If you build it, they will surf

Article Abstract:

Oracle Corp's plan to develop a low-cost Internet computer has met with almost universal enthusiasm. IBM is also planning to develop a network-centric system priced under $500. In reality, a $500 computer with the capabilities of today's powerful desktop machines cannot be built. It is impossible to develop a powerful system with three drive bays, expansion slots, a keyboard, mouse, speakers and a video card for $500. Such a system will require a new approach to computing. The new system will not employ a huge operating system and 90MB office suites. The computer will not be an information-creation device, but will function as a telecommunications receiver. The Internet computer will probably lack storage, include 4MB to 8MB of RAM, and connect to a television set. A CD drive could be included for game playing and the system will be used to access the World Wide Web.

Electronic computers, Computer integrated systems design, Editorial, Internet, Network computer, Network computers, Technology overview

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Seventeen years in the life of a CD

Article Abstract:

CD-ROM technology began in 1979 when executives from Philips, after failing to find a shared vision for digital technology in Los Angeles, visited Tokyo where they met with executives from Sony. As the technology has developed, it has also saturated the market and is now being challenged by new technologies such as digital videodisc (DVD). DVD is also referred to as digital versatile disc because of its flexibility and the potential it may store up to 18GB. Though DVD poses a challenge to CD-ROM and CD-R technologies, it will not eliminate them in the coming years because of the product life cycle it must live through itself. The World Wide Web may also pose a challenge to the CD-ROM medium as many more people use the Internet to deliver and gather information.

Computer peripheral equipment, not elsewhere classified, Management, Technology development, CD-ROM disks, Philips Gloeilampenfabrieken N.V., Computer history, History of Computing, CD-ROM Technology

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