Computer are not specific purpose devices like toasters or microwaves (Who am I kidding? Even these have become increasingly complicated and ship with manuals. Anyways I digress). A computer is not an appliance which when switched on does the work you want.
it should be - otherwise it is worthless
A computer is a general purpose device. An appliance is a special purpose device. Please be very, very careful about what you are asking for, because the device for the general user != device for the advanced user != device for the programmer.
Actually we need to broaden the definition of a computer here. Here goes my latest example.
Recently setup a vonage phone with MTNL as the ISP at a relative's place. The vonage box is a linksys box (forget the model) and while I have not confirmed it, it may be running on linux or atleast some OS. Has memory, 2 lan cards. Does some computing and processing and therefore a computer with a very specific purpose (IMHO).
The mtnl dlink router does run Linux and pretty much same as above. Both have very specific roles. The place in question has no "computer" as such. (only used for initial settings).
Every device has lights to indicate the status for the various services/slots. Phone works like a charm.
Reliance already has IP TV for the past 1.5 years. It uses something called a CHOISpad. again, I would define it as a computer. With a very specific purpose.
Maybe my post has no relevance, but then atleast i got to boast that i setup and am using a vonage phone. :)
abhi
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