During the 1998-1999 academic year a group of students began a project which involves turning an old soda vending machine into a “networked appliance.” This means that the soda machine will be controlled entirely by a computer running Linux. The Computer will be programmed to handle basic operations of processing money, handling selection, and activating the dispenser. To accomplish this task, students will design a hardware interface so that the computer can control the soda machine. Once this has been achieved, new functionality will be added, including local debit accounts for cash-less vending and a web server hosting the machine’s web page. The web page would then be used as an interface for several additional functions, such as inventory information, sales statistics, soda reservations, and debit account information. Other possible additions include a web-cam, which could place images of the customers on the web. Students who are interested in becoming part of this project should contact Professor Zimmerman or Professor Kelliher.