CompuServe Thread

#Scala EXs ??

9 messages in this thread
#40172From: CRAIG ZWIENERMar 26, 1994 12:17 PM
To Scala gurus Could someone give me input on the best VCR to use with Scala inside an interactive kiosk? An updated list of Scala EXs, would be appreciated, also. If anyone is currently designing their own cabinet and would like to share design information, I would like to hear from you, too. Craig ——-> via autopilot czwiener@services.dese.state.mo.us
#40181From: Mark D. ManesMar 26, 1994 6:28 PM
Craig, Though I am not a part of SCALA let me answer your question with a question. Why do you want to put a VCR in a kiosk? How would that work in a way that is acceptable to the kiosk user? Why not wait for the CD32 EX that was shwon at NAB and control a CD32 to play back video? I would not put a VCR in a kiosk. -mark= Otto Pilot Engaged..
#40195From: CRAIG ZWIENERMar 27, 1994 11:14 AM
Mark, >Though I am not part of Scala< If I remember right, you have the MM300 upgrade and can handle any questions I throw at you :-). The CD32 configuration in a kiosk is on the list of priorities. However, in developing an airport kiosk and selling ads to 100 potential advertisers,I would be testing the "waters". I was trying for flexibility. I do plan to initiate an FMV CD32 as soon as it becomes prudent. My urgency for a kiosk is that the competition is closing in. I need to be operational within 30 days. Do you think CD32 EX will be ready, soon? What is your preference in touch sreens? (Carroll Touch or ?) Thanks, Craig ——-> via autopilot czwiener@services.dese.state.mo.us
#40215From: John ChangMar 28, 1994 11:06 AM
Craig, Glad to hear that you are working on a kiosk application using our software. As to your request on the available VCR EX modules available, we do sell the "VCR EX Pak" which contains drivers for the Panasonic AG-5700, AG-7330, AG-7150, AG-7350 and Sony U-Matic decks with an RS-232 serial interface. The suggested retail price is $149.00. My only concern with using a VCR in a kiosk application is that most high-grade tapes last approximately 100 passes before it becomes unusable. Depending on the length of the program, that may last approximately 5 days before a tape replacement and head cleaning is required. I strongly suggest looking into using a laserdisc player instead of a VCR for this type of application. As to your development of the kiosk furniture, please consider getting UL approval. If you do not and a fire occurs that originates from the kiosk, you are liable for damages. Any Amiga compatible touch-screen system is acceptable. Warmest Regards, John Chang Technical Support Manager Scala, Inc.
#40238From: CRAIG ZWIENERMar 29, 1994 1:39 AM
John, Thanks on the UL approval tip on the kiosk design. I guess I will forget about a vcr and spend the $$ on LaserVision or CD32. BTW, a big corporation just purchased Scala for inter company communications. It is a satellite plant of one of those big names that look good on a Scala press release. Call Rick @ Data Graphix 417-882- 1899 for details, he sold them the package. Craig ——-> via autopilot czwiener@services.dese.state.mo.us
#40266From: James R. OllickMar 29, 1994 10:50 PM
Craig, Daniel Wolf 70250,626 has a laser disk recorder for sale cheep. Jim R. Ollick Using AP from Bergenfield, NJ
#40300From: John ChangMar 31, 1994 10:31 AM
Craig, Thank you for the Scala lead. Good luck on the kiosk application. Warmest Regards, John Chang Technical Support Manager Scala, Inc.
#40330From: Mark D. ManesApr 2, 1994 11:33 PM
Craig, Why not consider a laser disk then? Price right? Of course that is what your competition is probably going to use since most will not be able to get away with dinky Windows based videos. I just don't really see how a VCR would work with enough speed to be flexible enough for a kiosk. It would seem kludgy to me. However, John Chang may well have a different experience to pass on to you. We've used the microtouch touch screen and it seems to work ok. I know that SCALA showed the CD32 EX at NAB so hopefully it would not be a long time before its release. The real question of course is who will do the MPEG video work and at what cost? -mark= Otto Pilot Engaged..
#40214From: John ChangMar 28, 1994 10:13 AM
Mark, Craig may not have known about the CDTV/CD32 EX module and cable. We only got it the other day! Warmest Regards, John Chang Technical Support Manager Scala, Inc.