CompuServe Messages

Well, I think it is beneficial to first identify the real strengths of our beloved computer: – tight and speedy multitasking 32 bit OS kernel. – programmable command prompt and built-in scripting language (AREXX). – support for modern object manipulation and services such as long file names, etc. – tighlty integrated custom multi-media chips (NTSC video out, animation and audio hardware, speedy and auto-configurable 32 bit bus). – globally supported client multi-media data file format: IFF. – extensive, programmable and live-switching video modes serviced at the OS level. Now for the bad news: – Appalling name brand recognition. – Archaic user interface. The Workbench is ridiculous by modern standards: uneven object support, lack of ordinary peripheral services such as print spooler and other system events, unfriendly system configuration utilities… – Unacceptable STANDARD screen refresh rates. This one really kills the machine. I find it embarrassing to show a static Amiga screen next to that of an ordinary 486 or Pentium PC with 2MB VRAM PCI graphics accelerator. – Lack of OS memory protection. Any one app can bring the whole thing down to its knees. Windows has the same problem, although the Amiga is in a worse position, since there are proportionately many more misbehaved apps. The sad thing here, is that it's almost a given to guru frequently. Don't argue this point. Please. Let's be honest, OK? – Unfair but real lack of hardware and software vendor support. Say, I really like that new printer, dear manufacturer. Do you have an Amiga driver for it? The number one thing to work on, before releasing anything new, is on PERCEPTION. That starts with high refresh rate screens and a smoothed-out Workbench. The LCD (Lowest Common Denominator) must be set high from the get go. The reason the Amiga got a foot in the door in the first place was because it offered more and in some ways much better for the money at the time (up to 1992). Although it could possibly succeed at a premium price level, this would have to be accompanied by flawless customer solutions in niche areas such as video or kiosks, for instance. I don't believe Escom has the expertise or the resources to compete with the likes of Silicon Graphics at this point. So that leaves more features and capabilities for less money. And I mean F-A-S-T. The window of last opportunity is closing right now, if not already so!