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Silicon Times Report Issue 0705
*---== ST REPORT INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE ==---*
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
"The Original 16/32bit Online Magazine"
from
STR Publishing Inc.
""""""""""""""""""
February 08, 1991 No.7.06
==========================================================================
STReport International Online Magazine¿
Post Office Box 6672
Jacksonville, Florida
32205 ~ 6672
R.F. Mariano
Publisher - Editor
-----------------------------------------
Voice: 904-783-3319 10 AM - 4 PM EST
BBS: 904-786-4176 USR/HST DUAL STANDARD
FAX: 904-783-3319 12 AM - 6 AM EST
-----------------------------------------
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privately owned & operated STReport support BBS
ALL issues of STReport International Online Magazine
are available along with
A worldwide list of private bbs systems carrying STReport
__________________________________________________________________
> 02/08/91: STReport #7.06 The Original 16/32 bit Online Magazine!
-------------------------
- The Editor's Desk - CPU REPORT - CPU MacNews
- 2 TIER DEV SUPPORT - 64 bit RISC - Phreaker Busted!
- Amiga + DynaCadd - MONITORS!! I - PORTFOLIO NEWS
- Maxon MT/GEM - 68000 History - STR Confidential
* GREG PRATT ONLINE! ~ BILL REHBOCK ONLINE! *
* NEW 286/80col PORTFOLIO AT CEBIT? *
* MAC CLONE RSN? *
==========================================================================
ST REPORT INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE¿
The _Number One_ Online Magazine
-* FEATURING *-
"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 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!
==========================================================================
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> The Editor's Podium¿
Two major online conferences in one week! I can't hardly stand all
the good news. And good news it is folks. The Mega STe is definately a
step above. New distribution modes, enhanced developer support, tiered
developer support, enhanced dealer support and greatly enhanced customer
support. Atari is on the move.
Beginning next week, STReport begins a series on the new hardware and
for openers, will begin with the Mega STe in all its glory. With the info
that the delivery of regular shipments of Atari hardware through major
national distribution systems most developers heaved a giant sigh of
relief. "With influx of new hardware the market will be stimulated,
that's good news."
This editorial is more like a good news note and rightfully so, also,
its going to be short because STReport has brought BOTH major online
conferences to you in this issue along with our regular news and features.
This is an information packed issue. Pass it around freely!
Again, as always, Thank you for your strong support!
Ralph.......
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
> STReport's Staff The regulars and this week's contributors!
================
Publisher - Editor
------------------
Ralph F. Mariano
Staff Editors:
--------------
Micheal Arthur Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr. Dana P. Jacobsen
Lucien Oppler Brad Martin Walter L. Daniel
Contributing Correspondants:
----------------------------
Michael Lee Richard Covert Roger Stevens
Brian Converse Oliver Steinmeier
IMPORTANT NOTICE
================
Please, submit letters to the editor, articles, reviews, etc...
via E-Mail to:
Compuserve.................... 70007,4454
GEnie......................... ST.REPORT
Delphi........................ RMARIANO
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
> A "Quotable Quote"¿
=================
"We have reorganized Atari U.S. to be a more responsive and friendly
company, a kinder and gentler Atari. We have even added new people in
the U.S."
.....<[Sam Tramiel] STRAMIEL>
***********************************************************************
NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE
COMPUSERVE WILL PRESENT $15.00 WORTH OF COMPLIMENTARY ONLINE TIME
to the Readers of;
ST REPORT INTERNATIONAL 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 - (Feb. 8)
CONFERENCE WITH ATARI'S BILL REHBOCK
The transcript of last nights Conference with Bill Rehbock, director
of technical services at ATARI Corp, is now available in LIBRARY 1 of the
Atari ST Arts Forum as BILLCO.ARC.
ATARI REGISTERED DEVELOPERS.
Please download file CPXDOC.ARC from LIBRARY 7 of the Atari Produc-
tivity Forum (GO ATARIPRO) for the new control panel specification (XCont-
rol) for the ST/Mega/ STE/TT computers. Contains source code of examples,
bindings, startup module, and header tool.
Atari Developer Support has uploaded NEWLAN.ARC to LIBRARY 7 of the
Atari Productivity Forum (GO ATARIPRO) for Atari Registered Developers.
This is a replacement for TTLANG.ARC. Contains changes to HINSTALL, HDX,
and the way GENERAL.CPX will handle cache on the TT or Mega STE.
Please note that Library 7 is only accessible
to Atari Registered Developers.
To gain access, please send a CompuServe Mail
message to 70007,1072.
MAXWELL ANNOUNCES EXPOSE IS SHIPPING
MAXWELL CPU announces that EXPOSE is now shipping. Read the announ-
cement in EXPOS1.ARC now available in LIBRARY 6 of the Atari Vendors Forum
(GO ATARIVEN).
NEW FILES IN ATARI PORTFOLIO FORUM (GO APORTFOLIO)
A new FAST version of PGSHOW is now available for downloading from
LIBRARY 1 or LIBRARY 11. Other new files available in LIBRARY 1 include:
a graphics demo and a utility that lists fragmented files on your RAM
card.
NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE
***********************************************************************
> Bill Rehbock STR Online¿ ONLINE WITH ATARI'S DEVELOPER COORDINATOR
=======================
Compuserve Presents:
ONLINE
with
BILL REHBOCK, ATARI'S DEVELOPER COORDINATOR
===========================================
WELCOME! TO THE CIS THURSDAY NIGHT CO!
Tonight we have Bill Rehbock, Atari's developer coordinator, with us.
Bill joined the Atari staff a few months ago, and is an avid Atarian in
his own right!
Please don't talk during the Conference unless it's your turn to ask
Bill a question. If you'd like to ask a question just type ? or /sen 2
Pattie, I have a question for Bill.
Welcome Bill Rehbock, and thank you for joining us. Before we take
questions, please tell us a bit about yourself and any opening remarks you
may have.
Bill@Atari)
Thank you Pattie. My title is actually Director of Technical Services. I
have been with Atari since September of 1990. I have been an Atari user
since the 400 & 800 days... When I worked security at McCormick place in
Chicago at CES when they were unveiled. I have been a registered ST
developer since July of 1985 when I purchased my dev kit with 520 ST for
~$4000 :-) In other words I'm ready to roll. <g>
Pattie)
My, $4,000 that's a dedicated Atarian! :)
Ok..Jim Ness starts us off tonight...
Jim)
Hi, Bill. I have seen a lot of Bob B...and even some John T. here
lately... Can I dare to hope that this could mean that non GEnie services
will be getting a larger share of time from you folks? Or don't you know?
Bill@Atari)
After I get fully settled in here in CA (I'm going back to Chicago next
week to help my wife finish up with getting things ready to make the 'big
move') I intend to keep up a little more here.
Keep in mind that my primary responsibilities are to get the Software tap
open again so we have something to do with the machines we've spent our
pennies on.
Jim)
Yes, but more online services will help spread the good news. Thanks.
Bill@Atari)
I realize the importance of the users that exclusively use CIS and intend
to take advantage of the situation :-)
Jim)
(done)
(3-2,Pattie)
Ok... Ron Luks has a question for Bill...
Ron Luks)
Bill: Speaking about the PORTFOLIO for a minute....There are a large
number of machines in the users hands now....but they are all based upon
a non-industry standard memory card.....
Has ATARI made any decision whether to keep supporting.... the current
format card or somehow switch over to the new industry standard? (and
will this affect any software now under development)
Bill@Atari)
It _is_ possible to do a JEIDA-BEE CARD adapter so that one can use the
JEIDA cards with the Portfolio. Atari was involved on the PCMCIA
committee that came up with the JEIDA standard, and obviously we are
looking at supporting the standard we were instrumental in creating...
HOWEVER, there is nothing stopping a clever third party entrepreneur from
beating us to the punch and building an adapter. :-)
Ron Luks)
In other words, even if future PORTFOLIOs use the new card format....you
won't abandon the current owners?
Bill@Atari)
The one thing that we have to (and are) considering is the over a quarter
of a million PF users out there that will have to use the adapter.
Ron Luks)
(done. thx)
john barnes)
Bill, could you please elaborate on the role of "Technical... Services and
the personal experiences that brought you to your current position?
Bill@Atari)
The position is actually a new one for Atari, my predecessors all worked
for Atari Corporate... and my role is much, much more closely situated to
the sales side of things...
john barnes)
so your position is with Atari US?
Bill@Atari)
Yes, I work directly for Greg Pratt.
john barnes)
Are there plans for further enhancement of developer support? That's my
last question.
Bill@Atari)
Yes, we have instituted a two-tier developer program...that will enable
_anybody_ to purchase the software developer documentation with periodic
updates. for $125.00
The Tier-1 developers _do_ have to have a commercial product on the mar-
ket, or must submit a plan that describes what they are working on...
Pattie)
BobR's next...
BobR)
Bill, we get a lot of questions here on CIS from people who would like to
become registered developers.. the "top tier", I guess it would be under
the new program... usually we just refer them to Gail Johnson to get the
details, but could you briefly elaborate a little on what qualifications
are necessary, and what the benefits to the developer are..?
Bill@Atari)
The main reason for instituting the two-tier plan was simply that the
commercial developers whose living depended on Atari needed _a lot_ more
support than they've ever received... In the past, most devs couldn't get
answers very often... Because I've been a beta-tester for so many produc-
ts... and an Atari user so long, I can't help take advantage of the posi-
tion to get all the things I need fixed.... and to get the software I need
(and you need :-) written.
However, I'm a flexible guy... and realize that there are some cases of
devs that don't produce commercial products, but still are invaluable to
other developers...programming tools, etc) and they can be Tier-1 also.
BobR)
Thanks, Bill..!
(3-2,Pattie)
Bill, Ron Hunt has a question for you...
RonH)
Bill> I was wondering if there were any other advantages for...tier 2
developers besides the updates....access to developer ...areas....breaks
on hardware etc.?
Bill@Atari)
We intend to set up a Tier-2 dev area... Do you think that the Tier-2
'hobbyist' developers shouldn't support their local dealers? In the past,
one of the complaints of developers was that the old program simply gave
people a way to spend $250 to get $500 off on a piece of hardware. That
must stop now.
The documentation is pretty expensive... to reproduce and Alan Pratt's
debugger is a very nice piece of software. The kit by itself is _defi-
nitely_ worth $125. It also comes with the Resource construction set,
Alcyon C compiler, etc.
RonH)
then "regular" developer areas won't be open to Tier 2 people?
Bill@Atari)
I need a place to communicate (with a high degree of confidentiality) with
the commercial developers whose mortgage is at the mercy of the next turn
Atari takes.
RonH)
I see....thanks
Bill@Atari)
Most queries a Tier-2 developer would have should be able to be answered
E-mail, don't you think. (This is one of the most difficult issues I
wrestled with during construction of the plan :-)
Pattie)
Anthony has a question ...
Anthony Arnoldi)
Well Bill, a friend and I were discussing Atari and how these new systems
are being released by Atari. This would mean that alot of new software
would have to be written over for the new systems. Will this effect the
regular users of the ST of companies abandoning the ST. Because with the
new hardware features in the new systems new software is needed. Will the
ST lose support or will it continue for us regular users?
Bill@Atari)
No, by no stretch of the imagination. Easy Draw worked perfectly and took
advantage of everything the new video of the TT had to offer because it
was written correctly. The system software is written (and is being
written) with backward compatibility in mind. One of the main things that
I have to do is to keep developers on track so that when they want to do
'enhancements' that at one time was considered breaking the rules, they do
it in a way that will make life more pleasurable for all of us :-)
Anthony Arnoldi)
That's it thanx.
Pattie)
Bill Rayl has a question
Bill Rayl (AIM))
Thanks... First, Bill, thanks for coming to visit us... For the past
couple of years, most developers have found it increasingly difficult to
keep going. What plans, if any, does Atari have to turn things around for
them? Is it going to get better or still get worse?
Bill@Atari)
I think the best thing that Atari can do is get product back out in the
market. It's one of the reasons that I am _very_ closely tied into
pricing decisions, etc. I truly believe that things are headed in the
right direction... the 1040STE is now available to dealers through distr-
ibutors... The "It takes $20,000 to be an Atari dealer" is gone...and the
new pricing is right.
On the developer side... I need APPLICATIONS. Nothing against anyone, but
we've got more darn utilities than Peter Norton would ever know what to do
with ...:-)
If the effort was spent in developing application software, the world
would be a better place. Bill@Atari)
Bill Rayl (AIM))
As a followup, are there still plans to release a SoftSource CD ROM disk
to dealers (and possibly user groups) filled with developer demos? If so,
any specific dates?
Bill@Atari)
SoftSource is Dan MacNamee's puppy, and he works for corporate, SoftSource
is definitely alive and well. We are waiting for the entries to come in
from Australia... and the rework of the CDAR504 to be finished. Chinon
discontinued the mechanism that we were using in the 504, but we WILL have
a replacement very soon.
Until then....there is no reason why developers can't take advantage of
MetaDOS (the device driver for things like CDROM players, CDROM Juke
Boxes, etc.) and do software for anybodies CDROM drive. SoftSource should
be live within 30 days by the way.
Bill Rayl (AIM))
Thanks, Bill. (done)
john barnes)
Bill, I applaud your sentiment about APPLICATIONS. I would personally
like to see a port of something like Kaleidograph and a good Laserjet
emulation for the Atari Laser printer. Is there any prospect that Atari
could seed such things?
Bill@Atari)
I've got some good Presentation Graphics in the pipeline (Atari will not
be selling or marketing it, a well known developer will:-) and UltraScript
is going back in full swing. TT-compatible, one version for everything,
etc...
FSM (Font Scaling Module) GDOS is really, really great, and will solve a
lot of problems for everyone.
john barnes)
The news about Ultrascript is good. One neat thing might be a Postscript
to JoppaFax driver. Thanks, Bill. I'm done for now.
Bill@Atari)
I have thought about a FAX driver for FSM and it is under consideration.
I will be happy to give anyone (that is capable of writing it) the infor-
mation they need to do a FAX driver.
john barnes)
I'll pass that along to Joppa.
(3-2,Pattie)
Ron has another question and then the last question will be from Anthony.
RonH) Bill>
just a short followup to what I asked before first of all, I think the two
tier developer system is very positive. Also, I didn't mean to suggest
that tier 2 people receive all the perks of the top line guys however, in
light of the current Atari software market perhaps some "extras" might
entice developers on other systems to give the Atari a try.
Bill@Atari)
Extras such as?
RonH)
small......tiny (grin) price breaks on hardware.
Bill@Atari)
What developers from other platforms are we talking about?
RonH)
I was speaking in general.
Bill@Atari)
Microsoft has been _GIVEN_ lots of hardware and it's gotten us nowhere :-)
Seriously, the thing that will entice COMMERCIAL developers to write for
the Atari is sales figures, the 1040STE going back into wide distribution
is ALREADY making that a reality...
Bill@Atari)
We can't afford to damage dealer sales any longer with the developer
program. The amount of equipment purchased is sooooo out of line with
what is being written, it's ridiculous. Any other q's?
Pattie)
Bill, the last question comes from Anthony...
RonH)
btw....I wasn't talking about me...I'm a lover, not a programmer. ooops.-
...I meant "user"
Anthony Arnoldi)
Bill, I was wondering what's going on about the STE demo contest right
now?
Bill@Atari)
I'm glad you asked that question. We have received many responses... from
here and on GEnie. Some have been quite good, and I can hardly wait to
see what the demos that are coming look like. It seemed like a neat thing
to do, I mean GIVING AWAY the most sought after computer of the decade :-)
The dealers are very hungry for demo software and I saw the contest as a
good way for Atari to give the STE & TT some attention, and an excuse for
getting the STE DMA sound & scrolling documentation released to the public
so that software can be written for the machine. :-) (in the past, as
you know it has been difficult:-)
Bill@Atari)
It should be in the Software Library here on CIS, btw. The information
from upstairs (SW Engineering) is flowing rapidly and Leonard and the rest
of the guys have some real neat stuff in store for all of us.
Pattie)
Bill, do you have any closing remarks before we end the formal part of the
CO and go into frenzy mode?
Bill@Atari)
In closing... Keeping the computers in stock is a very high priority now,
the dealer program for the first time in 4 years makes sense, and if I'm
crazy enough to relocate from Chicago to Sunnyvale (I _really_ like pizza
:-) you should all hang in there just a little longer to see how Atari
performs. There are no promises this time, just action :-)
Bill@Atari)
The TT runs rings around a 386 with Windows-3, Microsoft is starting to
get the 'emperor has no clothes' press it deserves, and Macintosh dealer
margins are falling. We could surprise a few people very soon.
Thank you very much.
(3-2,Pattie)
Thank you for taking the time to spend an evening with us, Bill. We wish
you and Atari the best of luck, and hope to see you often here on CIS.
Thank you again! Now, it's frenzy mode all!
______________________________________________________
> CPU REPORT¿
Issue # 98
----------
by Michael Arthur
CPU Systems Roundup¿
===================
Dream Computer Systems II:
THE STATE OF THE COMPUTING ARTS
===============================
by Michael Arthur
In the computer user's quest for faster and more powerful systems that
will do more in less time, the computer industry has always focused on the
"state of the art." Even the most practical computer user eagerly
anticipates news of the fastest microchip, best graphics board, or some
other new gadget to be available "real soon now", whether he/she can
afford it or not. In satisfying this insatiable need for power, the
microcomputer industry has pioneered innovations in RISC (Reduced
Instruction Set Circuitry) chips, graphics technology, and many other
areas that promise to incorporate computers into every aspect of our
society. While all of this is very good for progress, it does bring up
some questions.
As financial realities start sinking in, an otherwise normal computer
user may begin wondering such sensible things as, "Is all this computing
power really necessary? Do I really need more than 60 Megabytes of sto-
rage capacity?" Of course, all true computer users quickly reject such
obviously irrational/naive/heretical questions. But the spectre of worth
soon reemerges as computer users try to determine what their systems (and
their friends' systems) are truly capable of. For many users, the focus
of such efforts have inevitably led to the search for the "upper limits"
of current computer technology's capabilities. The search for "the state
of the art."
In order to explore this topic well while providing a broad timespan
in which to cover new developments, this "Dream Systems" series appears
once every three months. Since Local Area Networks are a "real-life" use
for most Dream Systems, all of the Dream Systems featured here have some
type of LAN port. Note that all Unix workstation vendors include
Ethernet ports as standard equipment.
To attempt to determine the "state of the art" of the computer in-
dustry, I have compiled a list of microcomputer/workstation systems that
have some of the most powerful capabilities now available in the computer
market. I have ignored variables like operating systems and software, and
concentrated on the actual computers' features and speed, the greatest
amount of mass storage you could attain, and the best graphics that system
could provide. While operating systems and software are a definite factor
in a computer, I wanted to aim for the best hardware itself, to which you
could add the other items.
After doing some research, I found several configurations that could
truly claim to be "Dream Systems". Shown in no particular order, here is
my list:
(Warning: Do not be surprised by the List Prices Shown.)
System #1: ALR Business VEISA Model 101 with 33 MHZ 80486 CPU Module
---------
Total Cost of System: $13,849.00 (US Currency)
This IBM Compatible is a system with a 33 MHZ 80386 chip, 1 Megabyte
of RAM onboard, and 6 EISA Expansion Slots. Some "necessary" items for
this unit would be ALR's 33 MHZ 80486 Upgrade Card, a SmartConnex/EISA
Floppy/Disk Controller from DTP Inc, and two sets of 4 Meg SIMM Memory
Chips to provide a total of 9 Megabytes of system RAM.
For this system's disk storage needs, an HP3176 Magneto-Optical Drive
made by Hewlett-Packard (which can store 650 Megabytes of data per Remova-
ble Cartridge), and InfoChip's Expanz data compression card (which would
enable the latter drive to store up to 1 Gigabyte of data per Cartridge)
seems suitable for a Dream System.
For video displays:
A Hercules Graphics Station Card (with a TI 34010 Graphics Processor
and support of the TIGA Graphics Standard) and an NEC Multisync 4D moni-
tor. As a final touch, an 3Com Etherlink II Card (which provides an
Ethernet port) is included.
So with this system, you would have:
ALR Business VEISA 101 w/1 Megabyte of RAM (Cost: $2000.00)
ALR VEISA 33 MHZ 80486 CPU Module (Cost: $3000.00)
Two sets of 4 Megabyte SIMM Memory Chips (Cost: $225.00 each)
DPT SmartConnex/EISA Disk Controller (Cost: $730.00)
Infochip Expanz data compression card (Cost: $200.00)
Hewlett Packard 650 Meg Magneto-Optical Drive (Cost: $4300.00)
Hercules Graphics Station Card (Cost: $1024.00)
3Com EtherLink Card (Cost: $345.00)
NEC Multisync 4D Monitor (Cost: $1800.00)
VGA Graphics Resolution: 320x200 with 256 Colors out of 256,000
640x480 with 16 Colors Displayable out of 256,000
SuperVGA Resolutions: 640x480 with 256 Displayable Colors out of 256,000
800x600 with 16 Colors out of 256,000
TIGA Resolutions: 512x480 w/16 Million Displayable Colors
1024x768 with 256 Displayable Colors out of
a 16 Million Color Palette
System #2: - Macintosh IIfx w/SuperMac Video Board -
---------
Total System Cost: $21,100.00 (US Currency)
This Macintosh uses a 40 MHZ 68030 with a 40 MHZ 68882 Math Chip,
Eight Megabytes of RAM (and a 32K CPU Cache), 6 NuBus Expansion Slots, and
a 1.44 Meg High Density Disk Drive. It uses the SWIM (Sander-Woz
Integrated Machine) Disk Controller chip to allow the Mac to read/write to
MS-DOS and OS/2 formatted disks.
To further improve this system, one could add Mirror Technologies'
RM600 Magneto-Optical Drive (which uses 650 Megabyte Removable/Erasable
Cartridges like those found for the NeXT Computer), and an Adaptec Nodem
(an Ethernet LAN Interface Unit that plugs into the Mac's SCSI slot).
Other necessities:
An NEC Multisync 4D Monitor, and a SuperMac Spectrum/24 Video Card.
The latter lets the Mac have a 1024x768 display with 16 Million colors at
the same time, and makes Mac Quickdraw operations display 5 - 10 times
faster than before. The former is recommended if the latter is to be made
useful.
So with this system you would have:
Macintosh IIfx w/8 Megs of RAM (Cost: $10800.00)
Mirror RM600 Magneto-Optical Cartridge Drive (Cost: $3500.00)
Adaptec Nodem Ethernet Unit (Cost: $500.00)
NEC Multisync 4D Color Monitor (Cost: $1800.00)
Spectrum/24 III Video Board (Cost: $4500.00)
Macintosh II Resolution: 640x400 with 256 Colors out of 16 Million
With Spectrum/24 it has: 1024x768, with the ability to simultaneously
display 16 Million colors.
System #3: Atari TT030/8 with 33 MHZ 68882 Math Chip
---------
Total System Cost: $10,600.00 (US Currency)
An Atari TT030/8 system features a 33 MHZ 68030 chip with a 33 MHZ
68882 floating point math unit and 8 Megs of RAM onboard. It also has an
80 Meg Hard Disk Drive, an AppleTalk Port, and 1 VME Expansion Slot as
standard equipment.
To fully use the TT's Graphics capabilities in a Dream System, one
would probably wish to have an Atari PPC-1246 Multisync Color Monitor and
an Image Systems M24LMax 1280*960 monochrome monitor.
To boost such a system's storage capacity, one could also add a Hew-
lett Packard 650 Megabyte Magneto-Optical Cartridge Drive, using an ICD
Host Adapter to interface it with the TT.
So with this system you would have:
Atari TT030/8 with 80 Megabyte Hard Drive (Cost: $3500.00)
Atari PPC-1246 Multisync Monitor (Cost: $550.00)
Image Systems M24LMax Monochrome Monitor (Cost: $2000.00)
Hewlett Packard 650 Megabyte Removable Drive (Cost: $4300.00)
ICD Hard Disk Host Adapter (Cost: $250.00)
Atari STe Resolutions: (Supported by TT)
320*200 with 16 displayable colors out of a 4096 color palette
640*200 with 4 Colors out of 4096
640*400 in Monochrome
Atari TT Resolutions:
320*480 with 256 Displayable Colors out of 4096
640*480 with 16 Colors out of 4096
1280*960 in Monochrome (with Image Systems' Monitor)
System #4: MIPS Magnum 3000 with 25 MHZ MIPS R3000 RISC-based Chip
---------
Total Cost of System: $18,000.00 (US Currency)
MIPS Computer Systems makes the Magnum 3000, which has a 25 MHZ R3000
microprocessor and a 25 MHZ R3010 Math Coprocessor. It has 16 Megabytes
of RAM onboard (with separate 32K Instruction and Data Caches), an
Ethernet port, and no expansion ports.
This system comes with two 200-Megabyte Hard Drives and a 150 Meg
Cartridge Tape Backup Drive. The Magnum 3000 has a 1280*1024 resolution,
with 256 colors displayable out of a 16 million color palette. Since MIPS
also includes a Sony Trinitron Color Monitor, its graphics and storage
capabilities are all parts of the complete package.
So with this system you would have:
MIPS Magnum 3000 (Cost: $18,000.00)
Sony Trinitron Monitor (standard)
Magnum 3000 Resolution:
1280x1024, with 256 displayable colors out of 16 million.
System #5: IBM RISC System/6000 Model 320 with Ethernet Card
---------
Total System Cost: $17,000.00 (US Currency)
This is a IBM PowerStation 320, with a 20 MHZ P.O.W.E.R chipset, 8
Megs of RAM (and a 32K CPU Cache), 4 "Enhanced MicroChannel" Expansion
Slots, and a 240 Megabyte Hard Drive as standard equipment.
It also has a Color Graphics Adapter with a Geometry Engine Chip, a
bundled color monitor, and a 1.44 Meg Disk Drive. IBM also bundles a 3Com
Ethernet Card made for the RS/6000. Like most Unix workstations, the IBM
RISC System/6000 is available only as a complete computing package.
So with this system you have:
IBM RS/6000 PowerStation Model 320 (Cost: $17,000.00)
3Com Ethernet Card (Bundled with System)
240 Megabyte Hard Drive (Bundled with System)
Color Graphics Adapter w/Monitor (Bundled with System)
RISC System/6000 Resolution: 1280x1024 with 256 Colors out of 16 Million
System #6: ATW Transputer w/300 Meg Hard Disk
---------
Total System Cost: Approximately $24,900.00
This is an ATW Transputer with a 20 MHZ T800 Chip having a built-in
Math Coprocessor, 4 Megs of RAM, and 4 Expansion Slots onboard. To boost
its processing capabilities, one could add two Abaq M112 Expansion Cards
(each having 4 T800 Chips and 4 Megs of DRAM onboard), and one Abaq F104
Expansion Card (with 1 T800 chip and 1 Meg of RAM standard), for a total
of 10 T800 chips and 13 Megs of System RAM.
The ATW's Operating System (Helios) can read/write to MS-DOS disks,
and the ATW uses a Mega ST Motherboard as an I/O processor. However, as
the ATW isn't commercially sold in the US, its hard disk capabilities are
unknown to us. In any case, an NEC 4D Multisync Monitor is also needed,
as well as an ATW Ethernet Interface Card.
So with this system you have:
ATW Transputer w/4 Megs of RAM (Cost: $8000.00)
Two ATW M112 Expansion "Farm" Cards (Cost: $12,000.00 total)
ATW F104 Expansion "Farm" Card (Cost: $2000.00)
ATW X100 Ethernet Interface Card (Cost: $1100.00)
NEC 4D Multisync Monitor (Cost: $1800.00)
(Caution: Since Atari does not sell the ATW commercially in the US, the
above price figures may not be accurate.)
ATW Resolutions: 1280x960 with 16 Colors out of 16 Million
1024x768 with 256 Colors out of 16 Million
512x480 with 16 Million Colors at the same time
640x480 with 256 Colors out of 16 Million (this mode
has double-buffered screens for high speed animation)
Graphical representations of the features of each Dream System:
Dream Systems List:
(Comparison of each Systems' Optimal Features)
_________________________________________________________________________
Dream |Main Chips,|MHZ Rate|Mass |Expansion|Graphics Displays/ |
System |Megs of RAM|(Speed) |Storage | Slots |Best Resolution(s) |
-----------|-----------|--------|----------|---------|-------------------|
IBM 486 |Intel 80486| 33 MHZ |1 Gigabyte| Two (6) |512*480,16 Million |
System | Nine Megs | |Tape Drive|EISA Bus |1024*768,256 Colors|
-----------|-----------+--------+----------+---------+-------------------|
Mac IIfx |68030/68882| 40 MHZ |650 Meg | Five (6)|640x400, 256 Colors|
System |Eight Megs | |Tape Drive|NuBus |1024x768,16 Million|
-----------|-----------+--------+----------+---------+-------------------|
Atari TT030|68030/68882| 33 MHZ |650 Meg | One (1) |640x480, 16 Colors|
System |Eight Megs | |Tape Drive|VME Bus |1280x960,Monochrome|
-----------|-----------+--------+----------+---------+-------------------|
MIPS Magnum|R3000/R3010| 25 MHZ |400 Meg | None (0)| 1280*1024 |
3000 System| 16 Megs | |Hard Drive| | 256 Colors |
-----------|-----------+--------+----------+---------+-------------------|
IBM RS/6000| P.O.W.E.R | 20 MHZ |240 Meg |Three (4)| 1280x1024 |
System |Eight Megs | |Hard Drive|M-Channel| 16 Million Colors |
-----------|-----------|--------|----------|---------|-------------------|
ATW | 10 T-800s | 20 MHZ |300 Meg | Zero (4)|512*480, 16 Million|
System | 13 Megs | |Hard Drive|Abaq |1280*960, 16 Colors|
-----------'-------------------------------------------------------------'
In the Mass Storage column, Tape stands for removable storage, and HD
stands for fixed, or hard disk storage.
Also, the Expansion Slot Column now measures the number of available
expansion slots in each Dream System AFTER installing the various
add-in boards in each System Configuration. The number in parentheses
is the total number of expansion slots in the system.
Dream Systems List:
Basic System Performance List
_________________________________________________________________________
Dream |Dhrystones |Data Transfer| Linpack |Size of Bus|Size,Type of|
System |in VAX MIPS| Rate | MFLOPS |Architectr.| CPU Cache |
-----------|-----------|-------------|----------|-----------|------------|
IBM 486 |10-12 MIPS | 33 Megabytes| 1.2 - 1.5| 32 Bits | 32K SRAM |
System | | Per Second | MFLOPS | Wide | |
-----------|-----------|-------------|----------|-----------|------------|
Mac IIfx |7 - 8 MIPS | 10 Megabytes| 0.29 | 32 Bits | 32K SRAM |
System | | Per Second | MFLOPS | Wide | |
-----------|-----------|-------------|----------|-----------|------------|
Atari TT030|5 - 7 MIPS | N/A | N/A | 16/24 Bits| N/A |
System | | | | Wide | |
-----------|-----------|-------------|----------|-----------|------------|
MIPS Magnum| 21.3 MIPS | N/A | N/A | 32 Bits | 64K SRAM |
3000 System| | | | Wide | |
-----------|-----------|-------------|----------|-----------|------------|
IBM RS/6000| 27.5 MIPS | 40 Megabytes|7.4 MFLOPS| 32 Bits | 32K SRAM |
System | | Per Second | | Wide | |
-----------|-----------|-------------|----------|-----------|------------|
ATW |30-60 MIPS | 20 Megabytes|125 - 150 | 32 Bits |4K SRAM Per |
System | Sustained | Per Second | MFLOPS | Wide | Transputer |
-----------'-------------------------------------------------------------'
MFLOPS - Million Floating Point math Operations performed Per Second.
SRAM - Static RAM memory (much faster than DRAM chips).
VAX MIPS - a unit of measurement of a computer's Integer processing
speed. It is equal to approximately 1750 Dhrystones per Second.
> CPU STATUS REPORT¿ LATE BREAKING INDUSTRY-WIDE NEWS
=================
Compiled by: Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr.
- Cupertino, California MAC CLONE NEAR?
---------------------
Nutek Computers has announced it has developed the logic chipset and
software necessary to form the heart of an Apple Macintosh compatible. A
spokesperson for Nutek said the company is already discussing the
possibility of supplying its Mac BIOS software, on chip and disk, on an
original equipment manufacturer (OEM) basis with several companies.
Unlike other Mac clone system software, Nutek said that its software is
perfectly legal and has hired the services of Gervaise Davis, a Silicon
Valley computer law and copyright expert. Davis said he believes that
the Nutek BIOS software does not infringe on Apple's copyrights. The
Nutek software runs to more than 250,000 lines of code.
- Toronto, Canada DYNACADD NOW AVAILABLE FOR AMIGA
---------------
Ditek International has announced the release of DynaCADD for the
Commodore Amiga. DynaCADD is currently available for: MS-DOS, Atari
ST/TT and now Commodore Amiga.
According to Nathan Potechin of ISD Marketing Inc., who is handling the
distribution of the package, "DynaCADD maintains its compatibility across
all three of the platforms for which it is currently available. Besides
the fact of accessing things like multi-tasking that the Amiga has and
the Atari ST/TT does not or running under GEM for the IBM version all
three versions are almost identical in terms of user commands. The user
interface takes complete advantage of the graphic capabilities of the
Amiga,of course, and also automatically accesses the math chip in the
higher end Amigas."
- Remond, Washington WINDOWS/OS-2/DOS 5.0 INTERTWINED
------------------
Microsoft is developing MS-DOS 5.0, the next version of MS-DOS, so it
will be more "complementary" to Windows. Also, "Windows libraries" are
being offered that allow OS/2 to run Windows applications. In the
planning stages is a "New Technology" OS/2 kernel that will not only run
Windows applications, but will include integrated network functions and
the sharing of device drivers with DOS and Windows. All indications are
that Microsoft has intensive plans to "intertwine" MS-DOS 5.0, Windows
and OS/2.
- Tokyo, Japan WINDOWS OPENING UP IN JAPAN
------------
IBM is developing a Japanese Windows 3.0 for its IBM PC's and is expected
to be released this spring. NEC has already released Windows 3.0, with
Fujitsu and Toshiba expected to release Windows in February and April
respectively.
- Sunnyvale, California 64-BIT RISC CHIP INTRODUCED
---------------------
The new R4000 RISC (reduced instruction set computing) chip has been
introduced by MIPS Computer Systems. With the 64-bit R4000 installed,
workstations will be capable of running up to ten times faster than the
current 32-bit models. RISC processors have fewer instructions than most
other microprocessors and because of that, are designed to simplify
software development, and speed a machine's execution of software
instructions.
- Columbus, Ohio COMPUSERVE BEING SUED
--------------
Prodigy isn't the only online service with problems, CompuServe is having
to defend itself against a class action suit brought by former users of
The Source, which CompuServe bought and closed in 1989. There were over
50,000 users of The Source when CompuServe bought it out. CompuServe
succeeded in getting one complaint dismissed but a second, amended
complaint has been allowed to go forward.
The suit, filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, alleges that Source
members inherited by CompuServe in the deal were forced to accept an
"Executive Option" membership to the system when their accounts were
transferred. The suit, filed by Chicago attorneys Paul Bernstein and
Barry Neil Lowe, notes that the Executive Option costs $10/month while
regular CompuServe membership carries a minimum charge of just $1.50 per
month.
- Cupertino, California LOTUS, IMPROV AND NEXT ON SCHEDULE
---------------------
Lotus Development Corp. has announced it has begun shipping Lotus Improv,
its new spreadsheet for the Next computer. Lotus Improv has a suggested
retail price of $695. However, customers who buy and register any of
Next's new 68040 computers or who upgrade their current NEXT with the
68040 upgrade kit, get a free copy of Lotus Improv (promotion to end
March 31, 1991).
- Newport Beach, California NEW MODEM/FAC CHIP SET ANNOUNCED
-------------------------
Rockwell announced at the ComNet communications trade show, the RC9624AC,
a new 2-chip chip set designed for laptop computers which can double as a
2,400 bit/second data modem and 9,600 bit/second fax modem. The data
modem follows the V.42bis data compression standard and also includes MNP
data compression. The whole unit requires less power and takes up less
space than previous products, and it's planned it will be usable with
cellular protocols in the future.
- Englewood, Colorado TRUCKERS AND COMPUTERS
-------------------
Cellular Automated Transmission (CAT) has been introduced by Information
Solutions, Inc (ISI) for professional truckers. CAT is the first
computerized on-board communications system which will enable truckers in
the field to create an immediate and direct computer link with
headquarters. This will aid in managing various activities such as
processing delivery receipts, bills of lading and scheduling.
CAT uses a personal laptop computer (IBM compatible), cellular telephone,
high speed modem and a mobile fax machine installed in the truck cab and
will have a price tag from $1000 - $2000, depending on configuration.
- Mountain View, California ADOBE STREAMLINE VERSION 2.0
-------------------------
Version 2.0 of Adobe Streamline which features improvements to the user
interface, import and export capabilities and converting grey-scale art
will start shipping this month. Version 2.0 will be sold at $195, which
is less than 1/2 the price of the current version. Registered users will
be upgraded for free and will be able to buy any Adobe type-face for only
$39.
- East Farmingdale, New York PHREAKER "PHIBER OPTIK" NABBED!
--------------------------
After a year long investigation, the New York State Police and the US
Secret Service have arrested 18-year-old Mark Abene (aka PHIBER OPTIK) of
Queens, New York. Through the use of a stolen credit card, Abene is said
to have tampered with a New York Telephone computer so that he and others
could have unbilled access to a "900" telephone.
Abene has been charged with felony counts of computer tampering, first
degree and computer trespass and a misdemeanor charge of theft of
services. Each of the felony charges carries a maximum sentence of from
1 to 4 years in prison. Since Abene was arrested under New York state
statues, he will be classified as an adult; while if he'd been charged
under federal statues, he would have been considered a minor at the time
of the alleged acts.
- Moscow, U.S.S.R. "PSST! WANNA TRADE THIS RAMCHIP FOR THAT BIG MAC?"
-----------------
Because of component shortages, market uncertainties, and the need for
new business partners, some Soviet computer factories which make IBM
360/370, DEC, and PC clones have nearly shut down. According to an
anonymous source, "In the situation where money means nothing and
factories are refusing to follow the "plan," they were forced even to
exchange RAM chips for food supplies to get lines running".
____________________________________________________
> STR Mail Call¿ Letters to the Editors
=============
NEWS from GERMANY
=================
by Oliver Steinmeier
Dear Mr. Jacobson and Mr. Boucher:
One of your club members, Fred McGhee, showed me a copy of the Sep-
tember issue of your club magazine (excellent, looks quite professional).
During the last five months Fred and I translated and revised my German
book "PC/AT-SPEED gewubt wie". The English edition, "The Official Guide
to PC/AT-SPEED" will most likely be available in the States, Canada and
UK in March, 1991.
In the magazine you asked for articles and reports. Here are some
'news items' you or other members of SSAG might be interested in:
In December the developer of PC/AT-SPEED released a new version of the
PC-SPEED software. V1.5 now offers a GEM-based installation program,
nearly exactly the same as that coming with AT-SPEED. This allows for
most convenient installation. It is now also possible to use the Atari
SLM laser printer with PC-SPEED and MS-DOS. The new PC-SPEED driver can
be installed as accessory. This makes it possible to easily switch over
from TOS to DOS and back to TOS without loosing [sic] the TOS memory
contents (possible with ST with more than 1 MB RAM).
The AT-SPEED software (currently V2.24) offers all these features and
also monochrome VGA and EGA support. Talon Technologies is the new distr-
ibutor of the PC/AT-SPEED products in the US.
CCD Software (Eltville, Germany) eventually released TEMPUS WORD V1.0
in December, 1990. I'll get a version within the next few days to write a
report.
Bela Software, former German distributor of CodeHead Software produ-
cts, announced the introduction of a new 'software blitter' called 'NVDI'
(New VDI). This program reportedly replaces the complete VDI with a new
and faster one. Also included is a GDOS. The announced price for this
German product is DM 99.00 (currently $1 is about DM 1.50).
Maxon, another German company, plans to release a multi-tasking GEM
for the ST. No details are known so far.
Omikron Software released 'Mortimer Plus', a new and enhanced version
of the (at least here) well-known utility. The editor now offers autom-
atic word-wrap, some other new functions (including control panel options)
are available. Mortimer Plus works on the ST and also on the TT.
I plan to visit the US this Spring (probably March 3 - April 15). Is
it possible to visit one of your club meetings? As I mentioned before, I
work for a German ST magazine and plan to write some reports about Amer-
ican Atari clubs and companies developing hardware and software for the
ST.
Do you know of any (Atari) computer fairs taking place in March or
April? Of course, Fred told me about your show last October.
Sincerely yours,
Oliver Steinmeier
***********************************************************************
: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!! <-
***********************************************************************
> Greg Pratt STR OnLine¿ ONLINE WITH ATARI'S GENERAL MANAGER
=====================
GEnie Presents:
ONLINE
with
GREG PRATT, ATARI'S GENERAL MANAGER
===================================
listen-only.
<[Sysop] JEFF.W>
Thank you for coming back! We have with us this evening Greg Pratt,
General Manager of Atari Computer Corporation. Last week's conference was
complicated by a number of problems so Mr. Pratt has been kind enough to
visit us tonight to set some things right. Hopefully, we will have much
better luck system-wise than last week.
<[Sysop] JEFF.W>
Mr. Pratt...Do you have any opening remarks before we start taking ques-
tions?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Good evening everyone. I am happy to be with you here tonight, and hope
that we will have better luck this time in sharing our thoughts with one
another.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
I'd like to start out by telling you a little about myself. I have been
an associate of Jack Tramiel's for the past twelve years. During that
time frame, we went through the most explosive portion of the home com-
puter growth with the Commodore 64. I was President of the US operations
for Commodore during that time frame. After Jack left Commodore, I came
with him, and was part of a new start up company called Tramiel Technol-
ogy. This was the beginning of the company that ultimately purchased
Atari. I am one of the six people in the management team that came in
when Jack purchased Atari. Since that time, I have held a number of
positions with the company, the latest one being the Chief Financial
Officer for Atari Corp.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
I'd also like to fill you in on some of the current happenings here at the
US subsidiary.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
We will use our Strategic Partner Program, where we will be working with
approximately 100 key dealers located throughout the US. These dealers
will be especially qualified to provide high end customers with the type
of support that they require. As part of the Strategic Partner Program,
we will be working with key developers in each of their areas of applicat-
ion.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
We will be using distributors as a secondary method of distributing our
products. The Lynx, the Portfolio, and the STEs are all in distribution
now. The only products that will be held back from distribution will be
the TT. We feel this will enable us to have a greater penetration throug-
hout the US market.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
We have lowered our suggested retail prices on our machines.
The new prices are as follows:
1040 STE $ 599.95
Mega STE $1699.95 (2mb), $1849.95 (4mb) - both w/50mb HD
TT030/2-50 $2399.95
TT030/4-50 $2799.95
TT030/8-80 $3799.95
Megafile 30 $ 599.95
Megafile 44 $ 899.95 w/cart.
Megafile 60 $ 799.95
SLM605 Laser $1295.95
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
With that, let's open the floor to questions, Jeff.
<[Sysop] JEFF.W>
Okay. We'll start with Terry.
<[Z-Net] T.SCHREIBER1>
Are any cutbacks planned in the User Group show category? If so by how
much? Do you feel these shows are important to Atari?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
There are no plans to reduce support for User Group shows in the U.S. On
the contrary, such shows are extremely important to us at Atari.
<[Sysop] JEFF.W>
L.SMITH?
<L.SMITH70>
By this time, most of us are aware of the existence of the Lynx II. Two
questions: 1) Is it in fact smaller? 2) If so, How in relation to GB?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
The basic unit is smaller, but the screen size remains the same and has
all of the functionality of the original unit. Versus the GameBoy, the
unit is approximately twice the thickness of Gameboy.
<[Sysop] JEFF.W>
Wilton.
<W.VARGAS2>
Good evening Mr. Pratt. My question is: is ATARI really aware of the
state of its market and the condition of the third-party companies that...
support the ATARI computer; for example: START magazine is going bi-month-
ly, Practical Solutions, Michtron and many others are gone. Companies
that we all thought were here to stay, are now history. That should mean
something.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Atari is very aware of the condition of third party companies. We are
initiating a Strategic Partner program whereby we will work very closely
with important developers to help with current conditions... One more
question...can I?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Our understanding is that Michtron has been sold, not gone out of busi-
ness, and that Start is re-evaluating its decision to go bimonthly and
that we are actively soliciting bundle proposals from developers, so that
we are no longer just working with them to build customer bases, we have
become a customer ourselves.
<W.VARGAS2>
We all know that if ATARI were going to spend one million dollars in
advertising, still it wouldn't help much. What, if any, are ATARI's plans
to spread the word? Will it include the so-called "Revolution"? about
its products, that is.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Atari supports the "Revolution" and we recognize that word of mouth is the
strongest form of advertising, still we intend to spend approximately 10%
of sales on advertising media for the computer line. We anticipate stable
supply lines for 1991.
<[Mark] STACE>
The possible introduction of a Mega STE with only 1 meg and no HD con-
firmed by Sam last week. Couple questions...
#1: Retail price? #2: Will this unit require extra hardware.. (other
than the HD itself) to add a HD to it? IE, host adapter..etc?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
The retail pricing is not final, and we haven't made a decision about
adding the HD host adapter. Any thoughts on that?
<[Pattie (AIM)] UNICORNPUB>
Thank you for joining us Greg! I'd like to ask what form the advertising
for Atari's computer line will take.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Advertising will take the form of mainly print media, specializing in
computer magazines, however with some general, broad-based coverage.
<[Pattie (AIM)] UNICORNPUB>
Greg, what type of general, broad-based coverage? (just to put you on
the spot!)
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
We would anticipate being in Magazines like INC., Forbes, Money, Home
Office, Newsweek, Omni, etc...
<[Mark] STACE>
Greg...regarding the host adapter in the Mega STE...add it!! More
thoughts. Try to retail price it UNDER $1000. I don't need a 50 meg
HD...I need 100+ meg! I don't want to pay Atari for that! :-) Thank you!
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Back to Mark, you realize that this will add possibly $100.00 at retail to
add the host adapter. This will jeopardize your $1000.00 price level.
<[Mark] STACE>
Then let ICD have one early so they can come out with a cheaper solution!
<grin>
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
ICD already has a Mega STE as of last week.
<[STEVE] C.MORTIMER>
Hello Greg. How are you planning to target the Mega STE considering it is
$200 more than a similar but less powerful Mac Classic. Also, do "stable
supply lines" mean that shortages of product will be substantially redu-
ced? Follow up??
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
First of all, the Mega STE is a 16MHz machine, not an 8MHz like the Mac
Classic. It also has color capability and is more easily expanded. Our
machine with no HD will be extremely competitive to the Mac Classic,
according the feedback from the Pacific Rim show in Vancouver.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
wait...
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Stable supply lines means shortages of product will be substantially
reduced in 1991.
<[STEVE] C.MORTIMER>
Still just being a Mac means a lot and it has much more software than the
Atari. Anyway, will the Mega STE be the main thrust in the general market
advertising to go against IBM and Apples? Thanks.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
In my opinion, a Mac Classic without a HD is not a usable machine, while a
Mega STE without a HD is very usable. Apple has a problem, in that their
developers are not making software geared for the 68000 anymore. They are
now writing mainly for the 68030 machines.
<[Mike*Germany] HILCHNER2>
Hallo Greg! This is Michael Schuetz from the German mag Atari PD Journal.
I have two questions :
1.) Can you give some specifics about the Unix system announced
last week by Sam?
2.) It was said that Atari would announce two new biggies at CeBIT in five
weeks. Will the 2nd one be the new Portfolio ?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
1) The Unix is based on System V.4 using the Motif standard. We have no
final information right now on price and availability, further comment
will be made at CeBIT...
2) No comment... Sorry.
<[Larry rymal] LRYMAL>
Greg, any push into the schools?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
We are currently in the process of recruiting an educational marketing
specialist. We continue to work very closely with Computer Curriculum
Corporation, a major Integrated Learning System marketeer.
<[Larry rymal] LRYMAL>
That is great! Apple succeeded largely by investing in the future of
America, its students. Can't we begin the same? MIDI music labs, DTPing,
etc.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
In 1991, we will focus on specific market segments where we have an advan-
tage. We will aggressively prospect in new markets when the new machines
in quantity.
<[Ralph] ST.REPORT
In light of the terrific success of the Lynx and Portfolio, are similar
promotional plans in the works for the computer lines? How soon for full
distribution of the new computers & related goodies in the USA? The
market desperately NEEDS a strong shot in the arm now.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
I'd refer back to my opening comments. We are overhauling the distribu-
tion network. We believe that within the next 30-60 days, we will have a
very effective network of very highly motivated dealers... Our Strategic
Partner program is in effect our implementation of the "shot in the arm"
so desperately needed in the USA.
<[Ralph] ST.REPORT>
Who said 286/80col Portfolio, thanks for stopping by Greg!
<NEVIN-S>
Thank you for coming tonight, Greg. I
have two questions. The first is,
does Atari have any plans to go mass market with the 1040? Commodore has
been very successful getting the Amiga 500 into Software, Etc and other
chains which creates a nice userbase which developers can survive on.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Yes, the 1040STE is our mass-market machine. We are targeting that mac-
hine to go into mass market retailers now. I agree the additional soft-
ware base is important, and we have not overlooked that segment.
<NEVIN-S>
My second question concerns public relations. Ever since Neil Harris left
Atari, the ST has become the "invisible computer" as far as the US press
is concerned. Jerry Pournelle of Byte magazine said on GEnie that since
Neil left, he had not heard a peep from Atari. Does Atari have any plans
to hire someone to be the point man for the press or do you feel this is
not necessary.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Jerry Pournelle received a TT030-8/50 from us about three weeks ago. If
there are other key people you are aware of who should receive a machine
please advise us of them. Contact Bill Rehbock about that. As far as the
"point man for the press" goes, we have Sam Tramiel :->
<[_Mac_ST_] DAVESMALL>
Thanks for being with us.... After the news of the Atari/Soviet D-RAm
deal, I'm curious if Atari is interested in marketing the ST line into
the SovUNion. The 68000 is unrestricted now, I'm told. .
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Yes, we are interested in the Soviet market. We have several groups
attempting to market computers in the Soviet Union. The lead group is
Atari Germany.
<[_Mac_ST_] DAVESMALL> Should I contact them at CeBIT? .
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Yes.
<[_Mac_ST_] DAVESMALL>
Thank you very much. Next?
<[Sheldon] S.WINICK>
Greg. Bob mentioned in a message this week on GEnie that there are now 4
classifications of dealers. Can you explain what those different clas-
sifications are?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
In order to simplify matters, we are in the process of reducing the types
of dealers to one. This will eliminate all of the confusion, paperwork,
and hassle associated with prior plans. As mentioned in my opening state-
ments, we intend to have a number of dealers with whom we will work direc-
tly. The remainder of the business will be put through distribution.
<[Sheldon] S.WINICK>
Perhaps in this light then, you should expound a little on the "Strategic
Partner" program that you mentioned earlier. Is this the current program
of only one dealer category? And does that mean the concept of the Busi-
ness Computer Center is a dead issue?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
The dealer program will the subject of a separate conference, wherein we
will discuss the various market segments. Your dealership is the kind of
dealer that will qualify as a Strategic Partner... For us, you are in a
strategic location, catering to the CAD and MIDI marketplace.
<[FAST TECH] J.ALLEN27>
Hey Greg, how the frig are ya? Thanks for dropping in, I have 3 questions:
a) Will the UNIX be available for 030'd STs in general or TT only?
b) What mass market outlets are being looked at...type, etc.?
c) There is a rumor about the addition of an "ATspeed" like appendage to
the 1040STE, can you comment at all? Thanks...
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
To be honest, I don't know about Unix on other machines than the TT. We
are having discussions with consumer electronic stores, regional depart-
ment stores, and computer superstores. Re: ATspeed rumor, do you think
it's a good idea?
<[FAST TECH] J.ALLEN27>
You bet your bippie!! It kills the "PC" compatibility concern. Please do
it!!! Thanks.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Thanks for your input
<R.GROH2>
Hello Greg, Bob. I'm the president of ACEC, Columbus, OH. I wanted to
know what support Atari can offer for a small, but enthusiastic club?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Bob is online daily, as a resource to answer any questions that they may
have either publicly or via EMAIL (GEnie mail = BOB-BRODIE). We have some
plans for a user group promotion that we will be announcing next month.
<R.GROH2>
I met Bob at WAACE. Unfortunately, he was a bit too busy to talk. One
observation about the value of advertising: I work weekends at one of two
stores that still support Atari in this market. During the Christmas
season, the only STe's we sold were to Atari owners. No one looking for a
new system knew anything about Atari.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Sorry I didn't have time to speak to you at WAACE, but I am online here
daily.
<M.HILL13>
When the TT gets class B certification will Atari start shipping a large
quantity of them to the US or will Europe be the market to be pushed?
And, in the Electronic Engineering times there is an article that Atari's
TT will be marketed towards CAD/CAM. Is this your major focus for the TT
Line?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
We will start shipping large quantities in the US immediately upon FCC
Class B approval. The CAD/CAM market is an important market for the TT,
as we are positioning it as a low-cost graphics workstation.
<[Sheldon] S.WINICK>
With essentially the entire line of Atari products going into general
distribution, how do you propose maintaining minimum standards for Atari
dealerships -- or do you now feel that any retailer or mail-order discoun-
ter should be able to market Atari computer systems?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
The TT product line will not be available through distribution, and as you
know, the TT is our crown jewel. On the other hand, the 1040STE is a mass
market machine and we want to have it sold everywhere. The real concern,
then, is how to manage the mid-range MEGA STE product. We will make sure
that our Strategic Partners receive priority shipments, priority allocati-
ons, market development funds, to enhance their profit opportunity. We
will be very selective in appointing distributors. We also are installing
a system which will enable us to track serial numbers which will allow us
to identify the path a machine took to the user.
<W.VARGAS2>
Hi again Mr. Pratt... a few questions:
1. What is the status of the MIDI marked, from ATARI's point of view.
2. Is ATARI developing any high end graphic boards for the TT, specifi-
cally aimed for the CAD/CAM and the ANIMATION (TV) market.
3. Why is ATARI considering Puerto Rico an international market? As you
may know, P.R. is part of the U.S. and therefore, has a lot of influence
in the latin countries in central and south America. Thanks.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Judging from the positive feedback from NAMM, we are confident of our
position in the market. Did you notice the STACY on the Arsenio Hall show
the last two nights, with the Atari Logo prominently displayed? Re the
graphics board, we aren't prepared to discuss our plans right now, but we
are working with third-party developers that our addressing this issue.
As for Puerto Rico, please call offline so we can discuss this issue. Or
leave EMAIl to BOB-BRODIE with your phone number so we can call you.
<J.VOGH>
What types of VME products do you know of that work with the Mega STE and
TT (TOS and UNIX)?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
The Green Springs Computer Products Industry-Pak 3U cards (octal serial
port, ram expansion, A/D - D/A converters) all work quite nicely, however,
they are a bit pricey. There are over 3000 VME cards on the market.
Contact B.REHBOCK via EMail for more specifics on which ones work in the
TT.
<[givemeaSTE:)] C128.JBEE>
What kind of software, hardware, etc, show and marketing support does
Atari offer for small developers/direct marketers that are interested in
the Atari ST and Lynx lines?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
We offer substantial hardware discounts to our registered commercial
developers, as well as software/technical support for all of our product
lines.
<[kidprgs] D.A.BRUMLEVE>
Atari UK has enjoyed some success with power-packs featuring the 520ST and
520STe bundled with various commercial software offerings. Are there any
plans to bring the 520STe to the US market? Are there plans to continue
to sell the 520ST? It seems to me that these machines would be more
appropriately mass marketed than the 1040STe.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
We are currently discussing bringing over certain packages from the UK.
With the recent price reduction on the 1040STE we feel it is a very affor-
dable machine for the masses. The utility of a 520STE in the US market is
suspect. The differential in price due to RAM is minimal, therefore, we
prefer to give more.
<[kidprgs] D.A.BRUMLEVE>
My nephew just bought a 520STe and he is quite happy with it. I think
American kids would be happy with it too. Thanks.
<ERIDDLE>
What new Lynx products were shown at the CES (especially Warbirds) and
anything on the Panther?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Warbirds is still in development, it may have been at CES, but I don't
recall. No comments on Panther, see the transcript of Sam's conference
from last week.
<[Sysop] JEFF.W>
Quick question...When do we see the SLM605 laser printer in the USA?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Now in stock.
<[Sysop] JEFF.W>
Dealers can order now? What list price?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Dealer price is private, list price is $1295.95
[Sysop] JEFF.W>
It's getting late folks. I can only take two more folks. Sorry.
<[STEVE] C.MORTIMER>
Will this new focus on education will you hit the university store market
for educators and students to purchase at a discount like Apple does?
Students definitely like the capabilities of the Atari with Spectre and
color (for games :-)) at its price.
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
We will have a very aggressive program for students and schools.
<[Z-Net] T.SCHREIBER1>
Will there be a student purchase program put back into place? Also these
new dealers, What is Atari doing to make sure these dealers will indeed
support their sales? We have seen the low ballers and the pickpockets -
what about support, sales and service. You already got the first part but
if you are going to mass merchandise who is doing the support? Surely
Atari does not expect the user groups to do it for nothing?
<[Greg Pratt] BOB-BRODIE>
Re: the student program, we just answered that.
Re: the new dealers, again we indicated we're putting a serial number
tracking system to allow us to track down where problems happen. As
problems occur, we will take appropriate action.
Editor note.. Florida's famous sparky nailed us here we lost power at
this point.. but the conference was almost over.
=========================================================================
(C) 1989 by Atari Corporation, GEnie, and the Atari Roundtables. May be
reprinted only with this notice intact. The Atari Roundtables on GEnie
are *official* information services of Atari Corporation.
=========================================================================
> The FLIP Side STR Feature¿ "....A different viewpoint"
=========================
A LITTLE OF THIS, A LITTLE OF THAT
==================================
by Michael Lee
There's been much discussion on Genie recently about Shareware programs,
what makes a program shareware instead of P/D or Freeware, what are the
legalities of writing and using shareware, etc. I think I can condense
these 100's of posts into one paragraph....
Shareware is copyrighted, commercial software just like the software
that you buy from your local dealer's or via mail order. The two main
distinctions between the two are:
1) the mode of distribution and
2) the authors of shareware programs allow you to try out a full
working version of their program before you spend your money.
Shareware doesn't mean "free" nor "public domain". If you use a
shareware program, you _have_ to pay for it, just as you do the programs
that you purchase from your dealer. Using a shareware program without
paying for it is illegal (i.e., piracy), plain and simple.
----------------
From C.Klimushyn on GEnie...
Role players take heart! Pool of Radiance and Might and Magic II work
fine on the Spectre GCR! I know PoR is suppose to be release for the ST
but I couldn't wait anymore...
----------------
From T.Bushaw (Quidnunc Software) on GEnie...
Way last spring, ST Informer reported that Version 2.00 would be
released in the fall of 1990. Well, that's exactly what we told them;
but, alas, it's not ready yet. We ran into some hardware problems in
July which we JUST RECENTLY solved. We're now working furiously on
finishing up the new revision -- and getting close.
For those of you considering buying Stalk the Market; you can buy it now
(registered owners get Version 2.00 FREE), or you can wait (there will
be NO price increase for Version 2.00)...feel free to call us at (214)-
243- 0663 (after 5PM CST, unless you want to leave a message).
In case your wondering, some of the new stuff in Version 2.00 includes:
- Integrated downloading from CompuServe, Dow Jones News/Retrieval,
and GEnie.
- Portfolio capabilities (consolidated ledgers, performance reports,
"batch" downloading, etc.)
- Dividend and Capital Gain transactions
- Various convenience features: "Desktop" Save & Load, Save Window
Size and Price-Time Range, Movable Dialog Boxes, and Auto-Desktop
Load on Startup.
- and more...
----------------
Question from Jeff Sims Diadem on GEnie...
I'm finally ready to by a scanner -- what are my choices? I have around
$700 to work with. Is the Migraph unit still the way to go, or are there
some real alternatives in that price range?
Answer from Sheldon Winick (owner of Computer STudio) on Genie...
Your budget is more than enough to buy Migraph's Hand Scanner (actually
you have almost enough to buy 2 of them!). Migraph's package is bundled
with "Touch-Up", which gives excellent editing capabilities (although a
little slow at certain tasks).
Providing you have a real need for full page scans, and can justify the
cost, a flatbed scanner will give far superior results. Navarone bundles
a Cannon flatbed scanner with their interface and software. We've been
using (and selling) the Panasonic FX-RS505 flatbed scanner and have had
excellent results with it. The interface cartridge and software are
imported from Germany. Either of the above systems will cost about the
same price (well above your current budget though).
Answer from Warren Tryk on GEnie...
I just recently purchased my scanner from a fellow in Princeton, IL. He
has excellent prices on Canon IX-12 full-page scanners and the Navarone
ST interfaces (which plug into the cartridge port):
SCANNER...... $295 (sheet-fed), $495 (flat-bed)
NAVARONE..... $295 (includes cable and ST software)
Both units are brand new and come with all docs. The actual scanner that
I got wasn't labeled "CANON" but "The Laser Connection from QMS" but the
docs say that it is 100% CANON IX-12 compatible. (BTW, Mike called
before shipping to inform me of the different labeling in case I didn't
want it!) If you are interested you can contact him (Mike Lange) voice
at (815) 875-4728 {after 6pm central} or by Snail Mail:
Simple Solutions 122 N. Euclid Princeton, IL 61356
...now the results of the purchase: Everything arrived as promised via
UPS C.O.D. and was up and scanning in under an hour. I purchased the
sheet-fed model after consulting with a friend who owns one and am very
happy with its output. You can scan whole pages and/or portions
(windows) on a page and save them as DEGAS, Postscript, EPS, IMG, or
TIFF files. Scan either as line art or half-tone from 75 to 300 dpi with
density control. 32 grayscale levels are supported.
----------------
From Janoyan (Atari Corner Publishing) on GEnie...
....HagTerm Elite v4.7 is now available. Very few features were added
since v4.5; instead, the new version was mainly intended to fix some
bugs and quirks that were left in v4.5 and v4.6 (Sorry, but IGS is not
in v4.7). Small updates like these will be made to fix bugs and quirks
and add the promised features; I hope to get v5.0 to be the last of
these updates, and thus make that a sturdy version that will run on all
Atari ST and TT systems.
After that, I am planning on adding some major enhancements that I have
thought about for a long time. Hopefully, this will include using GEM
windows for the editor and incorporate it with the Main Menu.
If you are having some problems with Ymodem Batch Downloads, or don't
like the capture to buffer slowing down when you do a "Clear Half of
Buffer," then you need v4.7. Since v4.7 is not a major upgrade, you may
get it by sending your original disk along with a SASE to:
Atari Corner Publishing
515 Wing Street
Glendale, CA 91205
(818) 242-5692
...the new "HagTerm Elite General Manual" is still not available. There
are several reasons for the delay of this manual...but it _is_ being
made as I speak, and I hope to have it available as soon as possible...
However, the new HagScript manual has been available for the past few
weeks and I have many copies available. The new General Manual will be
shipped (free of charge) to all new purchasers of HagTerm Elite (and
also those who purchased it after the creation of the new manual was
announced) when it is available.
----------------
Thinking of buying a new DeskJet? Confused as to which version to
buy? Here's some help from Joe Meehan on Genie...
The DeskJet 500 is the current model. The DJ and DJ+ have been replaced
but can be upgraded by HP to the 500 level (I understand the DJ gets a
new drive and both get some new electronics). The DJ 500 adds additional
fonts and will run a little faster (I believe).
The end result of all this, if you are considering a purchase is to be
sure to compare cost of machines that have all the features you want;
add the upgrade cost if needed to the DJ or DJ+ to compare.
From Don Vinicor (D.VINICOR) on Genie...
....DeskJet 500, since this is the current model. I'm going to upgrade
my venerable original DeskJet just as soon as I can get enough ahead of
everything to get along without a printer for two weeks. The HP deal of
doing it for only $225 is great for a low output system like mine...
----------------
From Wayne Buckholdt (Turbo ST - SofTrek) on GEnie...
Effective immediately, the suggested list price of Turbo ST in the US
has been lowered from $49.95 to $39.95. Anyone paying more than $39.95,
between Feb. 1, 1991 and March 31, 1991, will be refunded the difference
if they include their sales receipt when they send in their Turbo ST
registration card. The maximum refund is $10 and applies only to sales
in the United States of existing Turbo ST packages (serial numbers 12032
and below).
For those of you that live in North America and wish to buy direct from
SofTrek, you can phone in your order by calling (407) 657-4611 or you
may order Turbo ST via , by sending $39.95 by cash, check, or money order.
Now every TURBO16 owner can accelerate their machine to the same
lightning speed that TURBO16 buyers enjoy today! Until March 31, 1991,
all existing TURBO16 owners may purchase Turbo ST for only $25. Simply
send proof of purchase along with $25 cash, check, or money order.
Send orders or inquiries to:
SofTrek
P.O. Box 5257
Winter Park, FL 32793
VISA and MasterCard are accepted and shipping within North America is
now free. If by chance, you get the answering machine, leave your phone
number and your call will be promptly returned.
Florida residents, please include $2.40 for sales tax and for those of
you that live overseas, please add $5 for shipping. All prices are in
US funds.
----------------
A compilation of several posts from JB.Davis (DreamPark Development)
on GEnie...
CARTOGRAPHER IS NOW IN VERSION 2.5
A mailing to all registered users in in the mail, but we thought we'd
better post this for those who haven't sent their registration cards
in... Send 'em in folks. $5.00 to upgrade.
NEW! DP UTILITIES!
We are releasing a new software package, the DreamPark Utilities!
New formatter with capabilities never seen in ST formatters before
Hard Disk utility to write your HD free space to the Desktop.
AUTOMATIC floppy virus protection when formatting
Virus protection of already formatted floppies without harming data
Fast,smart copy utility for ST floppy duplication.
DP Utilities will retail for $19.95, in keeping with our push for
affordable ST software.
UPGRADES!
We will SOON be announcing an upgrade for PowerDrive owners!
New Formatting and utility software release!
BLOWOUT ON 3.5" AND 5.25" FLOPPY DRIVES
We have an overstock of 720k 3.5" and 360K 5.25" cases, so we've decided
to blow them out by offering our customers (present and future) a GREAT
DEAL!!!
720k 3.5" drives for the ST -----> $129.95 complete
Low Profile, external power supply for small footprint
360k 5.25" drives ---------------> $119.95 complete
Clean IBM compatible 5.25" drive for 2nd ST or IBM emulator use.
Absolutely the best price on the planet!
Contact us at:
DreamPark Development
1390 South 1100 East, Suite 104
Salt Lake City, Utah 84105
(801)484-9809 voice M-F 11:00-4:00
(801)466-2541 Fax
(801)569-1949 you can even order from our BBS
The Dreamer - 24 hours a day, 300/1200/2400 baud
When these are gone, that's IT! So call us today!
NEW DREAMPARK SUPPORT BBS!
We now have our own Support BBS - (801) 569-1949 - 24 hours a day - 300/
1200/2400 baud. Come talk to us, get tech support and ask questions any
time. You can even get a current price list of all our products and
order online!
ABOUT HD UPGRADES FOR SUPERCHARGER AND THE ST
R. GOFF mentions our hardware mod, but says "it's not completely
debugged yet". Not true...It has been out for 8 months, and is fully
mature. We are readying a new, more powerful software utility package
for the PowerDrive, but the hardware is solid as a rock. Our *biggest*
problem reports from users, have to do with Atari's lack of chip spec
standards. Bad or weak DMAs, crappy power supplies, timing differences
between supposedly 'compatible machines', etc.
We pride ourselves on top notch customer support and we all use our own
product everyday. It works like a charm on the Supercharger, and we
would point your attention to Leroy Valley's review in ST Informer, and
Paul Gittins review in Atari Interface. It works, it's good engineering,
and it's the only way around the corner Atari engineered themselves into
with the 1772...We expect to be selling a lot of them for TTs, if you
know what I mean...
----------------
Until next week....
_________________________________________________
> STR Portfolio News & Information¿ Keeping up to date...
================================
THE ATARI PORTFOLIO FORUM
=========================
On CompuServe
by Walter Daniel 75066,164
I mentioned a problem I had with PGC Grabber for the Macintosh last
week. It turns out that the problem was not with XMODEM file pads, but
rather the Macbinary header that my Mac terminal program was sending to my
Portfolio. Macbinary headers mean nothing to MS-DOS machines, so you Mac
users make sure that you have Macbinary turned off in your terminal pro-
gram when you transfer files to your Portfolios.
I received detailed information about the Portfolio HPIL adapter from
Interloop that I mentioned last week. HPIL, or Hewlett-Packard Interface
Loop, is a computer communication system that includes the protocol for
transferring information between devices. Most of the other HPIL devices
seem to be motor controllers, analog-to-digital converters, and other lab
equipment, but printers, modems, and other general-use hardware can use
HPIL. The Interloop Model #170 Portfolio to HPIL Interface Adapter lists
for $275 (one or two units) and includes a device driver for interfacing
with user software such as Quick BASIC and Turbo Pascal. If you need some
sort of small, relatively inexpensive, programmable computer controller
for lab equipment, the Model #170 with a Portfolio and other HPIL gear may
be the way to go. For more info, contact Interloop at (408) 922-0520.
The Portfolio can execute .RUN files directly from a RAM or ROM card
(ie., the file is not loaded into memory first), but the .RUN files cannot
be fragmented. At the present time, there is no Portfolio defragmenter
utility. One user reported that he could use PC Compress (part of the PC
Tools package) on RAM cards with his desktop machine and card reader. BJ
Gleason uploaded a program that will list defragmented files on your RAM
cards (LISTFG.COM). Until somebody develops the proper utility, you have
to reformat your RAM cards and copy files back to defragment them.
The effort to get WordPerfect on the Portfolio doesn't seem to be
going as well of late. It seems that WordPerfect Corp. has a policy of
only developing for 80 by 25 character screens. If you want to see WordP-
erfect for the Port, reply to message 8667 so that the WordPerfect folks
know there's a market out there.
BJ Gleason uploaded version 4.0 of PBASIC this week. PBAS40.ZIP
contains the full package while PBUP40.ZIP contains only the executable
files and documentation. Version 4.0 adds files, the ability to import
from Portfolio worksheets, increased speed and other goodies. The printed
manual has been pushed back to a March 1 release. I'll cover PBASIC in
depth in the near future.
A really useful (and cool!) upload from David Stewart is called 80cols
(80COLS.ZIP). 80cols will display a text file and allow you to flip
between the left-hand 40 columns and right-hand 40 columns by pressing the
return key. You move through the file line-by-line by pressing the space
bar. If you've ever struggled to use the built-in editor to read a docum-
ent formatted in 80 columns, this program is for you!
I'll get to the help file contest entries next week. If you have any
news, views, or diatribe about the Portfolio, please leave me a message in
the forum.
________________________________________________________
> 68000 Story STR Feature¿ The History of the 68000 chip
=======================
THE LIFE & TIMES OF THE 68000 CPU
=================================
Part I
by Brian Converse
In late 1977, the 68000 began to take shape at the Motorola MOS In-
tegrated Circuits division in Austin, Texas. The idea of a new, 16 bit
microprocessor in the heyday of 8 bit chips was a logical extrapolation.
16 bit chips from National Semiconductor and Texas Instrument would soon
be available, and the PDP 11 minicomputer architecture had already been
implemented in silicon (as a pair of chips).
The PDP 11 design, which used a new concept in which the control
registers of any peripherals in the system were not operated by special
instructions but instead written to and read from as memory locations, had
powerful influence. Another influence was the IBM 360 series of mainframe
computers. The '360' was essentially a ghost architecture. Some powerful
360 mainframes executed instructions such as 32 bit multiplies and divides
directly in hardware while smaller models of the same series would execute
the very same instruction by means of many smaller steps not unlike the
way students are taught to do long division.
The concept of a visionary architecture that would carry Motorola thru
successive generations of microprocessors was a powerful one. The new
chip would be 10 times as powerful as the 8 bit 6800, and would be called
the 68000. Well, just about any new design of a 16 bit microprocessor,
using new semiconductor processes, would be 10 times as fast. But this
was a vision beyond the next step, so just 16 bits was not enough.
The DEC VAX was well into its reign as the premier 32 bit minicomputer
by 1977; many mainframes were only 32 or 36 bit designs. So, the 68000
architecture became a 32 bit architecture. Unlike the 8 bit micros, it was
DESIGNED to run programs other than assembly language. At first, the
architecture had 16 bit registers like the PDP 11, but added 32 bit 'ad-
dress' registers which are nice for assembly programs but wonderful tools
for implementing the 'pointers' of C and Pascal.
By the end of 1977, the 'registers' had grown to 32 bits as well, and
the idea that started in 1976: to make an advanced microcomputer that
worked with 16 bits had grown to a vision of a long dynasty of microcom-
puter chips based on one universal architecture. Essentially, code could
be written NOW (or as soon as the first prototypes or simulators were
available) and then reused as the various 680x0 chips appeared.
In retrospect, we might prefer that the 'visionary architecture' had
been based on a 64 bit or 128 bit design with more internal registers. It
is also clear that to reuse early programs, one might want to do some
'cleaning up', and that the prescient architecture cannot help when third
parties use it to build completely incompatible computers: the programs
can be moved, but don't do anything useful on the different machine. The
best contrast is the 80x86 design, which seems somewhat ad hoc.
If there is any 'visionary architecture' to the 80x86, it is that of
the original 8 bit microcomputer, the Intel 8008. Sure enough, 8008 progr-
ams will run on an 80486. 80486 programs may or may not run on an 8008.
Then, 68040 programs may or may not run on a 68000, either. But the 8086
design certainly did not anticipate expansion to 32 bits. The 8086 and
80186 and 80286 were not 32 bit microcomputers. By the time the 80286 had
been reliably shipping for 3 months or so, Motorola was introducing the
68020, a full 32 bit implementation of the 68000 architecture. In ad-
dition, programmers had been writing 32 bit programs for the 68000 from
the time the first chips appeared in 1981.
The first 32 bit Intel microprocessor in the 80x86 series was the
80386, introduced after the 68020. These two chips, with some external
logic or support chips, could finally run UNIX and other multitasking
operating systems efficiently. Aside from this, and some internal debug-
ging and mode additions, the 386 was an 8086 with 32 bit registers and a
few new instructions. It can be argued that since the 8086 only HAS 4
registers, suddenly 'extending' them to 32 bits is not all that traumatic.
.....continued in next week's issue
__________________________________________________________
> MONITORS!! STR FOCUS¿ THE WUZTEK OMNIMON RAINBOW MONITOR
====================
Part I
TO MONOCHROME OR COLOR, THAT IS THE QUESTION
============================================
THE ANSWER: GET RAINBOW-CIZED!
==============================
by Dana Jacobson
Let me preface this article by stating unequivocally that my technical
prowess with regard to my STs is extremely limited. Before I make any
major purchase for any peripheral, I want to be sure that I can just "plug
and play", or have someone readily available to make sure it's ready to
go. I hate to make a purchase and find out that it's only simple when you
know _exactly_ what you're doing. That said, let's get to it.
A few months ago, I found myself in a predicament. I had run into it
a few times in the past prior to this, but found a temporary solution.
What was that predicament? I needed to use a program that ran in low
resolution only; or in the case of desktop publishing, was better suited
to using high rez. I do have two ST systems at home. The BBS I run has a
mono monitor; my personal machine has (had!) a color monitor. My tem-
porary solution, as you may have guessed, was to take the color monitor
offline, and use the mono monitor from the BBS. With my set-up here, that
was a real pain in the donkey! It wasn't worth the bother for occasional
use only. I could have bought a second hand mono monitor and Monitor
Master, but I had absolutely no place to put it. If you're anything like
me, your workspace is severely cramped, and available space is a luxury.
I found that I was going to start using high res programs more often.
Also, I'm the editor of our user group newsletter. Our art director, Dave
Anderson, offered to redesign our format, but he preferred Pagestream over
Timeworks Desktop Publisher. The few times I've used Pagestream was a
strain on my eyes. I was using it in color, and could only read text at
200% magnification. It was tough to make out anything at normal sizes.
Since I had no choice - I had to use Pagestream now, I had to be able to
see what the pages looked like. I knew my answer was using Pagestream in
high res. My problem was I didn't want to keep switching between my two
monitors and I didn't want to replace my color monitor because I needed
it.
I had little choice now, I needed a multisync monitor. I needed a
monitor that I could use both color and mono programs. The problem was
that I knew very little about multisyncs. All I knew was I had the abi-
lity to use all three resolutions, but I'd have to have a special cablebox
built so I could use one on the ST. I needed a multisync monitor that I
could just plug in and start using immediately. I had an opportunity to
buy a monitor that a friend was selling, and it included a box already
built. By the time I convinced myself to buy it, it was sold. A couple
of weeks later, I found the answer within the pages of ST Informer.
In the pages of the November 1990 issue of ST Informer was an exten-
sive review by LeRoy Valley of WuzTek's Omnimon Rainbow multisync monitor.
I read it with earnest. I discovered that this monitor was exactly what I
was looking for _and_ it came with its own cables and switchbox. All I
had to do was plug it in. The review was very favorable, and there was
also talk on Delphi with a few people praising it. I re-read these mes-
sages and review a number of times, and convinced myself that I need not
search any further. I ordered one.
In case you don't read ST Informer, let me take some time to briefly
give you an idea what this monitor is like. The Omnimon Rainbow, like all
multisync monitors, gives you the capability to use all three resolutions
within one monitor. You cannot switch between color and mono from the
"Set Preferences" option on the desktop, but utilize a switcher that comes
with the monitor that is attached to what Omnimon calls the OMNIX con-
troller box. All the available cables go from either your ST to the OMNIX
or from the monitor to the OMNIX. Attached to the box is a two-button
wired remote switch. All you have to do to switch resolutions is to touch
the appropriate mode desired: color or mono. On doing so, your computer
will perform a warm reset and the chosen resolution will come up. Very
simple, and painless. The OMNIX is also equipped with an audio output
jack, so you can hook your monitor to your stereo or other speaker
source.
The Rainbow is much different than either of the two available Atari
monitors. First of all, the monitor screen is larger than normal monito-
rs: it's a 14-inch screen, while I believe the Atari monitors are either
12 or 13-inch. The Rainbow is also mounted on a tilt and swivel base.
The Atari monitors have excellent clarity on both color and mono; but I've
found very little difference with the Rainbow. Some people say there's a
little less sharpness with the Rainbow, and some say it's as sharp, or
better. I can't tell any differences.
Operating and adjustment controls are either located on the back or in
front under the bottom right corner. In the front are the contrast and
brightness controls. Located on the back are the power switch, V-Size
(vertical size), V-Position (adjusts vertical position of display), H-Pos-
ition (adjusts horizontal position of display), power cable connector,
analog video connector, and a "text mode" switch. I have no idea what the
text mode switch does, but it supposedly only works with a PC; there's
nothing in the manual about it.
As I mentioned early on, I bought this monitor primarily because of
the review and especially because it was "plug and play". Well, when I
received the monitor, I realized plug and play had its limitations. It
only took me a few minutes to hook up the monitor. It probably took me
longer to untangle all the cables to my color monitor and disconnect it
from my machine than it did to hook up the Rainbow! Once I hooked it up,
I powered it up and was immediately disappointed. What I saw was a fuzzy
green-tinted medium resolution screen. It looked terrible. I tried every
adjustment possible, but I couldn't clear it up. I hit the switch to go
to mono to see if that was any better, but either the switch didn't work,
or something else was drastically wrong. I read and re-read the manual
from cover to cover. There was no explanation for this problem. Since
it was the weekend, I couldn't even call WuzTek for help. I was devas-
tated. I left messages on Delphi describing my problems, but no one had a
solution. Most people said that my monitor was defective and recommended
that I ship it back. I packed it up, and put my color monitor back on-
line.
I called WuzTek from work (I couldn't wait to get home and call). I
explained my problems. As soon as I said "green tint", the rep knew what
the problem was. It was verified when he asked me what version of TOS my
machine was, and how old the ST was. I should tell you that I have an
early model 520 ST with TOS 1.0. I was told the Rainbow didn't work on
this model ST. My first thoughts were why wasn't I told the Rainbow
wouldn't work on all ST models. Before I ordered the monitor, I asked if
the Rainbow was compatible with the 520; I was told that it was. That's
all I had to know. Okay, I have an old ST and the Rainbow; was there
anything I could do to make it work? I was told my ST had to be modified
because the Rainbow needed to draw power from the monitor port. On the
older 520s, the monitor port was grounded, so no power was available. Uh
oh, this was getting technical and I had no idea what to do. The rep gave
me step-by-step instructions over the phone. After about the second step,
I lost him completely. I asked if he could send me the instructions by
mail, and he promised to do so immediately. Now, I waited, knowing that
even once I got the instructions there was little I could do myself.
Then I thought of my friend from whom I lost the deal with the other
monitor. He wasn't a close friend, so I sent out a feeler with my broth-
er-in-law, who knew him better. We left a few messages online, and we
set up the time to make the modification. Now all I needed was to rec-
eive the instructions from WuzTek. It was getting late, so I called
WuzTek back and asked if they could FAX the instructions to me. I recei-
ved the two-page instructions the next morning. What was surprisingly
ironic to me when I saw the instructions was that the instructions were
pre-designed. That meant that WuzTek was previously aware of the prob-
lem, but hadn't told me that when I called about compatibility problems.
That bothered me a little.
The instructions included two schematics, and a description of the
problem with the steps to rectify it. I was starting to feel better.
Once I got the monitor and my 520 to my friend, we discovered WuzTek's
solution wasn't entirely correct. There was more to it than the solution
provided. Fortunately, my friend had the knowledge to circumvent this.
Just so you don't think my friend is inexperienced, let me state that he's
a registered Atari developer and he's had a lot of experience inside STs
and other hardware. He knows what he's doing.
Let me spell out the problem, and WuzTek's solution. I will then add
Joe Mardo's solution and comments. With all of this information, you
should have no fears about getting the Rainbow if you have an early ST.
Most Atari dealers who do repairs should be able to make any necessary
modifications to your machine should it warrant them, and inexpensively.
WuzTek states that the problem is that the "OMNIX will not switch
resolution, OMNIX stays in one resolution and the screen is tinted." The
reason is that "there is no power source on the monitor jack. On some
very early 520STs, Atari cut off the 12V power that is connected to the
monitor jack. If you are one of the early 520ST owners, there is a good
chance that you may encounter this problem." The solution: "You will need
to connect a jumper wire from the pin number 8 of the monitor jack to a
+12V power source. The easiest way to do this would be to work on the
solder side of the motherboard. Locate the resister [sic] array next to
the power transformer of the power input connector. The right hand side
of the fourth resister [sic] (C103) away from the transformer gives you
+12V. Check with a voltmeter before soldering a wire to this post.
Connect in series a resistor [sic] of at least 2K ohms and hook the other
end to pin number 8 of the monitor jack." That's it.
HERE'S WHAT JOE MARDO EXPLAINED, AND DID:
"A friend of mine recently purchased an Omnimon monitor for the Atari
ST, brought it home and connected it to his 520ST only to find that the
resolution switch would not work and the monitor displayed a strong green
raster background with very fuzzy text. After several calls to WuzTek and
receipt of a fax'ed Tech note, we proceeded to rectify the problem. These
notes are intended to clarify the situation and save the installer some
time by directing him immediately to the solution."
"It appears that WuzTek's external box for resolution change requires
power be drawn from the computer. Specifically, there must be +12V avail-
able on pin 8 of the video connector.
Unfortunately, on many early 520's, pin 8 is tied to ground. This
connection to ground is underneath the video connector in the 520 on the
top motherboard. You must CAREFULLY remove the video connector and con-
nect +12V to pin 8 thru a 2K ohm resistor on the bottom side of the moth-
erboard. I picked the +12V from pin 14 of the 1488 chip (U14 on some
machines) because it is closely located to the video connector. Use a
piece of shrink tubing or other insulating mechanism around the resistor
to ensure it doesn't come in contact with any other circuitry!"
"There you have it! Not a difficult modification, just a little tough
removing the video connector without damaging the motherboard. If you're
not experienced in delicate de-soldering operations, then I'd strongly
recommend that you take the machine to an Atari dealer or qualified
technician."
A few side notes to let you know what else is involved when and if you
decide to purchase the Rainbow, or any other multisync monitor. First of
all, unlike your Atari monitors, multisync monitors have no speaker(s) or
volume controls. If you want sound, and I'd imagine most of you would at
one time or another, you need to purchase an external speaker. The Rain-
bow's OMNIX box includes a speaker jack. I suggest that you get an ampli-
fied external speaker. The one I got was a Radio Shack (MPS-5) and it was
just under $20.00. The problem I had hooking up this speaker was that
the audio jack doesn't fit tightly into the OMNIX box. To get a secure
connection, I had to "shave" a little off the plastic end of the jack for
a tight fit. It works fine.
Another "addition" that comes with the monitor is some software. This
disk includes SX.PRG (Softswitch) for use with Intersect Software's Revol-
ver program; and also Atari's Mouse Accelerator II program. An accessory
is reported to be forthcoming which will allow you to toggle between
resolutions from the desktop instead of using the hardware switcher.
For those of you who need a color and mono monitor, whether for space
restrictions or ease of use all in one monitor, I highly recommend the
Omnimon Rainbow multisync monitor. It has made my life a lot easier; and
it has been one of my best hardware purchases ever. The folks at WuzTek
were very supportive and understanding. Even though my problem was per-
haps avoidable, they did provide me with the necessary information to
rectify it. They even offered to make the modifications for me, but I
didn't want to ship my machine out to California. You won't be sorry when
you get Rainbow-cized!!
________________________________________________________
> STReport CONFIDENTIAL¿ "ATARI NEWS FIRST!"
=====================
- Sunnyvale, CA ATARI TO ATTEND CEPS!
-------------
Regarding April 8th-->11th; those are the dates for the CEPS (Cor-
porate Electronic Publishing Systems) show at McCormick place in Chicago.
We do plan on attending that one. It's a big-ee :-) Bill Rhebock.
- San Diego, CA TT030 UPGRADE UNIQUE, BUT EASY!
-------------
About configurations of TT's that could use some hard data is memory:
you can't buy a 2MB TT and some SIMMs and get an 8MB TT out of it. The ST
RAM of a TT doesn't use SIMMs, and the TT RAM uses SIMMs, but you can only
get the daughter board and memory controller from Atari. The RAM is the
primary cost, of course, but the custom chip is also expensive. It would
probably not pay to buy the board and controller from us with empty sock-
ets and then buy your own RAM. It is certainly not the case that you can
buy just RAM and upgrade your TT.
- Minnetonka, MN MONITERM -> NO LONGER MODIFIES UNITS
--------------
The Tech support and Service departments at Moniterm have made it
known that as of three weeks ago, they no longer do modifications to their
monitors. The reason; "it takes too much time and is'nt worth it to them
to do any more modifications." A letter writing campaign to convince the
policy makers at Moniterm that they should either modify or provide an
upgrade kit with instructions to those faithful users who have invested
in their monitors is definately in order....
___________________________________________________________
> MULTIBYTE STR InfoFile¿ Casey Units are shipping!
============
MULTIBYTE INC.
ATARI STACY BATTERY PRODUCTS
============================
PRESS RELEASE
Multibyte Inc, manufacturer of the Atari Stacy Battery products and
cases, is ALIVE and doing WELL. The products we are currently manufac-
turing
are:
CASEY Plus - semi rigid powered case for ZXthe Atari Stacy computer.
Allows for the use of the Stacy and cartridges devices while
in the case. Comes with 4.5 hour battery, case and battery
charging adaptor. SRP $368.00
CASEY - semi rigid powered case for the Atari Stacy computer only.
Comes with 4.5 hour battery, case, and battery charging
adaptor. SRP $348.00
CASEY Jr. - soft carry case (unpowered) for the Atari Stacy
SRP $135.00
CASEY Jr. Internal Battery - 2.8 hour internal battery pack that
fits inside battery compartment the Stacy computer. Comes
with battery pack and charging adaptor. Does not require
modification of computer. SRP $198.00
Our Casey line of products DO NOT void Atari Corporation's Stacy
warranty. NOTE: all time tests have been made on a Atari Stacy 4 using
floppy access, hard drive tests, memory tests running consecutively with
out a screen saver. Times will vary on different computer models.
This product line has been under development since December of 1989.
This project has had a number of setbacks due to the complexity of the
engineering for the battery packs, the charging adaptors, and custom
building the cases. Due to vendor supply problems, we have been unable to
meet our production needs until now.
In the past our suppliers have proven to be unreliable and unable to
meet our demands until recently (anger has it's uses). Fortunately these
little (lengthy) and (extremely) costly delays are over as of February
5,1991. Our shipments are due to come in on a regular schedule.
We received our first production shipment of batteries and chargers
January 31, 1991. These products will be shipping to our customers star-
ting February 1, 1991. If you have paid for and not recieved your product
by February 10th, 1991 PLEASE call us immediately so that we may correct
our error. If you have product on backorder and have not recieved it by
March 1,1991 let us know! Right now things are extremely hectic and we now
have over 150 backorders to process please hang in there. We are shipping
product as fast as it is assembled.
I would like to take a moment to thank each and every customer for their
patience, trust, comments, suggestions, complaints, and perserverance. I
would also like to apologize to our loyal and frustrated customers from
the depth of our hearts for the frustration and gray hair we have caused.
Please accept this apology for the delay in processing your orders. After
6 months of waiting, false hopes, and broken delivery dates we are star-
ting to get things rolling properly. Forgive us our transgressions (plea-
se?).
Thank you for your patronage and if you have any questions, sugges-
tions, comments, or complaints please call (703) 406-9139 anytime between
9:00am and 9:00 pm EST Monday through Friday.
Sincerely,
Johnna Ogden
President
________________________________________________________
> TRACKER/ST 2.5 STR InfoFile¿ TRACKER ST UPGRADED!
===========================
ANNOUNCING TRACKER/ST 2.5!
==========================
Step Ahead Software is pleased to announce TRACKER/ST v2.5, the latest
update to our popular mailing list/mail merge/person tracking software.
Version 2.5 of Tracker/ST incorporates many of the suggestions we've
received from our registered owners. Here is a summary of some of the more
important improvements we've made to our program:
>>>Tracker/ST now supports WordFlair II!
The biggest change to Tracker/ST is that our program now
fully supports WordFlair II, the exciting new document
processor from Goldleaf Publishing. Now you can use
Tracker/ST to print mailing labels and keep track of people
for business or home needs, and then export your names from
Tracker for use with WordFlair II's powerful merging
capabilities (which allow you to incorporate various fonts,
images, and dynamic graphic and calculated regions). The
combination of Tracker/ST and WordFlair II just can't be
beat! Of course, Tracker still has its own powerful mail
merge system for those times when you don't need the features
of WordFlair II. WordFlair II owners: look for a SPECIAL
OFFER coupon for Tracker/ST in your WordFlair II package.
>>>Tracker/ST now supports the Atari TT in all resolutions!
We've just finished new screens for the Atari TT's new higher
resolution color screens (640 x 480 in 16 colors). The new
screens are beautiful! Tracker/ST runs perfectly on the TT
and at a much faster clip.
>>>Tracker/ST's convenient Quick Letter has been improved!
By order of Bill Rehbock at Atari, it is now possible to add
a template while in Tracker's Quick Letter area, and not just
from the Power Station. Also, the Quick Letter now makes use
of the offsets you've selected for a mail merge. This makes
using Quick Letters with printed letterhead even faster than
it was in the past.
>>>Tracker/ST now incorporates the Country field in mail merges
and Quick Letters!
Bowing to the will of our international users, Tracker/ST's
automatic Merge and Quick Letter functions now include the
Country field.
>>>CodeKey files included free of charge!
We've worked overtime to create a bunch of nifty CodeKey
files which make Tracker/ST even faster to use. Now, by
purchasing CodeKeys from CodeHead Software and using our
TRACKER.KEY files, you can string together a series of
Tracker actions so they'll run with a single keypress! No, we
don't get a commission on CodeKey sales, but we do think it's
a nifty program and one which makes Tracker/ST even more
wonderful to use. CodeKey files are included for every single
resolution (Monochrome, ST Medium Res color, Moniterm and TT
Hi Res, and TT Medium Res), and separate files are included
for floppy and hard drive users.
In addition to these changes numerous tweaking has been done to our code
to make Tracker/ST sleeker and more solid than ever before. The update is
completely finished and we will begin shipping v2.5 on Wednesday, February
13th, 1991. Best of all, Tracker/ST's suggested retail price remains only
$79.95.
UPGRADE POLICY:
After 2 free upgrades, we will now begin charging a very small
processing fee for new versions of Tracker/ST. Registered users
may upgrade by sending a check for $7.50 along with their name,
address and daytime phone number (phone number required), along
with their Tracker/ST serial number, to:
Step Ahead Software
Tracker/ST Upgrade
496-A Hudson Street, Suite F39
New York City, NY 10014
If you wish to upgrade and have not sent in your registration card,
include your card with your upgrade order.
Those who have purchased Tracker/ST in the past 30 days will be upgra-
ded free of charge. Please enclose a dated sales receipt, filled in regis-
tration card, and your phone number with your free upgrade request.
Tracker/ST is the leading mailing list/mail merge/person tracking
software for the Atari ST and TT series of computers. Ideal for home and
business use, the program features an unlimited number names in its mai-
ling lists, unlimited notes for each person in those lists (notes are not
limited to a few words), label printing to all dot matrix, daisy wheel and
laser printers, a built in mail merge system, a unique "almost form let-
ter" Quick Letter function and much much more. For a demo disk or for
answers to any questions about Tracker/ST please contact us at 212-627-58-
30.
Nevin Shalit
President, Step Ahead Software, Inc.
February 7th, 1991
_____________________________________________________________
> Hard Disks STR InfoFile¿ Affordable Mass Storage....
=======================
NEW LOW PRICES! & MORE MODELS!!
===============================
ALL SPECIALS
** EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY! **
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 ADSCSI+ HOST ADAPTERS * FULL SCSI COMMAND SET SUPPORTED *
* SCSI EMBEDDED CONTROLLER MECHANISMS *
Conventional Shoe Box
Model Description Autopark Price
==================================================
SGN3038 31Mb 28ms 3.5" Y 419.00
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 @ 16 - 33ms)
CALL FOR SUPER SAVINGS ON ALL OUR OTHER CUSTOM UNITS
FROM 30mb 28MS @ $419.00!
Ask about our "REBATE SPECIALS"
--==*==--
*** SHIPPING AND INSURANCE INCLUDED IN COMPLETE UNIT PRICES! ***
============================================
* SYQUEST 44MB (#555)>> ABCO "44" << REMOVABLE MEDIA DRIVE *
- SYQUEST 44 MB DRIVE - ICD ST ADVANTAGE PLUS H/A
- ICD Utility Software - 3' DMA Cable
- Fan & Clock - Multi-Unit Power Supply
(1) 44 MB Syquest Cart.
COMPLETELY ASSEMBLED AND READY TO RUN!
--->> SPECIAL NOW ONLY __$ 719.00__ <<---
EXTRA CARTS: $ 79.50
DRIVE MECH ONLY: $ 439.95
*** SPECIAL SYQUEST OFFER!! BUY WITH A FRIEND! ***
ORDER YOUR CUSTOM SYQUEST UNIT NOW AND GET A SECOND COMPLETE UNIT!
***** for $75.00 LESS! *****
* TWIN SYQUEST 44MB REMOVABLE MEDIA DRIVES ... PROGRAMMER'S DELIGHT *
SPECIALLY PRICED ** $1329.00 **
* SYQUEST 44MB REMOVABLE MEDIA DRIVE AND HARD DRIVE COMBINATIONS *
- Syquest 44 Model [555] and the following hard drives -
50mb SQG51 $ 939.00 30mb SQG38 $ 819.00
65mb SQG09 $ 969.00 85mb SQG96 $1059.00
LOWBOY - STANDARD - DUAL BLOWER CABINETS
CUSTOM CONFIGURATIONS AVAILABLE
Listed above are a sampling of the systems available.
Prices also refl
ect 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 - AT/PC SPEED - GCR
LARGER units are available - (special order only)
*>> NO REPACKS OR REFURBS USED! <<*
- Custom Walnut WOODEN Cabinets - TOWER - AT - XT Cabinets -
* SLM 804 Replacement Toner Cartridge Kits $42.95 *
Replacement Drums; CALL
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
____________________________________________________________
> STR "Signs of the Times"¿
========================
"Please, pray for the safe return of all our Folks in Desert Storm!"
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
STReport International Online Magazine¿
Available through more than 10,000 Private BBS systems WorldWide!
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
STReport¿ "YOUR INDEPENDENT NEWS SOURCE" February 08, 1991
16/32bit Magazine copyright ½ 1987-91 No.7.06
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
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.
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
