ID Number: Q39565
3.x 4.00 4.01
MS-DOS
Summary:
The Virtual Control Program Interface (VCPI) is a software
specification for writing MS-DOS programs that run in 80286 protected
mode, 80386 protected mode, or 80386 virtual 8086 mode. The
specification is targeted for programs that work intimately with the
80386 microprocessor, addressing technical issues such as CPU mode
switching, hardware interrupt processing, and the sharing of extended
memory. Most of the VCPI calls are made through interrupt 67H,
normally used exclusively by an Expanded Memory Manager (EMM).
More Information:
The six initial sponsors of this specification are Phar Lap Software,
Inc., of Cambridge, MA; Quarterdeck Office Systems, Inc., of Santa
Monica, CA; A.I. Architects, Inc., of Cambridge, MA; Quadram, Inc., of
Norcross, GA; Qualitas, Inc., of Bethesda, MD; and Rational Systems,
Inc., of Natick, MA. This specification can be obtained by contacting
Phar Lap Software, Inc., at the following address:
Phar Lap Software, Inc.
60 Aberdeen Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
(617) 661-1510
Richard M. Smith, VCPI Coordinator
The eXtended Memory Specification (XMS), which was jointly developed
by Microsoft Corporation, Lotus Development Corporation, Intel
Corporation, and AST Research, Inc., is a separate and independent
specification.