CompuServe Thread

Most heartily agreed. The only sane path for Dell would have been to market it as a video platform, and put development efforts in that direction. As a matter of fact, the same holds true for ESCOM. At least as regards U.S. sales. That there are a couple of word processors, and a Desk Top Publishing program available for it, are bonuses. To try to break into the standard business market at this late date, would be a complete waste of time, and money. At this point it matters not that the Amiga _could_ be a more legant solution. There is too much time and money invested in the dominant platform and software system. If I change from Compaq to Dell, not much of my investment is lost. All my software will run, and my data is easily transported. If I change from Compaq to Amiga, I have to import the data, and buy all new software, and then teach my people how to use it. (This is the same problem the Mac faces.) When IBM hit the streets, the microcomputer revolution was just gathering steam. While there were a fair number of CP/M machines out there, the territory was just beginning to open. Additionaly, there was a huge leap in capability between the CP/M machine, and the IBM. also, folks like WordStar were selling IBM versions, making it even easier to switch. No such parallel is available for the Amiga. The machine is not a factor of ability above the competition for non specialised work. The software bridge isn't there. For U.S. sales the 4000 or whatever comes out, has to be aimed at video/multimedia. (and no more insanely stupid mistakes like not checking to see if the number one high end peripheral ie. the Toaster, will fit in the case of the new model.) Even then this battle is steeply uphill. It looks like the docs have managed to restore a weak pulse in the old gal. It remains to be seen, as to whether or not she'll walk again.