In fact, a colleague and I published a paper just last year describing how to do this, and we released a free software package that allows anyone to test their BRCA genes at home on a desktop computer.

FORBES: Private companies own your DNA - again

Computers running Windows generated most problems for players, said Mr Las, as there were so many different ways to configure a desktop or home computer.

BBC: Gamers play for a living

In the meantime, Ice Computer reps have made the trip out to CES to demo the first functional xPad tablet, which is one of several platforms for the xPC, a smartphone-sized device that contains a complete computer and slides into desktop or home theater components (xDock), laptops (xTop) and the xPad we saw today.

ENGADGET: Ice Computer demos modular xPC with working 9.7-inch xPad tablet, we go hands-on at CES (video)

The MacBook Air Dock allows users to incorporate the MacBook Air into a desktop setup or home theater system, so users get the best features of a laptop, desktop and media center PC all from one computer.

ENGADGET: Henge Docks announces docking stations for MacBook Air, tidies up your desk layout