CRQ software is a free software program that lets your TV serve as a remote control for your computer on the Internet. :CRQ software interacts with any form of broadcast and print media by decoding a cue and directing the user to a specific Web page. It functions with a peripheral called the :CueCat, which up to now has only operated on Windows-based PCs.
Print or broadcast cues remotely control a computer by driving a Web browser to relevant content. Your TV sends your computer to pertinent Web pages, “eliminating the need to type in lengthy Web addresses, wander aimlessly through multi-layered Web sites, or add a set-top box to your home for a costly monthly fee,” according to the folks at Digital:Convergence.
“We are completing an internal alpha test of the software and are preparing for a beta test. The beta test will include a fully functional pre-release version of the :CRQ for Macintosh software,” an e-mail from the :CRQ for Macintosh Team said. “This test will allow us to identify and fix any problems, and to deal with any compatibility issues regarding various types of Macs and versions of the Mac OS (operating systems). The beta test will conclude at the end of March 2001.”
Minimum requirements for :CRQ for Mac software are: a Power Mac with a 100 MHz processor or better; Mac OS 8.6 or higher; Microsoft Internet Explorer 4 or later, Netscape Navigator 4 or later, AOL, or comparable browser; Internet access; 32 MB of application RAM; 5 MB of free hard drive space; CD-ROM drive (if installing from a CD-ROM); an available USB port (for the USB :CueCat reader); and an available sound input jack.
The :CueCat optical reader is a free hand-held device that attaches to your computer. About the size of a mouse, the :CueCat reader interacts with Digital:Convergence’s proprietary codes, ISBN codes, UPC codes, and others. With one swipe, the :CueCat reader transports you to a specific Web page.