Japan sets sights on winning lead in new computers; field dominated by U.S.; goal is software that allows thousands of processors to operate in tandem

Article Abstract:

The Japanese Government plans an effort to master the technology known as 'massive parallel processing,' which uses combinations of thousands of processors to solve complicated problems such as recognizing images; translating spoken languages; and tracking things that come in multitudes, from gene pools to incoming missiles. Japanese plans in this area are included in the Japanese Government's first assessment of how it should follow up on its 'Fifth Generation' project, which aimed at the creation of computers that reason. The Fifth Generation project, which has existed for nine years, was purposed to establish the fundamentals of 'intelligent' machines, but a shift to parallel processing seems to indicate that early goals were too ambitious. Japan's new effort will focus on hardware that is relatively simple, but software that runs such systems will be enormously complex.

Research, Computers, Japan, Digital computers, Artificial intelligence, International competition (Economics), Parallel processing, Japanese Competition, Government Funding, Fifth Generation, Government aid

---

Japan's scratch-pad computers: handwriting is in; keyboards are out

Article Abstract:

Portable computers are being developed that use a form of touch screen for input instead of the phobia-inducing keyboard. Touch screens that use a pen or stylus are especially useful for languages that use ideographs, such as Japanese. Sony Corp and Canon Inc offer two such machines. The Sony Palmtop and Canon AI Note are examples of notebook-sized computers that turn users' writings into rows of computer type. Electronic sketches are also printed out as if the drawings were created on a microcomputer. Introduction of the machines on the Japanese market could provide an incentive to novices to learn the keyboardless system. Japan, with a population about half the size of the US, expects only 1.6 million computers to be sold in 1990; in the US, that figure is 12 million.

Innovations, Handheld computers, Microcomputers, Digitizer, Digitizers, Product introduction, Touch screens, Microcomputer, Hand-Held Computers, New Technique, Handwriting, Touch Screen

---

Intel set to show new chip: smaller size to aid in new computers

Article Abstract:

Intel Corp introduces a three-chip set of microprocessors that consolidates nearly a score of separate chips. The new chip set, introduced in Japan, will be especially useful in making notebook and 'palmtop' computers, to be developed by Japanese manufacturers. The key to the new chip set is the 386 SL microprocessor, code named Genesis. It incorporates much of the circuitry needed to build an IBM 'clone.' The 386 SL is noted for resolving a significant development problem: the device is specifically designed to use less power, having various built-in power-saving features such as a 'clock' that shuts off power consumption when the chip is not in use.

Semiconductors and related devices, Semiconductor industry, Microprocessor, CPUs (Central processing units), Intel Corp., INTC, Marketing, Equipment and supplies, Microprocessors, Market Penetration, Chip Set

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: Student says his error crippled computers. From hacker to symbol: U.S. officials hope one man's punishment will say that computer jokes are crimes
• Abstracts: Resignation is expected at Apple: president of products would be 2d official to leave in 2 weeks. A quirky loner goes mainstream; Apple strives to be like Sony and I.B.M., but it could sacrifice its innovative soul
• Abstracts: Market place: a turning point for chip makers. I.B.M. chief issues threat on U.S. tariff: high duty on screens may result in further overseas production
• Abstracts: In the latest type technology, an echo of Gutenberg: Adobe's new software allows unlimited varieties of weights, widths and styles
• Abstracts: Truckers swap CB's for satellites. Tiny Tonga seeks satellite empire in space. Satellite TV's appeal to Comsat

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.