For those of you who are interested in trying new REBOL kernels... here's something to test out. It's the Alpha release of REBOL/Base.
Q: What is REBOL/Base? A: REBOL/Base is a reduction of REBOL/Core trimmed down to the essential native and mezzanine functions and schemes. All protocols, help information, and functions are stripped, but can be added back on an individual basis. Q: Why would REBOL Tech build such a thing? A: REBOL/Base is designed for developers who want to create minimal REBOL environments and precisely control what functions they initialize. For instance, if you only need SMTP or HTTP, why take the time and space to boot all the other protocols? Q: Why are we releasing an Alpha test version? A: The idea of a REBOL subset is new and contrary to our rule that REBOL executables must include everything. We want to see what developers think of this idea. Q: Does REBOL/Base startup faster? A: Yes, because it has fewer mezzanine functions and schemes, it starts faster (good for stuff like CGI, etc.). Q: Does it take less memory? A: Yes, if you RECYCLE after booting, then type STATS you'll see that it takes about 0.578 MB. Most of this space is used by internal buffers, function spec blocks, critical mezz functions, and the word table. The executable file is 235 KB. Q: Does /Base include graphics functions? A: No. But, there will be a similar version of REBOL/View (as of yet unnamed, got any ideas?). Q: How can I see what's in it? A: Open REBOL/Core and type SOURCE WHAT. Cut and paste it into the REBOL/Base console, and type WHAT. Q: Where do I get source code for the missing modules, such as the TCP protocols? A: Currently, you can obtain the source from other versions of REBOL, although that may not be optimal in many cases. Later this Fall (2002) we will be announcing another product to help answer this question. But, that's all we can say right now. Q: Can I create stand alone executables with it? A: No. For that you need to purchase REBOL/Encap that includes /Base. All developers who have purchased Encap within the last 6 months will receive a free upgrade, including several new tools and modules. Q: Does REBOL/Base have any other changes? A: Other changes are related to boot memory usage. In addition, the STATS function now accurately reports REBOL memory in use, and MOLD now has a /FLAT refinement that removes indentation (handy for smaller messaging and encapsulation). Q: Why does it boot with a version of 2.6.0? A: To keep existing scripts that check the version number from stopping. Q: Where can I download REBOL/Base? A: If you agree to abide by the /Core license, you can download the /Base Alpha version from http://www.reboltech.com/downloads/ If you do not agree, then do not download it. Q: Where do I report bugs? A: http://www.rebol.com/feedback.html - please make a note that you are using REBOL/Base. Submit any other questions to http://www.rebol.com/feedback.html. ### -- To unsubscribe from this list, please send an email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] with "unsubscribe" in the subject, without the quotes.
