Computer Bytes - No. 7 Welcome to the Future! If you haven't seen Microsoft's new 'Surface' Computer, you are in for a big surprise. Just like the movie 'Minority Report', the user is able to interact with the device using only their hands. This device is not like the touch screen computers used in restaurants; it is a whole new concept for computing and not intended to replace your traditional computer. The fluid action of Surface is achieved through the use of five cameras and an integrated 30-inch screen which records motion on the table's surface. These cameras are near-infrared and due to the fact that the entire surface of Surface is bathed in light the use of traditional cameras would not produce the desired effect. The cameras, located below the acrylic surface of the table, can read nearly infinite number of simultaneous touches - limited only by processing power. Surface has been optimized for 52 touches - enough for four people to use all 10 fingers at once. Surface can detect WiFi (Wireless) enabled cameras placed on the table and will immediately download the photos. The best way to describe the download is to say the photos 'spill out' out of the camera onto the table where they can be sorted, resized and edited by hand. Right now this device is being produced solely for commercial use; however, I would imagine it won't be too many years before we are able to have this futuristic device in our homes. If you would like to see and experience Surface for yourself visit this link http://www.microsoft.com/surface/. Moncrief Web2 Home Page Moncrief Web Design Computer Bytes Index Web Design | Search Engine Optimization | Site Maintenance & Management | Request Information | About Us ~ Sample Sites Send Us an Email | Home Page Copyright 2007 MWD. All rights reserved. Computer Bytes articles may not be reprinted, published, quoted, copied, or used in any manner whatsoever without the expressed written permission of David Moncrief.