CompUTE: a runtime infrastructure for device composition

  • Authors:
  • Jakob E. Bardram;Christina Fuglsang;Simon C. Pedersen

  • Affiliations:
  • IT University of Copenhagen, DK, Copenhagen;Systematic Software, DK, Aarhus C;Miracle A/S, DK, Ballerup

  • Venue:
  • Proceedings of the International Conference on Advanced Visual Interfaces
  • Year:
  • 2010

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Abstract

In this paper, we present the idea of a composite device, which is one device made up of a composition of several separate devices working together in concert. We present the CompUTE architecture as a runtime infrastructure for device composition. This architecture is implemented in the CompUTE .net platform, which enables device composition between Windows XP devices based on an 'extended desktop' metaphor. We discuss how the CompUTE .net platform enables users to merge multiple computers into one composite device with an enlarged desktop area and several keyboards and mice. Each user is equipped with a unique cursor, which works across all connected devices and she can drag and drop any application window and files between the connected devices. User can also work collaboratively on the composite device. We reports from a usability study involving 24 participants who found the CompUTE .net platform very useful, easy to use, and easy to learn.