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Atari Explorer Online Issue 1993 13
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:: Volume 2 - Issue 13 ATARI EXPLORER ONLINE 26 July 1993 ::
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
:: ::
:: ATARI .............. News, reviews, & solutions ............ ATARI ::
:: EXPLORER ............ for the online Atari .......... EXPLORER ::
:: ONLINE ................. Community .............. ONLINE ::
:: ::
:: Published and Copyright (c) 1993 by Subspace Publishing ::
:: """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" ::
:: Publisher ........................... Michael Lindsay EXPLORER ::
:: Editor .................................. Travis Guy AEO.MAG ::
:: News and Features Editor ............... Ron Kovacs Z-NET ::
:: Assistant Editor GEnie............... Ron Robinson EXPLORER.1 ::
:: Assistant Editor CompuServe......... Albert Dayes AEO.1 ::
:: Assistant Editor Delphi........ Andreas Barbiero AEO.2 ::
:: Atari Asylum ................... Gregg Anderson AEO.7 ::
:: Unabashed Atariophile ..... Michael R. Burkley AEO.4 ::
:: ::
:: Contributors ::
:: """""""""""" ::
:: Peter Donoso, Gordie Meyer ::
:: ::
:: Telecommunicated to you via: ::
:: """""""""""""""""""""""""""" ::
:: GEnie: AEO.MAG ::
:: CompuServe: 70007,3615 ::
:: Delphi: AEO_MAG ::
:: Fnet: AEO Conference, Node 706 ::
:: AtariNet: AEO Conference, Node 51:1/10 ::
:: ::
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
Table of Contents
* From the Editors ............................................. Lucky 13.
* Z*NET Newswire ............................. Atari accesses Time-Warner
video library.
* Atari Asylum ........... Still more Warp 9 benchmarks and compatibility
testing on the Atari Falcon030.
* Geneva RTC from CIS .................... Qs & As about Gribnif's Geneva.
* Geneva Preview .................. Pete Donoso interviews Dan Wilga, the
Gribnif programmer behind Geneva.
* AEO Calendar of Events ................ Events, happenings in the World
Atari, and elsewhere.
* The Unabashed Atariophile .......... The best in PD and Shareware files.
* Just What is Atari United!? .................. Background on the latest
Atari user group venture.
* GEnie News .......................... New files & happenings on Atari's
Official Online Resource.
* Atari's Developer CD-ROM ............. Excellent new developer resource
from Atari. Read this to see
if you qualify for one.
* Developing News ................................... Photo Shop Shipping
Seurat Update
Processor Direct Annouces Plans
Calamus Update
ATARI UNITED! Announced
* Shutdown ....................... "Feedback. Feedback. What is Feedback?"
--==--==--==--==--
||| From the Editors ....... Atari Explorer Online: The Next Generation
||| Travis Guy
/ | \ GEnie: AEO.MAG Delphi: AEO_MAG
-------------------------------------------------------------------
The weather here in Florida can be very hard on AC powered electronic
devices. Over that past decade, I have lost: my original Atari 810
disk drive, some really nice stereo equipment (turntable, tape deck,
CD player, amp, receiver), my satellite receiver, and a television.
Learning from my mistakes (#1: Running any electronic device in a
thunderstorm is a mistake itself. #2: The average "surge protector"
can't do diddly about a direct lightning strike.), I adopted the
practice of "save-shutdown-unplug" at the first rumble of thunder.
Last week, I discovered another mistake.
Mistake #3: Thunderstorms out of the reach of hearing can still play
havoc with power lines.
My TT030's internal hard drive took a hit from a power outage (due to
a T-Storm several counties away), and as a result, I was left
dataless. After attaching my old external hard drive (which held all
my important backups), I found that its partitioning (or something)
didn't jell with my TT030. All the partitioning info on the HD was
scrambled. There went my backups.
Or so I thought. After wrestling with several disk repair utilities
(and a run of luck, I guess), I was able to restore my old HD, and
reattach it to my 6 year old 1040 ST. It felt a bit awkward at first
to not have NewDesk or MultiTOS around, but soon, I got into the hang
of things again.
As a result, you are reading this edition of AEO several days late.
It's rushed, but I hope that the wait has been worth it, for there is
some intertesting information inside.
However, none of this can hold a candle to the chaos resulting from
the flooding in the American Midwest. If you can afford to, please
make a donation (in money, time or material goods) to any of the
disaster relief agencies helping out. Floods don't carry the dramatic
sense of urgency that surround earthquakes and hurricanes, but as we
now know all too well, they can be just as devastating.
Welcome to your window on The World Atari. Spelling mistakes and
grammer errors at no extra charge.
--==--==--==--==--
||| Z*NET Newswire
||| Compiled and Edited by Ron Kovacs
/ | \ GEnie: Z-NET CIS: 75300,1642 Delphi: ZNET
-----------------------------------------------------------------
###################
#####(((((((((( ###
############(( ####
#########(( #######
######(( ########## This column contains the latest Atari News
#####(((((((((( ### with an update of the Computing Industry.
###################
//// TIME-WARNER LIBRARY AVAILABLE TO ATARI - Atari has announced
=========================================== that a library of video
clips owned and licensed by Time Warner is being made available to
Atari or their third-party licensed publishers set to develop titles
for the new multimedia Atari Jaguar. The long-anticipated Atari
Jaguar, to be introduced in the New York market later this fall, is a
64-bit interactive multimedia entertainment system with
high-performance, true color and CD-quality sound. The Jaguar's
high-level technology includes a 32-bit expansion port allowing for
future connection into cable and telephone networks, as well as
digital signal processing for modem use and connection to digital
audio peripherals. The video output is far superior to video games
available today and will allow for more realistic simulations of
moving vehicles such as spaceships, cars, planes and figures.
//// KODAK OFFERS $50 IN FREE PHOTO CD TRANSFERS - At the February
================================================ Photo Marketing
Association trade show, Eastman Kodak introduced a coupon book
promotion that gives picture-takers $50 in free Photo CD transfers.
The coupon book will be available at no extra charge to consumers who
purchase Kodak Photo CD players from participating retailers between
March 15, 1993, and September 30, 1993. Each coupon book contains one
$20 and three $10 coupons that can be used toward single or multiple
transfer orders when the coupons are presented to participating
photofinishers that offer Photo CD transfer services. The coupons can
be redeemed between March 15, 1993, and September 30, 1994. To receive
a Photo CD coupon book, consumers simply fill out a form, available at
local Kodak Photo CD retailers and photofinishers, and mail it with
their Photo CD player proof-of-purchase. Participating retailers and
photofinishers will have countertop displays with the forms and
complete promotion details. Consumers can call the Kodak Customer
Assistance Center at 800-242-2424, extension 36, for the location of
the nearest retailers that stock Photo CD players, or photofinishers
that offer Photo CD transfer services.
//// NEW STANDARDS ANNOUNCED BY SONY - Sony announced the development
==================================== of standards for MD DATA, a new
compact data storage medium offering high data storage capacity for
personal computer applications. The MD DATA standard has been
developed to meet the computer industry's growing need for storage
media capable of handling large amounts of data. The standard is based
on specifications recently established for the MiniDisc personal audio
system, which Sony introduced in Nov. 1992. Sony will offer the new MD
DATA standard to computer and other manufacturers to generate industry
support. Once MD DATA system software is installed onto the computer,
information written onto MD DATA discs can be retrieved and modified
regardless of differences in the CPU and/or OS of the computers being
used. For more information contact Sony at (201) 930-6443.
//// JPEG STANDARD ACCEPTED - Twenty leading multimedia software and
=========================== hardware vendors have agreed to
standardize on a common Joint Photographic Expert Group (JPEG) file
format for bit-mapped images and compressed video data under the
Microsoft Windows operating system. JPEG still-image files will be
supported under Microsoft Windows as device independent bitmaps (DIB)
files, and JPEG video files will be supported under Video for Windows
as audio/video interleaved (AVI) files. Vendors who have agreed to
endorse the standard JPEG format include AMDRIX Software; C-Cube
Microsystems; Cirrus Logic; Creative Labs; Dolch Computer Systems;
Fluent Inc.; Intel; LSI Logic; Microsoft; Motorola; New Media
Graphics; Optibase; SuperMac; Telephoto; Texas Instruments;
Truevision; U-Lead Systems; Videologic; Xing Technology Inc.; and
Zoran. The JPEG file format can be obtained by calling Microsoft
PhoneFAX server at (206) 635-2222 or on the CompuServe WINEXT forum.
//// ORGANIZATION FORMED FOR SOFTWARE INDUSTRY - The Software Industry
============================================== Coalition, has been
created to provide a strong voice for the software industry. Coalition
members include corporations, non-profit and educational groups and
individual members. Although it intends to work closely with other
organizations that include software companies in their membership, it
will focus on issues not being adequately addressed by groups too
diverse to develop a consensus on software issues. It intends to focus
on specific projects, ensuring efficient use of members' dues rather
than retain a large staff and administrative overhead. The Software
Industry Coalition is a national organization, formed to provide a
regulatory platform, educational impact and eventual database
resources specific to the needs of the software industry. The
coalition is located at 2369 Gianera Street, Santa Clara, CA 95054.
(408) 980-8294.
//// RAIDS SEIZES $9 MILLION - U.S. marshals and Microsoft
============================ investigators have seized over $9
million worth of counterfeit software over the past four months in a
nationwide sweep. Several defendants named in three separate federal
lawsuits filed in conjunction with the seizures were former or present
Microsoft distributors. They included Unitron Computer of the City of
Industry, Calif., CMOS Technologies of Piscataway, NJ, and Micro
Innovation of Houston.
//// NEW ATT COMMUNICATOR AVAILABLE - The AT&T EO 440 Personal
=================================== Communicator is available now in
52 select AT&T Phone Centers across the country. AT&T and EO are
making the device available through Phone Centers as part of an
agreement announced earlier this month. The agreement will allow EO to
use the AT&T brand on its personal communicators; give EO access to
AT&T's communications technology and services, and to its sales
channels; and make AT&T the majority stockholder in the Silicon Valley
company. Customers can call 800-222-3111 to get the location of the
nearest Phone Center carrying the product. The company expects to
introduce the 440 into its over 300 other Phone Centers gradually
throughout the rest of the year. Prices for the EO 440 start at
$1,999. Standard features in all versions include a high-speed serial
port and cable, allowing exchange of data with any IBM-compatible
personal computer; a parallel port for connection to a printer or an
optional 1.44 MB floppy drive; a communications port for optional
cellular or wireless modules; and a PCMCIA slot for future expansion.
Additional information is available from EO's toll-free number:
800-458-0880.
//// USERS GROUP FOR COLOR CENTRAL - An international Color Central
================================== users group is in the process of
being formed. The objective of the group is to share information among
members on configuring and optimizing their OPI system/network, as
well as lobby Compumation for product improvements and enhancements.
Primary communications within the group will be conducted via
electronic mail, preferably on CompuServe. To stay tuned with current
happenings, monitor Section 10 in the DTPVENDOR Forum - Vendor User
Groups. A membership roster containing e-mail addresses will be sent
to members periodically. Dues are $25.00 per year, in U.S. funds, made
payable to: Color Central Users Group. To apply for membership, please
forward your dues and the following information: Company Name:,
Individual Name:, Mailing address:, City:, State:, Zip Code:,
Country:, Voice Phone:, Fax Phone:, Compuserve Address:, Applelink
Address:, Nature of Business: Color Central Version in live
production:, Computer model used as server:, Total on-line storage
dedicated to server:, Number of Workstations accessing the server:,
And, one thing about Color Central that you want to know more about,
or see improved, or see fixed or see added to your system. Send to:
Color Central Users Group, Attn: Rick Pietrykowski, Four Lakes
Colographics, 4230 Argosy Ct., Madison, WI 53714. CIS: 70703,1555,
Applelink: FourLakes.
//// BITSTREAM UPDATE - Bitstream will no longer be supporting
===================== Fontware (any version), FaceLift 1.0 for
WordPerfect, or FaceLift 1.x for Windows. We released FaceLift 2.0 for
Windows in April of 1992 which replaced versions 1.0 and 1.2. If you
would like information on FaceLift 2.0 for Windows please call
Bitstream Sales at one of the numbers listed below. We released a new
version of FaceLift for WordPerfect in March of 1993 which replaced
older versions. If you would like information on FaceLift 2.0 for
WordPerfect please call Sales at one of the numbers listed below.
Refer to the Fontware User Guide for assistance on making fonts. If
you are having trouble using the fonts in your application, please
contact your application vendor for assistance. For upgrade
information and information on other Bitstream products please contact
Bitstream Sales at one of these numbers : End User Sales (within US)
800-522-3668, Dealer Sales/Canadian End User 800-223-3176, Outside US
and Canada 617- 497-6222 x801.
//// SPEECH COMPRESSION UNDER DEVELOPMENT - DSP Group announced this
========================================= week that it is working
with Microsoft and Compaq Computer to develop speech compression
technology that will run on Microsoft Windows operating system-based
computers. This joint development effort, using DSP Group's Truespeech
software technology, will make PC applications with voice easier to
use. With the addition of a low cost, efficient voice compression
standard, a variety of applications in the business environment will
be enhanced. These include voice annotated business documents, voice
annotated electronic mail, voice supported presentations, voice
annotated databases, and a variety of other documents which use the
full complement of multimedia tools including both video and audio.
//// SOFTBANK - CDROM MARKETING ANNOUNCED - Four leaders in software
========================================= technology distributing
and direct marketing have announced the creation of a new company
Softbank - and a new software marketing and sales program called
"Softbank On-Hand" that exploits the low cost and high capacity of
CD-ROM technology. The company will begin shipping its first Softbank
On-Hand Software Library CD-ROM disc set bundled with computers and
multimedia upgrade products this fall. The On-Hand Library will
include interactive product advertisements, demos, and hundreds of
actual, purchasable software titles organized in an entertaining and
easy-to-use interactive multimedia interface. The Softbank On-Hand
Software Library will initially run under Windows 3.1 on 386 or 486
computers with multimedia-compatible CD-ROM drives and sound
capabilities.
//// FLEXTRONICS ANNOUNCES NEW INVESTORS - Flextronics, a privately
======================================== held electronics contract
manufacturer, has announced an equity investment by a consortium of
new investors and an existing investor. The equity investment provides
the company with an additional $4 million of working capital. The
investment consortium, CLG Partners, is composed of: Sequoia Capital;
Kleiner, Perkins, Caufield & Byers; Chemicals and Materials Enterprise
Associates; Point Venture Partners; and several individuals. Sequoia
Capital is a $500 million series of venture capital partnerships.
Since being formed in 1973, Sequoia has invested in more than 250
young companies. Among the companies Sequoia has helped start and
finance are: Apple Cypress Semiconductor, Cisco Systems, LSI Logic,
Convex, Oracle, 3COM, Atari, Tandem, Electronic Arts, Altos, Acuson
and Chemtrak.
//// APPLE POSTS $188 MILLION LOSS - Apple reported financial results
================================== for its third fiscal quarter
which ended June 25,1993. Net revenues for the third quarter of 1993
were $1.862 billion, a 7 percent increase over the third quarter of
the prior year. Apple also announced that it has taken a charge of
$320.9 million, or $198.9 million after tax, for the previously
announced restructuring and other cost reduction activities that are
now underway at the company. As a result of these charges, the company
reported a net loss for the quarter of $188.3 million or $1.63 per
share. Shipment of Apple's first product based on Newton technology--a
handheld communication assistant--is on track for later this summer.
And, in addition to the Apple Workgroup Server 95 that shipped last
month, two new server products, the Apple Workgroup Server 60 and
Apple Workgroup Server 80 will ship in volume, starting this month.
--==--==--==--==--
||| Atari Asylum
||| By: Gregg Anderson
/ | \ GEnie: AEO.7
----------------------------------------------------------------
Oh oh, they're baaack.... Once again the gates of the Atari Asylum are
forced open and a flood of new inmates swarm inward. Seeking comfort,
support, information, and maybe just a place to kick back and relax a
little, they quickly fill the building. In any event, no matter what
the cause, welcome to yet another endless episode of: Atari Asylum.
This issue will look a bit familiar to many of you as I've re-run some
of the tests I posted in the last issue. Why? Because of something I
discovered just as I was finishing the tests for the previous issue.
What I found was that SpeedoGDOS imposes a small overhead on the
system that results in a slight slowdown of the Falcon's performance
when it's loaded. Of course the benefit of this microscopic slowdown
is the ability to use the new scaleable fonts on not just the newer
Speedo-aware software but most older GDOS programs as well. Though the
slowdown is measurable, it's not in the same class as the original
GDOS where the effect was not only noticeable - it was obvious. The
same is true of Warp 9 by the way, it also causes a small reduction of
some CPU/RAM performance numbers while boosting most graphics
operations. You win a little, you lose a little, such is life in the
Asylum. However, in the case of Speedo and Warp 9 you gain a LOT more
than what you lose.
In ALL BUT THE ATARIWORKS TEST the system is booted without the hard
disk with a clean (no ACC/CPX/AUTO programs) floppy in drive A. For
the Warp 9 tests, the floppy has Warp 9 & ACC on it. All test programs
are then loaded from drive A (and a LOT of disk swapping then ensued).
The system tested was a Falcon030 4/80 with TOS 4.02 installed.
Anyway, on with the tests:
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Real World Programs
(All times in Seconds)
(100% faster = twice as
fast or half the time)
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
|---------------------FALCON----------------------|
Video Mode: 256 16 4 2 STHi
Warp 9: off/on off/on off/on off/on off/on
|-------------------------------------------------|
1stWord Plus (No Speedo)
12 Page Scroll: 150/132 88/67 66/38 56/29 48/28
% faster over base 14% 31% 74% 93% 71%
First Word Plus: What can I say? With Warp 9, the fool thing
absolutely flies in the two color mode! Though not quite the perfect
100% performance gains we used to see with the last ST/TT Warper, the
Falcon's version is no slouch at improving text performance.
However, it's fairly obvious that even with Warp 9 active the 256
color mode is a touch slow for fast text work (not useless mind you,
but close enough). The biggest problem remains the rather obvious
"color shift" when scrolling text quickly. That problem doesn't change
until you get down to the four or two color modes.
|---------------------FALCON----------------------|
Video Mode: 256 16 4 2 STHi
Warp 9: off/on off/on off/on off/on off/on
|-------------------------------------------------|
AtariWorks (WP Mode)
12 Page Scroll: 259/225 178/143 150/110 137/ 99 135/ 97
% faster than base 15% 24% 36% 38% 39%
12 Page Jump: 38.9/38 29.5/28.2 25.8/24 24.5/23 26/24
% faster than base 2% 4.6% 7.5% 6.5% 8.3%
AtariWorks WP: This program definitely gains from Warp 9, though not
as much as a straight "text" program like First Word Plus will. It
also requires SpeedoGDOS to operate correctly, though it can run in a
limited fashion using the built-in system font. I also understand
from the AtariWorks Topic on GEnie that AW will work with the original
GDOS, though why anyone would want to is beyond me <grin>. Hmmm, I
wonder if it's also G-Plus compatible?
Anyway, because of this GDOS requirement I was forced to run the AW
tests with SpeedoGDOS active. Remember how last issue I said that with
Warp 9 "its 111 second, 15 page scroll, is over 30% faster than the
167 second time of the base bird"? Well, that's still true (in
two-color mode anyway) but that was based on the initial version of
AtariWorks. Last week Atari released an update, version 1.2, and it
may actually be slightly faster; at least that's what this test
claims. Good work Pradip & Company, keep 'em coming. Still No firm
word on when the compatibility problem between Warp 9 and SpeedoGDOS
will be resolved, or just when the Falcon version will be released or
what it will cost. Sorry 'bout that, maybe we'll have better news by
the next visit.
The upshot of all this is; though AtariWorks runs in just about all
80- column modes and in any combination of colors, I STRONGLY
recommend you limit yourself to the two or four color mode when
working with it. Just a suggestion.
TouchUp 1.84: I re-ran the tests on a totally clean Falcon and on a
clean Falcon with Warp 9. The upshot was that there were no
significant gains or losses in graphics speed with Warp 9 installed.
The original test indicated a small loss in performance with Warp 9
installed. I have to assume that loss was cause by the joint presence
of Warp 9 and SpeedoGDOS. That or very tiny gremlins since there's not
enough room in that case for the larger variety.
~~
Ok, so now it's time to move on to:
---BENCHMARKS---
ALL TESTS ARE ON A CLEAN SYSTEM WITH WARP 9 ACTIVE
(NO AUTOBOOTs, ACCs, or CPXs)
QuickIndex 2.2
(% of performance as compared to a TOS 1.4 8Mhz ST system)
|-------------------------FALCON-------------------------|
Video Mode: 256 16 4 2 STHi
Warp 9: off/on off/on off/on off/on off/on
|--------------------------------------------------------|
CPU/RAM
Memory 369/ 362% 415/ 411% 467/ 463% 478/ 473% 480/ 476%
Register 406/ 402% 410/ 402% 410/ 406% 410/ 406% 410/ 406%
Divide 507/ 502% 510/ 502% 510/ 504% 510/ 504% 510/ 504%
Shifts 1737/1708% 1737/1737% 1737/1737% 1737/1737% 1737/1737%
TOS/GEM
Text 49/ 71% 91/217% 129/289% 160/ 664% 160/ 651%
String 65/ 84% 109/179% 145/204% 167/ 274% 268/ 276%
Scroll 16/ 16% 40/ 40% 89/ 89% 181/ 182% 215/ 216%
Dialog 121/235% 162/411% 185/766% 199/1033% 200/1044%
CPU/RAM: The Falcon's ability to access RAM is very dependent on the
number of bit planes being displayed. While internal CPU operations
like Register, Divide, & Shift are little affected by the display
mode, Memory, Register, & Divide do show a small overhead from Warp
9's presence and would show an even greater loss of speed with both
Warp 9 and SpeedoGDOS (or a major loss with the original GDOS) loaded.
TOS/GEM: As with all previous versions of TOS and screen accelerators;
the text string and scroll functions tend to resist being improved
(though the Falcon version seems to suffer from this more than the
older ST/TT versions). Text and Dialog, however, are greatly improved
over their non-warped counterparts.
NBM
(Note: NBM has a history of not being overly QuickST/Warp 9 friendly)
|--------------------FALCON--------------------|
Video Mode: 256 16 4 2 STHi
Warp 9: off/on off/on off/on off/on off/on
|----------------------------------------------|
Math 182/177% 224/221% 224/240% 254/249% 256/251%
Memory 172/170% 222/220% 246/244% 259/256% 261/259%
DialogBox 137/ 95% 225/185% 291/486% 335/587% 337/591%
Graphics 62/ 68% 89/122% 106/192% 118/257% 144/312%
As with the Quick Index test, the effect of Warp 9's overhead is
visible in the Math and Memory tests. I'm puzzled about the Dialog
Box seeming to actually be slower in 256 and 16 color modes. On the
whole I feel that the system enjoys a much greater benefit from Warp 9
than NBM indicates.
~~
BMVGTEFF
An old text benchmark, it draws five text styles to the screen and
lists the time required in 200/second numbers. The smaller then
number the better. (This one is very QuickST/Warp 9 friendly)
|--------------------FALCON--------------------|
Video Mode: 256 16 4 2 STHi
Warp 9: off/on off/on off/on off/on off/on
|----------------------------------------------|
Normal 306/115 200/ 78 160/ 62 141/ 14 141/ 14
Bold 473/121 350/ 84 305/ 67 284/ 23 283/ 23
Grey 340/121 229/ 83 187/ 66 169/ 23 268/ 23
Italic 734/128 511/ 90 413/ 73 363/ 29 362/ 29
Underline 330/115 221/ 79 179/ 62 160/ 19 259/ 29
Ok, this is without question the oldest test I've got that will run
on the Falcon, indicating that it was written very much "by the book."
Here, in writing and shifting to the right a line of text (modified
and unmodified), you can see how much Warp 9 improves basic text
displays.
~~
GEMBENCH II
<Another program with a less than QuickST/Warp 9-friendly reputation>
(All gains are measured against an 8Mhz ST system)
|-----------------------FALCON------------------------|
Video Mode: 256 16 4 2 STHi
Warp 9: off/on off/on off/on off/on off/on
|-----------------------------------------------------|
Dialog box 111/158% 161/306% 196/ 825% 216/1148% 217/1165%
Text 178/464% 264/666% 323/ 833% 361/3544% 363/3544%
Text Effects 183/710% 253/981% 299/1174% 329/2730% 330/2791%
Small Text 154/640% 200/903% 225/1584% 241/1752% 342/1765%
VDI Graphics 156/154% 222/218% 262/ 261% 285/ 283% 285/ 284%
Windows 99/ 79% 152/133% 182/ 333% 222/ 333% 222/ 396%
Division 418/412% 454/451% 458/ 454% 469/ 465% 469/ 465%
Flt Point 179/171% 217/210% 236/ 230% 245/ 240% 247/ 241%
RAM Access 269/266% 328/323% 364/ 358% 374/ 371% 378/ 371%
ROM Access 348/331% 398/394% 429/ 419% 345/ 298% 382/ 375%
Blitting ---/--- ---/--- 621/ 596% 1028/ 964% 1032/ 972%
VDI Scroll 120/116% 277/272% 519/ 537% 819/1283% 826/1295%
VDI Inquire 123/124% 141/148% 153/ 160% 158/ 166% 157/ 165%
Graphics 140/305% 208/453% 308/ 700% 406/1355% 408/1375%
Math/Memory 303/295% 349/344% 368/ 365% 358/ 343% 369/ 363%
Average 194/302% 255/417% 327/ 597% 391/1044% 396/1063%
Whew... that was a lot of typing <grin>. Anyway, in almost all
display related functions you can see that Warp 9 offers anywhere from
double to over three times a standard Falcon. In fact many basic text
functions gain by a factor of 10, from 363% to 3544% - now that's
impressive. The only areas that do not enjoy a major gain are VDI
Scroll, VDI Inquire, and VDI Graphics (already noted as being
difficult to improve).
By the way, if I ever get the chance I'll try and check out NVDI.
This is Warp 9's primary competitor in Europe and differs from it in a
number of ways. Though many European benchmark programs indicate that
NVDI is faster, most American benchmarks show the opposite. As with
most tests I suggest you not decide which is best until after seeing
how each program performs with REAL WORLD software. Personally, my
money's on the CodeHeads <smile>.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
//// Comments & WarpUp
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
While the Falcon's 256 and 16-color modes remain more than a touch
slow for a high-speed typist you find dropping down to the four or two
color mode makes all the difference in the world. In all cases, and
especially for AtariWorks, I strongly recommend restricting your
productivity work to the four or two color modes whenever possible.
Just as important, I urge you invest in Warp 9 as soon as it's
available. Why? Because unless you're seriously into lost time, or are
practicing the Zen of slow scrolling, the feathered Warp 9 will more
than pay for itself in saved time and mouse button replacements.
By the way, additional kudos are due Pradip and the gang at AtariDev.
The new version (1.2) of AtariWorks has reduced that annoying color
shift in multi-color modes as well as making the program feel slightly
quicker. For those of you who like AtariWorks as much as I do, plan on
buying Warp 9 as soon as possible. Without it AW can be rather slow
when scrolling large documents - with Warp 9 it's still slower than
WordPlus of course but it's a LOT easier on the old patience glands.
By the way, in case you think I'm being hard on AW's scrolling speed
here, I'm not. In fact there's no way on God's Green Earth that
AtariWorks (or any multi-font/graphics based program) will every
outspeed a standard, text-based, word processor. It just can't happen,
though I wouldn't be surprised to see AW cut the difference by quite a
bit over the next few years as Pradip and Co. keep working on
improving it.
In short; without Warp 9 a two-color Falcon feels about as fast as a
Warped ST. With Warp 9 it's a totally different computer, especially
in monochrome. Text scrolls faster, dialog boxes snap open and shut,
and directories almost fly past your eyes. In short, just about
everything is faster; and in the four and two color modes, MUCH
faster.
So is Warp 9 a must have for Falcon owners? In my opinion, yes. While
the current version still has a few holes in it, as does the present
version of Falcon TOS, both are important steps forward and both will
benefit from future growth and development in the days to come. When
you get the chance, go for it!
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
//// AEO Falcon030 Compatibility List
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Hopefully, this particular room in the Asylum will be a regular
feature in the months to come. However, I need your help to keep it
going. PLEASE post your compatibility results on GEnie or Email them
to me. I'll gladly post your results and provide full "faith and
credit" to the poster. I even promise not to edit the postings (except
to compress them slightly for readability, avoid duplication, and to
keep your download times down to a reasonable limit <grin>.
Anyway, here's this issue's compatibility list headed by a submission
from our newest inmate; Brian Freeman. Thanks Brian, this is exactly
what we're looking for!
Falcon 030 compatibility test: by Brian Freeman
All programs were tested on a SVGA monitor in ST compatible modes
or auto booted if copy protected.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Prgs that work on the Falcon.
Lattice C 5.52 all modes
Hisoft C st modes only
ORCS all modes
Arcshell all but truecolor
Spirit edit 1.3 all modes
Printmaster Plus st med
Music Studio autoload
Word Perfect st med, st high
Phasar 4.0 st med
Tiny Term all modes
CD-Player st low, st med
Lzh201le.ttp all modes
Spoflt26
Cold Hard Cache 4.0
F.M. Terminal all modes
AnsiTerm 1.0 st med
Elite autoload
Midimaze st low
Stellar Crusade st low
Foundation Waste autoload
Goldrunner autoload
Space Quest I autoload
Paladin st low
Alternate Reality City autoload
Starnukers st med
Hillsfar st low
Sim City st low
Dungeon Master autoload
Chaos Strikes Back autoload
Legend of Faerghail st low
Colonial Conquest st low
Empire st med, st high
Curse Azure Bonds st low
1943 autoload
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Prgs that don't.
Little Green Selector 2 bombs at boot up
FZDT 2.20 redraw problems
PC Ditto 3.0 won't work on european machine??
Dterm 1.0 redraw problems
VanTerm 3.8 dial problems, bombs
Wind Term text outside of window
St Zip 2.0 redraw problems
Lemmings won't boot
Spellbound won't boot
Bloodwych won't boot
Bloodwych data won't boot
Space Ace dies at title screen
Captive dies after title screen
Shadowgate dies at title screen
Sundog lots of bombs!!
Falcon missions 1-3 dies on runway
Defender of the Crown disk loading problems
Blastaball dies at title screen
------------------------------------------------------------
Will work with backward compatibility program: (BCKWV143.LZH)
Arkanoid II
Disciples of Steel
Xybots
Nitro
Knightmare
Camels
Starflight
Pac-Mania
Oids
Imperium
Xenon
Ninja Mission
Chaos
Populous II (if screen blacks out disable screen saver!)
Barbarian
Hole in One Miniture Golf
Midimaze II
Carrier Command
Guantlet II
~~
The following posts are adapted from GEnie's "Falcon Compatibility
Topic" in CAT 14. I want to extend my thanks and appreciation to the
folks that have freely posted their discoveries on GEnie to share them
with everyone. Thanks again guys, you're doing great!
-------------
C.OINES1 [Chazz]
Well... Opus 2.2 crashes out, and takes almost all the RAM with it.
Guess I'll be keeping my STe for a while yet ;)
Sudden View works from ST High and ST Medium without glitches.
Cybersculpt works from ST High without problems, and works from ST
Medium until you try to display the object's palette, which bombs
it out. It also works from 640x400x16 mode, so long as you don't
use 3D Preview (bombs on returning) or the palette.
Crack Art _almost_ works, which pleases me greatly; I use Crack
Art to generate image maps for Phoenix (save as PI1 and use a PI1
to GIF converter, or load them into Spectrum 512 and save out as
a *.SPC). Most of it works great (even the floppy light trick),
but it bombed out when I clicked on the Rotate Block function.
So as long as you don't do that, it works fine from ST Low mode,
and the speed increase from the STe is noticeable and wonderful.
Pick up the whole screen as a block and move it around without
the slightest flicker! It'll probably crash if you load a spectrum
and try to select an area for it to pick the color map from.
RayOid runs with no sound and perfect smoothness, but freezes the
desktop when you quit out.
I haven't played with any of the above under MultiTOS, since 4 megs
is already cramped enough for my needs... maybe when I've got a
14-meg card, but not before.
------------
P.LOUIE1
I tried Band-in-a-Box on my dealer's Falcon and it seems to work
in 2 color 80 column mode. I don't know if the MIDI part works since
I didn't bring my synth to test it out, but the screen didn't mess up
like in 256 color mode.
------------
D.COOKE [Rob]
Well I tried Lure of the Temptress on my Falcon and couldn't get
it to boot all the way.It paused about halfway through the boot process.
Anyone know if the program Backword will cure this?
------------
FAIRWEATHER [David]
Louie! Thanks a million for the tip on Band in a Box! Funny how it
locks up in ST High compatibility mode, but works fine in 2 color
80 column mode.
------------
AEO.7 [Gregg]
I tried 'Reach for the Skys' on a Falcon today. No go, I'm afraid.
It gets well into the introduction but then enters an endless 'loop'
accessing drive A long before asking to swap disks to whatever.
Too bad, I was hoping it would be a worthy competitor to Battle of
Britain. Note: this is without use of any 'compatibility' programs.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
//// Important Notice to All Computer Owners
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Not quite a month ago, a small factory in Japan burned to the ground
and left virtually nothing standing. At that time there were no
clues as to the cause and the media left it as a "just in passing"
note on the evening news. They did mention one interesting thing about
this plant though, they commented that it was the source for 50% of
the special Epoxy used in the manufacture of Integrated Circuits and
that it could take six months to a year to resume production. That was
all, nothing special to worry about.
WRONG!!!!!!!!!! We're now seeing the results as RAM and SIMM prices
have begun to skyrocket! We priced a set of four Meg SIMMS yesterday
and the price had almost doubled! So much for that RAM upgrade this
month.
A word to the wise... get your RAM and/or order your new computer as
soon as possible as. Why? Because I suspect that before too much
longer there's going to be a price increase on anything that uses ICs
- from computers to telephones and everything in between. Don't feel
picked on though, this price boost will be industry wide and everyone
is going to get to take part in it.
So, if we see the Falcon and TT get bumped up a bit in price over the
next few weeks we'll at least know there's a reason. The only real
consolation is that this time the chip shortage looks to be real.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
//// Next issue
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
The next issue of Atari Asylum will be somewhat smaller than I
normally prefer. I've a number of obligations to fulfill over the next
few weeks that will take most of my time, free or otherwise. Hopefully
I'll be soon be back to show you some new rooms here in the Asylum,
rooms no one's seen yet <grin>.
I do plan on looking into the specifications of a large number of
Computer Monitors and posting what "should" and "should not" work
with our older ST systems as well as make a few suggestions for units
suitable for a "killer" Falcon/FalconNG display. If I'm real lucky, we
may have a shot at running some tests on COMPO's new ScreenBlaster
video expander. Why do I call it a video expander? Wait for the review
and find out <nasty grin>. Hmm, speaking of which, anyone got a large
screen multi-sync I can borrow for a while?
So until then, try not to annoy the night nurse too much. After all,
she's the one that picks the needle size the Doc's going to use in the
morning for your AM medication <ouch!>. See you later.
PS: As usual all MegaSTe, TT, and Falcon tests are performed at
Asheville's Computer STudio - thanks again Sheldon.
--==--==--==--==--
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
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-- --
-- To sign up for CompuServe service, call (voice call) (800) 848-8199. --
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--==--==--==--==--
||| GRIBNIF CONFERENCE ON COMPUSERVE
||| Edited by: Ron Kovacs
/ | \ Courtesy: The CompuServe Atari Forums
-----------------------------------------------------------------
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) Maybe with just four of us here, we don't have to
worry about formal protocol, if it gets more crowded, we can move into
it then... OK with everybody?
Celeste and Rob, this is Rick Flashman of Gribnif software, as you
know who's going to talk a bit about GENEVA and answer any questions
we may have. Rick, would you like to make an opening introductory-type
little speech? <g>
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Geneva is our newest program for the Atari. It is
a Multitasking Application Environment. For those more familiar with
the Atarioperating system, Geneve is a complete replacement of the
"AES". Geneva works on all Atari computers and only requires less than
120k of memory. We are considering an optional cartridge port version,
that will require 0k. I can add lots, of I'd be mostly repeating the
press release. Why don't we let it go from here, and see how the
conversation takes us.
(3-3,celeste moran) multitasking do you resolutions
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Celeste, do you mean if you can have different
resolutions at once?
(3-3,celeste moran) yes, I don't have falcon yet
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) It works in all resolutions. However, it cannot
display different resolutions at the same time. Not even Windows can
do that, that's a hardware limitation.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) Does it work with MIDI applications?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) It theory yes. However, since so many MIDI
programs don't work with anything (buggy code) we are not sure how it
works with all MIDI programs out there. We are releasing a major beta
release today that will help answer that. Never underestimate the
ability of a MIDI programmer to create software that refuses to work
with other programs (grin).
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) Will GENEVA work on all ST-or-later machines and
all TOS versions?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Yes. I personally run Geneva on a TOS 1.4 Stacy
4. We have tested it on a 512K machine with TOS 1.0.
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) How does it fit in with MultiTOS? Would it slow
down an 8 mhz ST?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Brad - That's a complex question, let me answer
Rob first.
Rob - The speed loss in Geneva is minimal. I have some speed tests I
uploaded to the Gribnif section in Atari Vendors. Basically, you lose
about 2% overhead. The speed slowdown for multiple programs is
dependent on that program. But it is VERY similar to the speed
slowdown you get when running desk accessories. (If you haven't
noticed, each additional desk accessory steals between 2-5% of your
machine's speed).
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) I didn't know that, so if you're running six of
them, your machine is 30% slwer?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Not really...because most accessories have a very
small event loop. Sometimes, though, one accessory can slow you down
lots more than others.
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) So about MultiTOS...is it similar to GENEVA, or
does one run GENEVA within MultiTOS?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) What we know as "MultiTOS" is actually several
products in one. First you have the new AES 4.0, which is what gives
you the 3D buttons, secondary drop-down menus, enhanced alerts, etc.
AES 4.0 is also included in the Falcon, without the rest of MultiTOS.
However, AES 4.0 does not offer any multitasking, unlimited
accessories, etc. MultiTOS also includes MiNT. An enhancement to TOS
that allows for true multitasking. Put them both together, and you
have what is known as MultiTOS. A new version of the AES capable
(thanks to MiNT) of multitasking GEM and TOS applications.
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) So AES is like a new desktop?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) No, the "desktop" is technically a separate part
of the OS.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) I thought GEM was the desktop?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) No, let me rewind a little. TOS = The underlying
portion (like MS-DOS on a PC) that runs basic programs. AES = Portion
of GEM that handles running GEM programs, desk accessories, menus,
drop- downs, buttons, alerts, etc. VDI = Portion of GEM that handles
drawing to the screen, etc. Desktop = A separate GEM application that
allows for file management and program lauching. Geneva replaces the
AES.
It is fully AES 4.0 compatible, so it has all the new features. Plus,
it lets you run any programs that "requires" AES 4.0 on any machine.
Also, unlike the Atari AES, Geneva can multitask unlimited GEM
applications and load/unload unlimited desk accessories.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) What about non-GEM prgs - TTPs, etc?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Since we do not replace TOS, those are
technically unnafacted. HOWEVER...
We add several enhancements: Our TOS programs run in a GEM window,
when our TOS programs stop at a prompt waiting for user input your
regain control of your system (poor man's multitasking), and...if you
add the freeware or commercial version of MiNT, you *can* Multitask
TOS (TOS, TTP) programs.
If you already own a MultiTOS, there are several reasons why you would
still prefer Geneva: 1. You can replace Atari's AES with ours, adding
many new features. 2. Ours is faster. 3. Ours lets you use standard
screen accellerators. (Warp 9, NVDI, etc) 4. You can remove MiNT, and
multitask GEM applications with minimal speed loss.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) I had wondered about desk accs...they are a crude
multitasking on the ST, but with your program, would DA's even be
needed?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) You have unlimited desk accessories (load and
unload on the fly). They are needed, because there are so many out
there. But technically, no. Geneva always makes very little difference
between them. You can double-click on either to run them. <grin>
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) The press release talks about multi- and single-
tasking programs. I'm not sure what the difference is.
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Single tasking simply means that other programs
are temporarily suspended (windows closed) until that singletasking
program you are running either quits or it itself is suspended.
This is needed for programs that are not multitasking compatible, such
as the old Flash or the old Degas.
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) I have Flash 1.6... where does that stand?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Flash 1.x = old flash. You actually don't notice
that much. Visually it is not that different if a background programs
is running or sleeping. Unless you are running a compiler or rendering
program in the background.
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) so that means, for example that I can't be using
Flash online, and jump to a word-processor during an online session?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Right. You can still switch, but you might lose
information coming over the modem.
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) The press release says that the ROM desktop is not
compatible...
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Right. The ROM desktop isn't even MultiTOS
compatible. (MultiTOS ships with its own disk loaded copy of a
desktop.)
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) Can you use GENEVA f you don't have any alternative
desktops?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) You can, you just can't copy files, etc. without
one. Though I've seen some good PD accessories that handle file
management pretty good. Actually, one of our beta testers said the
shareware Terradesk works fine. Though I prefer NeoDesk...<grin>...
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) I have a lot of prgs in my auto folder, including
ones that take up a lot of memory. Does GENEVA not effect those and
only applications that have been loaded, up and running?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) I still use all the same AUTO folder programs as
before. Any specific ones you are worried about?
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) Shadow ram disk, foldr150, cache, print buffer,
Warp 9, Hotwire, etc.
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Those should all work fine, as far as I know. By
not replacing TOS, those type of programs are not really affected.
Hotwire is a special case, let me explain. Hotwire probably works
great. But when run from the AUTO folder, it is designed to hook into
the built-in ROM desktop, which we don't load. So, you never see it.
But if you run Hotwire as a regular shell (as you can), it should work
fine. HOWEVER... Hotwire has yet to be upgraded to be multitasking
(MultiTOS) compatible.
That means that it can only launch things in "singletasking" mode.
We've given the Codeheads a copy of Geneva. Though the changes needed
are identical to the changes needed to make it work with MultiTOS.
(Actually, the changes for Geneva are LESS than what you need for
MultiTOS).
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) Rick, since GENEVA can be activated from the
desktop, what do you mean by you "don't load" the ROM desktop? <still
confused about desktops!> The ROM desktop only works with the ROM AES,
etc. That's the way Atari wrote it. It doesn't even work with
MultiTOS. Hardwired. The desktop is nothing but a "separate" program.
Stop thinking of it as part of the operating system, will make it
easier. Look at Windows 3.1 as an example. OK, but I though GENEVA was
launched FROM the desktop?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Sure, why not? You launch Geneva, it basically
"re-starts" your system into our brand new AES environment. When you
quit, it returns you to where you were in the old environment.
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) Is 9/1 still the release date?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Beta version shipped today, so I guess we are
looking good. (You can still order the beta version, btw.)
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) How will it be distributed... mail-order and also
retail?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) The final version will go everywhere (retail,
mail order, direct, etc.)
(3-3,Mike Mortilla) Rick, Will Geneva save the current activity (like
Revolver's Roll Out)?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Mike. The comparison doesn't apply. Revolver
partitioned the ST's memory into multiple computers. Geneva is more
like Windows, allowing multiple GEM applications to co-exist in the
same ST.
(3-3,Mike Mortilla) Then can you save a "preferences" file?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) What do you mean?
(3-3,Mike Mortilla) To run certain programs all the time w/o loading
every time?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Mike, you mean like having multiple program sets
launched at once?
(3-3,Mike Mortilla) Yes! Sequencing/Notation for 1. Word
Processing/DTP as another.
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) You can specify any number of programs to be
loaded at bootup. With NeoDesk 4, we are adding "program groups" so
you can launch multiple programs groups at once. (That's more of a
desktop feature.)
(3-3,Mike Mortilla) But you have run each program? I guess w/Neodesk 4
it'll do it.
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Actually correction. I *think* that with the
Geneva RUN command you can just select as many programs as you want,
and it will launch them all. Multitasking is GREAT. I get so spoiled.
I keep 1st Word Plus and LDW Power loaded at all times. Then load
STalker whenever I want to log into something. I think the biggest
difference between Geneva and previous attempts at multitasking is
that Geneva "works".
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) Rather an important difference <g>.
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) True, but that seemed to be the key problem with
previous attempts.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) I just got Midi Spy, which is "supposed to work"
with everything, but with all the TSR's and ACCs I use, something
conflicts.
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) That's cool. I hear it is quite the program.
Codehead stuff is pretty good, so even if there is some small quirk,
it would be easy to fix. Geneva has a lot of compatibility "Flags"
that let you customize how a program runs. Most of these will be
preset, but you can tweek things to make them work better.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) I guess any new prg I add like that, or Geneva,
would take some tweeking or adjusting. How practical on a 1040 ST with
TOS 1.4 and 4 megs RAM?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Very. That's basically the same EXACT setup I
have on my 4 meg, TOS1.4 STacy. It works great, I use it all the time.
Heck ...all our employees have 4 meg, 68000 machines. One one TT in
the main office.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) Would it affect the ram disk (the one I use is one
meg)?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Should work fine with the ramdisk. Geneva only
needs 120K (actually, current BETA version uses 114K).
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) Maybe Shadow is an old prg and hasn't been
updated.
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Not really familiar with it. But since we don't
replace TOS, I am not too worried about it. Should work. (Ramdisk
programs work at the TOS level.) If we make the cartridge version, it
will take 0K. Even save you some, as we don't load the ROM desktop.
We've been working on Geneva for two years...it's not an overnight
hack.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) Still using DeskCart cartridge for the clock!
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Heh...oh well...run the disk version...
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) Will Toad be selling it?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Sure, Toad sells lots of our stuff... (in good
numbers).
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) OK, I'll check with them.
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) There are some screen shots you can download from
the Gribnif area in Atari Vendors.
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) Are you soliciting beta-testers?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) We are. Download the file GEBETA.TXT from our
library here.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) What's the price again?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) $99.95 - Geneva & NeoDesk 4 (our recommended
package) $69.95 - Geneva by itself $50.00 - Beta price (you get the
final release free of charge)
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) Is NeoDesk 4 out yet?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) No, NeoDesk 4 is a *major* rewrite with a whole
new look. It will come out with Geneva.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) Was MultiGEM a flop?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) MultiGEM was a hack. It sort of worked, but was
too limited. Plus it had no enhancements. If Geneva didn't multitask,
it would still sell just for the 3D buttons, tear off menus, unlimited
DAs, etc. Plus the fact that you can run AES 4.0 applications on any
machine (for compatibility with newer applications).
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) Would I get the 3D buttons and those menus on an
ST, or only on a Falcon?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Rob......"there are no limitations". You can get
EVERY feature on a 512K, TOS 1.0, low-resolution (hooked up to a TV
set) ST.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) I'll look for those screen shots
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Actually...I haven't tried it...but it might even
work with disk loaded TOS. <grin> It would even work on one of those
256K STs Atari sold during the first months in Europe.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) It replaces the desktop, but isn't NeoDesk the
"desktop"?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) The "desktop" is a separate program from the
operating system. We don't do anything with it. NeoDesk is a
recommended desktop that works great with Geneva. NeoDesk 4 will have
many Geneva/Multitasking specialized features.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) Where are the 3D buttons?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Everywhere...all window gadgets, all alert boxes,
most dialog boxes... Ever see Windows 3.1? If you have, you get the
idea. They go "down" when you push them with mouse. Kinda cute. You
can turn that off, though, if you miss the older flat look. Screen
shot shows them pretty good... Plus, unlike Windows or MultiTOS, if
you have a program that "slows" down your system, you can just put it
to "sleep" when you want to keep it (loaded but don't need it running.
Get all your speed back.
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) I have a question. Do you guys like the name
Geneva? We spent 2 months on a name...had a hard time finding the
right one.
(3-4,Rob Rasmussen) I was wondering about the name...
(3-1,Brad [sysop]) I like it. What made you choose it?
(3-2,Rick @ Gribnif) Considered hundreds...probably thousands of
names. It stands for a city that brings "different" countries
together, like we bring programs together. It is in a country that no
one dislikes. And the "foreign city" name gave it an exotic
name...pointing to its uniqueness. It also wasn't a preposterous name
better than calling it "MultiMax Plus Ultra Pro II" or some other
horrible techy name. During beta we used to call it "Magic".
--==--==--==--==--
||| Geneva Preview: A Talk With Dan Wilga Of Gribnif Software
||| By: Peter Donoso
/ | \ GEnie: EXPLORER.2
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Over the years, Gribnif Software has earned a well-deserved reputation
as a major developer of solidly written, quality software products for
Atari computers. Dan Wilga, one of the founders of the company, has
been there since the beginning.
Back in 1988, Dan walked in to his local computer store in search of a
computer that would be able to meet his various requirements for both
price and capabilities. He had been a dedicated Atari 8bit user for a
number of years, and had his sights set on a 1040 ST. The fellow
behind the counter was Rick Flashman. Though neither of them realized
it at the time, that one simple sale would come to be beginning of
both an enduring friendship and fruitful business relationship.
Dan quickly fell in love with his new Atari, and longed to see certain
additional features and improvements added to the desktop. This desire
eventually led him to produce NeoDesk. Since its initial introduction,
it has unquestionably grown to become the most popular program of
choice among Atari owners who are looking for a viable alternative to
the standard GEM desktop environment. Seeing the commercial potential
for such a product, Dan and Rick joined forces and started their own
company, Gribnif Software. After the release of Ver. 2.05, Dan
decided
to add a host of powerful new features to the basic Command Line
Interpreter that was included within the NeoDesk package and released
NeoDesk CLI as a separate product.
Now Gribnif has recently announced another program to add to their
roster of quality hardware and software products. GENEVA is a
multi-tasking environment which is presently available in a beta
version directly from the company for $50 plus shipping costs.
By definition, the "beta" nametag usually means that a product has not
been deemed to be fully tested. It may often contain one or more
programming conflicts, or "bugs," as well as features which have yet
to be either finished or fully implemented within the present version.
Although Gribnif clearly states this in both the print and file
documentation that accompanies the program, they've also wisely taken
the time and effort to previously work out many of the potential
conflicts.
Having placed it with a dozen beta testers for the past three months,
the program's been run with a wide variety of the most popular as well
as some of the more obscure Atari programs out there. It's this kind
of dedication which supports the widely shared opinion that Gribnif
really cares about its customers!
I recently had the pleasure of talking to Dan about this exciting new
product over the course of an anticipated twenty-minute discussion
which ended up taking well over an hour of his time (gulp!... sorry
about that, Dan), but the resulting wealth of information should come
in handy in deciding if Geneva is for you.
The logical place to start was with a basic description of the program
itself. GENEVA is a replacement for a substantial part of the
operating system in Atari computers. It replaces the Application
Environment Services or (AES), the part of TOS and GEM that displays
and accesses menu bars, dialog boxes and windows. It does not alter
the way that files are read or written, nor does it change the
underlying way in which graphics are displayed. Dan reminisces on how
it all innocently began.
"GENEVA started out as the search for a way to break the seven
window limitation barrier. I came across a PD program from Germany
which was able to do this, but only for a rather limited number of
specific ROM versions. I wanted to make it work for every version
of TOS, so I decided to write one of my own. It turned into a much
larger project than I had originally planned on - over two years -
and I ended up re-writing the entire AES."
MultiTOS, Atari's multi-tasking operating system that comes bundled
with the Falcon, works in conjunction with MINT (a humorous
paradoxical acronym for Mint Is Now TOS), which runs as an underlying
operating system in conjunction with TOS.
A powerful feature of MultiTOS is its memory protection scheme. This
feature detects any program that illegally addresses additional memory
which has not been previously allocated for its own functions. It then
automatically terminates that program without otherwise crashing the
rest of the system. Under MultiTOS, TOS and TTP programs can also run
within their own windows as well.
In its present version, GENEVA runs without MINT, but does so without
benefit of memory protection, although the next version of GENEVA is
slated to be able to run under MINT. There are plans to also include a
program which will allow TOS and TTP programs to run within their own
windows as well. So what does GENEVA have going for it? Take it away,
Dan.
"A number of exciting things! GENEVA allows you to load as many
desk accessories as memory will permit from any specified drive or
separate folder. Most DAs work fine, including MultiDesk, Warp 9,
and Harlekin, to name just a few. You can load an unload these at
any time. All accessories can still be found listed at the
familiar Desk menu location.
"GENEVA supports up to 256 windows open at once! You can also
configure any number of programs to launch upon boot-up. Failing
to detect the presence of its own GEM.CNF file, it will look for a
DESKTOP.INF or NEWDESK.INF file. It will then read the resolution
setting, as well as any Install Applications and program
Auto-Execution settings that were saved with that file. There's
really no need for using these files with GENEVA, as the GEM.CNF
file takes care of storing that set of information.
"One thing that may seem confusing to people at first is that
although GENEVA replaces the familiar GEM menus, windows and
dialog boxes, it does not include a desktop. This means that in
order to copy, move, rename and delete files, as well as create
folders, format disks and other desktop functions, you'll need to
run an alternate desktop. NeoDesk, as you might have guessed, is
optimized to work in conjunction with GENEVA, and is fully
compatible, though GENEVA is quite capable of running without it.
There are some other alternate desktops available that are either
PD or shareware, but I haven't tested them with GENEVA, so I can't
speak for their stability.
"You use GENEVA's File Selector to launch your programs and
applications. This is accessed by selecting Open from GENEVA's
File menu. The official release date for GENEVA is slated for the
fall of '93, and I'm working on adding Copy, Move and a number of
other features and enhancements to the file selector for this
release."
(You can still use your favorite file selector to perform most of
those aforementioned functions - A & D's Universal Item Selector and
Codehead's MaxiFile/Little Green File Selector are two of my
favorites. Back to you, Dan.)
"GENEVA will launch as many programs as your memory will allow.
Although you can theoretically use GENEVA with a 520ST, the more
memory you have installed, the better-suited your system will be
to multi-tasking.
"All active programs appear in the Desk menu above your desk
accessories. Clicking on any one of these listings will place you
within that program's environment. Alternately, you can also use a
key command to cycle between programs as well. Of course, those
programs that don't support access to the Desk menu need to be run
in single tasking mode.
"Another feature of GENEVA is that the mouse pointer has a new
look to it. We've also replaced the familiar busy bee with an
animated hourglass that revolves to fill and empty the familiar
sifting sand. We've also included a SetMouse program which allows
you to select a number of alternate mouse shapes and animations as
well."
Now we come to one of GENEVA's most powerful features: the Task
Manager. This can be run as either a desk accessory or a program. The
Task Manager allows you to load and terminate programs and desk
accessories at any time, as well as access to all of Geneva's
configurable options. The main window, which contains a full listing
of all your executed programs and loaded accessories, features its own
menu bar.
The File and Options menus provide a host of additional options which
can be set for each individual program. Clicking on one of the entries
that appears in the Task Manager window will reverse highlight that
entry. Select the File option in the menu and you're presented with
the following choices: Open, Flags, Asleep and Terminate.
Open and Terminate are somewhat self-explanatory. Asleep allows you to
temporarily restrict GENEVA from actively running a program in memory.
Flags are a special ability of GENEVA which provide a means of
adapting to the various demands that different programs can make of an
operating system. What's so special about this particular feature,
Dan?
"Flags allow a user to assign each program with a custom set of
parameters. These are enabled when the program is executed,
allowing each program the ability to avoid a number of potential
memory and system call conflicts that might otherwise present
themselves when running in a multi-tasking environment. You can
assign each program to multi-task, limit window handles and memory
demands, along with a variety of other aspects. This gives GENEVA
an considerable edge in getting a wider variety of applications to
cooperate together, or at least to respect each others varying
requirements."
Dan went on to explain how additional parameters can also be assigned
by selecting the appropriate item from the Options menu; KEYBOARD,
WINDOWS, DIALOGUES, MISC. OPTIONS and VIDEO. Each of these gives you a
variety of ways to further customize each program's environment.
KEYBOARD allows assigning key commands to dialog option buttons, such
as Save, Exit or Cancel. WINDOWS offers options for resizing window
title bars and scroll arrow bars. You can also assign a custom font
and select a font size for windows.
DIALOGUES let you configure the shapes, shadings and appearances of
various dialog buttons. MISC. OPTIONS allow you to enable or disable a
number of additional features: tear-away menus; whether menus
automatically drop-down or alternately must be clicked on when using
the mouse; automatic updating of drive windows; positioning alert
boxes to appear next to the present cursor location, to mention just a
few. VIDEO offers switching between different resolutions without
having to re-boot. As with MultiTOS, all desk accessories are shut
down and then re-loaded. Anything else you'd like to mention, Dan?
"GENEVA also offers a convenient on-line Help menu which presently
covers the Task Manger, but will eventually cover all aspects of
the program. There's also an ASCII table which can be called up to
insert characters within your word processor."
"Most menu items have alternate key commands, and GENEVA will run
in all resolutions. At present, Falcon support for switching,
video resolutions remains to be added, but GENEVA does work with
all of the Falcon's supported resolutions. The scheduled fall
release of NeoDesk 4 will see a whole new look to the program and
take even better advantage of the many multi-tasking features
available in GENEVA. The release of NeoDesk 4 is slated to be
followed shortly thereafter by the official release of GENEVA."
I can't wait! Having had a chance to try out my just recently-arrived
(literally!) beta copy, my first impression of GENEVA is that it
appears to be a major programming accomplishment, despite its state of
almost-near completion. The search for multi-tasking on any ST may
well be over!
SwitchBack, Revolver, Juggler, MultiGEM - these programs have all
attempted to provide users with the ability to run more than one
program at a time on an ST. I happen to know from personal experience
(and personal expense, I might add) that none of them managed to live
up to both their intended purpose or promises.
Although the final verdict has yet to come in, it looks like a good
bet that GENEVA may be the one that finally delivers. For those
1040ST/STe, Mega ST/STe and TT030 owners who have been pining for a
way to incorporate some form of multi-tasking on their own system,
GENEVA could well be your answered prayer. Thanks Dan for giving us a
glimpse into what is sure to become another great Gribnif product!
=-=-=-=-=-=-=
//// Addendum
=-=-=-=-=-=-=
You can order GENEVA now for $50 + shipping ($69.95 when it's
officially released) and the finished release will be free of charge
to all buyers of the beta version. you can write or call them at:
Gribnif Software, P.O. Box 779, Northampton, MA 01061 (413) 247-5620
(413) 247-5622 FAX
Those users who are looking to upgrade their memory to four megs
should get in touch with their local Atari dealer. If there isn't one
in your area, you can try Toad Computers, 570-F Governor Ritchie
Highway, Severna Park, MD 21146 (800) 448-8623 for orders (410)
544-6943 for inquiries.
There's also a new product that's recently been imported from Europe
which enables a Mega ST to be upgraded to a whopping 12megs! I
understand a Mega STe/1040STe/1040ST version will also soon be
available. You can get in touch with Brad at Best Electronics (408)
243-6590 for price and details.
Look for a more detailed review of GENEVA in an upcoming issue of AEO!
So long for now.
--==--==--==--==--
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- --==--==-- Delphi Sign-Up Information --==--==-- --
-- --
-- To enroll as a Delphi subscriber, modem call 1-800-365-4636. Press --
-- [Return] once or twice, and type IP26 [Return] at Password: --
-- --
-- Answer all of the questions, and you'll be cleared for Delphi --
-- access in a few days. If you have questions about Delphi services, --
-- give a voice call to Delphi Member Services at 1-800-544-4005. --
-- --
-- --==--==-- Delphi Sign-Up Information --==--==-- --
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
--==--==--==--==--
||| AEO Calendar of Events
||| Compiled by: Ron Kovacs
/ | \ GEnie: Z-NET CIS: 75300,1642 Delphi: ZNET
----------------------------------------------------------------
//// IC Card Expo July 27-28, 1993
IC Card Expo at the Santa Clara Convention Center, Santa Clara,
California. Showcasing the latest in PC cards and related products.
Sponsored by IC Card Systems & Design (800-525-9154, 303-220-0600).
//// MIST AtariFest V July 31, 1993
The fifth annual MIST AtariFest will be held on Saturday, July 31
from 10 am to 5 pm at the Best Western Waterfront Plaza Hotel. The
Mid-Indiana Atari ST Users play host to this excellent one day event
with its proven method of success.
This year a new location has been chosen for the MIST, the Best
Western Waterfront Plaza Hotel. Offerring free shuttle service to
Indianapolis International Airport, which is just minutes away, Best
Western is convenient to both air and car travel. Several major
highways allow acces to the hotel for motorists. An assortment of
dining and entertainment choices provide interesting diversions once
the show is complete.
Whether you are a novice or a professional user, there is something
for every Atari enthusiast. Seminars, held throughout the show, can be
attended by guests or show-goers can engage in Lynx or MIDIMaze
tournaments with the best players receiving prizes. Winners of the
raffle can pick up their prizes in a number of shapes, sizes and
purpose.
Hotel reservations can be arranged by calling (317) 299-8400; mention
MIST AtarFest V and take advantage of the discount rate. For single
occupancy. guests may stay in the hotel for $53 or for a double, $59.
Special facilities for the handicapped, non-smokers and small children is
available.
Admission to this show is still only $3.
For more information, send mail inquiries to ASCII, c/o Bill Jones,
6505 West Castle Avenue, Indianapolis, IN, 46241. Or, by phone, call
(317) 856-4260. Online via GEnie, messages may be sent to W.JONES43;
on FidoNet Mail at Bill Jones at 1:231/370.0 or by InterNet/UUCP at
Bill.Jones@f370.n231.z1.fidonet.org.
//// MacWorld Expo August 3-6, 1993
MacWorld Expo at the Boston World Trade Center, Bayside Exposition
Center and sponsored by MacWorld Magazine. This event is titled Boston
'93.
//// Interop '93 August 23-27, 1993
Interop '93 (#2) at the Moscone Center in San Fransisco, California.
//// ONE BBSCON '93 August 25-29, 1993
ONE BBSCON '93 at the Broadmoor Hotel, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
This is a four day exposition presented by BoardWatch Magazine. There
will be three days of educational services, a trade show exhibit area
with over one-hundred vendors on hand. For further information on
this event and for registration information contact: Peg Coniglio at
ONE Inc., 4255 South Buckley Road, Suite 308, Aurora, Colorado 80013.
Voice: (303) 693-5253; Fax: (303) 693-5518; BBS: (303) 693-5432.
//// PenExpo August 30 - September 3, 1993
PenExpo - The Pen-Based Computing Conference at the Hynes Convention
Center in Boston Massachusettes. Pen Exposition, Conference, and
Tutorials, Sponsored by Boston University Corporate Education Center
and PEN Magazine.
//// Fed Micro '93 August 31 - September 2, 1993
Fed Micro '93. Fed Micro CDROM and Multimedia Conference & Exposition.
Washington Convention Center, Washington DC.
//// BCS*Pen September 1, 1993
BCS*Pen Monthly Meeting at the Hynes Convention Center. Meeting begins
at 7pm. Topic: "The Market for Personal Information Processors".
Speaker: Donna Dubinsky, CEO, Palm Computing, Co-sponsored with
PenExpo.
//// The Glendale Show September 18-19, 1993
The Glendale Show returns with the Southern California Atari Computer
Faire, V.7.0, in suburban Los Angeles, California. This has been the
year's largest domestic Atari event, year after year. Contact John King
Tarpinian at the user group HACKS at 818-246-7286 for information.
//// MacWorld Expo September 20-22, 1993
The third MacWorld Expo, titled Canada '93 at the Metro Toronto
Convention Centre, sponsored by MacWorld Magazine.
//// Mobile World Expo September 21-23, 1993
Mobile World Expo and Conference at the San Jose Convention Center in
San Jose California.
//// Unix Expo '93 September 21-23, 1993
Unix Expo '93 in New York City, New York at the Javits Convention
Center.
//// Image World October 4-8, 1993
Image World New York, Javits Convention Center, New York City.
//// NetWorld '93 October 5-7, 1993
NetWorld 93, Dallas Convention Center, Dallas TX.
//// Lap & Palmtop Expo October 7-8, 1993
Lap & Palmtop Mobile Computing Expo at the Chicago Mart/Expo Center
in Chicago, Illinois. Exhibitors will show the latest in mobile
computing, software, pen, peripherals and communications from the
industry's leading manufacturers. In conjunction with the exhibits is
the Mobile Systems Solutions Conference series. Featuring over 80
leading industry experts speakers, the conference provides vital
information needed to build or improve your world of mobile computing.
//// PC Expo October 19-21, 1993
PC Expo-Chicago, McCormick Place East, Chicago IL.
//// CD-ROM Expo October 27-29, 1993
CD-ROM Exposition at the World Trade Center, Boston MA.
//// EDA&T Asia '93 October 27-29, 1993
EDA&T Asia '93. The Electronic Design and Test Conference Exhibition
at the Taipei International Convention Center in Taiwan. Exhibit space
is still available. For more information contact: Betsy Donahue,
Chicago, Fax: 708-475-2794.
//// November 1-3, 1993
Online/CD-ROM '93, Washington DC.
//// GeoCon/93 November 7-10, 1993
GeoCon/93, an international conference and showcase for software
products developed outside the U.S. at the Royal Sonesta Hotel,
Cambridge, Mass. The conference program will include three days of
workshops on topics of interest to overseas developers entering the
U.S. market. Workshop presenters will discuss such issues as how to
negotiate distribution and licensing contracts, setting up a business
in the U.S., manufacturing and fulfillment, technical support,
packaging, research sources, and how to market through direct,
retail, and catalog channels. For additional information, contact Tom
Stitt, associate publisher, Soft letter, 17 Main St., Watertown, Mass.
02272-9154; Telephone 617-924-3944; Fax 617-924-7288, or Colleen
O'Shea, director, Soft letter Europe, 2 um Bierg, 7641 Chirstnach,
Luxembourg, Telephone: 35.2.87119; Fax: 35.2.87048.
//// COMDEX November 15-19, 1993
COMDEX Fall '93. Las Vegas Nevada.
//// Mobile '94 March 6-10, 1994
Mobile '94 Conference and Exposition at the San Jose Convention Center.
//// SAC Expo 94 March 12-13, 1994
S.T.A.R (formerly known as SST) proudly announces SAC Expo 94. The
second annual Sacramento Atari Computer Exposition will be held
Saturday and Sunday at the Towe Ford Museum: 2200 Front Street,
Sacramento, California 95818. The Towe Ford Museum was so excited
about the '93 show that they allocated nearly double the space in the
museum for SAC Expo 94. STAR will be mailing vendor packets by
September, if you are a vendor and did not receive a packet for SAC
Expo 93, please contact us so you will not be missed this year. Look
for future press releases containing more details, vendor lists, and
show information. For more information contact STAR at P.O. Box
214892, Sacramento, CA 95821-0892.
//// GEC '94 June 4-11, 1994
GEC '94, Milam ITALY. Centrexpo, Sheila Palka/Delia Associates, PO Box
338, Route 22 West, Whitehouse, NJ 08888; (800) 524-2193, (908)
534-6856 (Fax).
If you have an event you would like to include on the AEO Calender of
Events, please send email via GEnie to Z-NET, CompuServe 75300,1642, or
via FNET to node 593 or AtariNet node 51:1/13.0. International shows
also covered.
--==--==--==--==--
||| The Unabashed Atariophile
||| By: Michael R. Burkley
/ | \ GEnie: AEO.4 Delphi: MRBURKLEY
----------------------------------------------------------------
In my last column I talked about how closely connected to each other.
If you remember it only takes five "hand-to-hand" transfers to send a
letter coast to coast. This week I want to ask your help in finding
someone (actually, two someones). My favorite banner program is
DMBANNER, by Dwight Morgan. I reviewed it several months ago, but you
can read about it again below. My problem is that it is SHAREWARE, and
now that I've finally gotten around to sending off my registration fee
(only $10) I find that he's moved and that there is no forwarding
address (he used to live in Wilmington, DE)! Can you help me find him!
Another person I would like to find is Kristofer H. Cruz. Kristofer
wrote KDOODLE v.1.1 (read about it below). I'd like to contact him,
but I can't find him! He wrote an excellent SHAREWARE program, but he
can't get my registration until I (or YOU) can find him. Can you help
me out!
I wish there was some way for shareware authors to register their
addresses so that they might keep them current. Perhaps GEnie and/or
Delphi could start such a database. Anything to encourage shareware
authors!
It's been a busy two weeks with vacation time and four days recovering
from a horrid ear infection (I don't remember them hurting that much
when I was a kid!). So while I've downloaded piles of files, I've
only gotten to write descriptions of a few files. But, I guess that
the ones I've described are the ones that caught my attention right
off. I hope you enjoy your reading!
AUTORAIS is AutoRaise by Annius Groenink (dated July 1, 1991). This is
a small accessory that presents you with an alert box to let you
switch on/off an autoraise function. What does that mean? It means
that from now on you don't need to click on a window to get to to come
to the top. Just move your mouse over a window and in about 200
miliseconds it will pop to the top. It works quite well, except that
sometimes after a dialog it "clicks" in some active window, thinking
that it has to pop it up (though not very often). Color or mono. Docs
included. STe compatible. Don't use through MultiDesk.
BACKGRND is three nicely done .PI2 pictures designed for use as
desktop background screens. The first is is a series of parallel
horizontal columns consisting of interlocking bars with a vaguely
Egyptian theme (or at least that's what the name, "EGYPT" leads me to
believe!). The next is entitled ESCHER and is his drawing of flying
flocks of birds creating their opposite color counterparts by their
empty spaces. The third is RIVETS, and causes my eyes to water! 3-D
rivets are regularly spaced about the screen, but they seem to wander
about when you're not staring straight at them!
BSPCLK is the Bermuda Clock v.1.1 by Bruno Essmann (dated June 10,
1992). This .ACC clock will allow you display your system time (with
or without seconds) in the upper right corner; display free memory
(FastRam may be displayed separately); will work on all TOS versions
(but I'm not sure about the Falcon), and will work in all resolutions
(as long as they aren't ST low or med.!). Docs included.
CRUSSTAR is a Lexicor Chronos 3D .FLM animation of a starship
preparing for FTL travel. It rotates before you and then recedes into
the distance. Player program included. ST Low Rez.
DICTHELP is the Dictionary Helper v.1.00 from SanDenico Enterprises
(Dom D'Antonio). Dictionary helper is a 1384+ word file you add to your
spelling checker dictionary to reduce the number of false alarms-words
that get flagged even though they are spelled correctly. Import this
file into your favorite word processor and do a spell check on it. Add
the words you think you'll need to your speller. This file contains
everyday abbreviations and contractions, the names of the 50 states and
their capitals (along with other major cities, foreign countries and
many foreign cities, and other Atari specific vocabulary. Recommended.
DMBANNER by Dwight Morgan of M S I of Wilmington, is the best banner
program I have ever seen. This is a must have!! The output is great.
You can even print messages inside the letters of your banner. Docs
included. Color or mono. SHAREWARE.
DMJPICAT is a series of 20 Spectrum (SPC) pictures created by Damien
M. Jones using his SPC Thumb, picture categorizing utility. Damien,
the author of SPC Thumb, View II, SoundLab, and DMJ_GIF (among others)
has passed these out so you can ask for any picture from him you wish.
There are LOTS - 25 per Spectrum picture. They are high quality as
well. This is a very good demo of just what SPC Thumb is for. An
almost completely working demo is also available just about
everywhere.
ENVIRO is a Calamus .CFN font. It is an upper and lower case font (the
lower case looks the same as the upper only smaller) that has the
number characters and only a few punctuation marks. It mimicks a
flowing hand-printed style full of bold strokes. While not the
greatest and most refined of creations, this could be useful at times.
Uploaded to GEnie by D. Hawkins, and perhaps created by him. (on
CodeHead, too).
F6_01 is the July 4, 1993 sample of a BBS Express! Script File to be
executed from the the Keyboard Function Keys (F6 through F9). If you
are a registered owner of BBS Express, then this file just might be
for you!
Do you remember that I told you that I had problems with File Cat
v.1.3 by Randy Hoekstra, and my large Hard Drive? Well, it wasn't a
problem with my hard drive but rather with the number of files and
folders I had on my partitions. I talked with the author and this is
what he wrote: File Cat is currently hard coded with a limit of 200
folders per drive (partition), 1000 files per folder, and 5000 total
files per drive. Exceeding any one of these limits will cause the
program to crash. These limits are due to the memory intensive
requirements of having three complete lists of file information loaded
at one time (plus a possible text file display) and an attempt to
remain compatible with the original 520ST computer. A future version
is planned to allow these limits to be user defined within the limits
of available memory and according to the needs of each user. So that
means that most of you won't have any problems with File Cat, just as
it is right now. But it will get even better in the future! Now
that's service for you!
FPSTAR by D. Moen is a Lexicor Chronos .FLM animation (with viewer
included), that shows a very nicely done Next Generation Enterprise
leaving Earth orbit and flying off to the stars on Impulse drive. Low
rez color.
FROGGER is Frogger!, a remake of an old 8-bit game now done by Dave
Munsie. The object of the game is to move your frog through hazards
like cars and other objects in order to make it all the way to one of
the safe froggy homes on the <other> side of the screen. Use your
joystick to guide the little critter. I have enjoyed playing this
game. The colors and bright and attractive. The game is easily
controlled. Color only with any amount of RAM. ST--TT compatible
(should work on a Falcon, too). Donationware.
HAWKMAN by D. Hawkins is a Calamus .CFN font of his handwriting! He
uses it to write letters that almost look like handwritten letters
(printed), but in this case, more legible. This is a upper-case only
font that contains number characters and some basic punctuation. It's
not your standard block printing, but rather uses a curved and flowing
style. GEnie, CodeHead.
KDOODLE1 is KDOODLER v.1.1 (dated Oct. 8, 1988) by Kristofer H. Cruz.
It is a monochrome based graphics drawing and manipulation program
that will also work on a color monitor. It is not a CAD system
(although far less capable PD programs have been pushed off as such).
It is for the person who wants to use some of the more advanced
graphic features to do High Tech doodling. This program will do almost
anything you might wish a High Tech doodling program to do. This
program is for you! DEGAS, Printmaster, MacPaint files are all
supported. SHAREWARE.
* Works in colo or mono * Import PM+ shapes (reg. vrs only)
* Import MacPaint (reg. vrs only) * Magnify or fatbits
* Separate color palettes * Editable fill
* Color Fills * Improved error checking
* Four working screens. * Cut-N-Paste,Buffer,Blend
* Screen inversion * Copy-N-Paste,Buffer
* Degas Compatible * Bit Image Format
* Contrasting * Editable Fills
* Editable Text * Editable Paint
* Editable Linetypes * Text Rotation
* Image Mirroring * Image Ghosting
* Image Negatives * Circles,Ellipses,Box, Rbox
* Chalk * Rubberbanding
* Lines * Undo Command
* Printing position line
As you can see this is one capable program. TOS 1,0-1.62 compatible
(that shows the skill of the programmer to do it right in such an old
program!).
LDONUT is "Two Little Falcon030 Demos Knocked up in a day" by Martin
Griffiths and TK Dentrassi. These two demos will show you...
- 50khz linearly interpolated 16 bit stereo sound using DSP,
- True Colour Gouraud Shading,
- And a little DSP rotated 3D Sphere of 1000 points.
As the uploader says, "Has a true-color intro screen, and awesome
shaded object rotation. Also has a 50KHz soundtrack with oversampling
playback. Also includes a sphere rotation demo. Requires 1224
mode/TV." You also need a program to switch your Falcon into the
PAL/50Hz mode (see PAL below). Over 970K uncompressed, so you will
need that hard drive (and a Falcon!).
MC20 is a working demo (or free update if you already own the
commercial program!) of MEGA-Check 2 v.2.03 by Chris Muller of Muller
Automation (dated July, 1993). This newest upgrade to this constantly
improving product fixes a bug with TOS 1.0 and 1.2. A fully working
demo (with only a 30 transaction limit) will allow you to easily (well,
fairly easily!) track your finances, personal, investment, and
business. GEM based, it has features that I really appreciate. It
doesn't require you to learn any arcane language to use it. It
interacts with you in plain English, and tells you what to do in the
same way.
Here are just some of it's features: A built-in alarm that won't let
you forget to pay your bills or create a needed report; fully
automated checkbook balancing; prints out your checks on any printer;
add or edit any number of accounts (limited only by your computer's
memory); configurable warnings when specific account balances get too
high or too low (avoid account charges and limit risks in various
investments; run "what if" projections; track appreciation/
depreciation; add extended notes to any transaction; built-in address/
phone database; very powerful report generation - and all in the
"background" as well, which increases your productivity, and extensive
on-line help.
This version implements an improved "on-the-fly" data compression
which will free up a lot of your disk space. Color or mono. ST--TT
compatible (in ST resolutions). Requires at least one meg of RAM. This
file uncompresses to 814K, so you will either need a hard drive or an
extended format disk to uncompress it.
MDP_213 is Mega Depack v.2.13 by Mike Watson (dated June 4, 1993).
This .PRG/.ACC (just rename it) will uncompress/unpack just about any
file packed with any of a zillion different packers (actually 54
packers supported with 92 different file formats, including DC Squish,
Pack Ice, Pompey Packer, PFX and MANY more). Mouse or command line
controlled. Batch processing available. Why would you need to unpack
a program? If you have a hard drive space might not be as critical and
an unpacked file will often load faster. Another reason is that when
you update a STOS program for a new TOS version (such as STOSFX21
allows you to do), you need to work with an uncompressed program.
There are other reasons as well! This is a very "intelligent" and
versatile program which I highly recommend. Color or mono. TOS
1.0--Falcon compatible. SHAREWARE (I've registered). Docs included.
GEnie.
NSLTRLYT is a Calamus 1.09 .CDK document by D. Harris of Laser's Edge
Graphics. It is the template of a church newsletter. It contains some
text (interesting!) and graphics, along with various text effects
created through Calamus' built-in tools. While this file uses lots of
PD fonts, you can substitute your own with little ill effect. The
author offers it to us as an idea booster.
NUMBRS10 is Learn My Numbers v.1.0 by Anthony Watson (dated July 10,
1993). I liked this color and mono learning game. Designed for pre-
schoolers who are just learning their numbers, Learn My Numbers will
ask (in a pleasing male voice - Anthony's?) the child to press a
number (using the mouse). The child then gets a word of approval
"That's correct!" or other similar words in a cartoonish, upbeat
voice. Incorrect answers simply give the child the chance to keep on
trying until he or she gets it right. This game is played until nine
correct or nine incorrect answers are recorded, and the score is
announced. High scores are saved to disk. There is a practice mode
where when the child presses any number that number's name is spoken.
Docs included. Shareware. STE--Falcon required. The older ST's do not
have the needed DMA sound hardware. This might even run on a 520 STe,
but one meg for sure.
PAL is a program by Bry Edewaard that will switch your Falcon into the
PAL/50Hz mode with your SC1224. This little program can replace all
those 50Hz programs for the ST that don't work on the Falcon. Thanks
Bry for being a Pal!
PSY_PIG2 is Pyscho Pig II. This is an excellent platform-style game.
It's quite large, ending up on two disks. You play the role of Pyscho
Pig, the SuperPig who has taken on the task on the task of rescuing a
clutch of baby crocodiles from an evil bird who wants to turn them
into purses! Battle across four different landscapes gathering
everything you need to save the day. Jump, float, fly, bounce from
platform to platform, climb hills, burrow through the ground--in short
everything you see on any "Super NES" machine is right here.
Shareware, and well worth it. Color only. A STOS game (TOS 1.62
compatible, at least--but check out STOSFX21 for higher versions of
TOS).
RSRCDUMP is RSRC_DUMP() v.1.00 by Lonny L. Pursell (dated Jyly 2,
1993). He wrote this program to allow him to examine some of the neat
things that other programmers do to make their programs usable and
beautiful. This will un-load (if you will) a resource file from a
running program. You can then examine this resource file to your
heart's content, seeing just how an author made that icon on screen or
whatever. You can save these files to disk with the press of a key for
further checking with a resource editor. Works with .ACCs and programs
that can run external applications. Color or mono. STe--TT compatible
(at least). Docs included. CodeHead.
RUDE_V10 is the Rude Dog Software Viewer v.1.0, Pure C by Sean P.
Price. Rude Dog (RD) will work in any ST/TT resolution (though it will
only display text in 80 column or above modes)and will display your
ASCII text (much faster than previous versions), VT52, ANSI, Degas
.PI? and .PC? images, NeoChrome .NEO images, and Prism Paint .PNT
images (all in their appropriate resolutions). It detects ANSI files
automatically (great for you BBSers!), and will display them using as
many colors as are available. It also fully supports ANSI attributes
such as Ghost and Underline. It has separate ANSI fonts for 8 and 16
line font sizes giving you high quality character output. One thing I
really like is that this program returns your screen colors to their
original form after RD runs. ST-Falcon compatible. Now MultiTOS
compatible. Docs included. SHAREWARE ($3-5).
SPEAKOF2 is v.2.0 of a small AUTO-Folder utility by Thomas Binder that
will allow you to switch the internal speaker of your Falcon 030 off.
If you have version 1.0 don't use it because it could mess up your
floppies! This version fixes that! This is especially useful for those
of you who have external speakers hooked up to your Falcon and don't
want to be bothered by the (loud) internal speaker. By pressing the
SHIFT key at bootup this program will not turn off the speaker.
Falcon required!
STFLY is an OK Chronos .FLM animation (with player program included)
that shows the NCC-1701D (the Next Generation) flying towards you. A
Klingon Cruiser flys over your shoulder and away from you. Requires at
least one meg of RAM and ST Low rez. 614K uncompressed.
STOSFX21 is STOS FIXER v.2.1 by Robert Quezada (dated July 1, 1993).
This program will take your STOS programs, run-time or compiled, and
allow you to update them for any TOS release. It's a very handy thing
to have when you have a nice STOS program that won't run on your TOS!
They even remain compatible with TOS 1.0 (an earlier version of this
program wrote the new data to the TOS 1.0 addresses and rendered the
program incompatible with that TOS). Color or mono. The program must
not be compressed for this to work (so get Mega de-pack v.2.13 to
uncompress any packed programs). Color or mono. Docs included.
TILE_KIT from CALI-CO is their MAH-JONG solitaire Tile Set Creation
Kit for use with their Mah-Jong solitaire v.3.0 game. This will allow
you to design your own tile sets. Directions included. If you haven't
seen their Mah-Jong solitaire you might want to hunt for their free
demo. It's good! Lo-rez color only.
TRAILER is a scanned .IMG of a large solid shell camping trailer (the
kind with two axels). Useful for DTP work.
Remember to keep an eye peeled for Dwight Morgan and Kristofer H.
Cruz! They're two too good programmers to get lost!
Finally, I've decided to usually not mention where I find my files.
Often they are found on Delphi or GEnie, both excellent services with
I heartily recommend to you. If you can't find a file on one, you
likely can find it on the other. For those files that have only shown
up on CodeHead's BBS, Toad Hall or The Boston Computer Society's BBS
(and there are numbers of those), I will mention their source for you
to follow up on, if you wish.
Take care.
All of these files can be found on one or more of the following on-line
services: GEnie (AEO.4 or M.BURKLEY1), Delphi (MRBURKLEY), The
CodeHead BBS (213-461-2095), Toad Hall (617-567-8642), and The Boston
Computer Society's Atari BBS (617-396-4607) (Michael R. Burkley). Drop
me a line!
Michael lives in Niagara Falls, NY. He is a former Polyurethane
Research Chemist and is presently the pastor of the Niagara
Presbyterian Church.
--==--==--==--==--
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
-- --==--==-- GEnie Sign-Up Information --==--==-- --
-- --
-- 1. Set your communications software for half duplex (local echo) --
-- at 300, 1200, or 2400 baud. --
-- --
-- 2. Dial toll free: 1-800-638-8369 (or in Canada, 1-800-387-8330). --
-- Upon connection, enter HHH. --
-- --
-- 3. At the U# prompt, enter XTX99436,GENIE then press <Return>. --
-- --
-- 4. Have a major credit card ready. In the U.S., you may also use --
-- your checking account number. --
-- --
-- For more information in the United States or Canada, call 1-800- --
-- 638-9636 or write: GEnie, c/o GE Information Services, P.O. Box --
-- 6403, Rockville, MD 20850-1785. --
-- --
-- --==--==-- Atari's Official On-line Resource! --==--==-- --
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
--==--==--==--==--
||| What is this ATARI UNITED! thing?
||| By: Gordie Meyer
/ | \ Delphi: BIBLINSKI
------------------------------------------------------------------
When ATARI UNITED! was first announced in an online conference on
DELPHI, some DELPHI members had questions, which I'm sure others
share, about the intent, focus and reasoning behind ATARI UNITED!. A
bit of history about the development of this organization might help
begin to answer those questions.
ATARI UNITED! was born out of the suspicion that more Atari TOS
computer owners exist than most in the active Atari community realize.
Patti and I have both had many experiences in which we have come into
contact with owners who had no idea that a thriving Atari community
still existed. We have both been responsible for bringing ST owners
'out-of-the-closet' and renewing their use of their machines. And, of
course, with every renewed Atari owner comes some degree of new
spending on equipment and/or software.
ATARI UNITED! has been organized with the intent of searching out
these isolated owners on a nationwide scale, with the hope that these
users will expand the active userbase. And as a result will promote
new business for our loyal developers. ATARI UNITED! seeks to repair
the disintegration of communication between users and developers in
the Atari market, especially because of the demise of many printed
Atari-specific magazines that all too often are an owner's only link
to the community.
A late night conversation about the dismal state of the Atari market
in the US led to a discussion about ways that it could be improved,
independent of direct Atari Corporation involvement. Obviously, we
concluded that the creation of a nationwide database containing
information about users, dealers and developers was the first step in
rebuilding the lost lines of communication. This has become the first
priority of our fledgling organization. While it is being compiled,
other projects are and will be developed, so that our database can be
utilized to its full extent when more complete.
Atari user groups have always been a valuable means of keeping the
Atari community together, and it was obvious that user groups were the
best place to begin compiling information. Bob Brodie, Director of
Communication for Atari Corporation, and former User Group
Coordinator, was contacted, provided an outline of our purpose and
plan of action, and asked for a list of user groups that could be used
in the effort. He was happy to provide us with the necessary
information, and so, the work began.
The name ATARI UNITED! was chosen, and again, Bob Brodie was
contacted. Permission to use Atari's name was granted, so long as the
organization was used to support Atari products and their users. As
this was the very foundation of the organization, an informal
agreement was quickly reached, and ATARI UNITED! became our offical
name. It was further determined that AU! should be a not-for-profit
organization, similar to the general form that Atari user groups have
taken over the years. ATARI UNITED! does not exist to bilk Atari users
out of their money. Actually, we'd prefer that their money be invested
in hardware and software, so our loyal developers can make a living.
We intend to make all ATARI UNITED! services and projects as
affordable as possible. Registration is free of course, and many of
the other benefits we will be able to provide will be free of cost to
the user also.
ATARI UNITED!'s first project beyond the database is a quarterly
DiskMagazine. It will be geared to provide developer news, product
reviews, game hints, help columns, and a few surprises. Eventually,
program demos might be included, so a taste of what is up and coming
can be given as wide an audience as possible. While similar things are
now available in the online magazines, it is important to realize that
most of the Atari community members are not 'modemized', and that many
TOS computer owners have no real link with the rest of the market. So,
it is not so much a matter of duplicating what already exists, as a
matter of distribution where that kind of information is so
desperately needed. Kinda like being modern technological
missionaries!
The potential for ATARI UNITED! is enormous, for both the developers
and the owners of TOS computers. With better channels of
communication, developers will be able to sell more products,
encouraging them to continue investing in the TOS market. We, as
users, will continue to be able to purchase new products, and find
support for the old.
One particular benefit for user groups will grow as the database of
TOS computer owners grows. User groups who register with ATARI UNITED!
will have their contact information made available to anyone who
inquires about TOS support in their area. User groups will also
periodically be given access to information about local users
contacted by us. Just as the developer and the user can be connected,
so too can user groups and users. It's all a part of strengthening the
communication channels throughout the entire market.
In addition to communication between groups and owners, we can also
help on the individual level. When an owner has a problem with his/her
system, or with a piece of software, it is often helpful to contact
someone nearby with the knowledge to solve the problem. Even if a user
doesn't have a 'problem' per se, the exchange of information and ideas
can only benefit the community. Some users are lucky enough to have a
local dealer, but for many, 'local' is a term that can mean several
hundred miles. All of those in that predicament will be able to locate
owners nearby. Just consider us a friendly dating service for your
Atari computer!
Some of our future projects are not far enough along to be openly
discussed, but there are some exciting possibilities out there. It is
important that we don't take on too much too quickly, only to find
that we can't handle our first priorities. Too often a
well-intentioned enterprise fails while trying to do too much all at
once. Instead, we want to grow slowly with the aid and support of
everyone involved in the Atari community. With this in mind, the
number of staff at ATARI UNITED! is being kept very small. We have
received many offers from users volunteering to help with our project,
and we are encouraged by all the offers. But in these early stages, it
is essential that our focus be maintained. Too many people with too
many ideas would only serve to dilute our efforts at this point.
However, as we grow, we will be adding to our little group, to better
serve the Atari community.
ATARI UNITED! intends to succeed in its effort to strengthen the Atari
community. Time and money have already been expended to that end, and
we are fully ready to expend more. But, it'll take the cooperation and
support of TOS computer owners all across the US to make ATARI UNITED!
the best it can be. To help us help all of you, register now, while
you are thinking about it! Together, we will make the Atari community
stronger!
Gordie Meyer ATARI UNITED!
=================================================================
To register:
Complete the registration form below, and send to:
============================================
ATARI UNITED!
P.O. Box 691
Mountain View, CA 94042-0691
or via e-mail to:
abarbiero@delphi.com
============================================
Name (Last, First, MI): _________________________________________
Mailing Address: _________________________________________
_________________________________________
City, State, Zip: _________________________________________
Computer Model: ___ 520 ST ___ 520 STe ___ TT
___ 1040 ST ___ 1040 STe ___ F030
___ Mega ST ___ Mega STe
Computer Serial Number: _________________________________________
User Group (if a member):_________________________________________
=======For further information, contact:=======
Patti Barbiero Gordie Meyer
P.O. Box 691 P.O. Box 1982
Mountain View, CA 94042-0691 or Ames, IA 50010-1982
(415) 903-9787 (515) 232-1627
abarbiero@delphi.com biblinski@delphi.com
--==--==--==--==--
||| GEnie Atari ST RoundTable News
||| Courtesy: GEnie Atari ST RT (with thanks to John Hartman!)
/ | \ GEnie: J.G.H.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Atari RT Weekly News 7.3
= UPCOMING ATARI SHOWS =
************************************************************
* BLUE RIDGE ATARI and COMPUTER *
* COMPUTER ENTHUSIASTS /\ STUDIO *
* / \ *
* /\ /\ / \ /\ *
* / \ / \/ \ / \ *
* /\ / \/ /\/ /\ \/ \ /\ *
* / \/ \/ \ / \ \ \/ \ *
* *
* Invites one and All to our *
* Fourth Annual Blue Ridge AtariFest *
* July 24-25 1993 (10am-6pm Sat. / Noon-5pm Sun.) *
* Westgate Shopping Center, Asheville, NC *
* *
* Additional Info in Atari RT - Category 11 Topic 13 *
************************************************************
= REAL TIME CONFERENCES =
----------------------------------
Damien M. Jones of dmj Software, author of DMJ GIF, Sound Lab
and View II will be the featured guest in the July 28th RTC.
Come on into the RTC, room 1, at 10 pm Eastern. DMJ GIF, Sound
Lab AND View II will be given as door prizes.
-----------------------------------
= ATARI RT LIBRARY =
= RTC TRANSCRIPS =
------------------------------------------------------
29388 STI_CN.ARC X BRIAN.H 930717 16512 87 13
Desc: Current Notes/ST Informer RTC 14 Jul
29335 DAVE_GBS.ARC X BRIAN.H 930711 20224 351 13
Desc: Gadgets (Dave Small) 7th July RTC
29310 BRODIE11.ARC X ST.LOU 930710 13184 529 13
Desc: Falcon/Jaguar/TT News!
28966 BRODIE10.ARC X ST.LOU 930605 17280 727 13
Desc: Falcon and Jaguar News from Bob!
------------------------------------------------------
= LAST WEEK'S PRESS RELEASES =
------------------------------------------------------
29405 NOVAUPDT.ARC X LEXICOR2 930718 1664 23 14
Desc: Nova Special Update
29403 HOTFOOT.TXT X R.CONSTAN 930718 1920 20 14
Desc: HOTFOOT PRODUCT ANNOUNCEMENT
29382 TOADJULY.ZIP X TOAD-SERV. 930716 5504 271 14
Desc: TOAD COMPUTERS -- July Specials!
29372 STCAT_21.ZIP X B.VARGO 930716 259072 73 14
Desc: D & P Computer Disk Catalog
29371 JAG_NEWS.ARC X G.MATTHIJETZ 930716 4352 200 14
Desc: EET article about Atari Jaguar
29362 CAL_SL.UPD X POTECHIN 930714 4736 142 14
Desc: New Upgrade for Calamus SL from DMC
29345 BULKMAIL.LZH X J.EIDSVOOG1 930713 3072 142 14
Desc: CodeHead Giveaway (ASCII version)
29343 LEX_RESP.LZH X DABRUMLEVE 930712 3840 242 14
Desc: Response re Lexicor's expulsion
29324 GENPICS.LZH X GRIBNIF 930710 16768 161 14
Desc: Geneva Screen Shots (Medium/High)
------------------------------------------------------
= LAST WEEK'S DEMO RELEASES =
------------------------------------------------------
29402 HOTFOOT.ARC X R.CONSTAN 930718 10752 11 10
Desc: Hands free control of ST Keyboard
29361 OMENINTR.TXT X CCARMICHAEL 930714 7552 48 10
Desc: Intro to OMEN for Developers
29328 OMENTT_D.ARC X CCARMICHAEL 930711 94592 55 10
Desc: GUI O/S for 68000s TT/Falcon Demo
29327 OMENST_D.ARC X CCARMICHAEL 930711 95360 102 10
Desc: New GUI O/S for 68000s ST Demo
------------------------------------------------------
= LAST TWO WEEK'S TOP 10 DOWNLOADED PROGRAMS =
------------------------------------------------------
29320 FROGGER.LZH X D.MUNSIE 930710 57984 210 8
Desc: A hopping good game! Try it...
29341 YAHTZEE.LZH X R.NABITY 930712 29824 136 8
Desc: Yahtzee Dice Game
29311 MSA_2_32.LZH X E.JOLLEY 930710 25088 120 40
Desc: Magic Shadow Archiver II, v2.3+
29327 OMENST_D.ARC X CCARMICHAEL 930711 95360 102 10
Desc: New GUI O/S for 68000s ST Demo
29319 ATARINET.ZIP X OUTRIDER 930710 25600 96 7
Desc: AtariNet Starter Kit
29344 JITTRBUG.ZIP X M.BURKLEY1 930712 75008 82 8
Desc: Jitterbug, MIDI/Multiplayer game
29353 WINLUP66.ZIP X GRMEYER 930713 113152 60 2
Desc: Window Magnifier Util
29328 OMENTT_D.ARC X CCARMICHAEL 930711 94592 55 10
Desc: GUI O/S for 68000s TT/Falcon Demo
29250 DICTHELP.LZH X D.DANTONIO 930705 6272 55 21
Desc: Dictionary Helper-Add 2 Spell Checkr
29331 ZOOM3.LST X BALKCOM 930711 3968 52 3
Desc: Working GFA code to resize PUT seg.
------------------------------------------------------
= LAST TWO WEEK'S INTERNET ARCHIVES =
------------------------------------------------------
29369 INET35.ARC X POTECHIN 930715 13568 33 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 13, 1993
29363 INET34.ARC X POTECHIN 930714 13440 25 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 13, 1993
29360 INET33.ARC X POTECHIN 930714 12672 22 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 13, 1993
29350 INET32.ARC X POTECHIN 930713 2944 27 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 12, 1993
29349 INET31.ARC X POTECHIN 930713 11264 20 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 12, 1993
29348 INET30.ARC X POTECHIN 930713 23808 23 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 12, 1993
29342 INET29.ARC X POTECHIN 930712 9344 25 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 11, 1993
29303 INET28.ARC X POTECHIN 930709 12800 29 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 8, 1993
29302 INET27.ARC X POTECHIN 930709 6528 24 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 8, 1993
29301 INET26.ARC X POTECHIN 930709 21760 16 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 8, 1993
29296 INET25.ARC X POTECHIN 930708 7168 20 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 8, 1993
29290 INET24.ARC X POTECHIN 930708 11776 24 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 8, 1993
29289 INET23.ARC X POTECHIN 930708 29696 18 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 8, 1993
29270 INET22.ARC X POTECHIN 930706 57216 26 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 6, 1993
29265 INET21.ARC X POTECHIN 930706 66816 19 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 6, 1993
29232 INET20.ARC X POTECHIN 930703 27520 39 48
Desc: Internet Archive July 3, 1993
------------------------------------------------------
--==--==--==--==--
||| Atari Developer CD-ROM Announcement
||| By: Mike Fulton
/ | \ GEnie: MIKE-FULTON CIS: 75300,1141 Delphi: ATARITECH
----------------------------------------------------------------
This file may be freely distributed & reprinted provided it is complete
and unedited.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Mike Fulton, Atari Developer Support
To: Atari Developer Community & Atari Programmers everywhere
Atari Developer CDROM
---------------------
Atari is currently in the production stages of creating a Developer
CDROM disc that will be offered to both new and existing developers.
The initial release is slated for the developer conference that is going
to be held on Friday, September 17, 1993 in Glendale, California, the
day before "Atari Computer Faire, Version 7.0" starts (AKA "The Glendale
Show").
Once the initial version of the disc has been released, we expect to
have updates a couple of times a year with new material and any
necessary corrections. Once you've purchased the disc, you'll be able
to get the upgrade discs at reduced cost. (Exact pricing information
for the disc and/or updates is not available at this time, but it
should be pretty reasonable.)
Since not all developers will already be using a CDROM drive with their
system, we plan to include a floppy disk that will have the necessary
CDROM driver software to allow them to access the disc once they have
connected a CDROM drive to their computer.
===========================================================================
Here's a preliminary outline of what we hope to include on the disc:
(This is still preliminary subject to change without notice, of course!)
===========================================================================
* All of the current versions of all of the programs and files in the
Atari developer's kit, plus additional related items not included in
the regular kit.
* Atari Falcon030-specific developer's tools such as the DSP
Assembler, Linker, and Debugger
* Current release of SpeedoGDOS outline font scaler
* Current release of MultiTOS multitasking operating system
* Atari Works -- integrated word processor, spreadsheet, database
* Programs that currently ship with Atari computers such as the
Falcon030 (but which work with older machines) that not everybody
may have, such as:
CalAppt -- Calendar/Appointment Book/Address Book
Procalc -- Calculator Accessory (with number-base conversions)
Talking Clock -- STE/TT/Falcon030 Talking Clock Program/accessory
Accessory Games -- Breakout, Landmine
Audio Fun Machine -- Assign sounds to keystrokes & system events on
STE/TT/Falcon030
* Online Documentation -- The disc contents will be described in an
online hypertext format. Additionally, at least some of the regular
developer's documentation will also be available in hypertext
format. (With more to come on future updates.)
Imagine being able to look at a function reference of all the
functions described in the GEMDOS manual. You click on
"Fsfirst()" and get a description of that function. While you're
looking at that, you start to wonder what the rules for legal
filenames are, so you click on "Filename" and see a description
of what constitutes a legal filename.
* Demo programs -- graphics demos, sound demos, etc. For all
machines, especially the new Atari Falcon030.
* Sample source code -- for new TOS features, from past developer
newsletters, and so on.
===========================================================================
Aside from all of the above, there are three additional categories of
files that we would like to include. These categories all depend to a
large degree on submissions from the Atari Developer community.
===========================================================================
* Public-domain & shareware development tools, utilities, & source
code.
We would like to include as much public domain and shareware
stuff as we can. We want development tools, utilties, sample
source code, and anything else that is programming-related. For
example, we would like to include things like the GNU GCC
compiler (C & C++) and other GNU tools, and possibly other PD or
shareware compilers as well.
We would like to include just about any kind of developer
oriented program, but we do have a few basic guidelines about the
submissions that we would like to follow:
1) The software should be compatible with both SpeedoGDOS and
MultiTOS. By 'compatible' I mean it doesn't crash or
mess up the display in some fashion. Taking advantage of
either SpeedoGDOS or MultiTOS is not required, although it
is certainly welcome.
If you have something that you might like to submit, and
you aren't sure how it behaves with SpeedoGDOS or
MultiTOS, please just go ahead and submit it. We will be
testing submissions as much as possible before including
them. Include information for any compatibility problems
you already know about.
If you know for a fact that your submission doesn't work
with SpeedoGDOS and/or MultiTOS, but feel that other
developers will still find it quite useful, then let us
know about it and perhaps we'll make an exception here and
there (pun absolutely intended! ;^).
In most cases, incompatibility problems with SpeedoGDOS
and MultiTOS are easy to fix, because they are usally
caused by one of a small handfull of programming errors.
If you make your submission, it may be the case that we
can point out what's wrong and you will be able to fix it
without too much trouble.
One problem that some programs have regarding MultiTOS is
that they don't do their console & screen I/O in a
consistent manner. They mix up BIOS, GEMDOS and GEM calls
all together. For example, they might use Bconin() to
get keyboard input and then they'll use v_gtext() to
output information to the screen. Or they'll use
evnt_keybd() or evnt_multi() to get their input, and then
use Bconout() or Cconws() or some other such BIOS or
GEMDOS call to do their screen I/O.
This doesn't work too well with MultiTOS where programs
generally don't own the whole system and have to share
the keyboard and display screen with other programs.
If you're going to do be a GEM program, then you should do
all of your screen & console I/O through GEM. If you're
not a GEM program, then you should do all of your console
& screen I/O through the BIOS and GEMDOS. Pick one or the
other and stick with it.
2) The submission should have at least minimal documentation,
preferably in English. If complete documentation is only
available in another language, then we'll have to judge
how difficult the program is to figure out and use
without documentation.
Submission Guidelines
---------------------
* If something is clearly marked as being public domain, you
do not have to be the author to submit it.
* On files marked "Public Domain", if there is a notice about
distibution restrictions of some kind, then the author may
have misunderstood what "public domain" means and we'll try
to contact them to straighten things out and make sure they
don't have a problem with us including their stuff on the
CDROM.
(Legally speaking, once something has been released into
the public domain, the author has given up the rights to
put any restrictions on it of any kind. Free Software and
Public Domain Software aren't the same thing.)
* If something is marked as being shareware, you do not have
to be the author to submit it, but you must include all of
the appropriate files including the information on how to
contact the copyright holder so that we can contact them to
obtain permission if necessary.
* If something has a copyright notice, but is marked as being
freely distributable, you do not have to be the author to
submit it, but you must include all of the appropriate
files.
* If something has a copyright notice, and is not marked as
being shareware or as being freely distributable, before
submitting it, please send email with whatever information
is available for the program, but not the program itself.
===========================================================================
* Demo versions of commercially available software
We would like to include disabled demo versions of commercially
available software. For example, if we weren't including a fully
working version of Atari Works, we might instead include a demo
version that would let you load and edit files, but not let you
save or print (or would print with a special "DEMO VERSION" box
on top of the regular text).
We would like to concentrate on developer-oriented & power-user
software such as programming languages and utilities, program
shells, disk utilities, and so forth. However, if space
permits, we may be able to include a few more end-user oriented
demos. If you would like to make such a submission, let us know
and we'll try to get it on the disc if possible. A CDROM holds
about 600mb and while that may sound like a lot (and is!) it can
still get filled up very quickly.
It is strongly recommended that demo versions have their disabled
sections completely removed, not simply disabled. If your demo
version isn't supposed to be able to print, then take the printing
code out completely rather than simply jumping past it. If you
don't take such steps, then somebody may figure out how to
re-enable the disabled sections of the program.
===========================================================================
* Locked (password encrypted) versions of shareware and commercially
available software
To go along with the demo versions mentioned above, it would be
great if we could include actual working versions of some of
these products. Let's use Hisoft's Lattice C as an example:
Suppose that there was a demo version on the disc that would
let you create source code files up to 5K long and compile
them. But you couldn't save the files, and you could only
have 1 object module, and the resulting program would say
"COMPILED WITH DEMO VERSION OF LATTICE C" several times
whenever you ran it, and only work right if the Lattice C
integrated environment had passed it a special code on the
commandline when it ran.
Such a demo version would give the user a reasonable chance
to see the program and decide if they like it or not, but
without making the demo version useful in its own right.
So now a user sees the demo version and says "Wow, this looks
pretty cool, and I'd like to buy the real thing." So they
call up the publisher, which would be Oregon Research here in
North America, or HISOFT in the U.K. and Europe, and they say
"I have the Atari Developer CDROM and I want to purchase
Lattice C".
At this point, the publisher would take down the user's
credit card number, and say "What's the serial number for
your CDROM?" and the user would tell them, and then they
would be given a special password that can be used to install
a fully working version of the program onto their hard disk
from the CDROM. Some documentation would be included online,
and the user would get a regular set of manuals in the mail a
few days later.
This is good for the user: he gets to try out the software
before he buys it.
This is good for the publisher: you save some money because
you don't have to pay for fancy packaging, floppy disks, or
even for manuals if you can manage to get it all in online
form. You can sell the password at a discount compared with
the regular price, and still make more per package than you
normally do (since there is no distributor or dealer discount
involved).
This is good for the user: he gets to save a little money
and gets to install the software from CDROM instead of having
to do it from floppy disks.
This is good for the publisher: You've got direct advertising
of the most effective kind aimed at the users who are going to
be most interested in this kind of product.
How does it work? Will it be secure?
Each CDROM will come with a floppy disk that is serialized.
Included on this disk will be an installation program shell
that will be used to install the locked software after a user
has purchased the password. This will be something that
Atari will put together that works as follows:
The user will run the shell, and their serial number will be
displayed on screen. They'll give this number to the
publisher, and the publisher will use a special program or
spreadsheet or otherwise figure out what the password needs
to be, and give the user this password.
Now the user can tell the installation shell what they want
to install. They'll point at the desired item and then the
shell will execute an installation program that the publisher
will create. The CDROM serial number will be given to this
installation program. Then the publisher's install program
will get the password from the user and combine it with the
CDROM serial number to generate a decryption code. Then the
install program will use this code to decode and install the
program.
There's more detail here than I'm giving, but I'd rather
discuss it only with those developers who are making a
submission. I think the basic idea that's important to get
across is that it will be at least as secure as your basic
floppy disk release. Plus, the resulting installed programs
can be marked in such a way that you'd be able to figure out
the serial number from the CDROM they were installed from.
Time permitting, there will probably be an Atari supplied
installation program that is capable of working in this
fashion, and it will be made available to those developers
who are interested.
===========================================================================
For the most part, we would like to avoid the use of file-compression
utilities such as ARC, LHARC, ZOO, or ZIP. We would prefer to have
files on the CDROM in an uncompressed format that is ready to use.
(The encrypted fully working versions of commercial software would be
an exception here.)
However, if we have so many submissions that we run out of room, some
material may be placed onto the disc in an archived format. We plan to
include the various file compression utilities on the disc, however, so
the user will be able to decompress anything on the disc without needing
to get anything like a decompression program from some other source.
===========================================================================
Please keep in mind that this is a developer-oriented CDROM, not aimed
at the average end-user. There will probably be some sharp edges
to watch out for, although we'll try to make everything as easy to
figure out and use as possible.
If you want to submit an encrypted version of your software, please
contact me AS SOON AS POSSIBLE so that we can get things worked out as
early as possible.
In order to be included on the initial release of the disc, submissions
must be received before the deadlines given below. Submissions made
after the deadlines will be included if possible, but will most likely
be held over for the next update of the disc.
The deadline for all submissions except encrypted versions of commercial
programs is August 7. The deadline for encrypted versions of working
programs is August 21. The CDROM will be going to production
approximately the first week of September.
If there is some special reason you cannot make either deadline, please
contact me as soon as possible so that we can make special arrangements
if possible.
Your Submissions Are Welcome!
Send submissions, questions, comments, etc. to Mike Fulton at:
Mailing Address: EMAIL:
Atari Corp. GEnie = MIKE-FULTON
Attn: Mike Fulton Delphi = ATARITECH
1196 Borregas Ave. Compuserve = 75300,1141
Sunnyvale, CA 94089 Internet = 75300.1141@compuserve.com
Atari BBS (408) 745-2196 (Log on with
name of "Atari Dev1" and use "DEVONE"
for password, send email to "Mike
Fulton". You won't be able to read
messages or download files with this
account, but you can upload and send me
email.)
--==--==--==--==--
||| Developing Notes
||| Important items from TOS platform developers and supporters
/ | \ ---------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
//// Photo Show Now Shipping
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
We will be shipping the first Photo CD application for the Atari
Falcon series of computers starting Monday, July 26.
Photo Show for the Falcon makes use of the built in true color
graphics, built in SCSI-2 port, and built-in CD quality sound
recording and playback capabilities of the Atari Falcon.
Graphics can be viewed directly from the Kodak Photo CD disc or
scripted into custom slide shows that allow you to mix graphics and
sound into a multimedia presentation. Presentations can be played in a
continuous loop.
Three professional quality sound loops are included with the program
to get you started.
Presentations can be recorded to VCR without additional cards. All
you need is a RCA type cable. Shows can be viewed on RGB, VGA, or
broadcast monitors with the outputs built into the basic Atari Falcon.
The export module included with Photo Show will allow the exporting of
true-color images in 24 bit TIF, 24 bit EPS, 24 bit RGB data, or 16
bit RGB data.
A SCSI-2 MultiTOS CD rom driver is included with Photo Show. The
driver can read both Photo CD's XA format and standard 9660 CD rom
discs.
Photo Show retails for $35.00. Ask at your favorite dealer.
For more information write It's All Relative, 2233 Keeven Lane,
Florissant MO 63031.
Voice: (314) 831-9482
GEnie / Delphi: GREG
CIS: 70357,2312
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
//// Seurat Upgrade Available
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
SEURAT is the Atari graphics program that pioneered any-sized virtual-
screen buffers for multiple images in B&W and COLOR, offering the same
powerful functions for COLOR IMAGES that you expect to find only in
top mono programs. Supports 16 file formats. New BitCamera enlarges,
reduces and re-proportions images. New Clip and Page functions:
Rotate, Flip, Invert, Crop, Cut, Paste, Overlay, Copy using whole
images of any size, permitting multiple horizontal and vertical
image-merging that no merge program can. SCANNER Support! Loads
PageStream Fonts (& Degas, GDOS fonts).
SEURAT has been and will remain the most full-featured Atari Art
program with more than 400 functions. EVERY purchaser of SEURAT V2.8
is guaranteed free upgrade to SEURAT V3.0, for all resolutions and
video modes on all Atari's, including Falcon 256-color & TrueColor
modes. Price $59.95.
NOTE: SEURAT V3.0 will support the TrueColor export file formats of
Photo Show by It's All Relative, giving you the power to edit and
rework your Kodak Photo CD images!
SKWare One also produces COLORSCAN, which converts mono scanned
images in- to color pictures (in ten formats). Runs on all Ataris
(Falcon- compatible). COLORSCAN II for 256-color video modes is in
final development now. Free Upgrade guarantee with purchase of
Colorscan I. Price $59.95.
Check, money order, MC/VISA accepted.
SKWare One
P. O. Box 277
Bunker Hill, Illinois 62014-0277
USA
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
//// Processor Direct Update
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Promotional brochures on Processor Direct magazine are ready for
distribution, which contains many details on the magazine, and also
has a little panel to send in and subscribe. The brochures are
available to anyone who wants one, and if you have a few friends or
belong to a user's group, we can send as many as you may need.
P-Direct is very close to annoucing user group bulk subscriptions
which will allow user groups with more than 5 subscribers to Processor
Direct to recieve a discount, up to 40% off the regular subscription
rate depending on the quantity. To receive brochures, simply GEmail
your address and how many brochures you would like to P-DIRECT, and
the brochure(s) will be mailed as soon as possible.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
//// Calamus Owners Update
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
DMC Publishing is pleased to announce a new upgrade to Calamus SL. The
overall performance of Calamus SL has been dramatically improved. In
addition, we are very happy with the significant features that have
now been activated as well as the new features and modules that we are
including.
The new version of Calamus SL will include the following:
1. An upgraded Text Module which now includes both an activated Anchor
Frame function and an activated Leader Tab function that allows the
use of any character as your assigned Leader Tab character. The module
also includes an improved Spellchecker and separate Hyphenation
dictionaries, improved Vertical Text Alignment and improved M-Space
handling. New features include the ability to insert and search
Comments, manual kerning, inserting text style and text ruler
information.
2. The new ROTATE.CXM module now gives us the ability to rotate
Raster Graphics in any degree with or without anti-aliasing. This
means that if you rotate a graphic that has straight lines,
anti-aliasing will smoothen the settings and remove stepping.
3. The new COL_CONV.CXM Color List Converter module generates a color
list from graphics that have been imported from Outline Art and other
sources. It can also generate a list from free colors designed within
the existing document.
4. The new COMPRESS.CXM is a compression module designed to save you
storage space by compressing bitmap images within your document. Note:
Calamus documents, CDK's, saved with compressed bitmap images using
this module, will automatically uncompress those images when the
document is reloaded into Calamus SL.
5. The new CYMKSWAP.CXM module swaps color planes.
6. The new LIN.CXM Linearity module allows you to set color values
optimised for your particular printer. This module will be of special
interest to those of you with an HP550C for example.
7. The RASTGEN.CXM Raster Generator module has been upgraded to
include the ability to set Raster caches.
8. New drivers that will be enclosed with this upgrade for Calamus SL
include: GEMIMG export, CVG export, a RAW import driver for bit
planes, an improved TIFF driver, an improved TARGA driver, an RPS
driver for Repro Studio and an improved GEM Metafile driver.
9. Set Layout/Working Area has seen some major changes. The automatic
generation of both registration marks and crop marks is now activated,
as are color plane names, double-page overlap, user definable settings
and master page printing.
10. The new selectable document option, added as the far right
pull-down menu, now allows you to click on the document you wish to
access from the displayed list of all documents present in memory.
There are other new modules expected shortly, but we've decided not to
wait. All of the above are ready in-house and available for shipping
right now. Look for a further press release in the not to distant
future announcing the release of at least 4 new modules.
The cost for all of the above, the latest and much improved Calamus SL
as well as all of the new modules: ROTATE.CXM, COL_CONV.CXM,
COMPRESS.CXM, CYMKSWAP.CXM, LIN.CXM, the upgraded TEXT.CXM, the
upgraded RAS_GEN.CXM, the upgraded Set Layout/Working Area, the new
Select Document and the new import/export drivers, on 3 disks, is US
$75.00 or $95.00 CDN which includes shipping and insurance.
Prices and configurations are subject to change without notice.
//// ORDERING
For further information or to order by telephone using your VISA or
Mastercard please call DMC Publishing at VOICE 416-479-1880 or FAX
416-479-1882.
If you have a modem, you may order by private email using your
Mastercard or VISA at:
GEnie email to: ISD or POTECHIN
Compuserve email to: 76004,2246
Delphi email to: ISDMARKETING
Internet email to: POTECHIN@GENIE.GEIS.COM
Payment may also be made by check or money order and mailed to the
following address:
DMC Publishing, Inc.,
2800 John Street, Suite 10
Markham, Ontario,
Canada L3R 0E2
Please include your Calamus serial number when placing any order.
Ontario residents add 8% PST., Canadian residents add 7% GST..
Thank you for your interest in our Calamus products and please do not
hesitate to contact us if you require any further information.
Sincerely
Nathan Potechin
DMC Publishing
//// More on Calamus SL
I just came across this post by Lou that I thought I'd share with you
as it is pertinent to today's Press Release:
Topic 20 Mon Sep 09, 1991
ISD [Nathan] at 17:55 EDT
Sub: Calamus SL
Category 16, Topic 20
Message 110 Wed Jul 14, 1993
ST.LOU [Lou] at 19:27 EDT
Being a beta-tester has its pros and cons. On the pro side, one has
the opportunity to see all the latest developments on a favorite piece
of software and, occasionally, to suggest changes and improvements.
On the con side, one is not able to share confidential information
with the general userbase, some of whom are close friends, as well as
knowledgable colleagues. Over the last few weeks I have had the
opportunity to see a good number of the new developments for Calamus
SL and now, finally, I can begin to tell you what is going to be
available very shortly.
To begin with, please read the Press Release that Nathan just posted
here... or pick up a copy from the Library as soon as it is available.
The PR covers a number of items which are new, as well as some
features we have long been awaiting.
Without further ado, I am pleased to share some observations on the
newly-available upgrade for Calamus SL.
(This is going to be a long post :-)
(1) Leader Tabs work beautifully and, along with the sticky tab
feature, you can create professional-looking lists using any available
font character (or bullet) as the leader character. A picture might
be easier :-)
Frame Module ....................... 9
Page Module ....................... 12
Text Module ....................... 17
In the editor it would look like this:
Frame Module 9[TAB]
Page Module 12[TAB]
Text Module 17[TAB]
If you wished, you could replace the "." with the "_" underscore, or
any other character available in the current font.
(2) Index and Footnote Entry are now working with completely
functional updating using the REFORMAT DOCUMENT function. You can now
create footnote and endnote frames on any page; you can also create
index frames that hold original page numbers and which can be updated
when you reformat your document. This is a really professional feature
that is highly configurable and it is finally working properly!
(3) In MISCELLANEOUS SETTINGS, the Frame Cache functions have been
optimized for speed and you can now configure them too! Caches are
only created if a user-definable percentage of the selected frame type
is visible. This really speeds up cache creation when working at high
zoom factors. In the same dialog box you can choose to save the caches
with your CDK!
(4) You can now insert a COMMENT in your text. The comment window
looks like any a regular editor window and you can store non-printing
remarks about your work for your own reference. You can also search
those comments for any text string located in the comment!
(5) The dictionary functions have been separated and the alerts are
much clearer. Two sets of icons exist for the loading, saving, editing
and using _both_ the spellchecking and hyphenation functions.
(6) Frame Anchors work now and you can lock any type of frame
(including grouped frames) to a control code inserted at the cursor
point. Once done, the anchored frame moves along with the text as your
document reformats due to text or style changes.
(7) Marking text blocks has been made easier than ever! Using a series
of quick mouse-clicks you can mark a single word, a complete line, a
complete paragraph or the entire text chain!
1 click - places the cursor (and does not affect any block)
2 clicks - marks the word under the cursor
3 clicks - marks the line under the cursor
4 clicks - marks the paragraph under the cursor
5 clicks - marks the entire text chain
(8) The Set Layout/Working Area dialog now functions completely and
even allows you to print the master page to check crop and
registration marks by themselves. This function is described in your
manual [5.4.1.6] but additional features have been added:
<=> A guideline appears to show the amount of overlap.
<=> You can define the line thickness of crop marks and the maximum
size of registration marks.
<=> There is a neat feature that allows the registration marks to
proportionally resize according the size of the crop marks (which is
regulated by your choice of margin settings).
Please note that these LAYOUT features are only functional if you
click on the new LAYOUT button at the bottom of the Print Document
dialog.
(9) Changing view modes was always a pain because you were presented
with the x=0, y=0 display. If you were zooming in to a USER
magnification, this meant having to scroll around the window to find
the frame you wanted to work on. Now changing views will always
display the same center point as the last view!
(10) Minimum borders as defined by your printer driver now have
rounded corners which makes it easier to assign borders on double
pages.
(11) When you turn off the display of any frame's contents, the frame
is filled with a large X. This way it is easier to discern empty
frames from invisible ones. It also makes it a lot easier to work on
your document by turning off unneeded frame displays to reduce redraw
times!
(12) In the System Parameters module you can now select the TOS file
selector. This means that fans of UIS and LGF can have access to their
favorite file selectors and their myriad functions!
(13) For you lucky Falcon owners there is an AUTO program called to
improve your screen displays.
(14) A new drop-down menu item shows a list of all loaded documents.
You can click on any filename and it becomes the top window. (Don't
forget that you can also cycle through documents using Control + Left
Click on the window's Close Button.)
(15) As for new modules, I think you will all enjoy the ROTATE module.
It effectively removes the 90 degree limitation when rotating raster
graphics. Its special anti-aliasing feature also creates picture
perfect rotations of your graphics.... look ma, no jaggies! This
little module also has an internal masking feature which automatically
resizes your rotated frame to contain all contents.
(16) The COL_CONV.CXM will capture all unlisted colors in your
document and create the appropriate RGB equivalent on your color list.
For example, when you import a color CVG from Outline Art 3.0, the
colors do not show on any color list. Click this module and your
graphic's colors are added to the list. From there you can click the
color square of any color in the list and convert all values to CYMK,
or other color systems in the SET COLOR/FILL PATTERN dialog box.
The other use of this module is to capture any Free Colors in your
document. The Free Color is the first color at the top of every color
list. It is possible to have a different Free Color in each list. This
module captures and lists them all on all lists - automatically!
(17) COMPRESS.CXM is a transparent module. You can use it to compress
the data from any picture frame or from all pictures in your document
to save disk space. This is very useful for some of those huge color
graphics! Another nice feature is the fact that pictures are
automatically decompressed when you load your document!
Well, I am sure I missed something but I can always post again later
:-) There are also a few other goodies but I can't say anything about
them right now :-) Hopefully they will be ready to discuss in the near
future. In the meantime I would be most happy to discuss any of the
items presented above.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
//// ATARI UNITED! Announced
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
In response to a growing demand for a centralized information source
regarding users, vendors, and developers, several Atari TOS computer
owners have formed ATARI UNITED! to fill that need. As the Atari
market has gone through a period of decline in recent years, many
Atari computer owners have found themselves out of touch with the
remaining Atari community. That has created a widespread problem of
isolated Atari users, who have little contact with other Atari users,
or with the developers and vendors who could best help them with their
software and hardware needs. ATARI UNITED! has been organized to end
that isolation, and bring the Atari community closer together.
//// User Group Support
The first task ATARI UNITED! faces is the creation of a single,
comprehensive database of all Atari TOS computer owners, vendors and
developers. A progressively more aggressive outreach campaign will
begin with contacting every known Atari User Group in the USA and
soliciting their members to register with ATARI UNITED!. From that
foundation, ATARI UNITED! will work with those user groups to build
their memberships through the use of inexpensive advertising and
marketing techniques. That relationship between ATARI UNITED! and the
user groups will be developed into a basic network for the two-way
flow of information and news. The Atari User Groups have always been
a rich source of expertise and talent, and ATARI UNITED! wants to
insure that such a resource is maintained.
//// Confidentiality Assured
As the database grows, ATARI UNITED! will offer its information to the
developer and vendor communities for use in better reaching the user
community. That information will, however, not be sold. The
confidentiality of the user community will not be compromised by
allowing the data to leave the direct control of ATARI UNITED!.
Vendors and developers will be required to provide ATARI UNITED! with
prestamped mailing materials. ATARI UNITED! will then afix the
specified labels and mail them. Additionally, when an Atari TOS
computer owner registers with ATARI UNITED!, they will have the option
of having their information witheld from any external marketing
efforts.
//// Disk Magazine Planned
ATARI UNITED! plans to issue a quarterly disk-based magazine, with
press releases, program reviews and previews, program demos and as
much other information as will fit on the disk. Individuals who wish
to receive the disk magazine will be charged a minimal subscription
fee. As the Atari market grows in response to wider distribution of
the Atari Falcon030, it is expected that future issues of the disk
magazine will occassionally be multi-disk issues.
//// Future Expansion
Other projects for ATARI UNITED! are in the discussion stages, but
future plans may possibly include the establishment of a User Feedback
service, where members will be given an opportunity to provide
feedback to companies in the Atari community by participating in
nationwide surveys. In addition, ATARI UNITED! is investigating a 24
hour hotline for members interested in locating users groups, dealers,
developers or even other individual users in any specific area of the
country.
//// Focus
The overall focus for ATARI UNITED! will be to locate and bring support
to the isolated owner, and to build a network for the mutual support of
Atari user groups across the USA. ATARI UNITED! intends to have the
ability to provide Atari Corporation, Atari dealers and Atari developers
with solid information about Atari users, to help them better meet the
needs of the the Atari community.
Atari TOS computer owners who wish to register individually with ATARI
UNITED! may do so by contacting their local user group, or by sending
the following information to:
ATARI UNITED!
P.O. Box 691
Mountain View, CA 94042-0691
If your local user group has not been contacted by us, please give them
this news release and encourage your officers to register the group with
us to benefit from our growing network!
ATARI UNITED! fully encourages all Atari computer owners to join a local
user group. There is nothing like local support!
Name (Last, First, MI): _________________________________________
Mailing Address: _________________________________________
_________________________________________
City, State, Zip: _________________________________________
Computer Model: ___ 520 ST ___ 520 STe ___ TT
___ 1040 ST ___ 1040 STe ___ F030
___ Mega ST ___ Mega STe
Computer Serial Number: _________________________________________
User Group (if a member):_________________________________________
For further information, contact:
Patti Barbiero Gordie Meyer
P.O. Box 691 P.O. Box 1982
Mountain View, CA 94042-0691 or Ames, IA 50010-1982
(415) 903-9787 (515) 232-1627
abarbiero@delphi.com biblinski@delphi.com
--==--==--==--==--
|||
||| Shutdown ............................ Power off, EXIT, BYE, Logoff
/ | \ ------------------------------------------------------------------
My trusty old TOS 1.0 1040STF system seems stable enough for now; I
really shouldn't complain, but boy do I miss the goodies available on
my TT030! After spending several days without any computer, getting
to know my 1040 again is just like coming home. To all of you who
have sending me EMail from around the world, thanks. I'll take a day
or so this week to get back to you! Sorry for the delay!
We welcome feedback from all of our readers; feedback both positive
and negative. Whatever you think of our efforts, we sincerely would
like to know. Our EMail addresses are sprinkled throughout each
issue - with the new Internet gateway into GEnie, you can reach us
through the Internet also. Append "@genie.geis.com" to any of our
GEnie addresses.
Until the next issue of AEO, I remain,
Your Editor
Travis Guy
Internet: aeo.mag@genie.geis.com
--==--==--==--==--
(This issue printed on recycled photons)
--==--==--==--==--
DNFTEC
--==--==--==--==--
Atari Explorer Online Magazine is a bi-weekly publication covering the
Atari computer community. Material published in this issue may be
reprinted under the following terms only: articles must remain unedited
and include the issue number and author at the top of each article
reprinted. Reprint permission is granted, unless otherwise noted at the
beginning of the article, to registered Atari user groups and not for
profit publications. Opinions presented herein are those of the individual
authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the staff, or of the
publishers.
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Atari, ST, Mega ST, STE, Mega STE, TT030, Atari Falcon030, TOS,
MultiTOS, NewDesk, BLiTTER, Atari Lynx, Atari Jaguar, Atari Portfolio,
and the Atari Fuji Symbol are all trademarks or registered trademarks
of Atari Corporation. All other trademarks mentioned in this issue
belong to their respective owners.
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Atari Explorer Online Magazine
"Your Only Independent Atari Online"
Copyright (c) 1993, Subspace Publishers
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:: Volume 2 - Issue 13 ATARI EXPLORER ONLINE 26 July 1993 ::
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