Is Sun Ray revolutionary or a bad idea revisited?

BANGALORE, September 10: Sun Microsystem's new $10-a-month Sun Ray

network terminals received a mixed welcome, as some early adopters said

that the machines are efficient and inexpensive computing solution, while

others said the machines are little more than a new version of a product

that failed before, the NC (network computer).

Wisely, Sun said the new machines are not designed to compete with

Windows desktop computers in general purpose work environments. Rather,

they are aimed at specific, large niche markets that evolve around

intensive data entry and retrieval such as in banking and libraries. The

Sun Ray systems consist of a keyboard and monitor, along with an optional

device where users insert a credit card access key that lets them log onto

the servers that store applications and data files. The Bank of Nova

Scotia announced plans to use 300 of the Sun Ray terminals by the end of

the year. The Carnegie Library in Pittsburgh which took part in beta

tests, plans to replace 1,200 personal computers with Sun Ray terminals.

Large corporations and consumers appeared disinterested at this point,

most saying the Sun Rays don't appear to be a solution that will be

embraced on a widespread basis. The reaction from corporate buyers is

similar to those expressed several years ago when Sun and Oracle launched

the NC initiative. The NC failed in part because PC priced came down to

the NC level and most consumers and corporate office workers preferred the

flexibility of the desktop PC. The complexities that come with fully

featured PCs appear to be a trade-off most computer users are willing to

make. Sun insists once again that its Sun Ray can succeed as an

alternative to the increasing complexity of today's desktop computers. The

company believes the frustration over the high cost of maintaining fleets

of expensive, complex PCs is another factor that will eventually drive

many companies to consider the Sun Ray.