digital convergence

In the days of the first computers, transaction and company data were the first types of information digitized. Then came text, opening the world to word processing, followed by audio CDs and finally video. Having all forms of information in the digital domain has given rise to numerous convergence opportunities.

Personal Computers and Entertainment
A major area of interest is the merging of the PC and entertainment. There are numerous devices that transmit photos, music and videos from the PC to the home stereo/home theater system. In 2002, Microsoft introduced the Windows XP Media Center Edition, a Windows version that concentrates on managing media for home users. This concept uses the Internet as input, the PC as organizer and the home theater as output. Exactly how and where we want to hear, listen and manage all this is evolving. See DLNA, digital media hub, digital media server, MP3 and HTPC.

Data and Voice
Data used to travel over voice networks. Increasingly, voice is traveling over data networks. Billions have been spent by private enterprises and telecom carriers to develop voice over IP (VoIP) networks using the Internet's IP protocol. See VoIP, IP on Everything and IP telephony.

Wireless and Handhelds
There is a convergence of wireless transmission for portable phones and cellphones that enable them to also connect to the LAN if they pick up a Wi-Fi signal in the vicinity. Numerous functions are now combined, such as the cellphone/PDA and cellphone/camera/music player. Tiny video camcorders also function as still cameras, voice recorders, digital music players, Webcams and even external storage drives. See fixed mobile convergence.

CE and PC
Many say the consumer electronics (CE) field is directing the PC industry. Who's on first? Stay tuned!