Graphic device upward compatability and transparency : the graphic modification interface sub-executive (GMISE) at Baylor

The classic circumstance of many installations attempting broad graphic support, has been a migration from incremental plotters to interactive graphic terminals with further migration to largely independent graphic satellites a possibility. Unforturately, while new system software may be rapidly developed supporting new graphic devices, application programs written for less contemporary systems and devices may be left isolated unless careful consideration is given to providing upward compatibility and multi-device transparency. Like other installations caught in the wave of graphic device migration, the Institute of Computer Science at Baylor College of Medicine found itself caught in a conflict between a large library of existing incremental plotter application programs and a desire to utilize graphic terminals. This document describes the research which led to a solution to this conflict as well as the establishment of a framework for future graphic system development.Computer Science, Department o