A couple of interesting bits about how technology is changing the face and pace of the way we live, work and fight.
Digital technology adds new dimension to military
New digital technologies are making it possible for U.S. bomber pilots to safely rehearse difficult missions before they set off over the rugged, mountainous terrain of Afghanistan, Reuters reported on Saturday. Satellite images, aerial photographs, and other data are loaded onto a three-dimensional grid using sophisticated computer technology, giving pilots the chance to get familiar with the target before dropping their bombs. “Our ability to visualize the battle space is absolutely key,” said Lt. Gen. James King, of the U.S. Defense Department’s National Imagery and Mapping Agency.
Amsterdam airport adopts retinal scanning
At Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport, you can afford to forget your passport even if you’re boarding an international flight, Newsbytes reported on Friday. A program called “Privium” combines smart-card technology with optical scanning and networked computers to allow travelers to cross the border after retinal-scan identification. A scanner, built by Iridian Technologies, identifies patterns in the human iris. Johan Enschede Security Solutions developed software for the smart card on which encoding of a person’s iris is kept.
New Yorkers turn to cyber bar
A new Manhattan nightspot called The Remote Lounge offers a non-stop stream of images, videos, and messages as you drink, BBC News reported on Saturday. Anyone can communicate with anyone else using 77 circuits, more than 120 TV monitors and tiny cameras that are everywhere. Using a joystick and channel selector it is possible to see through and manipulate every camera in the room. The bar has proved so popular that at one point Microsoft and Apple were fighting to be the first to hold a party there for their clients.
Computer students get course to stop them acting like geeks
Munich University is giving computer students courses to stop them acting like geeks, Ananova News reported on Friday. The course promises to give IT students “much-needed” social skills. Subjects include how to dress properly and how to make small talk. The course will also teach table manners. Instead of an exam, students will sit for a three-course lunch to show off their new skills.
