unknown@ucscb.UCSC.EDU (The Unknown User) (02/20/90)
Well, I told people that requested information from me regarding the Floptical (R) drive that it was not a done deal in getting them for group rates. In fact, I hopefully implied that it was probably more likely that they wouldn't let us do it. Alas, today I got the letter from Insite saying that they wouldn't go along with the deal. At least, in my opinion, they were nicer about it than Brier was. I will type in the letter at the end of this message in case anyone's interested in what they said. I have actually heard more about the cartridge drives recently [based on Syquest drives], and I believe that they will work properly with the 'built in' SCSI drivers included with GS/OS (to the people on other newsgroups: that's the system software for the Apple IIGS). I thank all of those who expressed interest in getting these drives at a 'group rate'.. Since I have no need for all of your names and mail addresses, I will delete them sometime soon when I get around to it. __The text of the letter follows:__ I do not think it would be a good idea for Insite to sell to you and your 99 friends on a direct basis. The reason is that you have raised a number of questions (ie Power Supply issue) and assumptions (software drivers) that will present legitimate problems for your [sic -tuu] in the integration of our FLOPTICAL (R) drive into your computer. Because Insite does not specialize in dealing with these types of issues (specifically software drivers) it would be detrimental to both parties to try to establish a business relationship based on a foundation that we are not experienced in. Insite appreciates your interest in our FLOPTICAL drives and we will fully understand if you elect to not wait for our distribution network to become established (December 1990) and purchase an alternate product. Best of luck. __ end of letter__ Brier, the other company making a similar product, seemed to be much more rude in their letter. Not rude really, that's too strong.. Brier's letter just sort of hit me as "We already said we won't deal with the public, so just get off our back".. hmm.. even though I -KNOW- I have software drivers that will work [or at the very least I know people who will MAKE them work] they still won't sell to us. And making/buying a power supply wouldn't be that difficult. Once again, thanks for the interest, and I hope I didn't get too many people's hopes up falsely. Both companies say their products are either out (as far as my memory goes, Brier said Dec 1989) or will be out this year in the case of Insite... I think in the $800 range will be what the final product will cost, so I guess it's in the league of cargridge drives.... -- No floptical drives. Both companies said no. GET A CARTRIDGE drive instead to spite them. unknown@ucscb.ucsc.edu APPLE II FOREVER APL24VR GS tips? Mail me. unknown%darkside.com@ames.arpa Please use the former address for regular use.