Let’s face it all computers crash. There are so many points of failure, that there is not one computer, which will not crash. Sure, we can get close, triple 9’s, maybe even quadruples, but not 100.00%. However, are there any mechanical devices we have that wonÂ’t eventually fail?
The difference is, that you and I can’t afford to keep our computers even in the high 90%. Once again, there are many points of failure, and many of them open for our manipulation. Imagine if we tinkered with out stoves as much as do our computers. You see, I want to install a super toaster attachment to my stove, and its stove plug and play compatible. Then I’ll probably burn down the house after I choose the wrong cable or driver, One of the main powerful features of computers are their flexibility, but it is also perhaps one of its main sources of trouble.
I propose a new style of system, the retro-system. The retro system is a limited functionality appliance that has superior network interoperability. These reduction function computers are engineered to have no moving parts. They come pre-installed with all of the functionality the need or ever expected to have. I imagine that 90% of Microsoft Word users ever need 40% of the functionality. There will floppy, no CD, and no DVD. With the exception of a data area for work, the OS will be completely protected. The user will not be able to configure anything other than minimal basic non-invasive options.
The retro-system will become the first true information appliance. You turn it on and it instantly is available for use. With no configurability, booting becomes elementary; you only need to have a limited OS kernel.
If we wanted hardware peripherals, then manufacturers would need to build to generic specifications, so that the generic support capable from the retro-appliance can be met. This is the only way to enable stereo-like functionality. The high-fidelity system can consist of many different peripherals, but they only require the proper connection in order for them to work. Tape player, no problem; reel to reel, no problem, VCR, also no problem. All of these devices may offer different functionality, but where they interconnect, there is no comprise.
Is this level of standardization possible? It is only possible, if the market drives the effort. As long as we continue to accept software and systems that are prone to failure, then we can never expect manufacturers to change. We provide the fuel to keep the cycle going: better hardware means better software; better software means better hardware, and so on. Sure no computer manufacturer wants to make an information appliance that lasts 5 to 10 years instead of 2, but IÂ’m sure my wife would want one. If IÂ’m not mistaken, I believe millions of other people would too.
