I think it's a bit of both. [reminder: NOT A FAN BOY]
The people who run MTV are sometimes the same people you see on screen. During the 80's and 90's MTV was mostly run by people who provided for an older audience. The people who ran MTV were young, 20's, and they were trying to put on an adult show. Not for older adults or people looking for class, but they were giving people what they wanted, and influencing pop-culture their own way.
Now I think we are seeing a shift to trying to understand and create {pop} culture as well. MTV doesn't do bad at providing adult programming as well. But most of what we see is adults and young adults trying to show kids culture. They touch on issues, but 9-5 it's mostly an adult showing kids groups or groups for kids. By kids, I mean teenagers - younger than the people who we are talking about now.
MTV though does have it's strong points. Wrestling, IMHO, is a bad move. But Jackass, and the Real World are two college age staple programs. These shows do appeal to many college age, 'hip', `poppy', type of kids.
This product could catch on and because of that bring back that 18-24 year old audience. They seem to be slipping when it comes to music videos.
But MTV2 seems to provide a better range of more complex music and music styles. If this thing could stream MTV2, that could be a hit. I know more people in college, living on campus, that have computers [and no cable] than cable tv.
Depends on the specs and functions. If it works well, and provides a 'cool' set of tools - it could take off.
Will MTV start a revolution in music distribution? Maybe. Something to think about again. They depend on it, as well as the artists depend on MTV.
A sane DRM system and internet distribution channel could sure help a whole bunch of us. MTV provides a jukebox at a certain cost, and sell [basically] singles to burn. You burn at home - the machine is the key. With the computer they provide the appliance and ease of use. Combine that with a library of music, Voila.
If it becomes easier than P2P and the many steps in between - the appliance becomes your computer and personal CD creation station. Normal people would just get this because ease of use and features. It's like a Tivo for music. I guess.
I know this will be taken as a troll, or flame-bait. But here I go.
Everyone has put down MTV, the MTV computer idea, and so much more. It goes to show one thing:
Computer geeks don't get pop culture
Someone above posted:
Even if you are a college student, would you want your computer to come from a channel that headlines a show where people pierce their asses? Not me, I just don't see this idea being sucessful.
I guess that person doesn't realize that many, many people watch that show [Jackass]. MTV is way more than just a shiny things type of network. It's young 'veejays' are usually working 100 times harder behind the scenes. It's movie awards, while a comedy show, has really challanged the Oscars by giving awards to movies that the majority actually like. The Matrix would be a good example. No doubt that movie was a hit, but no nod from the academy.
If anyone is closer to what is on the minds of the public [from age 11-2?] than MTV, where are they? No doubt their success is proof.
Will this venture work? Maybe not. But if they got these machines hooked up to a broadband connection - it could be another MTV.
Remember, music artists spend millions to put their music on TV when they receive no immediate reward. Computers offer much more than TV.
I think free music would be one big draw. And even without DRM it would keep some piracy at bay. Think a thousand mp3 streams at your finger tips. MTV has the money and power to put that together.
Most college students I know are downloading mp3s and using P2P just to have something to listen to.
If they don't try to make this a computer, and more of an appliance that plays music, movies and videos... it could work.
[not complaining]
I got the CD from debian, no where else. Both times.
[/not complaining]
I'm simply a home user, who loses his linux install at least once every three months. My fault everytime. Sometimes I just go with something else.
When I'm serious I plan to fully support linux financially. I've bought two [don't make fun] Mandrake sets, and even a RedHat box set a long time ago.
It's not that I feel as if the software isn't worth the money, or I want to use it because it's free as in beer free. Simply: I don't have the money. [or any money]
As I can/could tell the 'community' was also filled with some people who share my situation. I'm a hobbiest, and an advocate. Sorry I can't afford to put cash on the table.
Many people here were complaining about the project where a computer in every home was promised.
The biggest complaint was Linux upkeep, and hardware. Hardware doesn't have to include GeForce cards, or even x86 machines. Any cheap maybe even diskless machine could be enough.
In my area, one of the neighborhoods that need help is adjacent to the downtown area. Many of the people live in a relativly small area too. It's also within blocks, including surrounding blocks, of our main library branch.
A network of computers could be linked the this existing system. I also suggest that the 'net' should be wired with/to the library. You can fight over small details such as what type of connections should be used - but if we are talking a 'kick start', much isn't needed.
We all know that an old[er] machine can run linux well, and even better; they can be controlled and configured from a distance.
Why give away free computers to play quake? Give people enough to get on the internet easily and quickly. Because we have all the source-code available, anyone can tailor the computer to boot into the gui and give maybe, a few icons to point you to the web or other services.
Don't give anyone 'root' passwords. The computers are public property and are managed by the library. If the user wants a printer, they can get one. If they want to save things that are private: use a disk. Restrict snooping by the city, but simply remind the users that it's not 100% safe. Logs will be kept, but not reviewed unless asked by a judge.
The users basically have no rights on the system. They can play games, go to uproar, even post to slashdot. But since the library controls the system they control the software, the maintenance, and access.
Maybe offer two DNS servers and let the user just hit a button: "Restricted Access" or "Unrestricted Access". Once set, it's set. The computer pics the correct DNS server with the correct DNS entries.
Basically, no frills, no problems. After initial setup, one skilled person could maintain all the computers. Journaling filesystems save the computer from crashes and if something breaks, the user reboots it with the CD in... reformatted, reinstalled.
If the city chooses to do so, offer a place to save settings online.
Unless they are planing to replace it... no one knows. The reason that IIS isn't in XP Home? I'm guessing because it's not needed. Opens home users up for another hole. And of course, charge more money for IIS.
Remember code red? I can't forget, I'm getting probed for IIS daily.
Thank you... as much as I love debian and linux in general you've finally put me into that category of people who think the support problem in the linux world is arrogance.
This [and the last post] is the only time I've gotten a bad attitude about this problem [or any other problems].
Once again though, it's not the 'root' floppy it asks for, it's the rescue floppy it asks for. Just to check I've burned the CD again 3 times all 3 times a different way.
But please, let's be fair. Your attempt wasn't honest enough as it comes no where close to my problem. I'm sorry that you didn't help and that I've offended you because I told you it didn't.
No where though did I resort to name calling. You are the one who added the "why don't you try again after you've passed puberty?". This is civil conversation? And for what reason did you deduce I've not passed puberty?
That's simply childish. I felt belittled by the fact that you acted as if you were supreme computer god [Nick Burns is that you?] because you've used debian since way back when, and I'm nothing because I haven't.
The editors went to worse extremes. I guess that MS not only rigs polls but moderates on/. too.
Microsoft does want to control what you do with your computer. It's not a crazy plot to take over the world... it's a plot to get exclusive rights to the DRM market.
lol.. my point was: When M$ makes your, er, their minds up, not even the gov't can change that.
Regardless if this is on topic, it's true.
Come up with ten reasons why I'm wrong, that M$ is a great company that loves to 'innovate' then I'll shut up. Hell if you could come up with 10 reasons why M$ does anything without a sneaky idea on the side... everyone on/. will shut up.
2. The CLR is just a collection of library code that developers can use or choose not to use. Think STL for many different languages. Already the CLR has support for many languages.
Choose? M$ doesn't give you a choice.
3. An evil empire built by Microsoft does not really benefit them in the long run. Microsoft is in the business of making money, not taking over the world.
No, they don't want to 'take over the world' they want to take over the OS, computer, consumer device, media and content, media and content delivery, media protection, and Internet business[es]. Bill Gates' dream is to have you buying everything from them except groceries.
See the above point I made. They are in the business of making money by taking your choices away.
I mean are we being paranoid? There is the California case. There is WPA, change hardware, gotta re-register. There are too many things to list here.
This case with the BIOS and MBR might not be the way they do it, but there will be a way. Microsoft will claim not to be a monopoly, because there are other hardware vendors [besides MS] which other operating systems can run.
What is happening is the a great bastardization of computing as a hobbie.
Someone else said you pay to much for software, I think you are way under. Windows XP Home is $99, pro $199. Before XP if you wanted to do a fresh install you'd have to pay $199. $99 was for the upgrade version.
Office suite $150? Here is Office XP, $359. Remember, you can't use the upgrade on a fresh install.
And anti-virus software... that should be free - but you are pretty much on target.
One day, Microsoft's advertisements will read:
Now With Windows XY, A FREE 3.4Ghz Computer!
Slashdot Mirror
I do stand corrected.
I completely apologize, I was trying to provide an example. If anyone has one, please.
I think it's a bit of both. [reminder: NOT A FAN BOY]
The people who run MTV are sometimes the same people you see on screen. During the 80's and 90's MTV was mostly run by people who provided for an older audience. The people who ran MTV were young, 20's, and they were trying to put on an adult show. Not for older adults or people looking for class, but they were giving people what they wanted, and influencing pop-culture their own way.
Now I think we are seeing a shift to trying to understand and create {pop} culture as well. MTV doesn't do bad at providing adult programming as well. But most of what we see is adults and young adults trying to show kids culture. They touch on issues, but 9-5 it's mostly an adult showing kids groups or groups for kids. By kids, I mean teenagers - younger than the people who we are talking about now.
MTV though does have it's strong points. Wrestling, IMHO, is a bad move. But Jackass, and the Real World are two college age staple programs. These shows do appeal to many college age, 'hip', `poppy', type of kids.
This product could catch on and because of that bring back that 18-24 year old audience. They seem to be slipping when it comes to music videos.
But MTV2 seems to provide a better range of more complex music and music styles. If this thing could stream MTV2, that could be a hit. I know more people in college, living on campus, that have computers [and no cable] than cable tv.
Depends on the specs and functions. If it works well, and provides a 'cool' set of tools - it could take off.
Will MTV start a revolution in music distribution? Maybe. Something to think about again. They depend on it, as well as the artists depend on MTV.
A sane DRM system and internet distribution channel could sure help a whole bunch of us. MTV provides a jukebox at a certain cost, and sell [basically] singles to burn. You burn at home - the machine is the key. With the computer they provide the appliance and ease of use. Combine that with a library of music, Voila.
If it becomes easier than P2P and the many steps in between - the appliance becomes your computer and personal CD creation station. Normal people would just get this because ease of use and features. It's like a Tivo for music. I guess.
Just a thought.
Has anyone else really thought about these DVD tv episode deals?
Seems to be a little too much. And when do we get Seinfeld, News Radio, or Night Court?
I know this will be taken as a troll, or flame-bait. But here I go.
Everyone has put down MTV, the MTV computer idea, and so much more. It goes to show one thing:
Computer geeks don't get pop culture
Someone above posted:
Even if you are a college student, would you want your computer to come from a channel that headlines a show where people pierce their asses? Not me, I just don't see this idea being sucessful.
I guess that person doesn't realize that many, many people watch that show [Jackass]. MTV is way more than just a shiny things type of network. It's young 'veejays' are usually working 100 times harder behind the scenes. It's movie awards, while a comedy show, has really challanged the Oscars by giving awards to movies that the majority actually like. The Matrix would be a good example. No doubt that movie was a hit, but no nod from the academy.
If anyone is closer to what is on the minds of the public [from age 11-2?] than MTV, where are they? No doubt their success is proof.
Will this venture work? Maybe not. But if they got these machines hooked up to a broadband connection - it could be another MTV.
Remember, music artists spend millions to put their music on TV when they receive no immediate reward. Computers offer much more than TV.
I think free music would be one big draw. And even without DRM it would keep some piracy at bay. Think a thousand mp3 streams at your finger tips. MTV has the money and power to put that together.
Most college students I know are downloading mp3s and using P2P just to have something to listen to.
If they don't try to make this a computer, and more of an appliance that plays music, movies and videos... it could work.
Just something to think about.
Perfect for someone who wants to build a file server, or a firewall. You know, ideal if you want it sitting on top of your existing PC.
I say stack'em up and imagine a you know what.
Read this
Think and read before you post.
[not complaining]
I got the CD from debian, no where else. Both times.
[/not complaining]
I'm simply a home user, who loses his linux install at least once every three months. My fault everytime. Sometimes I just go with something else.
When I'm serious I plan to fully support linux financially. I've bought two [don't make fun] Mandrake sets, and even a RedHat box set a long time ago.
It's not that I feel as if the software isn't worth the money, or I want to use it because it's free as in beer free. Simply: I don't have the money. [or any money]
As I can/could tell the 'community' was also filled with some people who share my situation. I'm a hobbiest, and an advocate. Sorry I can't afford to put cash on the table.
"There's a bit of the jew-hater inside everybody! Let it run free!"
Is this why I have clinical depression? Sometimes I do hate myself.
Thanks for the revelation; when we set up the new world gov't we'll give you a high post.
Maybe first post.
Thanks, I guess it's nothing for the poor!
Save the children then... would I not be a commie?
Many people here were complaining about the project where a computer in every home was promised.
The biggest complaint was Linux upkeep, and hardware. Hardware doesn't have to include GeForce cards, or even x86 machines. Any cheap maybe even diskless machine could be enough.
In my area, one of the neighborhoods that need help is adjacent to the downtown area. Many of the people live in a relativly small area too. It's also within blocks, including surrounding blocks, of our main library branch.
A network of computers could be linked the this existing system. I also suggest that the 'net' should be wired with/to the library. You can fight over small details such as what type of connections should be used - but if we are talking a 'kick start', much isn't needed.
We all know that an old[er] machine can run linux well, and even better; they can be controlled and configured from a distance.
Why give away free computers to play quake? Give people enough to get on the internet easily and quickly. Because we have all the source-code available, anyone can tailor the computer to boot into the gui and give maybe, a few icons to point you to the web or other services.
Don't give anyone 'root' passwords. The computers are public property and are managed by the library. If the user wants a printer, they can get one. If they want to save things that are private: use a disk. Restrict snooping by the city, but simply remind the users that it's not 100% safe. Logs will be kept, but not reviewed unless asked by a judge.
The users basically have no rights on the system. They can play games, go to uproar, even post to slashdot. But since the library controls the system they control the software, the maintenance, and access.
Maybe offer two DNS servers and let the user just hit a button: "Restricted Access" or "Unrestricted Access". Once set, it's set. The computer pics the correct DNS server with the correct DNS entries.
Basically, no frills, no problems. After initial setup, one skilled person could maintain all the computers. Journaling filesystems save the computer from crashes and if something breaks, the user reboots it with the CD in... reformatted, reinstalled.
If the city chooses to do so, offer a place to save settings online.
Microsoft has no plans to get rid of IIS.
Unless they are planing to replace it... no one knows. The reason that IIS isn't in XP Home? I'm guessing because it's not needed. Opens home users up for another hole. And of course, charge more money for IIS.
Remember code red? I can't forget, I'm getting probed for IIS daily.
As you can see here, sometimes he does.
Quite dashing I think... but he looks like the devil. Maybe it's Gates' hat.
Thank you... as much as I love debian and linux in general you've finally put me into that category of people who think the support problem in the linux world is arrogance.
This [and the last post] is the only time I've gotten a bad attitude about this problem [or any other problems].
Once again though, it's not the 'root' floppy it asks for, it's the rescue floppy it asks for. Just to check I've burned the CD again 3 times all 3 times a different way.
But please, let's be fair. Your attempt wasn't honest enough as it comes no where close to my problem. I'm sorry that you didn't help and that I've offended you because I told you it didn't.
No where though did I resort to name calling. You are the one who added the "why don't you try again after you've passed puberty?". This is civil conversation? And for what reason did you deduce I've not passed puberty?
That's simply childish. I felt belittled by the fact that you acted as if you were supreme computer god [Nick Burns is that you?] because you've used debian since way back when, and I'm nothing because I haven't.
Thanks.
I'm a troll but /. isn't?
/. too.
The editors went to worse extremes. I guess that MS not only rigs polls but moderates on
Microsoft does want to control what you do with your computer. It's not a crazy plot to take over the world... it's a plot to get exclusive rights to the DRM market.
Well, if they get DRM they get the rest too...
lol.. my point was: When M$ makes your, er, their minds up, not even the gov't can change that.
/. will shut up.
Regardless if this is on topic, it's true.
Come up with ten reasons why I'm wrong, that M$ is a great company that loves to 'innovate' then I'll shut up. Hell if you could come up with 10 reasons why M$ does anything without a sneaky idea on the side... everyone on
Really give the term Blue Screen of Death a new meaning.
Computer crashed? Well, you better get the hell out of the room.
The BSOD is always the last thing you see.
Kernel oops? oops, pick your case out of your stomach.
[i know this doesn't work on existing chips... but I couldn't help it]
-17 Redundant [again]
no, i don't have mod points... so I just want to let these people know they aren't reading the second or third comment down from the story.
-17 Redundant [again]
-17 Redundant
Thank you. I was under the impression that they fixed their pricing.
Anyone know if a XP upgrade will work over their free beta release of '98 SE? I have a feeling since it was free that it won't work.
One day you'll be buying rouge x86 machines off of ebay so you can run Linux and the like.
I guess they figured they had all the software in it's corner but that wasn't enough.
I don't think Intel will be out of the game. Intel will be the ones making the Microsoft hardware, it will just say M$ on it.
Choose? M$ doesn't give you a choice.
3. An evil empire built by Microsoft does not really benefit them in the long run. Microsoft is in the business of making money, not taking over the world.
No, they don't want to 'take over the world' they want to take over the OS, computer, consumer device, media and content, media and content delivery, media protection, and Internet business[es]. Bill Gates' dream is to have you buying everything from them except groceries.
See the above point I made. They are in the business of making money by taking your choices away.
I mean are we being paranoid? There is the California case. There is WPA, change hardware, gotta re-register. There are too many things to list here.
This case with the BIOS and MBR might not be the way they do it, but there will be a way. Microsoft will claim not to be a monopoly, because there are other hardware vendors [besides MS] which other operating systems can run.
What is happening is the a great bastardization of computing as a hobbie.
...but this scares the hell out of me.
I always thought that as long as there are a few free software developers out there M$ couldn't be an absolute monopoly.
I guess the only way to be free in the computing world will be to keep your old hardware and miss out on the new stuff.
Good thing my DVD player plays MP3 discs, and my Dreamcast is working at the moment.
Someone else said you pay to much for software, I think you are way under. Windows XP Home is $99, pro $199. Before XP if you wanted to do a fresh install you'd have to pay $199. $99 was for the upgrade version.
Office suite $150? Here is Office XP, $359. Remember, you can't use the upgrade on a fresh install.
And anti-virus software... that should be free - but you are pretty much on target.
One day, Microsoft's advertisements will read:
Now With Windows XY, A FREE 3.4Ghz Computer!