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Chapter 9
GSX-86: Graphics For
The
APe
This chapter describes the features and operating procedures of GSX-86, the
Graphics System Extension of the CPM-86 Operating System. It explains what
GSX-86 does and how you can use its graphics functions. Later sections of the
chapter describe the GSX-86 system's architecture.
WHAT IS GSX-86
GSX-86 incorporates graphics capability into the CP/M-86 operating system and
provides a host-independent and device-independent interface for application pro-
grams. Graphics primitives are provided for implementing graphics applications
with reduced programming effort. OSX-86 enhances program portability by allow-
ing an application to run on any CP/M-86 system with the GSX-86 option.
GSX-86 And Application Programs
GSX-86 defines a standard interface to graphics peripherals from an application
program. Application programs written in assembly language (or a high-level
language that supports the GSX-86 calling conventions) can call GSX-86 with
appropriate calls to the Graphics Devices Operating System (ODOS). You can
compile/assemble and link programs containing GSX-86 calls in the normal
manner.
GSX-86 translates GDOS calls to fit the peculiarities of each graphics device
(printer, plotter, CRT, and so on). Since graphics devices are mechanically and
electronically different, GSX-86 requires a special program (called a device driver)
to run each device. Application programs can use the device drivers that are
included as part of GSX-86 on the CP/M-86 system distribution diskette (see Table
9-1). Alternatively, you can create customized device drivers using the procedures
described later in this chapter.
9-1
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