[comp.sys.apple2] ROM 3 vs ROM 1

ghost@bucsf.BU.EDU (Jay Adelson) (04/13/90)

The issue which has been brought to my attention is whether or not
the ROM 1 machine is a smart thing to keep rather than a ROM 3 because
a ROM 3 is incompatible with certain "illegal tool calls."

In my opinion, software development should always be compatible with the
latest revision of the computer hardware, AS WELL AS compatible with the
previous versions.  Keeping this in mind, it seems to me that other 
software developers would agree.

Assuming this is true, what possible arguement can there be against upgrading
to a ROM 3?  Essentially, it is the same computer.  I have heard that certain
software titles (i.e. Prosel) has trouble on the Rom 3 machine. If this is
the case, I'm sure they will be re-designed for those who buy new GS machines.

Another problem some have with upgrading to a Rom 3 seems to be the *hardware
compatibility...for example, I have a RamKeeper and a GSRAM 1.5 meg in my 
Rom 1 machine.  I discovered that in order for the ramkeeper and gsram
to function properly in a Rom 3 machine, the ramkeeper needs to be 
version 1.6 eprom or later, and it must use another modified chip as well.
The GSRAM, if it is revision A or E, needs a single chip revision, or if
it is revision C or D, it needs two.  On occasion, the gsram simply won't
work even with the revisions, or won't work properly, and in that case
you must send in your card to be replaced for $60-$70.  For the chip
upgrades, AE is nice enough to send you upgrades for $19 a set.

Hardware incompatibility may be part of the problem people are having
with the ROM 3 machine...that is, perhaps there are some people out there
who think there is a software incompatibility problem when in fact the 
source lies in the expansion peripherals.  Who knows..I'm no tech whiz, but
it is going to take a lot to convince me Apple revised their computer with
many incompatibility problems.

Your input is appreciated!  I'm just about to invest in a rom 3...and I'm
still teetering back and forth as to the intelligence of the move.

(And in the meantime, where's ROM 4, and could I possibly sell a ROM 1 when
 it is released? HA!)

  -Jay

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| Jay Adelson           | Phantasmagoric Designs | "If you think things are   |
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