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Silicon Times Report Issue 0645
*---== ST REPORT ONLINE MAGAZINE ==---*
"""""""""""""""""""""""""
"The Original 16/32bit Online Magazine"
_____________________________________
from
STR Publishing Inc.
""""""""""""""""""
November 09, 1990 No.6.45
=======================================================================
STReport Online Magazine¿
Post Office Box 6672
Jacksonville, Florida
32205 ~ 6672
R.F. Mariano
Publisher - Editor
_________________________________________
Voice: 904-783-3319 10 AM - 4 PM EDT
BBS: 904-786-4176 USR/HST DUAL STANDARD
FAX: 904-783-3319 12 AM - 6 AM EDT
_________________________________________
** F-NET NODE 350 ** 500mb Online **
STR'S owned & operated support BBS
carries ALL issues of STReport Online Magazine
and
AN INTERNATIONAL LIST OF PRIVATE BBS SYSTEMS
carrying STReport Online Magazine for their users enjoyment
__________________________________________________________________
> 11/09/90: STReport¿ #6.45 The Original 16/32 bit Online Magazine!
-------------------------
- The Editor's Desk - COMDEX Preview - CPU MacNews
- SEURAT 2.0!!! - IBM PS/1 - STe RE-EXAMINED!
- CODEHEAD UTILITIES - Toshiba LapTop - FIREFIGHT!!
- WP Update 11/1/90 - CANADA SHIPS TT! - STR Confidential
* ATARI ELITE UG RECIEVES APOLOGY! *
* ATARI'S NEW PRODUCTS! *
* ATARI EMULATOR "MEDUSA" TO DEBUT IN USA! *
==========================================================================
ST REPORT ONLINE MAGAZINE¿
The _Number One_ Online Magazine
-* FEATURING *-
"Accurate UP-TO-DATE News and Information"
Current Events, Original Articles, Hot Tips, and Information
Hardware - Software - Corporate - R & D - Imports
==========================================================================
STReport's support BBS, Node # 350 invites systems using or Forem ST and
Turbo Board BBS to participate in the Fido/F-Net Mail Network. Or, call
Node 350 direct at 904-786-4176, and enjoy the excitement of exchanging
information relative to the Atari ST computer arena through an excellent
International ST Mail Network. All registered F-NET - Crossnet SysOps are
welcome to join the STReport Crossnet Conference. The Crossnet Conference
Code is #34813, and the "Lead Node" is # 350. All systems are most
welcome to actively participate. Support Atari Computers; Join Today!
==========================================================================
AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY ON: GENIE ~ CIS ~ DELPHI ~ BIX ~ F-NET
==========================================================================
> The Editor's Podium¿
Ok, so its the weekend before Comdex, and "not a creature was
stirring,".. er ah,....no wait! Wrong story, wrong time of the year! Is
it really though? Aren't all of us waiting ever so patiently to discover
what the NEW is going to be from Atari? Granted, Christmas it isn't but
the anxiety for some of us is just as high. What with the "rumors" of the
16Mhz Mega STe with a nifty, built in hard disk and a VME port being
housed in a TT look-a-like cabinet being just a few of the neat "revelati-
ons" coming our way from Comdex how can we not be excited?
Could it be the Bundle discount STe deal is still a viable entity?
Will we see the bottom end of the line in the discount houses thus,
ensuring and rapid growth rate in the userbase? Hope so. Maybe we will
see that new neato 16bit fully dedicated game machine too. Along with the
new monitors and SLM 605, Atari will have a very nice show going for
itself at Comdex....
My little birdie has yet to fail me, elsewhere in this issue are SOME
of the new products and their prices (list). Comdex will prove to be a
very exciting show for Atari enthusiasts as it will reveal that Atari is
alive and well.
Thanks for your support!!
Ralph......
WATCH FOR OUR SPECIAL COMDEX CORRESPONDANT'S REPORT AND SUMMARY
***********************************************************************
NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE
FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
COMPUSERVE WILL PRESENT $15.00 WORTH OF COMPLIMENTARY ONLINE TIME
to the Readers of;
STREPORT ONLINE MAGAZINE¿
""""""""""""""""""""""""
"The Original 16/32bit Online Magazine"
NEW USERS; SIGN UP TODAY!
CALL: 1-800-848-8199 .. Ask for operator 198
You will receive your complimentary time
and
be online in no time at all!
WHAT'S NEW IN THE ATARI FORUMS (Nov. 9)
ADDITIONAL VENDORS JOIN ATARI VENDORS FORUM
Please join us in welcoming MAXWELL CPU to the Atari Vendors Forum (GO
ATARIVEN). MAXWELL CPU will be occupying Message Section 6 and Library 6.
You can address messages for MAXWELL to User ID number [75300,674]
The following files are now available in Library 6 of ATARIVEN:
MAXWEL.TXT - Maxwell CPU Company Overview
PROD.TXT - A catalog of products from MAXWELL CPU
We're also happy to welcome Double Click software to the Atari Vendors
Forum. Double Click will be occupying Message Section 13 and Library 13
in ATARIVEN. You can write to them at User ID number 75300,577.
CALAMUS OUTLINE ART CONTEST WINNERS
ISD Marketing has uploaded CNTST.ARC to Library 17 of the Atari Vendors
Forum (GO ATARIVEN). This file contains the four winning entries in the
Calamus Outline Art contest and a fifth entry which earned Honorable
mention.
NOVEMBER EDITION OF START ONLINE
Enter GO START to read over this month's edition of START ONLINE. New
features include: Software Shelf, articles on MIDI and the ST, User Group
Listing updates, new reviews, and more.
Lawrence Estep will be continually updating START ONLINE's User Group
listings. Please send any updates and/or corrections to Lawrence at User
ID number 71450,1050.
NEW PORTFOLIO MESSAGE SECTION AND LIBRARY
We've established Message Section 16 and Library 16 in the Atari Portfolio
Forum (GO APORTFOLIO) for New Product Announcements relating to the
Portfolio.
NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE
***********************************************************************
> CPU REPORT¿
==========
Issue # 90
----------
by Michael Arthur
CPU MacNews¿
===========
MAC MUSIC, $200 MILLION, AND APPLE CORPS VS. APPLE COMPUTER
-----------------------------------------------------------
Apple Corps. Ltd (the Beatles' recording company) filed a trademark
suit against Apple in February 1989, charging that Apple had violated a
1981 agreement between itself and Apple Corps. While this agreement
allowed Apple Computer to use the Apple Logo (which had been previously
trademarked by Apple Corps), it prohibited Apple from producing products
that could synthesize music. However, the Apple Macintosh is now a leader
in the MIDI music industry, with Apple making a MIDI Manager Toolbox for
its System Software. Also, the recently announced Mac LC and Mac IIsi
have a built in sound digitizer chip that could easily be used for
synthesizing music.
Apple Corps. is asking for an injunction against sales of all Apple
computers that violate the agreement, and for royalties on past sales of
such computers. Apple Computer has denied Apple Corps' charges, saying
that the lawsuit violates European antitrust laws. However, if Apple
Corps wins its lawsuit, Apple Computer may have to pay up to $200 million
in royalties to Apple Corps, and may have to stop selling much of the
Macintosh line of computers.
> CPU STATUS REPORT¿
=================
- Austin, TX MOTOROLA UNVEILS WIRELESS LOCAL AREA NETWORK
----------
Motorola has recently introduced an RF (radio frequency) LAN system
that will allow wireless computer networks to be installed in corporations
and businesses. Called the Wireless In-building Network (or WIN), it uses
radio signals to transmit data throughout a Local Area Network (LAN). With
it, users can connect personal computers, terminals, and workstations to
LANs without using cables.
Conventional LAN systems (like Ethernet or AppleTalk) use special
cables to link computers. It is often expensive to install these cables,
and "wired" LANs can't be set up as quickly as Wireless LANs. Motorola's
WIN LAN is 50 percent faster than the industry-standard Ethernet LAN
systtem, allowing data transfer speeds of 15 megabits per second. Designed
by Motorola's Radio Telephone Systems Group, this wireless LAN system will
be shipping in the first quarter of 1991.
Wireless LANs are very convenient for companies that currently don't
have LAN cables installed, or sites where computer equipment is frequently
moved. However, some industry analysts estimate that the market for
wireless LANs won't become feasible for several years....
- Armonk, NY IBM ANNOUNCES NEW OS/2, XGA GRAPHICS STANDARD
----------
In a series of announcements, IBM has introduced two products that
could quicly establish dominant standards in the microcomputer industry.
It is now shipping OS/2 Version 1.3, which requires only 2 Megs of RAM to
run 2-3 OS/2 applications. OS/2 1.3's performance is similar to that of
Microsoft Windows 3.0, and IBM is using it to revitalize OS/2's
popularity. Many systems now running Windows 3.0 should be able to run
OS/2 1.3, and IBM is marketing this version of OS/2 as an alternative to
Microsoft's graphical environment.
IBM has also announced the XGA Graphics Standard. Part of its PS/2
Model 95 line of high-end 33 MHZ 80486-based systems, the Extended
Graphics Array (XGA) standard has a 1024*768 resolution and can
simultaneously display 256 colors out of a 16 million color palette. The
XGA Graphics Adapter also acts as a graphics processor, handling screen
displays without the help of the Model 95's 80486 chip. The XGA Adapter
is fully compatible with IBM's CGA, EGA, and VGA graphics standards, but
is 50-90 percent faster than VGA when running DOS/Windows applications....
- Houston, TX NEC, TI PREPARING TO INTRO 16-MEGABIT DRAM CHIPS
-----------
NEC and Texas Instruments have announced significant progress in
their efforts to ship the first 16-megabit memory chips. NEC is now
building a 40,000 square meter plant that will be able to produce over
four million DRAM chips per month. When completed in 1992, it will make
both 4-Megabit and 16-megabit DRAM chips. NEC has also announced the
development of chip fabrication technology that will allow 64-Megabit DRAM
chips (for 64 Megs of RAM per chipset) to be introduced in the mid-1990s.
Texas Instruments has begun sampling two versions of its prototype
16-Megabit DRAM chips, and expects to begin low-volume shipments of these
chips in late 1991. However, TI is only now beginning to mass produce
4-Megabit DRAM chips, while Japanese companies have been selling these
memory chips for several months. In 1990, the market for DRAM memory
chips was worth over $6.6 billion dollars, and Dataquest (a major market
research firm) estimates that it will grow to over $18 billion by 1994....
- Armonk, NY RODIME SEEKS ROYALTIES FROM 3.5-INCH HARD DISK MAKERS
----------
IBM has recently settled a patent-infringement suit with Rodime over
US patents on 3.5-inch hard disk drives. In this agreement, IBM will pay
an undisclosed sum to Rodime, and both companies will cross-license each
other's patents. IBM also acknowledged that Rodime's patents, which cover
a widely-used aspect of 3.5-inch hard disk technology, were valid.
IBM's settlement will greatly help Rodime, who is now involved in a
patent-infringement lawsuit with Conner Peripherals (another major hard
disk drive manufacturer). Rodime is preparing to use the IBM settlement
to enforce its patents (and get large patent royalties) from several other
companies that make 3.5-inch hard disk drives....
________________________________________________________________
> ATARI ELITE GETS APOLOGY! STR FOCUS¿ "A SINCERE APOLOGY"
===================================
"SOFTWARE THEFT IS A VERY SERIOUS ISSUE AMONG DEVELOPERS"
=========================================================
November 5, 1990 Urbana, IL
In April of 1990, an AtariFest was held in Pittsburgh, PA. Following
this show, there were numerous reports in the press regarding piracy as
allegedly exhibited by showgoers. Accusations of software piracy were
lodged at a Pittsburgh user group, the Atari Elite. A discussion of this
issue emerged in the ST RT bulletin board area on GEnie, and I was a
participant in this discussion.
Readers of my posts in this regard may have been influenced to bel-
ieve allegations regarding the Elite. I would, therefore, like to make
it perfectly clear that I have absolutely no first - hand evidence to
support any allegations of piracy on the part of this group or its mem-
bership. I am not acquainted with any member, have never attended its
meetings, and did not attend the Pittsburgh show. I am very sorry if my
unsubstantiated remarks have resulted in unwarranted discomfort or embar-
rassment or any other kind of negative outcome for anyone associated with
the Atari Elite.
The discussion on GEnie was heated and emotional because software
theft is a very serious issue among developers. On the very weekend of
the Pittsburgh show, an online magazine published an article I wrote
about this issue and how it affects the development of new software for
the Atari ST and, consequently, reduces the value of the hardware in-
vestment of each and every ST user. Software theft is not the _only_
serious issue faced by Atari and its users and developers, but it _is_
nevertheless a significant threat to the future of the ST. The Indepen-
dent Association of Atari Developers (IAAD), of which I am a member,
considers this issue of such importance that one of its first acts has
been the publication of an anti-piracy advertisement in several magazi-
nes. These magazines, in turn, have considered this issue of such impor-
tance that they have donated the space for this ad.
I would urge ST users to take this issue seriously, also, and to _do_
something about it. You should beware of (and report!) bulletin boards
with "elite access" areas. Please discourage software sharing among your
friends. I would urge users groups to take a clear public stand against
software theft. Those who hold commercial libraries are urged to stop
circulating commercial software; the very existence of a group commercial
lending library is an invitation to software theft and gives the appeara-
nce of condoning or even promoting piracy, even when that group consists
only of the most honorable individuals.
One of the main themes of the post-show discussion in the GEnie bul-
letin board was the apparent social acceptability of software theft. If
any positive outcome is to emerge from the Pittsburgh show, let it be a
universal condemnation of pirate activities. The Atari ST and _all_ its
users will be better off for it.
Sincerely, D.A. Brumleve
Copyright 1990 by D.A. Brumleve
Permission to reprint without amendment or abridgement is hereby granted.
Note:
In witnessing a courageous effort such as Dorothy Brumleve has
exhibited in her apology to the Atari Elite Usergroup. It is indeed
refreshing and absolutely reassuring to find that there is still a sense
of fair play in our Atari community. Hats off to Dorothy for "doing the
right thing!" Ed.
Atari Elite's J. Karlovich, expressed that he felt it quite
appropriate to offer, "sincere thanks and congratulations to Dorothy for
having undertaken such a responsible and courageous task," he said. "She
has won our admiration and co-operation, of this there is no doubt.
"There is no shame in speaking the truth," Karlovich said.
***********************************************************************
: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: XTX99587,CPUREPT then, hit RETURN.
**** SIGN UP FEE WAIVED ****
The system will now prompt you for your information.
-> NOW! GENIE STAR SERVICE IS IN EFFECT!! <-
***********************************************************************
> WP 4.1 NEW!!!STR InfoFile¿ NOV 1, 1990 RELEASE INFO!
=========================
WORDPERFECT 4.1 FOR THE ATARI ST
================================
(Nov 1, 1990 Release)
1. Support for the large screen monitors has been added. It has been
tested on a Moniterm 1280x960 monochrome monitor and an Image Systems
(ISAC Board) 1024x768 16 Color Board with a multisync color monitor.
Any incompatibilities should be reported to our customer support dept.
2. Some RamDisk Software and other Desk Accessories would cause only the
Directories to be seen in "List Files". This incompatibility has been
remedied.
3. Better FSEL support has been added to correct display problems caused
by using the System File Selector option.
4. The complete document path and name is now display in the window title
bar.
5. The window positions and sizes are automatically saved when you exit
WordPerfect. If this option is not desired then leave the window the
full size and no change will be noticed. It is advised to reduce your
window size on a large screen monitor to reduce the time it takes to
update the screen.
6. If you are using a single floppy system and you should not use the
drive B: option, due to a flaw in the System File Selector (FSEL),
switching to disk B will confuse the system and possibly garbage your
disk. Most third party file selectors don't seem to have this problem.
7. The LOOK option in List Files has been changed to use a window to be
compatible to the large screen monitors.
8. Options that use a dialog at the bottom of the screen with the window
resized now behave better when using the mouse.
9. Support for retrieving and saving IBM WordPerfect 4.2 files and IBM
text files has been added to the menubar as "Import/Export" under
"File" and the "Text In/Out" option (C-F5).
Print/Font Disks
----------------
Instead of just a Print disk and a Font disk, there are now 4 Print/Font
disks with the printer defintions and font definitions on the same disk.
This should make printing a little easier with not as much disk swapping
for single drive users. We have broken them down as follows:
Print/Font Disk 1
Dot Matrix, Daisy Wheel, Ink Jet Printers
Print/Font Disk 2
Laser Printers
Print/Font Disk 3
Postscript Printers
Print/Font Disk 4
Limited Support Printers
All of the utility programs (PRINTER.PRG, SPELLER.PRG, etc.) now work
properly with the large screen monitors.
ATARI WORD PERFECT
==================
MAINTENANCE UPDATE
WordPerfect 4.1 for the Atari will begin shipping on November 5th.
ORDERING INFORMATION
Registered WordPerfect Atari users may obtain the maintenance update for
$15.00 (U.S funds) plus a $3.00 shipping charge (Canadian shipping starts
at $10.00) by calling:
(800) 222-9409 in the U.S.
(800) 446-4652 in Canada
or
by writing to:
WordPerfect Corporation Atari Products Division
P.O. Box 731 Orem, UT 84059-0731
Be sure to include a check or money order, your WordPerfect Registration
number, and your preference of Print disk(s).
The additional print disks are available for $10 each, or for an
additional $2.50 each, if ordered with the maintenance update. Registered
WordPerfect Atari users can receive technical support by calling:
(800) 321-3271 or (801) 226-8660.
_______________________________________________________________
> FIREFIGHT!! STR InfoFile¿ OPERATION: FIREFIGHT-FALCON MISSION DISK II
========================
FALCON MISSION DISK II INTRODUCED FOR AMIGA & ATARI ST
Spectrum Holobyte ships OPERATION: FIREFIGHT
To enhance the award-winning FALCON F-16 fighter simulation
Category: Flight Simulation
Suggested Retail Price: $29.95
ALAMEDA, CALIFORNIA, September 28,1990-Spectrum HoloByte today
announced the release of OPERATION: FIREFIGHT, the FALCON MISSION DISK II,
for Commodore Amiga and Atari ST computers. Like its predecessor, OPERATI-
ON: COUNTERSTRIKE , the program works with the company's award-winning F-
16 fighter simulation, FALCON, expanding it to a full campaign with non-
stop action.
Twelve brand new missions comprise the game's overall campaign and
present the player with all new challenges, strategy and adventure. The
missions are designed for successive play with the overall objective to
defend the player's home territory against ongoing land and air invasion
and to gain numerical superiority of tanks over the enemy.
The original Mission Disk is an offensive attack on the enemy's bat-
tlefield with primarily air to ground combat. In contrast, the enemy in
Mission Disk II invades the player's territory and ignites fierce air-to-
air fighting. Both programs present different challenges and combat situa-
tions and add new dimensions to the popular FALCON fighter simulation.
A deadlier breed of air combat enemy confronts the pilot in OPERATION:
FIREFIGHT. Enemy forces include three types of air opposition- MiG-21
Fishbed, MiG-27 Flogger, and Mi-24 Hind helicopter-and the ever-menacing
T-80 tanks. Players will find the new Hind helicopter quick, elusive and
challenging one-on-one. For even greater competition, selecting the "Extra
Aircraft" option will prompt the enemy to send out a second set of airc-
raft for the pilot to contend with.
While defending the Headquarters sector and his plane against assault
from threatening MiGs and Hind helicopters, the fighter pilot is asked to
fly missions to destroy the enemy's pontoon bridges, vital supply lines
and T-80 tanks. Timing and strategy are essential as each mission mounts
an increased challenge. For example, as enemy planes approach Headquart-
ers, the pilot can concentrate on fending them off, knowing that no hos-
tile tanks can enter the territory because the pontoon bridge was destr-
oyed in a previous mission.
The player's F-16 is loaded with today's state-of-the-art weapon
systems. Two new missiles have been added: the AMRAAM (Advanced Medium
Range Air-to-Air Missle) for long range attacks and the HARM (High-Speed
Anti-Radiation Missle) for accuracy and power against SAM sites. Another
effective defense is the ASPJ (Advanced Self-Protection Jammer) which
emits signals that jam the enemy's radar.
Just as in the original FALCON,every enemy target destroyed contrib-
utes toward success, but points are awarded for destroying specific tar-
gets depending on which mission has been selected. Five levels of dif-
ficulty, designated by rank from 1st Lieutenant through Colonel, are the
same as in the original FALCON. Also retained is the awards system.
Pilots who display sufficent merit may be decorated with one of five
medals from the Purple Heart to the Medal of Honor. The Medal of Honor is
awarded only for achieving numerical superiority of tanks while flying at
Major rank or higher (top three levels).
The original FALCON has won numerous awards, including three awards
from the Software Publishers Association- Best Simulation, Best Action,
Strategy Game, and Best Technical Achievement.
OPERATION: FIREFIGHT,for the Atari ST and the Commodore Amiga are
available through regular retail channels. Each version has a suggested
retail price of $29.95. The original FALCON program is required to run the
new programs. 512K RAM is needed for basic features and one megabyte Ram
for enhanced sound and graphics.
_________________________________________________________
> CODEHEAD UTILITIES STR FOCUS¿ CodeHead Utilities Release 3
============================
A question was asked about CodeHead Utilities in the CodeKeys topic. In
searching this topic for message to which to refer, I realized that there
is no information about the release #3 update. For complete information
about the original Utilities package read message #1 in this topic. The
following is a description of the release #3 update:
CodeHead Utilities Release 3
------------------------------
In the third release of CodeHead Utilities, nearly all of the programs
have been updated, most notably the CodeHead RAM Disk and CodeCopy.
Features of CodeHead RAM Disk 2.0:
----------------------------------
o May be installed and removed from the desktop as many times as you
like, while still maintaining its reset-proof security.
o No double reset is required when installing.
o Automatically re-installs itself on resets without having to run the
program again.
o Allows use of drive letters A-Z.
o You can piggyback the RAM disk on top of an existing drive.
o Automatically installs an entire drive full of folders and files in
one quick operation.
o Automatically sizes itself to fit a previous setup, eliminating
wasted memory.
o Runs AUTO programs and accessories from the RAM disk for
lightning-fast bootups.
o Reboots from RAM disk without reading hard disk or floppy drives. A
real boon to floppy users.
o Four preset floppy sizes allow you to create images of floppy disks.
o Command line options allow you to completely configure all features
from a command line.
o Optimized read/write routines for fastest possible operation.
o Uses the blitter, if available, for even faster speed yet.
o Intelligent sizing of FAT table allows RAM disks greater than 2 MEG.
--------------
CodeCopy 1.2 now has complete command line control, allows drives A-Z,
aborts a command line with Alternate key, and a bell pitch of zero offers
silence with no pause.
CapsLock now includes two versions, CapsLeft and CapsRight, allowing you
to start from either side of the screen. Both versions are still
swappable.
ArtGallery now accepts a command line so that you can install it as an
application and simply (double) click on the picture you wish to view.
Auto Organizer, ZeroDisk, and Lens have had minor enhancements or bug
fixes.
CodeHead Utilities includes the latest shareware versions of ArcShell,
Desk Manager, Little Green Selector, and PinHead, although the price of
CodeHead Utilities does not include any shareware payments for these
programs.
_________________________________________________
> SEURAT 2.0!! STR InfoFile¿ Superb Grafix editor....
=========================
ANNOUNCING:
SEURAT VERSION 2.0 UPGRADES!
From;
SKWare One PO Box 277
Bunker Hill, IL 62014
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Now, the Best Bargain in Atari ST Graphics Programs just got Better!
SEURAT Version 2.0 has added a host of new features, improvements,
and image power to what was already a great deal!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
YOU KNOW ALL THESE GOOD THINGS ABOUT SEURAT VERSION 2.0:
* Create and Edit Degas, MacPaint and GEM IMG files (any size!) Largest
workspace onto IMG's of ANY program! (reqs. mono mon.) Now, you can
use the full resources of SEURAT to create and edit images for your
Desktop Publishing, using powerful raster tools and working in a fami-
liar Paint Program environment! Enjoy the best of both worlds!
* THE FASTEST Multi-Ratio Zoom (2X to 8X) there is for the ST! SEURAT
Vers. 2.0 is 121 times faster than V. 1.0 and TWICE as fast as Degas!
* System, Degas and GDOS fonts on-line for text (with no GDOS.PRG
required!) You can Scale, Style, Color and Rotate Text!
* Automatic Smooth-Curve Spline Drawing Tools! Let your ST draw for you!
* EIGHT Image Buffers available on a 1-Meg ST!
* SlowMouse! Variable-Speed mouse makes Drawing Easier!
* Anti-Alias (and it's goof-proof)! Powerful Palette Editor with video-
like color controls! Modify whole palettes with a single mouse stroke!
* Loads and Saves Compressed & Uncompressed Degas, MacPaint, and GEM
IMG files; IFF (Degas) and GFA blocks; fill, brush and palette files.
* There's also 11 block shapers & twisters to modify image blocks
(now full-screen, too); 92 color & mono fill patterns; 42 brushes
including user-defined and multi-colored; 4 graphic write modes &
21 block & mask write modes; circle, ellipse & filled disc in free,
repeat & concentric modes; round- & square-cornered rectangles &
solids; rays; airbrush; clear-circle & clear-box; vertical, horizon-
tal & free lines; polylines & polygons in line-edge or spline-curve;
area & seed fill; user-set clipping ("invisible windows"); color
remap; mirror; screen shift, flip, invert & rotate; fill editor;
brush editor; line editor; gobs of great disk functions like Format
and a Super File Directory; and a hundred or so other features
there's no room to mention here... whew!
* INDISPENSIBLE for GEM IMG graphics for your Desktop Publishing! More
graphic tools and operations for creating and editing .IMG files than
ANY OTHER PROGRAM (no matter how much it costs)!
* DON'T BE MISLED by SEURAT's low price! VERSION 2.0 is a POWER TOOL
that out-performs the "big-name" programs!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
BUT NOW...
THERE'S MORE GOOD NEWS!
DID YOU KNOW THAT...?
----------------------------------------------------------------------
* NEW! Now, SEURAT PRINTS TOO! With built-in Print Drivers for Epson-X-
compatibles and HP DeskJet (LaserJet & HP-compatibles like the Epson
EPL-6000). The DeskJet driver outputs at 75/150/300 dots-per-inch in
BOTH Portrait and Landscape orientation, and it's positionable to the
dot! You get DeskJet-quality printing from both the Color and Mono ver-
sions of SEURAT. Of course, the DeskJet output is great, but the SEURAT
Epson-X driver at 108 dpi offers the best nine-pin output ever seen,
superb print quality for a dot-matrix, using a completely new algorythm.
* NEW! Not just Bit Maps, Either! Load low-resolution Color (.P?1 files)
DIRECTLY into the MONOCHROME program, converting them into GEM.IMG files
with stretched-histogram dithers in 16 gray-scales. You can also perform
this conversion to .IMG files in the COLOR program, print your color
pictures, or save them as .IMG files! SEURAT re-scales lo-rez pix to
correct for monitor aspect ratio, automatically reproducing the true
proportion of color images. No more squashed conversions!
* NEW! Bezier Curves! Flexible, repositionable controlled curves can
produce a virtually infinite variety of natural-looking curved lines.
Quick and easy-to-use, they really speed up your drawing!
* NEW! Load MULTIPLE .IMG files! Now, SEURAT lets you to load ALL EIGHT
Paint Screens with .IMG files of any size (if you have the memory!)
Even on 1-Meg. ST, at least two big (1280x800) .IMG files can be
edited simultaneously!
* NEW! Improvements Everywhere! Circle drawing emulates object drawing
programs: drawn circles follow the mouse before being pasted down; new
key commands speed operations; and --- yes, I admit it: a few bugs got
shaken out! Still, a way was found to make the color zoom about 15%
faster, and 26,000 bytes were added to the color program code but the
color program ended up only 1400 bytes bigger!
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Now, for a limited time, you can purchase
SEURAT VERSION 2.06
at a special, pre-mass-distribution price
ONLY $35.00!
Two-disk set, with 34,000-word User's Manual on-disk;
includes BOTH Color AND Mono Programs
and 191 utility and application files!
(Requires 1-Meg ST with doublesided drive)
MasterCard/VISA accepted
SKWare One / P. O. Box 277 / Bunker Hill, Illinois 62014
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Also available: a self-collating two-sided printing routine for printing
the 34,000-word User's Manual on the Hewlett-Packard DeskJet in draft
mode. (You just print the LEFT.DOC, put the stack of paper back in wit-
hout re-arranging it, print the RIGHT.DOC, and end up with a col- lated
copy of the User's Manual printed on front and back sides, ready for
binding. If you want a copy of the self-collating printer routine, just
ask for the "DeskJet DOC PRINTER Disk" and include an additional $3.00.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
OK, Ok, you KNEW that price increase was coming someday! (Bought any
gasoline lately?) But, you get THAT MUCH MORE for your money (not so with
gasoline)!
AND, to all of you who had the wisdom to have already purchased SEURAT,
your FREE upgrade to Version 2.06, will arrive within the next 30 days!
AND, all pending orders will receive the upgraded SEURAT Version 2.06!
DON'T kick yourself because you didn't buy your copy of SEURAT sooner!
Buy SEURAT now, before STe-support and COLOR .IMG support are added,
because ALL UPGRADES ARE FREE FOR SIX MONTHS FROM DATE OF PURCHASE!
SEURAT VERSION 2.06 GET YOUR COPY NOW!!
_____________________________________________________________
> Stock Market ~ STReport¿ And the Band Marches On....
=======================
THE TICKERTAPE
==============
by Michael Arthur
The price of Atari stock stayed the same on Monday and Tuesday. On
Wednesday, the price of Atari stock went down 1/4 of a point, but went
back up 1/4 of a point on Thursday. On Friday, the price of Atari stock
stayed the same, finishing up the week at $2.25 a share. On November 2,
the price of Atari stock was at the same price that it was on October 26.
As of November 2, 1990, Jack Tramiel's 36 million shares of Atari
stock are now worth approximately 81 Million dollars....
Apple Stock was down 1 3/8 points from Friday, October 19, 1990.
Commodore Stock was up 1/8 of a point from 10/19/90.
IBM Stock was down 1 point from 10/19/90.
Stock Report for Week of 10/22/90 to 10/26/90
_________________________________________________________________________
STock| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
Reprt|Last Chg.|Last Chg.|Last Chg.|Last Chg.|Last Chg.|
-----|------------|------------|------------|-------------|--------------|
Atari|2 1/4 ----|2 1/4 ----| 2 -1/4|2 1/4 + 1/4|2 1/4 ---- |
| | | | | 31,700 Sls |
-----|------------+------------+------------+-------------+--------------|
CBM |6 1/2 + 1/8|6 1/2 ----|7 3/8 +7/8|6 7/8 - 1/2|6 3/4 - 1/8|
| | | | | 57,400 Sls |
-----|------------+------------+------------+-------------+--------------|
Apple|29 7/8 -1/8|30 3/8 +1/2|30 3/4 +3/8|30 1/2 - 1/4|31 3/4 +1 1/4|
30 | | | | |1,326,900 Sls |
-----|------------+------------+------------+-------------+--------------|
IBM | 106 - 5/8|106 3/8 |105 3/8 - 1|107 1/4 |108 3/8 +1 1/8|
10658| | +3/8| | +1 7/8|1,790,300 Sls |
-----'-------------------------------------------------------------------'
'#' and 'Sls' refer to the # of stock shares that were traded that day.
'CBM' refers to Commodore Corporation.
________________________________________________________________
> CODEHEAD CALLING..STR OnLine¿ Setting the record straight....
============================
DOING THINGS A DIFFERENT WAY?
=============================
Frank Sommers Editor of Current Notes
We are writing to clarify some incorrect statements which were printed
in your October 1990 issue regarding our software. The article in ques-
tion is called "Doing Things A Different Way" and is a description of
three of our software products by J. Andrzej Wrotniak. Although the
overall tone of the column is positive, we must contest some of the misin-
formation that the article contains.
The first and most damaging error occurs when our program, MultiFile,
is referred to as freeware. This is totally wrong. MultiFile is a file
utility which is included in our CodeHead Utilities package, a commercial
product.
This can be verified by simply opening the "More" box where it clearly
states "Copyright 1989 CodeHead Software, Part of CodeHead Utilities".
MultiFile has never been released as freeware or shareware and one can
only guess as to how Mr. Wrotniak came to be mistaken about this.
The article goes on to explain two minor complaints about HotWire
which are both unfounded. Mr. Wrotniak wishes that there were an icon to
call the File Selector directly from HotWire's main screen (to access some
alternately available disk functions). In fact, there are many ways to
call the File Selector. The easiest way is by simply pressing F7 or
clicking on the "running man" whereupon the File Selector will appear to
let you choose a program to run. The File Selector can also be called by
pressing F1, F2, by clicking on either the Load or Save icons, or by
clicking on any blank entry in the HotWire menu. It's amazing that he
didn't stumble on at least one of these methods.
Mr. Wrotniak next explains how selecting either the MaxiFile or the
MultiDesk icon allows it to be run as a program if it is not currently
installed as an accessory and that HotWire allows you to locate it if it
cannot be found in the default directory. But he complains that these
locations are "not saved with the settings file". In fact, you can locate
the programs in this manner or by using the appropriate selections in the
"HotWire System Paths" box. Either way that you specify these paths, the
locations ARE saved when you save the "Configuration Settings". The paths
are saved directly into the HotWire program.
There is one other comment that we take acception to and that is "you
will not find much (if any) use for [HotWire] on a floppy-based system".
This is just not true. We have many users with floppy-only systems who
love HotWire. In fact a floppy user may actually save more time than a
hard drive user since he no longer must double-click on floppy drive icons
and wait for a window to open up. He can simply insert the disk in the
drive and hit a key to run the program...it couldn't be simpler.
As mentioned above, the overall message from the article is positive
toward our software (even though Mr. Wrotniak shows his bias by repeatedly
referring to competing products). But we feel we must refute statements
which are (unknowingly) false. We are quite able to accept just criticism
of our software and often take advantage of these suggestions to improve
upon it.
However, it is very frustrating to read complaints about a lack of
features which we have actually taken the time and effort to implement.
John Eidsvoog
Charles F. Johnson
CodeHead Software
___________________________________________________________
> The Flip Side STR Feature¿ "...from a different viewpoint."
=========================
A LITTLE OF THIS, A LITTLE OF THAT
==================================
by Michael Lee
There's been a lot of exciting new things happening in the ST market
recently and with Comdex just around the corner, I think we're going to
see even more. This could _really_ be the Year of Atari...
----------------
From Nevin Shalit on Genie:
...YOWZA! I just discovered CodeKeys!...You see folks, I was supposed to
be a beta tester of this product, but I was very busy and never really
got around to testing...today I decided to check out the last beta
version I received to try to automate my program, Tracker/ST. All I can
say is WOW! I made one macro which automatically prints a QuickLetter,
turns off the LaserBrain emulator, prints a single label to a dot matrix
printer (for mailing) and changes the recipient's version number from 2
to 2.03! CodeKeys is GREAT for this kind of thing.
...I think I am going to add a plug for this program in my Tracker
newsletter...This way users can switch from Rolodex cards to 3x labels,
etc, with one key press instead of a bunch of mouse clicks and typing...
Way to go. Now I have to call Joppa to order the real copy...
----------------
Have you wondered why the new TT won't be coming with a 1.44 meg drive?
From Bob Brodie (Atari) on Genie:
...We built the support in for the 1.44 Meg drive, but the disk
controller won't handle the speed of the bus. The WDC 1772 doesn't come
in a 16Mhz or higher speed chip. We're looking into another controller,
that is compatible with WDC 1772 specs, but faster.
----------------
Here's some new stuff that is coming for the SuperCharger, probably one
of the premier PC emulators available for the ST....
From Michael P. Odegard (Technical Assistant Talon Technology) on
Genie.
...There will be a 286 upgrade board for the SuperCharger. This should be
available Dec-Jan. Price is NOT set yet.
...The 80286 upgrade will be a daughter board that replaces your V30
processor chip on the SC motherboard. This will keep the cost down on the
upgrade, but still leave enough room for the VGA card...The VGA card will
have its own port to connect to the monitor. (You cannot connect through
the ST port!).
...The 80286 board will probably have a socket for the 80287 math
coprocessor, because it doesn't look like the 8087 will work properly
with the 80286.
...Talon is considering adding a small speaker to the 286 board, so at
least the SuperCharger will have the 'standard' ibm sound.
...if you have an Atari Monochrome monitor (or a multisync), the Super-
Charger's monochrome mode is True hercules (720x350). Since the Atari
monochrome is only 640x400, the other 80 pixels are shiftable, from the
right side, off the screen, to the left side, off the screen. You simply
press '/' from the numeric keypad to flip left and right side to be
hidden.
...You may buy or make a db9 switch box to switch between the ST and
IBM...
----------------
Question from P.Gulch on Genie:
...I have recently purchased a Stacy model 1124 with 1 meg ram and a 20
meg hard drive...when I boot the system up from the hard drive, the light
indicating activity for the floppy drive (drive A in my case since I only
have 1 floppy drive) stays lit until I put a disk in it. Now if I don't
need to put a floppy in it, the light stays on all the time...Any input
here would be greatly appreciated?
...Also, what is the resolution of the Stacy screen? Is it equivalent to
medium resolution on an SC1224? Can or should the back dust cover over
the ports be removed completely or do you have to always fold it under
where it seems to be quite unstable?
Answer from Jim Tittsler (Atari) from Genie:
...It is normal for the floppy disk light to stay on until 6 revolutions
after a disk is inserted on all STs/STacys/TTs.
...The Stacy LCD resolution is 640x400, the same as the ST's monochrome
resolution.
...The dust cover can be removed from the back of the Stacy, but I find
it useful to slightly tilt the machine toward me.
Answer from John Townsend (Atari) on Genie:
...You should boot with a disk in the drive. This will stop the drive
from spinning. This is a normal occurance with all ST/MEGA/STE/TT
computers, Stacy included.
...The resolution of the Stacy screen is the same as a High Resolution ST
Monitor: 640x400. It is higher than Medium Resolution (640x200).
...I would recommend leaving the dust covers intact. They help to protect
the various Stacy ports during transport.
----------------
Question from Alan Hamiliton on Genie:
...A week or so ago while I was using the drive it made a thunk sound and
<Sense $14> appeared on the screen. It hasn't recurred. What does a code
of $14 signify?
...If my drive is idle for a long period of time, it will do a seek, or
at least it sounds like that. Is this normal?
Answer from Tom (ICD) on Genie:
...Most embedded SCSI drives do a head reposition every 5 or 10 minutes
to retension the stepper bands.
...I think a $14 is a timeout or something. I would guess the drive went
off into lala land for a few seconds.
---------------
Until next week....
_______________________________________________________________
> ONLINE TODAY STREPORT ONLINE¿ The wires are hummin'!
=============================
POKIN' AROUND ON COMPUSERVE
===========================
by Oscar Steele
There's a lot of interesting material in the message bases. I en-
courage you to follow up on the messages and even enter into discussion
with questions that you have. It's a great way to meet new people and
whatever you'd like to know there are many knowledgeable people on
CompuServe. Let's take at some recent message topics:
DUNGEON MASTER... ALBUM?
Just in case you missed it, you can pick up Dungeon Master: The Album.
It's a compact disk filled with music inspired by the game. Users have
labeled the music as similar to Tangerine Dream. Games inspiring music,
interesting concept...
NONSTOP FLOP
There's a great discussion of the ins and outs of floppy disk drives.
It deals with a problem Peter Joseph had with reading/writing to an inter-
nal disk drive without a disk. The comments cover various topics of
floppy drive operation, such as whether it is or isn't safe to insert a
disk when the drive is spinning, etc. If you're interested in floppy
drives take a look.
Thread begins with #37864 S1/Forum Business
GOOD COMDEX?
From all indicators, it seems that there will be some sort of turn
around by Atari at Comdex, whether it be attitude, sales, or whatever.
Bob Brodie said, "Re the TT... they are being shipped in just a few wee-
ks." Sounds good to me. And when Bob Brodie spends a day "beating up" TT
units for Comdex, you know he ain't foolin' around! Also, according to
Bob, the TT's VME bus already has a German card cage available for it. It
allows users to connect more and larger VME cards. It supports 4, 8, or 20
VME cards.
Inside scoop from Bob: messages #38611 and 38614 in S6/Hardware specific
INTERSECT RESURRECTED?
Contrary to some people's thoughts that Intersect has bought the farm,
Jeff of Intersect is fairly active on CIS. Recently he mentioned that
there will be a TT version of Revolver that "will be 1/3 the size and...
much more reliable".
For more info see: message #38524 in S6/Hardware specific
WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO...
Frank Cohen? A CIS user was recently trying to get in touch with Mr.
Cohen, who formerly operated Regent Software. According to Ron Luks he's,
"now working for Peter Norton as manager of MAC utilities." Now we know
where all of those former ST developers are heading, eh?
For more info see: message #23893 in S17/Community Square
8-BIT CONVERSION
Ballblazer, a major hit on the 8-bit Atari computers, is being resur-
rected by Rainbow Arts, a German software manufacturer, and Lucasfilm.
The 8-bit version extended programming limits to the maximum by offering
graphics and fluid movement that were something to write home about. The
ST version, tentatively titled Master Blazer, is said to allow up to eight
players to participate (most likely a mixture of human and or computer).
If as Harjinder Nagra expects, MIDI ports are used, it will be the second
game that does so (the first being MIDI Maze). It could very well be the
replacement for MIDI Maze at many ST shows in the future.
For more info see: Message #23634 in S2/Games
ATARI DOES GOOD
Press releases are an interesting breed of mail. I've read through
many; some were boring, some were stupid, and some just plain were. The
one that I received a few days ago could be neatly placed into one of
those categories. Had it not been for something special about it, I would
have read it, muttered "That's nice", and dropped it in the can.
Hmm... that special something. This press release could have said,
"Caution: Dogs may have fleas", and I still would have been impressed.
You see, it was an ATARI PRESS RELEASE. I have not seen one of these
beauties since April 1990, which is when a slew of generic "This is a
Lynx", "This is a Stacy" press releases were sent out.
The fact that Garry Kasparov uses a Mega 2 for chess training might be
worth mentioning, but I have a feeling that the press release was sent out
to get people in the mood for Comdex and many revelations. I, and almost
every ST user, have had doubts about Atari's intentions in the North
American marketplace. But I think that Atari knows that we know... if
they don't do something now, it'll just be too late, plain and simple.
I'm tellin' ya, this is a sign. Comdex is coming, Comdex is coming!
____________________________________________________
> STReport CONFIDENTIAL¿ "BLOCKBUSTER ATARI NEWS FIRST!"
=====================
London, UK ATARI UK STAGES "FESTIVAL OF COMPUTING EXPERTISE"
-----------
Atari's recent computer exhibition on a train, ie; visiting key cities
throughout the UK attracted approximately 21,000 visitors. The unique
whirlwind tour was a great success, according to Peter Staddon, Atari UK's
sales & marketing manager. "We were surprised and gratified by the
extraordinary response to the pledge we've made this year to reach out and
meet our all our users, new and old alike. The tour more than doubled the
estimated attendance figures, which really pleased our third party
developers who were also exhibiting on the train."
The enormously successful "WHISTLE STOP TOUR" was heralded as a "FES-
TIVAL OF COMPUTING EXPERTISE." The entire show was a free visitor
attraction fully paid for and supported by Atari. Special displays were
built into six train cars which visited Bristol, Leeds, Manchester,
Newcastle, Glasgow and Birmingham, during the Fall school recess.
The success of the whistle stop tour could possibly be a savior for
Atari UK computer users. While other computer manufacturers are cutting
back on their promotional budgets in the face of a possible recession,
Atari UK is actually increasing its budget for promotional efforts aimed
at the coming year.
- San Francisco, CA MICRO LEAGUE BASEBALL UPDATES FOR ST > NEVER!
-----------------
Seems, we've lost another vendor. In a recent mailout from Micro
League Sports (makers of Micro League Baseball) relating to their new
offering, Micro League Football. When called to place an order, they will
inform you that it was available ONLY for IBM, Commodore, Amiga, and Mac.
When inquireies were made concerning the ST, they (Micro League) replied;
"It will never be available for the ST". 'Tis a shame for this type of
software for the Atari is really quite popular. If you would care to
help, send off a letter to Neil Schwartz requesting that the support for
the ST is a good idea that can be profitable.
The address is:
Neil Schwartz
2201 Drummond Plaza
Bld 2 Suite 2
Newark DE 19711
- Washington, DC SOFTWARE RENTALS "FOR PROFIT" TO BE ILLEGAL
--------------
The Software Publishers Association's General Counsel, Mary Jane
Saunders, relates that the fruits of a five year effort are finally to be
enjoyed in the USA. The passage of a bill, sponsored in the House by Mike
Synar (D-Ok.) and Carlos J. Moorhead (R-Calif.) and in the Senate by Orrin
G. Hatch (R-Utah.) and Dennis DeConcini (D-Ariz.), makes software rental
(OTHER THAN NON-PROFIT LIBRARY LOANS) programs illegal.
The "SOFTWARE RENTAL BILL" was finally passed and now awaits an
anxiously expected presidential signature. Once signed, the bill will go
into effect immediately thus, making it illegal for companies to rent
software. The bill, which was attached to a judicial appointment bill,
makes such rentals a copyright violation. Although at this time, the
practice of software rentals for profit is not a large problem in the
U.S., the passage of this bill is viewed by many as a strong preemptive
measure against what was becoming a popular marketing trend.
- Orlando, FL MEDUSA FOR THE AMIGA IS COMING!
-----------
A German company has a hardware/software combination called "Medusa"
for the Amiga which plugs into the parallel port and accepts Atari ST
ROMs; similar to the way the Spectre and A-Max devices operate. Emulation
is at about 95%, including copy protected games (the Amiga disk drives can
read/write Atari disks) and speed is reported to vary from 85% to 150% of
an 8 MHz 1040ST, depending on the application.
The company was scheduled to show this product at the recently past
World of Amiga in Chicago (or was it AmiExpo in Anaheim? Both shows were
on the exact same weekend...) but was "advised" by Atari representatives
that they would have their pants sued off if the "Medusa" was sold,
displayed or discussed formally in the U.S. Needless to say, they
withdrew from exibition at the Amiga show immediatly, but vowed to ship in
the U.S., claiming that the "Medusa" was perfectly legal, and used the
same technology and design that allows both the ST and the Amiga to so
successfully emulate the Macintosh. The product is currently available in
limited quantities in Europe and the company is looking for a U.S.
distributor. Look for a release of "Medusa" for the Amiga near December
1990, amid much posturing and threatening from both Atari and the German
manufacturers of the emulator.
- New York City, NY THE IBM PS/1 - A CLOSER LOOK!
-----------------
Stop by a local Sears today and see this thing for yourself. The
display for the PS/1 is awesome they, (IBM), cut no corners in presenting
this device to the buying public. For an extremely mediocre piece of
hardware, the display/marketing is Excellent. Easily, most inexperienced
computer users will walk away impressed. There is no doubt, the experien-
ced computer users who look this device over will marvel at just what the
unknowing public are presented to buy. The machine is an entry level
device, but becuase of the hype and slick promotion, they are going to
sell huge quantities of them to John Q Public.
They have a very nice digitized color VGA demo on screen.., it's an
eye catcher. They have huge posters displaying the MANY options. And
after each one, the prospective buyer is told: "Installs in minutes! NO
TOOLS NECESSARY SLIDES IN (or snaps on or plugs in)". Options like expan-
sion box with 3 more slots, hard drives, 3.5 drives, 5.25 drives, memory
etc etc all pop on/off in seconds. That's tremendous benefit that takes
much of the 'fright' out of 1st time buyers. Advertising and Promotion
coupled with slick marketing gimmicks and wala! Big Sales!
- Tokyo, Japan TOSHIBA UNVEILS SPARC-BASED LAPTOP!
------------
A "laptop" machine typically weighs 5 to 10 pounds, but that narrow
range apparently is too tight for Toshiba. It refers to its SPARC LT,
AS1000/L10, as a laptop engineering workstation, despite its weight of
nearly 18 pounds.
The product results from May 1989 agreement giving Toshiba rights to
develop and manufacture computers based on Sun Microsystems' SPARC ar-
chitecture and the SunOS operating ssytem; it incorporates a processor
rated at 13.2 MIPS. Toshiba expects the computer to be used in CAD/CAM,
desktop publishing systems and in software engineering.
Other than this misleading market positioning (Apple wisely refrained
from calling its 15 pound MacPortable a laptop), the machine, itself,
appears to be a technical tour de force. The SPARC LT comes with 8- to 40
Mbytes of RAM, 180 Mbyte disk storage, monochrome 12" LCD display with
1152x900 resolution and a 3.5" floppy disk drive.
Marketing has already begun in Japan; shipping will start in mid-July.
Price: 1.98 million yen (roughly equivalent to $13,000 at current exchange
rates). Marketing outside Japan is still to be determined. Contact at
1-1-1, Shibaura, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105, Japan; (03-457-2104).
- Fairfax, Ca ATARI FRANCE & AUSTRIA VISIT LEXICOR!
-----------
Mr. Eric Cabedoce Directeur Technique Representing ATARI FRANCE
and Alister Campion Technical Director Representing ATARI AUSTRIA
met with top officials of LEXICOR Software at the Fairfax Headquarters to
review the new Phase-4 Software series, for consideration as Officially
recommended software in their representative countries.
Both ATARI Directors we
re treated to the full dog and pony show at
Lexicor. They first saw the foundation programs then were treated to the
first viewing of the 68030 256 Color display programs under the production
TOS ROMS for the TT release in the USA. They watched the 700K animations
being loaded and displayed in LEXICOR'S new and powerful .FLM file for-
mats, at a blinding (1.2seconds). They then watched the very first
display of High-Res animation previews specifically for the ATARI
computer, in both 2d and 3d formats singly and in combined demonstrations.
Using LEXICOR'S exclusive Device independant programming.
During the demonstrations Alistair commented that he had never ex-
pected that the programs would be as powerful as they obviously were.
Also, Lexicor made a point of noting that all the promised technology was
present. And that in six months, it should be the single most stunning
and powerful graphics programming system and combination released for the
ATARI.
Both ATARI Directors return to their respective countries with pro-
duct demonstrations and LEXICOR'S new and incredibly fast .FLM format
utilities, 35mm screen shots, and preliminary marketing commitments for
the international ATARI markets.
Initial distribution negotiations were opened and the availability
of 24 bit color hardware for the ST and TT were also covered in the days
proceedings. The day was capped off with a sneak preview of LEXICOR'S
Photoreal paint show in GIF and .PNT file formats, followed by a delight-
ful oriental feast.
- Toronto, Canada ATARI CANADA SHIPS 12 TT030 UNITS
---------------
The TT030 computeras are in Canada now. Atari Canada had 12 of them
yesterday. They scattered them to their pet dealers across the cold,
Candian country. Only 12 folks, but at least its a start and the flow has
begun. This is not to indicate that the supply side of the TT030 units is
sparse, it means that Atari is attempting to make sure that those dealers
who have the expertise and where-with-all will have the units to Demo for
all to see and "believe in Canada.
- Los Angeles, CA SNEAK PREVIEW OF NEW OFFERING'S PRICES!
---------------
My my.... my little birdie hasn't failed me yet! check out these
delightful prices and options! Atari is on the move again!
ITEM LIST PRICE
------------------------------------------------
TT Monitor PPC 1426.................$ 549.95
TTM 19" Monitor.....................$ 999.95
SLM 605.............................$1295.95
TT030-2mb ram/50mb HD...............$2995.95
TT030-4mb ram/50mb HD...............$3495.95
TT030-8mb ram/80mb HD...............$4299.95
The NEW STe offerings...
2mb with 50mb Hard Drive............$1799.95
4mb with 80mb Hard Drive............$1999.95
_________________________________________________________
> STe & GAMES STR Feature "...you can't believe all you read"
=======================
ANOTHER LOOK AT THE STE AND GAME UPDATE
=======================================
by Jim Keho PHAST
After reading STReport #644 11/2/90 issue. I first was sort of
surprised at the rather long list from ST Action mag. of the games that
don't work on the STE. But you know you can't believe everything you
read, right? If these were tested on a 520STE that's probably why.
Because at least three of the games DO work on my 1040STE (1meg), they
are: Carrier Command, Operation Wolf, and Paperboy. It must be the memory
and I wouldn't doubt if there's more on the list that really DO work with
an STE w/1meg! Just like with the ST, there's some games that need more
than 512k!
I agree that most games that don't work with TOS1.60 also don't work
with TOS1.4 with the exception of Populous which does work with 1.4, there
may be more too. There are also games (that I do have) that were on the
list that don't work (I won't re-list them to save space). Here's a few
that are not on the list that don't work with my STE/TOS1.6: Gold of the
Realm, MathTalk, World Games, and the STOS Basic language (maybe they'll
come out with a patch for STOS like for TOS1.4? hint hint) One reason I
first hesitated in buying an STE was ALL I heard was most software won't
run, hard drives won't work!, etc.
I'm sure you've all heard this. About the worst I heard was "1/3 of
the software doesn't run on the STE" and "half of them won't work with a
hard drive". Boy, things can sure get blown out proportion! I'd just
like to say (for all those out there that are hesitant) that it's not that
bad! The best guess I've heard is about 98 percent of the software al-
ready out there work's on the STE. I think that's pretty accurate. And
for the new extras the STE has, I think I can give up a few of those older
games I never really played anyway, and get the newer and better stuff on
the way that won't work on the ST with the features of the STe anyway.
I know it'll take time for STE featured (ie:stereo,colors,etc.)
software to arrive, there's already some out there! Remember there wasn't
a whole lot of stuff out there for the ST back in 1985 when the ST first
came. And not really being much of a game player anyway, I'm just glad
all the utilities I used work fine on the STe, and I haven't heard of any
utilities that don't. Also I'm using one of the "old" Atari SH204 hard
drives with NO problem! I guess there was some DMA problems with some
(few) of the first released STE's, but from what I've heard all STE's
shipping now are cured of the pesky DMA problem.
So, in closing, I'd like to say Thanks Atari for keeping the STe at
least 98 percent compatible! And if you're thinking of an STE for this
Christmas, DO it! Don't hesitate! I think you'll like it!! And if
there's any other STE'ers out there with more software that does/doesn't
work, or any STe info, It'd sure be interesting to hear about it!
___________________________________________________
> Hard Disks STR InfoFile¿ Affordable Mass Storage....
=======================
NEW LOW PRICES! & MORE MODELS!!
===============================
PRE-HOLIDAY SPECIALS
ABCO COMPUTER ELECTRONICS INC.
P.O. Box 6672 Jacksonville, Florida 32236-6672
Est. 1985
_________________________________________
Voice: 904-783-3319 10 AM - 4 PM EDT
BBS: 904-786-4176 12-24-96 HST
FAX: 904-783-3319 12 PM - 6 AM EDT
_________________________________________
HARD DISK SYSTEMS TO FIT EVERY BUDGET
_____________________________________
All systems are complete and ready to use, included at NO EXTRA COST
are clock/calendar and cooling blower(s).
-ALL ABCO HARD DISK SYSTEMS ARE FULLY EXPANDABLE-
(you are NOT limited to two drives ONLY!)
(all cables and connectors installed)
* ICD HOST ADAPTERS USED EXCLUSIVELY * OMTI HIGH SPEED CONTROLLERS *
* ICD ADVANTAGE+ HOST ADAPTERS * FULL SCSI COMMAND SET SUPPORTED *
* SCSI EMBEDDED CONTROLLER MECHANISMS *
Conventional Shoe Box
Model Description Autopark Price
==================================================
SGN4951 51Mb 28ms 3.5" Y 519.00
SGN6177 62Mb 24ms 3.5" Y 619.00
SGN1096 85Mb 24ms 3.5" Y 649.00
SGN6277 120Mb 24ms 3.5" Y 889.00
SGN1296 168Mb 24ms 3.5" Y 1069.00
SGN4077 230Mb 24ms 3.5" Y 1669.00
==================================================
WE HAVE A COMPLETE LINE OF 3.5 LOW PROFILE HARD DRIVES
for
USE IN MEGA ST COMPUTERS AND RELATED CONFIGURATIONS.
20mb #AI020SC 379.95 30mb #AIO3OSC 419.95
50mb #AI050SC 449.95 65mb #AI065SC 499.95
85mb #AI085SC $559.95
MEGA ST Internal Hard Drives
CONNOR HIGH PERFORMANCE MECHANISMS
>>> ALL ABCO DRIVES ARE HIGH SPEED UNITS <<<
(500 - 600k per sec @ 23 -33ms)
CALL FOR SUPER SAVINGS ON ALL OUR OTHER CUSTOM UNITS
FROM 30mb 28MS @ $419.00!
Ask about our "REBATE SPECIALS"
--==*==--
SHIPPING AND INSURANCE INCLUDED
============================================
* SYQUEST 44MB (#555)>> ABCO "44" << REMOVABLE MEDIA DRIVE *
- SYQUEST 44 MB DRIVE - ICD ST ADVANTAGE PLUS H/A
- ICD Utility Software - 3' DMA Cable
- Fan & Clock - Multi-Unit Power Supply
(1) 44 MB Syquest Cart.
COMPLETELY ASSEMBLED AND READY TO RUN!
--->> SPECIAL NOW ONLY __$719.95__ <<---
*** SPECIAL SYQUEST OFFER!! ***
ORDER YOUR CUSTOM SYQUEST UNIT NOW AND GET A SECOND COMPLETE UNIT!
***** for $50.00 LESS! *****
* TWIN SYQUEST 44MB REMOVABLE MEDIA DRIVES ... PROGRAMMER'S DELIGHT *
SPECIALLY PRICED ** $1339.00 **
* SYQUEST 44MB REMOVABLE MEDIA DRIVE AND HARD DRIVE COMBINATIONS *
- Syquest 44 Model [555] and the following hard drives -
50mb SQG51 $1079.00 30mb SQG38 $1039.00
65mb SQG09 $1119.00 85mb SQG96 $1129.00
LOWBOY - STANDARD - DUAL BLOWER CABINETS
CUSTOM CONFIGURATIONS AVAILABLE
Listed above are a sampling of the systems available.
Prices also reflect various cabinet/power supply configurations
(over sixty configurations are available, flexibility is unlimited)
*** ALL Units: Average Access Time: 24ms - 34ms ***
ALL UNITS COMPATIBLE WITH --> SUPERCHARGER - PC-DITTO/II - SPECTRE/GCR
LARGER units are available - (special order only)
NO REPACKS OR REFURBS USED!
- Custom Walnut WOODEN Cabinets - TOWER - AT - XT Cabinets -
Keyboard Custom Cables Call for Info
ALL POWER SUPPLIES UL APPROVED
-* 12 month FULL Guarantee *-
(A FULL YEAR of COVERAGE)
QUANTITY & USERGROUP DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE!
_________________________________________
DEALERS and DISTRIBUTORS WANTED!
please, call for details
Personal and Company Checks are accepted.
ORDER YOUR NEW UNIT TODAY!
CALL: 1-800-562-4037 -=**=- CALL: 1-904-783-3319
Customer Orders ONLY Customer Service
9am - 8pm EDT
Tues thru Sat
____________________________________________________________
> A "Quotable Quote"¿
=================
"POSITIONS BUILT ON FALSE ACCUSATION.."
"...CRUMBLE TO RESIDUES OF DUST!"
"EGOMANIACAL PURSUIT OF AN ELICIT GOAL ALWAYS..."
"MAKES FOR A PAINFUL FAILURE!"
...The Chronicles of Life
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
STReport¿ "YOUR INDEPENDENT NEWS SOURCE" November 09, 1990
16/32bit Magazine copyright ½ 1990 No.6.45
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
STReport Online Magazine¿
Also available on more than 10,000 Private BBS systems WorldWide!
Where the NEWS is reported..... not made or embellished!
-*****-
Views, Opinions and Articles Presented herein are not necessarily those of
the editors, staff, STReport¿ CPU/STR¿ or ST Report¿. Permission to
reprint articles is hereby granted, unless otherwise noted. Each reprint
must include the name of the publication, date, issue # and the author's
name. The entire publication and/or portions therein may not be edited in
any way without prior written permission. The contents, at the time of
publication, are believed to be reasonably accurate. The editors,
contributors and/or staff are not responsible for either the use/misuse
of information contained herein or the results obtained therefrom.
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
