s in a video overlay environment.To encourage multimedia compatibility in the international arena, the IMA proposes IVPC platforms for both the NTSC (EIA RS-170A) and PAL (CCIR 470-1) video standards. NTSC-compatible platforms will carry the identifier “IVPC/NTSC”; PAL-compatible platforms will have the identifier “IVPC/PAL” (The Handbook of Multimedia 1997, p.56).The specifications include a personal computer based on the Intel x86 microprocessor architecture, a LaserVision-compatible videodisc player, an XY-input device, and a VGA-based overlay board with a compatible monitor. The detailed specifications follow.1.2.3Basic Computer System Defined by IMAProcessor: At minimum an Intel 80286 or fully compatible processor.BIOS: IBM AT compatible.Bus architecture: IBM AT, IBM Microchannel, or Enhanced Industry-Standard Architecture (EISA).Memory: At minimum, 640KB of random access memory (RAM).Disk storage: A hard disk and at least on e5.25-inch, 1.2MB floppy drive or 3-inch, 1.44MB floppy drive.I/O ports: Appropriate ports as required by the videodisc player and XY-input device. At least one IBM AT-compatible parallel port. A free IBM AT-compatible serial port is recommended but not required because the player and XY-input device may use both COM1 and COM2.Keyboard: Standard IBM AT-compatible keyboard; enhanced AT-compatible keyboard optional.Operating system: MS-DOS or PC-DOS version 3.3 or higher or functionally equivalent operating system operating in real mode.(Multimedia on the PC 1993, p. 2)ConclusionMultimedia applications require lots of storage space, creating a demand for larger disks. As applications continue to increase in size, they will incorporate training or realistic simulations. Applications that currently run directly off a CD-ROM or from a network file server may get transferred to the hard disk to increase performance and speed significantly.We can expect to see the development of high-per...
