[net.micro.mac] Roms, rumors, and CD's

dillon@ucbvax.ARPA (Matt Dillon) (08/17/85)

I've been hearing (from reliable sources, as always) that the long awaited
Rom upgrades will allow a Laser Disk reading device to interface through one
of the ports (presumably the RS422).  I also hear that Apple plans to have
a special interface, etc., and only connect to their own laser disk reader
(the manufacturer name Cannon was mentioned at this point).

It seems to me that, if this were indeed the case, it wouldn't be the
best of moves for Apple.  Already in existance and in the marketplace
are thousands of Laser Disk readers (the big 12" ones for TV's) and tens
of thousands of Compact Disk readers.  Furthermore, a large number of the
compact disk readers/players already have an interface on them--subcode.
I'm not that familiar with all the details involved in the data transfer,
etc. (I'm not even sure how in h*!! the laser can track a disk that's off
center), but if this port already exists (about 50 to 65% of the CD players
I've seen have subcode out), why not use it as a standard?  Thus people
who already own CD's would be encouraged to purchae Macs for thier 
encyclopedias etc., (How about a Map of the world?--an atlas like no other
atlas that would interface with something like Filevision).  

By making "their own" standard, they would ensure a lesser market share.
By using the existing subcode protocalls (which, again, I'm not horribly
familiar with), Apple would help bring about standardization.  A company
need only release one disk in one form, and, were it text or a bitmap,
everyone could use it on any computer that connected to subcode.

Again, let me say I'm not horribly familiar with everything involved with
the technology here; but as the Mac is the most "comsumer compatible" computer
out there, why not use the existing consumer electronic gear out there,
if possible.  It'll mean more profits for Apple, standardization (IN THIS
INDUSTRY?? YOU MUST BE KIDDING), and that I won't have to shell out more
$$ for Apple's (Cannon's?) disk player.

Apple???


Peter Korn
cc-20%ucbcory@Berkeley

None of the above opinions/ideas/expressions/mannerisms/etc. are those of
whoever I might supposedly be representing (except possibly myself, of course).
And even then, there's some room for doubt!