By Robert E. Schloss and Steve Erley, Omega Communications, Inc.
Abstract: The purpose of this project was to program an Apple Micro-Computer to perform the following functions in Omega's cable system in Brazil, Indiana.
- Channel Switching
- Character Generation
- Perpetual clock and calendar
The clock calendar function and the keyboard command functions interact with the computer to produce output voltages. These voltages switch coaxial switches to perform the above functions. Audio switching is similarly performed with the computer output voltages. The video output of the computer is used as a character generation and is routed to the switcher as an input. Upon command the computer will play messages and/or advertisements which the switcher will route to an output channel. At a cost of less than $3500 complete, the Apple II computer and switcher is an economical controller and character generator.