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Silicon Times Report Issue 1020
SILICON TIMES REPORT
====================
INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE
=============================
from
STR Electronic Publishing Inc.
May 13, 1994 No. 1020
======================================================================
Silicon Times Report
International Online Magazine
Post Office Box 6672
Jacksonville, Florida 32221-6155
R.F. Mariano
Publisher-Editor
-----------------------------------------
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______________________________________________________________________
> 05/13/94 STR 1020 "The Original * Independent * Online Magazine!"
"""""""""""""""""
- CPU INDUSTRY REPORT - NetWork Services - Cybermorph Review
- Tortoise & Hare - View 2.5 News - AutoCad for SUN
- WinWord Speedups - Jaguar Catalog - Jaguar TidBits
- STACKER 4 Notes - People Talking - The Old Fishin' Hole
-* Aldus Ships Pagemaker 5.0 for Power Mac *-
-* FBI INVESTIGATES MEDIA-VISION! *-
-* APPLE TO LICENSE PPC TECHNOLOGY? *-
======================================================================
STReport International Online Magazine
The Original * Independent * Online Magazine
-* FEATURING WEEKLY *-
"Accurate UP-TO-DATE News and Information"
Current Events, Original Articles, Tips, Rumors, and Information
Hardware - Software - Corporate - R & D - Imports
======================================================================
STReport's BBS - The Bounty BBS, invites all BBS systems, worldwide, to
participate in the ITC/PROWL/USENET/NEST/F-Net/Fido Mail Networks. You
may also call The Bounty BBS direct @ 1-904-786-4176. Enjoy the wonder
and excitement of exchanging all types of useful information relative to
c o m puters, worldwide, through the use of excellent International
Networking Systems. SysOps, worldwide, are welcome to join the STReport
International Conferences. ITC Node is 85:881/250, The Fido Node is
1:374/147.3, Crossnet Code is #34813, and the "Lead Node" is #620. All
computer platforms BBS systems are welcome and invited to participate.
======================================================================
CIS ~ AOL ~ DELPHI ~ BIX ~ PROWL ~ ITC ~ NEST ~ EURONET ~ CIX
USENET ~ USPOLNET ~ CLEVELAND FREE-NET ~ INTERNET ~ FNET ~ GENIE
======================================================================
COMPUSERVE WILL PRESENT $15.00 WORTH OF COMPLIMENTARY ONLINE TIME
to the Readers of;
STREPORT 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!
"Enjoy CompuServe's forums; where information is at its very best!
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
> From the Editor's Desk "Saying it like it is!"
""""""""""""""""""""""
Simply amazing! Any other time and nothing would be thought of a car
accident down the road that caused a power pole to fall. But because
today is Friday the thirteenth.... Nah ...it couldn't possibly be. But
here I am at 9:30pm hammering away at the keys trying to get this issue
out at a reasonable hour. Coupled with trying to get ready for Comdex...
and coding in all the new goodies coming in for review and evaluation, its
been very hectic the past few days.
Comdex... or, as an old friend used to call it "Calmdex", is the
place for all good computerists to be. That is if you like to see the
best and the very worst in all of us show right through. The new goodies
are enough to drive even the sanest of sane whacky. Expect to see at
least three weeks of rambling about all the goodies we were able to get
close to.
Ralph...
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
STReport's Staff DEDICATED TO SERVING YOU!
""""""""""""""""
Publisher -Editor
""""""""""""""""""
Ralph F. Mariano
Lloyd E. Pulley, Editor, Current Affairs
Section Editors
"""""""""""""""
PC SECTION AMIGA SECTION MAC SECTION ATARI SECTION
---------- ------------- ----------- -------------
R.D. Stevens R. Niles R. Dean D. P. Jacobson
STReport Staff Editors:
"""""""""""""""""""""""
Dana P. Jacobson Michael Arthur John Deegan
Lucien Oppler Brad Martin Judith Hamner
John Szczepanik Dan Stidham Joseph Mirando
Doyle Helms Frank Sereno John Duckworth
Jeff Coe Steve Keipe Guillaume Brasseur
Melanie Bell Jay Levy John Donohue
Jeff Kovach Marty Mankins Carl Prehn
Paul Charchian
Contributing Correspondents:
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Tim Holt Norman Boucher Harry Steele
Clemens Chin Neil Bradley Eric Jerue
Ron Deal Robert Dean Ed Westhusing
Glenwood Drake Vernon W. Smith Bruno Puglia
Paul Haris Kevin Miller Craig Harris
Allen Chang Dominick Fontana
IMPORTANT NOTICE
""""""""""""""""
Please, submit letters to the editor, articles, reviews, etc...
via E-Mail to:
Compuserve................... 70007,4454
America Online..................STReport
Delphi......................... RMARIANO
BIX............................ RMARIANO
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ITC NET...................... 85:881/253
NEST........................ 90:21/350.0
GEnie......................... ST-REPORT
Internet.............RMARIANO@DELPHI.COM
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
> CPU STATUS REPORT LATE BREAKING INDUSTRY-WIDE NEWS
"""""""""""""""""
IBM/POWER-PC/PC SECTION (I)
===========================
Computer Products Update - CPU Report
------------------------ ----------
Weekly Happenings in the Computer World
Issue #04
By: Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr.
******* General Computer News *******
** Atari Corp. Announces 1st Quarter Results **
Atari Corp. this week reported its financial results for the first
quarter ended March 31, 1994. Net sales for the quarter of 1994 were
$8.2 million as compared to $10.2 million for the first quarter of 1993.
During the first quarter, production of the Atari Jaguar 64-bit
Interactive Multimedia System was limited due to start-up production
problems, which are now resolved. The lower sales and increased
marketing costs associated with the introduction of the new Jaguar
system resulted in a net loss of $900,000.00 for the first quarter of
1994 as compared to a net loss of $2.0 million for the same period of
1993.
Sam Tramiel, president of Atari Corp., said, "Now that the hardware
start-up problems are behind us, we are focusing on the development of
high-quality interactive entertainment software. At the end of March
1994, we released the award-winning title 'Tempest 2000.' Game players
around the country were eagerly awaiting the title and we are happy that
'Tempest 2000' met their expectations. In the second quarter, we expect
to release four to six titles for Jaguar, including 'Alien vs. Predator'
and 'Wolfenstein 3D.' We currently have over 125 third-party licensees
supporting the Jaguar system and between them and ourselves, we expect
between 30-50 titles to be available this year."
** Firm Offers Virus Protection **
What is being touted as the industry's first anti-virus software pro-
viding centralized detection and repair of Macintosh viruses anywhere on
AppleTalk networks has been launched by Datawatch Corp.
In a statement from Research Triangle Park in North Carolina, Data-
watch says its Virex Administrator "gives network administrators com-
plete control over their network's anti-virus protection and eliminates
the need to manually police and update virus protection on each
Macintosh."
Datawatch says the system enables network administrators to remotely
scan for viruses in real time or on a schedule, install and update Virex
on individual computers or globally across the network and repair virus
and Trojan Horse infections.
Pricing begins at $200 for a 25-machine license.
** IBM to Change Marketing Strategy **
IBM Corp. is likely to make bold changes in its marketing strategy in
an effort to get closer to its customers and sell more computers.
Rumors say that IBM will soon outline the realignment of its world-
wide marketing force to match the industries of customers. Some of its
divisions are already doing this with success.
** Conner Offers New Disk Drives **
Three new high-capacity, high-performance 3.5-inch hard disk drives
designed for high-end desktops, workstations and servers have been
introduced by Conner Peripherals Inc.
Reports say Conner also has introduced the first of "a line of low
profile (half-inch-high) 2.5-inch hard disk drives to allow designers to
reduce the size of slim line notebooks and sub-notebook PCs with its
Filepro Notebook Low Profile 350."
Conner says its Filepro Performance drives for desktop PCs offer
capacities of 2GB and 4GB, fast seek times of 8.5-9.5 milliseconds and
high rotational speeds.
** Microsoft Removes Suggested Price **
Microsoft Corp will no longer publish suggested retail prices for its
products in the United States and Canada.
The SRPs will be eliminated on July 1 since most customers feel there
is no meaningful link between the price they pay and the advertised SRP.
Microsoft research revealed the large difference between the two was due
to the rapid growth of low-cost distribution, as well as the level of
service sold with the product.
** AutoCAD Designer for Sun Debuts **
A version of AutoCAD Designer software for the Sun workstation has
been introduced by Autodesk Inc. The program offers UNIX users parame-
tric, feature-based solid modeling. Ideal for anyone involved in the
design and drafting of mechanical parts, AutoCAD Designer sells for
$1,500.
AutoCAD Designer for Sun runs on the Solaris 2.3 operating system
with 32MB RAM recommended. AutoCAD Release 12 is also required. AutoCAD
Designer is also available on PCs running MS-DOS.
** Apple Discusses Tech Licensing **
Officials with Apple Computer Inc. confirm they have entered into
discussions with a number of manufacturers about possibly licensing its
computer technology. Apple declined to comment on reports that they
might strike a deal with IBM, letting Big Blue mass-produce cloned
version of the Mac.
Apple CEO Michael Spindler told shareholders in January he planned to
aggressively license Power PC technology, and indicated that the company
might let other manufacturers build Macintoshes overseas.
** FBI Probes CD-ROM Manufacturer **
The FBI says it has launched an investigation into the business prac-
tices of Fremont, Calif., CD-ROM manufacturer Media Vision Inc., whose
stock price more than doubled last year.
In San Francisco, FBI spokesman Rick Smith said the probe involves
agents from his agency and from the Security and Exchange Commission and
is looking into "security issues with respect to the company."
That is all the bureau had to say, but the San Francisco Chronicle
quotes an unidentified former company executive as saying the probe
dates back to last year and another employee as allegedly telling the
FBI he had been informed of a company official altering sales records.
** Panasonic Offers New Notebook **
Panasonic Personal Computer Co. has unveiled its new DX4/75MHz note-
book computer, which it says is the industry's first notebook with a
"multimedia pocket."
A statement says, "In the standard configuration, the pocket holds a
floppy disk drive. However, the drive pops out to accept any of three
identically-sized optional peripherals, including a 3.5-inch internal
CD-ROM drive, an additional battery pack and a TV tuner."
The unit, priced from $5,399 to $5,899, come standard with 4MB of
RAM, expandable to 20MB, and is available with either 260MB or 450MB
hard disk drives. Color screen choices offer 10.4-inch TFT active matrix
color or 9.4-inch STN passive matrix color, both supported by Local Bus
video. 1MB of VRAM and Windows Accelerator for top-speed performance.
** Motorola to Port Compilers **
Motorola Inc. announced this week that it plans to port its PowerPC
microprocessor compilers to Apple Computer Inc.'s Power Macintosh
computers.
Motorola's RISC Microprocessor Division said its C, C++ and FORTRAN
compilers will all be fully compatible with Apple's Macintosh
Programmers' Workshop development environment.
Motorola said it will begin accepting orders in July 1994 for the
compilers and tools at an initial list price of $349.
** Rechargeable Batteries Under Way **
National Semiconductor Corp. and Energizer Power Systems, a subsi-
diary of Eveready Battery Co. Inc., have joined forces to develop a new
type of rechargeable battery.
Reports say that the two companies are developing longer-lasting,
fuel-gauging battery packs that are simpler to recharge than other
models. The new batteries will be marketed for use in portable computers
and cellular phones.
National Semiconductor and Eveready said the new batteries will
control their charging, eliminating the problem of over-charging.
** Device Stores Terabyte of Data **
A disk array device that can store up to a terabyte of data, the
largest capacity available in a single machine, has been unveiled by EMC
Corp.
A terabyte is equal to the space in 10,000 personal computers with
100 megabyte hard drives.
EMC's Symmetrix 5500-9, which links together dozens of hard drives
that each store nine gigabytes, is about the size of two refrigerators.
EMC is also introducing slightly smaller models that hold 45 to 270
gigabytes of data.
The devices are expected to be used by banks, airlines and other com-
panies that want to store huge amounts of data in a manner that can be
accessed more quickly than data stored on magnetic tapes.
** Aldus Ships Pagemaker 5.0 for Power Mac **
As one of the first vendors to release "native" versions of its ap-
plication software for the Apple Power Macintosh computer, Aldus Corpor-
ation this week began U.S. and Canadian shipments of Aldus PageMaker 5.0
for the Power Macintosh, the latest version of the world's best-selling
page layout application.
The shipment of PageMaker for the Power Macintosh marks Aldus' second
software package to be recompiled and optimized for this platform. Aldus
shipped its first Power Macintosh applications, Aldus FreeHand 4.0, on
April 21.
_____________________________________________
> STACKER 4 NOTES & TIPS STR InfoFile
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-----------------------------------------------------------------
STACKER NOTE STACKER NOTE
STACKER AND WINDOWS FOR WORKGROUPS 3.11
(Applies to Stacker 4.0 for Windows & DOS)
STAC FAX 4201 (03-02-1994)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
BACKGROUND
Stacker 4.0 works with Windows for Workgroups (WFW) 3.11. WFW
3.11 includes a new feature called 32-bit file access (32BFA),
which uses a 32-bit cache called Vcache that resides between
Windows and DOS. Stacker 4.0 does not currently support WFW
3.11's 32BFA. Stac is committed to taking full advantage of 32BFA
and is working to address this important issue. In the meantime,
we recommend that 32BFA be disabled on systems where Stacker is
running.
32BFA and Disk Compression
Vcache is the only disk cache available under 32BFA. This means
that caches such as SMARTDRV are disabled on drives where 32BFA
is enabled. Stacker 4.0 identifies compressed drives as 16-bit
drives to WFW 3.11 and is therefore not cached under Vcache.
Since SMARTDRV has also been disabled, the 16-bit drives are
operating without caching. Naturally, performance suffers in this
situation. For improved performance under Stacker 4.0 and WFW
3.11, we recommend that 32BFA be disabled and SMARTDRV (or other
caches) be used.
Improving performance
32BFA typically operates with a 4 MB cache size. Enabling the
SMARTDRV (or other) cache with a similar size should improve the
performance of your Stacker drives. Non-Stacker drives may perform
faster, slower, or the same as they did with Vcache, depending on
the configuration of your system and what you use it for, but your
overall performance will probably be significantly better than with
Vcache due to caching the Stacker drives
Modify the disk cache to use the same Windows settings as 32BFA
would use
In order to change the size of your disk cache, you will need to
modify its control line in your AUTOEXEC.BAT or CONFIG.SYS file.
See the manufacturer's documentation for your cache for details.
For example, SMARTDRV is usually initialized in the AUTOEXEC.BAT
file. In order to modify SMARTDRV, do the following:
1. Disable 32BFA if this has not already been done.
a. In the Control Panel, double-click the 386 Enhanced
icon.
b. Click the Virtual Memory button, then click the Change
button.
c. At the bottom of the screen, note the current cache
size listed under the 32-bit file access checkbox. You'll
use this number later in the procedure.
d. Uncheck the 32-bit file access box.
NOTE: This has nothing to do with the checkbox on the left:
32-bit disk access.
e. Follow the instructions and restart your system for the
changes to take effect.
2. At the DOS prompt type: ED /A <enter>. This starts the
Stacker Editor and opens your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
3. Change the SMARTDRV line. For example, it may look like
this:
C:\WINDOWS\SMARTDRV /X 4096 xxxx
Insert the number you wrote down earlier in place of the
xxxx. This is the cache size for Windows.
4. Save the file and restart your computer.
Please note that 32-bit disk access is not the same thing as 32-
bit file access. Stacker 4.0 is compatible with 32-bit disk
access.
For more tips on increasing your Stacker system's performance,
see StacFax 4509.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 1994 Stac Electronics
-----------------------------------------------------------------
STACKER NOTE STACKER NOTE
STACKER 4.0 & DISK CACHES
STAC FAX 4409 (05-02-1994)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
BACKGROUND
Stacker is compatible with most popular disk caches such as
SMARTDrive, PC-Kwik, PC-Cache, Norton Cache, and HyperDisk. These
programs will cache the Stacker drive, but not directly. A
Stacker drive is actually a large STACVOL file that resides on
the physical disk. The disk cache will actually cache the
physical disk, and therefore the STACVOL file. As a bonus, by
caching this file and its compressed data, the cache size is
effectively doubled.
Which drive is actually cached?
The "host" uncompressed drive for the Stacker drive (the STACVOL
FILE) is cached. You can use the Stacker program to determine the
uncompressed drive. Type:
C:\STACKER\STACKER <enter>
The output concerning your compressed drives will look similar
to:
Drive C was drive x at boot time [ D:\STACVOL.DSK = 123.4MB]
Drive D was drive x at boot time
(Drive x will be either C or D depending on whether Stacker is
Preloading. See StacFax 4516 for details.)
Note the drive letter in brackets, in this example drive D. Drive
D is the host uncompressed drive for Stacker drive C. When you
write to, or read from Stacker drive C, you are really accessing
STACVOL.DSK on the D drive. By caching D, the programs are
caching this STACVOL.DSK file and therefore your C drive.
Do I need to tell the caching program not to cache the Stacker
drive?
Most disk cache programs will only cache the physical drive.
Normally, they will not cache the Stacker logical drive by
default, so you will probably not have to add any special
parameters. In fact, if you attempt to force the program to cache
the Stacked drive, you will probably receive an error message
such as "unable to cache specified drive".
If you are given the option of drives to cache, specify the
uncompressed drive. For example, if you wish to tell SMARTDrive
4.0 to cache only the D host drive, the command in AUTOEXEC.BAT
would be similar to the following:
C:\WINDOWS\SMARTDRIVE.EXE D
See the disk cache's documentation for details on its
configuration.
NOTE: If your caching program loads in CONFIG.SYS, make sure its
device driver loads BEFORE the Stacker device driver. This
insures caching of the host drive only.
How do I cache a "replaced" Stacker drive or removable drive?
A "replaced" Stacker drive is one which has replaced its drive
letter with that of the host drive. Removable drives such as
floppies, Bernoulli drives and Syquest drives are mounted this
way. In order to cache these replaced drives, they must be
mounted and replaced after the cache has been loaded. This can be
done by:
1. Placing the cache device driver (if it loads in CONFIG.SYS)
before the Stacker line. This procedure only works for non-
preloading DOS versions.
OR
2. If the cache loads in AUTOEXEC.BAT, then type ED /I <enter>
to edit the STACKER.INI file. Add the line /RP=n to the file
(where n is the number of replaced drives). Press CTRL-Z to
save the file. Then, in AUTOEXEC.BAT, after the command to
load the cache, mount each drive (one line for each drive)
with:
C:\STACKER\STACKER X:
where X: is the Stacker drive you wish to mount as replaced.
Is it safe to use a cache's write delay feature with Stacker?
Most caches, such as SMARTDrive 4.0, incorporate a write delay
feature. A write delay, also known as a write back, write behind,
or lazy write, causes the data to be held in memory for a period
of time before it gets stored to disk. This technique makes the
cache more efficient. But if the machine hangs or is rebooted
before the information is written to disk, data may be lost or
corrupted. A Stacker drive will not increase the likelihood of
file corruption. However, it is just as susceptible as any other
DOS disk. You must decide if the extra speed is worth the risk.
The write delay feature is usually selectable, and can therefore
be disabled. The version of SMARTDrive that comes with MS-DOS 6.2
has the write delay feature, but it is disabled by default. See
your cache's documentation for information on disabling the write-
delay feature if you desire.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 1994 Stac Electronics
-----------------------------------------------------------------
STACKER NOTE STACKER NOTE
PKZIP 2.04 AND STACKER 4.0
(Applies to Stacker 4.0)
STAC FAX 4510 (03-03-1994)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
BACKGROUND
You may experience difficulty using PKZIP 2.04 and Stacker 4.0 if
you have a '386 or better computer, have at least 1MB of RAM, and
are using pre-loaded compression (DOS 6 or higher). The
difficulty is caused by the way in which PKZIP uses DPMI
services. Use the -) option on the command line when using PKZIP.
If you wish to permanently disable PKZIP's use of DPMI, use this
option in your PKZIP.CFG file. See your PKZIP documentation
regarding making changes to the PKZIP.CFG file.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 1994 Stac Electronics
-----------------------------------------------------------------
STACKER NOTE STACKER NOTE
STACKER 4.0 SPACE REPORTING
(Applies to Stacker 4.0)
STAC FAX 4603 (05-02-1994)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
BACKGROUND.
Use Stacker's CHECK /D utility to see exactly how the space has
been used in the Stacker drive. Type: CHECK /D drive: <enter> for
a report on the desired Stacker drive. Here is an example of a
CHECK /D report:
Volume in drive C is STACVOL_DSK
No errors found
Saving header information... C:
Stacker Drive Statistics:
STACVOL File Stacker Drive
D:\STACVOL.001 Drive C:
----------------------- -------------------
Total Bytes: 33,447,936
16,078,848
Bytes Used: 28,844,032 ( 86.2%)
13,862,912 ( 86.2%)
Bytes Free: 4,603,904 ( 13.8%)
2,215,936 ( 13.8%)
Bytes per Cluster: 8,192 4,096
Stacker Drive Compression Ratio = 2.1:1
Projected Bytes Free = 4,603,904
Fragmentation Level = 0%
What does it all mean?
The Left Hand Column: This column displays "logical" data in the
clusters on the Stacker drive. In this example, it tells us that
there are enough allocation units (clusters) for 33.4 MB of data.
There are enough clusters left to accommodate 4,603,904 bytes of
data. The DOS CHKDSK program reports these numbers because it
looks at allocation units.
The Right Hand Column: This column shows the usage of actual
physical hard disk space inside the STACVOL.DSK file. The
Stacvol file contains all of the data and free space for the
Stacker drive C. Its name and location are shown in the column
title. In our example, D:\STACVOL.DSK is 16 MB in size and has
used all but 2,215,936 bytes of that 16 MB. Therefore, there are
2,215,936 bytes of physical free space left in D:\STACVOL.DSK.
Compression ratio.
The Stacker drive compression ratio indicates the average
compression of the files in that drive. The compressibility of
the files is generally dependent on their contents. In the above
example, the 2.1:1 ratio tells us that the files in this Stacker
drive are taking up somewhat less than half the space they would
take up on an uncompressed drive. (A 2.1:1 ratio is lower than
the Stacker 4.0 default of 2.5:1. It indicates that some of the
files on the drive do not compress well.) A drive full of
graphics files may achieve an average compression of 8.0:1 or
more. An 8.0:1 ratio would mean that the files are taking up 1/8
the space they would on a standard drive. Conversely, some files
are already compressed, such as "zipped" files. Stacker will not
attempt to compress previously compressed files, so they will
bring down the overall compression ratio of the Stacked drive in
which they reside.
NOTE: The drive compression ratio does not display if the drive
is empty.
Projected bytes free.
This number is Stacker's estimate of the available space left on
the Stacked drive. It is determined by multiplying the physical
free space (right side) by the compression ratio, OR by the
number of clusters left unallocated (left side). The projected
bytes free is limited to the smaller of these two values.
In our example, physical space free multiplied by the compression
ratio would be: 2,215,936 x 2.1 or 4,653,465 bytes. However, we
only have 4,603,904 bytes worth of unallocated clusters. Since
the projected bytes free is the smaller of these two numbers, it
is 4,603,904.
Notes: When the number for physical bytes free goes to zero, the
drive is full. You cannot "grow" the drive to create more
physical space. Also, if the drive is less than 12% full, the
projected bytes free will equal the "logical" bytes free number
(left column).
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright 1994 Stac Electronics
___________________________________________
> STR Review
""""""""""
Kids' Computing Corner
----------------------
THE TORTOISE AND THE HARE
=========================
by Broderbund
by Frank Sereno
Before I begin the review of this week's software selection, I would
like to explain the new numerical rating system which I am implementing
this week. Reviews are always subjective, but I hope that this system
gives the reader more insight into my views of the software and that the
reviews will be more analytical. Scores will range from 0 to 10. I will
be grading each program on its graphics, sounds, interface, play value,
educational value and bang for the buck. Finally, I will post an overall
average score. Eventually I will apply the numeric ratings to all the
products I have reviewed so far and list them in this column. If anyone
would be interested in sending in scores on children's software, these
scores could be tracked in this column also. Contact me at the e-mail
addresses that I will post at the end of this article.
In the area of graphics, I will be grading the program on the beauty
and detail of the graphics as well as the level of interest the graphics
will create in children. If the program uses animations, I will judge the
smoothness. The animations must also entertain or hold the attention of
children. For sounds, I will judge the program on its use of music, sound
effects and voice tracks. Music must be varied, lively and entertaining
to gain a high score. Sound effects will be judged for appropriateness,
clarity and realism. Voice tracks will be graded on the voice actor's
performance and clarity.
Ratings on interface will be based on ease of use of the program,
the availability of audible help, the nature of positive and negative
feedback for the child and screens for the parent to judge his child's
progress with the program. The play value rating is my judgment of the
level of enjoyment the child will have when using this software. While we
wish for our children to learn at the computer, we also want them to enjoy
that experience. Also factored in will be a score of the replay value of
the software. Nobody wishes to buy a product which is only used once.
Educational value will be a rating of how well the program accomplishes
its goals of teaching children. A high score will indicate that a program
was intended to teach several lessons and that the lessons were
accomplished with high proficiency. Bang for the buck will probably be
the most subjective category. This is my estimation of the program's
value to the child's education as compared to the retail price. Finally,
I will average all the scores together for a combined score. At regular
intervals I will post a listing of all the reviewed programs so that
parents can compare the scores. Needless to say, a perfect 10 would be my
highest possible recommendation while anything under 5 would not be
recommended. I must say that all opinions expressed in this column are my
own and I do recommend that you seek several qualified opinions before
purchasing software for your children.
And now for this week's review. The Tortoise and the Hare is another
of Broderbund's Living Book series of CD-roms. Each of the Living Books
is an animated, interactive multimedia book. The program requirements are
a CD-rom drive, a 386 or greater CPU with at least 4 megs of ram, Windows
3.1, a 256 color 640 by 480 display, a Sound Blaster or compatible sound
card, a mouse and about a meg of free hard drive space. This product can
be found at many retailers for under $40. The pages of the book are
illustrations shown upon the computer monitor. A narrator will read the
page aloud to the child. Each word will be highlighted as it is
pronounced. Once the page has been read, the child is free to use the
mouse to click on the objects in the screen to be rewarded with the
display of humorous animations. The book can be read in Spanish or
English.
This Living Book is the story of The Tortoise and the Hare as
narrated by Simon, a friendly purple bird. The book has twelve pages,
each page containing at least a half dozen animations. The graphics are
quite exellent in a style comparable to the illustrations of most
children's books. Each page is very colorful and has many small details.
One page is devoted to six different methods of self-propelment by the
hare and another is devoted to the tortoise. This should teach the child
a few more words in his vocabulary as each word has an animated
definition. The animations are very smooth and entertaining. Even I
laughed at some of the action sequences.
The sounds in this program are very good. A great variety of music
is used throughout the book. Various characters speak to each other in
the story and the voice acting is quite good, better than most Saturday
morning cartoons. Sound effects are used quite liberally and are quite
appropriate. All of the sounds, music and voices are very clear, distinct
and easy to understand.
Any choices that need to be made during the program are done by
moving and clicking the mouse. If a decision must be made, audible help
aids the child to make his decision. Some keyboard commands supplement
the mouse driven commands but these do not need to be used to successfully
operate the program. This program does not have a parent's screen or
track progress because the child is not tested. The intent of the program
is to allow the child to explore the story, hopefully learn some words and
gain a love of books.
Most children will run The Tortoise and the Hare again and again.
The combination of sounds and graphics are very interesting. The music is
quite entertaining and the animations are very amusing. This program is
fun!
Educational value is hard to determine. The program is intended to
teach word and phrase recognition, but more than that it is intended to
inspire children to love reading. It is difficult to place a value on the
love of books and reading. I feel this program does have very good
educational value because it makes the learning fun. I think the child
and parent get a lot of total value from this package too.
And now to wrap it up, here are the scores:
Graphics .................9.0
Sounds ...................9.0
Interface ................8.5
Play value ...............9.0
Ed. value ................8.5
Bang for the buck ........8.5
Average ..................8.75
This is a very good program. If you have pre-readers in your family,
The Tortoise and the Hare would be an excellent addition to your software
library if you have the required hardware.
Finally, if you wish to contribute your own scores or would like to
send comments or suggestions, I can be reached at the following addresses:
Netmail via Fidonet Frank Sereno at 1:2235/10
Internet E-mail frank.sereno@utibbs.chigate.com
As always, I thank you for reading!
____________________________________________
> OPTIMIZING WFW 6.0 STR FOCUS!
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
MICROSOFT WORD FOR WINDOWS
==========================
Version:6.0
Product Support Services
Subject: How to Optimize the Performance of Word 6.0
Application Note
INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THIS DOCUMENT AND ANY SOFTWARE THAT MAY ACCOMPANY
THIS DOCUMENT (collectively referred to as an Application Note) IS
PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESSED OR
IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND/OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. The user assumes
the entire risk as to the accuracy and the use of this Application Note.
This Application Note may be copied and distributed subject to the
following conditions: 1) All text must be copied without modification and
all pages must be included; 2) If software is included, all files on the
disk(s) must be copied without modification (the MS-DOSr utility diskcopy
is appropriate for this purpose); 3) All components of this Application
Note must be distributed together; and 4) This Application Note may not
be distributed for profit.
Copyright c 1994 Microsoft Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
Microsoft and MS-DOS are registered trademarks and Windows is a
trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Western Digital is a trademark of Western Digital Corporation.
PC Tools is a trademark of Central Point Software, Inc.
This document was created using Microsoft Word for Windows.
Table of Contents
-----------------
Introduction 1
WINWORD6.INI Settings: BitmapMemory and CacheSize 2
Configuring Hardware for Optimal Performance 2
Configuring MS-DOS for Optimal Performance 3
Maintaining Optimal Hard Disk Performance 3
Configuring Windows for Optimal Performance 4
Swap Files 4
Windows for Workgroups 5
32-Bit Disk Access (FastDisk) 5
Steps to Create or Enlarge a Permanent Swap File 6
For More Information 7
Introduction
This Application Note describes how you can increase the operating speed
of Word 6.0 for Windows running under Microsoft Windows version 3.1 or
Windows for Workgroups version 3.1.
Word 6.0 is larger and more robust than previous versions of the
application. As a result, performance may be slower simply because your
computer is working harder. However, if you optimize the performance of
Windows, you will also speed up Word's performance.
Optimizing Windows involves both your software and hardware (for example,
processor type and speed, amount of memory, and available hard disk
space). You can use this Application Note as a checklist to optimize both
your software and hardware configurations for Word and other Windows-based
applications running under Windows 3.1 or Windows for Workgroups 3.1. For
more information about each topic in this Application Note, see your
MS-DOS or Windows documentation; for specific references, see the "For
More Information" section on page 7 of this Application Note.
WINWORD6.INI Settings: BitmapMemory and CacheSize
To increase bitmap-redrawing speed and scrolling speed in Word, you can
add the following two settings to the [Microsoft Word] section of your
WINWORD6.INI file, located in your Windows program directory (usually,
C:\WINDOWS):
BitMapMemory: Sets the amount of memory (in kilobytes) reserved for cache
memory for bitmaps. Increasing this number increases the size of the
bitmap cache that Word uses for redrawing pictures quickly. The
BitMapMemory setting should not exceed the amount of available free random
access memory (RAM). The default setting in Word 6.0 for BitMapMemory is
1024K. Insert the setting in the [Microsoft Word] section of your
WINWORD6.INI file using the following syntax:
[Microsoft Word]
BitMapMemory=xxxx
CacheSize: Sets the amount of memory (in kilobytes) reserved for cache
memory for Word documents. The default value for CacheSize is 64K.
Increasing this setting (in multiples of 64K) improves the speed of
scrolling, searching and replacing, the Go To command, and document
opening and saving. If your system has plenty of memory and you work with
many large documents, consider changing the CacheSize setting to 256K or
512K. Insert the setting in the [Microsoft Word] section of your
WINWORD6.INI file using the following syntax:
[Microsoft Word]
CacheSize=xxx
Configuring Hardware for Optimal Performance
Install additional extended memory. Because Windows 3.1 uses extended
memory, the more extended memory available, the better Windows 3.1
performs.
Install the largest hard disk that you can afford, and delete unnecessary
files on a regular basis.
Set the optimal hard disk interleave for your system, using third-party
software such as SpinRite, by Gibson Research. Sometimes a hard disk is
not formatted with the optimal interleave by the dealer or at the factory,
so changing the interleave for your system may help improve performance.
Some utilities can correct the interleave without formatting your hard
disk. For more information about the correct interleave setting for your
computer, refer to your hardware documentation or contact your dealer.
Information: The interleave is a setting that specifies how data loads
onto the sectors of a hard disk. An interleave of 2 uses every other
sector. An interleave of 3 uses one sector, then skips two, loads one,
skips two, and so forth. Slow processors may require higher interleave
settings to successfully read a hard disk.
If your system has a memory expansion board that can be configured as
either expanded or extended memory, configure all the memory as extended.
You can then use the EMM386 program to emulate expanded memory only as
needed by non-Windows-based applications that require expanded memory to
run. In this case, place the expanded memory driver before the device
lines that load HIMEM.SYS and EMM386.EXE. For information about
configuring the memory on your add-in board, see its documentation.
Note: Some expanded memory boards are incompatible with EMM386.
Tip To quickly view, save or print hardware and software information
about your computer, use the System Info feature in Word. To open the
System Info dialog box in Word, choose About Microsoft Word from the Help
menu, and then choose the System Info button.
Configuring MS-DOS for Optimal Performance
Upgrade to MS-DOS version 6.2 so that you can load MS-DOS into the high
memory area (HMA) using the dos=high or dos=high,umb setting in your
CONFIG.SYS file. When you load items into the HMA, you free up
conventional memory that your system can use to run MS-DOS-based
applications. If, however, you are only running Windows-based
applications, you don't need to conserve conventional memory, so you don't
need to bother with loading drivers, programs, TSRs, or MS-DOS itself into
the HMA.
Furthermore, MS-DOS 6.2 provides the Defragmenter (defrag) and ScanDisk
(scandisk) disk-maintenance utilities. For information about using defrag
or scandisk to improve Windows performance, see the "Maintaining Optimal
Hard Disk Performance" section on page 3 of this Application Note.
Make sure you have the most recent versions of HIMEM.SYS, EMM386.EXE,
RAMDRIVE.SYS, and SMARTDRV.EXE in the location specified in your
CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files. (Placing these files in your root
directory does not improve performance.)
Make sure the device=path\himem.sys line in your CONFIG.SYS file is
located before any commands that load applications or drivers that use
extended memory.
Load the EMM386 memory manager (EMM386.EXE) if you are running
non-Windows-based applications that require expanded memory or if you want
to load terminate-and-stay-resident programs (TSRs) and drivers in upper
memory blocks (UMBs).
Load SMARTDrive in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file and allocate the largest amount
of memory possible. The SMARTDrive disk-caching program (smartdrv) can
produce the single largest Windows 3.1 performance improvement. Make sure
the InitCacheSize and WinCacheSize parameters are set in accordance with
the amount of memory installed on your computer. If you use the smartdrv
command with no parameters, Windows bases the size of the SMARTDrive disk
cache on how much available extended memory your system has. See your
Windows documentation for complete information about SMARTDrive.
Set files=60 in your CONFIG.SYS file unless you have a software
application that requires a higher setting. Set buffers=10 in your
CONFIG.SYS file if you use SMARTDrive. Using a high number of buffers with
SMARTDrive will decrease efficiency. If you are not using SMARTDrive, set
buffers=30. While more buffers may improve disk-access time, they use more
conventional memory.
Load only the necessary TSRs, drivers, and programs. Wherever possible,
load TSRs and device drivers into the UMBs. In your AUTOEXEC.BAT and
CONFIG.SYS files, remove or disable all lines for device drivers and TSRs
that are not required to start your system. These may include
virus-detection programs, disk-imaging programs, undelete utilities,
caching programs, CD-ROM drivers, multimedia drivers, terminal-emulation
software, and so on. (To disable a line, use a text editor, such as MS-DOS
Editor, open your AUTOEXEC.BAT or CONFIG.SYS file, type rem at the
beginning of the line, and then save the file and restart your computer so
the changes can take effect.)
Note: Do not disable lines that load network files if the Windows files
are on a network server.
If the environment space is set by a shell statement in the CONFIG.SYS
file, specify a smaller environment.
Remove any commands for mouse drivers in your AUTOEXEC.BAT and CONFIG.SYS
files if you use the mouse only in Windows and don't need mouse support
when you run non-Windows-based applications in 386 enhanced mode.
Maintaining Optimal Hard Disk Performance
Delete unnecessary application and system files, including backup (.BAK)
files, temporary (.TMP) files and files created by undelete disk
utilities. The fewer files your hard disk has to sort through, the quicker
the access time.
Important: Make sure Windows is not running when you delete .TMP files.
Make sure the set temp setting in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file points to a valid
location on a drive with at least 6 to 8 MB of available disk space. If
the temp setting is invalid or missing, modify your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
Consider the following when you choose the location for your set temp
setting:
You should avoid a temp setting that points to the root directory of any
drive (there is a limit to the number of files and directories the root
directory can hold).
Avoid a temp setting that points to a drive that has been compressed using
disk-compression software such as MS-DOS DoubleSpace. Each time your
system accesses a .TMP file on a compressed drive, it must spend time
decompressing and then recompressing the file. Instead, choose a directory
on an uncompressed drive (such as the DoubleSpace host drive) for your
temp setting.
If the set temp statement is pointing to a RAM drive, make sure the RAM
drive is large enough to hold the .TMP files your applications create.
Run scandisk or chkdsk frequently to find lost chains or clusters, and fix
them with scandisk or run chkdsk /f and delete the .CHK files it creates.
Important: Make sure Windows is not running when you run scandisk or
chkdsk /f.
Memory optimization and hard disk maintenance play major roles in how
Windows performs. You can use the MS-DOS MemMaker program (memmaker) to
free conventional memory and optimize your system's memory. To regularly
optimize or defragment your hard disk, use a utility program such as the
MS-DOS Defragmenter (defrag). A fragmented hard disk greatly impacts how
Windows performs, especially if the SMARTDrive program is installed or if
you're using a temporary swap file.
Important: Make sure Windows is not running when you run disk- or
memory-optimization utilities.
Configuring Windows for Optimal Performance
Use a color or a pattern for the Windows desktop background instead of
wallpaper to free memory for running applications. Bitmaps consume more
memory than colors or patterns do.
Using a text editor, modify the [Windows] section of your WIN.INI file and
remove or disable the load and run lines in by typing rem at the beginning
of each line. The load and run lines start the listed programs, which all
consume Windows resources and processor time.
Disable the items in the Startup group by deleting the icons, by moving
them to a different group, or by renaming the Startup group. Each
application in this group starts when you start Windows, which affects how
Windows performs.
Choose the lowest-resolution display driver that will meet your needs. A
high-resolution video driver that supports many colors can consume twice
as much memory and processor time as a lower-resolution driver that
supports fewer colors. For example, use the standard VGA driver supplied
with Windows instead of a super-high-resolution, 256-color VGA driver.
Swap Files
The only reason not to use a permanent swap file is if hard disk space is
at a premium. A permanent swap file, which creates virtual memory, usually
increases performance speed because it uses contiguous disk space. A
temporary swap file attempts to use contiguous disk space, but because of
its dynamic nature, it can't always do so. Therefore, a permanent swap
file usually provides greater performance gains than a temporary swap
file. In either case, you should create the swap file on your fastest hard
disk for best performance results.
Depending on the amount of available extended memory and free disk space,
you may be able to increase performance by increasing the size of an
existing permanent swap file.
If you don't use a permanent swap file in 386 enhanced mode, set the
temporary swap file on your fastest hard disk by modifying the PagingDrive
or PagingFile setting in the [386Enh] section of your SYSTEM.INI file.
If you run Windows in standard mode, set the application swap file on your
fastest hard disk by modifying the SwapDisk setting in the [NonWindowsApp]
section of your SYSTEM.INI file.
To create or enlarge the size of your swap file in 386 enhanced mode,
choose the 386 Enhanced icon in Windows Control Panel and fill in the
options in the Virtual Memory dialog box. For step-by-step instructions,
see the "Steps to Create or Enlarge a Permanent Swap File" section on page
6 of this Application Note .
Windows for Workgroups
If you are using Windows for Workgroups, you can further optimize your
Windows performance by taking the following additional steps:
To optimize the performance of Windows for Workgroups on a workstation
that is sharing resources, do not use a screen saver. Screen savers can
degrade performance on a workstation that is sharing resources. If you
must use a screen saver, use one that accesses the processor infrequently,
such as the Marquee screen saver supplied with Windows.
If your workstation only shares resources (that is, it is a dedicated file
or print server), you can allocate more processor time to the sharing of
resources; to do this, choose the Network icon in Windows Control Panel,
choose the Startup button, and then drag the Performance Priority marker
closer to Resources Shared Fastest.
Important: If you are sharing a locally connected printer, Print Manager
(an application) must be running on the workstation. In this case, you
must leave some processor time allocated to applications so Print Manager
can run. In other words, do not drag the Performance Priority marker all
the way to the maximum Resources Shared Fastest setting.
If you are using a separator page for print jobs, use a less-complex
separator for faster printing. To modify the separator page, open the
Options menu in Print Manager.
Consider upgrading to Windows for Workgroups version 3.11, which supports
32-bit file access (in addition to the 32-bit disk access described in the
next section). The 32-bit file access feature may improve the speed of
file opening and saving and other operations that involve swapping memory
to disk. For in-depth information about 32-bit file access, see Chapter 1
of the Microsoft Windows For Workgroups Resource Kit, Addendum for
Operating System Version 3.11.
Note: 32-bit file access may not improve performance in low-memory
situations, if you use a real-mode network redirector, or if you use
invalid cache settings.
32-Bit Disk Access (FastDisk)
In 386 enhanced mode, 32-bit disk access (also known as FastDisk) provides
improved system performance for running MS-DOS-based applications. It also
improves the performance of Windows by speeding up hard-disk and RAM
access. Specifically, it carefully conserves the RAM each application uses
and controls the frequency with which Windows must access the hard disk
(hard-disk access consumes considerable processor time).
If the 32-Bit Disk Access option is available in the Virtual Memory
section of Windows Control Panel, your hard disk controller is (or appears
to be) compatible with the Western Digital 1003 controller interface
standard (WD1003) and can use this option. Windows 3.1 ships with WDCTRL,
a virtual hard-disk controller device driver that provides 32-bit disk
access on hard-disk controllers that are compatible with the WD1003
standard.
The 32-bit disk access feature enhances the performance of your system's
BIOS by filtering interrupt (Int) 13H calls to the hard-disk controller
and directing them in the most efficient way for the system_either through
the 32-bit interface with the hard-disk controller or through the system
BIOS. 32-bit disk access works directly with the hard-disk controller, not
with the hard disk itself.
Warning: On some computers where the hard-disk controller appears to be,
but is not, WD1003 compatible, 32-bit disk access can cause your computer
to hang (stop responding). Furthermore, 32-bit disk access may be
unreliable (data loss may occur) on some battery-powered portable (laptop)
computers when the computer's power-saving features are enabled.
Steps to Create or Enlarge a Permanent Swap File
Before you create a permanent swap file, you should maximize the amount of
available contiguous disk space; therefore, the instructions below include
hard-disk optimization procedures.
Note: You may need to decrease the size of a compressed drive, thereby
increasing the size of the uncompressed drive, before you can create a
larger permanent swap file.
In Windows Control Panel, choose the 386 Enhanced icon.
Choose the Virtual Memory button, and then choose the Change button.
Under New Swapfile Settings, in the Type box, select None.
Choose OK and then choose Yes when Windows asks if you are sure you want
to make changes to virtual-memory settings.
In the dialog box that asks if you want to restart your computer, choose
the Continue button.
Choose OK in the Virtual Memory dialog box, then choose Exit from the
Settings menu in Control Panel.
Open the Startup group and temporarily move any items to another group or
rename the Startup group.
Quit Windows.
At the MS-DOS prompt, run a disk-maintenance utility such as MS-DOS chkdsk
or scandisk (MS-DOS 6.2 and later). If chkdsk or scandisk finds errors,
convert the lost clusters or chains to .CHK files. Review the .CHK files
to see if you need the information they contain. You can delete the .CHK
files you do not need.
Run a disk-defragmenting utility such as MS-DOS defrag (MS-DOS 6.2 and
later), Norton Speed Disk by Symantec, or PC Tools by Central Point
Software. These utilities defragment your hard disk, which creates more
contiguous disk space.
Use a text editor such as MS-DOS Editor to modify your CONFIG.SYS and
AUTOEXEC.BAT files to include only those device drivers and TSRs that are
needed to run your computer and Windows. Do not load MS-DOS or any other
items into the HMA. These steps free as much extended memory as possible
when you restart your computer.
Using a text editor, modify the [Windows] section of your WIN.INI file and
remove or disable the load and run lines by typing rem at the beginning of
each line.
Restart your computer and start Windows.
Choose the Control Panel icon in Program Manager.
Choose the 386 Enhanced icon and then choose the Virtual Memory button.
In the Virtual Memory dialog box, choose the Change button.
From the Drive list in the New Swapfile Settings section, select the drive
with the largest Maximum Size value. (Remember, you cannot create a
permanent swap file on a compressed drive.)
If the 32-Bit Disk Access option is available, select it so that an X
appears in the check box. For more information about this option, refer to
the "32-Bit Disk Access (FastDisk)" section on page 5 of this Application
Note.
Choose OK, and then choose Yes when Windows asks if you are sure you want
to make changes to virtual-memory settings.
Choose Yes in the dialog box that informs you about using 32-bit disk
access.
In the dialog box that asks if you want to restart your computer, choose
the Restart Computer button.
F
or More Information
Microsoft Windows Resource Kit, version 3.1, pages 258-263, 520-523, and
Chapter 5, "Windows 3.1 and Memory Management"
Microsoft Windows User's Guide, version 3.1, Chapter 14, "Managing Memory
and Performance" (document no. PC21669-0492) or "Optimizing Windows"
(document no. WI52207-0393)
Microsoft Windows for Workgroups Resource Kit, version 3.1, Chapter 9,
"Tips for Configuring Windows for Workgroups"
Microsoft Windows for Workgroups Resource Kit, Addendum for Operating
System Version 3.11, Chapter 1, "Windows for Workgroups 3.11
Architecture," and Chapter 11, "Tips for Optimizing Windows for Workgroups
3.11"
Microsoft Application Note Number WW0335: "Memory Management with Windows
3.0 and 3.1"
Microsoft Application Note Number WW0530: "SMARTDrive and 32-Bit Disk
Access"
The SpinRite, Norton Speed Disk, and PC Tools products included here are
manufactured by Gibson Research, Symantec, and Central Point Software,
respectively, vendors independent of Microsoft; we make no warranty,
implied or otherwise, regarding these products' performance or
reliability.
Page 7
Microsoft Product Support Services
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
:HOW TO GET YOUR OWN GENIE ACCOUNT:
_________________________________
Set your communications software to Half Duplex (or Local Echo)
Call: (with modem) 800-638-8369.
Upon connection type HHH (RETURN after that).
Wait for the U#= prompt.
Type: XTX99587,CPUREPT then, hit RETURN.
GEnie Information copyright (C) 1991 by General Electric
Information Services/GEnie, reprinted by permission
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
___ ___ _____ _______
/___| /___| /_____| /_______/ The Macintosh RoundTable
/____|/____| /__/|__| /__/ ________________________
/_____|_____|/__/_|__|/__/
/__/|____/|__|________|__/
/__/ |___/ |__|_/ |__|_/____ Managed by SyndiComm
/__/ |__/ |__|/ |__|______/
An Official Forum of the International Computer Users Group
*** STReport available in MAC RT ***
ASCII TEXT
for ALL GEnie users!
MAC/APPLE SECTION (II)
======================
R. Dean, Editor (Temp)
(still looking for a MAC Editor)
> NETWORK Services STR Spotlight An Overview, Analysis and Compilation
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" of User Opinions
NETWORK SERVICES; WHICH IS BEST?
================================
EACH HAS SOMETHING "SPECIAL"
Part One
--------
by R.F. Mariano
Through the course of the next few weeks, we'll be taking a good look
at the various "PAY" Network Services ie.; CompuServe, Delphi, GEnie, AOL
and Prodigy. Then we'll examine the "complimentary" networks such as the
international giant; Internet, ITCNET, Usenet and Fido. For now though,
let's look at the pay network services most computer owners use on a daily
or weekly basis. Over the last four months, input has been gathered from
a number of users. We've taken this input and once combined with our own
impressions which have been accumulated over the last six years, tried to
take an objective view of the various services and the manner in which
they... treat their users, schedule their rates, offer real value and
finally, probably the most important, the manner in which they handle "hot
or touchy" topics, issues and subject matter. Hopefully, by the time the
series is completed, our readers will have enough up to date information
at their disposal to ensure they go with the "right" service for their
particular needs. After all, it is you, the user, who must always come
first. We shall strive to emphasize that fact throughout this upcoming
series of insightful articles.
ON THE SUBJECT OF RATES
-----------------------
Instead of actually going with dollar amount comparisons, they really
are far too close to show an appreciable difference to accurately do so.
Let's look at the actual value for the user's time spent online. In this
area of consideration, CompuServe, Delphi and GEnie have a large advantage
over the other services. It appears at this time, CompuServe Information
Services has more true, high speed 14.4bps nodes with true high speed
throughput, actual operating experience and more seasoned professionals in
its executive corps. available to expertly serve its users than most all
the other services. As such, it stands to reason the online user is in an
excellent position to take advantage of this service offering the most
benefits in covering a vast online territory. Among the three mentioned,
combined they have the most files available and online longevity strongly
going for them. As such, these services draw the largest number of new
users. Of course, the trick is to attract and keep the new user. As far
as we can determine, this is indeed the case with the "Big Three".
One major factor becomes a very strong value point, that's when one
employs the use of a "Auto-Navigator/OLR" type program to interface with
the service. At that point, the online user who employs the use of such a
Auto-Navigator/OLR is able to _efficiently_ take advantage of the high
speed nodes (if available) to avail themselves of more of the features and
benefits the Online Service offers. Thus saving online time and money by
doing so.
CompuServe, prevails mightily in this department. One is able to
find no less than eight different types of Auto-Navigators on CompuServe.
Many of the Auto-Navigators are superb third party solutions written for
the popular platforms available and in use on CompuServe. WINCIM ver. 1.2
with AUTOPILOT activated seems to be the popular choice among the many
Windows users on CompuServe. Again, when a quality "front-end" Auto-
Navigator type program is used, the Service is put to use far more
efficiently and deeply thus affording the user a much higher value for his
online fee. In this area, CompuServe is, at this time, the leader in
perceived "value for money spent for online time".
Auto-Navigator/OLR IMPLEMENTATION
----------------------------
Most online services are either "touting" they have or "will have" at
least one platform specific Auto-Navigator/OLR for the popular platforms.
The truth is; only a few DO have a working reliable front end and/or
Auto-Navigator-OLR available and in use. That does not mean that those
services that do not have a good Auto-Navigator/OLR for your platform are
not working on one. As long as you are part of a thriving platform, you
can be sure they are feverishly working one. These fine, easy to use
programs make available to the user every facet of an Online Service with
little or no "interface" difficulty. Difficulties that so often pop up
when newcomers are calling these services with ordinary comm programs.
The true indicator of Auto-Navigator/OLR popularity is provided by those
users who have made the change from their favorite comm program to a Auto-
Navigator/OLR. One hears nothing but praise. Auto-Navigator means a
program that assists the user either automatically or with controlled
input in getting from one place to another on a large service that offers
many areas and benefits. OLR meaning Off Line Reader, this means the user
instructs the program to call the service obtain Email and messages from
areas so designated by the user and disconnect. The user can then read
the mail and reply offline. Once completed, the user directs the program
to call the service and send the replies, file requests, Email etc.. One
can easily see the online time savings to be enjoyed.
VENDOR ACCESSIBILITY
-------------------
A major goal of all online services is to have as many of the vendor/
manufacturers available to its subscribers as possible. Most of the
services have addressed this factor well. As a result, the competitive
edge still relates completely on true value. If a network subscriber is
able to contact more of the vendors/manufacturers in a given amount of
time, that subscriber has received more real value for his/her online
dollar. Also, certain of the newer, "johnnie come lately" online services
are suffering either from a case of the "cheaps", lack of facilities or a
lack of public relations and marketing expertise a significant number of
popular vendors have complained of not receiving flagged (free) high speed
access accounts in order to better serve their users/customers. On the
other hand, services like CompuServe, Delphi and GEnie are very busy and I
might add, aggressively seeking as much vendor participation as they can
garner.
As a paying user, one must pursue the service offering the best
access to the most vendors as this is the lifeblood of economical product
support for both the vendor (hardware and software) and the user.
Therefore, thoughtful consideration of this benefit must play an important
role in choosing the right service for yourself.
In addition, the most important factors to observe are the comments
of other users relative to the overall "attitude" of the online service
and user satisfaction with a given service. There are a few complaints
ranging from gripes about snooty section leaders, ego-stricken SysOps, to
ultra conservative SysOps using too much heavy handed censorship. I have
really seen none of this myself. I have seen a great deal of politics
good and bad but that's what makes it all very interesting. <g>
Thankfully, these types of complaints is are usually few and far
between. In most cases, the upper management of the better online
services are quick to correct such matters. The overall consensus is the
services are providing a real benefit and they are indeed evolving. The
time will come when services are truly serving as vast information sources
that are fully automated with little or no user to user interaction except
in specially designated areas. Its already happening but on a very
gradual basis at this time.
Next time... A look at the rate structures, layouts and popularity.
Remember, if you have a unique experience or comments about the service
you use, good or otherwise, let us know so that others may know too.
**********************************************************************
IMPORTANT NOTICE!
=================
STReport International Online Magazine is available every week for your
reading pleasure on DELPHI. STReport's readers are invited to join DELPHI
and become a part of an extremely friendly community of enthusiastic
computer users there.
SIGNING UP WITH DELPHI
======================
Using a personal computer and modem, members worldwide access
DELPHI services via a local phone call
JOIN --DELPHI
--------------
Via modem, dial up DELPHI at 1-800-695-4002
then...
When connected, press RETURN once or twice
and...
At Password: type STREPORT and press RETURN.
DELPHI's 20/20 Advantage Plan
20 Hours for Only $20!
-----------------------------
Advantage Members have always enjoyed the lowest DELPHI access rates
available. On the new 20/20 Advantage Plan, members receive their first 20
hours of access each month for only $20. If you happen to meet someone
online or find some other diversion, don't worry because additional usage
is only $1.80 per hour.
20/20 Advantage rates apply for access via SprintNet or Tymnet from within
the continental United States during home time or via direct dial around
the clock. Home Time is from 6pm to 6am weekdays. Access during business
time carries a surcharge of $9 per hour. These rates apply for most
services, but note that there are some surcharged areas on DELPHI which
are clearly marked with a "$"sign.
Who is eligible to take advantage of the plan? Any DELPHI member in good
standing. Applications are reviewed and subject to approval by Delphi
Internet Services Corporation.
It's easy to join. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply
online -- at any time -- for membership in the DELPHI 20/20 Advantage
Plan. Your membership becomes active at 4 a.m. Eastern Time on the first
billing day of the following month.
The $20 charge will be billed to you at the beginning of the month to
which it applies. Any portion of the 20 hours not used in any month does
not carry forward into the next month.
-- Advantage rates may be changed with 30 days notice given online.
TRY DELPHI FOR $1 AN HOUR!
For a limited time, you can become a trial member of DELPHI, and
receive 5 hours of evening and weekend access during this month for only
$5. If you're not satisfied, simply cancel your account before the end of
the calendar month with no further obligation. If you keep your account
active, you will automatically be enrolled in DELPHI's 10/4 Basic Plan,
where you can use up to 4 weekend and evening hours a month for a minimum
$10 monthly charge, with additional hours available at $3.96. But hurry,
this special trial offer will expire soon! To take advantage of this
limited offer, use your modem to dial 1-800-365-4636. Press <RET> once or
twice. When you get the Password: prompt, type IP26 and press <RET> again.
Then, just answer the questions and within a day or two, you'll officially
be a member of DELPHI!
DELPHI-It's the BEST Value and getting BETTER all the time!
************************************************************
ATARI/JAG SECTION (III)
=======================
Dana Jacobson, Editor
> From the Atari Editor's Desk "Saying it like it is!"
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
If you missed the eclipse earlier in the week, you really missed
a spectacular sight!! I remember seeing an eclipse as a youngster; and
couldn't miss this one! On the news later that day, I saw various
methods used to view and record this sight - some were accomplished
using a computer and were truly unique.
It's been a hectic week here at the northeast "headquarters" of
STReport's Atari section. Unfortunately, it had little to do with
gathering news for this week's issue but more focused on work-related
stuff. It's also been very quiet in the online community the last week
or so. Perhaps it's been due to the good fortune of pleasant weather
and people are getting outside more getting their homes spruced up for
the Spring. It happens.
Hopefully, our two vacationing staffers, Joe and John, are back
and relaxed. We should be seeing them back in this issue next (I'm
writing this piece earlier than their usual deadline, so haven't talked
with them both yet!).
Well, let's get to the interesting stuff; I've got to find a
better way to ramble early on...
Until next time...
________________________________________
> View 2.5! STR InfoFile! - A Look at View 2.5 - Part 2!
======================
From Greg Kopchak:
I apologize for not posting the rest of the View 2 1/2 revision list. On
Wednesday the UPS man brought Damien a new TT, and he has been slightly
distracted. ;-)
A Falcon is due next week so he will get distracted again I thought today
I would post the planned revision list for the picture viewer in View 2
1/2.
- Will allow mouse selection of options from Help screen.
- Can call up a fileselector to load another file.
- Exits on keypress or mouseclick [even with a Spectrum image].
- Supports graphics cards.
- Dithers much faster in monochrome, whichever dither is used.
- The fast monochrome dither has been adjusted slightly to give better
results.
- If enough memory is available, the "mush" screen will not appear in
monochrome.
- Now displays these formats, in addition to the old ones:
TN4 Mutated Tiny picture (TN1 with color cycling)
IMG GEM Image
PNT Prism Paint
FTC Falcon True Color (from Photo Show)
IFF Amiga & Atari IFF
LBM PC IFF
BL[123] DEGAS Elite Blocks
RAW QRT Raw (24-bit)
PCX Z-Soft PCX
GIF CompuServe GIF
BMP Windows BMP
TGA Truevision Targa
- If the image is larger than the screen, the view can be scrolled with
arrow keys or the mouse.
- If the image is a 24-bit image being displayed with more than 256
colors, gamma correction can be applied.
Here is the rest of the proposed revision list. There are several new
programs listed here; they represent additions to the package.
VIEWFILE.ACC (accessory file viewer) -- New program
- Displays any file using View 2.5 modules whenever you can get to the
GEM menu bar.
- Can "slideshow" files, either all types or just specific families, as
long as the viewers support it. (Currently only the text and archive
viewers do not.)
- ST Zip's View function can also be redirected to View 2.5.
VIEWFIND.ACC (accessory file finder) -- New program
- Can locate any file by name or content; permits wildcards, Boolean
conditions, and phrase searching.
- Can refine or expand searches.
- Can search all files or just specific families.
- Can search for files on multiple drives.
- Will display file(s) using View 2.5 modules, if VIEWFILE.ACC is
installed.
- Can print search results.
- Can save search results to a file for later use.
- Runs as a program or accessory.
VIEWRAMD.ACC (accessory RAM disk) -- New program
- Can install a RAM disk at any time, as large as available memory.
- Can install a RAM disk in place of an existing drive.
- Can remove its RAM disk at any time.
- Uses the same RAM disk drivers as the AUTO folder RAM disk.
- Allows any disk to be write-protected, not just RAM disks.
VIEWBOOT.PRG (cookie installer / RAM disk / file copier)
- Now installs a cookie in the cookie jar.
- RAM disk can use TT RAM, if available.
- RAM disk can be reset-proof, if desired.
- Folders can be created on the RAM disk.
- Files can be copied into folders on the RAM disk.
- If a file already exists on the RAM disk, it will not be overwritten,
if desired.
- The RAM disk can be write-protected after files are copied onto it.
- ViewBoot can boot "silently"; that is, not list everything it's doing
while it's doing it.
- If you attempt to write to the RAM disk while it's write-protected, it
displays the familiar "Retry/Cancel" alert, rather than failing right
away. (This is sort of a bug fix.)
VIEW_SND.TOS (sound viewer)
- Can call up a fileselector to load another file.
- Exits on keypress or mouseclick, but not with mouse movement. (This is
sort of a bug fix.)
- Handles 16-bit and stereo samples properly, playing them to the best
ability of the machine. (This is sort of a bug fix.)
- Now restores the speed setting of Falcon sound. (This is sort of a bug
fix.)
- Now supports SoundBlaster .VOC files.
- Will resample sound "on the fly" to allow playback at _any_ speed on
STes, TTs, and Falcons.
VIEW_CFG.PRG (configuration / installation program)
- No longer requires a separate .D8A file, but always requires a reboot
to complete first-time installation.
- The interface was completely changed, to incorporate the large number
of new features and future expansion.
- Smart Install is now even smarter.
- Now runs in a window, and allows access to the menu bar.
- Is now multitasking (Geneva & MultiTOS) friendly.
- Reports the individual version numbers of the viewer modules.
- Allows new viewers to be added with little effort by the user;
definition files for many popular programs are included with View 2.5.
- Allows existing viewers (including the text viewer) to be easily
replaced.
- Makes backups of important configuration files before altering them.
Overall Changes
- Steps were taken to make the viewers' interfaces more consistent, both
with themselves and with each other. This should make the programs
even easier to use.
- Many changes were made internally, mostly to make View 2.5 callable
from other applications; the files in the HOW_TO folder are a direct
result of this increased capability. [The HOW_TO folder is on the View
2.5 disk.]
- All of the viewer programs have various command-line parameters, mostly
to override defaults. See PARAMTRS.TXT for more information. (These
are provided for the "expert" user using View 2.5 from a CLI or in
their own programs.) [PARAMTRS.TXT is on the View 2.5 disk.]
- With the addition of the accessories, "full" installation will use some
memory. However, the accessories are optional and do not affect the
main functions of the package.
- The viewer programs are, of course, larger to accommodate the new
features.
If you are using View 2.5 on a RAM disk, your RAM disk will need to be
a little larger.
- Rather than use a cumbersome manual addendum, a completely new manual
was written to address all the new features.
- Spc-3375 is no longer included, as VIEWFILE.ACC provides a better
slideshow capability.
- New programs (VIEWFILE, VIEWFIND, and VIEWRAMD) were added to extend
the functionality of the system.
- TROUBLE.TXT and SCRUTNIZ.PRG were included to assist in
troubleshooting.
[These are a troubleshooting guide and a system interrogation utility.]
-----8<-----
Please note, these are the _planned_ changes. Some of these items may
not make it into this version (although I expect just about all will).
There are also some things I have _not_ posted here, because they most
likely will not appear in this version (but I will certainly try to get
them in).
You can see View 2 1/2 at the Texas Atari Festival in San Antonio,
June 4-5. We will have it for sale there. If you've already purchased
View II, bring your disk and manual along and we'll give you a good deal
on upgrading!
__________________________________
> The Old Fishin' Hole STR Feature
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
THE OLD FISHIN' HOLE
====================
-A Guide to the Online PD/Shareware Waters.
by John R. Duckworth
Well, my vacation at The Magic Kingdom has come and gone. I
expected to come back online to find a plethora (my special salute
to the The Amigos!) of new public domain and shareware programs just
waiting to be downloaded. I wasn't too disappointed. This week I'll
take a look at three of the most promising (I had hoped) packages, all
of which will run on any Atari TOS system.
First up is a nifty modular screen saver system by Steve
Pedler called "Darklord". For those who don't have Warp 9 and its
wonderful Extend-O-Save system, "Darklord" is a package designed to
fill most (if not all) of your screen saver needs. At one time, users
were happy to have a screen blanker...but times have changed and so
have the requirements of computer users. "Darklord" is capable of
loading in any one of many different screen saver modules...or if none
fill your needs a complete module design kit is included to help you
get started coding your own "dream" screen saver.
The core of "Darklord" is an accessory which must be loaded in
order for the saver to work. The accessory is designed so well, I was
able to set up the system without ever reading the documentation (But
of course I ALWAYS recommend reading the docs completely just in case
there are any warnings or hidden features). On the "darklord" main
selection screen the user is presented with several icons...each to
serve a different function. The disk icon loads in a "Darklord"
module . The hourglass icon allows the user to select when and how the
screen saver is to be run. Also present is a "Darklord" configuration
icon which sets the basic system defaults, a module configuration icon
which allows the user to set module specific defaults along with the
module flag icon.
While none of the modules are quite as fancy as the "flying
thrones" or "puzzle" modules of Warp 9, perhaps we'll see some more
creative "Darklord" modules in the future. If you don't use Warp 9 and
have a need for a good modular screen saver, "Darklord" is the answer.
The second most promising program I received this week is a
pinball game named "No Limit". I have always loved pinball and have
often wondered why some industrious programmer hasn't made a nice
pinball game for the TOS platform. I remember playing "Pinball
Construction Set" for hours on the 8-bits...nothing on the ST quite
matched that experience.
After loading up the game and pulling back the plunger for the
first time I had high hopes for "No Limit". But when the ball (a tad
too big for the size of the board I might add) hit the flippers my
hopes were dashed. It seems the game needs quite a bit more
playtesting, as the ball's reaction to the flippers isn't quite what
it should be. In fact, it is close to impossible to get the ball to
the left side of the board when hitting it with the right flipper (and
that is where it will go 90% of the time on a real pinball machine
when hit near the tip of the flipper...I should know...after pumping
$20 worth of quarters into Williams Indiana Jones machine last
weekend). The board is also a bit too short for a standard machine,
the game would be much better with a taller board (like twice as tall)
that scrolled with the ball's vertical movements.
I'm glad this crew from Europe decided to program a pinball
game for us TOS users, and hopefully they'll continue to refine it to
a point where it is worth playing.
The last program I downloaded is a Dave Munsie port of the
classic arcade game "Berserk". This version is almost a clone of the
arcade machine complete with digitized voices and the bouncing happy
face. If you have never played "Berserk" or (gasp) are too young to
have ever seen it, the object of the game is to guide a human through
a series of maze-like rooms while avoiding walls, enemy robots, their
shots, and the happy face which comes to destroy you if you linger too
long on any one screen.
Do yourself a favor and grab this game...the $5.00 Dave is
asking for is worth shelling out for the memories his port brings back
to us old timers. Now if he'd only do a "Crazy Climber" port...
Adios for this week Fishin' fans...catch me again, same place
next week. E-mail: JDUCKWORTH@delphi.com.
+----------------------------------------------------------------+
| Old Fishin Hole Tackle Box * |
+----------------------------------------------------------------+
| Darklord |
| GEnie: Atari ST RT- #32752 |
| No Limits |
| GEnie: Atari ST RT- #32766 |
| Berserk |
| GEnie: Atari ST RT- #32760 |
+----------------------------------------------------------------+
* The Tackle Box is meant to provide assistance in finding files
mentioned in the column. It should not be considered a COMPLETE
listing and is provided for convenience only. Delphi Atari Advantage
files should be found in the Recent Arrivals section of the database
until moved to their appropriate sections.
__________________________________________
JAGUAR SECTION
--------------
Featuring; Cybermorph Review, T2K cheats,
and much, much more!
> From the Editor's Controller - Saying It Like It Plays!
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
It almost seems like the calm before the storm, lately. Tempest
2000 has been out for awhile now and the initial excitement is starting
to die down. It appears that as soon as the Jaguar community gets a
new game, they're out there looking toward the next one. Word has it
that "Wolfenstein 3D" is almost ready to go into production, meaning
another 6-8 weeks before the users see it. Can the users wait that
long for another dynamite game? Frustratingly, they will. Everybody's
hoping that June and July will see a massive outpouring of 3rd party
games to keep the excitement alive. Of course, the Jaguar staff here
are anxiously awaiting these new games also so we can test and review
them for you as quickly as possible!
Speaking of testing and reviewing games, we've decided to review
Cybermorph, the Jaguar "pack-in" game as there's always a chance that
another game will replace it in the future. That would mean that
Cybermorph would become a salable item; and a review seems worthwhile.
So, further on in this section, Dom Fontana takes an extensive look at
the game. We're also including some background info on Dom. We hope
that you enjoy them!
In the last few weeks, I've had the opportunity to check out the
remaining games currently available for the Jaguar. Overall, I'm
pleased with the majority of them. I wanted to make some remarks about
each, and personally "rank" them. By all means, this is just my
opinion based on my likes and dislikes. Naturally, you may strongly
disagree with me. If so, please let me know, and why.
Here's how I've rated the _currently_ available games:
1) Cybermorph (tie)
Tempest 2000
3) Raiden
4) Evolution: Dino Dudes
5) Crescent Galaxy
I've found that Atari made an excellent choice for the pack-in
with Cybermorph. It's an excellent game that is challenging, yet with
practice, is capable of being beat (I haven't done it yet, but I will!)
I can't find anything noteworthy to say negative about this game except
that the manual, like most of the games, could contain some more
information pertaining to gameplay.
I was hesitant about Tempest 2000, at first. I haven't played
arcade games in years as I found that they were becoming much too
difficult and thus, expensive to master! Arcade ports to consoles, if
done close to the original, would not likely make it any more
enjoyable. I found that with the Jaguar version of "Tempest", I
enjoyed the "classic" version the least. "Tempest Plus" was fun to
play with the aid of the droid. I'm waiting on a second controller, so
I can't comment on the "Tempest Duel" version. I really enjoy the
"Tempest 2000" mode! While it is more difficult that the classic and
plus versions, I've found that it's more entertaining (and frustrating
at times) to obtain various power-ups. And, being able to play with my
droid buddy certainly helps! On the down side, I wasn't overly
impressed with the graphics to the degree that I anticipated with the
early hype. Maybe it's me, but other than the web changes, everything
else is repetitious and expected. I must admit that the bonus warp
levels are very well done, and pleasing to view. The sound effects,
music, and special effects are very nice as well. However, I _am_
getting tired of seeing CAUGHT YOU!, SHOT YOU! and FRIED YOU! messages!
Another negative are some of the special effects "messages" that come
on the screen _during_ gameplay and making it difficult to see oncoming
enemies and missiles. Cursing a "1-UP!" message is a common verbal
assault at my house lately! But overall, I love this game as much as I
do Cybermorph.
I rated Raiden third because I can play it fairly well. It
reminds me of games that I've seen on my ST in various formats. I
haven't beat it yet, but it seems possible for the average player to
do. I like the graphics and sound effects; both usually take my mind
off of what I'm doing, but I get past that the next time around!
I was disappointed with Dino Dudes, mostly because I find it
difficult to see what's on the screen. I've found the gameplay to be
more difficult than the Lynx version, even on early levels. I need to
spend more time with this game, but Cybermorph and Tempest 2000 has
more of my attention these days.
Crescent Galaxy was near impossible for me to play! Maybe it's
the horizontal scrolling, or the fact the play area is just to small
for me to maneuver well - I don't know. The graphics were nice as well
as the special effects. My negative feeling is primarily toward
gameplay.
Well, that's it in a real quick summary. If you have different
ratings for the games, please let me know. Maybe I'm missing something
that would heighten my enjoyment or ability to play the "bottom" couple
of games.
Okay! We have some interesting news and information for you this
week so I want to get to that. By the way, we're including some game
cheats for Tempest 2000 this week. If you don't want to view these,
please scroll past that section so you don't get tempted! In
future issues, we'll provide you with more various tips, cheats, and
Easter Eggs for other games. We don't want to spoil everything for you
all at once!
Let's get to it! Until next time...
> Jaguar Catalog STR InfoFile - What's currently available, what's
""""""""""""""""""""""""""" coming out.
Current Available Titles ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
CAT # TITLE MSRP DEVELOPER/PUBLISHER
J9000 Cybermorph $59.99 Atari Corp.
J9006 Evolution:Dino Dudes $49.99 Atari Corp.
J9005 Raiden $49.99 FABTEK, Inc/Atari Corp.
J9001 Trevor McFur/
Crescent Galaxy $49.99 Atari Corp.
J9010 Tempest 2000 $59.95 Llamasoft/Atari Corp.
Available Soon ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
CAT # TITLE MSRP DEVELOPER/PUBLISHER
CatBox $49.95 ICD
Hardware and Peripherals ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
CAT # TITLE MSRP MANUFACTURER
J8001 Jaguar (complete) $249.99 Atari Corp.
J8904 Composite Cable $19.95
J8901 Controller/Joypad $24.95 Atari Corp.
J8905 S-Video Cable $19.95
_____________________________________
> Industry News STR Game Console NewsFile - The Latest Gaming News!
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
The Summer Consumer Electronics Show (CES) will be held at McCormick Place
in Chicago June 23-25. Atari Corporation will be showing the 64-bit Jaguar
system as well as the latest software, hardware and accessories.
The Jaguar booth will be at the front entrance of McCormick North Upper.
The Jaguar booth (#6900) will host a minimum of 10 to 15 third party
company representatives... many of whom may not have representation
elsewhere in the show.
The Summer Consumer Electronics Show is THE major "dog and pony"
presentation of hot new consumer electronics products ready for immediate
shipping or available through the 1994 Holiday Season. It is at this show
that buyers of the country's most prominent retail stores as well as
thousands of ambitious one or two location resellers make the big deals
that will directly affect the fiscal success of their business.
Atari Corporation has already scheduled virtually all available
appointments for personalized demonstrations and private meetings with
buyers. Arrangements have been made to accommodate everyone stopping by
the booth unexpectedly. Members of the press should call their contact at
Atari's public relations firm immediately.
Those interested in immediate feedback pertaining to the events at the
show may wish to consult popular online publications such as Atari
Explorer Online and STReport immediately following the June show dates.
News Flash:
*** MAY 10 ***
ACCOLADE JOINS VIDPUB! You can write to Accolade in Message Section 9 at
User ID number 76004,2132. Also, visit the Accolade Library (#9) to view
screen shots of PELE 2, HARDBALL 3, and the soon-to-be-released BUBSY 2:
CLAWS ENCOUNTERS OF THE FURRED KIND.
ELECTRONIC ARTS AND EA SPORTS JOINS VIDPUB! Join us in Section 5 for
related discussions. You can write to Electronic Arts here at User ID
number 76004,237.
KONAMI JOINS VIDPUB! Please read file KONAMI.TXT in their Library (#7)
for a complete listing of their video game titles. You can write to them
at User ID number 76004,3530.
>Atari 1st Quarter '94 Finances! STR InfoFile!
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
05/12 1927 ATARI CORP. ANNOUNCES FIRST QUARTER 1994 RESULTS
SUNNYVALE, Calif., May 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Atari Corp. (AMEX: ATC) today
reported its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 1994.
Net sales for the quarter of 1994 were $8.2 million as compared to
$10.2 million for the first quarter of 1993. During the first quarter,
production of the Atari Jaguar 64-bit Interactive Multimedia System was
limited due to start-up production problems, which are now resolved.
The lower sales and increased marketing costs associated with the
introduction of the new Jaguar system resulted in a net loss of $900
thousand for the first quarter of 1994 as compared to a net loss of
$2.0 million for the same period of 1993.
Sam Tramiel, president of Atari Corp., said, "Now that the hardware
start-up problems are behind us, we are focusing on the development of
high-quality interactive entertainment software. At the end of March
1994, we released the award-winning title 'Tempest 2000.' Game players
around the country were eagerly awaiting the title and we are happy
that 'Tempest 2000' met their expectations. In the second quarter, we
expect to release four to six titles for Jaguar, including 'Alien vs.
Predator' and 'Wolfenstein 3D.' We currently have over 125 third-party
licensees supporting the Jaguar system and between them and ourselves,
we expect between 30-50 titles to be available this year."
Atari Corp. designs and markets interactive multimedia entertainment
systems, including Jaguar, the world's only 64-bit system. Atari is
headquartered at 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94089.
_____________________________________
> Jaguar Dealers! STR InfoFile! CatNip (Jaguar tidbits from Don Thomas)
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
It is not thought that anyone should have any problems finding the
Atari Jaguar 64-bit video entertainment system available near them for
purchase. Just the same, we at Atari Corporation certainly would not want
that to be an excuse not to get one.
This list includes an abridged list of Atari Jaguar resellers across
the country. Many dealers buy through distributors and Atari Corporation
does not service them directly. Consequently, a comprehensive list of
dealers is difficult to assemble. Please feel free to contact Don Thomas
at Atari if you know of another fine reseller in your area that should be
added to the list. This list does not include a verbose listing of chain
store locations. The Jaguar is available for demonstration and sale at
Toys R Us, Good Guys, Babbages, Nobody Beats The Wiz and many other
national or regional chain store locations. Look for the Jaguar to rent at
select BlockBuster locations too. If you are a store manager or store
owner who is not included on this list, please fax your request to be
included to: 408/745-2088.
Many of the locations below are delighted to fulfill mail and phone
orders. Many also accept preorders to assure express delivery when new
titles are released. Please note that this is NOT an "official" list. It
is being maintained informally for the benefit of Jaguar enthusiasts.
Independent dealers are solely responsible for delivery and pricing
advertised and/or promised by them.
FAR NORTH COMPUTERS/ARARI FAIRBANKS AK 907-456-3700
FAR COMPUTERS BIRMINGHAM AL 205-785-4192
MIDCITIES COMP SOFT BELLFLOWER CA 213-867-0626
THE COMPUTER NETWORK GLENDALE CA 818-500-3900
COMPUTER PLUS CHULA VISTA CA 619-691-7844
DEMAND SYSTEMS CARMARILLO CA 805-389-0059
COMPUTER ROCK SAN FRANSISCO CA 415-751-8573
STUDIO RESOURCE CENTER EL CERRITO CA 510-559-8618
LEO'S AUDIO OAKLAND CA 510-653-1000
ATY COMPUTER OAKLAND CA 510-482-3775
TEDDY BEAR TOYS APTOS CA 408-688-6538
B & C COMPUTERVISIONS SANTA CLARA CA 408-749-1003
SAN JOSE STORE SAN JOSE CA 408-249-0455
COMPUTERTIME CITRUS HEIGHTS CA 916-969-4111
STEVES SOFTWARE SALES WOODLAND CA 916-661-3328
COTTONWOOD COMPUTERS COTTONWOOD CA 916-347-0416
HORIZON COMPUTERS DENVER CO 303-777-8080
RUN PC FORT COLLINS CO 303-356-2344
MORRISON COMPUTERS ORLANDO FL 407-649-8733
PALM BEACH MUSIC NORTH PALM BEACH FL 407-842-7451
A-ONLINE TAMPA FL 813-237-1656
NEUTRONICS HONOLULU HI 808-423-0122
IMPACT MARKETING HONOLULU HI 808-833-1893
DATA BASE DYERSVILLE IA 319-875-8711
COMPU-SELLER WEST SAINT CHARLES IL 708-513-5220
COMPUTER CORNER FT WAYNE IN 219-493-6505
COMPUTER ZONE N. ATTLEBORO MA 508-699-0430
TOAD COMPUTERS SEVERNA PARK MD 301-544-6944
SYSTEMS FOR TOMORROW INDEPENDENCE MD 816-252-4738
POWER COMPUTERS KLINTON TOWNSHIP MI 313-445-2983
SOFTHOUSE COMPUTER CENTER GARDEN CITY MI 313-422-6760
TWIN CITIES (339) ROSEVILLE MN 612-631-9420
COMPUTER STUDIO ASHEVILLE NC 704-251-0201
HOBBYTOWN USA LINCOLN NE 402-465-7500
SOFTWARE SPECTRUM NORTH PLAINFIELD NJ 201-561-8777
THE SOFTWARE-HOUSE FAIRPORT NY 716-223-7658
WISER ELECTRONICS LAS VEGAS NV 702-385-7782
ANTHILL COMPUTING MT VERNON OH 614-393-1524
THE COMPUTER SHOPP WADSWORTH OH 216-336-2215
BACK STAGE PASS STUDIOS WEST CARROLLTON OH 513-847-8364
SHELTON COMPUTERS TULSA OK 918-446-5941
IB COMPUTERS BEAVERTON OR 503-297-8425
VISION COMPUTERS EUGENE OR 503-485-1424
COMPUTER GARDEN EDWARDSVILLE PA 717-288-6140
MICRO-COMPUTER DEPOT SUMTER SC 803-775-5165
COMPUTER DISCOVERIES DALLAS TX 214-484-9104
BITS 'N BYTES COMPUTERS ST GEORGE UT 801-628-5755
XANTH BELLEVUE WA 206-643-9697
RALEIGH COMPUTERS LODI WI 901-377-9068
ELDEN COMPUTERS CHARLESTON WV 304-344-2335
CHAING COMPUTER SERVICES ONTARIO, CANADA 613-258-1497
FALCON SYSTEMS NEW W.MINISTER, BC 604-522-2915
EAGLE SYSTEMS KELOWNA, BC V1X 6A1 604-763-4032
### END OF LIST ###
> Jaguar Developers STR InfoFile - Current Developer Lists & Titles
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
* This list is currently being compiled and updated. We hope to have
the most current and accurate information in our next Jaguar edition.
> Jaguar Staff Bio! STR BioFile!! - Dom Fontana Tells It All!
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
New Writer Joins STReport Magazine!
My name is Dominick J. Fontana and I have just joined STReport
Magazine as a staff writer. I will be writing articles on the Jaguar
64-Bit Entertainment System. My initial articles will be software
reviews, but I will also be writing articles on other aspects of the
Jaguar. Following is a bit of information about myself, so that you'll
know the experiences I bring to the table when writing about the Jaguar.
I have lived in New York for my entire life. I originally owned
the Atari 2600 and 5200 game systems. Thereafter, I owned the Atari
800XL and 130XE computers. I sold the 130XE in 1988, when I bought an
Amiga computer, which I still own and use today. Aside from the Atari
classics, most of my current gaming experiences come from the Amiga. I
am not that familiar with the current arcade games. Nor am I that
familiar with the games available on the other gaming systems, such as
the SNES and the Sega Genesis. I basically have a knowledge of the old
Atari games and the current Amiga games and have been playing video games
since 1979. So I do know all the genres of games and have played them,
but I can't really compare the Jaguar games with the games on other
platforms, unless those games also appeared on the 2600, 5200, or the
Amiga. For instance, I have read much about Doom and Mortal Kombat,
but I have never seen nor played them. However, I do have a good
knowledge of all the classic games and many, but not all, of today's
popular games are available on the Amiga, such as Lemmings, SimCity,
and Civilization.
I don't think my lack of knowledge of non-Amiga games should
make my Jaguar reviews any less valid. I also believe that when it
comes to video games, that the gameplay is the most important aspect
concerning the enjoyment of the game. As such, I will concentrate
primarily on the gameplay and report if the game was actually fun to
play. To me, the bottom line is whether or not the game is fun. I will
also comment on other aspects of the game, such as sound and graphics.
However, I will not stress technical details of the games nor compare
them to the games available on 3DO or other systems, unless there is a
good reason for doing so.
While I like great sound and graphics, they alone do not a good
game make. However, since the Jaguar is ostensibly a 64-bit system, I
think people want to know more than if the game is just fun to play,
since there are a lot of fun games on the 16-bit systems. People also
want to know if the Jaguar lives up to its advance billing and if the
games look like 64-bit games. To that extent I will include the
appropriate information in my reviews. However, I have read too many
reviews of Jaguar software where the reviewer appeared to be trying to
justify the Jaguar's existence and in effect became a Jaguar
"cheerleader". My reviews will not be written in that fashion. I will
try to be as objective as possible and will report the good as well as the
bad.
I will include ratings in a number of categories with each of my
reviews. This should add some consistency to the review process and
make it easier for people to compare the relative merits of the games I
review. Right now I plan to write my reviews in the following format:
Title; Basic Information; Opening Comments; How To Play; Opinion;
Closing Comments; Ratings; Quick Ratings Comments; and Summary.
Sometimes I will include a Bonus section containing cheats, codes,
easter eggs, or hints and tips. My ratings will be based on a scale of
1 to 10, with 10 being the best, and half-points will be used, such as
7.5. The planned categories for the ratings are: Graphics; Sound
FX/Music; Control; Game Manual; Entertainment Value; and Reviewer's
Overall Rating. The review format and the ratings are subject to change
in the future in order to improve the reviews.
I look forward to writing about the Atari Jaguar for STReport
Magazine. I am hoping for a long and enjoyable relationship with the
Atari community and with the STR readers.
Let the games begin!
Dominick J. Fontana
CompuServe: 74766,2154
____________________________________________
> CYBERMORPH STR Review
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CYBERMORPH
==========
- Available Now -
by Dominick J. Fontana
Basic Information:
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Type of Game : Arcade (with some strategy elements)
Format : Cartridge
Developed by : ATD
Published by : Atari Corporation
List Price : Included with Jaguar game console
Opening Comments:
Cybermorph is the first game available for the Jaguar and it is
included with the Jaguar game console. Overall I like the game, but
there is just something about it that keeps it from entering the realms
of a great game. It is a decent first effort for a Jaguar game, but I
am expecting a lot more from future Jaguar games.
I found the game fairly difficult to play, but my level of
proficiency with it increased the more that I played it. The sound and
graphics were okay, but not what I expected from a 64-bit game machine.
Certainly the sound was not CD-quality, but the speech in the game was
surprisingly good. I also found the green text in the Message Window
difficult to read. Finally, I give the manual a poor rating since it
did not explain the basic operation of the game in sufficient detail.
How To Play:
You control the Transmogriffon, or T-Griffon, a morphing attack craft
that can fly anywhere within a 360 degree radius. It changes shapes as
you perform different maneuvers. Your enemy is the Pernitia Empire.
There are five sectors in the game and each sector has eight planets.
After you complete the eight planets in a sector, you must complete a
ninth final planet in order to complete the sector. Then you are given
a four-digit code for the next sector. There is one code for each of
the five sectors. Whenever you play the game, you can enter any of the
four-digit codes on the Planet Selection Screen, so that you can start
playing at any sector. In order to finish the game you must complete
all five sectors.
It is unlikely that you will be able to complete all five sectors
in one sitting. Although you cannot save your position in the game,
you can start at any sector, as previously mentioned. However, you
must finish an entire sector in any one sitting in order to complete it.
Generally, you will complete all eight planets in a sector, then
complete the ninth, end of level planet, and then be given the code for
the next sector. The next time you play, you will enter the code for
the next sector and then try to complete that. So it's likely, at least
at first, that you'll be trying to complete one sector at a time, each
time that you play. Since there are nine planets per sector (including
the end of level planet) and five sectors in the game, that makes a
total of forty-five planets that must be completed.
The general gameplay consists of flying the T-Griffon over the
surface of the planets and trying to collect a certain number of Pods,
while at the same time destroying or avoiding the enemies. You collect
a Pod by flying directly over it. In order to complete a planet you
must collect the requisite number of Pods and then fly through the
Portal, which will transport you back to the Planet Selection Screen.
The Portal only appears after you have collected all the required Pods.
You can also increase your weapon arsenal by collecting Weapon Coins.
These Coins appear after you destroy certain enemies or after you
destroy Cargo Carriers that carry these Coins. You start with a Single
Shot weapon that has unlimited ammo. You can collect five additional
types of weapons, each having a maximum of fifty rounds. When you
deplete a weapon's ammo, it is no longer available for use. The five
additional weapons are: Twin Shot, Three-Way Shot, Cruise Bombs,
Incinerators, and Mines. When you acquire the Twin Shot, it will
replace the Single Shot. When you deplete the Twin Shot ammo, you
revert back to Single Shot with unlimited ammo, which at the bare
minimum will always be available to you. You can also acquire Rapid
Fire, which allows you to fire shots much faster. Finally, you can also
collect Super Weapons, but you can only carry one type at a time, and
only five rounds of each type can be held. The Super Weapons are:
Thunderquakers (destroy all nearby enemies), Nitros (give extra speed
and protect ship), and Detonators (destroy most nearby buildings).
The Main Screen displays the following: Score, Number of Ships
Remaining, Skylar (to be discussed), Cross-hair and/or T-Griffon,
Speed, Shield Meter, Available Weapons, Super Weapon, Message Window,
Pod Counter, Altimeter, and Scanner. All these appear over the surface
of the current planet. Each planet is different, with different types
of terrain and objects.
You start with only three ships and your Shield Meter at full
strength. Every time you are hit by enemy fire or you crash, the meter
is depleted. Some crashes destroy you instantly. When the meter is
fully depleted, you lose your current ship. When you lose all of your
ships, the game is over. You receive an extra ship every 50,000 points,
but you only receive the ship after you complete the level. That means
if you reach a multiple of 50,000 points, but lose your last ship before
completing the level, then you don't get the extra ship. You can also
receive an extra ship by collecting an X Coin.
You have a number of ship display options. You can use Cockpit
View, which does not display your ship on screen, or you can choose to
have the ship displayed. If the ship is displayed, you can toggle the
Cross-hair on or off and select from forward, rear, left, and right
views.
Your ship can fly forward at high speeds or fly in reverse at a
slower speed. The Speed Indicator indicates how fast you are flying and
in what direction you are flying. The Altimeter tells you how high you
are flying and also indicates the height of the surrounding terrain.
The Scanner shows hostile and passive enemies, Vortex Towers, Pods,
Exit Portals, and Teleporters.
Vortex Towers emit raw anti-matter which turns the terrain
around the tower a black color. As time progresses, a greater and
greater area of the planet turns black. If a Pod is touched by this
black anti-matter, it is destroyed and you will no longer be able to
collect that Pod. If enough Pods are destroyed making it impossible to
collect the minimum number of Pods needed for that planet, then you will
have to start that planet over, but you do not lose a ship. You can
temporarily stop the Vortex Towers from emitting the anti-matter by
shooting them down to a stub, but you cannot totally destroy them.
After the passage of time, the towers will grow back to full height and
emit anti-matter again, so they are a continual threat. There are no
time limits, per se, to completing the planets; but on some planets
with Vortex Towers, time is of the essence, since if even one Pod is
destroyed, you will have to start playing the planet over from the
beginning. Only some planets have Vortex Towers.
Teleporters are spinning colored circles that appear on some
planets. If you fly into them, your ship will be transported to a
matching teleporter on another part of the planet. For instance, if you
fly into a red teleporter, you will come out of a red teleporter on a
different part of the planet. Flying back into that second teleporter
will bring you back to the part of the planet where the first teleporter
is located. Sometimes you must use teleporters to reach certain parts
of the planet, which would otherwise be "hidden" from you.
On the Planet Selection Screen, you are advised of how many Pods
are on a planet, how many you must recover, and how many Vortex
Towers, if any, are on that planet. You must recover the minimum number
of Pods in order for the Portal to appear. The Portal is always a red
and blue spinning circle that looks like a regular teleporter, however,
the teleporters are always a solid color. You must fly through the
Portal in order to complete the planet and return to the Planet
Selection Screen. Some planets contain more Pods than are needed to
open the Portal. You don't have to collect these extra Pods, but you
receive a bonus for each extra Pod collected. The Pod Counter counts
down and tells you how many Pods remain to be collected before the
Portal will appear. The Message Window gives you progress and status
information during the game and in its normal state tells you the total
number of Pods remaining on the planet.
In the upper left of the screen is a holographic intelligence
agent named Skylar, who gives you crucial battle information and
newly downloaded intelligence about the planet's surface. Normally,
there is a small triangle in the upper left of the screen. When Skylar
has information, the triangle turns into a picture of a green,
bald-headed woman named Skylar and she then literally speaks to you.
The speech quality is quite good and Skylar's face is animated, so it
appears as if she is actually speaking to you. She gives you
information about the game and tells you when the Portal is open, but
she also ribs you if you crash or start flying poorly. You can turn
off Skylar's voice so you don't hear her, but she will still appear at
various times.
Cybermorph also has a High Score table that holds the ten highest
scores, together with your name, and the scores are retained in the
cartridge even after the power is turned off.
In addition to the Joypad, the A, B, C, and Option buttons are
used, as well as the keypad. The game cartridge comes with one
plastic keypad overlay and a 12 page manual. In the default mode, the A
button gives Forward Thrust. The amount of thrust is displayed on the
Speed meter as a green bar graph above the zero point. You do not have
to keep the button pressed down. The C button is for the Brake/Backward
Thrust. When you press it, the speed goes down to zero, which is
indicated by the absence of green on the meter. This acts as a Brake
and your ship will not move. If you continue to hold the C button, the
ship will move in reverse, which is indicated by a blue bar graph below
the zero point. The longer the graph, in either forward or reverse,
the faster the speed of the ship. The B button will fire one of your
main weapons. Holding the button down does not result in repeat fire.
You must continually press the button in order to fire. Since you can
carry up to five different main weapons at a time, you select which
weapon will be fired by using the Option key. Each press of that key
highlights a different main weapon. I found the use of the Option key
to select a main weapon to be a bit awkward. The Pause button will
also pause and unpause the game. While in Pause Mode, you can also
change the volume of Skylar's voice, the sound effects, and the engine.
Joypad left and right will turn the ship left and right, respectively.
Joypad Up makes the ship Dive (go down) and Joypad Down makes the ship
Climb (go up). This arrangement is similar to how flight simulators
work and some people might prefer this method, but it is contrary to
how your ship actually moves on the screen. When you press up, the
ship goes down and when you press down, the ship goes up. Maybe if I
were holding a stick in my hand, this arrangement would make sense, but
with the Joypad, I didn't like this arrangement. Fortunately, it can
be changed.
As you press Up or Down, the ship's altitude is displayed on the
Altimeter. The height of the surrounding terrain, such as a
mountain or building, is also sometimes displayed. Your ship hovers
above the ground, so even at minimum altitude, you normally won't crash
into the ground. However, as the terrain rises, you can crash into it,
if you don't raise your altitude accordingly. However, there is a
limit as to how high you can fly and sometimes it is not possible for
your ship to fly above the terrain. In that instance, you must either
fly around it or use a teleporter to enter the section of the planet
that you cannot reach by directly flying there. Then you use the same
colored teleporter to get back to the section of the planet that you
originally came from.
The keypad allows you to fire your Super Weapon, Toggle the
Cross-hair, select Cockpit, Forward, Rear, Left, or Right views, Reset
the game, and Toggle the main music on and
off. The music only plays
before the game begins. There is no music during gameplay.
While on the Title Screen, you can press the Option button to
reconfigure the A, B, and C buttons, as well as the Up and Down
functions of the Joypad. Every combination of the buttons is
possible so that any button can control forward, brake/reverse, or fire.
Up and Down on the Joypad can also be swapped. The volume information,
control configuration, and the high scores are retained even after you
remove the cartridge and turn the power off.
There are a few other features that add interest to the game.
Besides Weapon and Super Weapon Coins, there are also Energy Coins and
X Coins. Energy Coins recover 1/4 of your total power and X Coins give
you an extra ship. There are also Power Rings on the planets that give
you full power when you fly through them. There is also one Bonus Ring
for each sector. If you fly through it you are given a Bonus World to
explore. However, it is not really similar to the other planets. When
you enter the Bonus World, there are a few rows of powerup coins in
front of you together with a countdown timer and an exit Portal. You
must collect as many powerups as you can and exit the planet before
the timer runs out. If you do, then you keep all the powerups that you
collected. If you don't exit in time, then you don't keep any of the
powerups.
There are also a number of buildings and other surprises on the
planets. Some Pods are housed in Pod Prisons, which must be shot open
in order to collect the Pod. Pods in prisons do not show up on the
Scanner. Force Fields prevent your ship from flying through them.
Power Stations power the Force Fields. You must destroy them in order
to destroy the Force Fields. Spikes prevent you from capturing Pods.
Spike Stations control the Spikes and must be destroyed in order to
deactivate the Spikes. Bunkers can contain a number of different
surprises and you must shoot them open to see what is inside. Finally,
Radar Stations help the enemy navigate, and if they are destroyed some
enemies will be frozen. There are also other surprises that are not
mentioned in the manual.
Opinion:
--------
I like Cybermorph, but I wanted to like it even more. The first
few times you play it, you may not realize all that it has to offer.
With repeated play and experimentation, you'll come to realize that
this is a sophisticated game that has much more to offer than originally
meets the eye. There is a level of strategy involved, which is not at
first readily apparent. There are actually some puzzles involved
within the gameplay itself. Not puzzles in the traditional sense; but
clever ways of figuring out how to rescue the Pods.
So I do consider Cybermorph to be a good game. But while I like
it, there is some indefinable quality that it's missing, that prevents
it from being a great game. I hesitate to say that the game isn't fun
or that it lacks staying power because I do keep returning to play the
game. The problem is that I have not been driven to play the game on a
continual basis, as I was, for instance, with "Lemmings". I bought the
Jaguar in mid-January and to date, about 3-1/2 months later, I still
haven't completed it. And it's not because of the difficulty level,
but because I haven't played it every day. With some new games, I'm so
excited and find them so much fun to play that I play them virtually
every chance I get until I complete them. Cybermorph did not have that
effect on me. It is not an addicting game. I still look forward to
playing it and I have fun and am satisfied after I play it, but I'm not
driven to play it again the very next chance that I get. For me, it
has not been one of those games where I stayed up until 2:00 in the
morning thinking that I have to complete one more level. I play it
periodically, but not continually.
I don't know exactly what is lacking in Cybermorph that causes
me to feel this way. Maybe I find it to be a bit repetitious. There
are a few surprises along the way, but basically you fly around a
planet looking for Pods and destroying or avoiding enemies. And
although each planet is different, I found that there wasn't enough
variety in the scenery or terrain to make each planet seem like an
entirely new experience. For instance, on many planets, even though
the mountains and buildings are in different places, they still look
like the same mountains and buildings. Most of the planets just look
like a variation of the same planet. I think that having different
types of terrain and buildings on each planet would heighten the effect
of visiting a brand new world and would enhance the gameplay. While I
consider the gameplay to be the most important element of a game, the
sound and graphics can enhance a game, if it has good gameplay to start
with. Cybermorph has good gameplay, but I didn't like the polygon
graphics. I also found that the colors were rather dull and that there
wasn't enough variety in the colors that were used. There is no music
soundtrack and the sound effects were of less than CD-quality. Also,
certain sounds, such as the engine and the laser shots, did not sound
like digitized samples of the real thing, which is what I was expecting.
They sounded like synthesized sounds. On the plus side, the stereo
effect was very nice. If you are shot or crash on the left side
of your ship, the sound comes out of the left speaker and vice versa.
At first I had trouble controlling the ship. Since it was my
first Jaguar game, I had to get used to using the Joypad, since I am
accustomed to using a joystick. But I would have had this problem
with whatever was the first Jaguar game. Then after becoming
accustomed to the Joypad, I still had trouble controlling the T-Griffon
at high speeds. With a little practice though, I am now very adept at
using the controller to control the game. However, I still find it
awkward to use the Option button to change my weapon selection. That
is difficult to do in the heat of battle and it is something that needs
to be done quite often during the game. I also find it difficult to
use the keypad during play. A keypad is excellent for selecting
options before the game or for making selections during the game, where
time is not a factor, such as selecting what pitch to throw in a
baseball game. But I have trouble using the keypad during the heat of
battle or when flying very fast, when it's difficult to take your eyes
off the screen to glance at the keypad. Fortunately, with Cybermorph
the main function of the keypad is to fire your Super Weapon and since
the top 1, 2, and 3 keys all perform this function, it's not that
difficult to do. Most of the other keys are for selecting your view
and that does not have to be done that often, if at all.
I did not like the Game manual at all. Not counting the covers,
title page, illustrations, and credits, it only contains less than six
pages of text. That is not enough to adequately describe the game. The
bulk of the manual just contains a series of lists that itemize the
Game Controls, Weapons, Powerup Coins, Main Screen, Buildings, and
Scoring. There is very little text covering how to actually play the
game. There is less than one page devoted to Strategy and Hints and
this is the most helpful part of the manual. Much of the information
contained in this section is actually integral to the basic gameplay
and should not have been classified as strategy or as hints.
There was too much left out of the manual. For instance, the
manual never mentions exactly how to pick up a Pod or how to pick up a
Powerup Coin. It never mentions that many items require more than one
shot to destroy them or that the Vortex Towers cannot be completely
destroyed. It fails to mention that your ship can be destroyed, even
with full Shield Power, if you crash into certain items. It doesn't
tell you how or when to enter the four-digit code to go to another
sector. Other than a brief mention that High Scores are retained in
the cartridge, it says nothing about the High Score Table or how to
enter your name into it.
There also should have been more illustrations. The manual only
contains figures for the controller, keypad overlay, and the Main
Screen. Items such as Powerup Coins, Vortex Towers, and Teleporters
should have also been illustrated. The manual just got me started,
but I really didn't understand what to expect from the game until after
I had actually played it for some time.
Closing Comments:
-----------------
Since Cybermorph is included with the Jaguar console, every
Jaguar owner already has it. There is no option as to whether or not
a person wants to buy it. However, maybe it won't be included with the
Jaguar in the future and someone reading this review will want to know
if they should buy it separately. Despite the negative points that I
have brought up, I still recommend Cybermorph. Not every game can be
a "10". The negative points I made about Cybermorph were the reasons
that I felt that it wasn't a "10". However, a game doesn't have to be
a "10" to be a lot of fun. Cybermorph is a fun game and the gameplay is
very good. It may not be as addicting as some other games I have
played, but I do continue to play it and to enjoy it. And I will
continue to play it until I have completed it and then I'll probably
play it some more just to fly around and explore. While I don't feel
that the sound and graphics take full advantage of the Jaguar's
capabilities, they are still good, nonetheless. Once you get used to
the controls, they are generally very good overall. And since I always
read my manuals, I feel cheated if they are not complete. But once you
play the game for awhile, the completeness of the manual is not that
important. So many of the negative points that I mentioned in this
review are relatively minor.
I think a lot of what I didn't like about Cybermorph was not so
much that it wasn't a fun game, but that I was expecting more from the
Jaguar. I had very high expectations due to the sophistication of the
Jaguar's hardware and I was probably letting myself in for a letdown.
However, upon reflection, it's a very good effort for the Jaguar's
first game and it is a lot of fun. Be aware that it will take some
time for the programmers to become familiar with the Jaguar and to
produce games that take full advantage of its power. Overall,
Cybermorph is a good game and I recommend it.
Ratings (based on 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest):
Graphics: 7.0
Sound FX/Music: 6.5
Control: 8.0
Game Manual: 4.0
Entertainment Value: 8.0
Reviewer's Overall Rating: 7.5
Quick Ratings Comments:
Graphics:
---------
I don't like polygon graphics and there wasn't enough variety in the
graphics nor in the number of colors used.
Sound FX/Music:
---------------
The sound effects didn't have the quality of 16-bit sampled sounds
and there was no music during gameplay. But the sound effects used were
appropriate and the stereo effect was very nice. Plus, Skylar's speech
was very good.
Control:
--------
After some practice, the joypad and 3-button control was second
nature. The use of the Option button and the keypad was still a bit
awkward.
Game Manual:
------------
The manual was incomplete and didn't go into enough detail about how
to actually play the game. Many important items were not even mentioned
and there should have been more
illustrations.
Entertainment Value:
--------------------
The game was fun and interesting whenever I played it. However, it
was not really an addicting type of game that beckoned me to continue
playing for hours on end just to try and complete one more level. I
played the game at my leisure.
Reviewer's Overall Rating:
--------------------------
This rating is not meant to be an exact mathematical average of the
above ratings, since some aspects of the game represented by the above
ratings are more important to the quality of the game than others. The
low rating for the Game Manual doesn't lower the overall rating that much,
since you can learn what the manual omits, over a short period of time, by
repeated play. Overall, Cybermorph is a good game and is fun to play, with
enough variety to hold your interest and to keep you coming back for more.
Summary:
--------
A good solid first offering for the Jaguar that became more
interesting and fun the more that I played it. Every time I played it,
I discovered something new about the game. The sound and graphics were
adequate, but not as good as I expected from a 64-bit interactive
multimedia system. Overall, I recommend Cybermorph, but I am expecting
more from future Jaguar games.
BONUS:
CYBERMORPH SECTOR CODES
As a special bonus, I have included all the Sector Codes for
Cybermorph. Use these codes to enter any sector at any time. The codes
are entered on any Planet Selection Screen simply by pressing the
appropriate numbers on the keypad. Any completed planets in a sector will
not reappear if you leave that sector and then return to it. The Sector
Codes are as follows:
Sector Code
1 1008
2 1328
3 9325
4 9226
5 3444
Unknown 6009
Note: For the Unknown Sector, there are four identical looking
planets. Three of the planets only contain massive enemy forces. One
planet contains nothing but Bonus Powerups. The Bonus Powerup Planet
is located on the lower right-hand side of the Planet Selection Screen.
You can enter the code for the Unknown Sector, go to this planet and
collect all the bonus powerups, and then exit the planet. Then you can
enter a code for another sector and begin playing the game with all
your bonus powerups intact.
________________________________________
> Jaguar Easter Eggs, Cheats, & Hints STR InfoFile
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Tempest 2000 Easter Egg
Controller Type Selection
Plug in two Jaguar controllers into their controller ports on the
front of the Jaguar. Insert the Tempest 2000 game cartridge into
the Jaguar console. Press the POWER button. After the startup
sequence, the Tempest 2000 title screen will start. Press any fire
button on controller one to enter the Main Game Menu Screen.
To enable the Controller Type selection, hold down [PAUSE] and
[OPTION] on controller two and hit [PAUSE] and [OPTION] on
controller one. You should be able to hear an audible confirmation
of "Excellent." On the Tempest 2000 Game Option Screen, you should
now have a third option called controller type. The option allows
the player one and two controllers to be configured as a joypad or
rotary type controller. Without the use of a rotary type
controller, configuring a joypad controller as a rotary renders
the game unplayable. Please Note, the following easter egg is
permanent and will remain in effect forever, unless you physically
reset your Tempest 2000 game cartridge as described in your game
instruction booklet.
Web Rotation
Insert the Tempest 2000 game cartridge into the Jaguar console.
Press the POWER button. After the startup sequence, the Tempest 2000
title screen will start. Press any fire button to enter the Main Game
Menu Screen. With the joypad select a game and press any fire button.
On the web select screen, UP and DOWN will select web levels, but
LEFT and RIGHT will rotate the web on the screen allowing full control
of your view of the web.
________________Joypad_______________
Increase
Web Level
O
Rotate | Rotate
Web Left O-*-O Web Right
|
O
Decrease
Web Level
Web Level Tempest 2000
Game Cheat Level Warp and Bonus Level Select
Insert the Tempest 2000 game cartridge into Jaguar console. Press
the POWER button. After the startup sequence, the Tempest 2000 title
screen will start. Press any fire button to enter the Main Game Menu
Screen. With the joypad, move the pointer to the game you wish to play
without selecting it. At this point, hold down the following keypad
keys simultaneously [1]-[4]-[7]. Next, Press the [A] fire button to
select the game while holding down the previously mention keypad keys.
You should be able to hear an audible confirmation of "Yes" for the
game selection and an "Excellent" for the level select and bonus level
select code acknowledgment. The game will appear to play and act
normal except for the behavior of the [OPTION] and [6] key. On any level
at any time, when the [OPTION] key is pressed, the message "Outta Here"
will appear and you will immediately be warped from the current web
to the next web and given 5000 bonus points (9000 points in Beastly
Mode). To use the bonus level select, press [6] at any time during
the game play and the "Warped Enabled" message will appear. Now, upon
completion of the web (or [OPTION] for "Outta Here") you will
automatically enter one of the three bonus levels.
Cheat Codes
Outta Here........To enable, on Game Menu press [1]-[4]-[7] and [A].
Outta Here........To use, during game play press [OPTION] to warp
from current web to next web.
Warp Enabled......To use, during game play press [6] and [OPTION]
to warp to one of the three bonus stages.
_________________________________________
> ONLINE WEEKLY STReport OnLine The wires are a hummin'!
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
PEOPLE... ARE TALKING
=====================
On CompuServe
-------------
compiled by
Joe Mirando
Hidi ho good neighbors and neighborettes. Well, I'm back from my
honeymoon and ready to resume this column. I had a column ready for the
issue before last but the old (as in early production model) STe decided
to trash my hard drive. While I have a decent backup of just about
everything, that column just wasn't destined to be seen. Its too bad
too. There was a lot of good stuff in that column.
Fortunately, there's lots of good stuff to be found on CompuServe
every week. So let's take a look...
From the Atari Productivity Forum
=================================
Chris Filby asks:
"Is it possible to obtain an IBM version of the game FROGGER which was
available for the original Atari computer? What about other Atari
games?"
Sysop Bob Retelle tells Chris:
"I don't ever remember seeing a version of Frogger for the IBM, either
an "official" version, or a shareware conversion...
I know there were a few "AtariSoft" versions of early Atari games
released a long time ago for the IBM, but that was a long time before I
was involved at all in the PC world.
You might try asking in the Atari Gaming Forum (GO ATARIGAM) to see if
anyone there remembers any of these games, or the IBM New Users Forum
(GO IBMNEW) where most of the IBM specific gaming folks are... also
the Gamers Forum might be a good place to ask, in their "Arcade Games"
section, (GO GAMERS)/
It's been a long time since Atari has released any software of its
own. Have you checked out the MicroSoft Arcade for Windows..? It has 5
conversions of original Atari games in it that are pretty good..!"
Meanwhile, Mike Myers tells us:
"I downloaded Gview2, but all the instructions are in German. Is there
an English translation? What I really want is some program that will
handle pictures and maps for me. I don't have the equipment to put some
one else's in, nor am I skilled enough to create my own, so it can be
simple."
Bob Retelle tells Mike:
"I don't remember the exact layout of the menus in Gemview, but it
should be fairly easy to just get it to load and display a picture
file, unless the menus themselves are in German.. (I've run into a few
programs that are like that, and it can turn into an "adventure game"
just trying to get it to do anything at all..!)
I'll try to remember to take a look and see if I can give you some
help in getting the basic functions going..."
Russell Yonkers asks:
"Where can I get a copy of the AtariWorks software? How much does it
cost?"
Rob Rasmussen tells Russell:
"Among other vendors, you can call Computer Studio (800-253-0201) or
Toad (800-448-TOAD) to order Atari Works. I recently did this myself.
It costs around $110."
Russell asks:
"Are there any Atari Dealers in the South Bend IN or Kalamazoo Mi
areas? Is there any good listings of mail order houses for Atari
stuff?"
Sysop Bob Retelle tells Russell:
"We have a little database ACCessory program in the Atari Computing
Forum called ADB (Atari Data Base) that comes with a data file
containing a lot of the still remaining Atari dealers and sources for
hardware/software support... check it out for some names and phone
numbers to try..."
Mike Myers asks for help in locating a particular program:
"I've been looking for animap.lhz. Do you know if it has been purged.
I need a program to handle weather maps. Any suggestions?"
The big Kahuna himself, Chief Sysop Ron Luks, tells Mike:
"ANIMAP.LZH is alive and well and available for downloading from LIB 5
of this forum."
Mike tells Ron:
"First, my apologies, I think. I wrote last night asking what happened
to animap. I had been trying to get it earlier, using the download
function. I got a "no file" response. After I wrote to you, I tried it
thru "browse" and it turned up, alive and well. But, it's a demo. Do
you know if there are any free or shareware programs that can decode
the weather maps in the Weather section? or is there a way to download
them and open them with the unassisted computer. There was earlier a
direction in the Weather section to download a program from the GIF
section, but I couldn't find it."
Sysop Jim Ness jumps in and tells Mike:
"If you're talking about the result you get when you download the maps
at GO WEATHER, you can use any of a bunch of utilities in ATARIARTS.
Those are GIF files. I recommend GEMVIEW. It's a huge download, but
it does everything you'll ever need a graphics utility to do.
But there are several other, smaller utilities, too."
Walter Pettway tells us:
"I'm new to this forum, so I've probably got the wrong place, but here
goes. I have an old Atari 800 computer which I used to create an large
data base using the Synfile+ program. I've just purchased a IBM
compatible(486) and would like to know if there's any way to convert my
Atari Dos files to MS Dos. IF I can"t , I've got months of data input
in front of me. Can anyone help?"
Mike Mortilla tells Walter:
"If you can save the old Atari files as ASCII files and then upload
them (or e-mail them to yourself) from the Atari, you could then
download them to the IBM.
You might also be able to use a null modem canle but I'm not sure of
the old Atari set-up in this regard. Maybe others are better informed
and can help you."
Walter tells Mike:
"Thanks for the reply, I'll have to look at the old Atari manuals to
see if there is an ASCII files save option. It would cetainly save me a
lot of tedious work if it works."
Matt Carter asks about cross-platform compatability:
"I'm looking for a program that will run on my Mac, but allow me to
read and use my Atari 520 ST discs...does anyone out there know of such
an animal and where I can find it."
Sysop Ron Luks tells Matt:
"Sure dont know of any such program. Sorry. You can read your Atari
disks with a MAC running a PC Emulator or a progrtam that simply reads
PC disks, but you wont be able to run the programs."
Lou Trapani tells Matt:
"Apple supplies the Apple File Exchange program bundled with all Macs.
This is an excellent program for transferring files to and from Atari
ST disks from the Mac. Just have to make sure that the Atari disks were
formatted in a MS-DOS compatible format (not Twister or such...). There
are other programs as well that read PC/Atari disks on the Mac, such as
PC Access."
Mitch Crane tells us:
"I've had this new PowerMac for a few weeks now -- it emulates the 68k
CPU at blazing speeds -- and I was just sitting here looking in my
drawer full of hundreds of disks full of useless ST software (I no
longer have a working ST) and I thought 'Wouldn't it be great'.
So are there any software wizards out there whom I might could talk
into doing a PowerPC ST emulator? Where is Dave Small? I know Darek has
his Intel based emulator thingy.
It's been a while since I was heavily involved with Atari computers,
but I would sure love to be able to play some of my old ST games on the
PowerMac; I really do miss my ST."
In a related message, Brian Huff posts:
"I'm working on an emulator for Macintosh that will run Atari
programs.(I can't get enought of the old Atari!) I'm able to get the
Biox and Xbios routines to work, but am having some problems with GEM.
Does anyone know where I might be able to find any kind of source or
reference to GEM?
Any help in this matter would be greatly appreciated! I'm going to
post the emulator once I get a good beta version running. Any and all
comments are welcome!"
Sysop Ron Luks tells Brian:
"Since DRI dropped GEM you wont be able to get much support from them.
However, the Atari Development team is still up and running. Drop an
EMAIL to J Patton 70007,1072 and see if he can point you in the right
direction."
Michael Stacie tells Brian:
"GEM was made for dos and various other systems. You can sometimes
find books on GEM in large bookstores if you live in a big city (Barnes
and Knoble).
Also, try the library there is usually one dusty volume somewhere on
GEM.
Mitch Crane comes back and yells:
"Hey! You're just the guy I've been looking for. I would kill for an
Atari emulator for my MAC.
Just make sure it works on the PowerMac!
Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeez."
Brian tells Mitch:
"Not to worry, it'll be ported to the PowerMac. Just as soon as I
finish the GEM routines.
I'll be posting a beta version in a few months. So far, the emulator
will only run some TOS and TTP programs. (Having some problems with
getting the GEM desktop to come up.) Keep an eye out, I'll post a
message here, and in the MACDEV forum when I'm finished.
If you 'd like, I'll add your name to my mailing list of beta testers.
Just send me a message using CompuServe Mail. Make sure to send it to
the following address: 111111,23"
Kevin at PG Music tells Brian:
"I'm interested in your Atari emulator. :) I've got a Quadra 660av
8/230CD I could test it on. Also, I've got a Falcon030 and 1040STf to
compare with. :)
For a good Atari GEM book, try the Atari Compendium by Scott Sanders.
If, somehow using the MMU and other 030/040 features, emulate the Atari
hardware, you should have few problems getting GEM up & running,
except in interleaved bitplane modes. I don't think the mac uses
interleaved bit planes."
Boris Molodyi tells Brian:
"If you would be interested, I wouldn't mind helping you betatest your
program. We have a Mac Classic with System 6.0.7 and PowerBook 145
with 7.1..."
Well folks, its been a looong couple of weeks, so I'm going to sign off
now and get some much-needed sleep.
As an added bonus, I'll leave you with a few of the phrases that I
learned while I was honeymooning in Jamaica. The most popular phrases
in Jamaica are:
"No Problem, Mon",
"Irie" (pronounced like Irene without the "r"), and
"Respect" (sort of a catch-all meaning anything from "rightious" to
"Cool".
Well, its time for me to go. C'mon back next week and be ready to listen
to what they are saying when...
PEOPLE ARE TALKING
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
STReport's "EDITORIAL CARTOON"
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
> A "Quotable Quote" This guy is gonna run for President???
""""""""""""""""" YIKES!!
March 23, 1990
--------------
Quayle declares, "If we do not succeed, we run the risk of failure."
May 1, 1990
-----------
Quayle warns of danger of asteroids crashing into Earth.....
"It would certainly benefit all nations to know when such a natural event
might occur ... Those same asteroids which promise material riches can be
a threat as well."
Quayle "EGGS"
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
> DEALER CLASSIFIED LIST STR InfoFile * Dealer Listings *
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" ---------------
ABCO Incorporated
=================
P.O. Box 6672
Jacksonville, Florida 32221-6155
Est. 1985
1-904-783-3319
1994 SPRING SPECIALS NOW IN EFFECT!
------------------------
ABCO manufactures custom storage devices!
INTEL 32 BIT 486/66, VLB w/Math CoProcessor
8MB ram upgradable to 32MB 1MB SVGA VESA VIDEO CARD
Sound Blaster Compatible Stereo Sound Card
DOS 6.2 - Windows for Workgroups 3.11 Included
128K CACHE - 1.44/1.2 FLOPPY Drives, Mouse & 101 deluxe Keyboard
250MB IDE hd - 2 SERIAL, 1 PARALLEL, 1 GAME PORTS
250W POWER SUPPLY TOWER SYSTEM
14" Non-Interlaced SVGA 1024x768, 28dpi Monitor
40Mhz VLB, S&H Incl 1595.00
595.00 with order, balance COD
other higher powered packages available
or, design your own! Call for value added pricing!
Call: 904-783-3319 Anytime, Voice Mail
=====******=====
Syquest Removable 44-105-270mb SCSI Drives
All Size Platters Available
Diamond Speed Star 24x SVGA/VGA Video Card w/1mbVRAM
Diamond Stealth & Viper 1mb & 2mb - Call for prices
Enhances Windows SPEED and EFFICIENCY
Diamond High Performance Sound Cards Available
Soundblaster Cards and compatibles 8 & 16 bit
Pro Audio Spectrum STUDIO 16 - 16bit - Midi - Audio Recognition
Top of the Media Vision PAS Line - True Multi-Media
IDE Super IO cards & 16550 UART 2 & 4 Port Cards
Call: 904-783-3319 Anytime, Voice Mail
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
COMPUTER STUDIO
===============
WESTGATE SHOPPING CENTER
40 Westgate Parkway -Suite D
Asheville, NC 28806
1-800-253-0201
Orders Only
1-704-251-0201
Information
FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
EAST HARTFORD COMPUTER
======================
202 Roberts St.
East Hartford CT. 06108
1-203-528-4448
FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
MEGABYTE COMPUTERS
==================
907 Mebourne
Hurst, TX 76053
1-817-589-2950
FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
SAN JOSE COMPUTER
=================
1278 Alma Court
San Jose, CA. 95112
1-408-995-5080
FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
CompuSeller West
================
220-1/2 W. Main St.
St. Charles, IL., 60174
Ph. (708) 513-5220
FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
(DEALERS; to be listed here FREE of Charge, please drop us a line.)
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
STReport International Online Magazine
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AVAILABLE ON OVER 20,001 PRIVATE BBS SYSTEMS
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
STR Online! "YOUR INDEPENDENT NEWS SOURCE" May 13, 1994
Since 1987 copyright (c) 1987-94 All Rights Reserved No.1020
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
All Items quoted, in whole or in part, are done so under the provisions of
The Fair Use Law of The Copyright Laws of the U.S.A. Views, Opinions and
Editorial Articles presented herein are not necessarily those of the
editors/staff of STReport International Online Magazine. Permission to
reprint articles is hereby granted, unless otherwise noted. Reprints must,
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staff and contributors are not and cannot be held responsible in any way
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""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
