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Conference hydra::amiga_v1

Title:AMIGA NOTES
Notice:Join us in the *NEW* conference - HYDRA::AMIGA_V2
Moderator:HYDRA::MOORE
Created:Sat Apr 26 1986
Last Modified:Wed Feb 05 1992
Last Successful Update:Fri Jun 06 1997
Number of topics:5378
Total number of notes:38326

4740.0. "DIGITAL DISCOVERS AMIGA" by SALSA::DUPRE (God is real (unless declared INTEGER)) Tue May 14 1991 16:23

Return-Path: salsa::doheny::doheny::mrgate::"capoa1::monroe.chuck"
Date: Wed, 24 Apr 91 18:16:28 -0600
From: salsa::doheny::doheny::mrgate::"capoa1::monroe.chuck"
To: salsa::cambron, canyon::porter, canyon::walters
Subject: COMMODORE/AMIGA MULTIMEDIA CAPABILITIES: COMPETITIVE INFO

Date:	23-Apr-1991
Posted-date: 24-Apr-1991
Precedence: 1
Subject: Commodore Amiga/Amiga Vision 
To:	See Below



VMSmail To information: @CTSALL
Sender's personal name: 23-Apr-1991 1413

SUMMARY

On March 27, Commodore sponsored a seminar devoted to the Commodore Amiga
Vision, videographics technology. The Amiga Vision system is a microcomputer
system designed for multimedia purposes. It is the first and only system in its
class to include the right mix of features to become known as "the video
computer". The Amiga system provides users with advanced microprocessing
technology blended and integrated with video-oriented graphics, hardware, and
applications. These Amiga features are standard and do not require intricate
knowledge, expensive additional purchases or tricky technical configurations. 

The Amiga system provides standard graphic features which do not require 
additional "graphics or video cards". The intuitive Graphic User Interface,
(GUI) of the Amiga enables users to begin work without extensive computer
experience. The Amiga Vision Authoring System is a powerful, icon-based tool.
The easy to use, flowchart based user-interface allows even the most in-
experienced user to develop powerful cost effective applications which include:

   o Business Presentations
   o Animated Slide Shows With Audio
   o Interactive Video Applications and Displays
   o Computer based training for business, government and education.





CTS SOLUTIONS

A Commodore Amiga delivery system is a very cost effective and complete 
solution for CTS multimedia customers. Unlike the NuMedia platform, the Amiga 
supports a wide range of graphic, animation, video, text editing, and language 
tools. The Amiga also provides users conversion packages so existing MS DOS
based graphic formats can be incorporated into the Amiga platform. Bridgeboards
are another option which allows an Amiga to run MS DOS or OS/2 compatible
software while concurrently running Amiga tasks. 

The main benefit of the Amiga is that the audio and video chips reside on the 
mother board of the system, therefore eliminating the need to purchase 
additional multimedia hardware components. The Amiga also provides customers
options which include RAM and hard disk expansion capabilities. The customer
can build a system which meets their presentation needs. 

The Amiga Vision authoring system is icon-based and similar to IconAuthor and 
also supports dBASE III files which are necessary for record keeping and 
tracking functionality. Amiga Vision supports a wide range of external
peripherals including touch screens and video disc players. Amiga Vision comes 
with each Amiga system. Customers would not have to purchase development 
licenses for updating and maintaining content. 

If a customer needs a turnstyle solution for standalone kiosk platform, the 
Amiga is more cost effective than IconAuthor or NuMedia. 

The following pages highlight the Amiga Vision features and provide a brief 
description of that feature. 




FEATURES

Video Compatible
- ----------------

Video performance is provided through both a built-in video connector and a 
video compatible signal. This connection delivers Amiga's videographics 
directly into video devices, such as encoder and keyers. The Amiga video 
oriented features include:

o RGB Signal - Output is analog, rather than typical computer digital signal.

o Scan Rate - Horizontal scan rate of 15.75 KHz does not require external scan
              conversion. Typical computers scan rates are often 30-60 KHz.

o Interlace - Two interlace modes are standard, not requiring in-line external
              interlacing, as with other computers.

o Overscan - True Overscan is a built-in hardware feature, supported by soft-
             ware, and is definable in all resolutions. This is not usually a 
             computer feature. Overscan allows displaying graphics in the entire
             visible area of the monitor screen.

o Composite Sync - Simpler and less expensive to interface with video equipment.

o Aspect Ratio - A 3:4 display aspect ratio matches video.
  
o Integrated Video Slot - Facilitates internal installation of video devices
                          and unique video expansion products. Allows analog RGB
                          port to remain available for monitors or other output.

Video Production and Post-Production
- -------------------------------------

Amiga's multimedia capabilities along with NewTek's Video Toaster, allows the 
user to be in charge of their own productions. Beyond graphic applications, the 
Amiga technology brings videographic and video production to the desktop. The 
Amiga can connect up to 32 independent devices: VTR's, digital and analog audio 
decks, optical disc recorders, video switchers, etc. Drive transport control, 
switching between on-line and off-line with an electronic patch bay is also 
available. Interformat control spans the range: mix Hi-Band, 8mm, BetaCam SP, 
MII, 3/4", 3/4" SP, 1" S-VHS, VHS, and D2. SEG and DVE types of transitions 
and effects can also be added. Create digital and processed audio. Amiga can be
used for teleprompting and lighting control. Electronic edit lists, scripts and 
storyboards with integrated color images can also be created.

Amiga Vision also includes Genlocking capabilities. A "genlock" is a special 
device combining NTSC composite signal encoder and overlay keyer. With a gen-
lock and the addition of a time base corrector, Amiga RGB graphics can easily 
be timed and overlayed on incoming live or recorded video sources.

Note: The Video Toaster and a Time Base Corrector ARE NOT included with 
      A Commodore Amiga Vision System.




FEATURES CONTINUED

Multitasking
- ------------

Amiga is a real-time multitasking system. The custom computer chip set, special
system architecture, and operating system software are all designed to support
this sophisticated feature. This means that several different programs may be
active and performing tasks at the same time. Similarly, advanced individual
programs exploit this power to perform multiple functions simultaneously.
Graphics, animation and audio may all be combined, arranged and performed in
one production. Also, several external devices can be controlled for complex
production and extended productivity. This includes audio, video equipment, 
printers, graphic devices, displays, and other peripherals. 

Standard File Format
- --------------------

A standard software file format, IFF, is used by most graphics, animations and 
audio, enabling images, sounds and effects created in specific programs to be 
shared and used or modified within many others. The IFF standard avoids the 
complication of file incompatibility. The Amiga also can convert files from 
other system formats. 

Image Processing
- ----------------

The Amiga system allows the user to scan and digitize existing images. The Amiga
can "grab" frames from live and recorded video sources. Image processing 
software provides features and effects which can improve image quality, change
or correct color, remap palettes, and alter resolutions. Other features include
the ability to define sharpness, contrast and size, solarize, posterize,
pixellate, and convert from 2-D to 3-D and vice versa. (Not Standard)

Character Generation
- --------------------

The Amiga allows the user to choose from hundreds of fonts, including high 
resolution, decorative, multi-colored, extruded and even animated styles. Fonts
can be modified, customized or even created. CG programs provide professional
features such as kerning, antialiasing, specialty screen transitions and 
effects. Amiga Vision also includes international language fonts.

Audio
- -----

The Amiga system has built-in four-voice, two channel digital audio capa-
bilities. Audio can be digitized or synthesized. The Amiga system features
automated speech synthesis which includes "designable" voices. The system will
also support a selection of MIDI interfaces and innovative software. This 
feature enables the user to compose music, scores, and jingles. Sound effects 
and audio processing can also be added to multimedia applications. 




FEATURES CONTINUED

Graphics
- --------

Amiga is one of the most preferred menu driven, icon based graphic systems.
The Amiga displays up to 4,096 colors on the screen at one time. Amiga can 
also be expanded to display and output over 16 million colors. Features 
include numerous work screens, paint programs with animation included, tints, 
blends, and smoothing. Automated perspective modes, detail magnification
and airbrush stenciling are also enhancements. Images are easily recorded to 
video tape but can also be output to printers or displayed in multimedia
presentations. 

3-D Imaging
- -----------

The processing features of Amiga, allow users to produce complex 3-D images, 
using a wide range of techniques. These include wireframe, surface modeling, a 
choice of rendering methods, texture mapping and actual raytracing for photo-
realistic effects. 3-D objects can be edited and manipulated in real time. 
Extensive rendering can be performed in the "background" while the user performs
other system tasks. (Not Standard)

Animation
- ---------

Amiga's custom chips and non segmented memory provide "real-time" animation. 
Single frame recording allows the Amiga to "play" the animation it creates. 
Most systems cannot "play" animations, they must record to tape or film one 
frame at a time before work can be viewed as animations. Animation on the Amiga 
can also be previewed and adjusted for proper movement and customer approvals. 
The Amiga system enables users to easily animate in 2-D or 3-D.





SYSTEM COMPONENTS & COST

Commodore Amiga 2500                      Commodore Amiga  500

CPU............................$3,475     CPU............................$1,041

 Includes:                                 Includes:
           o 3.5 Floppy Drive                         o 3.5 Floppy Drive
           o 5 MB RAM                                 o 1 MB RAM
           o 100 MB Hard Disk                         o 20 MB Hard Disk
           o Mouse                                    o Mouse
           o Keyboard                                 o Keyboard
           o 2 Mouse Ports                            o 2 Mouse Ports
           o Serial & Parallel                        o Serial & Parallel
           o Amiga DOS                                o Appetizer Software
           o Amiga Vision                             o Amiga Basic
           o 25 MHz                                   o Amiga Vision
                                                      o Amiga DOS
                                                      o 16 MHz
          
OPTIONS: All Amiga Systems come standard with Amiga Vision Software.
         System Memory can be expandable - A2058 2-5 MB RAM Card.........$275
         50 MB Hard Drive/Controller - A2091.............................$600

MONITORS.......................$299      MONITORS........................$299

 A1084 - RGB Analog                       A1084 - RGB Analog
         RGBI & Composite Vid. Inp.       RGBI & Composite Vid. Inp.

SPEAKERS.......................$29       SPEAKERS........................$29

 A10                                      A10

 NOTE: An Amiga 500 is the recommended delivery system. Can be configured at the
       same speed as an Amiga 2000, 7.16 MHz with a 50 MB Hard Disk and 5 MB
       RAM. Amiga Systems can be configured so that presentations can be 
       edited or frozen. 




SYSTEM COMPONENTS & COST CONT.

Additional Amiga Software for Multimedia

   o Deluxe Paint III..................................$150

     Excellent graphics package which includes 2D animation capabilities.

   o Imagine...........................................$200

     3D Animation Package

   o Sculpt 3D.........................................$400

     3D Animation Package. 

   o Future Sound/Perfect Sound........................$120

     Digitized Audio Software

   o Frame Grabber.....................................$499

     Digitized Video Software. Capable of grabbing single frame
     at a time. (Live video to Digitized)

   o DigiView..........................................$200

     Digitized Video Software. 15-20 second conversion speed.





NETWORKING

TCP/IP Networking Software/AS225

COMPATIBILITY

   o NFS - TCP/IP software for the Amiga is compatible with all models of the 
     Amiga. Connection to Internet, DDN and other networks supporting TCP/IP
     and UDP/IP protocols. Works with A2065 Ethernet Network Adapters

Network Functions

INTER-USER COMMUNICATIONS

   o VT100 Network Terminal Emulator for remote access. 
   o NFS Client Application support for Amiga client side file services from 
     an NFS server. 
   o Full host table support for symbolic lookup of internal address numbers.

PROTOCOL SUPPORT

   o ARPANET Standard File Transfer Protocol
   o TENEX File Transfer Protocol
   o Trivial File Transfer Protocol
   o Address Resolution Protocol
   o DARPA Internet File Transfer Protocol
   o DARPA Trivial File Transfer Protocol
   o RFC742 Based Multi-Site Fingered Protocol

SOFTWARE UTILITIES

   o File system automounting on system boot-up. 
   o Host Table Lookup File for symbolic ASCII hostname reference of internet 
     address numbers. 
   o Full local support for protection bit modification of NFS volume files and
     subdirectories.

HARDWARE SUPPORT

   o Full support of the Commodore A2065 Ethernet Network Adapter. 
   o Minimum system memory requirement: 1MB RAM
   o Minimum system storage requirement: 1 Floppy Drive
   
TCP/IP COST

   o A2065 - Amiga Ethernet.................................$262

     Network Adapter for 2000 and 3000 series

   o A S 225 - TCP/IP - NFS Network Software................$153





OTHER NETWORKING PACKAGES

   o TSSNET.................................................$ Not Available

     Supports DECnet. Local/Worldwide Networks.

   o GMXBase................................................$ Not Available

     Supports full color X Windows
     




TOUCH SCREEN MONITORS

Commodore systems support a wide variety of monitors which can be retrofitted
which provides touch screen capability. MICROTOUCH is the recommended touch
screen software. 

Some featured monitors include:

COMMODORE 1950 - 14" High Resolution Multiscan Monitor

   o 14" 0.31 Dot Pitch Screen
   o Compatible with all Commodore Professional Series III, Select Edition,
     and Amiga Personal Computers
   o Inputs Analog RGB and Digital RGBI
   o Multiscan capability for MDA, Hercules Graphics, CGA, EGA, VGA,
     Super VGA as well as Amiga video modes
   o 9.5" Horizontal x 7.1" Vertical display area

   Monitor 14"................................................$550
   Retrofit Kit (14").........................................$625
   Retrofit Kit (19").........................................$732

NEC DM-2000PMT - 20" Datasmart Monitor with Microtouch Touch Screen

   o Highest quality touch screen available
   o Capacitive type touch Screen using seriel interface
   o Chemically bonded to face of CRT
   o Non-glare glass improves contrast
   o Transmits 85% of available light
   o Developers software available from Microtouch
   o NEC Demo software included
   o 5 year warranty from Microtouch
   o Shipment within 45 days from receipt of order
   o Resolution of 1024 x 1024 touch points
  
   Monitor....................................................$3,000





DISPLAY ENHANCER BOARD

Commodore Amiga 2320

The Display Enhancer Board converts 15KHz interlaced video into 31KHz non-
interlaced video for display on multi-scanning monitors removing interlace 
flicker. 

Features Include:

   o De-Interlacing and Scan-Doubling Video Display
   o Provides Non-Interlaced Video for Display on Multiscan Monitors
   o Supports both NTSC and PAL Formats in full Overscan Modes
   o Supports new Enhanced Chip Set (ECS) modes
   o Transparent to Amiga Software and fully supports the Amiga's 4096
     color palette
   o Video Mode Switch allows Pass Through of Standard 15KHz Video to
     Multi-Scanning Monitors
   o Can be used with many External Genlocks (NTSC and PAL)
   o Does not interfere with normal Output from built-in RGB Port

T.RTitleUserPersonal
Name
DateLines
4740.1ULTRA::KINDELBill Kindel @ LTN1Tue May 14 1991 16:355
    Re .0                 -< DIGITAL DISCOVERS AMIGA >-
    
    Well, IT'S ABOUT TIME!  Except for some technical nits, it's a good
    writeup.  I'd like to know what the other systems mentioned in the
    article cost, similarly equipped.
4740.2BAGELS::BRANNONDave BrannonTue May 14 1991 21:0011
    all that because CBM came out with AmigaVision and put on a seminar?
    
    Maybe there is something to the idea of marketing a product.... :-)
    
    Even if they get a couple technical points wrong.  And didn't even
    mention the 3000 or the CDTV.  But they have to leave something
    for the next article :-)
    
    Dave
    p.s. does this mean CBM has lost it's "toy computer" image?  Not
    one mention of the Amiga as a killer game system.
4740.3what about U*ixSALEM::LEIMBERGERWed May 15 1991 06:503
    They were grossly off base on prices ! Still it touched most bases, but
    I don't remember *nix being mentioned
    						bill
4740.4Commodore _is_ marketing to this nicheKALI::PLOUFFAhhh... cider!Wed May 15 1991 10:557
    Scanning the Usenet Amiga newsgroups, there are now lots of articles
    saying that Commodore is running ads in education-oriented magazines
    pitching the Amiga line as multimedia machines.  Also, the video press
    is taking Amiga very seriously as a production tool for both
    professional and amateur setups.
    
    Wes
4740.5CBM is a well-known customer, too...SMURF::COOLIDGEBayard, ULTRIX CSSE 381-0503 ZKO3Thu May 16 1991 13:2911
    
    ...and at least a couple of their employees are rather vocal
    ULTRIX customers on comp.dec.sys and comp.dec.ultrix (or what-
    ever they're called this month - I've stopped reading them for
    lack of time).
    
    Be interesting to see if CBM does a port of OSF to their systems!
    
    Bayard Coolidge
    CSSE - Unix-Based Software & Systems
    
4740.6PATHWORKS for AMIGA !AMIGA::RIESOS/2 = Half an Operating SystemThu May 16 1991 13:4310
On an even more interesting note, customers have been asking for PATHWORKS for
the Amiga. (PATHWORKS is the new name for DECs PCSA product, I work in this
group). We just had some folks out at DECUS in Atlanta and had a number of
customers ask for PATHWORKS AMIGA, both client and server. Most of these were
from Europe, but it was asked for by US customers as well. This is the second
DECUS where customers have asked for such a product. Unfortunatly, I doubt
anything will ever come of it, but we can hope. I have volunteered to work
on it as an AD effort :-).

Frank
4740.7YES!!!BOMBE::MOOREAmiga: Where &#039;multimedia&#039; REALLY beganThu May 16 1991 17:263
    Many times I've wished I had an Amiga on my desk at work, and PATHWORKS
    connectivity would be at the top of my list of things to work on.  I
    bet it would be a relatively easy job too!
4740.8I don't see OSF,or Pathworks comingSALEM::LEIMBERGERFri May 17 1991 06:5416
    In that CBM uses Open Look for their flavor of U*IX I doulbt that they
    will go to OSF. They have been getting rave reviews in every mag I have 
    read. Regarding Pathworks: I have a DecStation 325 on my desk with the
    card installes but don't know what to do with it. Card came off dial.
    	A 3000, or 2500 running x windows would have a home on my desk if
    I could have my choice. Until(if ever) the heavy hitters in the
    messydos world port to the Amiga we will never get the notice we should
    here at work. It is sad that so many people opt for a system because of
    a handfull of programs. Aside from maybe 4 applications, and the need
    for special verticle applications I see no use for messydos systems.
    Of course many I know own a messydos system because the have these 4
    applications free(stole from work). I think Messydos is gods punishment
    for these people. Really, almost every user I meet looking to buy a
    clone system mentions the desire to run these applicatoins he has
    already. How many of us can afford a full blown AutoCad for example ?
    								bill
4740.9KALI::PLOUFFAhhh... cider!Fri May 17 1991 11:0812
    Despite the demonstrated, proven performance of Amiga running X
    Windows/Ethernet/DECnet, any of you who hope to see a Digital
    DECnet-Amiga product must convince PCSG management that DECnet-Amiga or
    Pathworks for Amiga, whatever you call it, is low risk and high return. 
    I invite you to look back a couple of years in PC oriented notesfiles
    about the battle to get this company to support DECnet-DOS on more than
    a small handful of PC brands.
    
    Remember, the obstacles are business, not technical.
    
    Wes
    who's been there
4740.10BAGELS::BRANNONDave BrannonFri May 17 1991 11:4215
    
    I agree.  We aren't going to be able to do that, real customer demands
    are what is needed, such as that asking for it at DECUS.  
    
    Pathworks for MAC exists due to that.
    
    3rd party DECnet for the Amiga already exists, just as it did for the
    Mac.  The missing piece is customer demand for DEC to make it part of
    the Pathworks.  CBM needs to sell a lot more amigas to the Fortune 500
    companies for that to happen.  Or beat up on the NAS folks to get the
    3rd party DECnet included under the NAS program to integrate your desktop
    devices, including your Amigas.
    
    Dave
    
4740.11CBM?STAR::GUINEAUbut what was the question?Fri May 17 1991 12:494
Maybe sending a letter to someone at CBM stating that their interest
may provoke NAS to do the port, which would obviously help Amiga sales.

john
4740.12These days we're VERY slow to move in new directions.ULTRA::BURGESSMad Man across the waterFri May 17 1991 13:0915
	I talked to CBM some months ago.  They have customers with 
exactly the needs that have just been mentioned.  They would be  VERY
interested in a relationship/partnership somewhat along the lines of 
what we have with Apple/Mac  - -  and would be quite happy to provide 
whatever equipment we need to help the development along.  I didn't 
have any luck convincing my management to get involved, they muttered 
something about marketing would have to show a need  - -  made me 
wonder what market need there was for the wheel.

	Maybe someone should open up the conversation again in light of 
the interest at DECUS ??   

	Reg

4740.13AMIGA::RIESOS/2 = Half an Operating SystemFri May 17 1991 18:585
I just forwarded .-1 to my management about PATHWORKS for AMIGA. Who knows,
if we can get CBM to gives us some stuff for evaluation?

Frank
PCSG (PATHWORKS) server group
4740.14any lost sales situations?NAC::BRANNONvalue addedFri May 17 1991 20:157
    I'm glad to hear customers at DECUS are finally asking for a PATHWORKS
    for Amiga product.  I forwarded the reply about DECUS interest to my
    management.  Unfortunately, I suspect its going to take documented cases
    of lost sales due to no Amiga support before anything will change.

    Dennis
    PATHWORKS for DOS client group
4740.15yeah!STAR::GUINEAUbut what was the question?Sun May 19 1991 12:4823
>                <<< Note 4740.14 by NAC::BRANNON "value added" >>>
>                         -< any lost sales situations? >-
> 
>     I'm glad to hear customers at DECUS are finally asking for a PATHWORKS
>     for Amiga product.  I forwarded the reply about DECUS interest to my
>     management.  Unfortunately, I suspect its going to take documented cases
>     of lost sales due to no Amiga support before anything will change.
> 
>     Dennis
>     PATHWORKS for DOS client group
> 

I was one of those DECUS folks. When I stopped at the booth, the lady actually
called back to Massachusetts to ask about Amiga support (answer obvious).

There were a couple "SIG" meetings for Amiga at DECUS, and Pathworks was one
of the hot topics. Actually, Pathworks in general got lots of discussion at
DECUS. Seems it's doing well with customers.

Pathworks support would put Amiga in with the "socially accepted" group of 
systems for DEC connectivity :-)

john
4740.16BAGELS::BRANNONDave BrannonMon May 20 1991 19:147
    hmmm... maybe John has figured out a way :-)  After all, she did call
    and ask...
    
    Is there a formal Amiga SIG in DECUS?  If so, maybe that could be the
    focus for trying to convince DEC to add support.
    
    Dave
4740.17ELWOOD::PETERSTue May 21 1991 09:5217
    
    re .16
    
    	Yes there is a formal group in DECUS for the AMIGA. It is not a
    SIG ( yet ? ). It is part of the Personal Computer SIG. The PCSIG
    includes MSDOS, MAC and now AMIGA subgroups.
    
    	The AMIGA group has meet the last three DECUSes. This DECUS there
    was even an AMIGA presentation. There was an Amiga 3000 in the
    PC booth running TSS DECNET and X-windows. It was part of the
    network and had windows open to VS3100 in the PC area.
    
    	I have a news letter from the group at home. I'll try to bring
    it in and enter anouth note with more information.
    
    		Steve P.
    
4740.18BAGELS::BRANNONDave BrannonWed May 29 1991 17:2016
    
    an excerpt from a Digital ad in the Wall Street Journal
    (nice to see that somebody still uses the term "pc" to refer to
     personal computer)  "all your different PCs"....
    
    ...... lots deleted.....
   But that's not all. PATHWORKS lets you easily tie together all your
 different PCs - including Macintosh and DOS PCs. And it lets you access
 servers on the other side of the world as easily as those on the other side of
 the hall.
   Best of all, you can use PATHWORKS with the networks you already have.
 Thanks to Network Application Support (NAS), which stands for Digital's unique
 way of turning every system into an open system.
   ..... even more deleted .....
    
    Dave
4740.19STAR::GUINEAUbut what was the question?Wed May 29 1991 17:459
> way of turning every system into an open system.
>   ..... even more deleted .....
 

Gee Dave, did you delete the part about where they specifically requested 
Amiga support in PATHWORKS?

john
4740.20BAGELS::BRANNONDave BrannonThu May 30 1991 18:468
    
    No, just wanted to point out it looks like they are doing advertising 
    generic enough to make it easy to add "other" PCs.
    
    After all, they did say "every" system.  Just need a few million more
    Amigas in the Fortune 500 companies to generate enough demand :-)
    
    Dave
4740.21Multimedia Demo, Anyone?ULTRA::KINDELBill Kindel @ LTN1Tue Jun 11 1991 12:4469
    I recently received an announcement from Software Usability Engineering
    of a seminar and demonstration that included both Multimedia and GUI as
    central topics.  In looking through the agenda, I was struck by the
    fact that they'll be demonstrating on Macintosh and NeXT systems, but
    had overlooked the "obvious multimedia platform".  I sent mail to SUE
    pointing this out and suggesting that we (the denizens of BOMBE::AMIGA)
    might be able to help out.
    
    Here's the reply, which I found to be quite supportive.  I'm neither a
    multimedia giant or into serious home video.  Are there any takers to
    help out either next week or sometime in the future?
    
    Thanks in advance,
    Bill
    
>   From:   CLT::PIQUE::FREAN        11-JUN-1991 10:08:18.41
>   To:     CLT::ULTRA::KINDEL
>   CC:     CLT::CFSCTC::SCHWARTZ,TSE,CLT::WILSON,FREAN
>   Subj:   Amiga and Multimedia
>
>   Bill,
>
>   As the member of the Software usability Engineering group who is
>   responsible for tracking multimedia and other interesting technologies,
>   I wanted to respond to your thoughtful comments about the Amiga and how
>   important it is in this field.
>   
>   I wholeheartedly agree that the Amiga would be worthy of study and 
>   demonstration.  I also read Byte magazine, and noted some issues ago the
>   extensive article on the Video Toaster, which, among other things,
>   pointed to the high hidden cost of specialised peripherals required
>   to set up an effective Amiga + Video Toaster studio.
>   
>   Alas, cost is the principal reason we do not have a full-fledged,
>   fully-equipped, multiple platform competitive systems lab.  Another
>   reason is that our group is engaged in many activities around ways
>   to involve the end user in design, and competitive information
>   transfer (learning and showing what other companies are doing) is
>   just one of the areas we work in.  We have to restrict our budget
>   and our focus.
>   
>   One of my activites is to sponsor presentations on competitive systems
>   as part of the ZK Technical Seminar Series.  In that role, I would
>   enthusiastically invite you to put on a presentation of the Amiga
>   with AmigaVision and/or the VideoToaster.  I am in the process of
>   putting together the schedule for the next few months, and would
>   love to have a session on the Amiga. If you would care to provide
>   an Amiga and other hardware and software and the Amiga expertise,
>   perhaps together with other Amiga owners, I could help by liaising
>   with the TSS administrator, picking a date, reserving the Babbage
>   auditorium, and introducing the session.  Please let me know.
    
    Is there an exhibitionist in the house? 8^)

>   All our TSS Competitive Info Series sessions in the past have been
>   well attended - and we have wanted to present something about the
>   Amiga, but have not been able to.
>   
>   Incidentally, my father (who lives in England) has an Amiga and so
>   I have had limited first-hand, and a lot of third-hand, experience
>   with it!  He is a dedicated fan ... 

    I replied that the Amiga is addictive. 8^)
    
>   I look forward to hearing from you, and I'm sorry you won't be able
>   to come to the SUE Open House.
>   
>   Regards,
>   Charlie Frean
4740.22Anything would be better than nothingBAHTAT::BAHTAT::HILTONHow&#039;s it going royal ugly dudes?Wed Jun 12 1991 05:458
    Even if no-one can attend are there any good 'Amiga' video tapes which
    could be sent? Sounds like an opportunity not to miss. Now if someone
    pays my air fare from the UK.....
    
    
    
    
    Greg
4740.23ELWOOD::PETERSWed Jun 12 1991 10:4011
    
    re .21
    
    	When is this great event. I'm willing to help, but also very short
    on time.
    
    	Maybe a few of us could combine our efforts. I'd be willing to
    supply hardware and some time.
    
    		Steve P.
    
4740.24V.T. Demo tape available.XSNAKE::WILSONTLLead Trumpet (Read that...LEED!)Wed Jun 12 1991 14:196
    I just received a video tape from Amigaworld as part of my Tech Journal
    Order.  This tape is produced by Newtek and demos the Video Toaster as
    well as showing some productions that were created on the VT and the
    Amiga.  Would that help?
    
    Tonyf
4740.25a few rhetorical questions...ULTRA::BURGESSMad Man across the waterTue Jan 28 1992 12:0020
re  replies around .9  to .18,  pathworks, etc.


	Isn't CBM  it'SELF  one of OUR customers ?

	I'm only guessing;  but I have to wonder what these guys
(Finkle, et al) are doing on a net node named  "cbmvax" ?  (-:
	
	Wouldn't  THEY  like to have pathworks ?   

Gee, if only they could provide a little more market/customer  "pull"   (-:

I suppose they are a national account, or something significant.
I wonder if the sales organization that supports them ever checks into
this conference... . .  .  .   .   .

	R


4740.26We know about CBM as a customerKALVIN::PLOUFFOwns that third brand computerTue Jan 28 1992 16:016
    _Digital Today_, the "tabloid" in-house paper for DEC field people, ran
    a story last spring or summer on the Commodore account.  Seems we
    convinced them to buy VAXes running VMS over the objection of the
    technical people (read: Unix-heads).  Not too promising...
    
    Wes