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From: info-mac@utcsrgv.UUCP (info-mac)
Newsgroups: ont.micro.mac
Subject: Re: flame about color Macs...
Message-ID: <4299@utcsrgv.UUCP>
Date: Wed, 16-May-84 09:30:14 EDT
Article-I.D.: utcsrgv.4299
Posted: Wed May 16 09:30:14 1984
Date-Received: Wed, 16-May-84 10:00:44 EDT
Sender: peterr@utcsrgv.UUCP
Organization: CSRG, University of Toronto
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Date: Tue, 15 May 84 08:05 PDT
From: uw-beaver!Piersol.pasa@XEROX.ARPA
Subject: Re: flame about color Macs...
In-Reply-To: <8405130619.AA15785@ihnp4.ATT.UUCP>
To: ihnp4!utzoo!henry@UCB-VAX.ARPA
Cc: info-mac@SUMEX-AIM.ARPA

I agree with some of Henry Spencer's points in his message, but think
some further points about color need to be made.

The usefulness of color in a machine relates directly to the complexity
of the information being displayed.  For relatively simple information,
like text or simple graphics, monochrome is fine, and indeed has
advantages.  For more complex information, such as VLSI, or high quality
graphics displaying complex information, color is highly desirable.  It
is not at all clear to me that color is 'a fad' of limited usefulness
generally.  I think you'll find color a significant advantage in most
programs if used sparingly.  Highlighting errors, key words, commands,
etc. are all valid and useful applications for color.  If high quality
color can be obtained, it should be.

The range of color needed for such high quality applications is has as
yet not been produced in what I'd call a personal machine.  You can
expect to spend at least $15k for a system with all the requisite bit
planes, local intelligence, resolution monitor, etc., and that doesn't
include the main processor.  If you want such a system, don't expect it
an a machine that sells for under $5k for a while.

Since we have not seen good color on personal machines yet, resolution
and clarity are the next items of importance.  I'm glad Apple provided
us with a superior black and white display package, rather than what
would very likely be a mediocre if not poor color display package.  The
technology simply isn't around to do this at a reasonable price for a
personal machine.  However, when such machines arrive, we can look for a
new first love besides Mac.

Kurt