Re: [Leica] R8 and Japan - Correction

[Erwin Puts <imxputs@knoware.nl>]

>
>Specifically, from Jonathan Eastland's "Leica R8," Hove Books, page 7:
>
>"The main Central Processing Unit (CPU) is based upon a 16 bit Mitsubishi
>chip with 2K RAM and 60K ROM operating at a clock frequency of 8Mhz. The
>special software required to run the R8 uses more than 50K ROM."

Mr. Eastland is not famous for accuracy of statements. 'Based upon' is one
of those journalistic non-info statements that convey no real informational
value. It is techno-speak. The projectmanager and body designer of the R8
(Mr Henrichs and Meinzer) whom I could interview a few years ago, told me
that the design of the electronics has been done by the Leica (German)
design team with the help of university people. It is more than logical to
buy one of the many industrial chips available and not invent the wheel
again. This tells you absolutely nothing about the quality or functionality
or originality. NO one would say that Leica lenses are Japanese because
some of the glass used is bought from Hoya. The computers that run their
optical programs are Intel based. Gives you a very good insight into the
origins of the Leica designs, does it?
Erwin