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Message no. 1
From: "Leszek Karlik, aka Mike" <trrkt@*****.ONET.PL>
Subject: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Wed, 31 Dec 1997 04:16:21 +0000
An article about computers in Shadowrun, or, more specifically,
various programs.

The main point is, where was the last time your sammy hauled his
laptop around? Or, to be more precise, when was the last time any
runner in the team used his laptop for anything else than displaying
data form the Johnson (assuming he doesn't have a display link and a
datajack...)?

Anyway, I found the area of conventional computer software a bit...
lacking. So I've decided to create various programs for your average
laptop, so the runners get the incentive for lugging the good 'ole
computers around again...

Here's what I came with so far... I'll flesh all the progs out, but
first I'd like to know if you think I might have missed something...
--
Cryptography:
Encryption module
Decryption module

Basic sound processing software (replay, record and edit) + sound
hardware
Sound amplification module
Wide-band analysis (low- and hi-freq)
3D-sound mapping software (see through walls! etc.)
Ultrasound spoofer module + hardware
Select Sound Filter module
Voice Mask (distorting) module
Voice Recognition module
Voice Pattern Duplication module
Voice Pattern Identification module
Music analysis

Basic image processing software (replay, record and edit)
Video processing module
Electronic Magnification module
Passive range-finder module
Contrast enhancing (i.e. low-light) module
Contrast change compensation (flare comp)
Image recognition software

Expert software (Knowledge skills)
Diagnostic software (B/R skills)
MINAB (Medic-in-a-box: Biotech 1/First Aid 4) software

Electronics diagnostics module (add to skill)

Demolitions Expert software

Translation software

B&E
Keypad sequencing software + hardware
Passcard sequencing software + hardware
Maglock analyser software (adds to skill)
TimeLock SpeedUp
TimeLock Reprogram

TURTLE_ Cyberdeck Emulator (hmm... even tortoises are better than
this crap... MCPC1, B1, S1, E0, M0, No programs higher than 3, no
initiative bonus, no hacking pool, no nothing...

U-DRIVER VCR Emulator (kinda like VCR rating -5... Yeah, MINUS FIVE.
Still, lets you drive rigged-only vehicles...)

Tactical coordination software (Battle-Tac-in-a-chip_) ;P

Radio frequency scanning software

Phone software
Vidphone sidebander program
PingPong
Satpong
Tap detector (+ hardware)

Anything else? (Also, rules for processing power and multitasking)


Leszek Karlik, aka Mike - trrkt@*****.onet.pl; http://www.wlkp.top.pl/~bear/mike;
Star Wars fan and Amber junkie; FIAWOL; WTF TKD TOO;
FL/GN Leszek/Raptor II/ISD Vanguard, (SS) (PC) (ISM) {IWATS-IIC} JH(Sith)/House Scholae
Palatinae
How did I get so round from eating square meals?!?
Message no. 2
From: Timothy Teravainen <p042668b@**.SEFLIN.ORG>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Wed, 31 Dec 1997 12:24:27 -0500
On Wed, 31 Dec 1997, Leszek Karlik, aka Mike wrote:

> An article about computers in Shadowrun, or, more specifically,
> various programs.
>
> Anyway, I found the area of conventional computer software a bit...
> lacking. So I've decided to create various programs for your average
> laptop, so the runners get the incentive for lugging the good 'ole
> computers around again...
>
> Anything else? (Also, rules for processing power and multitasking)
>
Rules for quickly "hacking" together a program. Therefore:
programming languages. (Say there's a sentry gun, unknown manufacturer.
Fortunately the manufacturer left a repair/diagnostic port open, which is
then noticed by a penetrating decker (Perception (8)). He then runs to
it, avoiding a LOT offlying ammunition (wow!), and pulls out one of a
variety of patch cables, each terminating with a standard PCMCIA VII
connector on one end, and various standard connectors on the other.
After determining he has the appropriate one (random test), he begins to
write a program to reprogram the sentry gun. How hard is it to write a
program here, or is it better to just say: Computers (TN: 10) <obscure
manufacturer, tense situation, etc>. On the black mark't, there will
probably be some expert systems available to quickly analyze most
corporate sec. devices (to what degree is another question), and even
hack them. So, if the computer is implemented, you gotta ask: how many
of these devices have "diagnostic slots", to allow repair (and, hacking. :)
Or, use the computer to diagnose your own cyber. Monitor
adrenaline/other mind-body influencing drugs, condition of spurs, et
cetera with a convenient view-screen. Of course, this would also be
available for a display link, but that's another story. (And, again,
what if your display link goes PFFFT!?)
Basically, a computer can emulate any digital hardware, through
software emulation, and since it can be assumed that SR computers are
pretty darned fast, they can emulate most standard electronics in the SR
and StreetSam books w/o much problem. (Welcome to Tracking Device
Manager: you are currently tracking (8) targets...) It's all a matter of
kludging togethet an interface. Electronics (?)?
Ah well, hope that wasn't ALL babble. EOF

-Timothy Teravainen
-p042668b@**.seflin.org
Message no. 3
From: "Paolo Falco, Explorer" <Falco@****.IT>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Thu, 1 Jan 1998 15:42:14 +0100
Leszek Karlik, aka Mike thus did speak about REGISTRATION: Megapulses
for the av:

> The main point is, where was the last time your sammy hauled his
> laptop around? Or, to be more precise, when was the last time any
> runner in the team used his laptop for anything else than displaying
> data form the Johnson (assuming he doesn't have a display link and a
> datajack...)?

My bodyguard has her computer with her all the time. But it's a great
idea nonetheless...

> Cryptography:
> Encryption module
> Decryption module

I bet some simple stuff like these is already included with most
computers.

> Basic sound processing software (replay, record and edit) + sound
> hardware

Would it need specialized hardware?

> Sound amplification module
> Wide-band analysis (low- and hi-freq)
> 3D-sound mapping software (see through walls! etc.)

This sounds a little too powerful... Why not simply lets you know how
many are behind a wall and such? It'd need a specially-rigged laser
mic (perhaps a laser mic, smartlink-2, input card, datajack combo) to
be able to actually MAP people on the other side... And with some
uncertainties.

> Ultrasound spoofer module + hardware
> Select Sound Filter module
> Voice Mask (distorting) module
> Voice Recognition module
> Voice Pattern Duplication module
> Voice Pattern Identification module
> Music analysis

Who would want to analyze elevator muzak? :)

> Basic image processing software (replay, record and edit)

Needs hardware?

> Video processing module
> Electronic Magnification module
> Passive range-finder module

This should need a specialized piece of equipment such as a stereo
camera or IR rangefinder. There's no other way AFAIK.

> Contrast enhancing (i.e. low-light) module
> Contrast change compensation (flare comp)

Ah, but is this fast enough?

> Image recognition software

Touchy, very, very touchy.

> Expert software (Knowledge skills)
> Diagnostic software (B/R skills)
> MINAB (Medic-in-a-box: Biotech 1/First Aid 4) software
>
> Electronics diagnostics module (add to skill)
>
> Demolitions Expert software
>
> Translation software
>
> B&E
> Keypad sequencing software + hardware

In NAGTTRW, they said that actually, no kind of keypad or passcard
sequencing is possible if the keypad is minimally smart. Are you
going to make your program smarter? I bet you could actually loop
around the time-sensor, but it would probably need hardware
components too.

> Passcard sequencing software + hardware
> Maglock analyser software (adds to skill)

Again, hardware cards are needed for the maglock to be inserted in.

> TimeLock SpeedUp
> TimeLock Reprogram
>
> TURTLE_ Cyberdeck Emulator (hmm... even tortoises are better than
> this crap... MCPC1, B1, S1, E0, M0, No programs higher than 3, no
> initiative bonus, no hacking pool, no nothing...

Still useful to get info from the ice-cream vendor :)

> U-DRIVER VCR Emulator (kinda like VCR rating -5... Yeah, MINUS FIVE.
> Still, lets you drive rigged-only vehicles...)

GREAT! I like this. I'd buy it. We don't have a rigger in our group.
And basically, you only need a stupid autopilot that selectively
filters input and let you drive with the keyboard. VERY Slowly, bu it
still moves. I bet it would need a card too, however.

> Tactical coordination software (Battle-Tac-in-a-chip_) ;P
>
> Radio frequency scanning software

Again, great! This is wonderful to see if that rigger you just
captured is scrambling SOS signals to the world. But again, I bet a
card is required. Ordinary comps don't have an aerial.

> Phone software
> Vidphone sidebander program
> PingPong
> Satpong
> Tap detector (+ hardware)

Hmmmm... Tap detector... hmmm....

-------------------------------------------------------------------
Paolo Falco | "Every artist is a cannibal, every poet is a thief
(explorer) | all kill for inspiration and sing about their grief"
--------------------------------------------- U2, "the fly" -------
The Anarchic Lemmings Corporation: a new way of thinking
http://www.geocities.com/SoHo/2717
Message no. 4
From: "Leszek Karlik, aka Mike" <trrkt@*****.ONET.PL>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Thu, 1 Jan 1998 20:23:18 +0000
On 31 Dec 97, Timothy Teravainen disseminated foul capitalist
propaganda by writing:

<some cute ideas snipped>
> Or, use the computer to diagnose your own cyber. Monitor
> adrenaline/other mind-body influencing drugs, condition of spurs, et
> cetera with a convenient view-screen. Of course, this would also be
> available for a display link, but that's another story. (And,
> again, what if your display link goes PFFFT!?)

Well, that would be Cybertechnology expert system, or Cyberware
diagnostic system... (Though I though about specialistic proggies for
smartlink calibration and stuff...)

> Basically, a computer can emulate any digital hardware,
> through
> software emulation, and since it can be assumed that SR computers
> are pretty darned fast, they can emulate most standard electronics
> in the SR and StreetSam books w/o much problem. (Welcome to
> Tracking Device Manager: you are currently tracking (8) targets...)
> It's all a matter of kludging togethet an interface. Electronics
> (?)?

Yep, and they're probably cheaper... Now, there's no reason to buy,
say, 800 Mp laptop unless you're a decker and want to write your own
programs.


Leszek Karlik, aka Mike - trrkt@*****.onet.pl; http://www.wlkp.top.pl/~bear/mike;
Star Wars fan and Amber junkie; FIAWOL; WTF TKD TOO;
FL/GN Leszek/Raptor II/ISD Vanguard, (SS) (PC) (ISM) {IWATS-IIC} JH(Sith)/House Scholae
Palatinae
No honey, it's only a computer, PLEASE put down the gun..
Message no. 5
From: "Leszek Karlik, aka Mike" <trrkt@*****.ONET.PL>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Thu, 1 Jan 1998 20:23:18 +0000
On 1 Jan 98, Paolo Falco, Explorer disseminated foul capitalist
propaganda by writing:

<snip>
> > Cryptography:
> > Encryption module
> > Decryption module
>
> I bet some simple stuff like these is already included with most
> computers.

Yes, simple, I'd say Rating 0. <grin> (And only Encryption. What
legitimate SINner needs decryption software, eh? ;> )

> > Basic sound processing software (replay, record and edit) + sound
> > hardware
>
> Would it need specialized hardware?

Well, for some modules the built-in sound card and micro should be
enough, but it's very simple, so it just wouldn't cut it for more
sophisticated stuff...

<snip>
> > 3D-sound mapping software (see through walls! etc.)
>
> This sounds a little too powerful... Why not simply lets you know
> how many are behind a wall and such? It'd need a specially-rigged
> laser mic (perhaps a laser mic, smartlink-2, input card, datajack
> combo) to be able to actually MAP people on the other side... And
> with some uncertainties.

Yes, that's what I had in mind. (It would be still advertised as "See
through walls") As for mapping people on the other side, I though
about using a special microphone array, e.g. 5 mics in 1-2 m
distances, attached to the wall... Or a few laser mics...

And it still wouldn't be too accurate and wouldn't find the guys that
are just standing there, not walking around or talking (well, with
high enough sensivitiy you could possibly find them by their
breathing... <grin>). Not to mention any white noise generator will
play merry hell with the system.

<snip>
> > Music analysis
>
> Who would want to analyze elevator muzak? :)

Errr... Rockers?

> > Basic image processing software (replay, record and edit)

> Needs hardware?

Oh, yeah, slipped my keyboard. <grin>

<snip>
> > Passive range-finder module

> This should need a specialized piece of equipment such as a stereo
> camera or IR rangefinder. There's no other way AFAIK.

Well, one can move the camera sideways. And compare, say, frame 1
with frame 10, 2 meters to the left.

> > Contrast enhancing (i.e. low-light) module
> > Contrast change compensation (flare comp)
>
> Ah, but is this fast enough?

Should be. <grin>

<snip>
> > B&E
> > Keypad sequencing software + hardware
>
> In NAGTTRW, they said that actually, no kind of keypad or passcard
> sequencing is possible if the keypad is minimally smart. Are you
> going to make your program smarter? I bet you could actually loop
> around the time-sensor, but it would probably need hardware
> components too.

Well, I don't have NAGTTRW, only CorpSec HB. ;( Still, do rules from
NAGTTRW invalidate CS HB? I was about using the soft in the similar
way as the sequencer from CS, needing specialized hardware, of
course...

> > Passcard sequencing software + hardware
> > Maglock analyser software (adds to skill)
>
> Again, hardware cards are needed for the maglock to be inserted in.

Actually, I though about something on the line of keypad sequencer,
that requires the user to remove the casing. I mean, maglock
passcards are all fine and dandy, but they cots lotsa cash, esp. when
compared to keypad sequencers, and I have assumed the difference to
stem mainly from the fact that you don't attach the passcard to
actual circuits, so it has to be a lot smarter... A "conventional"
sequencer for passcard maglocks would be IMO much cheaper, in the
price range of keyboard sequencer.

<snip>
> > TURTLE_ Cyberdeck Emulator (hmm... even tortoises are better than
> > this crap... MCPC1, B1, S1, E0, M0, No programs higher than 3, no
> > initiative bonus, no hacking pool, no nothing...
>
> Still useful to get info from the ice-cream vendor :)

Or accessing Shadowland and other BBSes. (Not everybody with no
cyberdeck has no Computer skill. Most of my chars have
Computer/Software of 1-2 points, specially for accessing BBSes etc.)

> > U-DRIVER VCR Emulator (kinda like VCR rating -5... Yeah, MINUS FIVE.
> > Still, lets you drive rigged-only vehicles...)
>
> GREAT! I like this. I'd buy it. We don't have a rigger in our group.
> And basically, you only need a stupid autopilot that selectively
> filters input and let you drive with the keyboard. VERY Slowly, bu
> it still moves. I bet it would need a card too, however.

Yep. And hardware to link it with the vehicle... (That's where the
laptop is better, as it's hard to fit cards, even very small ones,
into wrist computers. <grin>)

<snip>
> > Radio frequency scanning software
>
> Again, great! This is wonderful to see if that rigger you just
> captured is scrambling SOS signals to the world. But again, I bet a
> card is required. Ordinary comps don't have an aerial.

Yep. A card or a connection with a normal radio... (The one you're
carrying for secure communication, for example)


Leszek Karlik, aka Mike - trrkt@*****.onet.pl; http://www.wlkp.top.pl/~bear/mike;
Star Wars fan and Amber junkie; FIAWOL; WTF TKD TOO;
FL/GN Leszek/Raptor II/ISD Vanguard, (SS) (PC) (ISM) {IWATS-IIC} JH(Sith)/House Scholae
Palatinae
BLOW YOUR MIND - smoke gunpowder.
Message no. 6
From: GKoth2258 <GKoth2258@***.COM>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Thu, 1 Jan 1998 15:49:48 EST
Hey, don't forget about video games for that notebook computer...gotta play
DOOM 49 while waiting for the suprathyroid samurai to raid the Stuffer
Shack...smash a bit of Quake 33 on the way to the meet with the Johnson...a
little Duke Nukem 69! (Dude!) to piss of the Johnson during the meet...and so
on...

In other words, inject a little humor, eh?

Happy New Year!

Erik J.
Message no. 7
From: Sasquatch <ab130f92@*******.ADELPHI.EDU>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Thu, 1 Jan 1998 16:15:29 -0500
At 20:23 1/1/98 +0000, you wrote:
>
><snip>
>> > Cryptography:
>> > Encryption module
>> > Decryption module
>>
>> I bet some simple stuff like these is already included with most
>> computers.
>
>Yes, simple, I'd say Rating 0. <grin> (And only Encryption. What
>legitimate SINner needs decryption software, eh? ;> )

Remeber though that the encrypt would also contain a decrypt for those who
had the key. Ex: PGP. But you are right. Legits wouldn't have a straight
decrypt only package. Ex: Crack.



Sasquatch

---------------------------------------------------------------------
| |
| Vidi, vici, veni |
| (Figure that one out.) |
| |
| ab130f92@*******.adelphi.edu |
| tech@*******.adelphi.edu blair@*****.adelphi.edu |
| No Website (No time to make one) |
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Message no. 8
From: Barbie <barbie@**********.COM>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Sat, 3 Jan 1998 01:14:16 +0100
At 31-Dez-97 wrote Leszek Karlik, aka Mike:


>Tactical coordination software (Battle-Tac-in-a-chip_) ;P

Barbie uses an similiar proc o her deck to run battle field simulations.
Very nice, since the deck is hocked up to an Battle Tac unit :)

--

Barbie
---------------------------------------------------------------
Did you know what a rhinoceros is?
All that is left from the unicorn.

http://www.amigaworld.com/barbie
FAQ keeper of SR_D, the german Shadowrun mailing list.
Amiga RC5 Team effort member.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Message no. 9
From: George H Metz <wolfstar@****.COM>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Tue, 6 Jan 1998 06:06:29 -0500
On Thu, 1 Jan 1998 20:23:18 +0000 "Leszek Karlik, aka Mike"
<trrkt@*****.ONET.PL> writes:

><snip>
>> > Cryptography:
>> > Encryption module
>> > Decryption module
>>
>> I bet some simple stuff like these is already included with most
>> computers.
>
>Yes, simple, I'd say Rating 0. <grin> (And only Encryption. What
>legitimate SINner needs decryption software, eh? ;> )

Assuming you mean cracking software, none. Unless, of course, you just
"happen" to be the type of guy who is security conscious but can never
remember his passwords..... =>

>> > Basic sound processing software (replay, record and edit) + sound
>> > hardware
>>
>> Would it need specialized hardware?
>
>Well, for some modules the built-in sound card and micro should be
>enough, but it's very simple, so it just wouldn't cut it for more
>sophisticated stuff...

Depending, of course. You apparently haven't seen some of the obscene
things that RL high-end sound cards can do. Add 60 years or so to the
tech, and your wristwatch'll be able to tell you which of those 100
violins you're listening to has worn strings. =)

><snip>
>> > 3D-sound mapping software (see through walls! etc.)
>>
>> This sounds a little too powerful... Why not simply lets you know
>> how many are behind a wall and such? It'd need a specially-rigged
>> laser mic (perhaps a laser mic, smartlink-2, input card, datajack
>> combo) to be able to actually MAP people on the other side... And
>> with some uncertainties.
>
>Yes, that's what I had in mind. (It would be still advertised as "See
>through walls") As for mapping people on the other side, I though
>about using a special microphone array, e.g. 5 mics in 1-2 m
>distances, attached to the wall... Or a few laser mics...

Laser mics won't work well simply because the angle the sound is coming
in at would be hard to detect on the glass. You MIGHT be able to do it if
there's two windows and you've got, say, four or five laser mics on each,
but that gets a bit unweildy. Ultrasound systems work much better,
although they could give you away easily(those darned cyberears....)

>And it still wouldn't be too accurate and wouldn't find the guys that
>are just standing there, not walking around or talking (well, with
>high enough sensivitiy you could possibly find them by their
>breathing... <grin>). Not to mention any white noise generator will
>play merry hell with the system.

Again, Ultrasound solves this.

><snip>
>> > Music analysis
>>
>> Who would want to analyze elevator muzak? :)
>
>Errr... Rockers?

Sound techs, conductors, keyboardists, simsense editors, etc. (Does it
ALL have to have an illegitimate use? =) )

>> > Basic image processing software (replay, record and edit)
>
>> Needs hardware?
>
>Oh, yeah, slipped my keyboard. <grin>
>
><snip>
>> > Passive range-finder module
>
>> This should need a specialized piece of equipment such as a stereo
>> camera or IR rangefinder. There's no other way AFAIK.
>
>Well, one can move the camera sideways. And compare, say, frame 1
>with frame 10, 2 meters to the left.

Unnecessary, a computer can utilize a camera lens' focal length and fine
detail processing to come within a foot or two of the actual range in RL.
Tack on 60 years....

>> > Contrast enhancing (i.e. low-light) module
>> > Contrast change compensation (flare comp)
>>
>> Ah, but is this fast enough?
>
>Should be. <grin>

Assuming it's routing to the screen, yes. Whether you can see the screen
afterwards is another matter if the same flash blinded you.

>> > U-DRIVER VCR Emulator (kinda like VCR rating -5... Yeah, MINUS FIVE.
>> > Still, lets you drive rigged-only vehicles...)
>>
>> GREAT! I like this. I'd buy it. We don't have a rigger in our group.
>> And basically, you only need a stupid autopilot that selectively
>> filters input and let you drive with the keyboard. VERY Slowly, bu
>> it still moves. I bet it would need a card too, however.
>
>Yep. And hardware to link it with the vehicle... (That's where the
>laptop is better, as it's hard to fit cards, even very small ones,
>into wrist computers. <grin>)

Actually, it could use a game joystick - I'd imagine they still make 'em
- as a control interface, and the screen itself could display non-visual
sensor data. At that point it'd be almost like driving a normal vehicle
with enhanced controls, and gives you sensor data to boot. It'd have to
filter out or interpret ASIST data somehow, though.
><snip>
>> > Radio frequency scanning software
>>
>> Again, great! This is wonderful to see if that rigger you just
>> captured is scrambling SOS signals to the world. But again, I bet a
>> card is required. Ordinary comps don't have an aerial.
>
>Yep. A card or a connection with a normal radio... (The one you're
>carrying for secure communication, for example)

Nice thought. Question though, why lug around a laptop for this when you
can run down to the local electronics store, pick up a nice, compact
radio scanner for about two hundred nuyen, and then "modify" it to pick
up such goodies as cellular and satellite bands?

--
Wolfstar - wolfstar@****.com - Home Page Under Construction!

Some people simply are a waste of space on the buttocks of humanity.
-- Avenger

-----BEGIN GEEK CODE BLOCK-----
Version 3.1
GAT/! d- s+:+ a-- C++(++++)>$ U+ P? L>++ E? W++(--) N- o? K- w(--) O>+ M
!V PS+ PE+ Y+ PGP t+ 5+++ X R++ tv+ b+(+++) DI++ D--- G e h!-- r*
y+/-(--)
------END GEEK CODE BLOCK------
Message no. 10
From: George H Metz <wolfstar@****.COM>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Wed, 7 Jan 1998 12:11:36 -0500
On Sat, 3 Jan 1998 01:14:16 +0100 Barbie <barbie@**********.COM> writes:
>At 31-Dez-97 wrote Leszek Karlik, aka Mike:
>
>
>>Tactical coordination software (Battle-Tac-in-a-chip_) ;P
>
>Barbie uses an similiar proc o her deck to run battle field simulations.
>Very nice, since the deck is hocked up to an Battle Tac unit :)

Along those lines, make sure the tech junkie has a good simsense deck
and spends a lot of time programming it with the mage; that way you can
generally get the entire team through a run before-hand as a simulation,
and it makes training time really inexpensive(no ammo expenditures =) ).
I've used this before for runs, and the GM usually will tell us when
something's different between the "real" area/situation and the
"simulated" one. I'm still waiting for one of my groups to tumble to the
idea.

--
Wolfstar - wolfstar@****.com - Home Page Under Construction!

Some people simply are a waste of space on the buttocks of humanity.
-- Avenger

-----BEGIN GEEK CODE BLOCK-----
Version 3.1
GAT/! d- s+:+ a-- C++(++++)>$ U+ P? L>++ E? W++(--) N- o? K- w(--) O>+ M
!V PS+ PE+ Y+ PGP t+ 5+++ X R++ tv+ b+(+++) DI++ D--- G e h!-- r*
y+/-(--)
------END GEEK CODE BLOCK------
Message no. 11
From: "Leszek Karlik, aka Mike" <trrkt@*****.ONET.PL>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Wed, 7 Jan 1998 21:18:27 +0000
On 6 Jan 98, George H Metz disseminated foul capitalist propaganda
by writing:

<snip>
> >Yes, simple, I'd say Rating 0. <grin> (And only Encryption. What
> >legitimate SINner needs decryption software, eh? ;> )
>
> Assuming you mean cracking software, none. Unless, of course, you
> just
> "happen" to be the type of guy who is security conscious but can
> never remember his passwords..... =>

Yeah, like me. <grin>

<snip>
> >Well, for some modules the built-in sound card and micro should be
> >enough, but it's very simple, so it just wouldn't cut it for more
> >sophisticated stuff...
>
> Depending, of course. You apparently haven't seen some of the
> obscene
> things that RL high-end sound cards can do. Add 60 years or so to
> the tech, and your wristwatch'll be able to tell you which of those
> 100 violins you're listening to has worn strings. =)

Yeah. If you buy a high-end sound card, of course, and shell out more
¥¥¥... (A "normal" user won't need one, so he'll stay with his
good
old simple and cheap soundcard...)

<snip>
> >> Who would want to analyze elevator muzak? :)
> >
> >Errr... Rockers?
>
> Sound techs, conductors, keyboardists, simsense editors, etc. (Does
> it
> ALL have to have an illegitimate use? =) )

YEAH!!!! (Well, not really...)

<snip>
> >> > Contrast change compensation (flare comp)
> >>
> >> Ah, but is this fast enough?
> >
> >Should be. <grin>
>
> Assuming it's routing to the screen, yes. Whether you can see the
> screen
> afterwards is another matter if the same flash blinded you.

Yep... Well, it's more for processing recordings...

<snip>

> >Yep. And hardware to link it with the vehicle... (That's where the
> >laptop is better, as it's hard to fit cards, even very small ones,
> >into wrist computers. <grin>)
>
> Actually, it could use a game joystick - I'd imagine they still
> make 'em
> - as a control interface, and the screen itself could display
> non-visual sensor data. At that point it'd be almost like driving a
> normal vehicle with enhanced controls, and gives you sensor data to
> boot. It'd have to filter out or interpret ASIST data somehow,
> though.

Well, driving a normal vehicle with a laptop is not something I'd
like, though... I still prefer the ole steering wheel...
(But yes, a joystick would be useful)

<snip>
> Nice thought. Question though, why lug around a laptop for this
> when you
> can run down to the local electronics store, pick up a nice, compact
> radio scanner for about two hundred nuyen, and then "modify" it to
> pick up such goodies as cellular and satellite bands?

Well, because it doesn't have to be a laptop? Get a pocket computer,
splice it into your commnet equipment and you've got yourself a
pretty nice system, with many more possibilities than a
simple scanner...

Leszek Karlik, aka Mike - trrkt@*****.onet.pl; http://www.wlkp.top.pl/~bea=
r/mike
Amber fan and Star Wars junkie; WTF TKD; FIAWOL; YMMV; IMAO; RTFM
-----BEGIN GEEK CODE BLOCK-----
GL/O d-(--) s+:- a19 c+++ W++ N+++ o+@ K? w(---) O@ M- PS+(+++) PE Y+ PGP=
- !t--- 5+(-) X- R*+++>$ tv- b++++ D+ G-- e* h--*! ! r !y-*
------END GEEK CODE BLOCK------
LOVE THY NEIGHBOUR - regularly.
Message no. 12
From: Predator Omega <ba1764@*******.BAYNET.DE>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Thu, 8 Jan 1998 00:20:24 +0100
I think the most important question is still missing: How much for the
stuff?
I'm waiting for the prices, because I think this defines how usefull the
stuff should be at all. A 100 Nuyen programm shouldn't be able to do a
lot, but a 100,000 nuyen prog could be extremly powerful.

Pred
Message no. 13
From: "Leszek Karlik, aka Mike" <trrkt@*****.ONET.PL>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Thu, 8 Jan 1998 02:10:28 +0000
On 8 Jan 98, Predator Omega disseminated foul capitalist propaganda
by writing:

> I think the most important question is still missing: How much for
> the stuff? I'm waiting for the prices, because I think this defines
> how usefull the stuff should be at all. A 100 Nuyen programm
> shouldn't be able to do a lot, but a 100,000 nuyen prog could be
> extremly powerful.

Hey, that was just a draft to see if anybody's interested... I'm
working on that stuff, and in the process I have redesigned the
personal computers section from the BBB... (well, the 20¥ per Mp
simply makes no sense.)


Leszek Karlik, aka Mike - trrkt@*****.onet.pl; http://www.wlkp.top.pl/~bea=
r/mike;
Star Wars fan and Amber junkie; FIAWOL; WTF TKD TOO;
FL/GN Leszek/Raptor II/ISD Vanguard, (SS) (PC) (ISM) {IWATS-IIC} JH(Sith)=
/House Scholae Palatinae
Antidisestablishmentarianism is easier done than said.
Message no. 14
From: Timothy Teravainen <p042668b@**.SEFLIN.ORG>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Wed, 7 Jan 1998 22:09:15 -0500
On Thu, 8 Jan 1998, Predator Omega wrote:

> I think the most important question is still missing: How much for the
> stuff?
> I'm waiting for the prices, because I think this defines how usefull the
> stuff should be at all. A 100 Nuyen programm shouldn't be able to do a
> lot, but a 100,000 nuyen prog could be extremly powerful.
>
I think the idea of such concrete prices for programs in
Shadowrun is absurd. First of all, these programs (at least the ones the
deckers buy) are illegal, or (quasi-)legal programs used in illegal
manners. Given such and coupled with the ease of duplication of
software, how can there really be a"market" per se of such il/quasi/legal
software? Just like in today's world, it would be based on the contacts
of the runner, as well as his/her (shudder) "37eeT"-ness in the shadow
community (although hopefully they'll have a better term in 60+
years...:) How much does the amount of money a software pirate has
influence how quickly he obtains pre-release software? (Well, after he
buys he hardware, of course.) Not too much. There are of course, the
Crime Mall Software Stores located in such prestigious areas as Puyallup
Barrens, but really the true elites of cyberspace laugh at this. To any
decker worth hiring, buying software at such a market would be like
buying shareware (RL), and paying the "nominal" $8.00 distribution fee that
the distribution company (only pseudo-legally) tacks on.

-Timothy Teravainen
-p042668b@**.seflin.org
Message no. 15
From: Pete Wilson <piatro@**********.COM>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Wed, 7 Jan 1998 22:43:02 -0600
Lottsa' people wrote:

>
>> >Yep. And hardware to link it with the vehicle... (That's where the
>> >laptop is better, as it's hard to fit cards, even very small ones,
>> >into wrist computers. <grin>)
>>
>> Actually, it could use a game joystick - I'd imagine they still
>> make 'em
>> - as a control interface, and the screen itself could display
>> non-visual sensor data. At that point it'd be almost like driving a
>> normal vehicle with enhanced controls, and gives you sensor data to
>> boot. It'd have to filter out or interpret ASIST data somehow,
>> though.
>
>Well, driving a normal vehicle with a laptop is not something I'd
>like, though... I still prefer the ole steering wheel...
>(But yes, a joystick would be useful)
>

But in a vehicle designed to run _only_ under rigger control there might be
no physical controls at all.

Piatro

This sig left intentionally blank.
Message no. 16
From: Les Ward <lward@*******.COM>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Mon, 12 Jan 1998 11:09:26 -0500
Leszek Karlik, aka Mike - trrkt@*****.onet.pl;
>Hey, that was just a draft to see if anybody's interested... I'm
>working on that stuff, and in the process I have redesigned the
>personal computers section from the BBB... (well, the 20¥ per Mp
>simply makes no sense.)

Another comment for anyone working Matrix software: FASA's concept that
higher rating programs are therefore larger is non-sensical at best,
especially for utilities. For example, RSA encryption is stronger (i.e. has
a higher rating) than DES, but the code to do both of these algorithms is
roughly the same size. Further, RSA using 128-bit keys is orders of
magnitude stronger than RSA with 52-bit keys, yet the code that runs both
of these is almost the same size. Higher rating programs are smarter, not
neccessarily bigger.

Another, more real-world example. Microsoft Word is huge, yet it is not
significantly more powerful than, say, Nisus Writer, which only needs 3Mb
of RAM to run and takes about half the disk space.

Wordman
Message no. 17
From: Sasquatch <ab130f92@*******.ADELPHI.EDU>
Subject: Re: REGISTRATION: Megapulses for the average runner
Date: Mon, 12 Jan 1998 11:23:03 -0500
[SNIP]
>Another, more real-world example. Microsoft Word is huge, yet it is not
>significantly more powerful than, say, Nisus Writer, which only needs 3Mb
>of RAM to run and takes about half the disk space.
>
>Wordman

So essentially your saying that the size of the program is proportional to
the size of the company and the CEO's ego.

;)



Sasquatch

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