CompuServe Messages

I can't speak for 2nd party developers other than end users. In most large to medium market TV stations at least one person, usually more loves to tackle interface projects like this, as long as they have access to interface signals at both ends (machine to machine, or in this case program hooks to machine.). Most vtr's basic remote connections consist of a connection paralleling the front panel buttons (logically if not physically) and connections paralleling the front panel lamps. All the hardware that is usually needed to interface to external controllers (such as a parallel port) is a handfull of opto-couplers. A quick example of a vtr controller that one of my fellow workers did about seven years ago; He designed, wire wrapped and programmed a Z80 based controller that hooked into 4 Sony BVU-200's, provided the operator variable speed search cueing facilities, once the tape was at the head of the desired segment, one button was pushed, it backed the machine up 5 seconds and passed starting control to the operator in the control room. This device was in service for the 5 years we used BVU-200's to air news stories from. So I do think the people are out there that could put the message port to use. I also understand the timing constraints that Aegis is under trying to get Videoscape out. I'll bet that once it is released you'll hear even more suggestions for enhancements, so perhaps this could wait for Videoscape 2.0? At least that would give more time for the idea to be fully thought out and a standard (generic) vtr interface developed. As an owner of a competetor's animation program it would be nice if they could use the same user controller interface if they ever release a version 3.0 of theirs. The IFF statdard has done wonders for graphics and sound interchangeability in my estimation, it would be nice to have a standard for controlling some real world events. regards, Mike Schulte