IBM is working to turn its System z mainframe computer into an online 3-D gaming platform, and it's doing it by putting advanced technology used in video games into a mainframe. The idea is to merge the massive transaction and account-based scalability of the mainframe with the graphics power of the PlayStation 3, ultimately letting an organization create and run a virtual online environment like "World of Warcraft" or "Second Life," all on one easy-to-manage and easy-to-scale unit.
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April 27th 2007
Chicago drivers have a new way to pay for gasoline: with their fingertips. Ten Shell gas stations in the Windy City are testing biometric systems that let consumers walk up to the pump, scan their fingertips on a device and fill up their vehicles. The systems, also installed at Shell convenience stores, are directly linked to customers' checking or credit-card accounts for payment. "When we talk to customers, they're always looking for ways to make buying gasoline quicker and easier," said Chris Susse, Shell's manager of global refueling innovations.
