman na tahasang pilit na pinaninindigan kahit i-follow-up o hindi ang patuloy na pagiging pasaway at pag-suway.
Sa mundo kasi ng TRABAHO. Work ikanga sa ingles. Malaki ang pagkakaiba nito sa JOB o sa tagalog, namamasukan.
Sa akin kasing pagkakaunawa, may saysay ang salitang trabaho kapag ito ay tapos at may impact sa mga taong “naratnan” nitong trabahong ginawa mo. Pero ang pagpasok o Job ay pumapasok ka lang dahil may suweldo ka at kailangan mong pakainin ang mga anak mo o di kaya'y magbayad ng upa etcetera, kahit di mo tapos ang iniatang sa iyo, walang pag-aanalisa, de kahon, at kahit walang dating sa iyo ang mga ipinagagawa o proyektong kinasasangkutan mo... ayun kaya ka burnt out o talagang wala ka lang pakialam.
Ano bang mga obserbasyon o rekomendasyon ko sa pag-resolba nito?
Marahil ang “kapaki-pakinabang na Checklist” checklist na nagagamit hindi yung checklist for the sake na may listahan ngunit walang pagmonitor ng mga ito at pagbibigay ng mga resulta.
ang maging “analytical at critical thinker at tunay na problem solver” .
Kaya dapat, maging ganado sa pag-gawa. Sabi nga sa mundo ng mga programmer “hanggang may momentum” laban at wag hahayaang mawala ito harangan man ng sibat. Kasi ito yung pinaka mahirap ibalik pag nawala. Ending..ikaw ang talo. Pero hindi lang sa programming ito, kahit sa anong trabaho, kailangan ng sigla at buhay. Yun bang passionate ka at kahit simpleng gawain lagyan mo ng creativity at innovation... tawag nga namin dito sa 8layer e LIBOG. Pag hindi malibog ang gawa mo e malamang supot.
Ang sa akin, ang realisasyon ko patungkol sa usaping follow-up.
Basta ako ang masasabi ko lang at may kasabihan kaming mga MARA na, “Ang batang nangongolekta ng pautang, Paglaki, ayaw maging follow-up manager.” YUN!
Friday, April 03, 2009
Letter From the CEO: At FOUR We Know There Is MORE.
Time is rather so swift that i got to lift my butt to make way and turn a leaf of another year that has delightedly pass.
Yes, we have just passed our four years of being able to sincerely take on to serve our clients and trade partners and with the determination towards innovation, first among others is ourself and as a team.
Taking on the HAT of an 8lien (what we call an individual 8layer), is never an easy task and not a joke at all. Just imagine, having to be responsible for the business of a client.
But the wacky, fun-filled and all out party last night with our team, joined by our friends, partners, clients and colleagues in the industry shows the other side of our nature when we are not in front of our computers (silent, focused and undisturbed).
At FOUR,
We are still rather young, like a child, learning to ride a bike or shoot the ball in the basket... YET never stopping until we get to ride the bike with no hands or be a basketball pro “ala Kobe Bryant”.
At FOUR,
When we passed THREE, we know what/where we want to be. And growing up now that got pass FOUR, meant that we must know what we need to be, to be who and where we want to be. (magulo ba?, hindi makulit lang.)
At FOUR,
We will focus and aim that each 8lien should live and have our CORE VALUES:
COMPETENCE [complete to compete]
MATURITY [sincerity on maturity]
INNOVATION [masturbation towards innovation]
At FOUR we know there is More;
More to the essence of growing up and that though growing old is inevitable we got to make use of our time and talents wisely.
More of touching lives and making people discern that IT won't work for them, if they won't even care about IT or their work.
More of giving of who we are through our innovative ways, whether it be solutions or just plainly talking to you about what Open Source Advocacy can do for you or your organization.
More to life than just gadgets and computers, that IT is made up of people (flesh, blood, thinking and feeling), who wants IT to work for you.
Let me share with you some exciting and notable things that happened too as we got to 4:
-Introduced IBM Lotus Foundation in the Philippines and our Kuya Rey Got his certification on IBM DB2.
-Software Freedom and Evangelized Linux and Opensource in the Philippines with PLDT and URSolution
-Personally met the founder of Digium and the Creator of Asterisk at during the Asterconference in Malaysia. (brought home 2 E1 cards as well from the raffle)
-Rebootcamp and Zambales-bonding experience and strategized /understand SWOT towards our Fully Meshed Topology
-Finalist on Phil Web Awards and One of our government projects via PLDT Snap won the Peoples Choice Award.
-Continuously contribute some of our software to FOSS community ; Charozt,Mail8 and Clix
-We got a new Pearl Drumset for our Music Room
-We were joined by one of the Hard Core Linux Enthusiast and Advocate as a Senior Programmer and part of our RND Team. He aims to promote Open Source in our Country and imbibed in him to be an Innovator and not just as a User as well.
At FOUR there is MORE and we will Keep 'Em Coming...
Meric B.Mara
CEO









