14.002 5. The Computer Wars Chronicles: ISSUE 67/ Revolution: Another Way
Description
This article is from the Apple II Csa2 FAQ, by Jeff Hurlburt with numerous contributions by others.
14.002 5. The Computer Wars Chronicles: ISSUE 67/ Revolution: Another Way
Anticipating that, whether by design or accident, Apple may be
angling for a Mac-only strategy, several respected II series
supporters have joined to combat the shift and develop
alternatives. In our conversation, Mensch identified such
"Working Group" participants as himself and other WDC personnel,
Tom Weishaar, Mike Westerfield, and representatives from Applied
Engineering and Comlog.
While his "preferred remedy" is to persuade Big Green
stockholders to force II support, Mensch admits that the group is
already exploring non-Apple options. Among these, the simplest
calls for third-party development of a speed-up/graphics
add-on. For an outlay "well below $500" you would retain access
to current IIgs wares and enjoy the benefits of a new, higher
performance standard. More dramatic cures call for Apple to 'spin
off' an independent II products company or even sign away II
rights to one or more established manufacturers.
When asked if a cloner (e.g. Laser) might launch its own super
IIgs, Mensch steadfastly refused any comment. From Laser, Grant
Dalke's response was a somewhat obtuse, carefully worded
observation that, if such a product appeared to be feasible,
Laser would announce it when it was ready. (Hmmmmm) "So, are you
saying that no IIgs-like product is being developed?" Answer: "No
comment". Well, the last time I got answers like these to
questions like these was back in the summer of '85 when trying to
pin down Bill Mensch about a 65816-based "IIx". IF Jim Hart's
rumored 7.8MHz, 640 x 400 resolution, ... "IIgs+" actually
exists, a reasonable guess is that it's sitting in Laser's labs.
Continue to:
My Books
