perm filename HOTER.BGB[PUB,JMC] blob
sn#139940 filedate 1975-01-16 generic text, type T, neo UTF8
Dear John:
Your HOTER proposal is unrealistic because it is too little
service, for too much money, for too few people. The proposal is also
too "communications" and "time shared" oriented. As I see it the
computers as home appliances will come in exactly two steps:
(1). First, a series of totally independent home computers will be
developed and marketed by private entrepeneurs (rather than by the
government or by a cooperative). The independent home computer will
be a combination: television, calculator, typewriter, pin ball
machine and juke box; and will be sold for between the cost of a
color television and a car (depending on features).
(2). Second, the present rates on communication are exorbinate and
can not be afforded by home computer owners. The communications
monopoly (post office, phone company and the FCC) must somehow be
made to supply home computer communications as a "free" public
service, in the manner that Network television entertainment or
highway transportation is provided "free". Perhaps, the home
computer communications network can be supported by Cable Television
Companys as part of their responsibilty to the public as a public
monopoly. The home computers would be connected by cable television
by means of a packet switching system on a video channel.
Bruce G. Baumgart