Xerox puts laboratory work on display

Xerox has launched a web site which aims to directly connect computer users and developers with its laboratory research and the engineers behind ongoing projects.

Open Xerox allows people to try out experimental projects and offer feedback directly to researchers in the company's laboratory facilities.

Among the projects currently offered are imaging applications, translation tools and file conversion utilities. Some of the services can be run through Xerox imaging devices that support the Extensible Interface Platform.

The project was developed as a joint initiative between the France-based Research Centre Europe and the US-based Webster Research Center.

Xerox hopes that the project will allow researchers to better connect with users and quickly receive feedback.

"At Xerox we encourage change, push the limits of the unknown and explore new approaches to innovation," said Xerox chief technology officer Sophie Vandebroek.

"Collaboration with users across the globe brings fresh ideas, diverse opinions and expertise that enable game-changing innovations for our customers. "

Xerox has long been involved in innovative laboratory work, and the company's Palo Alto Research Center (PARC) has been credited with helping to establish the culture and reputation of Silicon Valley.

Among the technologies pioneered at PARC were the graphical user interface, Ethernet networking and object-oriented programming.