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Silicon Times Report Issue 0100
*---== ST REPORT ONLINE MAGAZINE ==---*
"""""""""""""""""""""""""
"The Original Online ST Magazine"
_______________________________
August 11, 1989 Vol III No.100
=======================================================================
ST Report Online Magazine¿
__________________________
Post Office Box 6672
Jacksonville, Florida
32236 ~ 6672
R.F. Mariano
Publisher - Editor
_________________________________________
Voice: 904-783-3319 10 AM - 4 PM EDT
BBS: 904-786-4176 12-24-96 HST
FAX: 904-783-3319 12 AM - 6 AM EDT
_________________________________________
** F-NET NODE 350 ** FIDOMAIL NODE 1:363/37 **
Our support BBS carries ALL issues of STReport
and
An International list of private BBS systems
carrying STReport for their users enjoyment
__________________________________________________________________
> Issue: #100 STReport¿ The Online Magazine of Choice!
-------------------
- The Editors' Podium - CPU REPORT
- RISC - What is it? - DCS's NEW SOFTWARE!!
- Maxwell's GOGO ST! - Neil Harris, Another Look
- BLOODWYCH - A preview - VIDI ST In Depth Review
- Spectrum Holobyte SILENT! - Mediocre Software Hurts!
- DOUBLE CLICK -> DC TALK! - ST REPORT CONFIDENTIAL
----====***** SAM SEZ; "TOS 1.4 IS GENERALLY AVAILABLE"! *****====----
=======================================================================
AVAILABLE ON: COMP-U-SERVE ~ DELPHI ~ GENIE ~ BIX
=======================================================================
> The Editor's Podium¿
Here we are, another week closer to the "grand revelation" (8/25) and
I still see where there are serious, though easily corrected, problems
glaringly evident. Jerry Pournelle, the man who is single handedly
responsible for 1/3 of Byte Magazine's readership, is totally ignored by
the "wizards" at Atari. We felt we had to say something here because we
are seeing the parallels between the attitude of "Pournelle ain't that
effective" to many of the, off the cuff, snap decisions we have seen for
the last three years that usually resulted in tumultuous disasters.
To those at Atari who feel Jerry Pournelle is not widely read and
believed, let me say this, at this point in time, Pournelle's credibility
in the computer world is infinitely larger, stronger and easier to go for
than 'anybody in computing' especially Atari. ("The record speaks for
itself")
If Atari is sincere about it's resurgence in the USA, they would be
well advised to have the Jerry Pournelles, along with EVERY editor or
publisher, well informed directly from Atari without immature bias and
radical behavior on the part of certain of it's execs. We wonder how
everyone felt when they saw all the fancy desktop publishing systems on
the cover of Computer Shopper with Atari's entry obvious by it's absence.
One can only wonder if it would have been as easy to ignore the Mega,
SLM804, Moniterm DTP combo if Pournelle had been writing about Atari's
newest developments all along.
The present midlevel leadership at Atari is to be commended for trying
to get the job done and done right. These people, along with those who
work directly with them are doing a helluva job. Not unlike the "Chiefs"
in the USN, who actually keep things going, these folks have weathered
most all the rough times and managed to keep the the 'good' ship Atari
afloat. It is time for the highly placed execs to mature with the
industry and quit the childish games. Surely, the main man didn't drive a
cab and fix broken typewriters back in the Bronx for it all to come to..
"games grown men play in a sandbox". Truly, it is time for the leaders at
Atari to either 'lead' and/or allow the hired professionals to do the job
with out fear of the revolving door if they offend one of the 'boys'.
We feel the record needs to be set straight regarding the relationship
between STReport Online Magazine and John Townsend. We are concerned
about the fact there are those who seem to feel we are adversaries.
Nothing could be further from the truth! Although we may disagree over
certain issues, it is strictly on a professional basis. We, at STReport,
realize statements and releases of information from Atari must contain
only the "approved" words. John, and the rest of the younger folks
working for Atari perform a valuable service to the Atari community, of
this there is no doubt. At all times, although we may be critical of
Atari, make no mistake, there is nothing personal involved. We hold John
and all the hard working folks at Atari in the highest esteem.
We appreciate them even if it appears that we 'pick on em' <grin>
Thanks again, for your support,
Ralph.....
ps; What.....is a "software engine"? And.. why is it when the flow
control fix is installed, it's permanent?
"ATARI IS BACK!"
**********************************************************************
:HOW TO GET YOUR OWN GENIE ACCOUNT:
_________________________________
To sign up for GEnie service: Call: (with modem) 800-638-8369.
Upon connection type HHH (RETURN after that).
Wait for the U#= prompt.
Type XJM11877,GEnie and hit RETURN.
The system will prompt you for your information.
THE GENIE ATARI ST ROUNDTABLE - AN OVERVIEW
___________________________________________
The Roundtable is an area of GEnie specifically set aside for owners and
users of Atari ST computers, although all are welcome to participate.
There are three main sections to the Roundtable: the Bulletin Board, the
Software Library and the Real Time Conference area.
The Bulletin Board contains messages from Roundtable members on a variety
of Topics, organized under several Categories. These messages are all
Open and available for all to read (GEnie Mail should be used for private
messages).
If you have a question, comment, hot rumor or an answer to someone else's
question, the Bulletin Board is the place to share it.
The Software Library is where we keep the Public Domain software files
that are available to all Roundtable members. You can 'download' any of
these files to your own computer system by using a Terminal Program which
uses the 'XMODEM' file-transfer method. You can also share your favorite
Public Domain programs and files with other Roundtable members by
'uploading' them to the Software Library. Uploading on GEnie is FREE, so
you are encouraged to participate and help your Roundtable grow.
The Real Time Conference is an area where two or more Roundtable members
may get together and 'talk' in 'real-time'. You can participate in
organized conferences with special guests, drop in on our weekly Open
COnference, or simply join in on an impromptu chat session. Unlike
posting messages or Mail for other members to read at some later time,
everyone in the Conference area can see what you type immediately, and can
respond to you right away, in an 'electronic conversation'.
**********************************************************************
> Examining RISC STR Feature¿
==========================
RISC Computer Architecture
===========================
by Kevin Moody
ABSTRACT:
RISC, which stands for reduced instruction set computer, promises a
new generation of faster machines. This is possible by using a small set
of simple instructions. The trend has always been to build CISCs (complex
instruction set computers), which use many detailed instructions. However
more hardware has to be used, thus slowing down processing time.
Unfortunately, no universally accepted RISC design has been accepted.
Available RISC architectures cover a wide spectrum of strategies. The
most recently designed processors contain a mixture of reduced and complex
instruction sets. The debate still rages over what clearly defines RISC
architecture.
INTRODUCTION:
The purpose of this report is to examine RISC architecture -
weighing the benefits of the design, and compare some of the RISC based
processor packages on the market today. Most designs strive to attain
several common goals. Ideally, instruction sets should have fewer than 40
instructions, contain minimal address modes and instruction formats, and
using large register files one instruction can be executed in one clock
cycle. However, only load and store commands would access memory and would
require two clock cycles. The principles of understanding optimizing
compilers lead to the development of RISC. A RISC processor relies on a
compiler optimized to convert high-level instructions (with languages such
as C and Pascal) into sequences of low-level operations. This reduces the
control unit to occupy about 10% of the CPU area. Unlike CISC instruction
sets which monopolize valuable chip space causing high overhead costs, the
RISC based CPU has more room for larger cache, register files, pipeline
control circuitry, or a floating point unit. The true performance measure
of any micro-processor is the time it takes to complete a given task.
All processors or array of processors are compared by the following
criteria: The average number of clock cycles per instruction execution
(CPI), The duration of the clock cycle, and the amount of instructions
required to perform one task. All processors can increase their
performance by minimizing the duration of the clock cycle (increasing
clock rates). However, RISC automatically minimizes CPI with its large
register file and with minimal memory accesses.
RISC ARCHITECTURE:
As stated in the abstract their are many architectural strategies for
designing RISC. A simple RISC architecture will be examined with: Three
register file windows each containing 32 registers; instruction, data,
addresses, and registers widths all 32 bits long; and fast internal
pipelining.
The majority of the instructions operate on registers with the
exception of load and store which move data between memory and register.
Although the idea behind RISC is reduced instructions many subroutines are
performed to make up for its lack of complex instructions. Because
subroutines rely on branch or procedure call statements, the RISC register
window scheme makes the call operation as fast as possible. Entire
register windows are overlapped in a fashion to pass, save, and restore
registers to a calling procedure. Thus each procedure call results in a
new set of registers being allocated for use by that procedure. There is
also room for global registers R0 to R9, (used throughout a given program)
which are neither saved nor restored. As an example, for a given window,
the registers R10 to R31 are divided into three parts. Registers R10 to
R15 are for parameters to be passed to the called procedure. R16 to R25
are used for local scalar storage. Registers R26 to R31 contain parameters
passed from the calling procedure. Registers R10 to R15 and R26 to R31
have local registers depending on the size of the passing parameters. A
new set of registers (R10 to R31) is allocated on each call. The low
registers of the caller are required to become the high registers of the
called procedure. Thus, parameters are passed without moving information
along busses. Allocating variables in registers is handling the problem of
pointers. RISC gives addresses to the window registers and if a portion of
the address space is reserved a comparison is done to see whether an
address points to a register or to memory.
The instruction format for opcoding and addressing is broken down
into opcode(7), scc(1), dest(5), source1(5), imm(1), source2(13).
Notice the small width of the opcode. For register to register
instructions, source1 is copied to dest. If imm equals 1, then source2 is
regarded as a sign-extended 13-bit constant. imm is normally 0 because of
the frequency of integer use. scc determines whether condition codes are
set.
RISC depends more on the architecture of a fast internal pipeline
than on clock speed. Piping is necessary to keep the ALU processing
constantly. In a worst case, CISCs ALU is waiting on the buss for a
memory fetch. Stripping away interlocks and bubbles that cause pipeline
stalls yields another approach to RISC.
ESTABLISHED DESIGNS:
Many computer companies are running the race for designing RISC based or
hybrid based systems. The C100 Clipper was one of the first to become
popular. Motorola's MC88000 three-chip set is one of the fastest RISC
designs to date. Advanced Micro Design's Am29000 is a RISC design with
unusually large register file. The CY7C601 Sparc processor has a register
file consisting of 136 general purpose 32-bit register configured with
eight windows of 24 registers each. The first ECL RISC is being designed
by Bipolar Integrated Technology is expected to deliver 40 MIPS at 65MHz.
Although America has the lead on RISC design, other foreign countries are
waiting to see if the trend will set. Some current RISC based systems are
Current systems are rated below.
SYSTEM MIPS CLOCK(MHZ)
HP Spectrum 7 15
Motorola 88K 20 20
Clipper 13 33
AMD 29000 17 25
CONCLUSION:
RISC instruction sets allow incredibly fast theoretical speeds at one
instruction per cycle. But efficient memory management and optimizing
compilers are the real keys to RISC success. Although some critics view
RISC as a fad, the market is predicted to grow to $450 million by 1992.
RISC technology can provide enhanced performance and support new software
applications. The hardware development time is significantly less than
CISC processors, meaning lowered development cost and faster time to
market.
ref. Electronic Design (July 28)
Electronic Design (April 28)
Modern Computer Architecture
'Rafiquzzaman and Chandra'
_____________________________________________________________________
> DC - NEW GOODIES!! STR NewsPlus¿ Double Click unleashes "MORE POWER"!
===============================
DOUBLE CLICK'S AAA OFFERINGS
============================
by Ron Brunk
DoubleClick software will be releasing a series of new utility
programs next week at the Dallas WOA (World of Atari). One of these
programs, DCSquish, compresses executable files to an average of 71% of
the original size, a savings of 29%. In some cases the squished file is
even smaller than if arced. The new file includes a "loadpactor" (load
compactor) which loads the compacted file into memory, allowing it to
execute normally. While most files load too quickly to measure any
difference in execution time (at least without a stopwatch), series of
programs (like the auto file) and programs with measurable execution time
(like Pagestream - 7 seconds) boot just as fast when squished. Since the
loadpactor decodes the squished file and sends a copy of the "original" to
memory at execution, there is no change in memory used by the program. As
each file is squished, the original file is renamed filename.xyz and the
squished file is named filename.ext (ext=prg, ttp, tos, acc, as
appropriate) ready for use.
So far I've attempted to squish 111 files, 97 of which were successful
and saved me more than 880K in hardisk space. This represents just my
accessory and utility folders and a couple others at random, so that I
expect to more than double this number eventually. Should attempts to do
the same for other types of files (i.e. .rsc, .dat, .txt, etc.) the
savings will be phenomenal. The remaining 14 files that were not squished
were very small (less than 2-3K) and resulted in a "not compressed enough"
message.
95 of the 97 programs worked perfectly, although 4 of the 97 squished
programs (Control.acc, Red Lightning, and Stellar Crusade) had problems at
first with the new Pinhead 1.2 freeware program from Charles Johnson of
CodeHead Software. Briefly, Pinhead works this way: when TOS runs a
program, it usually takes time to clear all of the TPA (transient program
area) before the program runs. Even though this clearing process is not
guaranteed, some programs assume this will happen. Pinhead intercepts this
process and clears just the "BSS" (the ram area used by the program for
various tasks) plus an additional 16K, saving a great deal of time. This
is especially noticeable during the auto folder loading process during
bootup. Although Pinhead has the option to abort it's fastload, DCSquish
has an option that fixes this. The only squished program that wouldn't
run even with this option was Flash. In addition, while the squished
Quickview works with the BSS option, a small problem appears in which
screen redraws are not done under the mouse. In any event, if a program
does not work when squished, it can be unsquished to it's original
condition with no permanent modifications remaining.
The only other problems I had were:
1) Programs squished in the auto folder do not retain their original
order of execution and have to be re-sorted. This us unavoidable and no
big deal, really, unless you forget to note the proper order of execution.
2) Self modifying programs (i.e. MultiDesk) will not recognize
themselves in a squished format if you try to modify them. So unless you
never change them, it is probably not worth the few bytes you'd save since
you'd have to unsquish before modifying it each time.
Using the program is very easy. The opening screen gives you the 3
options, squish, unsquish, and info, all of which will bring up the file
selector from which to choose a file to:
1) Squish- the file will be squished, and an info screen will show the
original file size, the squished file size, % space saved, and the squish
version number. An unsuccessful squish will display a message to that
affect and return you to the opening screen with nothing changed. If a
file has already been squished, the program will inform you and again
return you to the opening screen. Just below the squish button is the BSS
sub-option for programs that have problems with Pinhead.
2) Unsquish- the file is unsquished to it's original state. The
squished file is renamed to filename.zyx, and the original is restored
with it's old name.
3) Info- the info screen is displayed for the file selected if it is a
squished file, otherwise it will exit to the opening screen.
Other DoubleClick software that will be making it's debut is:
1) DCRamdisk- A reset proof ram disk (accessory or program) that is
fast! It is specified to emulate a disk drive by specifying sides,
tracks, and sectors.
2) D_Ram_It- can save DCRamdisk to a disk drive as specified in the
ram disk set up (sides, tracks, sectors). It can also save all the files
on the ram disk as a single "image" file. This allows you to easily load
the same file setup (i.e. .prg and .rsc and .dat files) in one fell swoop.
3) DCXtract- An arc file extractor installed as a desk accessory, and
compatible with MultiDesk. It extracts files as fast as Dcopy (1/4 of the
time required by arc.ttp) because all operations are done in memory.
Although barebones at this time, features planned include:
a) Unarcing multiple files to individual folders, including sub-arcs
(arc files within the "root" arc) to sub-files (like arcit shell).
b) "Display" of all files within an arc file.
c) Extracting individual files from arc file. Choices will be made by
clicking with mouse on filenames in display screen.
d) Ability to read text files within an arc file without unarcing.
4) DCSea- converts an arc file (filename.arc) to a Self Extracting Arc
(SEA) file (filename.prg). Double clicking on the resulting file extracts
the arc file without the use of any other program, no other program
required. Although it doesn't have any bells and whistles, and uses an
extra 4646 bytes for the extractor, it is ideal for beginners files for
new users. I wish I'd had this the first time I came across an arc file,
and it had the arc utilities inside it. I still remember my frustration
as I tried double clicking, printing, renaming...
5) DCDskorg- a desktop organizer which converts desktop.inf files to
executable programs. Originally intended to quickly recall common window
set ups, the resulting programs allow you to load different desktops
corresponding to the source desktop.inf files without rebooting.
_____________________________________________________________________
> VIDIST STR Review¿ An in-depth view of vidi ST and its features.
=================
ST VIDEO GRAPHICS
=================
by R. Kindig
Requirements: Any Atari ST with at least 512K RAM, single-sided drive,
and color or mono monitor.
Composite input from VCR, TV, or Camcorder.
1 Meg RAM and color monitor recommended.
Introduction
------------
As the front of the manual states, Vidi-ST is a "video digitizer for
Atari ST computers." Having some brief experience with ST digitizers
through ownership of the Navarone video digitizer, I was rather soured on
the quality of such equipment for the ST. Imagine my surprise, then, when
I saw a demonstration of Vidi-ST at the Dearborn World of Atari in June!
I was so impressed that I immediately pulled out my plastic and purchased
one on the spot, even though I had not planned to buy anything remotely
like that when I attended the show.
Packaging
---------
The small Vidi-ST box contains the Vidi-ST cartridge, a non
copy-protected single-sided disk with the capture software, a cable with
an RCA-type plug on either end, a small 16-page stapled manual, and a
registration card. The registration card can be ignored, I was told,
because the manufacturer, ROMBO Productions, is based in Scotland. I
filled out an information card at the time of purchase and was told this
would be my registration. The manual is very brief, but fairly well
written. It contains a table of contents, instructions on setting up
Vidi-ST, a description of software features, and instructions about a
supplied machine code interface. It also contains a 1-page addendum dated
4/5/89 which talks about changes to the software for version 1.25. As it
turns out, the manual gets little use because the software is so easy to
use. However, it can be entertaining to read through the manual and see
the language differences between U.S. English and U.K. English. In
particular, some words are spelled differently. Also, some phrases sound
particularly odd to Americans. Some example of this are "ring for
details" rather than "call for details" or "straight away" instead of
"right away" or "immediately."
Setup
-----
The Vidi-ST cartridge is a small black box approx. 2 3/4 inches in
length, 2 1/2 inches in width, and 1 1/8 inches in depth. It contains a
cartridge port connector, a video input jack, and 3 adjustment controls
(for brightness, contrast, and scan frequency). To connect it, MAKE SURE
THE COMPUTER IS OFF and plug Vidi-ST into the cartridge port using (what
else?) the cartridge port connector.
This is where I ran into problems. First of all, I could not get the
cartridge to insert flush with the computer, even though the manual says
it should. I was afraid to push too hard, for fear I would damage the
cartridge or the computer (and my wallet!). Secondly, the cartridge
sticks out the side of the computer a long way. Due to limited space on
my computer desk (and a short hard drive cable), this forced me to unhook
my hard drive from the computer in order to pull it out further for
Vidi-ST. Also, Vidi-ST is just as hard to remove as it is to insert. My
greatest fear is that I will break the cartridge during insertion or
removal, but I can't leave it inserted because it sticks out so far.
Unfortunately, this means I won't be using Vidi-ST on a regular basis and
that I will have to make the most of each session that I use it. These
complaints aside, which are true in varying degrees for other cartridges
on a 520 or 1040, once the cartridge is inserted the rest of the setup is
pretty simple. Vidi-ST only works with a composite video source. This
means you can connect a VCR, TV, or camcorder to it. If using a VCR, or a
TV through a VCR, the supplied cable with RCA plugs on both ends will
suffice for the connection. Put one plug into the video out jack of the
composite source and the other end into the video input jack of Vidi-ST.
In the case of a camcorder, you may need a phono-BNC cable, which has an
RCA plug on one end and a BNC on the other. My camcorder came with such a
cable. At this point you are ready to turn the computer on. You may want
to boot up with few auto programs and accessories. The less memory made
available to the Vidi-ST software, the fewer screens you can capture
during the digitizing process. After bootup, you are ready to have some
fun!
Digitizing
----------
The software supplied with Vidi-ST is excellent, but has a few
limitations that I will detail later. Here are some of the more important
features of Vidi-ST:
- It can grab up to 30 frames per second with a color monitor (25
for European 50 Hz monitors, 35 for mono monitors) in 16 shades.
No still source is needed.
- The captured frames are stored in memory for later manipulation
or animation.
- Cut and paste can be performed between screens.
- A palette can be assigned to individual screens. Some palettes
are provided, or you can make your own. This means that although
Vidi-ST does not capture colors, only shades, you can provide a
palette to give a picture true-to-life colors.
- Analog and digital controls are provided to adjust brightness and
contrast.
- It is fully GEM-driven.
The supplied disk contains several files. There are 9 different
palettes which are loaded when the program starts up, a README file with
the most recent changes and information, the machine code interface
program for writing your own capture software, the main VIDI.PRG capture
software, a mono version called VIDIMONO.PRG, and some sample pictures and
palettes.
All of Vidi-STs features are accessed from the main screen. One of
the nicest features is the fact that most functions can be controlled any
one of 3 ways. First of all, there is a standard GEM menu bar at the top.
Drop down a menu and click on an item to access it. The second method for
many items is a parameter bar at the bottom of the screen. Some are
turned on or off by clicking the left button on that item, others are
adjusted by clicking on an up or down arrow next to the item. The third
method consists of a single keypress to initiate the item. These three
methods allow you to use whatever method you are most comfortable with. I
found the parameter bar easiest to use because I didn't have to remember
keystrokes or hunt for the item I wanted in the drop down menus.
To start grabbing pictures, there are several items you may want to adjust
first. I found the bootup defaults to be satisfactory for my purposes.
The first option is the grab mode. It can be set to RUN (grab multiple
frames), ONE (grab single frame), or SEE (shows the last frame stored in
the cartridge). The next item is the grab delay for setting the amount of
time between successive grabs in RUN mode. The units for this item are
dependent on the monitor type (color, European, or mono). Next,
brightness can be set in the software before or during grab or with a
small pot on the cartridge and contrast can be adjusted with a control
knob on the cartridge. I found the factory settings to be acceptable.
Once everything is set the way you want it, click on grab on the parameter
bar (or on the menu bar, or press the 'G' key). What follows is the fun
part!
Turn on your video source. A very short delay will occur while
Vidi-ST is synchronizing with the input. Suddenly, the screens will
appear in real time on the monitor just as if you were watching them on a
TV set. These are the digitized pictures. They are continuously captured
to memory in a round-robin style. That is, the last 25 frames (on a 1 Meg
machine, 9 on a 512K machine, >25 on a larger machine) will be in memory
when the grab is stopped. Press the space bar to stop grabbing.
Click on SCRN on the parameter bar or choose SELECT from the OPTIONS
menu and 16 screens at once from those captured will show in a reduced
format. You can page through any remaining screens by clicking on an up
or down arrow. Click on a picture to expand it back to full-screen size
and to make it the current screen. An alternate method is to toggle
through the screen numbers on the parameter bar and click on 'V' to view
it.
Many capabilities are available at this point to manipulate the
captured screens. For instance, an animation mode will play back the
screens at rapid speed, which can be quite humorous if the object is a
person performing an act such as scratching his nose. Cut and paste
operations between screens can be performed. Palettes can be saved or
loaded. Pictures can be loaded or saved in NEO or DEGAS format. A simple
slideshow function is available for viewing the pictures in memory. A
window can be defined on a screen and additional grabbing can be done
which will only update inside or outside (at your option) the window. A
clipboard can be defined for copying portions of pictures into. Screens
can locked so that additional grabs will not overwrite those screens. As
you can see, the software for Vidi-ST is flexible enough on its own to
qualify as a decent graphics manipulation program.
Limitations
-----------
As flexible as the software is, there are some glaring limitations.
For instance, the print option for printing captured pictures is not yet
functional. This requires you to load the saved picture into another
program for printing. Also, future versions of the program are supposed
to support the IMG picture format, but version 1.25 does not. Another
major limitation is the fact that you cannot save or load groups of
pictures, only individual ones. If you desire to save all 25 pictures on
a 1 Meg machine as an animation, you must go through the save process 25
times, each time incrementing the current screen number. The first 2
items are supposed to be corrected in future versions, the third was not
mentioned anywhere, so it's not known whether it will be implemented.
The other major area of software limitations will be of interest to
monochrome monitor users. Vidi-ST cannot currently be recommended to
these people. Many features of the software simply are not available.
The only features which can be used are grab, brightness control and
saving and loading pictures in DEGAS .PI3 format. When the grab function
is used, garbage appears on the bottom of the screen. Also, grabs are
very slow, with approx. 1 second between grabs. This is dramatically
slower than on a color monitor. The reason for this is that the cartridge
actually captures in low res format and the software has to convert every
picture to high res before displaying it.
Summary
-------
Vidi-ST is an excellent, real-time video digitizer for the Atari ST.
The quality of the digitized pictures is as good or better than those
requiring a still frame. The software supplied is very powerful, but has
some limitations. Some of these limitations should be corrected in future
versions. Quality of support is unknown at this time because the
manufacturer, ROMBO Productions, is based in Scotland. This could cause
difficulties in getting support.
____________________________________________________________________
> MAXWELL C.P.U. STReport InfoFile¿ The "New Kids on the block!"
================================
MaxWell C.P.U.
(Computer Products Unlimited)
Located in Lafayette, Colorado, on the Front Range of the Rocky
Mountains and eight miles east of Boulder, Colorado, MaxWell C.P.U. is one
of two companies founded by Tim Reyes and Mikel Cawthon. They are quite
enthusiastic ST developers and a ST based Graphics company - MaxWell
Graphics and Publications.
The name MaxWell was taken from the name of the physicist which
developed Electro-magnetic theory - James Clerk Maxwell. Over the last
hundred years, it has been theorists like Maxwell and experimentalists
like Tesla that have lead the world into the computer-communications age.
MaxWell C.P.U. has depends upon the team work of Mike Cawthon, the DTP
specialist, Mark Cawthon, the main programmer, and Tim Reyes, concept
developer and team leader. We have attracted a second ST programmer, Doug
Dosheen, giving MaxWell two assembly and three GEM-C programmers. We are
hard at work on a new utility for the ST and a new hardware product both
of which will make all Atari ST computers more productive machines. And as
far as GOGO ST is concerned, "you ain't seen nuthin yet"! They are
completing work on a new version that will certainly offer stiff
competition both NeoDesk and HotWire. And, at the same time, be a
savings to you. We are very excited about the new software development
programs in place at MaxWell C.P.U. Inc.
MaxWell Graphics and Publications is a desktop publishing and offset
print shop. In association with freelance graphical artist, Sharon
Solomon, they are a complete graphical design company. The print shop is
well equipped with a Multilith 1250 offset press, a 36 inch paper cutter,
and a complete set of bindery equipment.
The very professional layout equipment includes a Mega 4 ST with 134
meg of storage, a 2.5 meg 1040 with 42 meg storage , a 520, an Atari
SLM804 with Ultrascript and a HP Scanjet. Additionally, Maxwell also uses
a 286 12 Mhz machine as a daytime BBS and at night as an IBM based desktop
publishing machine.
This is a very turbulent year for Atari's products. Hopefully, Atari
will more than just pull through and raise its product line and product
support a step or two closer to the Gang of Two - IBM & Apple. MaxWell
C.P.U. will be bringing you more outstanding products to enhance the
value of the Atari ST. The good folks at Maxwell are very conscious of
the value of good customer support. They have assured us that they will
develop a great customer support system as well. Keep a sharp lookout for
all the NEW MaxWell Products!
For more Info, please contact:
MaxWell C.P.U.
507 W. Baseline
Lafayette, CO 80026
Voice: (303)665-4849(8AM-5PM)
BBS: (303)666-447 (8AM-8PM)
__________________________________________________________________
> Neil Harris STR Feature¿ Is Neil Harris a legendary Atari figurehead?
=======================
Neil Harris; Another Look
=========================
"A warning, to all who would hold the messenger liable
for the news he brings....
be forever fair, hold accountable the source".
by R.F. Mariano
Most all the users who grew up with an Atari of one type or another in
front of them remember Neil Harris. The older users who ascended from the
eight bit machines to the 16 bit machines most definitely remember Neil.
I know he is very well known and easily remembered around these parts.
The reasons for this article could be listed ..however, once the article
was begun, it became apparent that a candid approach would be much better.
Going back almost two years ago, we found Neil in the heyday of his
career as the VOICE of Atari. Well, actually, he was (it seemed) their
"chief cook and bottle washer". At this point in time, Neil seemed to
relish the thought of handling the broad spectrum of duties and
responsibilities assigned to him. In fact, another person in his office
at the time, Sandy Austin, and Neil made for a remarkable team. A point
many of us failed to realize was that Atari was signing the "paychecks"
and therefore had the final say-so. As a rather outspoken critic of Neil
Harris we, on more than occasion, took him severely to task for various
statements he made relative to Atari, it's products and future, little did
we know that this was exactly what he was told to say.
In fact, according to a rather sensitive source, Neil was, on more
than one occasion given certain release information on a Friday (for
example) and ..by Monday, the story was totally different as far as the
company was concerned. The tragic part is; Neil was not kept abreast of
the latest developments thus, resulting in all the controversy surrounding
"his" information.
Towards the end of his tenure it was becoming evident that he had lost
interest in trying to improve the situation. He was growing tired of the
lack of forward movement, otherwise, why would he be the "GemStone" Champ
at various shows? Spring Comdex at Atlanta was a perfect example of how
Neil was given information for release to the userbase that was, destined
to become a nightmare, remember the Online Conference? He was given the
information that TOS 1.4 would be released by that Fall. We all know the
outcome of that situation. We are STILL waiting for TOS 1.4! Again, he
was given this information by the company. In our humble opinion, whether
or not this was done in good faith really does not matter, when the facts
changed, Neil was left to face the music alone. Along came the press,
ourselves included, and literally 'pasted' Neil to the wall.
A lasting, unhappy impression was made. How well we remember
conversations with Neil while he was still in California. He was
extremely tense and guarded in his conversations and his lack of patience
and understanding was more than very evident to most who knew him. His
attitude at that time reflected the tremendous pressure he was under.
From himself, Atari, and the userbase. And now, after a recent and
lengthy conversation with Neil, we find he is a totally different person.
This fact, coupled with the information now known, has led to this article
and the following statement; With the unerring benefit of very clear
hindsight, we find it right and proper to offer Neil a sincere apology for
having thought, mistakenly, that he was responsible for much of the
misinformation and vapor for which we took him to task. We also wish to
congratulate him for probably being one of the few who was able to tough
it out for so long under the "expert leadership" at Atari....
In the weeks and months to come we must continually remind ourselves
that the Atari folks who get online and try to help keep the signals clear
are, in most cases, going about this on their own. Sure, Atari tells 'em
what the limits of revelation are, but surely, they are not permitted to
do these things online during company time. Have you ever looked at the
post times? Reportedly, ever since the days of Commodore, the end user
support picture has consistantly taken a back seat as far as the Tramiels
are concerned. Comes now people like John and all the "online people" who
are making all the 'right moves' to dispel this impression and we thank
them for it. At the same time we entreat the users and remind ourselves
not to hold them directly responsible for the lack of, or the erroneous
information Atari may send our way.....
___________________________________________________________________
> BLOODWYCH DEMO! STReport OnLine¿ J. Mesa, tells all -> BloodWych.
===============================
ctsy; GEnie RT
BLOODWYCH, A NEW CHALLENGE!
===========================
by J.M.MESA
I recently picked up the August issue of ST Format magazine. To
my surprise included in the magazine was a review of BLOODWYCH by
Mirrorsoft. Not only did it have a review, but also it included a fully
playable demo of the new FRP. To say that the game looks and plays
incredibly is an immense understatement. It received a 95% rating as well
as an ST Format gold software award(reserved for those truly exceptional
games). What follows are some first hand impressions of the game.
Character selection-- Each player(two players can play simultaneously)
selects from a pool of 16 pre-generated characters one character. This
character is your leader and he/she can move about and recruit as many
as three other characters. The 16 selectable characters come in four
classes: fighter, thief, mage, adventurer. As an example here are four
characters(one from each class) along with their stats.
-- Zastaph Mantric-> Strength-18 Agility-23 Intelligence-31 Charisma-19
Hit Points-17 Vitality-25 Spell Points-19
Starting Spell-Armor-->Magic User
-- Sir Edward Lion-> Strength-33 Agility-26 Intelligence-14 Charisma-13
Hit Points-32 Vitality-28 Spell Points-7
Starting Spell-Missile-->Fighter
-- Mr. Flay Sepulc-> Strength-13 Agility-32 Intelligence-20 Charisma-11
Hit Points-20 Vitality-99 Spell Points-10
Starting Spell-Deflect-->Thief
-- Sethra Bhoaghai-> Strength-23 Agility-18 Intelligence-18 Charisma-36
Hit Points-24 Vitality-26 Spell Points-9
Starting Spell-Armor-->Adventurer
Once each player has selected his leader the game begins. Each
character has his own starting location in the castle, so if you want to
get together you have to arrange meeting at some location.
Interaction--As your single character moves about(accomplished via a
very similar method as Dungeonmaster) he can meet up with various
characters. Your options when you come upon someone are either to
communicate or attack.
If you chose to communicate the following options are given: Recruit,
Identify (who goes?,thy trade?,name self?,reveal self?),Inquiry(folk
lore,magic items, persons,objects),Whereabouts(of a previously spoken
person,item,or location.
For example, you may communicate then ask the character to identify
his trade to which he/she might reply "I am a noble warrior" or "I don't
speak to maggots",etc. The ability to recruit someone or even talk to
someone seems to depend on the leader's charisma and class. Other options
that can be used with character encounters include trading (bestow,
purchase, exchange, sell), smalltalk (praise, curse, boast, retort), bribe
(with gold), and threaten.
Interface--As I mentioned before the look and feel of the interface is
very much like Dungeonmaster, except for the fact that the screen is split
horizontally in two for each player's view.
Clicking on stats brings up the load/save,sleep,pause icons as well as
the communications menu. Clicking on spell book allows you to flip
through the spell pages and examine/cast learned spells. Clicking on
status display icon brings up a screen showing your various stats.
Clicking on inventory brings up graphic display of your items and
tells you your current armor class. Movement is achieved by clicking on
the movement arrows makes you step forward, back, turn left, turn right,
side step left, and side step right. It is also possible to move via
the keyboard (player 1- uses the arrow keys, player 2- uses several other
keys). I should mention that the interface is a joystick based movement
of a GEM-like arrow icon(two players two joysticks). To switch leader you
click on one of four leader switch icons.
Combat is accomplished by positioning your party directly in front of
the monster/character and clicking on the fight icon. At this point, your
leader will attack with his currently equipped weapon. Damage received or
bestowed is briefly flashed on the screen.
The spell system is very nice. You start out with certain spells and
you must find the others. Casting a spell requires a certain number of
spell points(the more you cast a spell the better you get at casting it).
It is also possible to put more than the minimum number of spell points
into a spell to make the chance of casting it better.
The graphics and the interface are SUPERB, particularly considering
the fact that two parties can be off in completely different areas
attacking monsters, exploring, etc.
Editor Note:
The Demo of this game is in widespread circulation, and we highly
recommend your obtaining it for your personal evaluation. We agree with
the author, the composition and quality are superb. Bloodwych belongs in
your library.
_____________________________________________________________________
> DOUBLE CLICK STR FOCUS¿ Double Click " On the Move...."
======================
PRESS RELEASE
-------------
Double Click Software Reveals New Wares
=======================================
If you have enjoyed the software already produced by Double Click
Software:
SHADOW DC FORMATTER DC STUFFER
MYSTIC DC CLOCK DC DESKEY DC-PORT
Then, you will most certainly not be disappointed by the releases planned
for the World of Atari show next weekend in Dallas.
Double Click Software will be in booth 101, so be sure to stop by and
visit them, Michael B. Vederman, Paul Lee, Gilbert Callaghan, and Keith
Gerdes.
Now, for a preview of what is in store for the ST userbase.
In the hardware arena, DCS will be showing a prototype of DC-TALK, a
high speed serial cartridge which will allow for the connection of the ST
to AppleTalk networks. Once Gadgets by Small has added support for
DC-TALK into the Spectre 128, you will have a MacClone that can talk to
other Macs via the AppleTalk network.
The first step in providing connectivity for the Atari ST series, DCS
also plans to implement a file server using DC-TALK, perhaps even the
AppleTalk protocol on the ST, although no details were given at this time.
DCS will also have the DC-PORT serial expansion port cartridge available.
In the software arena, DCS will have available their SHAREWARE disk
which includes DC FORMATTER, DC STUFFER, MYSTIC, DC CLOCK, DC XTRACT and
DC DESKEY. They will also have their amazing SHADOW background file
transfer program for sale.
In addition to the above titles, DCS will have a new utilities disk
which has an abundance of useful tools which you will find necessary to
increase your productivity. On the utilities disk will be:
- DC SQUISH -
SQUISH executable programs *and* desk accessories while still maintaining
the ability to execute the programs. DC SQUISH has a super fast algorithm
which allows the files to be loaded and executed without a slowdown. In
fact, floppy based users will reduce loading time! DC SQUISH supports the
new TOS 1.4 fast bit.
- DC DESKEY 2.0 -
Allows for the assignment of key-strokes to any GEM program drop down menu
items. Now you can execute a menu command with a press of a key, instead
of grabbing the mouse and selecting the appropriate menu and entry. All
menu items are completely editable and key assignable. Not only that, but
DC DESKEY 2.0 is the only desk accessory to have a *true* working menu bar
(no imitation).
- DC RAMIT & DC RAMDISK -
The fastest RAMDISK bar none. In addition, this program/accessory allows
you to configure a RAMDISK to 'look' just like a floppy disk, and you can
even save the image of the RAMDISK to a file, for super fast loading of
files into the RAMDISK.
Great for copying disks too (next to DC FORMATTER, that is!).
- DC SEA -
Create Self Extracting ARC files. That's right, run a program that
extracts its own contents. Allows you to take a verbose listing of the
contents or extract the contents to any path.
- DC DESK ORGANIZER -
Create an executable DESKTOP.INF file. You can change the way the desktop
looks by running a program. Especially useful with CodeHead's HotWire!
Change the desktop with the press of a key, or have one window open with
your DC DESK ORGANIZER programs in it, and change the desktop with a
double click.
And if that is not enough, DCS will be showing a preview of the upgrade to
their popular DC FORMATTER. The new program, DC FORMATTER AUTO, will
install in the AUTO folder, and will allow you to replace the DESKTOP's
formatter. In other words, click on drive A: then choose 'FORMAT...' from
the menu, and DC FORMATTER AUTO pops up. DC FORMATTER AUTO will also be
able to be called up from within programs.
And, finally, DCS will be showing their soon to be released hard drive
utility BackRest+ which offers extensive, intelligent hard disk backups,
as well as direct DMA/SCSI hard disk tools.
Stop by booth 101 and see what other 'wears' Double Click Software has in
store for you. We think you will be surprised and excited.
Editor Note: ......'Wears'? Hmmm, I've heard of wares and warez but
wears??? The guys at DCS are making a giant leap forward in development
and support for the ST marketplace, it is now up to us to support them by
showing our confidence in their products...
___________________________________________________________________
> CANADA FIRST! STReport OnLine¿ Again, Canada leads the way...
=============================
Sent : Aug 10, 1989 at 12:05 AM
To : SYSOP
From : STEVE BARNES
Subj : TOS 1.4 Confirmation
To the Editor - STReport: Aug. 9/1989
A few issue's back, you printed an unconfirmed rumour that TOS 1.4
had been put to chip and was supposed to be shipping in the new MEGA ST
DTP publishing packages.
This is letter is to confirm the existence of TOS 1.4 currently being
shipped on the new Mega DTP systems available in Canada.
---====** TOS 1.4 is on CHIP and being SHIPPED! **====---
One of the members of SASTUG (Sudbury Atari ST Users Group) has just
returned from picking up his MEGA 4/Laser DTP combination. Apparently
just hours after the first shipments arrival in Canada. Needless to say I
beat a path in a hurry over to his house after he mentioned that the
dialog boxes "looked odd". I've just returned and can say without out a
doubt that it is worth the wait. The improvement in speed is more than
apparent and the additional features all work! With TurboST 1.6 it is
downright *SPOOKY*, I'd love to try this with one of the new accelerators!
By the way, here is a new one to add to your list. While formatting
a blank disk to copy HDX3.01 onto (I just picked up a new 3053 <GRIN>). I
notice that the format dialog box has an un-released feature (NOT BUG!)
You may now copy a disk to an unformatted disk.. ala' MS-DOS's Diskcopy
function. TOS will now format the disk while copying!!
After months of speculation on Atari's sincerity, I can say that this
is the first step to realizing the promises made in the past 2 years!
Sincerely,
Steve Barnes (President SASTUG)
Sudbury Ont. Canada.
FIDO (1:222/40.1)
P.S. Permission is granted to post my name and title if you decide to
include this confirmation in STReport.
THANKS for _your_ continuing support of our favourite machine!
"90% of a project takes 90% of the time, the final 10% takes 90%
of the time!"
_______________________________________________________________
> The Bottom Line STR FOCUS¿ A sign of things to come??
==========================
ctsy; GEnie RT
USERBASE UNREST
===============
Editor Note:
The following two messages are included here for all to see because we
felt what has been said in them is predominantly what we are finding all
across the nation. With Atari itself playing head games with the userbase
by it's overuse of the "SILENT TREATMENT", a lack of a positive flow of
information coupled with the continued delays of minor and major product
releases, the frustration level of the userbase is approaching the danger
marks. And of course, add in the backstab of a major software publisher
attempting to ring a death bell for us, (Spectrum Holobyte), it becomes
very easy to see why the once "energetically enthusiastic" userbase is
becoming increasingly 'restless'.
Message One
-----------
Somewhere, in all of this I detect a 'generational' shift. From what
I can gather, Atari Directors will not miss the 'old generation' of ST
users (let alone 8bit 'kids' who are, or course, very expendable 'cause
they are always being replaced by new kids) in the least.
The Dave Smalls and Charles Johnsons (and T Hudson's etc.) will
naturally rise to more powerful heights and the Gotham City Enthusiasts
(aka 'disk traders' (my apologies to those straight-and-narrow guys who
buy all of their stuff)) will be left to piece together their systems as
they see fit in accordance with their desire to be socially or technically
with it.
In other words, the ST has been written off, though not removed from
the assembly line, * conceptually * and replaced with new high and low end
machines. From a marketing standpoint, it would be very limiting for the
Directors to identify with current ST users when the whole Company has
already shifted behind new product lines.
_Maybe_ the community of TT and ATW users will be similiar to the
current rather fragmented US group of ST users, but then again, its more
likely that we're looking at two quite different species of consumer
animals. I don't think Atari Directors know just what sort of Marketing
Leaders they need. It's a process.
In any case, the hackers will keep up just fine on their own, and
Atari * will * soidify its new look-and-feel as their new line takes over,
with the resultant community and all I/Os with that community marking a
whole new generation of Atari Users.
'Least that's how I read it.....Dai Le'on
Message Two
-----------
Just read this entire topic in one sitting. The reason I read it is
because I finally find myself getting fed up with Atari after several
years of patience during which it would not have occurred to me to read a
topic critical of Atari. As many others have expressed, I love my ST. I
am involved with my ST. I have been an unabashed fan and done my part to
spread the word about it. But at last, I am out of steam.
To put any more money in it at this time seems stupid--unless there
are some hopeful developments that add up to some indication of dynamism
in the company. It is hard for me to understand how a company could have
such an initially enthusiastic customer base and drop the ball so
effectively. It almost seems like masochism. I have the creepy feeling
that me and my ST are in a cul-de-sac. I am sad about it. I am sad about
Atari.
I wish them (Atari) good fortune and still say they have a basically
good product. But I have become cautious and am not willing to send more
money down the tube to never-never land.
Maybe, things will change?
Thanks for this category and the opportunity to express my frustration.
M. Wolfman
An observation;
Reading the above almost brings me to tears of anger and frustration.
Ninety percent of the user unrest could have easily been avoided if the
upper crust at Atari would have paid attention to all the signals sent
their way last year, instead they chose to blow it all off as sour grapes
or, at best, the old; "ignore it and it will go away". Will Atari's
executives EVER learn to listen to the users, and PRODUCE for them what
THEY want and not what Atari THINKS the users want??? It's doubtful...
___________________________________________________________________
> Atari Stock ~ STReport¿
======================
THE TICKERTAPE
==============
by Glenn Gorman
Atari Stock dropped 3/8 of a point on Tuesday, up 1/4 on Wednesday,
down 1/4 on Thursday and 1/8 on Friday. Finishing up the week at 8 1/4
points. Down 1/2 of a point from last Friday.
Glenn Gorman
+---------------------+
| ATARI STOCK WATCH |
| Week 07-31 to 08-04 |
+=======+==========+===========+=============+============+=============+
| | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
+-------+----------+-----------+-------------+------------+-------------+
| Sales | 1359 | 1897 | 626 | 887 | 407 |
+-------+----------+-----------+-------------+------------+-------------+
| Last | 8 3/4 | 8 3/8 | 8 5/8 | 8 3/8 | 8 1/4 |
+-------+----------+-----------+-------------+------------+-------------+
| Chg. | ---- | -3/8 | +1/4 | -1/4 | -1/8 |
+=======+==========+===========+=============+============+=============+
| From > THE CAVE ST BBS <> 609-882-9195 <> 300/14400 HST <> F-NET #351 |
+=======================================================================+
Editor Note: Please pay attention to the dates of the Stock Report.. The
latest info we have show Atari on the climb again, probably due to the the
new products about to be released at the DUSSELDORF show.....
____________________________________________________________________
> ST REPORT CONFIDENTIAL¿ Telling it like it is....
======================
- Sunnyvale, CA. ***** GENLOCK BEING DEVELOPED FOR 68030 *****
--------------
The "Phantom" 68030 machine IS in the hands of the developer mentioned
last week for the main purpose of refined development of the Genlock
circuitry and associated programming. Our highly placed source of
accurate information has verified that fact and the fact that we were
correct in our initial report. He expressed the idea that Atari ought to
be glad someone has shown that they are trying to co-operate with
developers to the "nteenth" degree. Or, could it be they are attempting
to get the genlock worked into the release version of the 68030 machine?
- New York City, NY ***** GERMANY <FIRST> ...AGAIN??!!?? *****
-----------------
Look for the Atari wizards to DEBUT the 68030 computer later this
month. This machine is designed to run the Unix operating system, and will
be called the Atari TT. This all new computer from Atari will be
introduced ** Aug. 25 ** at an Atari-specific show in Dusseldorf, West
Germany. Again, according to our well placed sources, it is reliably said
that the 16-MHz TT will run Unix V.3 and the TOS operating system from
Atari. "At first, the machine will have the TOS operating system
available by itself, but the Unix software should be ready within 90
days".
The machine should be ready for shipment sometime in September, of
course depending upon FCC approval." Besides the 68030 microprocessor,
the system will have a floating point 68881 math co-processor along with 4
mb of RAM and a variety of video modes, including a 640-by-480 pixel and
1280-by-960 monochrome mode, the wire service reports. The machine is
reported to have a retail price of about $1,900.
- San Francisco, CA **** SAM TRAMIEL SEZ TOS 1.4 IS AVAILABLE! ****
-----------------
In the most recent issue of STart magazine, the 'main man' at Atari
has, during an interview, stated "TOS 1.4 is generally available". Why
then, if a user calls his dealer he is told "It ain't out yet"?? We are
told, by users, that certain dealers across the country are selling TOS
1.4 at this time. Our question is simple, what is going on here, we are
told by "responsible people" at Atari that TOS 1.4 is not in a state of
release, yet the Head man at Atari tells us it is....what gives? Is this
the very type of occurance that happened to Neil Harris _repeatedly_ until
it fried him?
- New York City, NY ***** ST PLUS, THE ENHANCED ST *****
-----------------
Further words on the this 'mystery' machine....It appears that the CPU
in this suped up "Amiga Killer" is alleged to be the 680??. Also it is to
appear in the late fall, boasting of 8 voices (stereo) and 4096 colors.
The big news is this unit is supposed to be configurable by the dealers
from 1 to 4 mb. STReport suggested a dealer configurable machine well
over 5 months ago, and most folks said we would never see it.....
- Chatsworth, CA **** PIRACY IS NOT THE MAIN REASON!!! ****
--------------
Software sales is down, those pirates are doing it! So sez another
misinformed executive of a software publishing house. First of all, it's
the summer... second, because the software for the last three months
(except for a few creative authors) has been an excercise in mediocrity.
The ST userbase demands a great deal more in quality and reliablity than
surface thin gimmicks. Piracy takes it's toll, we don't deny this, but
the lackluster releases of late are the roots of a slow and horrible
death.
- San Diego, CA *** Spectrum Holobyte - Obvious by it's SILENCE ***
-------------
Gilman Louie, CEO of SH, who cleaned the Atari userbase's clock with a
hate letter of magnanomous proportions, recently assured the Atari users
attending an online conference that he would sent another letter to all
those who received his accusatory letter. That was over six weeks ago, to
date there has been no letter or statement. Does the silence mean he is
too busy to right this wrong? We hope to hear from him in the next few
weeks. We are sure he can take a few moments away from his 'busy'
schedule. After all, he had the time to send out the hate mail........
_______________________________________________________________
> STReport InfoFile¿ High Quality, Custom constructed hard drives....
=================
ABCO COMPUTER ELECTRONICS INC.
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Jacksonville, Florida 32236-6672
Est. 1985
_________________________________________
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_________________________________________
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_____________________________________
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____________________________________________________________________
> A "Quotable Quote"¿
=================
An executive, whispering to another exec about a loyal employee...
"I'll LIE ABOUT IT ..AND HE'LL SWEAR TO IT!!"
....Moron's Morals
"ATARI IS BACK!"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
ST-REPORT¿ Issue #100 "Your Independent News Source" August 11, 1989
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED ½ copyright 1989
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Views, Opinions and Articles Presented herein are not necessarily those of
the editors, staff, ST Report¿ or CPU Report¿. Reprint permission is
hereby granted, unless otherwise noted. All reprints must include ST
Report or CPU Report and the author's name. All information presented
herein is believed correct, STReport or CPU Report, it's editors and staff
are not responsible for any use or misuse of information contained herein.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
