Virtual reality is no longer in the future

Article Abstract:

Virtual reality (VR) technology is being used to resolve problems in real-world situations. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is using VR to train astronauts to repair the Hubble Space Telescope. VR is likely to be particularly significant in entertainment: VR technology was featured in the motion-picture 'Lawnmower Man' and has also been shown in 'Doonesbury' cartoon strips. Software such as WorldToolKit from Sense8 Corp and Cyberspace Developer Kit from Autodesk Inc allow users to create VR on microcomputers. Architects at OWP&P Architects Inc used a program called Wheelchair VR, developed by Prairie Virtual Systems Corp, to discover how patients in wheelchairs will experience the design of a new 140-room hospital. Other companies using or making VR products include DesignWare Inc, Micron Green Inc, Maxus Systems International, Chrysler Corp and Northrop Corp.

Prepackaged software, Research, Usage, Column, Training, Product introduction, Virtual reality, United States. National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Outlook, Future Technologies, Applications, New Technique

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Digital and Oracle to revive alliance, unveil a computer-software package

Article Abstract:

DEC and Oracle are reviving an old alliance and are set to debut a computer and software package that experts claim is much faster than existing large database management systems. The agreement is expected to help DEC increase its sales and increase a declining declining market share in the $42 billion server market. Oracle will market software designed for the DEC server, which will use an advanced Alpha CPU, the fastest available on the market. The high-performance server may vindicate the Alpha-based scheme enthusiastically pursued by Robert Palmer, DEC's president and CEO. One of DEC's biggest problems has been a lack of software programs designed to take advantage of the Alpha's power. Oracle's software may be able to change that. The Alpha CPU is a 64-bit processor that can handle information more efficiently than 32-bit competitors.

Electronic Computer Manufacturing, Dedicated Computers, Planning, Computer industry, Product development, Database management systems, DBMS software, Oracle Corp., ORCL, File servers, Cooperative agreement for product development, Alliances and partnerships, Company business planning, Servers (Computers), Digital Equipment Corp., DEC, DBMS, Alpha-Based System

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