NEC has introduced a new product that will replace the standard time-card punching machines that were all the rage in the 1950s. The NeoFace takes a picture of you when you start work in the morning and allows access to a locker room. The machine then keeps track of how long you've worked, and it can decide whether or not you are allowed to get your clothes and leave. The under-the-desk cam and hidden employee shower camera attachments are obviously sold separately.
Acme Systems is shipping a new computer case in the shape of the Linux penguin mascot "Tux." This computer case is perfect for convincing members of the opposite sex that you'll never be ready for a relationship with anything other than a plastic penguin computer. Unless you're just a big penguin buff with the sultry voice of Morgan Freeman. If so, well, then you're golden.
Microsoft hosts an internal trade show each year to showcase new products that will probably never make it onto store shelves. The shining star this year was easily the Dance Dance Revolution-style interface that allows users to step on a large pad to view their picture albums and email. I also assume a secretary can use the pad to dial 911 when Jim from Accounting collapses while trying to stomp out a quick email.
Matrox has just announced the Extio F1400 which is an external graphics unit that can connect to the main computer through fiber-optics and can support up to 4 displays. The idea is for all the peripherals to be seperated from the computer by up to 250 meters so that you can have your computer in one room and then your keyboard, mouse, etc in another. Which is great, because I've always wanted to store my computer in my bathroom but use it in the attic. I like to think outside the box.
A UK-based company called Powerdesk plan to showcase three products next month that integrate computers directly into the desk. The company builds PCs from leading brands, such as Dell and HP, directly into the furniture. Each desk includes the PC manufacturer's onsite warranty. All controls, including a fully integrated CD/DVD drive and USB ports, are embedded within the work surface and placed for maximum convenience. The approach of building PCs into desks makes ports more conveniently located, and eliminates the clutter of the CPU and cables, according to the company.
It's a cool idea, but it's a lot easier to spill water and bump into a desk than a tiny computer.
Companies shouldn't tempt me to eat their electronic equipment. You don't even want to know about the time I took a bite out of my TV. Let's just say there was a lot of electricity involved and maybe the soiling of underwear.