Introduction
The defining purpose of the Graphical User Interface, (GUI) is seen as a simpler method for a person to interact with a computer. The advantage that we have inherited from the technology behind the GUI is the capacity for viewing images via a computer display. Improvements in packet-switching protocols and computer hardware and software have allowed the use of images from the Internet to evolve with the GUI. Research and development is taking place to further enhance computer interfacing and our use of images from the Internet.
Circuit-switched packet-switching
The GUI is our window to the Internet through browser software. Current technology handles still images perfectly adequately. Unfortunately video and audio transmission over the Internet is currently less than perfect. Future network controls and capacities should be able to deliver data in higher, more controlled volumes. Network protocols currently employ "connectionless" technology. Each packet of data travels its own individual route with the packets being reassembled on arrival. As such packet switching is subject to time delays. The Asynchronous Transfer Method (ATM) is changing this. ATM transmits packets, called cells, over the Internet using a direct connection. These cells are smaller than conventional packets at just 53 bytes. This small size enables the cells to make use of multiplexing and broadband networks to increase the data transmission rate. Establishing a direct connection as in circuit switching coupled with an increase in transmission rate should improve video and audio quality and achieve almost real time status.
Computer Interface
The amount of information we as individuals and groups have to process is growing. Microsoft Research and XEROXPARC are engaged in research into improving the GUI. Microsofts focus on this extends the metaphor of the desktop into a virtual office, the TaskGallery, constructed in virtual 3D. The intention is to allow the users to organise their own "office space". This should make use of the users spatial memory. The theory being that the user should know where he has placed something. The metaphor also extends into the concept of an art gallery with "snapshots" replacing icons to aid location and use. Documents would be stacked on the "walls". Files could also be arranged into specific tasks and arranged as in an office environment.
Conclusion
The computer of the future will become much more than the machine we use today. The term multimedia may become more meaningful. Real time communications could have far reaching consequences. Three dimensional interfacing through computers could introduce more interactivity. Interactive education over huge distances could become a reality. Each student would be able to see into a real classroom and interact directly with teachers and other students. The future of television broadcasting could be altered. Videophones through computers could become as common as standard telephones. A trip to the cinema could become a trip to the computer display. Personal choices in education and employment could be virtually unlimited for those with the necessary resources. Empowerment of individuals and groups in the future is a very real possibility.
References
- Microsofts TaskGallery From Microsoft 1/10/01
- Multiplexing From webopedia.com 1/10/01
