[Coco] Multi-Processor 6809 Computer System

[Bill Gunshannon]

> A muti-processor setup, if it could be made for the CoCo, wouldn't offer
> any benefits unless code is written specifically to utilize this extra
> processor... so I would have thought.

In a well designed SMP system different tasks would run on different
processors so there would certainly be a gain in performance.

>
> That's why I suggested the idea of a faster 6809 made from an FPGA that
> maintained the timing required by the GIME chip for video syncronization.

The faster processors paradigm does not necessarily scale as well as
SMP and it can have bad effects on programs that rely on the speed of
the CPU for timing.

>
> This would benafit ALL existing software... if it could be done.

As would SMP.  All changes are done at the OS level applications need
not even know they are running on a multi-processor machine.

>
> Something along the lines of Sock Master's 4Mhz mod but reliable if
> created with an FPGA to replace the stock 6809.
>
> Anyone with FPGA experience confirm this possibility?
>
> If possible, anyone in a position to try this? It could be the single
> greatest expansion option for the CoCo3.

I think the single greatest expansion option would be a plug in Video
Cartridge with better graphics and the ability to connect to modern
technology displays.

bill

-- 
Bill Gunshannon          |  de-moc-ra-cy (di mok' ra see) n.  Three wolves
billg999 at cs.scranton.edu |  and a sheep voting on what's for dinner.
University of Scranton   |
Scranton, Pennsylvania   |         #include <std.disclaimer.h>