Chapter 14

Augmented reality (AR) is a branch of virtual reality that generates a virtual scene that is overlaid on the real object. Bluetooth which can be used to create a personal area network (PAN), is a wireless technology for transferring data over short distances (usually within 30 feet) for fixed and mobile devices. Cloud computing incorporates, under one platform, many recent technologies, including the SaaS model, Web 2.0, grid computing, and utility computing; hence, a variety of resources can be provided to users over the Internet. Business applications are accessed via a Web browser, and data is stored on the providers’ servers. Infrastructure as a service (IaaS) also called hardware as a service (HaaS), is a type of cloud computing whereby computer infrastructure (such as storage, hardware, servers, and networking components) are delivered as a service. Nanotechnology incorporates techniques that involve the structure and composition of materials on a nanoscale. Platform as a service (PaaS) provides a computing platform and a solution as a service. Clients use the platform and environment to build applications and services over the Internet. A QR (quick response) code is a matrix barcode consisting of black modules arranged in a square pattern on a white background. Software as a service (SaaS) also known as “on-demand software,” is a model for ASPs to deliver software to users for a fee; the software is for temporary or long-term use. Utility (on-demand) computing is the provision of IT services on demand. Users pay for computing or storage resources on an as-needed basis, similar to the way one pays for utilities such as heat and water. Virtual reality (VR) uses computer-generated, three-dimensional images to create the illusion of interaction in a real-world environment. Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) is a broadband wireless technology. Information can be transmitted over short distances—typically 120 feet indoors and 300 feet outdoors—in the form of radio waves. Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) is a broadband wireless technology based on the IEEE 802.16 standards. It is designed for wireless metropolitan area networks and usually has a range of about 30 miles for fixed stations and 3– 10 miles for mobile stations. Application service providers (ASPs) provide access to software or services for a fee. An avatar is a 2D or 3D graphical representation of a person in the virtual world, used in chat rooms and online games. A cave automatic virtual environment (CAVE) is a virtual environment consisting of a cube-shaped room in which the walls are rear-projection screens. CAVEs are holographic devices that create, capture, and display images in true 3D form. In an egocentric environment, the user is totally immersed in the VR world. In an exocentric environment, the user is given a “window view.” Data is still rendered in 3D, but users can only view it on screen. They cannot interact with objects, as in an egocentric environment. Grid computing involves combining the processing powers of various computers. With this configuration, users can make use of other computers’ resources to solve problems involving large-scale, complex calculations, such as circuit analysis or mechanical design—problems that a single computer is not capable of solving in a timely manner. With pull technology, a user states a need before getting information, as when a URL is entered in a Web browser so the user can go to a certain Web site. With push technology, also known as “webcasting,” a Web server delivers information to users (who have signed up for this service) instead of waiting for users to request the information be sent to them. A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is a small electronic device consisting of a small chip and an antenna. This device provides a unique identification for the card or the object carrying the tag. A virtual world is a simulated environment designed for users to interact with one another via avatars. • BioMetrics - the measurement and analysis of unique physical or behavioral characteristics especially as a means of verifying personal identity. Some current and future applications of biometrics include: • ATM, credit, and debit card purchase security • Network and computer login security • Web page security • Voting • Employee time clocks