1. Introduction

All wisdom may flow from above, but most IT products come in one way or another from Taiwan. The Computex show in Taipei is where the IT gear companies that you know and love (or loathe) come to make the deals that result in the products that you find in your local or Internet retailer.

Though the show has a decidedly computer focus, computers aren't very useful without networks to connect to and there were plenty of vendors and products to keep me busy!

Obilgatory show floor shot, Opening day. Most of the attendees were still stuck in registration!

Given that the show's primary focus is on OEM / ODM business, most of this report will focus on trends and "insider" info vs. actuaI retail product descriptions. I'm sure I saw many of the products that will appear on store shelves later this year, I just don't know what name will be on their boxes!