C compiler

[AHelper]

(09-13-2015 04:43 AM)webmasterpdx Wrote:  BUt the TI's, etc, all an run native programs, plus what I'm suggesting doesn't interfere with the OS at all....exam mode isn't affected.

Its not just your intentions, opening up native code execution can lead to uncontrolled modifications to the operation of the OS which could potentially include interfering with exam mode features. TI's that allow native code execution are able to have exam modes modified. Look at what TI has to do with the nspire line with the introduction of native code execution, blocking exploit after exploit. And further, newer TI's aimed at being used with exams that need strict exam modes have removed native code execution altogether (TI-82 Advanced).

Getting native code sandboxed in a way that securely prevents interference with the OS but hooks into Giac and other OS-specific libraries in a controlled way is not a small and simple task, probably outside the scope of the design requirements.

This discussion has mainly revolved around the existing HP-made OS, however this hasn't touched on 3rd-party firmware that provides no interaction with the original OS and has no exam mode. I don't know if not having any PTT would be safe regarding "PLEASE STAY AWAY FROM ANYTHING THAT MESSES WITH THE EXAM MODE" if PTT isn't a feature, as-in I don't know if PTT requirement is tied to the OS or the device itself.