Maybe I’m way too excited about this, but I’ve got good reasons to be excited! The new AcuGraph processor units are ready, and they’re really, really good!
So what’s the difference, you say?
That’s a great question! And it’s got two answers.
Answer #1:
The first answer is simple. As far as our users can tell, there is no difference. And that’s what’s so great!
We’ve completely duplicated the sound, sensitivity, reliability, function, and rock-solid results of the original AcuGraph processor unit, using completely new, modern technology. The new version looks, sounds, and behaves exactly as you expect—which was no small feat, given that the old version was originally designed in 2002, using what was, at the time, the latest technology.
The new design is based on parts that are more reliable, capable, and—most importantly—available, than the old design.
You see, it was getting increasingly difficult, and expensive, to even find the components in the old design. This led to parts shortages, build delays, and an insecure supply of hardware. Likewise, the old design required increasingly outdated computer software to program and test them.
The new design has addressed all these problems by using current, readily available components. It’s all the latest and greatest!
Answer #2:
The second answer is a bit nerdier—but really important!
The old design required that specialized hardware drivers be installed on your computer to communicate with the AcuGraph processor unit. Both Windows and Mac have become increasingly strict about drivers, ultimately making them very hard to install and maintain.
Many of our users have experienced no end of driver issues due to choices made by Microsoft and Apple. We’ve done all we can to help, but ultimately we’re all at the mercy of the companies that make the computer operating systems.
The really great news is that this problem is completely solved in the new design!
The new design uses universal system drivers already included in computer operating systems, so there’s no need to install additional drivers at all! This means our users will not face hours of mind-numbing Windows updates just to get driver issues sorted out! Plug it in, and it works!
So to summarize: Better parts, modern components, ready availability, no drivers needed, fewer support issues, and it still works just the way you expect! What’s not to love about that?
Here’s a graphical comparison of the old and new processor units:
Hopefully this answers your questions about the old and new AcuGraph hardware! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to my team at 208-846-8448. Thank you!
IMPORTANT NOTE: The new 2018 hardware is only compatible with current versions of AcuGraph 5. Users of prior versions of AcuGraph will need to upgrade to AcuGraph 5 to use the new hardware. If you have AcuGraph 4 or earlier, please click here or call us for upgrade options.
Click here for information about upgrading to AcuGraph 5 >>
-Adrian
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