From: cyberman@toz.buffalo.ny.us (Cyberman)
Newsgroups: rec.games.programmer
Subject: UPDATE: Open Arch Games
Date: 1 Oct 92 23:57:19 GMT
X-Maildoor: WaflineMail 1.00r

It's ME again with a slight update:

    Since I did not originally post the intent or direction this
    idea was meant to go, I felt it is necessary to assist in
    getting any further on the idea.

    PROPOSAL:
        An open Architecture video entertainment machine.

    GOALS:

        1:  To fit within the boundary of $100 - $250 per unit
            retail price
        2:  A complete system for game development
            A:  a C/C++ compiler that will allow assembly/
                machine specific instructions
            B:  an OS with primitives for operating the machines
                features
                (1): access to video
                (2): various IO devices
                (3): small kernel for preemptive multitasking
                (4): access to audio
                (5): graphics primitives
                (6): anything else deemed necessary
            C:  a complete fully functional Debugger
                (1): step through program asm and src
                (2): edit any objects
                (3): alter states of IO
                (4): check conditions of all IO
                (5): remote from an external computer
            D:  graphic editor
                (1): a complete drawing set such as paint smudge
                    blend effects etc.
                (2): import/ export images in any format with
                    color correction for machine
                (3): allow test animation of sequences on machine
                (4): whatever else is necessary for production
        3:  Graphics primitives should be in hardware
        4:  Non Proprietary design
        5:  No Non disclosure license -
            you own the developers kit THAT's your license PERIOD
        6:  Expandable -
            (1): 2 or more slots for adding memory (more than the
                mother board holds that is)
            (2): will have SEVERAL video outputs PAL/NSTC in RF
                and direct output (?S-VHS ?VGA)
            (3): card for a CD-ROM
            (4): serial port  - this has MANY applications which
                will not be listed
        7: 320x200 x256 color (of a palette) resolution MINIMUM.

What has been discussed so far is:

    Resolution:
        320x200x256 (need I say more!?)

    Processor:
        This has been a topic for much debate.

        2 current processors TOP the list for the BEST route

        TMS340(10/20) - 32/16 bit
            These are EVERYThing needed rolled up in one.

        68k - this is fast but not fast enough in my opinion

        The BEST proposal is a hybrid of the 2.  Combining a 68k
        with a TMS340xx or 2 TMS340xx in tandem.

        It all depends on the effects on COST (there I go again!
        hehehe) of parts and labor

        Perhaps using the 68k and 340xx is an EXPANSION idea.
        This would make the game significantly more efficient.

    FEEDBACK to
    cyberman@toz.buffalo.ny.us

    If there is interest perhaps a mailing list will be created.

        Stephen Cyberman@Toz.Buffalo.NY.US
        Scripted at Thu  10-01-1992  17:08:31

... Thank goodness for carbon!
--- Blue Wave/QWK v2.10
                               
Newsgroups: rec.games.programmer