To bring a more computer-like experience to airline passengers, Rockwell Collins is adding Windows operating systems to the hardware of its TES cabin entertainment system, resulting in the eTES system, scheduled for first delivery in mid-2002. The idea is that Windows provides a stable architecture that can accept new features, with a wide range of developer tools. Features can be introduced at the airline's pace, including e-mail, Internet access and audio and video on demand. The eTES server will run Windows NT, and passenger units will run Windows CE. Eighty feature movies can be stored and randomly accessed by all passengers, including pausing, rewinding and fast forwarding them. Distribution is via high-speed cable data modem. Viewing can be done either by in-seat display or the passenger s own laptop or other device. The system will build Web pages based on passengers' selections, and Collins says it will give an experience similar to home or office computers. Given many users' experience with Windows, it's not clear this is a good thing.
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