Digital Research chose the Intel Fair in London for the first public demonstration of its new FlexOS 386 real-time operating system for the flexible automation manufacturing, laboratory, retail and financial markets. Upwards-compatible with FlexOS 286, it supports the FlexOS 186 kernel version that is designed for remote 80186-based cell controllers linked to a FlexOS 386 or 286 host. The multi-tasking, multi-user operating system includes a windowing feature that enables MS-DOS and graphics programs to be run in a DOS Application Environment: this supports MS-DOS 3.2 functionality and the Digital Research GEM Graphics Environment Manager. FlexOS 386 is designed for very fast interrupt response and context switching. The operating system will be available in Europe, but in the interim, a development kit including FlexOS 286, MS-DOS 2.1 Application Environment, Metaware High C compiler and GEM virtual device interface, to run on IBM Personal ATs and AT-alikes is available at UKP995.
