In message <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>, Rich Mellor <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> writes
>On Mon, 12 Feb 2007 19:55:39 -0000, Malcolm Cadman <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> >wrote: >> Yes, but programs like QWord show that the OS can now do good graphics >> ... it just needs another platform to run on, at present. >> > >That depends on your definition of platform. > >We decided that a 4 colour version of QWord would not be playable. An 8 >colour version was getting there, but you could only have a small grid and >so it was fairly pointless. > >However, with an Aurora motherboard, QPC2 or Qx0, the possibilities were >much more hopeful. Heck, we even made certain that it would work on >Aurora (plus SGC) without SMSQ/e. >It is interesting how new hardware can encourage people to write software >- we are working on an IDE / CF adaptor for the Spectrum (the DivIDE Plus) >and should actually manage to get this on the market for around £50, with >designers in Poland. However, the firmware is based on an earlier device >- the authors have been inspired to make use of the additional >functionality, but then they do not want payment for their work. > >Maybe that is the best side of the Sinclair market - people like to see >just what can be squeezed out of the old machines. It certainly proves the point that a lot of impressive software could develop, because new hardware gives a new challenge. >The problem is that there are no new QL hardware designers and it would be >a steep learning curve for anyone who wished to work on a new project. >Quanta offered funding to assist with new design, but there has to be the >market, willingness and time. Then we need firmware authors - Tony Tebby >always seems to have been closely involved in any hardware project since >the start of the QL - who else has actual experience of writing firmware >for the QL who we could call on? > >There are plenty of people still using the standard QL, but the figure >must be less than 200 and they must feel left behind. Quanta is losing >its membership fast, as people realise that they cannot expand their QL >any more than they have already (either in terms of software or hardware), >and without access to the internet, do not see the still-thriving >community - I wonder how many Super Gold Cards lie hidden away in lofts >and cupboards forgotten. As you know, SGC's are in demand now ... anyone reading this got one hidden in loft ? -- Malcolm Cadman _______________________________________________ QL-Users Mailing List http://www.q-v-d.demon.co.uk/smsqe.htm
