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Silicon Times Report Issue 0716
*---== ST REPORT INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE ==---*
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
"The Original 16/32bit Online Magazine"
from
STR Publishing Inc.
""""""""""""""""""
April 19, 1991 No.7.16
==========================================================================
STReport International Online Magazine¿
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Jacksonville, Florida
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R.F. Mariano
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> 04/19/91: STReport #7.16¿ The Original 16/32 bit Online Magazine!
-------------------------
- The Editor's Desk - CPU REPORT - MAC REPORT
- NEW 68000 Chip - Ear Candy - Michigan Bell?
- Hayes Pocket Modem - Quantum Pro! - UG BBS - Any Good?
- Multi-Gem - PORTFOLIO NEWS - STR Confidential
-* ATARI'S MEGA4/50 STE *-
-* TALON'S S-CHARGER 286 -> ON THE WAY! *-
-* IS IT CLASS A or B? *-
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ST REPORT INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE¿
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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
Here we are a week after CEPS Spring/91, and most of the Atari com-
munity is still charged up over the new software and hardware shown recen-
tly in Chicago. The amount of inquiries STReport has received about Avant
Vektor and Studio Junior and the other fine products shown has been out-
standing. The majority of inquiries were from users wanting to know where
and how to purchase these two programs. For the time being, you may call
TradeiT in Germany and they will handle your orders and info inquiries,
ask for Micheal Wagner. The number for voice; 06071-41089 and for FAX;
06071-41919. Both of these programs ARE ingeniously written and are very
powerful, they fill a gap that has long plagued ST DTP enthusiasts.
The Mega STe is shipping, the new monitors are shipping, the TT030 is
shipping, Atari is getting itself back to the "front and center" posture
all of us have long waited for. And what do we hear from "Loyal" Atari
dealers on the east coast of the USA?? Gripes.... more gripes and still
more! No regional rep, moaning over the fact that Atari computers are
available through wholesale distributors, and finally dispersions being
cast about other dealers who are involved in alledged "deep discounting".
Recently, I heard the screaming and wailing all the way down here in
Florida when they found out J&R's $429.00 price for the 1040STe. Oh well!
Did someone bring the cheese and crackers? Those guys brought plenty of
"whine".
The new computers are shipping and that's great news. Folks, please
remember that for Atari to excel, they must sell mucho machines and they
simply are not going to do this through a few small "loyal" dealers.
STReport has noticed that one dealer is very busy setting the pace and a
fine example of positive thinking, he has been extolling the wonders of
the TT.. He has the right idea, instead of wallowing in lake of salty
tears like some of the others, he has tight grip on the reigns of his
future and is definitely headed in the right direction. Hats off to this
fine Texas dealer, three cheers for the right attitude! The others should
only know it takes more effort to squawk, than it does to find a positive
note and get with the program.
Atari did respond to the knashing of teeth and bellowing of dealers a
few years ago, when they took the ST out of wholesale distribution, it
almost put Atari out of the computer business! Its sad to see that a few
vocal kvetchers are still around. I am confident of one thing, that
period in time taught Atari a big lesson and as a result, the one-sided
interests of a few dealers will not decide the fate of the entire user-
base. Besides, I am sure these "vastly experienced entrepreneurs" will
soon find they have not won any friends or influenced people..
The STe power is soon to be in most areas of the country, be sure to
check an STe out soon, especially the MEGA4 STe.. its awesome. Actually,
its the "baby" TT!
Thanks for your solid support!
Ralph.........
Speaking of beautiful babies...... Compuserve's Head ST Forum Sysop
Ron Luks and his lovely wife Dawn have a wonderful little girl to be
all bubbly over and brag about. Jennifer Anne Luks was born April 12,
1991 at 9:41pm. Jennifer is a very healthy and robust 7lbs 12oz at
birth. Both mother and baby are doing simply mahvalous!! Its the
father who is a wreck! Well, not really, folks, Ron is quite proud of
his gorgeous baby daughter. Congratulations!! Mazel Tov!
TODAY'S NEWS ..TODAY!
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
> STReport's Staff The regulars and this week's contributors!
================
Publisher - Editor
------------------
Ralph F. Mariano
Staff Editors:
--------------
Michael Arthur Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr. Dana P. Jacobson
Lucien Oppler Brad Martin Walter Daniel
Oscar Steele Robert Allbritton John Szczepanik
Contributing Correspondants:
----------------------------
Michael Lee Richard Covert Roger Stevens
Brian Converse Oliver Steinmeier Ed Krimen
Andrew Learner
IMPORTANT NOTICE
================
Please, submit letters to the editor, articles, reviews, etc...
via E-Mail to:
Compuserve.................... 70007,4454
GEnie......................... ST.REPORT
Delphi........................ RMARIANO
BIX........................... RMARIANO
FIDONET....................... 112/35
FNET.......................... NODE 350
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COMPUSERVE WILL PRESENT $15.00 WORTH OF COMPLIMENTARY ONLINE TIME
to the Readers of;
ST REPORT INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE¿
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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 (April 19)
Forum members and fellow staff of the Atari Forums wish to congratulate
SYSOP Ron Luks and his wife Dawn on the birth of their daughter, Jennifer
Anne. Jennifer was born on Friday, April 12th at 9:42 PM. Best wishes to
the new Mommy and Daddy!
DOUBLE CLICK SOFTWARE
Double Click has announced the winners of their "Name the software" con-
test. Please read CONTST.WIN in LIBRARY 13 of the Atari Vendors Forum (GO
ATARIVEN) for details.
Also be sure to check out DCTOPR.ARC, DC Topper, another PROGRAM OF THE
WEEK from Double Click Software available in LIBRARY 13 of the Atari
Vendors Forum (GO ATARIVEN). DC Topper will automagically top the window
under the mouse. Best at the desktop, but can be turned on in programs.
NEW UPLOADS POLICY CHANGE
Effective immediately, the sysops will adopt the following policy for new
uploads to the Atari ST and 8-Bit Forums:
All new uploads will be placed ONLY in the NEW UPLOADS LIBRARY for a
period of 2-3 weeks. After this time, they will be MOVED to the appropri-
ate long term library and deleted from LIB-1.
The old policy was to immediately place 2 copies of new files online. One
in the NEW UPLOADS LIB and another in the long-term lib, giving users the
option to download from either location. This old policy was wasteful of
storage and confusing to some members who downloaded both copies thinking
they were different versions.
We realize that this will require everyone to scan the NEW UPLOADS LIB in
addition to the other LIBs when searching for a specific type of file, but
this is a temporary problem that will be eliminated when future versions
of the CIS software will allow members to scan all files in all LIBS from
a single point (a feature that is on the "enhancement" list).
ATARI USERS GROUP LISTING
Modems are nice, but nothing beats getting together realtime with hometown
folks who share your interest! The 1991 list of Registered Atari User
Groups is now available in file USERGP.ARC, LIBRARY 1 of the Atari 8-Bit
Forum (GO ATARI8).
ATARI PORTFOLIO FORUM NEWS
Don't miss Walter Daniel's FORUM NOTES files in LIBRARY 1 of the Atari
Portfolio Forum (GO APORTFOLIO) for news on the latest happenings and
events in our online community.
THE ATARI PORTFOLIO FORUM ON COMPUSERVE
HAS BEEN DESIGNATED AN
OFFICIAL SUPPORT SITE BY ATARI CORPORATION
"GO APORTFOLIO TO ACCESS THE ATARI PORTFOLIO FORUM"
NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE
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> CPU REPORT
==========
Issue #107
----------
By Michael Arthur
Dream Systems IX
=================
UNIX MACHINES, RISC WORKSTATIONS, AND 68040 MACS
------------------------------------------------
Change is the only constant in the computer industry. As the
capabilities of microcomputers increased during the 1980's, they began to
provide the functionality, versatility, and speed of the workstation
industry. Unix, for example, was once the domain of workstations and
non-IBM minicomputers, but is now competing to become the operating
system of the future for the microcomputer industry. However, while
microcomputers evolved characteristics of workstations (including cost),
many workstation companies began making low-end workstations, in an at-
tempt to combine the innovations microcomputers had fostered, such as the
idea of graphical user interfaces, with the inherent versatility of works-
tation-class machines. RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Circuitry) chips are
an offshoot of this development, as their increased speed and use of
modern chip technologies gave workstations the power of small mainframes.
However, now that conventional CISC (Complex Instruction Set Circuitry)
microprocessors, such as the Intel 80486 and Motorola 68040 chips, are as
powerful as the best RISC chips, the choice to determine the best microco-
mputers only becomes more difficult.
In this essay, a list of "Dream Systems", or powerful configurations
of current computer systems, has been formed in order to analyze the
potential of current computer systems and hardware peripherals. I have
chosen not to include variables like operating systems and software in
this analysis, and to concentrate on the actual computers' hardware
capabilities, 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
complete computer system, software can generally be easily added or ported
to a computer system. As such, the focus of this essay is to "spec out"
the best hardware with which one could use a given operating system or
software package. Furthermore, since many of the high-end microcomputers
featured here are beginning to rival workstations in both performance and
price, this essay includes some low-end workstations in its analysis, in
order to both study the state of high-end microcomputers as compared to
low-end workstations, and to see whether microcomputers can outperform
some workstations in certain areas.
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 Retail Prices Shown.)
System #1: Proteus 486/33 with EISA Expansion Bus
---------
Total Cost of System: $13,799.00 (US Currency)
This IBM Compatible is a system with a 33 MHZ 80486 chip, 8 Megabytes
of RAM onboard, and 8 EISA Expansion Slots. The Proteus also comes with
1.2 MB and 1.44 MB disk drives, a 128K CPU Cache, and a SuperVGA display
system as standard equipment. To boost this system's networking
capabilities, one could add an ethernet port via 3Com's Etherlink II Card.
For this system's disk storage needs, a SmartConnex/EISA Floppy &
Hard Disk controller from DTP Inc., and an HP3176 Magneto-Optical Drive
made by Hewlett-Packard (which can store 650 Megabytes of data per Remova-
ble Cartridge), seems suitable for a Dream System. Another boost to such
a system's performance would be InfoChip's Expanz data compression card,
which would double the cartridge drive's storage capacity to around 1.3
Gigabytes of data per Cartridge.
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 monitor.
So with this system, you would have:
Proteus 486/33 EISA w/SuperVGA support (Cost: $5700.00)
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: $1500.00)
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 IIci with Radius 68040 Board -
---------
Total Cost: $19,086.00 (US Currency)
The Macintosh IIci uses a 25 MHZ 68030 with a 25 MHZ 68882 Math
Chip, Five 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 (San-
der-Woz Integrated Machine) Disk Controller chip to allow the Mac to
read/write to MS-DOS and OS/2 formatted disks. To boost total memory to 8
Megs of RAM, one would add 3 1-Megabyte SIMM RAM chips. To boost system
processing speed, one could add Radius' Rocket Accelerator. It uses a 25
MHZ 68040 chip (which is several times faster than a 25 MHZ 68030 chip),
and features a display list processor for speeding up CAD applications.
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), Sigma Designs'
DoubleUp data compression board (which can effectively double the capacity
of a hard drive), and an Adaptec Nodem Ethernet LAN Interface Unit.
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 IIci w/5 Megs of RAM (Cost: $5300.00)
Radius Rocket 68040 Accelerator (Cost: $3500.00)
3 sets of 1 Megabyte SIMM Memory Chips (Cost: $156 total)
Mirror RM600 Magneto-Optical Cartridge Drive (Cost: $3500.00)
Sigma Designs' DoubleUp data compression board (Cost: $230.00)
Adaptec Nodem Ethernet Unit (Cost: $500.00)
NEC Multisync 4D Color Monitor (Cost: $1400.00)
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: $11,000.00 LIST (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, a
Matrix C32 VME Color Board (which supports 800*600 resolution and
displaying 256 colors simultaneously out of a 16 million color palette),
and an NEC Multisync 4D Monitor for the Matrix board.
To boost such a system's storage capacity, one could also add a
Hewlett 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)
Matrix C32 Color Board (Estimated Cost: $1000.00)
NEC Multisync 4D Color Monitor (Cost: $1400.00)
Hewlett Packard 650 Megabyte Removable Drive (Cost: $4300.00)
ICD Hard Disk Host Adapter (Cost: $250.00)
(As Rio Datel Computers is in the process of importing the Matrix C32
board from Europe, the cost stated above is only an approximation, and its
actual list price in the USA will, more than probably be different.)
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)
Matrix Video Board Resolutions:
800*600 with 256 Displayable Colors out of 16 Million
1280*960 in monochrome (also can display 256 colors in this mode)
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: NeXTCube workstation w/NeXTDimension 24-bit board
---------
Total Cost of System: $13,000.00
Made by NeXT Inc., the NeXTCube workstation comes with a 25 MHZ
Motorola 68040 Chip having a built-in Math Coprocessor, 8 Megs of RAM
onboard, and 4 Expansion Slots as standard. It also comes with a 2.88 Meg
Disk Drive, a 256 Meg Magneto-Optical cartridge Drive, and an Ethernet
port as standard. To boost its graphics capabilities, one would wish to
add the NeXTDimension 32-bit graphics board, which displays 16 million
colors simultaneously at a 1120*832 resolution.
So with this system you have:
NeXTCube system w/8 Megs of RAM (Cost: $10,000.00)
NeXTDimension 32-bit color board (Cost: $3000.00)
NeXT Resolution: 1120*832 in Monochrome
With NeXTDimension Board: 1120*832 with 16 million colors displayable
simultaneously
Here, the Dream System are graphically shown:
Dream Systems List:
(Comparison of each Systems' Optimal Features)
_________________________________________________________________________
Dream |Main Chips,|MHZ Rate|Data |Expansion|Graphics Displays/ |
System |Megs of RAM|(Speed) |Storage | Slots |Best Resolution(s) |
-----------|-----------|--------|----------|---------|-------------------|
IBM 486 |Intel 80486| 33 MHZ |1 Gigabyte|Four (6) |512*480,16 Million |
System |Eight Megs | |Tape Drive|EISA Bus |1024*768,256 Colors|
-----------|-----------+--------+----------+---------+-------------------|
Mac IIci | 68040 | 25 MHZ |1 Gigabyte| Two (3) |640x400, 256 Colors|
System |Eight Megs | |Tape Drive|NuBus |1024x768,16 Million|
-----------|-----------+--------+----------+---------+-------------------|
Atari TT030|68030/68882| 33 MHZ |650 Meg |Zero (1) |800*600, 256 Colors|
System |Eight Megs | |Tape Drive|VME Bus |1280*960,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)|
-----------|-----------|--------|----------|---------|-------------------|
NeXTCube | 68040 | 25 MHZ |256 Meg | Two (4) | 1120*832 |
System |Eight Megs | |Tape Drive|NuBus | 16 Million Colors |
-----------'-------------------------------------------------------------'
In the Data Storage column, Tape stands for removable storage (like
Magneto-Optical cartridges or Syquest cartridges), 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 |11-14 MIPS | 33 Megabytes| 1.2 - 1.5| 32 Bits | 128K SRAM |
System | | Per Second | MFLOPS | Wide | |
-----------|-----------|-------------|----------|-----------|------------|
Mac IIci |10-12 MIPS | 10 Megabytes| N/A | 32 Bits | 32K SRAM |
System | | Per Second | | Wide | |
-----------|-----------|-------------|----------|-----------|------------|
Atari TT030|5 - 7 MIPS | N/A | N/A | 16/24 Bits| 32K SRAM |
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 | |
-----------|-----------|-------------|----------|-----------|------------|
NeXTCube | N/A | 20 Megabytes| N/A | 32 Bits | None on |
System | | Per Second | | Wide | Motherboard|
-----------'-------------------------------------------------------------'
MFLOPS - Million Floating Point math Operations performed Per Second
SRAM - Static RAM memory (much faster than DRAM chips)
VAX MIPS is a unit of measuring a computer's Integer processing
speed. It is equal to approximately 1750 Dhrystones per Second.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
IMPORTANT NOTICE!
=================
As a reader of STReport Online Magazine, you are entitled to take
advantage of a special DELPHI membership offer. For only $29.95 ($20 off
the standard membership price!), you will receive a lifetime subscription
to DELPHI, a copy of the 500-page DELPHI: THE OFFICIAL GUIDE and over $14
worth of free time.
NOTE: Special offers can be found in your favorite Atari magazines:
START CURRENT NOTES ST INFORMER
ATARI INTERFACE MAGAZINE
SIGNING UP WITH DELPHI
======================
Using a personal computer and modem, members worldwide access
DELPHI services via a local phone call
JOIN -- DELPHI
--------------
1. Dial 617-576-0862 with any terminal or PC and modem (at 2400 bps,
dial 576-2981).
2. At the Username prompt, type JOINDELPHI.
3. At the Password prompt enter STREPORT.
For more information call:
DELPHI Member Services at 1-800-544-4005
or
at 617-491-3393 from within Massachusetts or from outside the U.S.
DELPHI is a service of General Videotex Corporation of Cambridge, Mass.
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
--------------------
The 20/20 Advantage Plan IS FANTASTIC! And it features 20 hours
online for just $20 a month! The $20 is a monthly fee that covers your
first 20 hours online via direct dial into one of DELPHI's two direct-ac-
cess lines, or via a special Tymnet 20/20 Access code. It also gets you
additional hours at just $1.20 per hour. And you get free access to
several services on DELPHI as part of the Advantage Perks.
Other telecom services may have additional charges. Canadian Tymnet
users have an additional telecom charge. Office Time access (7 a.m. to 7
p.m., weekdays) may have an additional charge. And of course, other
restrictions may apply. But this is still an amazing deal!
For more information, contact DELPHI at 1-800-544-4005 and ask for
Member Services.
DELPHI- It's getting better all the time!
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
> CPU STATUS REPORT LATE BREAKING INDUSTRY-WIDE NEWS
=================
Issue #17
Compiled by: Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr.
- Buffalo, New York HEART DISEASE DIAGNOSIS
-----------------
In an attempt to help cardiologists to diagnose heart disease more
accurately, researchers at the State University of New York at Buffalo
are attempting to develop a new interactive computer vision technique.
The research, which is funded by a Biological Research Support Grant,
should eventually allow a computer to focus on a specific problem area,
namely the heart walls, in a digitized image of an echocardiogram. The
hope is that an approach can be developed whereby the computer will
automatically trace a moving image of the cardiac wall and make precise
measurements of it for analysis.
- Austin, Texas NEW LOW-COST CHIP LINE FROM MOTOROLA
-------------
Motorola is offering four new low-cost, 32-bit, embedded control micro-
pocessors which are based on their current 68000 family of micropro-
cessors. The new line will be tailored for applications such as laptop
and palmtop computers and laser printers, where manufacturing costs are
especially important.
To keep the cost low on the new chips, Motorola said it stripped away
all of the non-essential functions of the 68000, 68020, 68030 and 68040
processors, which are used in the Apple line of computers. The new chips
will range from $2.95 each in quantities of 10,000 to $160 each for the
most powerful version of the family.
- Stamford, Connecticut IBM FIGHTING A LOOSING BATTLE
---------------------
The Gartner Group, an information technology industry research, analysis
and consulting firm, predicts that by 1995, Microsoft Windows will have
41% of the new installation market share, while OS/2 will have only 21%,
and most of that will be to the large corporate market. Garner Group
predicts that IBM will not be successful in its efforts to encourage a
majority of users to move to OS/2.
Looking at other major vendors, Gartner predicts that Macintosh will
have 20 percent of the market in 1995, Unix will have six percent and
DOS will hang on to 10 percent of the market versus the 69 percent they
have now. Other operating systems will account for two percent.
- Peoria, Illinois ELECTRONIC MUSICIANS BLOW OWN HORN
----------------
To help advertise their own talents, a group of electronic musicians
have banded together and to produce their own publication, The Computer
Musician Coalition, who describe themselves as 'the nation's computer
music enthusiasts users group' has introduced 'Ear Candy.'
The publication describes electronic music compositions by electronic
music artists, and appears to concentrate primarily on instrumentals
composed using MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) technology,
although vocal offerings are also listed.
Volume One is a 30-page offering, listing at least 18 artists and their
works. Most artists have their own page which describes the music on
offer, and the individual tape prices, which range from $5 to $20.
The descriptions of the music are unique. Sally Daley's 'From Death To
Life' is described as "...a fusion of things... contemporary Classical,
the Romanticism resembling Mahler, plus a feeling of the beyond which is
realized in the sound effects used. Parts of it, especially sections 3
and 5, can be used very well as background for guided meditation."
The Ear Candy catalog is available through music and computer stores,
and a year subscription is priced at $5 for six issues. A sample issue
costs $1 which covers postage and handling. All compositions listed in
the catalog can be purchased direct from the Computer Musician
Coalition.
More information on how to get electronic compositions listed in Ear
Candy, or how to order the catalog, can be obtained from Ron Wallace at
Computer Musician Coalition, 1024 W.Willcox Ave., Peoria, IL 61604. The
telephone number is 309-685-4843.
- Lansing, Michigan NEWSPAPER ATTACKS MICHIGAN BELL LOBBYING
-----------------
Peter Luke, in an article in the Grand Rapids Press News Service, has
charged that Michigan Bell bought itself favorable treatment in the cur-
rent rewrite of the state's telecommunications law.
The article charges that Bell tripled its campaign contributions in the
year before the rewrite started, and that the chairwoman of a House
committee reviewing the bill was taking campaign checks from lobbyists
the morning of the first hearing. Also, the article alleges that Bell
has spent more than $1 million lobbying on the measure, loaning its
offices near the state Capitol to lawmakers for receptions, and giving
away phones to legislators after they listened to an elaborate sales
pitch on the bill.
Finally, Bell hired as lobbyists a former aid to governor John Engler,
Gail Torreano, and a legislative aide who months earlier helped draft
the phone law.
- Calgary, Alberta, Canada AMIGA EXPO PLANNED
------------------------
The Amiga Users of Calgary are getting ready to stage the first-ever
Amiga Expo on Sunday, May 5 at the Marlboro in Calagary, Canada. The
show is scheduled to include an appearance by Commodore Canada (showing
CDTV, Unix and multimedia demos), and seminar presentations by profes-
sionals who use Amigas. The organizers feel the event should appeal to
Amiga enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
- Cupertino, California APPLE POSTS A NICE GAIN
---------------------
Apple Computer cites a gain of approximately 85% in sales of its popular
Macintosh personal computer in its second fiscal quarter, compared to
the same quarter a year ago. This lead to net revenues increasing by 19%
and earnings per share increasing by 3%. Overseas sales continue to inc-
rease with international revenues accounted for 52 percent of total
revenues, compared to 47 percent during the second quarter of fiscal
1990.
"We have successfully launched Apple on a new course," said John
Sculley, chairman and chief executive officer, "While many challenges
remain ahead of us, we are addressing them from the most competitive
position in our history."
- Redmond, Washington FTC WIDENS MICROSOFT INVESTIGATION
-------------------
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has decided to expand the scope of
its investigation of Microsoft Corporation. The investigation is based
on third-party charges that the giant software firm allegations that
Microsoft is monopolizing the market for operating systems, operating
environments, computer software and computer peripherals for personal
computers.
The FTC, which investigates anti-trust and restraint of trade cases, is
apparently interested in whether Microsoft was intentionally restricting
the functionality and features of future versions of Windows.
- Armonk, New York IBM IN THE RED FOR THE FIRST TIME
----------------
For the first time in its corporate history, IBM has posted a loss in
revenue of 4.5% for the first quarter of 1991 compared to one year ago.
Much of it was due to a 20% loss from its normally profitable Japanese
wing. This resulted in an earnings-per-share of only $.93 compared with
$1.81 in 1990.
__________________________________________________________
> The Flip Side STR Feature "........A different viewpoint"
=========================
A LITTLE OF THIS, A LITTLE OF THAT
==================================
by Michael Lee
The old saying "in the Springtime, a young mans fancy turns to love" has
been replaced with "in the Springtime, a young mans fancy turns to get-
ting a hard drive or upgrading his old one" - or maybe, in this new com-
puter age, they are the one and the same?
Recently, Delphi and CIS have had a lot of discussion about hard drives,
upgrading hard drives and problems with hard drives. So this weeks issue
will be dominated by hard drive posts. I hope you find them interesting.
----------------
What else is needed to setup a ST hard drive system from scratch besides
the bare drive? Answer from Greg Wageman on CIS...
You need a Host Adaptor, power supply and case [and cables]...Supra
and ICD...both make Host Adaptors that will connect to the Atari DMA
(hard disk) port, and output SCSI commands to a 50-pin IDC connector
(SCSI 1 standard)...The whole setup will cost you about $220; $90 for
a case and power supply, and about $130 for the Host Adaptor. The
adaptors sold by the above-named companies come with formatting,
partitioning, boot and driver software.
From personal experience I think ICD has an edge both in the hardware
and software. Supra's product is a little less expensive. (I have one
of each.)
----------------
Comments about the new WordFlair II from Matt (BLACKICE) on Delphi...
I just got my copy of Wordflair II the other day and wanted to say
that it's neat. I had WordUp 3.0 and Flair is by far the better
program. I haven't worked it hard enough to find any bugs, but so far
it has tun flawlessly. If anybody is interested in a good crossbreed
wordprocessor and desktop publisher you might consider the new
Wordflair.
----------------
From Gary Gray (Megabyte Plus) on CIS...
Just for fun we benchmarked a drawing using DynaCadd on the TT, and
the same drawing on AutoCadd on a Sparstation. Guess what killed the
Sparcstation?
A 4-meg TT with no Fast ram, running the new DynaCadd with FPU
support redrew the Survey drawing 3 seconds. An 8-meg TT, running the
old Dynacadd without FPU support (with DynaCadd running in fast ram)
took 6 seconds. The Sparstation took 14 seconds. The new DynaCadd on
a TT with Fast Ram should redraw it in well under 2 seconds, maybe
less than one.
Autocadd and the SparcStation 18k, The TT and DynaCadd 3.5 K is maybe
14 times faster...
----------------
Bill Repetto with a 1040ST problem on CIS...
...my four year old 1040 ST is giving me the first problems I have
experienced with it. It will not boot! I get a TOS error 35 every
time I try to start it from disk. I have TOS 1.0 with a single double
sided floppy drive...
Reply from Bob Retelle (Sysop) on CIS...
...the first thing to try is the old standby of opening up your ST's
case and carefully pressing all the socketed IC chips back down into
their sockets. This includes all the square special chips, the TOS
ROM chips, and anything else that's not soldered down in place. The
floppy controller chip in my ST is soldered, but yours might be
socketed.
Some people recommend gently prying the chips up a little bit before
pressing them down (to help clean any oxidization from the contacts),
but I usually just give them a gentle push...If that doesn't fix it,
it may need a trip to the shop...
Reply from Michael D. Mortilla on CIS...
...the culprit maybe an auto program on your disk. You might try boot
without the disk in the drive. It will take the ST 45 seconds to
"self-boot" and the screen will be blank for that period of time,
*but* if the system does boot, you can open the directory on the disk
and kill the offending program. I'm not a programmer, but I use the
ST a lot. The only time I get TOS 35 errors is when I try to boot a
program intended for an IBM (which is why I think you might have an
auto boot problem!
Reply from Lee (Lexicor Sofware) on CIS...
There is yet another possible problem. Your floppy drive may not be
up to snuff. You might consider trying to get a new floppy drive.
They are cheap, easy to install and if you find the problem elsewhere
you will have a backup drive...We have had several older machines
fail in exactly this way, TOS error and all.
----------------
Question from Chris Scullion on CIS...
Anyone know where I can get a WD1772 chip? It's the floppy disk
controller and I need to replace mine.
Answer from Bob Retelle (Sysop) on CIS...
...you might try calling Best Electronics to see if they stock the
floppy controller chip...their phone number is: (408) 243-6950
Answer from Ron Shue on CIS...
You can get them from most mail order electronic houses since that is
a industry standard chip. You might try JDR or BG Micro out of
Computer Shopper.
----------------
Question from Kenneth A. Webb on CIS...
I am trying to determine if an Atari SH205 HD mechanism can be
replaced with a larger mechanism (40 - 60 megs)....
Answer from Richard Turner on CIS...
...the HD itself can be replaced. My brother...replaced the hard
drive in his SH205 with 2 higher capacity drives. The hard drive
controller card in the SH205 is a MFM I believe. You can replace the
HD itself with any MFM ST-506 HD. The ST-506 designation means any
standard IBM type hard drive. My brother is using Seagates I believe.
-----------------
Question from Gary Houser on CIS...
Where can one get a listing of Names & Addresses of Atari Usergroups?
I would like to contact several of them and haven't been able to find
a listing anywhere
Answer from Hal Dougherty on CIS...
Start Magazine has a list of user groups on this month's disk.
Answer from Keith Joins (Sysop) on CIS...
...you can also contact Atari directly. Get a hold of Bob Brodie, I
am sure he can get you some information.
----------------
Comments about Notator from Brian Campbell on CIS...
...I'll tell you that Notator on the ST platform has about the best
timing/resolution in the market, including the dedicated hardware
sequencers. Also, it will allow up to 64 simultaneous tracks
outputting to up to (I think) 80 separate MIDI channels (with the use
of some external stuff), plus allows for interfacing with SMPTE, and
even an adaptave groove and manual tempo adjustment, so the computer
can follow the band, rather that the undesirable option...
-----------------
From Kevin Engler on CIS concerning whether you can use a Seagate ST238R
IBM hard drive on a ST...
You can use the ST238R with an ST, but not the controller card,
simply because it's designed for an IBM's motherboard slots (which
the ST doesn't have). You still need a controller, host adapter (I
HIGHLY recommend ICD's), and a power supply. Unless you're cash flow
situation is really tight, I'd recommend going with a commercial
unit. As to which one, they're pretty similar, although you can't
beat ICD's support. Check with your local dealer (if you have one).
----------------
How one ST user uses his system (slightly edited). From HGM on Delphi...
I'm a college professor and use my ST for most of my work. I connect
to a VAX at school via Uniterm, one of the best VT-100 emulators
around. I use Word Perfect for my writing (it's quite a good program
and the files are portable to the ubiquitious clones). For my
records, I use Informer II (really nice database). To keep my grades,
I use OPUS (a fairly good spreadsheet). I am also director of a pro-
gram and faculty secretary, so I use DTP a fair amount. Mostly I use
PAGESTREAM.
All of the programs are quite good, the major limitations are imposed
by me, not by the hardware or software...DTP takes talent and design
ability. I doubt if the top-of-the-line IBM or MAC programs will do
more than PAGESTREAM, FLEETSTREET or CALAMUS. I AM sure that the ST
programs allow plenty of room to grow. The ads that show people
turning out dazzling copy the first time they use the new software
with all its bells and whistles is a joke. Kind of like thinking that
a new camera will turn you into a great photographer.
...I get more out of my computer, and do more with it than people
with 386's and MAC IIs -- mostly because they don't know how to use
their computers but knew that they wanted "power." I have fooled
around with getting one of the IBM emulators so I could run some of
the educational software, but it is easy enough to run that at the
school, and the ST/VAX combo that I use is really quite powerful...
----------------
Question from David L. Leon on CIS...
Has anyone heard any news on the Acer Multi-sync and the Atari STs? I
was just curious if anyone had any positive or negative feedback on
it.
Answer from Jim Ness (Sysop) on CIS...
...this is second hand, but those who have posted messages regarding
the ACER say that it works fine with the ST, but the mono mode is not
exceptionally sharp...with the mono mode being just a tad fuzzy, they
found it difficult to do any lengthy mono work...Basically, you get
what you pay for in multisynchs. The ACER is very reasonably priced.
----------------
Question (compiled) from Ron Luks (Sysop) on CIS...
I've been using Supra's auto-booting software for a while without any
problems. I've even added a Supra FD-10 (10Mb floppy disk) to my
system in addition to the regular HD.
Recently, my system does not recognize that one or both of the floppy
drives is attached at boot-up. When I try to access them from the
desktop, the little box pops up saying that this drive is not
active...Rebooting with the ctrl-alt-delete ALWAYS brings every drive
on line. Its just the initial powerup sequence that misses these. And
it doesn't always happen...I've checked all the cable connections and
they are solid...I'm using a MegaST4 with standard TOS 1.2...Does
anybody have any thoughts about this? It's annoying to have to
powerup twice each morning...
Some suggestions from Lee (Lexicor Sofware) on CIS...
Do you let your drives warm up a few seconds before booting? I have
found that with all the "junk" I run on our computers...ie Matrix
card/ISAC/ two color monitors, modems, etc...I will get a boot where
the polling of devices sometimes fails. You may just be the victim of
cold hardware.
There is one other possibility...your HD driver may not be finding
the right device ID in the eprom on your floppy controller. It should
have its own SCSI ID #. Do you have HDX 4.02? This advanced HD pack
has an install utility which will ensure that when you cold boot, the
system will poll and recognize all SCSI devices in the chain.
Also from Lee (Lexicor Sofware) about a similar problem with Syquest 44
removable media hard drives...
...Generally when adding the removable media (Syquest 44) type HD's
the software fails or even corrupts the fixed HD partition C with the
usual consequences.
To fix this problem you need the most recent HDX 4.0 Atari HD
utilities. You will have to install the new HDX software and also
install all logical drives. Then the problems you have will go away.
Your system will also see the changes in Media but will not tell you
so.
If you use the ICD HD Utilities then you will get the added benefit
of disk change alerts and better partition use.
We have had the same problems with each developer who changed over to
Removable media systems. The one thing that will never work is to try
and run a mixed system of both Surpra/Atari with Syquest HD's at the
same time, it is one or the other for now. I understand this will
change soon. Keep an eye pealed for an announcement from ICD.
----------------
Until next week.....
***********************************************************************
: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!! <-
GEnie is changing for the better. To make things easier, we're changing
the names for each level of service (beginning April 25, 1991). GEnie
Star*Services will now be known as GEnie*Basic. We haven't changed the
rates.
GEnie set the standard for reasonable online pricing when we established
our $4.95 flat rate for a wide range of services. The response was over-
whelming. We also offered services at other rates. Then, GEnie users
like yourself told us they were confused about which services were avail-
able at each rate.
GEnie*Basic is the new name of the full range of services available at a
flat rate of $4.95 per month. (These used to be called
Star*Services.) We haven't changed the services available
at this rate except to continue to add new ones.
GEnie Value is the new name for the services available for $6.00 per
hour non-prime time.
GEnie$Professional is the new name we apply to the many specialized
services available at variable hourly rates.
At GEnie, we are always looking for ways to improve our service to users.
We think the new names will help clarify our service levels.
We're glad you are part of the GEnie family. We hope you will continue
to tell us how we can better serve you.
GEnie Pricing
(effective April 25, 1991)
+-------------------------++--------------------------+
| USA || CANADA |
-------------+-------------------------||--------------------------+
Monthly | || |
Subscription | $4.95/month || $5.95/month |
Fee | || |
-------------+---------------+---------||--------------+-----------+
Rates | Non-Prime | Prime || Non-Prime | Prime |
-------------+---------------+---------||--------------+-----------+
GEnie*Basic | No hourly | $18/hour|| No hourly | $25/hour |
Services | Charge* | || Charge* | |
-------------|---------------|---------||--------------|-----------+
GEnie Value | $6/hour | $18/hour|| $8/hour | $25/hour |
Services | | || | |
-------------|---------------|---------||--------------|-----------+
GEnie$Pro- | Prices vary per individual service. These include |
Fessional | Charles Schwab Brokerage Service (not available in |
Services | Canada), Dow Jones News/Retrieval, Official Airline |
| Guides, QuikNews clipping service, Telebase's |
| Investment ANALY$T and Telebase's POP-MED. |
-------------|-----------------------------------------------------+
Notes: Non-Prime rates apply Monday-Friday, 6 p.m.-8 a.m. local |
time, and all day Saturday, Sunday and GEnie holidays. Rates are |
for 300, 1200 and 2400 baud access only. Some GEnie services may |
not be available outside the United States. Canadian rates are |
quoted in Canadian dollars. |
|
[* In a few areas, there is a $2 per hour remote access surcharge. |
Where applicable, this charge applies to all services, including |
the user of GEnie*Basic Services in non-prime hours.] |
-------------------------------------------------------------------+
***********************************************************************
> MAC REPORT
==========
Issue #007
----------
by Robert Allbritton
Sorry that I missed you folks last week, but its that time of year
when us college students get quite busy. For the past ten days I have had
a major paper or exam due every day of the week, so my brain is about on
par with lime Jell-O. As a result, this week will just have news, no
review. However, as soon as my schedule permits, I will continue my aim-
less blabbering!
MacNews
*** Apple to use Motorola RISC chip.
The hot rumor flying around both Motorola and Apple at the end of this
week was that Apple will in fact continue its relationship with Motorola
when it begins production of its next generation of computers. Beyond the
68040 Mac seems to lie a future of RISC based UNIX (or A/UX) workstations.
Look for public announcements in about 6 months.
*** Apple vs. Microsoft lawsuit expands.
Apple has added Windows 3.0 to its suit against Microsoft over copyri-
ght infringement. This is a significant move because the original suit
was based on Windows 2.03, but Apple has always considered Windows 3.0 to
be a derivative work of 2.03. This sent a shiver down the spine of Mi-
crosoft on the market on Wednesday, and legal experts are saying that
Apple could demand much larger than originally expected royalty payments
should they win the suit. Apple originally licensed some parts of the
Macintosh interface to Microsoft for Windows 1.0.
*** New Wireless Networking
A few weeks ago, Apple petitioned the FCC to allocate certain parts of
the radio spectrum for wireless personal computer networking. On April
11, Dr. David Nagel, Apple VP for Advanced Technology testified before a
Senate subcommittee in support of the upcoming Emerging Telecommunications
Technologies Act of 1991 that could provide the needed frequencies. This
could allow computers to be "wirelessly" networked within 150 feet of one
another, truly any portable computer owners dream come true. This legis-
lation would benefit all computer makers, not just Apple.
*** Profits: some up, some down.
While Apple profitability went up to $1.07 per share this quarter
(compared to $1.04 per share last year) there was a fair amount of disap-
pointment. Most analyst has expected between 1.15 and 1.20 from the
California computer company, but overall year earnings expectations have
not changed. Other factors mentioned were the runaway success of the
Classic, but a failure to have similar significant success with the new
Mac LC and the Mac II line.
On other notes, Radius, maker of Monitors and Mac accelerators lost $1
Million in the second quarter, while Mac Monitor maker RasterOps made
$1.55 million in the third quarter.
*** SIMM prices on the rise.
After hitting the low price of $25 six weeks ago, 1 Meg SIMM prices
seem to be on the rebound. Current pricing from The Chip Merchant has 1
meg SIMMS at $40. On a brighter note, 4 meg SIMMS are now at price parity
with their 1 meg cousins. Current pricing for 4 meg SIMMS is now $160.
______________________________________________________
> STR Portfolio News & Information Keeping up to date...
================================
THE ATARI PORTFOLIO FORUM
=========================
On CompuServe
by Walter Daniel 75066,164
Read message #11354 for details of an appearance by the Portfolio on
the Lifetime cable-TV network. It will be demonstrated during a program
segment on "gadgets."
DIP, the British developers of the Portfolio, have announced the
Pocket PC-512 in the UK. The machine has more memory, more power, and
enhanced built-in software. See message #11378 for more information.
Dave Stewart has announced a new version of his Port-a-Sketch program.
Details are in message #11319.
I've reported in the past of various efforts to get the Turbo Pascal
compiler running on the Portfolio. BJ Gleason analyzed version 3.01 and
discovered an incompatibility due to the display speed. While the Turbo
Pascal compiler can be modified, there's a quicker solution. Call the
Setup utility, select Display, select Speed, then choose Fast. The dis-
play is now updated more quickly and Turbo Pascal 3.01 should work.
With RAM card space at a premium, most Portfolio developers use com-
pression programs such as LZEXE to reduce the size of stored files. A
newer compression program, PKLITE, has been gaining some converts within
the Portfolio community. It is stored in the IBM Utilities Forum as
PKLITE103.EXE.
News version of existing programs were uploaded this week. INHOCK-
3.WKS is an update of the loan comparison worksheet in library 1. CC3.BAS
is version 1.3 of Conversion Calculator, a PBASIC program to perform unit
conversions between pounds and kilograms, etc. This new version uses the
MENU statement in PBASIC extensively. Chris Burns has updated his Power-
BASIC programs for using a Tandy PDD2 disk drive. The command-line utili-
ties are in TDUTIL.ZIP; his new file manager is TM2.ZIP.
A new PDD2 program was uploaded this week. This program, PDD210.ZIP,
is for desktop PCs and is not Portfolio-compatible at this time.
_________________________________________________________
> HAYES MODEMS STR InfoFile NEW Hayes Pocket 2400!
=========================
HAYES INTRODUCES POCKET EDITION 2400
====================================
The Ideal Modem for Business Travelers
and
Palmtop - Laptop Users
Hayes Microcomputer Products, Inc. announced April 1991 availability
of Pocket Edition 2400, a 3-ounce, 3-inch long modem designed specifically
for the business traveler and the laptop market. Pocket Edition 2400 does
not require an electrical outlet, battery pack or a serial port adapter to
connect to a laptop or portable computer.
Pocket Edition 2400 comes packaged with cables, Smartcom EZ communica-
tions software and a carrying case that attaches to any computer carrying
case strap. Because the modem runs off the power supplied through the
telephone line and the computer's serial port, the need for an electrical
outlet or bulky battery pack is eliminated.
At an estimated retail price of US$179 and CN$208, Pocket Edition 2400
is more than a modem. It is a complete, cost-effective communications
solution for MS-DOS and compatible laptop and portable computers with
standard 9-pin RS-232 serial ports. Pocket Edition 2400 provides 2400,
1200 and 300 bps communications.
Pocket Edition 2400 also provides a convenient way to send faxes when
used in conjunction with an information service such as those offered by
AT&T, MCI, US Sprint, CompuServe or GEnie. Users simply call an informa-
tion service, send the data to the service via the modem, and the service
does the rest. This technique enables the business traveler to save time,
energy and money by sending faxes without leaving the hotel room or any
other off-site location.
"Communications from laptop and portable computers has become an
integral part of the business world especially for automating sales forces
and supporting off-site employees," said Hayes President Dennis C. Hayes.
"Pocket Edition 2400 provides the flexibility and convenience that a
laptop or portable user requires at a very competitive price, while still
providing the high standard of performance these users expect from a Hayes
product."
Smartcom EZ is a simple-to-use communications software program that
enables users to access PCs and on-line or BBS services. Smartcom EZ
provides easy-to-follow menus and phone book entries to store frequently
called numbers. This software also provides pre-entered phone book ent-
ries for the most popular information services. Keyboard macros, exten-
sive on-line help screens and Autotype, which enables users to transfer
text files effortlessly, are other features included in Smartcom EZ. The
XMODEM protocol allows users to send or receive data files error-free
between locations.
POCKET EDITION 2400 HOLDS
A
TWO-YEAR LIMITED PERFORMANCE WARRANTY.
Smartcom EZ holds a unique limited 90-day performance warranty. For
more information contact Hayes Customer Service at 404/441-1617 in the
U.S. or 416/283-2627 in Canada.
Best known as the leader in microcomputer modems, Hayes develops,
supplies and supports computer communications equipment and software for
personal computer and computer communications networks. The company
distributes its products through an international network of authorized
distributors, dealers, and original equipment manufacturers.
HAYES MICROCOMPUTER PRODUCTS, INC.
P.O. Box 105203
Atlanta, Georgia 30348
404/449-8791
______________________________________________________________
> Quantum Pro STR Feature "..LPS stands for Low Profile Series"
=======================
FAST, FASTER AND "HOLD ONTO YOUR HATS"
======================================
or
"How to convince your wife you REALLY need that new hard drive."
By Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr.
Recently, I bought a new Quantum ProDrive 105S hard drive to replace my
aging, decrepit, Fujitsu M2243AS2 (a 110 meg drive). It was starting to
make weird and eerie noises which I interpreted as its death-knell. The
Fujitsu was one of the old, full-height 5 1/4" RLL drives (can you say
'boat anchor'?) that was fast for its day, but was a little slow in
comparison with todays technology. Not only was it a little slow, it
also ran hot (I kept my coffee hot by putting it on top of the drive
cabinet) and pulled a lot of juice (each time I turned it on, the lights
would dim in a 10 block area). In mathematical terms...
NOISES + SLOWNESS + HEAT + ELECTRICAL USAGE = a new Quantum 105S
(or at least, that's how I explained it to my wife)
My new Quantum 105S was one of the new generation of hard drives, a
half-height 3.5" SCSI drive (a little smaller than a 3.5" bare, floppy
drive - about 1/8th the size of Fujitsu). It's faster, pulls less power
(I can probably pay for the new drive just in electricity savings...I'll
say anything to rationalize my new drive and keep my wife happy <grin>),
and it runs cooler than the Fujitsu (now I can keep my soda cold). Since
it's a SCSI drive, that meant that I no longer had to have a controller
card, as that's built into the drive ("See honey, I can sell my Adaptec
4070 controller card, that way the drive won't cost me as much"...Reason
#87 in explaining to your wife why you need a new hard drive). So
basically, I traded my antique 'Hupmobile' in on a nice new Mustang.
I was happy...until someone on one of the on-line services mentioned
that he had one of the NEW Quantum LPS105S drives (LPS stands for Low
Profile Series) that was even smaller and faster than my "old" Quantum
105S. Then to rub salt into the wound, someone else said that he had
seen the Quantum LPS105S advertised in Computer Shopper for only $385,
the same price as the Quantum 105S's - I paid $500 for my Quantum 105S
just 2-3 months ago (needless to say, I did not tell my wife that the
drive had dropped $115 in price in 2-3 months...some things a wife just
isn't meant to hear...for my continuing well-being).
Needless to say, I had to investigate this. I wanted to make sure the ad
wasn't a printers error, so last week I called Griffin Computer, Inc. to
inquire about their ad. "Yeap", they said, "we have the new Quantum
LPS105S for only $385, how many do you want?". Arrgh!! I was hooked!!
(Now how was I going to explain this one to my wife? I don't think she's
going to buy "Look honey, it followed me home".)
It was time to put Plan B in action! I still had a Seagate 296N (85-meg,
half-height 5 1/4" SCSI drive) in my dual hard drive case ("Honey, did
you just hear the Seagate make a weird and eerie noise? Do you think
whatever was wrong with the Fujitsu was contagious?). Since I had a
sucker...oops, I mean 'buyer' for my Seagate 296N, it would only cost me
$100-$150 to get 20 more megs and a faster drive ("Honey, Mark will give
me $150 and his Seagate 157N for my old, ancient Seagate 296N. Then I
can sell Dave, Mark's Seagate 157N for $150 and that way it won't hardly
cost anything at all to upgrade."...Guys, if you're wife will buy this
story, keep her around no matter what...she's one in a million!!).
So I called Griffin Computer back on Tuesday and told them "Send me
one...NOW!!!" ("Honey, where did you hide my credit card?"). I also
ordered a 3.5" adaptor kit for my 5 1/4" case and had them send the
whole thing to me via UPS 2nd Day Air ("See honey how I save money? I
could have had it sent Next Day Air but that cost $8 more"). Thursday at
3pm, the UPS man was knocking on my door with a little brown box in his
hand. My NEW Quantum LPS105S had arrived!! Needless to say, I wasted no
time installing my toy...oops, necessary addition
The entire installation only took about an hour (actually, it took over
2 hours, but the "wasted" hour is a source for another article). It
took about 10 minutes to take out the Seagate 296N, about 40 minutes to
install the 5.25"-to-3.5" converter in the drive bay (if you already
have a 3.5" drive in your case, you won't have to do this), and about 10
minutes to hook up the new drive (someone without 5 thumbs on each hand
could've done it all in 15-20 minutes, at least that is how long my wife
says it would taken her).
The only problem that I encountered during the installation was which
jumpers on the drive should be removed and which should be kept (there
are a total of six sets of jumpers, three to set the SCSI device number
and three for some sort of IBM "junk"). Griffin Computers, sent a mini-
data sheet with the hard drive, but it assumed I was installing it in a
PC and gave me PC defaults (setup for SCSI device 7). Luckily, I had a
friend that had a full data sheet for the Quantum 105S. In case you get
a Quantum 105S/LPS105S here's how to set up the drives for either SCSI
device 0 or 1....
STOCK ST SCSI DEVICE 0 ST SCSI DEVICE 1
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
| | | |
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Was the NEW Quantum LPS105S worth it? You bet it was!! (Well, it was to
me, my wife still isn't convinced...women sure are stubborn.) It's even
smaller and faster than my "old" Quantum 105S (about 1" high) ("Honey,
think how fast your Solitaire game will now boot up...I did all of this
for you.") and it's so quiet that you almost cannot hear it work. (I
understand that Jim Allen of Fast Tech - T-16 fame - bought two of them
from Griffin recently.)
Speed comparisons based on ICD's Rate Hard Drive v2.04
Device Name Data Rate Av. Access
Fujitsu M2243AS2 420K/s 32 ms.
Quantum 105S 671K/s 25 ms.
Quantum LPS105S 1125K/s 20 ms.
Could I recommend Griffin Computers, Inc. to anyone else? You bet I
can!! Their sales people were very courteous, polite and professional
and kept their "smile" through all of my questions (I couldn't believe
that they were selling the Quantum LPS105S for the same price as the
Quantum 105S). I was slightly concerned when I first got the Quantum
LPS105S because I didn't get a copy of my invoice or credit-card
receipt. After calling them about it, I found the reason was they did
not run the credit cards through UNTIL the drive shipped (so naturally,
they couldn't include the credit card receipt with the drive). I got
both the invoice and credit-card receipt the day after I got my drive.
Verrrry professional.
Griffin Computer, Inc.
6500 NW 12th Ave., Suite 115
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida 33309
305-771-9055
800-472-4743
Quantum LPS52S 52-meg $240
Quantum LPS105S 110-meg $385
Acknowledgements to:
Doug Wheeler of ICD
Jim Allen of FastTech
Erik Mosier
Bill Loring
(NOTE: My wife says she would like to talk with all four of the above
people, something about a "hit-list".)
__________________________________________________________
> STR Spotlight Looking BBS's over, what do they do?
=============
TAKING A GOOD LOOK AT........
BULLETIN BOARDS
===============
by Dana P. Jacobson
I've heard many times from some of my fellow Atarians: "Where do I
go for help if I have problems or questions about my ST?" Well, with the
rapid decline of Atari dealers nationwide, that question is not always an
easy one to answer. It used to be that you could direct anyone to visit
his/her local Atari dealer. If the dealer was worth like most I've dealt
with in the past, he would have a pretty good idea how to help a poten-
tial (or steady) customer. A dealer could explain various hardware and
software, and answer at least the basic of questions. From experience, I
used to depend on the dealers to recommend software to fit my particular
needs. If I needed certain hardware to make my task easier, he also had
the answer to that as well. Well folks, it just isn't the same anymore.
Many of those dealers who were around when we first got our machines are
just not there anymore. So, what do we do now, sell our machines and buy
one that has dealers? If you enjoy the ST, then there's a good chance
you don't want to change in midstream. Where do we go if there's no
dealer easily accessible?
In the next couple of issues, I hope to be able to answer that ques-
tion in detail. The two most common sources for information other than
dealers are bulletin boards and user groups. Both sources require users
who share similar ends: to learn more about their chosen machine and its
capabilities. To access bulletin boards (BBS), one must have a modem and
at least a few numbers of BBSs. There are literally hundreds of bulletin
boards in the U.S.; and there's a good chance there's at least one or two
within your local area to keep long-distance tolls at a minimum. There
are also subscription online services, such as GEnie, Delphi, and Com-
puserve. BBSs provide a service to its users by having message bases
and, usually, a files section which contains public domain software for
you to access.
User groups are made up of people who also share your Atari intere-
sts. These groups can consist of a small number of people, or large
groups, meeting regularly to discuss various topics of interest to
provide its members useful information about various aspects of the
machine. Some groups are loosely-formed "clubs" and others are larger
and more organized. Geographical location will usually determine the
size of a user group. Larger cities will usually have more users than
small towns, although this is certainly not always the case. Regardless,
user groups are an outlet to either complement those areas having a
dealer and/or bulletin boards; or being the only outlet for information.
For most of you reading this, you most likely have access to BBSs or
an online service. How else would you obtain STReport? Well, it's my
assumption that many of you don't belong to a user group; nor call other
sources other than an online service. I have heard of people who down-
load STReport and pass it along, on disk, to other Atari users. So, for
those of you who may not be fully aware of the sources available to you,
these articles will be important. To those of you who do not take advan-
tage of these sources, perhaps these articles may give you some insight
to become more involved in whatever is available to you in your local
area.
Before I go any further, I can just hear you all saying: "What about
Atari magazines? Certainly they can provide me with the information I
need." Well, like the dealers, Atari-specific magazines are dwindling.
And, for those still around (support them!), they cannot usually provide
a reader with instant gratification of an answer to specific questions or
problems. The magazines are certainly an integral part of our learning
experience, and I recommend that you read them. I believe that they can
supplement a user's knowledge, but they are certainly limited in what
they can provide on a regular basis.
Although they come and go as much as the weather changes in New
England, bulletin boards and the pay online services are the easiest
source for any user to obtain useful information, and quite often very
quickly. My attempts to discuss BBSs will be general in nature, as
specific details will differ for each BBS. Every BBS has its own "per-
sonality"; including users, messages, files, and other relevant offeri-
ngs. Different BBS programs allow the SysOp (System Operator) and users
to do different things; but in essence, providing similar opportunities
for everyone in general.
To begin with, a bulletin board usually provides at least two major
services for its users: a message base and a files area.
A bulletin board is the means for which any number of users can
access a computer remotely, via a modem and telephone line by simply
dialing the BBS host computer, usually by means of a terminal program.
Different BBSs have different means to access certain information, but
essentially once you've gained a valid "account", you've entered a new
world of computing. Most BBSs have an area set aside for message forums,
or bases. Some are broken down by topics to make it easier for users to
look for pertinent information. Topics, or SIGs (Special Interest Group-
s) can consist of many items. Some will be computer-related, and
others will have social connotations. Whatever the topic, it usually
makes things easier to find the answer in the correct area when you're
searching for information. Once you've gained access to a BBS, it is
always wise to get involved in the message bases. There's no "rule"
which states that you must be an expert to be active in messages in an
area where you might not be an authority. The messages bases are forums
for messages. Read them, reply to them, and become involved. Something
you 'say' might help someone else. Personally, the message base is the
first area I check out whenever I log on to any BBS - that's where _the_
information is to be found. See what each BBS has to offer for a message
base so you'll know what potential information is available. These areas
are vital to every user who calls!
The files section of a BBS is another vital area of any bulletin
board system. It is here that you'll find, hopefully, all the latest and
best public domain software available to you. It is here that you'll
find those files that will help make your computing more easier and
enjoyable. All that you'll have to do is choose the files you want to
download, and do it. You may not be able to download everything you want
at one session, but the files will be there on your next call. A word to
the wise: if you're calling a long-distance BBS, choose your downloading
wisely; those 5-10 minute downloads add up and those monthly phone bills
can skyrocket! To those BBSs which you find beneficial to you with
regard to downloads, return the favor and upload some files which you
feel may be helpful to other users. It's only right that you give back a
little whenever you can. Another thing to remember on any BBS is that
the files are supposed to be in the public domain (shareware, freeware,
etc.). Commercial software on a BBS is piracy; don't upload commercial
software, regardless. If you see a file that appears to be commercial,
let the SysOp know as he might not be aware of it. If there's a lot of
commercial software available, let someone know. Pirate BBSs are il-
legal, and a menace to our computing enjoyment.
The online subscription services, such as Delphi, GEnie, and
Compuserve, are essentially bulletin boards, but the services that they
provide are much more comprehensive than our typical neighborhood BBS.
These services have the resources to maintain huge message bases and
files sections, not to mention additional areas for information. Each
has its benefits, and unless you happen to win the lottery, you'll proba-
bly never explore every option available to you. But, once you've become
accustomed to the various areas available to you, you can utilize those
areas which you find most important to you. These services also carry
monthly subscription charges; and some charge for certain services,
including downloading files.
The benefits of these online services usually make up for the charges
you incur, as long as you use your online time wisely. The message bases
are immense; and there are many support areas where you'll find Atari
developers, and other experts, with online help. The friendly banter is
an added plus!
I could go on about bulletin boards and online services, enough to
fill a novel or two. To do so would deprive you of finding out for
yourself what these systems have to offer. Whether you call a local BBS,
one across the country, or a pay service - you'll find them to be an
invaluable source of information. Even with the (hopeful) return of a
nationwide Atari dealer network, the bulletin boards are a major asset to
any computer user; and they're here to stay!
Next week: A look at the user group.
__________________________________________________________
> MEGA4 STE STR FOCUS "Let's see what makes this baby tick!"
===================
ATARI'S MEGA4/50 STE
====================
Part I
by Ralph Mariano
The Atari Mega STe is literally an awesome powerhouse. Wait, I did
have plenty of time to operate and observe the TT030 computers in use at
CEPS.... Hmmmm it now appears that between the two computers I have caught
the wowie zowies.. NOT SO! Let me point out that I have an Adspeed and a
T-16 equipped Mega ST in our STR office. And although the TT was 32Mhz,
the real meat and potatoes machine for the majority of us is the MEGA STe.
This machine is definitely hot! Now, let's get back to the powerhouse
quip, you see, the MEGA STe has it all built-in, its a smooth running
operating system as opposed to an upgrade that's "hacked" into an older
design. That 'hacked' expression is not meant to be derogatory but it
does point out that its not a "factory design". The MegaSTe takes some
getting used to, but once you're over that the rest is a sheer pleasure.
The NEWDESK desktop is a delight... in fact, I am having a ball ex-
ploring all the great things it can do. Next week's issue will be more
technical than this one, after all the machine is only here so far for one
day. Everything you've heard and read about the comfort of the keyboard
is true. Its firmer to the feel and has a positive, solid reaction to the
keystrokes.
The unit, delivered here yesterday, is the 4mb Ram with a 50mb hard
drive and its showing very respectable performance numbers. My friends, I
can't begin to tell what Captive is like in Stereo with the added colors.
I can tell you it is a big step forward. And if I am allowed to "think
ahead" for a moment, i can only imagine what Atari's design engineers have
in store for us in the future for the VME bus.
As soon as it was delivered, we set it up and stood back to admire its
"new look", (as in get used to), the different appearance. Once over the
newness, a hard drive was assembled and attached to the ascsi port (DMA)
with the ICD top of the line host adapter installed. In fact, the out-
board hard drive is 200mb Maxtor. The first nicety was found that we did
not have to remove any terminating resistor packs when installing the
outboard drive. The Mega STe4 is now 250mb strong and it rips right
along. Rate hard drive gave us this:
0,0 Seagate - 549ks - 34ms
1,0 Maxtor - 492ks - 23ms
Not too shabby...... to say the very least.
The next step was to begin preliminary checks with the emulators, we
hooked up the Supercharger IBM Emulator and as fast as we could double
click on ABIO.TOS we were very busy MS-DOSing our way through the hard
drive partitions.. ALL of them. C-J Supercharger works flawlessly with
the Mega STe in the 16Mhz.Cache On mode. Next Week we'll check out the
MAC/GCR world.
The machine has some very impressive stats:
16 MHz 68000 CPU 50 Meg internal hard drive
Detachable keyboard Built-in fan
Mouse Standard parallel port
Blitter chip MIDI In and Out ports
4096 color palette Cartridge port
Stereo sound output DMA port
SIMM memory Two 9-pin (RS-232) ports
TOS 2.05 with NewDesk 8 MHz VME bus
Double sided 3.5" floppy drive Standard SCC LAN port
For those who must have speed-o-marks, Quindex numbers showed the
Mega4STe to be as fast or (in many cases) faster than an AdSpeed OR T-16
equipped Mega4 ST. For all intents and purposes, the Mega4STe outper-
forms all the older machines so far. Those users involved in DTP and CAD
packages will most certainly enjoy and benefit from the increased speed.
The time it takes to ARC/LZH and unARC/LZH files is cut by at least 50%!
The Mega/STe is, in STReport's professional opinion, the strongest
value in a computer for the home and small business user that Atari has
ever designed produced and marketed.... For those of you who are casual-
ly involved in DTP and could easily be classified as hobbyists and/or
professional computer operators, this machine; the MEGASTe4/50 delivers
more BANG for the BUCK than any other Atari, or for that matter, ANY other
computer available in its price range. If you are even slightly consider-
ing the purchase of a new computer or, thinking of updating your system,
make it your business to get this computer. It IS sweet. The machine is
well designed in all areas but one, the mouse and joystick ports demand
that a right angle connector be used. And the coiled cord for the keyb-
oard to CPU connection is somewhat confusing. Why it has a connector on
one end only and at the opposite side of the machine, thus forcing the
coiled cord to transverse the width of the machine to be inter-connected
is a puzzle. Minor aggravations to be sure. The performance of the
machine outshines those points by a strong country mile.
Next week, we'll get into the interior of the machine and an in-depth
look at the Extensible Control Panel and its power. Each week, we will
explore a serious program and compare it to our existing equipment. Next
week STReport will be done entirely on the Mega4/STe50. Once again, this
machine is NICE!
__________________________________________________________
> STReport CONFIDENTIAL "ACCURATE ATARI NEWS FIRST!"
=====================
- Salona Beach CA. TALON'S SUPERCHARGER 286 -> ON THE WAY!
----------------
Condor Trading Ltd. has announced 286 upgrade in May 1991 for registe-
red users. The long awaited 286 upgrades to the SuperCharger IBM emulator
will be shipping from the manufacturer in the beginning of May 1991 for
registered owners of SuperCharger. Basically, the upgrade will allow the
SuperCharger to emulate the AT class of computers. Currently it emulates
the slower XT series of machines.
The board is equipped with one meg of RAM and is expandable to either
2 or 4 megs by using the easy-to-find SIMM chips. The upgrade is rated at
12 MHz and has a Norton rating of 14 (a 16 MHz processor is an option).
The upgrade comes in two configurations. The first fits into the
existing case and is fairly easy to install. However, it does not have
any expansion slots. The second configuration consists of a new metal
case that contains the new 286 board, a built-in power supply, and two
extra 16 bit expansion slots. The installation is just as easy as the
first configuration. With the expansion slots, users may add expansion
boards such as VGA, MODEM, FAX BOARDS, ETC. So now the ST can become a
true IBM compatible machine!
- San Francisco, CA MULTI-GEM REAL
-----------------
The Atari platform has a software multi-tasking system. If a program is
written for multi-tasking, it runs while you're executing another program
in a different window. This program works very much like multi-finder in
the MAC world. Up to 6 programs may be active at the same time as long as
no acc's are installed. MULITGEM uses the ACC slots. More should be
known very soon as this is coming in from Europe.
- Sunnyvale, CA The LYNX Lineup
-------------
Available NOW:
California Games Blue Lightening
Chips Challenge ElectroCop
Gates of Zendocon Gauntlet: THe Third Encounter
KLAX Rampage
RoadBlasters Ms. Pac-Man
PaperBoy Robo-Squash
Rygar Shanghai
Slime World Xenophobe
Zarlor Mercenary
Coming Soon
Ninja Garden Tournament CyberBall
Blockout Hard Drivin'
Rolling Thunder Hockey
NFL Football Stun Runner
World Class Soccer Turbo-Sub
Vindicators Toki
Warbirds Hydra
720 Robotron
Scrapyard Dog A.P.B.
Casino Pacland
BasketBrawl Xybots
Golf Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure
Checkered Flag Viking Child
Grid Runner Geo Duel
Crystal Mines 2 Fidelity Ultimate Chess
Barbarian Body Guard
- Sunnyvale, CA FOR THE RECORD........
-------------
Ctsy GEnie
Category 14, Topic 14
Message 261 Fri Apr 12, 1991
D.MCNAMEE [Dan @ Atari] at 15:08 EDT
I have done some checking around here. The Mega STe is still FCC class A,
not B.
Dan McNamee Atari Softsource Administrator
Category 14, Topic 35
Message 269 Fri Apr 12, 1991
D.MCNAMEE [Dan @ Atari] at 15:08 EDT
I have checked around here and the TT has not yet passed FCC class B, it
is still a Class A device.
Dan McNamee Atari Softsource Administrator
=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Bill,
The Mega STe is also Class A, not B. The dealer should not have
sold you this unit unless it was for use in a business environment, and if
they got these units from us (ie, not Canada or elsewhere) then they
should have a signed agreement with us stating that they will only sell
them to businesses.
Dan
=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Editor Note:
While the classifications of the two machines may be "A" rather than
"B", one point must be made very clear. Please be mindful that this FCC
classification does not, at all, relate to the reliability, performance or
sophistication of these fine machines. The TT030 and the MegaSTe are
tested by the FCC only for the amount of spurious emissions that may or
may not interfere with the performance of a nearby Television. (Compli-
ance with the rules and regulations of part 15.)
Many of you who were and may still be CBer's will remember part 95...
:-) And how you were allowed 5 watts of input to the finals. Of course
this severely limited your CB radio's range so.... there were many who
employed the use of the "pesky" linear amplifier. Now, with this added
power 25 - 1 kw (a gallon), the TVI (TV Interference) was heightened. The
FCC had set guidelines for this area also. The thought here is the new
machines are 'powerhouses' and thus their shielding and bypass filtration
circuitry must be enhanced. And according to our info, this is being done
at this very moment.
"Ya, 10-4 good buddy, catcha on the flip side.
Threes......, We're 10-7."
_____________________________________________________
> Hard Disks STR InfoFile TAX TIME SPECIAL OFFERINGS!....
=======================
NEW LOW PRICES! & MORE MODELS!!
===============================
>> INCOME TAX REFUND 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 *
WE PAY SHIPPING!!! >BLUE LABEL UPS!<
Conventional Shoe Box
ADD 35.00 for 4 BAY TURBO Cabinet w/250w PS
Model Description Autopark Price
==================================================
SGN3038 31Mb 28ms 3.5" Y 419.00
SGN4951 51Mb 28ms 3.5" Y 479.00
SGN6277 65Mb 24ms 5.25" Y 519.00
SGN6177 62Mb 24ms 3.5" Y 549.00
SGN1096 85Mb 24ms 5.25" Y 589.00
SGN1098 96mb 25ms 3.5" Y 719.00
SGN2055 105mb 19ms 3.5" Y 889.00
SGN6277 120Mb 24ms 3.5" Y 929.00
SGN1296 168Mb 24ms 3.5" Y 1069.00
SGN4077 230Mb 24ms 3.5" Y 1669.00
==================================================
****** SPECIAL - SPECIAL ******
---- FOR USE IN MEGA, MEGA STe & TT030 SYSTEMS ----
>>>> 96mb SCSI HARD DRIVE Mech 25-28ms 3.5" ...ONLY $349.00!! <<<<
16mhz CPU UPGRADES AVAILABLE & INSTALLED
ABCO is now taking orders for MEGA STe Computers!
Call for special Introductory prices!
****** SPECIAL - SPECIAL ******
>>> 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 @ $419.00!
--==*==--
* SYQUEST 44MB (#555)>> ABCO "44" << REMOVABLE MEDIA DRIVE *
- SYQUEST 44 MB DRIVE - ICD ST ADVANTAGE PLUS H/A
- ICD Utility Software - 3' DMA Cable
- Fan & Clock - Multi-Unit Power Supply
(1) 44 MB Syquest Cart.
WE PAY SHIPPING!!! >BLUE LABEL UPS!<
COMPLETELY ASSEMBLED AND READY TO RUN!
--->> SPECIAL NOW ONLY __$ 685.00__ <<---
EXTRA CARTS: $ 78.95
DRIVE MECH ONLY: $ 349.95
* 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
WE PAY SHIPPING!!! >BLUE LABEL UPS!<
Listed above are a sampling of the systems available.
Prices also reflect various cabinet/power supply configurations
(over sixty configurations are available, flexibility is unlimited)
*** ALL Units: Average Access Time: 24ms - 34ms ***
ALL UNITS COMPATIBLE WITH --> SUPERCHARGER - AT/PC SPEED - GCR
LARGER units are available - (Custom Configurations)
*>> NO REPACKS OR REFURBS USED! <<*
- Custom Walnut WOODEN Cabinets - TOWER - AT - XT Cabinets -
* SLM 804 Replacement Toner Cartridge Kits $42.95 *
Replacement Drums; $183.95
MANY other ATARI related products STOCKED
ALL POWER SUPPLIES UL APPROVED
-* 12 month FULL Guarantee *-
(A FULL YEAR of COVERAGE)
WE PAY SHIPPING!!! >BLUE LABEL UPS!<
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
ABCO is EXPANDING!! CALL FOR INFORMATION!
____________________________________________________________
> A "Quotable Quote"
=================
"HAS ANYONE EVER HEARD SILENCE? ....AND
HOW LOUD IT REALLY IS?"
Clinton Walker
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
STReport International Online Magazine
Available through more than 10,000 Private BBS systems WorldWide!
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
STReport¿ "YOUR INDEPENDENT NEWS SOURCE" April 19, 1991
16/32bit Magazine copyright ½ 1987-91 No.7.16
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Views, Opinions and Articles Presented herein are not necessarily those of
the editors, staff, STReport¿ CPU/MAC/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
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