Linux based set-top system in trial tests
Mar 14, 2000 — by LinuxDevices Staff — from the LinuxDevices Archive — viewsBOHEMIA, N.Y. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — VillageWorld.Com, a leader in educational and family based Internet services, announced today that it is in trial testing of its Linux based Set-top system. The new product allows individuals without a computer or who need a second Internet terminal to access the Internet, use spread sheets or word processing and other PC functions inexpensively through their… television.
The complete system includes a set-top box, wireless keyboard and all necessary cables. The system will be a pre-configured set-top box that connects to a customer's television in the same manner as a VCR or game system and is controlled with the use of a wireless keyboard. The device provides the user with a simple point and click interface to call up Web sites, E-mail services, documents and spreadsheets that are displayed in a large, easy-to-read format on the TV screen.
The device is based on a custom embedded Linux distribution developed by Intelligent Computer Solutions Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of VillageWorld.com. The Linux operating system and browser technology allow VillageWorld.com to add open source software and plug-ins as they are developed. This system is designed to be compatible with Sun Microsystems StarOffice 5.1, a full-featured, interoperable, multi-platform office productivity suite.
“These devices greatly extend our reach into previously under-served markets”, said Peter Keenan, President and CEO of VillageWorld.com. “Our national dial up, Private label ISP, affinity based ISP and soon to be released franchising program of ISP services will all have access to this technology.”
About VillageWorld.com
VillageWorld.com, the parent Company of VillageNet, Inc. and Intelligent Computer Solutions, Inc., is a community-oriented Internet service provider specializing in educational and family-based Internet services with a local emphasis on business advertising and shopping, chat rooms and parent student/teacher interaction. VillageNet currently provides high-speed connectivity to universities, public schools systems, individuals and business, as well as providing advertising, web hosting and private label ISP services. VillageWorld.com is in the process of becoming the first publicly traded franchiser of Internet Services. VillageWorld.com has more then 200 local access numbers in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Illinois, California, Nevada, and Arizona offering ISDN, V.90 Modem, and xDSL service in over 20 cities.
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