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Hmmm. Tired of setting your messenger account to away when you step away from your computer, or setting it to show "away" after X-minutes? Why not make a proximity sensor with a usb connection. Therefore, you everytime you leave your computer, it will automatically adjust everything for you. You
can even have the software made to allow you to adjust different programs to do different things like: shutting down certain programs when you leave (i.e. hiding messenger at work altogether). You can even add fingerprint identification to allow you to regain access to these programs and restore them to their previous state. Any thoughts?
Webcam with a motion detector
http://www.nytimes....cuits/16camera.html
Actually intended to monitor your house while you're out, but I'm sure you could repurpose to automate the "away" message process. [You may need an account to view the article, but they're free and you don't need to enter accurate information to get one.] [DrCurry, Feb 16 2006]
Slightly related
Fastest_20Draw_20In_20The_20Office
[theircompetitor, Feb 16 2006]
Wireless PC Lock
http://msdn.microso...hatyou/default.aspx
Baked! Someone's even written their own replacement driver software for it at this link, which means you can alter its behavior to do whatever you like when you walk away. [krelnik, Feb 16 2006]
[link]
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As wonderful as PC's are, they are not very good at thinking or using good judgement. I would hate to be in an IM session with someone and because I decided to get up and get a cup of coffee that it will indicate that I am away from my desk. Imagine the scenario-- |
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Jscotty: Hey Jim, did you get those reports I sent?
Jim: Yeah Jscotty! They look great except for-
JSCOTTY IS AWAY FROM HIS DESK |
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Then Jim is a bit annoyed with me because he thinks that I am not listening to him. |
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I guess we'll jsut have to make sure that all notes and reports are sent electronically and that a coffee machine is right next to each person's desk. jk. But seriously, I think this sensor can provide more security and privacy within an office setting. I agree with what you've said, but it would not be hard to add a simple shortcut key to allow you to override the sensor if need be. I guess I was also thinking of an environment were IM is not allowed. |
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Many medical offices use proximity detection for there computers so that when a tech or doctor steps away from the machine it automatically logs off or locks. Companies like Sentillion and Citrix build systems that can use proximity devices as part of the overall network and software system architecture. |
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Ah, but automated "away" messages are so much more important an application! |
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