Changes

FutureOS

19,490 bytes added, 8 February
/* File system */
== Introduction ==
'''FutureOS''' is an revolutionary operating system for the Amstrad [[CPC6128|CPC6128]], [[Plus|6128Plus6128plus]], [[C-ONE|C-One]] and [[CPC TREX|T-Rex1CPC TREX]]. The version for the CPCPlus 6128plus supports some of its special features. The CPC464, CPC664 and [[KC Compact]] can run FutureOS with a [http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/open-source-diy-512kb-ram-expansion/msg163566/#msg163566 revaldinho's] 512 KB RAM expansion only.FutureOS is being developed by [[TFM|TFM]] of [[FutureSoft|FutureSoft]] in [[Z80|Z80]] assembler. Its The development of FutureOS and its applications continues from 1989 up to now (20082023). Therefore FutureOS allows was already sold during the user to control commercial era of the computer with with an icon section CPC6128 and a file section; it can deal with files up to 4 MB big in one piece6128plus computers. It has a dynamic memory management systemLatest OS release took place at October 19th, which divides RAM into 16 KB blocks2023. Further it supports a variety of hardware expansions. FutureOS is delivered together with basic utilities in the same ROMsPlanned next release: 2025.
== Requirements ==On the Amstrad CPC many efforts to build a GUI were made, few to build an OS. In other cases they were just extensions to realize some kind of a WIMP environment but weren't true operating systems with their own kernel, memory-management, BIOS, BDOS and so on. Therefore, the CPC's own OS (in combination with AmsDOS) and CP/M (Plus) were the only two known OSes for the series during the early commercial era. But the question remained: since most CPCs have 128 KB (most C64 only have 64 KB), a screen-resolution of 640x200 (C64 only has 320x200) and some more advantages, why not have something better? So the FutureOS-Project was born and FutureOS system 0.1 was released during the late commercial era of the CPC6128. With the release of the 6128plus a special version of the OS was released for this computer.
The core of FutureOS allows the OS needs 64 KB ROMuser to control the computer with a broad variety of HIDs. Compatible products are EPROM-cardsThe surface provides an icon section, the [[Inicron ROMa file section and a status section. The OS can deal with files up 16 MB (24 bit file-length) and it can load/save files up to 4 MB in one piece. It has a dynamic memory management system, which divides RAMusually into 16 KB blocks -Box|ROM-RAM-BOX]], [[SYMBiFACE II|SYMBiFACE II]], [[Ramcard 128|RAMcard]], Jareks [[CPC.Flash|Flash-ROM]] or similar productsin smaller pieces. If you don't own such Further it supports a card, you can take a look at '''broad variety of hardware expansions. FutureOS''' by using is delivered together with a compatible CPC Emulator ([[WinCPC|WinCPC]], [[CaPriCe|Caprice]], [[WinApe|WinApe]], [[!CPCemu|CPCEmu]])variety of utilities in the same four ROMs. Additional expansion ROMs can be added.
The core of the OS itself is executed directly in (Pseudo-)ROM or [[Dobbertin EPROM 224|EPROM]] (in four 16 KB blocks). It jumps between the ROMs FutureOS can be used with the help of a little common area. Therefore the numbers of the four 16 KB ROMs are hardcodedGerman, English, French and Spanish language interfaces.
The OS itself has roughly 70.000 lines of code, the source code is about 808 KB in size. === How to start FutureOS ===The RSX command '''|OS''' will start FutureOS. You get directly into the Turbo Desk, there you can tag a drive and start an application f.e. (see Desktop). If you want to use FutureOS temporary then use the RSX command '''|FDESK''', this will save your first 48 KB RAM and you can leave FutureOS later and return to previous work. == Requirements ==It runs on 'off the shelf' hardware when using the Cartridge for the 6128 Plus.The core of the OS needs 64 KB ROM. On the CPC6128 it needs a ROM expansion or similar. Compatible products are EPROM-cards, the [[X-MEM]], [[MegaFlash]], [[Inicron ROM-RAM-Box|ROM-RAM-BOX]], [[SYMBiFACE II|SYMBiFACE II]], [[Ramcard 128|RAMcard]], Jareks [[CPC.Flash|Flash-ROM]], [[MegaROM]] or similar products. If you don't own such a card, you can take a look at '''FutureOS''' by using a compatible CPC Emulator ([[JavaCPC|JavaCPC]], [[WinCPC|WinCPC]], [[CaPriCe|Caprice]], [[WinApe|WinApe]], [[!CPCemu|CPCEmu]], [[Arnold]], [[Sugarbox]]) or others.  The core of the OS itself is executed directly in (Flash-)ROM or [[Dobbertin EPROM 224|EPROM]] (in four 16 KB blocks). The support of the M4 SD card needs a fifth ROM of 16 KB though. The OS allows jumps between the ROMs with the help of a little common area. Therefore the numbers of the four (five) 16 KB ROMs are hardcoded and the jumps are very quick. But never mind, adapting ROM number is done by the installation software anyway. Applications like ROManager do also set all that ROM numbers automatically right. Further parts of the OS can be loaded from media on demand if needed. Examples are the multitasking manager [[Caruh]] and the UI/menu framework CBM. '''FutureOS''' uses 2 KB (&B800...&BFFF) of the first 64 KB; the rest of the remaining RAM is available to applications. Additional RAM can be reserved for DIRectory buffering. Furthermore the OS uses memory management(up to 4 MB), file-handling and specialized Low/Mid/High-level routines and functions to access and manage the hardware.
'''FutureOS''' can be launched from AmsDOS with the RSX commands |OS or |FDESK. If you use |FDESK you can leave '''FutureOS''' and get back to BASIC where you have stopped before - the first 48 KB (not the screen) have been preserved.
'''FutureOS''' only runs well on a [[CPC6128|CPC6128]] or 6128plus 6128 Plus (not CPC464 or 664, except you have a RAM expansion with full RAM mode &C3 support like the one from Revaldhino), because of their support for RAM configuration C3 (essential for the mouse pointer). FutureOS is not compatible with [[Firmware]] or [[CP/M|CP/M]] programs, but supports their data structure. It needs a [[Class]] 2 CPC, it runs best with a [[Class]] 4 CPC or higher.
== User Interface =='''FutureOS''' does not require the native CPC-OS at all (neither BASIC, DOS, nor firmware). The only exception can be the character set of the lower ROM. If you replace the lower ROM by the [[CPC FutureOS lower ROM]] for example, then FutureOS will start directly. In this case you can use your own set of characters, just put it between &3800 and &3FFF in the lower ROM.
The user interface (UI) There is a Cartridge version of '''FutureOS presents the user with three fixed sections: an icon section (upper half of screen), a file-name display and selection section (lower half of screen) and a message line (bottom). The user can browse through directories of discs and hard-disc partitions. A cursor arrow is used to select devices, functions or files; this cursor arrow can be controlled with a joystick, mouse, trackball, light-pen or the Grafpad II''' which supports some 6128plus features.
Applications can call the UI as == Limitations ==For CPCs with 128 KB there may be some limitations. The command |FDESK uses 48 KB E-RAM, a subroutine (wallpaper uses 16 KB E-RAM. So in this case for example the OK icon can E-RAM would be used to return to calling applicationup and this will inhibit some OS functionality (f.e. copy data). The icons are fixed, so A RAM expansion is strongly suggested. In case the layout remains stable throughout its OS requires more RAM you can always switch the wallpaper off to gain 16 KB and usethe |OS command to start FutureOS.
Files can be viewed on-screen (scroll up and down) or printed. File headers can also be viewed. When typing a text file it is possible to set the number of columns and lines of the window the text is displayed in. == Graphic User Interface ==
== [[ImageThe Graphic User Interface (GUI) of FutureOS presents the user with three sections:CBM.png|thumb|right]]CBM ==* the icon section (upper half of screen)* the file window (lower half of screen) * and the message base (the two bottom lines of the screen)
There The GUI appears directly after starting FutureOS, but can also be used by applications. The user can browse through directories of discs and hard-disc partitions. The text window provides space to display one directory page, this is another surface 64 different file names (equals one full directory of a Data, System or IBM formatted disc). Using the keys SHIFT and CONTROL you can browse page by page through the directories of devices.  A graphical mouse pointer is used to select devices, functions or files; this pointer can be controlled with nearly all of the pointer based HID devices (joystick, mouse, trackball, light-pen, Grafpad II, analogue joystick etc.) available for the CPC.  In addition functions provided by the GUI can be activated using hotkeys. Type "d" for example to read and display the directory of a drive. Applications can call the GUI of the OS; and the user returns to the application using the OK icon. The icons are fixed, therefore the layout remains stable throughout its use and on every CPC using FutureOS.  In SPARtan mode the GUI only displays icons which can be used directly. Unused icons will be hidden. In this mode the GUI is more easy to use and you see a bigger part of the wallpaper (if loaded). === Desktop functions === Watch pictures or movies. View text-files on-screen (scroll up and down) or print them on your printer. When viewing a picture you can adjust MODE and screen format using the cursor keys. When typing a text file it is possible to set the number of columns and lines of the window the text is displayed in. File headers can also be examined. FutureOS uses expanded but compatible file-headers, that allow a file to be up to 16 MB in length. The file-header can additionally specify the target RAM of a file. Further it can contain a file icon or a short file description. One or more files can be LOADed, SAVEd, RENamed, ERAsed, COPYd or PRINTed on printer. Previously used files can be retagged for a second usage, or all files can be untagged. The I(nformation) icon provides any kind of help (if a help system is installed). Further there is the command bar menu [[FutureOS Monitor]], which provides access to RAM, ROM, Z80 registes, I/O ports and allows the testing of routines. === Hot keys ===Hot keys can be used every time while working in the Desktop. To activate or deactivate a device (drive, hard disc partition f.e.) press Space first, then the corresponding letter from A to M. A (retag All previously used files), B (jump over next file name without tagging), C (Copy discs), D (display Directory), E (Erase files or format discs), F (Filecopy), G (Go to function below mouse arrow or tag a file name), H (show IDE Hard-disc), I (get Information), J (Jump to first file name), L (Load file), M (enter Machine Monitor), N (reName file or disc), P (Print DIR or file), Q (Quit OS session or start new), S (Save file), U (Untag all files), V (View pictures of text), W (set Alarm time - Wecker), X (eXecute application), Y (edit date), Z (edit time). === SPARtan mode ===[[Image:SPARtan 1.png|thumb|right]] The '''SPARtan''' mode reduces the number of displayed icons to a icon set which can be immediately used. Using the Desktop will be easier and you see more of your wallpaper.When the Spartan mode is off, all icons will be shown all the time.The Spartan mode can be activated by setting a bit in the configuration bytes, either by hand of by using the ''''Konfig OS'''' / ''''Config OS'''' utility (see system application disc). === Auto-DIR mode ===If the Auto-DIR option is switched on you just click on an drive / partition icon to read, sort and show its DIRectory. Furthermore in this mode some 'AI' is activated f.e. when you click at the Copy icon and no files are tagged the Desktop will directly jump into Disc-copy mode instead the File-copy mode.If the Auto-DIR is off, then you need to do more things 'by hand', but you also have a bit more control over the system.The Auto-DIR mode can be activated by setting a bit in the configuration bytes. This is done by using the ''''Konfig OS'''' / ''''Config OS'''' utility (see system applications). === Wallpaper ===Like for most OS the background of the Desktop can be adapted. This is actually quite easy for FutureOS. Just use the application "-LoadHGB.64K" (English) / "-LadeHGB.64K" (German). HGB stands for "HinterGrundBild" and is German for Wallpaper. There are discs and ROMs full of wallpapers. If you want to create your own wallpapers then you'll need a MODE 2 screen with 512 x 256 pixel. You can even use an application inside [[JavaCPC]] for this. You also can load a wallpaper by hand: Place such a 16 KB (headerless) screen in one of the E-RAMs and set the right system variable of the OS (see file #OS-VAR.ENG). Here are some Wallpapers: http://futureos.cpc-live.com/files/Wallpaper_HGBs_Deu-Eng.zip Or take a direct look at some [[Wallpaper|Wallpapers]] == FutureOS hardware monitor ==The [[FutureOS Monitor]] is a small built in machine monitor of the [[FutureOS]] operating system. It contains basic functions to access (expansion) memory and the Porting system to comfortably access all the CPCs I/O ports. When using FutureOS for the CPC Plus you can also access all memory mapped I/O (hardware sprites, DMA-sound, soft scrolling etc.). === Features ===* Dump RAM, ROM, expansion RAM or memory mapped I/O (CPC Plus)* Edit RAM, expansion RAM or memory mapped I/O (CPC Plus)* Access all I/O ports of the CPC and external hardware* Edit Z80 registers (previously to calling an machine program). This includes the first and second register set, both index registers, the stack pointer, R and I* Configure RAM, ROM, I/O for other functions* Move block of memory, ROM, RAM, expansion RAM* Initialize block of memory with an 8 or 16 bit value, RAM, expansion RAM* Call a machine program or OS function* Exit, brings you back to the Desktop === Images === <gallery>caption="Some preview images of the game">Image:OS-Mon_1.pngImage:OS-Mon_2.pngImage:OS-Mon_3.png</gallery> == CBM - the UI for Applications ==[[Image:CBM.png|thumb|right]] The "'''C'''ommand '''B'''ar '''M'''enu" ([[CBM|CBM]]) is a partially resident part of FutureOS, which can be easily linked into applications. * It 's object oriented ('''OO''') user interface consists of several flexible windows, pull down menus and file selectors. You * In addition hot keys can easily use be used. * Using [[CBM|CBM]] as the standard (G/T)UI for your own FutureOS programshelps making them looking similar and usable in an intuitive way. Since all programs that use&nbsp;* A part of the CBM is located in the FutureOS ROMs, the flexible part can be individually adapted to its target applications and will be integrated in the application itself. [[CBMImage:Caruh.png|CBMthumb|192px|Example of Task Manager Caruh]]&nbsp;look similar its also easy == Caruh - the Task Manager for Applications ==[[Caruh]] is the task manager for the cooperative preemptive multitasking under FutureOS. It's available as RAM application (and planned for lower ROM - which offers limited memory protection). Features of Tasks:* Up to use 255 different programs in tasks* Every task has its own RAM and stack* Tasks have a priority* Tasks can use a part of the main screen (background task) or an&nbsp;intuitive wayown complete screen (foreground task)* Tasks use multiple screens, which can be swapped. No chaotic window structure.* Tasks can be dynamically added and/or deleted* Tasks can be saved and continued later or on other computers* Tasks can use additional OS functions* The regular Turbo Desktop of FutureOS can be used too* Aside of screen MODEs 0-3 different screen formats are usable (80x25, 68x30, 64x32)
== File system ==
[[Image:HERO-HED.JPG|thumb|192px|Example of FutureOS file header]]
The file system of FutureOS can handle multiple simultaneous floppy disc drives and hard disc partitions. Also SD cards are supported up to 32 GB. After the selection of a device the devices FutureOS reads and buffers the directory entries of the mediumdevices. This speeds up the the data transfer significantly. Integrated utilities like the multi file copy can copy files from physical sources to different physical destinations in one run.
The file system is compatible with the CPCs native data-, file- and format structures (f. e. File header, Disc formats), but expanded in many ways. It is not compatible with native [[AMSDOS|AMSDOS]] or [[CP/M|CP/M]] programsFutureOS supports the Data, IBM, System, Vendor and Vortex (704 KB) disc formats.
Filenames can use all 256 different characters and user areas from 0 to 254 (except for &amp;E5, which is reserved for deleted files). Unlike Amsdos, a file that is erased under FutureOS is not shifted to user &amp;E5, but is physically removed from the directory. During this process the directory get sorted. File headers are can be displayed as AmsDOS small text files or the icon-like file-header of as graphic icons (f. e. a FutureOS programapplication). An AmsDOS file header has 128 bytes of which most are unused. FutureOS makes use of those unused bytes so that files have a length definition of 24bit 24 bit (16 MB file length) and can have a physical RAM select. Therefore a file can be defined to be loaded everywhere in the external RAM. Also a [[FutureOS Header|FutureOS file-header ]] can contain a graphical icon, a textual icon or a short description of the file.
== Hardware ==FutureOS includes the fastest FDC-based disc- and file-reading and writing routines for the CPC. This is possible by ignoring the interleave factor, reading one physical sector directly after each other to the correct position in memory but also by just starting with the first appearing sector of every new track. In addition the DIRectory is buffered in RAM, the head of the floppy must not step back to look for the next block. The track step rate is increased and can be adjusted for every drive. It's even faster than optimized copy programs like Crowns' [[Crime|Crime]].
The OS supports many == Implementation of the hardware available for the CPC. One of the ambitions of FutureOS is to support all hardware available. Hardware expansions usually need drivers that can be flexibly added to an OS. Contrary to this approach, a goal of FutureOS is to provide a monolithic architecture where all drivers are implemented in a hardcoded way. ==
*''Disc drives and hard discs:'' FutureOS The OS supports up many of the hardware available for the CPC. One of the ambitions of FutureOS is to eight drives and up support all hardware available. Hardware expansions usually need drivers that can be flexibly added to four hard disc partitionsan OS. It buffers the directories read from any mass storage device Contrary to this approach, a goal of FutureOS is to provide a monolithic architecture where all drivers are implemented in the expansion RAMa hardcoded way.
*''Plug Disc drives and Playhard discs:'' If a hardware expansion is connected FutureOS supports up to the CPC FutureOS will automatically detect that expansion, initialise it eight floppy disc drives and make it available up to the userfour hard disc partitions (Dobbertin HD20 hard disc). The architecture of It buffers the OS allows you to add and remove hardware on purpose. The user can switch external hardware on or off directories read from any mass storage device in the configuration bytes (use ConfigOS utility)expansion RAM to speed up drive access.
== Supported Hardware ==*''Plug and Play:'' If a hardware expansion is connected to the CPC FutureOS will automatically detect that expansion, initialise it and make it available to user and applications. The architecture of the OS allows you to add and remove hardware on purpose (hot plug and play). You can switch external hardware on or off in the configuration bytes (use ConfigOS utility).
'''== Memory Management ===== RAM ===* Unlike other CPC-OS the FutureOS uses only small amounts of the memory of the CPC since it is located and executed in ROM.* When using the Desktop the OS uses the RAM between &A000 and &BFFF (8 bit printer ports<br>'''KB).* In case an application is running: The RAM that is used by the OS can be reduced to the region between &B800 and &BFFF, in this case only 2 KB are occupied by system variables of the OS.* Depending on the amount of active drives and HD partitions additional expansion RAM blocks will be occupied for directory buffering, but there is no reduction in free main memory (first 64 KB). After loading data this buffers can be freed again of course.* FutureOS provides an expansion RAM manager containing all needed OS functions to check for, order, allocate, free and manage expansion RAM up to 4 MB.* Also files of that length (4 MB) can be loaded and saved at once. This depends on the amount of connected E-RAM of course.
=== ROM ===* The core OS uses 64 KB ROM*8 bit printer port 6128 Plus By using fixed ROM numbers quick jumps can be made from one ROM to another ROM without the need of using RAM. This is also true for additional ROMs which want to use the API in the care ROMs A-D.*8 bit printer port patch FutureOS provides an expansion ROM ([[8255|PIO]]XROM)architecture which allows to add programs as expansion ROMs. For the native OS these ROMs are declared as "extension" and will NOT be initialized.
'''Drives<br>'''==== XROMs ====* Currently there are a few XROMs for FutureOS:** ROManager 2.4.3 - to manage any kind of (Flash-)ROM expansion and the M4** System-Tools (English or German) - Control Panel, Configuration, System Information, and and and** Wallpapers I, II and III - enjoy a pretty background picture** FutureTex - text editor, character designer and keyboard manage** XROM for the M4 SD card mass storage (under development, request beta version from TFM)
* Applications from an XROM can be automatically launched when FutureOS starts up. F.e. you can have your favorite wallpaper when starting FutureOS. The tools to setup autostart are on the XROM disc.
 
== OS supported Hardware ==
 
==== Printer ports ====
*7 bit [[Printer Port|printer port]] (native)
*[[8bit Printer Ports|8 bit printer port]] 6128plus using Amstrads CRTC solution
*[[Happy Computer 8bit Printer Mod|Happy Computer Mod]] using CAS_WRITE as Bit 7.
 
==== Drives ====
*3" A, B, C and D drives (C, D need hardware patch)
*3.5" and 5.25" drive
*Atari ST 80 Track DS double-sided B-drive *[[Dobbertin|Dobbertin]] D-DOS Double drive. Up to four drives 80 track, DS double-sided. *[[Dobbertin|Dobbertin X]] [[XD-driveDOS]] X-drive 80 tracks, DS *[[F1|Vortex disc drives FI-D, F1-S, F1-X, M1-D, M1-S]]. Own FDC, up to four drives 80 track, double-sided.*[[F1|Vortex disc drives F1-X, M1-X]]. Up to 80 track, double-sided.and ...*[[HxC Floppy Emulator]] (On message "Disc is write protected" put a HFE in HxC or adjust its configuration)
'''==== Expansion cards<br>'''====*[[Albireo]] (partial)*[[AMRAM2]] (combined EPROM and S-RAM card)*[[C4CPC]] 6128 Plus version*[[CPC Booster]](+) and MiniBooster*[[M4 Board]] (RTC, ROM management)*[[SYMBiFACE II|SYMBiFACE II]] (partial)*[[SYMBiFACE III|SYMBiFACE III]] (partial)*HD64180 Coprocessor card*[[EPROM]] cards or EPROM simulator cards like the [[Britannia ROM Board]], [[Dobbertin]] EPROM card, [[Honeysoft ROM Board]], [[Inicron ROM-RAM-Box]], [[KDS Sideways ROM Board]], [[MegaFlash]], [[MegaROM]], [[SuperPower ROM Box]], [[SYMBiFACE II]], SuperROM Plus and others
==== Mass storage / Hard-discs ====*[[SYMBiFACE IIDobbertin Harddisc|SYMBiFACE IIDobbertin HD20]](72 KB/s data transfer rate, four partitions of 5160 KB)*[[M4 Board]] (135 KB/s data transfer rate, SD card supported)
'''Floppy ===== Hard-discsdiscontinued =====*[[CPC-IDE]],&nbsp;formats:<br>'''[[SYMBiFACE II]] and [[X-MASS]] IDE support, but only low-level, FutureOS IDE-ROM needed*[[IDE8255]] IDE support, but only low-level, FutureOS IDE-ROM needed
*Data *IBM *System ==== Joysticks ====*Vendor [[Analog Joysticks|Analog Joystick]] (6128 Plus) *Vortex[[Digital Joysticks]] 1 and 2
==== Memory expansions ====* 4 MB expansion from Zaxon*[[c't 512 KB internal RAM expansion]] (DIY) (c't magazine)*[[Campursoft ROM Board]] (DIY)*[[CPC4MB|Jareks 4 MB RAM expansion]] provides 4 MB RAM*[[D-ROM]]*[[Dk'Graphic Tablet'tronics memory expansion|Dk'tronics]] 64-512 KB and compatibles *[[Dobbertin Memory Expansion|Dobbertin]]*[[FlashGordon]]*[[Inicron RAM-Box|Inicron]]*[[Inicron ROM-RAM-Box]]*[[M4 Board]]*[[MegaFlash]]*[[RAM7 2MB memory expansion|RAM7' s RAM expansion]]&nbsp;(up to 2 MB) *[[RAM BOX]]*[[SYMBiFACE II|SYMBiFACE II]]*[[X-MEM]]*[[Y-MEM]]*[[Z-MEM]]
*Hegetron [[Grafpad II|Grafpad&nbsp;II]]CPC464 and CPC664 users can run FutureOS when using this RAM expansion:http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/amstrad-cpc-hardware/open-source-diy-512kb-ram-expansion/msg163566/#msg163566
'''Hard==== Real-disc<br>''Time-Clocks ====*[[Dobbertin Smart Watch]] and the version from dxs*[[LambdaSpeak III]] and [[LambdaSpeak FS]]*[[M4 Board]]*[https://pulkomandy.github.io/shinra.github.io/nova.html Nova]*[[SYMBiFACE II:Realtime clock|SYMBiFACE II]]*[[SYMBiFACE III]]*[[Dk'tronics Real Time Clock]]
==== Sound and Music ====*[[Dobbertin HarddiscAmstrad SSA-1 Speech Synthesizer]]*[[CTC-AY SDK main fr|Dobbertin HD20CTC-AY]] aka [[PlayCity]]*[[Digiblaster]]*[[Dk'tronics Speech Synthesizer]]*[[FuturePlayer]] for MP3 samples up to 128 kbps (72 KB/s data transfer ratemax. 4 MB in size)*[[LambdaSpeak]] (the MP3 module is fully supported)*[[Soundplayer]]
==== Networking ====*[[Amstrad Serial Interface]]*[[CPC Booster]]+ and TotO'''Joysticks<br>'''s MiniBooster*[[Schneider RS232 Interface]]*[[USIfAC]]*[[Virtual Net 96]]There is limited support at the moment
*Analog Joystick === Additional HIDs (6128 PlusHot Plug & Play compatible) *Digital Joystick 1 *Digital Joystick 2===
'''LightThe following pointer-Pens<br>'''based input devices are supported by FutureOS. Applications can use them by calling the appropriate OS function in OS-ROMs A, C or D.
==== Mice ====*[[Dk'tronics LightpenAlbireo|Dk'tronicsAlbireo Mouse]] *Happy[[Atari-Computer ST mouse adapter|Atari ST mouse adapter]] ([[CPC Magazin|Schneider Magazin]])*Lindy[[AMX Mouse|AMX Mouse]], [[PS2Mouse|AMX PS/2 Mouse Adapter]]*[[CPC-Mousepack 2.0|CPC-Mousepack]] (Reisware)*[[GEOS mouse|GEOS mouse]] ([[Commodore 64]] device)*[[Imperium Solo]]*[[MultiPlay]] one or both mouses (ACME)*[[SYMBiFACE II:PS/2 mouse|PS/2 mouse]] of [[SYMBiFACE II]]*[[USB mouse]] of [[SYMBiFACE III]]*[[Dk'tronics Mouse Interface]] limited
==== Lightpens ====*[[Dk'tronics Lightpen|Dk''Memory expansions<br>'''tronics lightpen]]*[[Happy Computer Light Pen]] (DIY from German magazine)*[[Lindy Light Pen]]
==== Graphic Tablets ====*[[Dk'tronics memory expansion|Dk'tronics]] 64-512 KB and compatibles ([[Dobbertin Memory Expansion|Dobbertin]], [[Inicron RAM-Box|Inicron]], [[SYMBiFACE Grafpad II|SYMBiFACE Hegotron Grafpad II]]) *[[RAM7 2Mb memory expansion|RAM7's RAM expansion]]&nbsp;(up to 2 MB) *[[CPC4MB|Jareks 4 MB RAM expansion]] up to 4 MB
'''Mice''' ==== Trackballs ====*[[Atari-ST mouse adapter|Atari ST trackball adapter]] (Schneider Magazin)*[[Marconi|Marconi trackball]]
*[[AMX Mouse|AMX_Mouse]] *[[Atari== ROM-ST mouse adapter|Atari ST]] (Schneider Magazin) *[[CPC-Mousepack|CPC-Mousepack]] (Reisware) *[[CPC-Mousepack 2.0|CPC-Mousepack 2.0]] (Reisware) *[[GEOS mouse|GEOS mouse]] ([[Commodore 64|C64]]) *[[SYMBiFACE II:PS/2 mouse|PS/2 mouse]] of SYMBiFACE II&nbsp;included Utilities ==
'''RealThe FutureOS ROMs already include several utilities as an addition to the operating system. Tools like copy (files or discs), format discs (data-Time, system-Clocks''' , ibm- and Vortex-format), erase files, rename files, type and print files, set alarm time, set time of RTC, verify discs or directory refreshing, display file-header etc. are available without the need to load them from an external medium.
*Dobbertin Smart Watch (at ROM select 15) *[[SYMBiFACE II:Realtime clock|SYMBiFACE II]]&nbsp;Multiple files can be copied between different physical media and user numbers / directories in one go.
'''Trackballs''' A small machine monitor is also provided. The [[FutureOS Monitor]] provides features like CPU register editing (all!), access to the I/O ports, memory dump and editing, and display and manipulation of the ASIC contents (6128 Plus). Memory blocks can be copied or initialized. It is possible to call (and return from) a routine with defined CPU registers (complete register set) and memory.
*[[Atari-ST mouse adapter|Atari ST]] (Schneider Magazin) *[[Marconi|Marconi]]== OS functions ==
== Utilities ==Only some examples are mentioned.* The String Editor: It allows to enter strings up to 64 KB, different character sets can be used, a range of legal letters can be defined, four keyboard levels (normal, shift, control and shift+control) can be used.
There exist tools like copy, format, verify or directory refreshing. Multiple files can be copied between different physical media in one go.
A small machine monitor is also provided. This monitor provides features like CPU register editing, I/O ports, memory editing and display and manipulation of the ASIC contents (6128 Plus). Memory blocks can be copied or initialised. It is possible to call a routine with defined CPU registers and memory. == Developing for FutureOS ==
== Developing You can develop very freely: the RSTs are free for FutureOS ==use, you can choose the interrupt mode and access all the hardware. Also the second register set of the Z80 can be completely used by applications - in contrast to all other OS for the CPC.
*''Z80 Assembler:'' You can developp very freely, even the RST vectors are free usableuse an assembler for AmsDOS or for CP/M. Also Switching between AmsDOS and FutureOS is fast and using |FDESK allows to come back to AmsDOS with the second register set of the Z80 first 48 KB or RAM remaining untouched. There is freely usablea Z80 library for FutureOS the programmer can use for own applications.
*''Z80 AssemblerThe Command Bar Menu:'' You In addition [[CBM]] can use an assembler for AmsDOS or for CP/Mmake application development easy and quick. Switching between AmsDOS All needed sources are provided and FutureOS is fast and using |FDESK allows explained. A variety of sample programs exist to come back show how to AmsDOS with the first 48 KB or RAM remaining untoucheduse CBM.
*''Programming in C for FutureOS:'' With [[FIOLIB|FIOLIB]] - the IO-Lib for FutureOS it 's also possible to use C as a programming language. Beside the usual I/O the FIOLIB provides a lot of valuable functions for management of text, keyboard, files, relative files, screen, colors, graphic and more.
== Applications / Demos / Games / Programs ==
The following programs can be&nbsp;downloaded&nbsp;at the FutureOS homepage, see Weblinks below.
=== Games ===*[[Burnin Wheels]] (Soft scrolling car racing game) *[[Cyber Huhn|Cyber Chicken]] (3D space game)*[[Gerelakos|Gerelakos]] ([[RPG]] under construction) *[[H.E.R.O.]] by [[Flynn]]*[[Return of the Sisters|Return of the Sisters]] (a Giana Sisters Clone) WIP name "A tribute to the Sisters..." === Demos ===*[[Captain Future ]] (4 MB movie that uses Jareks 4 MB expansion)*[[Darth Vader]] (stand alone demo )*[[FutureView|FutureView]] (disc mag) *[[Gravitation Zero]]*[[Meg Ryan sample]] demo*[[NGC4650A]]*[[Odiesofts Snow]]*[[Rotating Fractal]] (stand alone demo)*[[Star Trek sample demo]] === Applications ===*[[Caruh]] (partial ROM resident OS expansion: Multi-Tasking Manager) *[[CBM|CBM]] (pull down menu librarypartial ROM resident OS expansion: Common Application (G)UI) *Darth Vader demo [[-CntrlPanel]] (control panel)
*[[FilmeMacher|FilmeMacher]] (movie player)
*[[FIOLIB|FIOLIB]] (C library)
*[[Flash ROManager|Flash ROManager]] (management of Jareks Flash ROM expansion)
*Fractal demo *[[FuturePlayer|FuturePlayer]] (MP3 and WAV player) - Ask TFM for MP3 files on discs*[[FutureView|FutureView]] (disc mag) *[[GerelakosFutureTex|GerelakosFutureTex]] (RPG under constructiontext editor)
*[[GMSK|GMSK]] (sprite converter)
*[[GSED|GSED]] (Graphic Playground Editor for 2D / 3D games) *Meg Ryan sample demo Kane (sprite grabber)*HD20 BackUp / Compare / Restore Tool for the Dobbertin HD20 hard disc (20 MB) - also using M4 SD card!*HD20 Emulation Image Selector (Tool for the SF3 Dobbertin HD20 hard disc emulation)*[[Return MegaFlashROManager]] (management of the Sisters|Return of the SistersMegaFlash Pseudo-ROMs for FutureOS and BASIC)*[[MMcR Format]] (a Giana Sisters CloneUltrafast formatting tool for batches of discs) *[[ROManager|ROManager]] (management of the [[SYMBiFACE II|Symbiface]] a variety of Flash- and Pseudo-ROMsROM cards)
== Conclusion ==
FutureOS is the longest running projects for the CPC6128 / 6128plus. It's development startet around 1989 and in 2023 we saw a new release.It's designed as an OS with fast routines system calls and support for nearly all CPC expansions. It has specialised file handling and memory management capabilities that support programs up to 4 MBand files up to 16 MB. SD cards are supported up to 32 GB. In addition FutureOS already contains lots of useful tools and utilities. The idea is that development of professional software, games, graphic tools, word processors, sound (especially MP3), management of big amounts of data, and programming languages are possible in this environment. At this point, the user can do all this, like listen to MP3 files, work with graphic, use and create C programs, watch movies &amp; , demos and play games(see weblinks). <br>
== Web links ==
=== General ===*[http://www.FutureOS.de FutureOS homepage.de] *[http://groupskoaks.yahooamstrad.free.fr/amstrad/documents/article_futureos.html FutureOS, le supersonique du CPC] === Discussion Forum ===*[http://www.cpcwiki.eu/forum/programming/futureos-corner/ Discussions in English]*[http://cpc-live.com/groupforum/index.php/board,5.0.html Diskussionen auf Deutsch] === Youtube Videos ===There is a special youtube channel for FutureOS, it provides different playlists for different topics related to this comprehensive OS. Please have a look here:*[https://www.youtube.com/user/realTFM/ playlists FutureOS Downloads &amp; Mailing listPlaylists]
[[Category:Operating_System4 MB RAM Software Support]] [[Category:Cartridges]] [[Category:CPC GUI]] [[Category:CPC_Plus]] [[Category:Digiblaster]][[Category:Expansion ROM]] [[Category:Extended RAM Software]] [[Category:FutureOS]] [[Category:Operating_System]]
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