Comp-grid



Comp-grids are the shared computer and network resources of an area. They eliminate the need for personal computers by enabling data terminals and any other net-enabled device to use the grid which itself continuously engages a plethora of networked computational devices. Comp-grids are almost all linked by the Net. They also bus the vast majority of local P-Comm traffic  (3.1).

Standalone personal computers are a thing of the past. In 2280, most cities have powerful comp-grids, invisible arrays of shared computational and information resources linked to the global Net. Comp-grids are accessible by any Netwire-enabled device, be it a traditional data terminal with a keyboard and display, or the direct neural interface of a Tap.

The evolution of computing technology and computers themselves has become intertwined with the New World’s penchant for sleek, utilitarian design and organic technology. Computers in the New World are almost invisible devices, built into the walls of homes, embedded in jewellery, or even implanted directly into the owner’s body (3.4.6).

As it has been for the last 250 years, software and computing technologies are big business, with numerous corporations producing virtual machines, software applications, games, and all manner of Net-based products. Many of these corporations have launched their own comp-grids, accessible by their customers for specific tasks and subscription services (3.4.6).