Dependable computing in the context of mobility, nomadicity, ubiquity, and pervasiveness

Summary form only given. This paper examines four aspects of computing and communications that are widely accepted and commonly confused: mobility, nomadicity, ubiquity, and pervasiveness. These attributes of present and future digital devices provide significant opportunities for new markets and important challenges in design for dependability. The relationship between dependability and the public is presented. Alternative approaches to dependability appropriate for consumers are discussed. Particular digital devices considered include cell phones, PDAs, notebook computers, and RFID.