[gmpi] Re: Decision Time: 8.3

On Sun, Sep 14, 2003 at 10:42:46AM +0100, Steve Harris wrote:
> On Sat, Sep 13, 2003 at 11:38:17 -0700, Tim Hockin wrote:
> > What of platforms that do not have FPUs?
> 
> They still have libm, but I guess its an unnessary expense.
> 
> Another alternative would be to make it that same format as a sample (ala
> LADSPA). Assuming we do go for a single sample format.

That's kinda what I was thinking.

I see a need for

float - many normal params
double - high res params
int - many normal params
enum - radio buttons, N-position knobs
bool - buttons
string - filenames, words
blob - misc


Now, float can be translated to be the same as sample_type.  I'm not sure
how thinsg that require double-precision can be translated into non-FPU.
This whole non-FPU thing is a real pain in the ass.

<aside>
I want to make a motion that we NOT consider systems without FPUs, or that
we find some simpler way to handle it.  Perhaps those non-FPU platforms
don't have to do FP audio IO, but _do_ need to do float/double parameters?

What is the real goal of non-FPU support?  Where are it's backers?  Whenever
someone says something that might make non-FPU systems hurt, no one speaks
up for them.  Are we solving a problem that doesn't exit?
</aside>

Int parameters can be faked using float.

Enum and bool can be faked using int.

String and Blob are obvious, I think.

So that leaves my NEED list at float/real/sample_type + string + blob.  Are
there good reasons to turn anything else into fundamental primitives?
Perhaps int - can anyone justify it?

-- 
Notice that as computers are becoming easier and easier to use,
suddenly there's a big market for "Dummies" books.  Cause and effect,
or merely an ironic juxtaposition of unrelated facts?


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