Richard Menedetter wrote:
>
> But IMHO no real mode and therefor no DOS.
>
> But what should they do with it ??
> Do you want to run a single user, single task OS with a 640 KB memory limit
> on a processor <snip>
Hi.
I have been trying to avoid getting sucked into this discussion but the
temptation is just too strong. <G>
I would like re-work a few points and will try to begin with fact and move
toward opinion.
1) Fact: The Intel 8086 and 8088 do not have any built-in 640k limit.
2) Fact: DOS does not have any inherent 640k limit. If you experience what
appears to be a 640k limit, this is due to your choice of hardware. Some
bioses assume VGA and will not let you use more than 640k. If you doubt
this, remove your VGA card, install a Hercules card and tell any decent
bios you want 704k low.
3) Fact: DOS means Disc Operating System. There is nothing preventing a DOS
(16 or 32 bit) from being multi-user or multi-tasking - except finding an
author.
4) Fact: There is nothing preventing someone from writing a 32bit DOS except
economics and compatibility with sub '386 processors. 16Bit DOS code could
run in this 32bit DOS.
5) Fact: A 32bit OS provides no inherent advantages over a 16bit OS except
for allowing FATWARE programmers to access more memory faster.
6) Fact: A 32bit OS doesn't necessarily exclude use of REAL mode.
7) Fact: Himem.sys uses a 32bit mode called Flat Real Mode to access your
memory. This mode allows DOS to access 4 Gb of memory as long as you don't
use any protected mode applications (such as memory managers).
See: http://www.csoft.net/~johnfine/segments.htm
8) Opinion: I'm prolly gonna get flamed.
9) Fact: Now donning asbestos underware. Allow 10 minutes for full suitup.
- Clarence Verge
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