Surface Computing/ Seamless Interface

1. Surface Computing/ Seamless Interface Elaine Bain DMS 546

2. Surface Computing • 2001: Microsoft researchers Steve Bathiche and Andy Wilson developed idea of an interactive table • 2003: 1st prototype was presented to Bill Gates for approval • 2007: Interactive tabletop device was built that seamlessly brings both the physical and virtual worlds into one • The table is built with wireless devices using Bluetooth and WI-FI technology (RIFD-Radio Frequency Identification will come later) • Designed to match up with wireless objects placed on the table • Multitouch screen is used like the technology behind the iPhone (no keyboard or mouse needed) Note: There were 85 prototypes built before the final coffee table look was established

3. Surface Computing • Touch based graphical user interface • Dynamic interface that can recognize multiple objects that are placed on the surface and distinguish the difference between them- two cell phones to compare features or prices • Allows manipulation and direct control of digital content like photos- which can be resized bigger or smaller instantly with the touch of a finger(s) • Uses multipoint sensors on the surface to recognize many points of contact so many people can use it at one time

4. Surface Computing • Surface technology attributes • Direct Interaction: interacting with touch instead of a keyboard or mouse • Multitouch: several points of contact at once • Multiuser: many users collaborating at one time • Object Recognition: physical objects have tags to recognize and trigger different responses

5. Software/Hardware • Microsoft operating system of Vista • Intel dual core processor backed by 2GB of RAM • 256MB video card • 5 video infared cameras • 30 inch screen 1024 x 768 resolution (sits 21 inches off ground) • DLP projector • Each unit will cost between $5,000 - $10,000 currently

6. Diagram by Intoaroute Multitouch Screen Infared LED light source- multipule cameras net resolution 1280 x 960 CPU- Central Processing Unit Projector- DLP light engine (like the ones in HDTV’s) resolution 1024 x 768 pixels

7. Technology • Demonstration of the multitouch screen with the use of an object- paintbrush to simulate painting a picture • Surface technology using an object with a tag- wineglass placed on surface to bring up other information about this particular wine

8. Technology • This new technology will be used first as an entertainment commodity in hotels, restaurants and retail venues • It will be initially launched at Harrah’s hotel in Las Vegas, Starwood Hotels and T-mobile. • Restaurant uses- see a virtual menu on screen and order right from the table your beverages and food selections then split the bill and pay electronically at the same time by putting your card on the surface. • Hotel uses- conceirge services for guests to look up a theater in the area and order tickets, pull up a map on how to get there and download the directions and the tickets into your cell phone or mobile device • T-mobile stores- can place two cell phones on the surface and compare the different price points and features, experiment with ring tones and look at plans then program the phone to your liking and have it all set to use before you walk out of the store • Video puzzle- use clear tiles on the surface and each tile has a moving piece of the puzzle that you have to match up with other pieces while the picture(video) is in perpetual motion on the tiles

9. Positive • Multi users- collaborative effort of users interacting • Seamless- no wires or USB ports • Instant download/upload of photos • Users have more control of technology- ordering food or manipulating photos fast • Educational- learn more info about the products you are using Negative • Not portable- table has to stay put • Must own devices such as a cell phone to upload photos into or share with others • Have to be careful of table surface to not damage it • Very expensive to own • Tailored to high end clients Positive vs Negative

10. Videos “The Possibilities” http://www.microsoft.com/surface/videos.html#gid=demos&vid=d3 “Access Points” http://www.microsoft.com/surface/videos.html#gid=team&vid=t1

11. Works Cited Derene, Glenn, “Microsoft Surface: Behind-the-Scenes First Look” July 2007 Popular Mechanics. < http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/industry/4217348.htm>, diagram drawing by Intoaroute. Larsen, Larry, “First Look: Microsoft Surface Computer!” May 30 2007, onTen.net. <http://on10.net/blogs/larry/first-look-microsoft-surfacing-computing/> Microsoft.com/surface, 2008 Microsoft Corporation. <http://www.microsoft.com/surface/about.html> Microsoft.com/surface, 2008 Microsoft Corporation. <http://www.microsoft.com/surface/videos.html#gid=demos&vid=d3> Microsoft.com/surface, 2008 Microsoft Corporation. <http://www.microsoft.com/surface/videos.html#gid=team&vid=t1> Blogs.Msdn.com/surface, 2008 Microsoft Corporation. <http://blogs.msdn.com/surface/archive/2008/02/21/thank-you-sheraton-san-diego.aspx> Pogue, David, “Much Ado About Microsooft’s Surface Computer” May 31 2007, The New York Times. <http://pogue.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/05/31/much-ado-about-microsofts-surface-computer/> Riley, Duncan, “Microsoft Announces Surface Computer” May 29 2007, Tech Crunch. <http://www.techcrunch.com/2007/05/29/microsoft-announces-surface-computer/>