Re: ANN: Web Browser for 8 bit Apple //

[you@somehost.somedomain (Bart)]

I don't know if this adds any, muddies the waters or...., but,

Just to let folks know who have not tinkered with it; the LANceGS card works 
to one degree in the IIe: The system setup and test applications are all 8 bit 
PRODOS.  The actual IP address and such for this Ethernet card is set in the 
internal firmware. yes,   it sets the TCP/IP address in the firmware.
Let me state that another way:  Most ethernet cards for other platforms; PC 
Mac, Sun, Mr Coffee,  have the MAC or physical address of the card set 
internally.  All other pertinant addresses are established at a MUCH higher 
level by the protocol being used (dotted quad on  TCP, Novell address, etc). 
BUT as the LANceGS is a TCP/IP ONLY Ethernet card it uses a differrent 
aproach. 
 Though Mr Lange has not revealed the chipset in use or the mechanics of the 
internal firmware, the aproach is quite straight forward.  The LANce is 
designed to speak TCP to a Marinetti (16 bit 65816 developed TCP/IP protocol; 
thanks you Richard Bennett!) "Driver".  This "Driver: does the translates 
between the LANce and the GS running Marinetti.
 Now, my point is simple here:  A LANceGS needs a TCP aware network to talk 
to, and a 8 bit BUS to communicate.  Thats right an 8 bit BUS. it IS a slot 
card after all.  Also it uses 8 bit ProDOS utilites to tests it, ping it, set 
its IP, establish subnet, etc.  SO....it seems logical to ME at least that it 
would be possible to get this gadget to speak to some OTHER TCP/IP 
stack...if'n a feller were smart enough ;)
The LANceGS ain't cheap though; about one hundred fifty bucks or there abouts, 
so, save your box tops.

-Bart
Keeper of the Network from Heck