| From: | "Arno R. Lehmann" <arlehma@***.NET> |
|---|---|
| Subject: | Re: ASIST assistance? |
| Date: | Tue, 5 May 1998 00:03:55 +0200 |
>
>You're talking about the differences between machine code and the fluffy
>interface that you get with MacOS and Win95, if I'm correct? Dunno... I
>haven't taken that many in depth computer courses. I do know that there's
>an OS on the MPCP, just because the BBB says there is. What use the deck
>is in that situation is beyond me. But that's what it says. I suppose it
>has to be able to manage the the allocation of active memory and storage
>memory. I do like to think of it in the following terms, though.
>
>If I disconnect my monitor, my mouse, and/or my keyboard, my computer will
>still work. The usability is a little hindered, but the computer will
>continue to function just splendidly nonetheless. I have had to do stuff
>with one of those three missing, so it is possible. Just bloody difficult.
<snip>
>If I turn off my simsense rig, aka my Artificial Sensory Induction System,
>aka my ASIST, according to VR2.0, I now have a turtle or tortoise, or
>whatever you want to call it. The OS is in the MPCP, so I don't need to
>worry about it. Take out the MPCP, and I'd be screwed, but I can use my
>deck without the ASIST interface provided I have an alternative I/O
>resource available. I'd have to dig my keyboard and monitor out of storage
>and deck like that, but it is still possible.
>
Then perhaps you might want to call the ASIST an OS extension. Like
Windows is an Extension of DOS, X one of Unix, and so one.
So that would make it - if you want to use todays terms, which I am
sure is totally nonsense IMHO - a collection of normal programs and
device drivers and a user interface.
Arno
--
Arno Lehmann
arlehma@***.net http://www.geocities.com/TheTropics/Cabana/5274/
arno@*******.ast.uct.ac.za http://pinguin.ast.uct.ac.za
