Prepaid Cards

(4-10-04)
I just read a news report regarding prepaid Visa and Mastercards. They are like store gift cards but can be used anywhere. Apparently there will be a lot of promotions for them during the next year. Has anyone used one or learned the specifics regarding them? Could I get one without the usual bank connections?

John
(P.S. As of April, 2007, I am still not successful in getting such a prepaid card.  Can anyone help me?  Remember, I don't have "government issued" or "recognized" identification, as generally understood.)