I think i have an idea for a whole QBASIC operating system, looks similar
to linux, and would use complete basic code.. i have a few custom compilers
in mind. to translate to 2 forms.. to ASM (which would then be turned to
machine language..) and then a KERNEL language, which is slower, but special
features, such as supper advanced math (Emulation) would be present, allowing
you endless bit calculation(like 256 bit floating points..).. then a special
GUI compiler, for use specifically with the GUI.. similar to windows..
(Kinda like C++ but only special points for window calculations and others..)
(but then again, programmed right, it can go with either of the other
compilers..).. Then a Translator.. for between languages.. From BASIC to C,
and ASM to C and ASM to BASIC, and a few other free compilers, decoders and
the like to make all programmers proud.. and the BASIC/KERNEL executables
would be nearly virus proof.. with this and a few more resources, i think
i can build this.. along with a built in compression program(s), and
libraries, (That you can add, update and lots of other things..)
If you want power, and stability.. you would go with linux instead.. or
Windows NT.. but if you want the BASICS.. this is going to go through..
i will need resources on accessing the Extended memory, and other important
texts for accessing the hard drive and the like.. but after i get it going..
we can have our own KERNEL.. maybe our own file system.. i will make a book
of 'rules' that we should follow if we are programmers, for any of the items..
with work i think i can get the main KERNEL, or basics going..
Also, there's the idea of a GUI.. also built in to the KERNEL.. (One of
the rules) that any program built for GUI would also have a bypass, so it can
go in a text only mode, and work just as good.. with it's own ANSI or regular
interface in text.. And some other rules, like library manipulation.. that
all the previous features either not be changed, or improved, so it is
faster, but gets the same code.. and ANY other libraries needed to make the
library work, has to be either included, or notified in a readme..
With work, we can make it access networks (Maybe) and the modem, for
Terminal or Internet use.. sound card sounds, small games, animations..
and other things.. this would be a 'open source code' or 'free' software,
as declared by GNU's licensing program.. Any and all help would be
appreciated.. I also think, this operating system (Should it ever take off
the ground) would become quite complex... each version would be updated, and
customized for certain purposes.. maybe.. which you can enable and disable
just about any feature..
We would also need a CPU tester, that would allow us to know what series it
is.. what instruction sets are there (And for the math speed up for the
maximum) and to check the current memory values.. Then, with your
permission.. will suck the Extended memory up, and place it's own memory
manager in.. along with a few compression things, (that you can disable) for
size, bits and flexibility..
For the popularity of the newer hardware.. we would make it a PLUG and PLAY
operating system.. (Which can be disabled) which could then detect the
hardware, but i suggest against scanners, and cdwriters.. and for printers..
basic Epson printers.. (Black and white) but color printing and pictures,
may be possible when we can figure them out, and perhaps more resources from
companies and from linux users can get us off the ground..
Drivers, for sound cards and cdroms.. and ZIP drives will have to be
installed before the KERNEL is loaded.. (The Mouse i am not so sure about..
try it either way) making the DOS/BASIC software easier to work with..
This would work with any version of DOS (Including Windows 95.. i suggest
against 98, although i see nothing wrong with it really) and WINDOWS NT will
not work, since it is already in control..
If you are interested, please contact me.. and try to spread this as you
can.. you don't have to if you don't want to.. i just want to make a simpler
operating system, until i am ready to go to a more advanced one..
(Don't get me wrong, i love linux.. but i don't know C very well, but i know
BASIC fantastically.. especially Qbasic.. so with an operating system based
on Qbasic, flexible and fast.. would be great for everyone.. being free..
we can make our own programs without needing other's permission either..
kinda like what linux and GNU had in mind.. and making it free software
(Up to you) will allow all those other users like me, to expand and learn..
and when we are ready.. (With the BASIC to C compiler) we can move to linux,
when we are ready.. or to windows, or wherever we want.. (Or stick with DOS..)
and with a little more work, get this to MacIntosh's/Macs as well.. or
at least a compiler to work with the most basic of programs, until it
matures enough)
If you have any questions, contact me.. at rtcvb32@coffey.com
Era Scarecrow
(
geocities.com/siliconvalley/haven) (
geocities.com/siliconvalley)