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Disc to the Future Part II Programmer's Reference (Wayzata Technology)(6013)(1992).bin
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5/19/89Developer Conference Questions and Answers
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SYSTEM OVERVIEW part I
---------------
Why is Apple talking about System 7.0?
--------------------------------------------------
Apple is discussing with developers the core technologies under development for
inclusion with the next major Macintosh System Software release, System 7.0.
Apple's goal in talking about System 7.0 is to shorten the amount of time
necessary to bring a new generation of powerful application software to
Macintosh users.
Why is Apple telling the Press?
--------------------------------------------------
Apple is informing the press to explain what we're working on in our labs, why
we've chosen the paths that we have and how these technologies will affect
users and developers.
What is Apple's message to users?
--------------------------------------------------
System 7.0 will extend the user's reach through an expanded set of capabilities
that utilize the same consistent, intuitive techniques that users already know.
What's in System 7.0?
--------------------------------------------------
Although the complete feature set of System 7.0 will not be announced until
later this year, the following projects will be a part of the release:
Virtual Memory/32-Bit Addressing
IAC Architecture
Outline fonts
New Print Architecture
Layout Manager
Database Access Manager
Finder 7.0
In addition, System 7.0 will integrate 32-Bit QuickDraw (introduced in April)
and the Communications Toolbox (shipping Q3).
Apple is also discussing with developers other projects currently under
development:
Sound Manager Enhancements
File System Enhancements
International Text Support
Installer 3.0
The complete feature set of System 7.0 will be announced later this year.
When will System 7.0 be made available to customers?
--------------------------------------------------
Apple will announce customer availability later this year.
What Macintosh computers will be able to run System 7.0?
--------------------------------------------------
System 7.0 is being designed to run on all Macintosh Plus, SE, SE/30, II, IIcx
and IIx computers.
System 7.0 will require two megabytes of RAM.
68030-equipped Macintosh computers and Macintosh II computers with PMMU will
have the additional benefit of Virtual Memory.
Apple says that eventually all Macintosh computers will run System 7.0. Does
that mean that all Macintosh computers will eventually be shipped with two
megabytes of RAM?
--------------------------------------------------
Not necessarily. Apple is exploring various configurations of RAM, ROM,
processor and hard disk that will support System 7.0.
What does that mean?
--------------------------------------------------
The total amount of memory that a Macintosh uses for system software is a
combination of RAM and ROM. In general, when more software is put into ROM, a
Macintosh requires less RAM. In addition, for Macintosh computers with PMMUs,
the hard disk can be used to extend RAM with virtual memory. These
technologies provide for many alternative configurations in the future.
Is Apple announcing System 7.0?
--------------------------------------------------
No. Apple is making a directional statement to third-party developers about
new technologies that will be included in a future version of Macintosh System
Software.
What are Apple's plans for System 7.0?
--------------------------------------------------
Apple will move the entire Macintosh product line to System 7.0. During this
transition, Apple will offer both the System 6.0 series and System 7.0 CPU
configurations.
How many current applications will be compatible with System 7.0?
--------------------------------------------------
Application software that conforms to the Inside Macintosh guidelines will be
compatible with System 7.0. As System 7.0 is still in development, it is
impossible to determine which applications will be 100% compatible. When
System 7.0 ships, Apple plans to make a compatibility report publicly
available.
What should customers do to prepare for System 7.0?
--------------------------------------------------
There is nothing that users need to do now. In making new purchase decisions,
customers should buy the Macintosh configuration that suits their current
needs. Users and businesses that need to make long range decisions now may
want to purchases machines with two megabytes or more of RAM today.
Why will System 7.0 need two megabytes of RAM?
--------------------------------------------------
The new features of System 7.0 will require more memory than is available in a
one megabyte system to operate effectively.
Where is the multitasking Macintosh Operating System?
--------------------------------------------------
The Macintosh operating system has been multitasking since the introduction of
MultiFinder. Many applications take full advantage of MultiFinder by allowing
concurrent printing, recalculating spreadsheets, sorting databases, and
downloading files.
Isn't Apple now putting Macintosh users through an OS/2 experience?
--------------------------------------------------
Absolutely not. System 7.0 is an extension of today's Macintosh System
Software. Apple is designing System 7.0 to provide for upwardly compatible
applications which is a fundamental part of the Macintosh System Software
strategy. System 7.0 will allow developers to create even more innovative
Macintosh software and hardware that extends the power of today's Macintosh.
Can a Macintosh II-class machine running Apple's Virtual Memory operate with 1
megabyte of physical RAM?
--------------------------------------------------
While this configuration may work, Apple will recommend 2 megabytes of RAM when
running System 7.0.
I own a Macintosh II computer with one megabyte of RAM and I want to upgrade to
System 7.0. Should I buy more RAM or an MMU?
--------------------------------------------------
RAM. The least expensive way to upgrade a one megabyte Macintosh II to System
7.0 is to add another megabyte of RAM.
Does Apple have plans to add new capabilities to the System 6.0 series?
--------------------------------------------------
No. Users of the System 6.0 series can continue to use their systems. The
upgrade path for System 6.0 series users is System 7.0 with more RAM.
Why not?
--------------------------------------------------
Apple believes in providing consistency across our products for our users and
developers. This consistency can only be achieved by focusing on one system
software platform. That platform is System 7.0.
Does this mean that all users need to upgrade to System 7.0?
--------------------------------------------------
No, users can continue to use the System 6.0 series and their current
applications. System 7.0 and new applications software will provide many new
capabilities that many users will want. System 7.0 offers users an opportunity
to add more functionality to the Macintosh computers they own today.
--------------------------------
Core Technologies for System 7.0
--------------------------------
VIRTUAL MEMORY
What is Virtual Memory?
--------------------------------------------------
Virtual Memory (VM) extends the user's available memory by transparently
treating the hard disk as additional RAM.
Why is Virtual Memory important?
--------------------------------------------------
Virtual Memory allows users to run more applications at once and work with
larger amounts of data than they can today.
Will Virtual Memory be compatible with application software?
--------------------------------------------------
Yes. Virtual Memory is backward compatible with all applications that adhere
to Inside Macintosh.
Which Macintosh computers can use Virtual Memory?
--------------------------------------------------
Macintosh IIx, IIcx, and SE/30 are ready to use Virtual Memoryno additional
hardware is needed. Macintosh II can take advantage of Virtual Memory by
adding the 68851 PMMU coprocessor onto the Macintosh II logic board (a socket
is provided on the board for this chip). This coprocessor chip is on the Apple
price list. This is the same co-processor needed to run A/UX, Apple's version
of AT&T's UNIX operating system.
Apple's 68000-based systemsMacintosh Plus and Macintosh SEcannot take advantage
of the Virtual Memory capability of System 7.0. Macintosh SE owners have the
option of the Macintosh SE/30 logic board upgrade to gain Virtual Memory
capabilities.
Why can't Macintosh Plus and Macintosh SE use Virtual Memory?
--------------------------------------------------
The 68000 microprocessor used in the Macintosh Plus and Macintosh SE does not
have the memory management hardware necessary for Virtual Memory. This memory
management capability is one of the primary differences between the 68000 and
its successor chips.
32-BIT ADDRESSING
What is 32-Bit Addressing?
--------------------------------------------------
32-Bit Addressing enables the Macintosh to use up to 4 gigabytes of memory.
The basic software and hardware of the Macintosh already supports the 32-Bit
Addressing model. However, Macintosh currently is limited to 8 megabytes of
memory because 32-Bit Addressing is not yet fully implemented throughout the
system.
Why is 32-Bit Addressing important?
--------------------------------------------------
Macintosh users want more memory for a variety of uses. Some just want to run
more applications under MultiFinder. Some want to use graphics software that
creates multimegabyte images. Some want to use enormous databases. And some
want to manipulate even larger word processing documents. More memory has
endless uses.
So does the transition to 32-Bit Addressing mean lots of application
incompatibility?
--------------------------------------------------
No. Applications that conform with 32-Bit Addressing guidelines ("32-Bit
Clean") already run on all Macintosh computers. These applications will
immediately benefit from the enlarged memory space with System 7.0.
Applications that are not 32-Bit Clean will continue to run under System 7.0
but will not have the benefit of additional memory space. Apple has been
working with its third-party developers to make sure that all application
software abides by 32-Bit Cleanliness rules.
What Exactly is "32-Bit Clean"?
--------------------------------------------------
Applications that follow Apple's memory manager guidelines in Inside Macintosh
are 32-Bit Clean. 32-Bit Clean applications are both upwards and downwards
compatible with 24-Bit and 32-Bit Addressing modes. These guidelines are
repeated in technical note #212 "The Joy of Being 32-Bit Clean."
What if my existing software is not 32-Bit Clean?
--------------------------------------------------
Applications that are not 32-Bit Clean continue to run with System 7.0.
Will 32-Bit Addressing become standard?
--------------------------------------------------
Yes. At some point in the future, Apple will make 32-Bit Addressing standard
on new Macintosh computers.
Since much of system software is in ROM, will I need a new ROM to get the
benefits of 32-Bit Addressing?
--------------------------------------------------
Apple is researching ways of offering 32-Bit Addressing to all Macintosh II
computers. While an optional ROM upgrade is not out of the question, other
alternatives are being considered. Apple will keep developers and customers
updated on issues relating to 32-Bit Addressing.
What does 32-Bit Addressing mean for Macintosh Plus and Macintosh SE?
--------------------------------------------------
These Macintosh computers cannot get the benefit of 32-Bit Addressing. 32-Bit
Clean and non-32-Bit Clean applications will continue to run on these
computers. Only Macintosh computers using the 68020 or 68030 microprocessor
can have the benefit of 32-Bit Addressing.
INTERAPPLICATION COMMUNICATION ARCHITECTURE
What is Interapplication Communication Architecture?
--------------------------------------------------
Interapplication Communication Architecture (IAC) is a framework for
applications to exchange commands and data, both locally and over networks.
IAC consists of several pieces:
Program-To-Program Communications (PPC)a low-level tool for exchanging data
between two programs, either locally or across networks. PPC provides a
unified, consistent programming interface for both local and network
communication. PPC will be able to deliver messages either Immediate (IPC) or
Store-and-Forward.
Event Manager PPCa high-level tool for applications to exchange commands and
data. Event Manager PPC presents a simple, natural interface to applications.
AppleEvents are an Apple-defined protocol of standard messages that
Applications can send to other applications. Examples include "Open Document,"
"Print," "MoveWindow."
Live Copy/Paste and Link ManagerLive Copy/Paste gives you live links between
documents. For example, the user can link a spreadsheet table into a word
processing document; whenever the spreadsheet changes, the word processing
document is automatically updated.
Clipboard Copy/Pastea current capability of Macintosh and is also part of IAC.
Macintosh applications universally support copy and paste between applications
via the Clipboard.
What does Live Copy/Paste offer the user?
--------------------------------------------------
As applications begin to offer Live Copy/Paste, users will be able to make
applications work better together and avoid repetitive copy and paste. Users
can build up libraries of commonly used objectslike graphics or paragraphs of
textand link them into their documents. When you need to change the data, you
change every occurrence of that data. And, because Live Copy/Paste works with
AppleShare file servers, you can easily share data with another person. Imagine
linking in the sales numbers from each of your sales people's spreadsheets.
Your master spreadsheet is always up-to-date.
Does Live Copy/Paste work with existing applications?
--------------------------------------------------
No. Applications must be revised to take advantage of Live Copy/Paste. Apple
is simplifying the task by providing extensive user interface guidelines and
toolbox support for Live Copy/Paste. Apple's outline fonts
What are outline fonts?
--------------------------------------------------
Outline fonts are mathematical descriptions of characters. Sharp text at any
size on any device can be generated from outline fonts. Today, the fonts in
your Macintosh are called "bitmap" fonts. These fonts are small collections of
pixels that create the text you see on the screen. With bitmap fonts the
System File can become huge and still not have all the fonts in all the sizes
you might want.
The new Apple fonts are outline fonts.
What are the benefits of outline fonts?
--------------------------------------------------
Outline fonts provide sharp text at any size on any device. This means
beautiful documents on the screen for multimedia presentations as well as on
the page from any printer. Outline fonts also simplify the customer experience
by creating a single font standard for the Macintosh computer.
This is confusing. I thought my Macintosh "Style" menu already had a function
for outline fonts.
It does, but that is something different. The "Outline" option in the Style
menu actually traces the character to give it an outlined appearance. It looks
like this. It is simply a graphics trick. However, the new Apple fonts are
called outline fonts because they are based on mathematical outlines, not
bitmaps. These outline fonts are also called spline fonts or scalable fonts.
If you really want to get carried away, keep in mind that you will be able to
"Outline" the outline fonts!
Do Macintosh owners need to buy PostScript fonts anymore?
--------------------------------------------------
Macintosh owners may want to buy PostScript fonts that are not yet available in
Apple's format. It is important to remember that today's PostScript fonts,
like all of the existing Macintosh font technology, will still operate normally
in the future. For example, PostScript fonts and bitmaps will remain popular
on 1MB Macintosh computers like the Plus and SE. PostScript fonts may also
remain useful in multivendor environments. We expect some vendors will
continue to offer their typefaces in PostScript format and add the Apple format
version of that typeface. However, the Apple font format will be all most
Macintosh owners really need.
How many fonts will be available in the Apple format?
--------------------------------------------------
Hundreds of fonts will be available within a few months of first shipment, and
thousands soon after. It is impossible to answer this question precisely.
There are two main reasons for this. First, since Apple's format was designed
to be very flexible, many vendors will be able to automate the conversion of
their existing library to the Apple format. Second, the open format is
available to anyone, so even small players will be able to create new
typefaces. Apple does not have to get involved in licensing or support. Since
there are hundreds of specialized fonts now available in bitmap formats, these
are all candidates for conversion to outline.
Will Apple be providing fonts in the new format? If so, how many?
--------------------------------------------------
Apple does not intend to be in the font business, so we will offer a core set
of fonts and then stop. This promotes a healthy aftermarket for type vendors.
The Apple core set will consist roughly of the fonts Apple ships today with
Macintosh computers and LaserWriter printers, plus a small number of additions.
The final list will be announced later.
Who really needs this technology? After all, LaserWriter NT and NTX users
already enjoy scalable type. Why put it into the Macintosh?
--------------------------------------------------
Today, the benefits of outline fonts are available from Apple only through
these two LaserWriter models. Now, outline fonts will enhance the screen
display, the ImageWriter II, the AppleFax Modem, the ImageWriter LQ and the
LaserWriter IISC. A wide range of third-party output devices will also use
these fonts for best possible text quality.
Does this mean that future Apple printers will not support PostScript?
--------------------------------------------------
No. Keep in mind that the existing Apple printer line consists of both
"intelligent" and "passive" printers. Where we put the processing power is
generally a price/performance decision. Consequently, future Apple printers
will support the new Apple font format in a variety of ways. Apple is
committed to maintaining excellent system support for PostScript printing.
However, our policy is to not comment specifically on hardware products under
development.
Does this mean that Apple won't be using Display PostScript?
--------------------------------------------------
Yes. But this should come as no surprise. Apple announced over a year ago
that we will be improving the internal software of the Macintosh instead of
adopting an outside language. This removes limits from what Apple can do in
software while maintaining excellent backward compatibility. This new font
format, like 32-Bit QuickDraw, demonstrates both of these benefits. At the
same time, we are committed to maintaining an excellent interface to PostScript
printers.
NEW PRINT ARCHITECTURE
What is New Print Architecture?
--------------------------------------------------
The New Print Architecture is designed to extend the printing capabilities of
Macintosh.
What are the advantages of the the New Print Architecture?
--------------------------------------------------
There are three advantages to the New Print Architecture:
1. New features. Background printing on all printers, increased performance,
support for outline fonts, color/gray scale support, elimination of document
reformatting, and an enhanced user interface will extend the lead the Macintosh
has in printing.
2. A wide variety of new printing devices. Where in the past it has taken
years to support new printers on the Macintosh, with the New Print Architecture
it takes only a few months. We expect to have more well integrated printers
available on Macintosh than any other computer.
3. Compatible expansion for the future. Expandability is designed into the
new print architecture. With the New Print Architecture we expect to be able
to transparently offer new features to both the user and application.
How does the New Print Architecture compare to printing in Presentation
Manager?
--------------------------------------------------
So far there are very few drivers for Presentation Manager. With Presentation
Manager, Microsoft is writing application independent drivers for the first
time. Apple has utilized four years of experience to develop a new print
architecture that utilizes outline fonts, the Line Layout Manger, 32-Bit
QuickDraw, and other system utilities. With the New Print Architecture the
Macintosh will remain the benchmark printing platform.
Is it true that all of the current printer drivers will be incompatible with
System 7.0?
--------------------------------------------------
Yes. Apple's New Print Architecture is designed to make the creation of
printer drivers easy.
When System 7.0 ships, Apple will have new printer drivers to support all Apple
output devices.
Who will write replacement drivers for these devices?
--------------------------------------------------
Apple will work closely with third-party developers to help in the creation of
new printer drivers built around Apple's New Print Architecture.
LINE LAYOUT MANAGER
What is the Layout Manager?
--------------------------------------------------
The Layout Manager allows applications to display typographical quality text.
What are the benefits of using the Layout Manager?
--------------------------------------------------
Using the Layout Manager, applications can display sophisticated formats like
kerning, ligatures and justification for any text. For international text
systems, like Japanese or Arabic, the Layout Manager has additional support for
composed characters.
DATABASE ACCESS MANAGER
What is the Database Access Manager?
--------------------------------------------------
The Database Access Manager is the Macintosh System interface that allows
applications to transparently connect to remote databases on host computers.
What benefits does this Database Access Manager give to developers?
--------------------------------------------------
The main benefit is that applications like spreadsheets, desktop publishing,
or graphics programs can now directly access host data in a standard way
regardless of the host computer and database.
How does Apple's approach compare to IBM's OS/2 Extended Edition or Microsoft's
SQL Server products?
--------------------------------------------------
The Apple Data Access Manager provides standard access to remote host
databases. This is where the bulk of computerized data is found. In contrast,
the IBM product is only a local database that resides on a single user's
machine. The Microsoft product is a local area network database requiring a
dedicated computer. Both the IBM and Microsoft database extensions are
optional. The Data Access Manager is a standard part of Macintosh System
Software.
What databases does the Database Access Manager support ?
--------------------------------------------------
ORACLE, Sybase, Ingres, Informix, RDB, Vax-RMS and IBM systems. Many other
databases will be supported in the future.
FINDER 7.0
What's new about Finder 7.0?
--------------------------------------------------
Finder 7.0 improves the Macintosh user interface in three important ways.
First, Finder 7.0 will integrate system functions that previously had different
user interfaces into one consistent, intuitive interface. Second, we are
building in new powerful features like a quick-find facility, document
stationery templates, aliases that will allow users to organize their files in
multiple ways, and others. Third, Finder 7.0 will be extensible providing for
the integration of new capabilities like electronic mail and backup in the
future.
Will desk accessories continue to run with Finder 7.0?
--------------------------------------------------
Yes they will. In addition, because applications can now be installed in the
menu like desk accessories, developers will be able to provide users with
better desk accessories. These new desk accessories will have all the power of
applications with the instant-access features of the original desk accessories.
What's the relationship of Finder to MultiFinder?
--------------------------------------------------
MultiFinder is a set of operating system capabilities that give the Macintosh
the capability to run multiple applications concurrently (multitasking). The
Finder is the system utility software that gives Macintosh users control over
their desktop. The Finder is what you use whenever you launch (double-click)
an application, drag a file onto your hard disk, move folders between windows,
etc.
How does the Finder compare to Presentation Manager or Windows?
--------------------------------------------------
Neither PM or Windows has a Finder. With these systems, the user sees a
graphic display but does not get the intuitive, direct control over system
functions that the Macintosh provides. For example, in the Macintosh, a user
can copy a file from one disk to another by merely dragging it. In Windows or
Presentation Manager, file copy requires the user to type cryptic file names
into a dialog box and then the system does the copy. This forces users to
remember file names exactly and to remember arcane name formatting
restrictions.
I have a large number of files on high-capacity hard disks. Will the Finder
7.0 do anything to help manage files better?
--------------------------------------------------
Finder 7.0 takes advantage of a new system feature called the Desktop Manager
which can handle many more files more quickly. In addition, the quick-find
facility will allow users to access files more quickly by automatically finding
the folder a file is stored in, opening it on the desktop, and highlighting the
file that the user seeks.