wdr@wang.com (William Ricker) (04/10/91)
I just received a new packet of info from Transfinite Systems.
They've just announced release 2 of GoldBrick(tm) model 1, which
supports the fabled *extended mode* of the power-glove. ( Older units
are field upgradable; upgrades are available -- snap in a new
processor/memory unit, I gather.) The new model includes the tech
reference manual on GoldBrick, which is also available for older
units. Price:$245.
They've also released GoldBrick model 2: The Nugget, a stripped
down version that handles the Mattel PowerGlove and other Nintendo
controllers, but doesn't provide a second Apple Desktop Bus port or
gamedeck cable; and doesn't include the technical references which are
standard with release 2 model 1. Price: $169
Both interface only to Apple MacII, Mac SE and later, and Apple
IIGS, using the AppleDesktopBus. I've heard rumors of RS232
interfaces, but no dates mentioned. (The model 1 will also interface
back to a game-deck, if you want to have your Mac help you play your
nintendo or something.) They apparently support a Mac standard for 3-D
input devices as well as translating 3D motion into 2D plus commands and
special program interfaces.
Transfinite will sell PowerGloves package, but their literature
honestly points out you can probably find a better deal from a
discount toy store; they make them "available here as a convenience".
They'll charge $90, but suggest you can find them for $50 if you shop
around (which availability I just saw confirmed in sci.virtual_worlds).
They also sell the other controllers they support: Borderbund's
Uforce, which has 8 IR reflectivity sensors & 2 buttons w/ joystick
accessory; Bondwell QuickShot Python-2 joystick; and Nintendo PowerPad
(12 sensor floor-mat, like electronic Twister!). They also stock
nintendo controller cables, if you want to build your own super-
joystick-emulators; Apple Desktop Bus splitter cables, if you need
more ADB ports; and extender cables for controllers.
I suspect hobbyists can find better prices on the off-the-shelf
components, but it's probably easier for corporations to order a full
kit from a single source than to shop around.
Address: Transfinite Systems Company, Inc; POBox N., MIT Branch Post Office,
Cambridge MA 02139-0903; +1(617)969-9570; D2002@Applelink.Apple.COM.
-- bill
DISCLAIMER: I have no interest in this company, but I do know the founders
socially and would like to see this kind of technology suceed. I haven't
tried their products, but my Nephew did and declared the original GoldBrick.1
powerglove interface "Awesome".
NOTICE: Most product names above are claimed as trademarks by someone.
--
/s/ Bill Ricker wdr@wang.com
"The Freedom of the Press belongs to those who own one."
*** Warning: This account is not authorized to express opinions. ***