Paul Gilmartin wrote <begin extract> Regardless, nowadays, any 24->31 bit conversion is underreaching; shortsighted; mostly wasted resource. Go for 64! Even while RMODE 64 execution is mostly unsupported, the 64-bit interfaces can be coded and the code run AMODE 64 below the bar in the interim. </end extract>
This is a sentiment that I agree with strongly. It is, moreover, my own practice. Why then didn't I advocate it in my earlier posts in this thread? I took the temporizing position that AMODE(24) routines should be converted to AMODE(31) ones instead. Cowardice? Perhaps in some measure, but I had the strong sense that it would be a futile gesture to recommend AMODE(64). It often seems to me---Witness the neanderthal reactions to even that recommendation---that trailing-edge shops are emotionally unprepared to respond to technical imperatives. At most and not always they may be willing to take faltering baby steps in one of the right directions. I did learn something from this experience. I shall do no more temporizing. John Gilmore, Ashland, MA 01721 - USA
