laird@bgsuvax.UUCP (John Laird) (05/09/89)
I want to use a micro to run an electronic camera and to manage the resulting
images. I want the following capabilities:
1) IEEE-488 interface to talk to the camera controller;
2) interface to ethernet;
3) the ablility to display 8-bit color images (512x512 pixels) on a
separate dumb monitor;
4) the ability to write 1/4" cartridge tapes for transport to a Sun
Workstation.
I have been blissfully ignorant of the world of micros, so I am trying to
become educated enough to make sensible decisions in choosing hardware (and
software) for this system. I would appreciate advice on the following:
a) Do I want a Mac (IIx) or an IBM (model?)? I am unfamiliar with both.
I care about the hardware and software interfaces, and also the
programming environment (for C or Fortran).
b) Specific hardware vendors and/or products for these four capabilities.
My understanding so far is that 1) the IEEE-488 interface is
straightforward; I need a board (and driver); 2) again, a board is
needed; with a Mac, an external connection from Appletalk is possible, but
not preferred (due to slower speed). 3) a board and a monitor are both
needed; 640x480 pixels would be acceptable resolution. 4) on a Mac a tape
drive could be hung on the SCSI port; eventual compatibility of the tapes
with a Sun is important.
c) What software is necessary to handle the display on a separate monitor?
Does this software exist (especially in the public domain)?
d) What software is necessary to write Sun-compatible cartridge tapes? Does
this software exist?
Thanks in advance for your advice.
John B. Laird Internet: laird@andy.bgsu.edu
Department of Physics and Astronomy BITNET: LAIRD@BGSUOPIE
Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, OH 43403
419-372-7244