                                                       From: J.Knudstrup
                                                             R.Schmutzer
                                                       Date: 02 December 1999

          VLT-SW-OCT1999 - RELEASE NOTES FOR INS COMMON SOFTWARE
          ======================================================

DXF:
	No Changes.

PCO:
	No Changes.

IST:
	No Changes.

MISC:
	Ported to Linux.

SLX:
	Ported to Linux.

	Support for 5 sub-systems for FITS keywords. Certain functions
	enhanced. Ie. partial support.
	

OSLX:
	Ported to Linux.

	Implemented support for 5 sub-systems in FITS keywords (also 
	Short-FITS). Should cover all features provided, ie. full support.

	Implemented support for FITS file extension.

	Implemented possibility to load Alias Tables using complete path.

	Improved algorithm for loading Dictionaries.

ICB (Base ICS):

        This VLT Software distribution releases a reviewed version of the
        Base ICS package, called 'icb'.  The icb package differs from its
        predecesor introducing a new simplified public interface: ICS is
        mostly configured via a single configuration file; generic ICS
        processes provided by icb configure themselves according to this
        configuration to control a specific instrument.

        icb is described in a completely rewritten Base ICS manual
        (VLT-MAN-ESO-17240-0934, issue 2.0); it includes a tutorial of how 
        to build an instrument specific ICS based in icb.

        Being this the first issue of icb, it is subject to possible changes
        in the future.

        The previous Base ICS version (ic0) has to be considered obsolete.
        Support will be given to instrument software that are already using
        the ic0 interface, however new instruments are strongly encouraged
        to use the new version icb.  In fact, both VLT Test Cameras are
        expected to be ported to icb during the next year.


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