C H A P T E R 2

Container Views

The Main View’s Border

Every application’s main view must have a border, even if the border is not visible because the view fills the screen. Generally, an application’s main view should have a rounded-cornermatte border (as described under “View Border” on page 2-6). Alternatively, a main view can have a plain rounded- corner black border. A matte border is a better choice if the view is movable (or might be movable on a large screen), because users historically have associated matte borders with movable views and plain borders with stationary views. Figure 2-12 shows the two border styles.

Figure 2-12Main views have matte or plain borders with rounded corners

A movable main view is preferable to a fixed view. If users can’t move your application’s main view, they may have to close your application to work on another application beneath it. If you want a user to be able to leave your application open, make its main view small, matte-bordered, and movable.

It’s possible for a stationary main view to have a different border style and still look like it belongs on a Newton device. You need a strong reason—something more than personal preference—to give your application’s main view anything other than a rounded-corner black border or a rounded-corner matte border.

Main Views

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Apple 2 manual Main View’s Border
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2 specifications

The Apple II is a defining product in the history of personal computing, first introduced in 1977 by Apple Computer, Inc. Designed by Steve Wozniak, the Apple II was one of the first highly successful mass-produced microcomputer products and played a significant role in bringing personal computers into homes and schools.

One of the Apple II's standout features was its color graphics capability. It was one of the first personal computers to provide color output, thanks to its built-in video interface. The initial model supported a resolution of 280x192 pixels with a palette of 6 colors, which allowed for vibrant visuals that set it apart from contemporaries like the monochrome Altair 8800.

The Apple II was notable for its open architecture. This design allowed users to expand the computer's capabilities easily through a series of expansion slots. Users could add floppy disk drives, additional memory, and various peripheral devices, making the system highly adaptable to individual needs. This encouraged a thriving ecosystem of third-party hardware and software, which contributed to its popularity.

Another significant feature was its use of the 6502 microprocessor. This 8-bit CPU was not only affordable but also powerful for its time, allowing the Apple II to run various applications efficiently. Along with a built-in keyboard and an innovative plastic case that housed its components, the design was user-friendly and appealing.

The Apple II also introduced the concept of “bootable software” through the use of floppy disks. The disk operating system (DOS) allowed users to store and run multiple programs without having to reload software manually, providing a level of convenience that had not been widely available before. Key software like VisiCalc, the first spreadsheet program, helped boost sales, showcasing the Apple II's utility in business and education environments.

The computer was also well-known for its early adoption of BASIC programming language. Apple provided an operating system that supported Applesoft BASIC, which enabled users, including students, to write their programs, further fostering a community of developers.

In summary, the Apple II's color graphics, open architecture, powerful 6502 processor, innovative use of floppy disks, and support for BASIC programming made it a revolutionary product in its time. Its legacy laid the groundwork for future personal computers and established Apple as a leader in the burgeoning tech industry. The Apple II remains an iconic symbol of the early personal computing era, reflecting a generation's transition into a digitally connected world.
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