Rex Forum

jay · Member

Hi everyone,

I was thinking, the other day (well, actually it was yesterday), why I'm not really using my REX anymore. I'm now using the old slips of paper in my pockets and wallet, which is definitely easier to use when having to remind something, but not as efficient when it comes to planning. This reminded me of an old Apple Newton (one of the first PDAs), which is also in my desk drawer somewhere. It allowed you to write on the screen, rub it out, use gestures etc. Which is cool. It also had a contacts app, and functionality for custom apps. Which is cool as well. However, it is old and thus large, nay HUGE. (Search the internet for Apple Newton and you'll find more info and pictures).

The REX is small, and is certainly capable of doing whatever the Newton could (and the old Palms as well) in terms of CPU power etc. But it is terrible to use it as a daily PDA, because of its lack of centralized data input and display. You can also not copy-paste, and not input many lines of text efficiently. However, as said, the CPU power and memory is certainly there.

Now, I have quite some experience with programming PC operating systems. I know what it takes, I know IA-32 (i.e. 80386+) assembly language - but not Z88, I know efficient algorithms, basic hardware things etc. And I know that it is at least possible to create another OS for the REX (yes, I have done my homework). Why does nobody stand up and get it right? I mean, we would be free to choose our memory layout, and UI (user interface), and, well... almost anything.

So I want to pass this message out to the Great REX Programmers out there. Maybe we should group up, and create something nice. Something that would change our lives. Or maybe just keep us busy. Whatever. Very Happy

Thanks for your time,
hoping for many reactions & discussion,

Jay.

vrillusions · Site Admin

Hmm, interesting idea, and I could see how it is possible to create your OS since all you have to do is get it into a firmware format that can be imported. I have no idea if there's enough support out there for such a project though, I for one just don't have the time to do it. All I could really do to help is I could set up a subversion repository (like cvs, but better) since I've been playing with that lately. But you could also just go to sourceforge and create a project there.

btw, some of that stuff you mentioned can be done. For example the copy and past works, you just select some text and then click on the edit menu and you can cut or copy it. although I think it's just in that memo field, I haven't tried to copy it in one and paste it into another. I also kinda like the keyboard instead of having to learn some new language. but those are all my opinions Smile

danboarder · Member

New OS, or how about using Palm OS?

I know my old PalmPilot only had 2 MB of Ram and had less resolution (160x160 as I recall) than the Rex. I doubt if it was any faster.

So my idea is this -- how hard would it be to make an emulation layer that would run an older Palm OS on top of the Rex OS? The Rex has enough screen space to emulate the image area, as well as the Grafitti area, and the buttons are there for the Datebook, Todo, etc...

What do you think? It's been a while since I did any asm or even C++ but hey, maybe there is someone out there who might be able... Smile

If it is possible, this would be the smallest palm capable device that I know of (since the Fossil watch never happened)... I know there are Palm emulators out there for PocketPC, etc, perhaps one of those projects could be 'recompiled' for the Z80/Rex... any ideas??

Peace,
Dan

jay · Member

Myeah, that would be interesting, but...
1. I think it would still be a lot of work. Doing maths is somewhat the same for a lot of processors, but the problem is the I/O, and memory management. Maybe it is possible, but then again...
2. It would be really slow. You would have to emulate every instruction, which makes it at least 10 times slower than the real thing. For a pc, this is not a problem of course, but the REX itself is slow enough, especially its memory.

However, you proved my point: the REX actually IS capable of doing what the old Palms can do. The only problem now seems to be that people don't really have the time to program for the REX (me too) - can someone prove me wrong? It's a pity.

Cheers,
Jay.

blue_quartz · Member