Copy Link
Add to Bookmark
Report
Z*NET Online Magazine Issue 92-05
| (((((((( | Z*Net International Atari Online Magazine
| (( | -----------------------------------------
| (( | January 31, 1992 Issue #92-05
| (( | -----------------------------------------
| (((((((( | Copyright (c)1992, Rovac Industries, Inc.
| | Post Office Box 59, Middlesex, NJ 08846
| (( |
| (((((( | CONTENTS
| (( |
| | * The Editors Desk............................Ron Kovacs
| ((( (( | * Z*Net Newswire........................................
| (((( (( | * 30 Secrets of Atari........................Steve Bloom
| (( (( (( | * Perusing GEnie...............................Ed Krimen
| (( (((( | * The Top Palmtops..........................David Hayden
| (( ((( | * Transferring Data Between MAC and PortFolio...........
| | * The Future of Computing.....................Jeff Payne
| ((((((( | * The Software Shelf......................Ron Berinstein
| (( |
| ((((( |
| (( |
| ((((((( | ~ Publisher/Editor............................Ron Kovacs
| | ~ Contributing Editor..........................John Nagy
| (((((((( | ~ Z*Net Newswire Ltd..........................Jon Clarke
| (( | ~ Contributing Editor.....................Bruce Hansford
| (( | ~ PD Software Reviews.....................Ron Berinstein
| (( | ~ Reporter....................................Mike Brown
| (( | ~ Assistant News Editor.......................Mike Davis
| | ~ Z*Net Canadian Correspondent...........Terry Schreiber
| | ~ Columnist....................................Ed Krimen
| | ~ Columnist................................Mike Mortilla
| |
|----------| $ GEnie Address....................................Z-NET
| ONLINE | $ CompuServe Address..........................75300,1642
| AREAS | $ Delphi Address....................................ZNET
| | $ Internet/Usenet Address..................status.gen.nz
|----------| $ America Online Address........................ZNET1991
| |
| Z*NET | * Z*Net:USA New Jersey...(FNET 593).......(908) 968-8148
| SUPPORT | * Z*Net:Golden Gate......(FNET 706).......(510) 373-6792
| SYSTEMS | * Z*Net:South Pacific....(FNET 693).NZ....(644) 4762-852
| | * Z*Net:Pacific .(INTERNET/@status.gen.nz)(649) 3585-543
| | * Z*Net:South Jersey.....(FNET 168).CCBBS.(609) 451-7475
| | * Z*Net:Illinois (Garage)(FNET 621).......(618) 344-8466
| | * Z*Net:Colorado (Mile High)(FNET 5)......(303) 431-1404
| | * Z*Net:Wyoming (Stormbringer)(FNET 635)..(307) 638-7036
| | * Z*Net:Florida (Twilight Zone)(FNET 304).(407) 831-1613
| | Fido Address 1:363/112
=======================================================================
* EDITORS DESK by Ron Kovacs
=======================================================================
I want to welcome Mike Mortilla to the staff this week. Mike will be
focusing his soon to start weekly columns on CompuServe with the
"Perusing CompuServe" in a couple of weeks. Mike can be reached on
CompuServe at 75300,1642.
Delphi users should be aware of a little known bug in financing the
service called "workspace". As many Delphi users may be aware, you are
charged a fee for storing files in your private workspace. This area
stores files you upload and then transfer later for inclusion in the
download areas.
If you fail to remove these files, you incur a charge or storage fee
until these files are deleted. You don't even have to call regularly
to incur a charge. For more information, check your workspace today
and delete those files. On a personal note however, I feel this is
a practice that should be changed and all workspace files should be
automatically deleted after the file is published or moved into an area
for later downloading.
=======================================================================
* Z*NET NEWSWIRE
=======================================================================
ATARI PRODUCT ANNOUNCEMENT AT BCS
The Boston Computer Society meeting of April 22, 1992, will feature a
special presentation and announcement of new hardware from Atari
Corporation. Although the world will see Atari's new hardware first at
the CeBIT show in Hannover, Germany, March 10-16, the BCS appearance
will be the first US showing of what may or may NOT be the much rumored
"Falcon" 68040 computer. According to Atari officials, a series of new
computers will be introduced, one at a time, at computer events
throughout 1992. The plan is NOT to use Atari-specific shows as a
venue, as much more overall industry expose will result in making the
announcements at multi-brand events. The Boston Computer Society is a
large and prestigious club with an active Atari contingent, and has been
the venue for major product announcements by IBM and NeXT computer
companies in the past. Atari made its own premier of the ST computer at
a BCS meeting in 1985, and expects its new computers to cause as much of
an industry stir as the revolutionary ST did seven years ago. Z*Net
will offer more details of the meeting date and location in the coming
weeks.
ST INFORMER PUBLISHES, NEW FORMAT
Late last week, the January issue of the troubled ST INFORMER magazine
began arriving at dealers and subscribers. Now in a newsprint-with-
color book format similar to AtariUser magazine, publisher and now
editor Rod Macdonald has enlisted the aid of Brian Gockley on the East
coast, Donovan Vicha covering the central USA, and Robert Goff in the
West, as principal contributors. The January ST Informer issue was
delayed due to the departure of the editor and key staff people some
weeks ago, and the new issue shows signs of hasty assembly. In his
"Potpourri" editor's page, Macdonald pledges no ad rate increases for
1992, and promises expanded news and European coverage. Meanwhile,
splinter magazine ATARI ADVANTAGE is readying for a premier, perhaps in
March, and AtariUser magazine is preparing for the added competition in
the Atari magazine marketplace with plans for aggressive sales under a
new rate structure.
ATARI EXPLORER FEB AND JANUARY ISSUES RELEASED
In a surprise move, Atari Corporation's own magazine, Atari Explorer,
actually released copies of their February 1992 issues BEFORE the
January 1992 issue. The February issue was a special MIDI issue,
including a mini-magazine inside called ATARI ARTIST. Since the
National Association of Music Merchants' show came at the end of
January, and the MIDI and musician coverage was to have been timed for
release to the crowds at NAMM, the February issue was pushed out in
front of the delayed January issue. Confused yet? Explorer editor John
Jainschigg was heard talking about coverage in the January issue and the
publication schedule during the NAMM show: "We will soon be including
that in our previous issue... our NEW issue will be LAST month's issue,
so our NEXT issue will be the one AFTER this one..." Atari Explorer is
officially a bi-monthly publication, but has recently had monthly issues
in order to catch up after major delays in production during 1991.
VENTURE SOFTWARE SHIPS PUBLISHER
Ventura announced shipment of Ventura Publisher 4.0, Windows Edition on
January 16. Version 4.0 is the latest upgrade to the desktop publishing
package. Ventura Publisher now includes client support for Object
Linking and Embedding (OLE) of Windows 3.0 applications. It also
features enhanced color support, including PANTONE's 700 spot color and
3,000 process color palettes. VP 4.0, Windows Edition is available at a
suggested retail price of $795. Registered users of any previous
Ventura Publisher DOS/GEM or Windows Edition can upgrade for $129.
ERICSSON UNVEILS WIRELESS MODEM
Ericsson GE Tuesday has unveiled the Mobidem, the first mass market
portable wireless modem. The Mobidem provides two-way wireless data
communications connectivity for palmtop, notebook, and laptop computers
as well as industrial hand held terminals. Weighing less than one pound
and housed in rugged plastic with flexible, fold-down antenna, the
Mobidem has a list price of $1795.
NEW PRINTER FROM OKIDATA
Okidata announced its new printer for data processing, factory
automation, industrial and demanding office printing applications -- the
Pacemark 3410. The PM3410, list priced at $1,999, is a reliable, high-
speed 9-pin printer designed for heavy-duty high-volume applications.
It works in stand-alone or multi-user environments utilizing PCs,
workstations and mini- and mainframe computers. Okidata also announced
the Microline 184 Turbo, a high-performance 9-pin demand document
printer designed to tackle tough printing applications. The ML184T is
list priced at $359.
COMPAQ LAUNCHES BATTERY RECYCLING PROGRAM
Compaq has introduced the first PC battery pack recycling program.
Through this program, which begins immediately and is offered free to
all Compaq customers, the company will work with users to help them
safely recycle the rechargeable batteries used in COMPAQ laptop and
notebook PCs. As part of the Recycling Program, depleted batteries are
sent to a recycling facility with a permit from the EPA that is equipped
to safely recycle the waste batteries. Reusable metals from the battery
packs are conserved and sold by the facility to manufacturers for use in
the production of new products. Customers who choose to participate in
the program can call Compaq toll-free at 800-524-9859 and receive a pre-
addressed, postage-paid battery mailer, which is directly forwarded to
the recycling facility. The program is available to users of all Compaq
laptop and notebook PCs, including the Compaq LTE Lite/25 and the Compaq
LTE Lite/20 high-performance, lightweight notebooks.
QMS UNVEILS LASER PRINTER
QMS has announced the QMS-PS 1700 printer, a 17 page-per-minute, RISC-
based, 600 dpi network laser printer. The QMS-PS 1700 printer connects
directly to the backbone of either Ethernet or Token Ring networks.
This direct attachment to the network dramatically increases print
speeds and allows users to place the printer at the most convenient
location along the network. The printer has a suggested U.S. list price
of $7,995 and is scheduled to begin shipping Jan. 27.
COMMODORE REPORTS EARNINGS
Commodore reported earnings of $40.1 million, or $1.18 per share on
sales of $371.6 million for the second fiscal quarter ended Dec. 31,
1991. This compares with earnings of $36.5 million, or $1.12 per share
on sales of $384.1 million in the year-ago quarter. Earnings per share
of $1.18 in the December quarter were based on diluted average
outstanding shares of 34 million vs. 32.4 million in the prior year.
Net sales declined 3 percent for the quarter, due entirely to the
adverse impact of foreign currency fluctuations. Unit sales of the
Amiga line increased 21 percent while C64 sales experienced nominal
growth. Sales of the Professional PC line and CDTV combined to offset
volume declines related to the discontinued low-end MS-DOS range.
BORLAND ANNOUNCES CONFERENCE
In an attempt to better support software developers using their
microcomputer languages products, Borland invites microcomputer
developers to join fellow developers at a conference that will shed
light on today's technologies and take a look at future development
directions. "Visions: Interactive education for the '90s", is a 4-day
developer conference sponsored by Borland to be held April 12-15 1992 at
the Monterey (CA) Convention center. Among the events planned for this
conference: Tutorials covering "Introduction to Object-Oriented
Programming (OOP)", "C++", "Turbo Pascal for Windows", "Object-Oriented
Design" and "ObjectVision". Four days of advanced training in OOP, C++
Pascal and Visual programming. Presentations on the latest Borland
Strategy and future directions from Philippe Kahn, Rick Shell and Gene
Wang. Presentations on development tools and strategies from
representatives of IBM, Intel, Novell and Microsoft. Casino night,
Exhibits, Vendor Reception, Visions Theme dinner, Computer Lab and game
room. Over 60 breakout sessions organized into technical tracks: "C++
Programming, "Pascal Programming", "End-User Programming", "Management
and Design" and "Systems and Software". All registered attendees will
get a carry-all bag, complete conference proceedings, binder, pen,
notepad and a free Borland language product. Special events planned for
the conference include the: "Development Shoot-Out" sponsored by PC
Week Magazine; Attendees use the tools of their choice to build an
application specified by columnist Peter Coffee. Work on the
applications will begin in a special lab on Monday Morning and continue
around the clock with completion Tuesday at 5pm. Peter Coffee will
judge each effort and use the info as part of his Wednesday morning
talk. Winners will be announced at the closing session with prizes
awarded. "Best Hacks" sponsored by PC Techniques magazine; Attendees
are encouraged to bring their best hacks and win prizes. The hacks will
be given to Jeff Duntemann, Editor in Chief of PC Techniques. During
the conference, Jeff, along with a panel, will choose the winners and
award prizes during the closing session. Winning hacks will be
published in PC Techniques. For registration or additional information
on the conference, call 800-942-8872 (voice) or 203-261-3884 (fax).
- Mike Brown
=======================================================================
* 30 SECRETS OF ATARI by Steve Bloom
=======================================================================
(c)1983 Carnegie Publications Corp.
(c)1987, 1989 Public Domain media
[Author's note: Here presents information I had compiled through
research and interviews with people from Atari, Inc. (a.k.a. the "old"
Atari)]
While I wrote this article back in 1983, I felt that much of the
information would be still interesting today. What is presented here is
not an exhaustive list. I used only the information I felt was not
common knowledge and some insight on others. Because the magazine that
originally published this, Computer Games, (February 1984) is no longer
in circulation, I felt that in the best interest of all that I re-
acquire publication rights. This is why I have placed this in the
public domain for everyone to enjoy. The entire article is unabridged
and unchanged from the original published format.
Steve Bloom,
May 29, 1989.
30 SECRETS OF ATARI:
The real story of Asteroids, Space Invaders, Pac-Man, Pong, and Pole
Position.
FORWARD
In its 11-year history, Atari has become one of the biggest, flashy,
most influential companies in history. They have had their share of
incredible successes and embarrassing failures. Perhaps more than
anything else, they have had their secrets.
Atari is very tight-lipped. At one point employees were asked to sign
confidentiality agreements and use magnetic ID cards to walk through the
company's corridors. Aside from the actual cartridges, the public
learns little about Atari's games and the people who created them.
Until now. We have interviewed dozens of employees of the company, past
and present. We have guaranteed them complete anonymity in exchange
for a tip, an insight, a never-before-heard anecdote. From these
interviews, we have compiled the following secrets of Atari, which are
published here for the first time.
1. Nolan Bushnell, Atari's founding father, originally named the
company Syzygy (the sun, moon, and earth in total eclipse). He
renamed it to Atari because another company already owned the name
Syzygy.
2. Bushnell is generally believed to be the author of Pong, Atari's
first game. Actually, Magnavox released the Odyssey 100, the first
home video game system, which included a game remarkably similar to
Pong, several months before Pong's debut in the arcades in 1972.
Years later, Bushnell admitted in court that he had seen an Odyssey
prototype on display earlier in 1972. The Odyssey 100 was designed
by Ralph Baer.
3. Bally/Midway rejected Bushnell's Pong when he demonstrated the game
in its Chicago offices in 1972. Bushnell went back to California
and started Atari.
4. Given a choice between Mappy and Pole Position, two arcade creations
by the Japanese firm Namco, Bally/Midway amazingly opted for Mappy.
Atari had to settle for Pole Position, which went on to become the
biggest game of 1983.
5. Gravitar was one of Atari's worst-selling arcade games. So they
took the game out of the cabinets and converted them all to Black
Widow.
6. Mike Hally designed Gravitar. He recently redeemed himself as the
project leader for Atari's spectacular Star Wars game.
7. Rick Mauer never programmed another game for Atari after he did
Space Invaders for the VCS. He is said to have earned only $11,000
for a game that grossed more than $100 million.
8. Todd Fry, on the other hand, has collected close to $1 million in
royalties for his widely criticized VCS Pac-Man.
9. The man for bringing Pac-Man home to Atari- Joe Robbins, former
president of coin-op- was severely reprimanded by the chairman of
the board Ray Kassar for making the deal with Namco without
consulting him. It seems Robbins was in Japan negotiating a legal
matter with Namco at the time, and Namco demanded that Atari buy the
home rights to Pac-Man as part of the settlement. Pac-Man had yet
to take off, but when it did, Robbin's gutsy decision paid off as
Pac-Man went on to become the company's best-selling cartridge ever.
10. The man for bringing E.T. to Atari? None other than Warner
Communications chairman, Steve Ross. So convinced was he that E.T.
possessed video game star quality, Ross paid Steven Spielberg an
enormous sum (did I hear $21 million?) for the rights to the little
extraterrestrial bugger. Designer Howie Warshaw spun the game out
in four months, only three million cartridges were sold and Atari
began to announce million dollar losses. E.T. is now selling for as
little as $5 in some stores.
11. Warshaw also designed Raiders of the Lost Ark cartridge, and Yar's
Revenge, which started out as a licensed version of the arcade game,
Star Castle. "Yar" is "Ray" Kassar backwards.
12. One of Atari's most popular early arcade game was Tank, only it
didn't say Atari anywhere on the cabinet or screen. Instead, it
said "Kee Games," which was another name for Atari from 1973-78.
Atari and Kee (named after Joe Keenan, Bushnell's longtime partner)
put out identical games in order to create more business for Atari.
For instance, Spike (Kee) and Rebound (Atari) were volleyball games
that came out a month apart in 1974.
13. Tank was designed by Steve Bristow, who is still with the company
after all these years. Most recently, he has been in charge of
Ataritel, Atari's telecommunications project which had been
code named, "Falcon."
14. Code-names have always been popular at Atari. The VCS was "Stella,"
the 400 computer was "Candy," the 800 was "Colleen," the 5200 was
"Pam." All were named after well-endowed female employees working
at Atari (except for Stella, which was a bicycle trade name).
15. And there was "Sylvia," the 5200 that never was. Pam, as everyone
by now knows, was a stripped down 400 computer for the sole purpose
of game playing. Sylvia was intended to be Atari's answer to
Intellivision and was in the works long before Pam was born. But
problems developed largely because the 5200 was projected to be
compatible with VCS software, which limited the design of the
hardware. When push finally came to shove, Sylvia went out the
window, and Pam walked in the door.
16. Cosmos, Atari's experiment with holography, was a battery-operated
game system that was introduced at a New York press conference in
the spring of 1980. Created by Al Alcorn, Cosmos was never to be
seen again.
17. Alcorn was the first engineer hired by Nolan Bushnell. His first
project was Pong. His second project was Space Race, the forerunner
to Frogger.
18. Another project announced was a remote-control VCS. Since it was
wireless, you could play games at 30 feet without having to hassle
with the console. It too mysteriously disappeared from Atari's
catalogue. (Note: it looked almost exactly like the 5200).
19. Nobody in Atari coin-op liked Dig-Dug, the company's first Japanese
import, except for Brian McGhie, now with Starpath. It was McGhie
who added the finishing touches to Dig Dug. His latest game is
Rabbit Transit.
20. Quantum and Food Fight were not designed by Atari. They were the
work of General Computer Corp. of Cambridge, Massachusetts. GCC
broke into the business selling kits that would speed-up Missile
Command. Atari sued and settled with GCC for the above mentioned
games.
21. Tempest was originally intended to be a first-person Space Invaders
-type game. Then Dave Theurer came up with idea for tubes on the
screen. Theurer also designed Missile Command.
22. The first 200 Asteroid machines were actually Lunar Landers. Atari
was so hot on Asteroids, that it cut short the production run on
Lunar Lander- Atari's first vector game- and released the 200
complete with Lunar Lander art.
23. Asteroids had two incarnations before it achieved its spectacular
success. The first, Planet Grab, simply required you to claim
planets by touching them with your spaceship. The second version,
allowed you to blow up the planets and duel with another ship,
Space-Wars style. Only in Asteroids, which came along two years
later, did Atari engineer Lyle Rains introduce the concept of
floating rocks.
24. Many at Atari, past and present, dispute Rains' claim that he was
solely responsible for Asteroids. Ed Logg, who programmed it, and
who also had his hand at the design of Centipede and Millipede, is
said to be the true mastermind behind Asteroids.
25. One of Ed Logg's game that has never been released in the arcades is
called Maze Invaders.
26. Battlezone Ed Rotberg left Atari after he was forced to convert his
favorite game to Army specifications. Dubbed the MK-60 by the Army,
it included 30 game variations, improved steering and magnification,
and simulations of Russian and American tanks. It sold for $30,000.
27. Rotberg joined two other Atari engineers, Howard Delman and Roger
Hector, and formed Videa, which not too long ago was bought by Nolan
Bushnell for more than $1 million amd renamed Sente Technologies.
28. President of Apple Computers Steve Jobs began his high-tech career
at Atari. He was known to walk around barefoot, kick up his dirty
feet on executives' desks, and talked continuously of going to India
to meet a guru. Not only did he do the latter, he designed Breakout
before leaving Atari for good.
29. Before they left Atari, designers Al Miller, David Crane, Larry
Kaplan, and Bob Whitehead were working on games that would later
become Activision cartridges. Crane's Dragster was a spin-off of
the Atari coin-up Drag Race and Kaplan's Kaboom was based on the
Atari coin-op Avalanche.
30. Warren Robinett, tired of Atari's policy of no author credit for
game designers, decided to sign his game, Adventure, in an obscure
secret room in the program. He never told his fellow designers
about this for fear of word getting out and he being reprimanded.
Ultimately, a 12 year-old in Salt Lake City discovered the room
where it was written: "Created by Warren Robinett." To his
surprise, Robinett was never punished. He too left Atari shortly
thereafter.
=======================================================================
* PERUSING GENIE by Ed Krimen
=======================================================================
-=> In the "Hardware" category (4)
-=> from the "HELP! General Q & A" (10)
Message 94 Wed Jan 22, 1992
S.JOHNSON10 [Steve] at 23:40 EST
Okay, I remember hearing that one could replace the 68000 in older ST's
with a 68010 without making any modifications. Is this still true with
the STE (I'd IMAGINE so, anyway!)? Anyway, what are the benefits/
drawbacks to making this 'upgrade'? I've heard that the 68010 will
perform some slightly faster in overall performance, but is there
anything bad about it? I guess what I'm REALLY asking is whether it's
at all worth doing. Is it?
----------
Message 95 Thu Jan 23, 1992
DOUG.W at 08:02 EST
TOS versions prior to 1.6 will not support the 68010. Putting a 68010
in an STE should work, but I'm not sure if the 68010 was ever produced
in a PLCC (square) version. At any rate, the 68010 will only increase
the the overall speed of the computer by 1 or 2 percent.
--Doug
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "Hardware" category (4)
-=> from the "Turbo16 from Fast Technology" category (11)
Message 123 Sun Jan 26, 1992
J.ALLEN27 [FAST TECH] at 01:43 EST
We have the fastest 68000 accelerator in the world, the T20 and T25,
which run a 20 and 25Mhz.
T20....$329.00US
T25....$379.00US
These fit all 520, 1040, and Mega STs. With a small adapter they fit the
1040STE also.
STE adapter...$49.00US
We also offer TOS 2.06 to our customers, along with an installation kit,
to allow you to upgrade any 520, 1040, or MegaST.
TOS 2.06....$60.00US option
We also have in limited release the TURBO030, 40Mhz 68030 accelerator.
It comes in two versions, half populated, and fully populated. Full
surface mount design, the only user installable option is the FPU
upgrade, comprised of a 60Mhz 68882 coprocessor.
TURBO030 cache-only.....$1,199.00US.....$999.00US to T16/2x and ISD users
TURBO030 4Meg...........$1,999.00US...$1,495.00US to T16/2x and ISD users
As soon as the 16Meg DRAMs are available, there will be a 16Meg version,
hopefully by this summer.
The FPU option is for Dynacadd and Lexicore SW users....$299.00US
We are also working on a Virtual Memory SW option, to allow your system
to have up to 128Meg of ram. Price to be set, but we are targeting
$299.00US.
That's about it...so far.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "Hardware" category (4)
-=> from the "Gadgets 68030 SST Board" topic (44)
Message 21 Mon Jan 27, 1992
P.LESTER2 at 23:04 EST
Has Gadget's started shipping yet. Is there some type of problem? I
haven't seen them on the board for about a week? I hope this doesn't
turn out to be another PCditto II.
----------
Message 23 Tue Jan 28, 1992
STACE [Mark] at 12:42 EST
P. As I told P.Lester in email, I spoke with Dave last night. He is
just as frustrated by the delays as anyone here (more so....believe
me!). Because of the addition of TOS 2.06, which resulted in some
software changes, many portions of the manual had to be rewritten.
Obviously, for a product as complex as SST the manual is VERY important.
Then, Gadgets got the run around from the printers. I don't know the
entire details of this but suffice to say that the manual is going to
the printers today and SST will ship the minute they get the manuals
back.
Trust me...the SST hardware is FINISHED and is solid. The
initialization software and related support software is FINISHED. (Of
course, more software "goodies" are planned by Dave down the road). The
SSTs are packaged...sitting there waiting for the manuals.
You will NOT be disappointed! You simply plug the SST into your
motherboard (after adding a 68000 socket if you don't already have one),
place the necessary initialization software in your AUTO folder and
BINGO!!...the fastest ST on earth!
All you future SST owners should grab your socks...it's SPEED time!
Mark
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "Atari Magazines" category (15)
-=> from the "START magazine" topic (9)
Message 149 Mon Jan 27, 1992
T.EVANS21 [<Ted E.>] at 20:27 EST
Just got a letter from the San Francisco District Attorney's Consumer
Fraud Unit, today in fact. It is a form letter with a handwritten post
script.. What is says is.... This firm has gone out of business, and
unfortunately the principals cannot be located. We can find no way of
assisting you at this time.. Then it goes on to say what would happen
if they tried to resume operations in California... The hand written
part goes on to say that the phones are disconnected and at no time did
they issue any refunds. And that they do not know where the owner is...
Hey don't feel bad I am out about 3 years of prepaid disk subscriptions
@ $60-70 per year.. I won't get into how the prepay happened... I think
that as far as the DA Office is concerned, forget any hopes of ever
seeing one thin dime out of this...
But isn't Antic still around? Are they not publishing a PC oriented
magazine?? I owned several corporations in my life, and you cannot hide
too far behind them, nor can you hide/transfer assets. If some really
wants to find out they can with a good lawyer.. IMHO there should be a
class action suit and lets track this guy down.....
-Ted- [T.EVANS21]
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "Atari Corporation Online" category (14)
-=> from the "Feedback to Atari" topic (31)
Message 196 Sun Jan 26, 1992
D.KERR1 [Drew] at 16:29 EST
More Atari in Keyboard!
I just received the February issue and the 2-page color contest
featuring all these great Atari products was repeated, as well as the
banner on the upper-left hand side of the cover. Not to mention an
interview with Starr Parodi (of Arsenio Hall's band) who explains how
her husband turned her on to the Atari ST and Hybrid SMPTE Tracks! A
double-whammy! Congratulations!
I spent a little time in Tower Books in Manhattan this morning. It has
one of the largest magazine selections in the city. A whole bunch of
Atari publications were right there: Explorer, AtariUser, AIM, even the
last issue of STart!! I could not find Business Publishing anywhere!
It's too bad this magazine is having distribution problems, because a
little more press mileage would be great.
Drew
----------
Message 202 Tue Jan 28, 1992
S.JOHNSON10 [Steve] at 01:50 EST
D.KERR1 - The Atari/Keyboard giveaway SHOULD be in every issue of
KEYBOARD up until the Oct.'92 issue. Also, KEYBOARD subscribers, like
myself, whose current subscriptions are almost up are also receiving
subscription renewal cards in the mail that also have the giveaway in
it.
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "User Groups and Shows" category (11)
-=> from "The TAF Show 1992 ... 4/4-5/92" topic (6)
Message 9 Wed Jan 22, 1992
BOB-BRODIE [Atari Corp.] at 23:47 EST
I've spoken to Geoff Earle about this show, and Atari is very excited to
be involved with this show! TAF is a first class organization, I
attended their show two years ago at the Toronto Hilton. They put on an
excellent show! Coupled with the assistance from Atari Canada, I am
confident that this will be an event not to be missed!
I plan on attending this event, and urge everyone to mark their
calendars NOW for the weekend of April 4-5, 1992. You'll be glad you
did! I've already got a call in to my travel agent for my tickets!
In addition to their usual high end show, Atari Canada "took notes" at
the Chicago Computerfest! <grin> I think those of you that enjoyed
Chicago will find that our friends to the north are out to take a good
thing, and make it even better!!
Keep us all posted on your progress as the show approaches!!!
very best regards,
Bob Brodie
Director of Communications
Atari Computer Corporation
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "CodeHead Software" category (32)
-=> from the "Quick ST 3 - Now A CodeHead Product!" topic (31)
Message 228 Fri Jan 24, 1992
C.F.JOHNSON [CodeHead] at 12:52 EST
Quick note from the debugging labs: Quick ST's problem with the VDI
vst_alignment() call has been fixed. Thanks to Marlo for bringing it to
my attention.
- Charles
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "Atari TT" category (28)
-=> from the "TOS 3.05: What's in it??" topic (18)
Message 67 Mon Jan 27, 1992
TOWNS [John@Atari] at 00:14 EST
Atari uses a number of compilers. The Operating System is still compiled
mostly in Alcyon C with parts in MADMAC. There are parts of the system
that are written in Lattice C and others.
As for the future, we have made purchases of Lattice C v5 for all of the
TOS Group and a lot of our people have made the jump to Lattice already
or are planning to. Eventually, the goal is an ANSI compilable OS that
is compiled with Lattice C v5 with 68030 code.
I use Lattice C exclusively now.
-- John Townsend, Atari Corp.
PS. XControl was written in Turbo C.
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "Programmers and Programming Software Discussions" category
(3)
-=> from the "Assembly Language for the ST" topic (19)
Message 98 Fri Jan 24, 1992
J.ZORZIN [Joe] at 03:20 EST
I just got a letter today from Taylor Ridge Books announcing a series of
assembly language books by Clayton Walnum for the ST. I've been wanting
to learn assembly for years but couldn't find any good material. To
find out more call: (203)643-9673.
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "Hardware" category (4)
-=> from the "Hard Drives" topic (39)
Message 63 Mon Jan 27, 1992
SANDY.W [RT SysOp] at 19:01 EST
Does anyone know how to convert the power ratings on electrical
equipment into kw hours? I'm curious as to what portion of my bill is
really from the equipment. Looking at my bills I doubt it is more than
a few dollars, but now I am curious.
----------
Message 64 Mon Jan 27, 1992
D.CHARTER at 21:11 EST
Sandy,
1 KW is 1000 watts used for 1 hour. A 100 watt light will use 1/10 of a
kw if left on 1 hour. This means the Atari disk drive (that uses 15
watts) will use 1kw in 66.6 hours. At 10 cents per kw, that will cost
you .15 cents per hour. If your equipment does not show the wattage
used; watts=voltage * current. That means a 3 amp power supply at 120
volts will use 360 watts every hour. That equates to .36 kw.
This shows that your computer equipment really only uses a very small
amount of power.
Duane
""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
=======================================================================
* THE TOP PALMTOPS - Part 1 of 2 by David Hayden
=======================================================================
How small can a computer get? Ten years ago, when IBM announced the PC,
it seemed inconceivable that it would someday fit in a coat pocket.
Today, such a device not only exists, it is even reasonably priced.
Though palmtop devices are newcomers in the consumer electronics market,
there's already a handful of models from well known manufacturers.
The Atari Portfolio, Casio SF-9500 Executive B.O.S.S., Hewlett-Packard
95LX, Poqet PC and Sharp Wizard OZ-8200 represent the current crop of
pocketable computers. Although the Sharp Wizard and Casio B.O.S.S. are
primarily electronic organizers, their use of memory and program cards,
and links to desktop PCs, make these products more than just electronic
daybooks.
The differences in the function and design of these five palmtops spell
greater variety and choice for those interested in taking advantage of
the latest technology. This report highlights these differences and
give recommendations on the best uses for each model.
Atari Portfolio
If you want a palmtop that works well as a note taker but don't want to
spend a fortune, consider the $299 Atari Portfolio. The Portfolio
features a very clear 40-character x 8-line display, a standard QWERTY
keyboard with a solid feel, and 128K of memory that can be split between
storage and memory.
The built-in applications include the basic organizer functions such as
address book, appointment scheduler, calculator and text editor, plus a
limited spreadsheet with Lotus file compatibility. Literally hundreds
of other applications may be run by using memory cards specifically for
the Portfolio.
The address book shows either a one-line entry containing names and
phone numbers only, or a page display with the address and any other
pertinent data. The address book has very little structure, and in
fact, is similar to a free-form database. It works well for keeping
track of things to do and practically any other data. The number of
address books is limited only by storage. Loading an address book can
be very slow if you have more than a hundred entries.
The appointment scheduler doesn't have all the bells and whistles of the
other units reviewed, but it does provide basic functionality, including
sounding alarms, even when turned off. Repeating appointments are
available, but a weekly view is not offered.
The text editor, while weak in the formatting area, does provide word
wrap (so that words are not split between lines), margin settings, cut
and paste, and search and replace. While the Great American Novel
probably won't be written on the Portfolio, it is useful for taking
notes in a business meeting or in a classroom.
The calculator feature is enhanced by the embedded numeric keypad that
activates automatically upon entering the calculator mode. The
calculator includes an paperless tape that can be edited and five
memories. You can change the format of the numbers and send output to a
printer.
The worksheet application is a 127-column by 255-row Lotus version 1A-
compatible spreadsheet without macros, databases or string functions.
The Portfolio's spreadsheet is useful for small applications such as
expense tracking.
You have two options for transferring files between the Portfolio and a
PC. The least expensive approach is the $50 parallel adapter that
doubles as a printer port. The other is a $99 card drive that allows
you to use Portfolio memory cards in your PC just like a floppy
diskette. This makes the file transfer process effortless. Atari
provides no facility for file conversion or merging work done on both
the PC and the Portfolio, but all Portfolio files are saved in a
standard ASCII format. For Macintosh users, there is a $159 program
called "MAC in Your Pocket" that allows the use of the optional serial
port for file transfers.
Unfortunately, DOS compatibility is not as functional as PC
connectivity. The Portfolio features a subset of MS-DOS 2.1 called
DIP-DOS.
This name is aptly suited for this limited, and extremely incompatible
DOS. Only small, "well-behaved" DOS programs run acceptably on the
Portfolio.
When running DOS programs, the difference in screen size from a standard
PC is handled by using the 40 x 8 screen as a window to a full-size 80
x 25 screen. In most cases this "virtual screen" approach works well,
but the lack of reverse video causes some PC programs to be cumbersome
or unusable.
Fortunately, hundreds of public domain programs specifically for the
Portfolio are available on CompuServe, a popular electronic information
service, including a full-blown Basic programming language, games like
Tetris, and many useful utilities. Until recently, only two program
cards existed for the Portfolio: the DOS Utilities Card, which features
a basic communications program, and the Finance Card. Several programs
were recently announced that greatly enhance the usability of the
Portfolio. These include a Basic compiler, outliner, stock portfolio
tracker, time and expense card, spell-checker and dictionary/thesaurus.
Other titles include a travel guide for both the U.S. and Europe,
language translator, check writer, database, flight planner, and a host
of other applications. While the Sharp Wizard was once the king in
program cards, the Portfolio is now a formidable opponent.
Peripherals are available for the Portfolio from both Atari and third-
party vendors. In addition to the PC Card Drive and parallel interface,
a serial interface can be used to hook up a modem or virtually any other
serial device. The Portfolio is the only palmtop that supports a line-
powered modem such as the $159 Practical Pocket Modem. The other
palmtops that support communications require bulkier battery-powered
modems. Xoterix provides several interesting products for the
Portfolio, including a 512K memory expansion module and an $899 20MB
hard disk that attaches neatly to the bottom of the Portfolio.
Several factors limit the usability of the Atari Portfolio. Currently,
the maximum memory card size is 128K. Because of the Portfolio's
tendency to lock-up, memory cards are a must for data storage. Also,
the "battery low" message usually comes on after the batteries go dead.
You don't see the message until after you insert a new set of batteries.
Built-in applications are limited to a file size of about 50K regardless
of available memory, which can limit the size of your address book or
memo.
While the Portfolio is not without it's weaknesses, it is a good value
if you need a little more than an electronic day timer. The built-in
spreadsheet is useful for simple tasks. Although it provides only
limited DOS compatibility, many applications have been adapted for the
Portfolio. If your applications require a large amount of data, the
Portfolio may not be appropriate because of its limit on storage and
file size. The well-designed keyboard makes the Portfolio useful as a
note taker. Because of the wealth of free and almost-free software and
the low cost of the base unit and the PC link, the Atari Portfolio is
arguably the best value on the palmtop market.
Casio Executive B.O.S.S. SF-9500
Unlike the other palmtops that offer DOS compatibility, high-powered
built-in applications, and communications capability, the $319 Casio
SF-9500 Executive B.O.S.S. sticks to the basics. It offers the same
basic organizer functions as the first-generation Sharp Wizard. The
addition of a program card slot to this new model opens up the
capability for third-party applications. The B.O.S.S. 9500 features 64K
of expandable memory, a QWERTY keyboard, and a 32-character x 6-line
display that pales in comparison to the larger displays of the other
palmtops reviewed here. The comparable Sharp Wizard OZ-8200 is superior
to the Casio B.O.S.S. in nearly every area. It offers twice as much
memory, a larger display, and several additional built-in applications.
An interview with several SF-9500 users on CompuServe revealed that most
would choose the Wizard 8200 over the Casio if given the opportunity to
do it over.
The built-in applications include a telephone book, appointment
scheduler, memo function, business card feature, calendar, home/world
time, and calculator. The telephone book and business card applications
are similar: Both provide standard address book fields, including name,
address and phone number, and six customizable fields. The business
card function offers more detailed categories, including company name,
position, department, fax number and other relevant information. The
SF-9500 provides a flexible search facility which allows for a combined
word search.
The memo function has limited usefulness due to the 384 character limit.
The Sharp Wizard's word wrap and calc data functions are not available
on the SF-9500. The calendar application includes a view showing two
months side by side. The integrated scheduler provides a useful
timetable display and alarm function.
Notably absent from the B.O.S.S. is a repeating appointment feature.
The calculator is a no-frills equivalent of a basic calculator.
Several options exist to expand the capabilities of the Casio B.O.S.S.
SF-9500. The PC Link allows file transfers between the B.O.S.S. and a
PC, including the capability to transfer Lotus spreadsheets and other
data. A Macintosh version of the PC Link is also available. File
conversions include Sidekick, Sidekick Plus, SDF delimited, text, and PC
Tools. File transfers can include an entire file or a single entry. A
unit-to-unit cable is included with the base model.
Only a handful of applications are available for the Casio, the most
powerful of which is the 3D Spreadsheet card. Expense Easy, Spell
Checker and Thesaurus, Barron's Business & Travel Translator, OAG Travel
Planner and several personal programs, including Wine Companion, Weight
Loss Companion, and Lottery/Horoscope Diskware are also available.
Finally, to expand the internal memory, Casio offers 64K and 128K memory
cards.
Many SF-9500 users on CompuServe reported several problems including
battery failure without warning, almost non-existent technical support,
and confusing documentation. The documentation fails to mention a
number for technical support or what to do if the unit is defective.
Both experienced and novice users found the Casio difficult to use in
comparison to the Sharp Wizard.
The Casio Executive B.O.S.S. SF-9500 is behind the times. Except for
the QWERTY keyboard and larger screen, it brings little new to the table
from the original Sharp Wizard that was introduced more than three years
ago. Users of earlier models of the B.O.S.S. line may find the
increased memory and program card slot of the SF-9500 worth upgrading,
but new users should look elsewhere.
Hewlett-Packard 95LX
If you are a spreadsheet user and need more than an electronic
organizer, but an full 80 x 25 display isn't necessary, the $699 DOS-
compatible HP 95LX offers the best trade offs.
It features a 40-character x 16-line LCD display, 512K of memory, Lotus
1-2-3, and an impressive array of organizer tools in a package that is
small enough to fit in a shirt pocket.
The HP 95LX is the newest member of the palmtop category, and Hewlett-
Packard clearly has learned from the mistakes and achievements of the
competition on almost every front. The built-in applications include an
address book, appointment scheduler with to-do list, text editor, data
communications, HP calculator, file manager, and most impressively,
Lotus 1-2-3.
Unlike the Portfolio, whose spreadsheet has limited functionality, the
HP 95LX provides a full copy of Lotus 1-2-3 version 2.2, complete with
graphs, macros and database. It is identical to its desktop counterpart
with the exception of Allways, Print Graph and the Translate utility.
The keyboard is designed with the Lotus user in mind. The 95LX features
a separate numeric keypad, and the / key, @ symbol and parenthesis are
separate keys. Even the 1-2-3 function key template is printed above
the keys. If you are a Lotus 1-2-3 user, the HP 95LX is a good fit.
The address book is adequate, but like the other built-in applications,
excluding Lotus 1-2-3, file sizes are limited to about 50K. The address
book provides both a card and index view, and search capability. The
memo editor provides basic text editing and printing, but isn't designed
for letter writing.
The appointment scheduler is rivaled only by the Sharp Wizard. The 95LX
is the only product that features a prioritized to-do list that is
integrated into the appointment scheduler. A useful alarm function
allows you to set a lead time of up to 30 minutes to remind you of an
appointment, even if the unit is turned off.
Other features include attachable notes, repeating appointments and a
calendar view. The communications module is the most complete among all
palmtops. It is the only one that features VT-100 terminal emulation
and provides the most complete scripting language for automating
communication sessions. Other features include both Xmodem and Kermit
file transfer protocol, file capture and the ability to easily move
around an 80-column communications session.
As you would expect, the financial calculator function of the 95LX is
the best among its peers. An impressive array of features include time-
value-of-money calculations, interest rate and currency conversions,
function graphing and general arithmetic. A back-solver function is
seamlessly integrated with 1-2-3, so you can perform calculations even
if a variable is missing. A typical application would be to determine
the principle of a loan given a specific monthly payment.
How do you make a good QWERTY keyboard in a 4 x 2-inch area? You don't!
If one feature takes away from an otherwise great product, it's the
keyboard. It is obvious that this one was designed by HP's calculator
division. The inclusion of a separate numeric keypad versus an embedded
keypad like that of the Portfolio, Poqet and virtually every laptop and
notebook computer on the market, makes typing a challenge. Some 1-2-3
and calculator users will welcome the trade off.
The overall hardware and software design, with the exception of the
keyboard, is extremely logical. Probably the most useful feature of the
95LX is the ability to instantly switch between any application at the
touch of a key and return to it at exactly the same point. Being able
to instantly switch between Lotus 1-2-3, phone book, memo and
appointment scheduler is a big boost to productivity. Other useful
features include a battery gauge, password protection and a system-wide
macro facility. An infrared port allows convenient wireless file
transfer between two HP 95LXs.
The PC Link cable is unobtrusive compared to the bulkier connections of
the Atari and the Poqet. The Filer, which is similar in functionality
to LapLink, provides a split screen, with HP files on one side and PC
files on the other. Of all the palmtops reviewed, the HP provides the
easiest PC file transfer facility. The Filer is also useful for copying
files to and from RAM cards, deleting files, creating directories and
executing DOS programs. Included with the $99 Connectivity Pack is the
desktop counterpart of the HP's internal applications, with the
exception of Lotus 1-2-3 and the communications module. File translate
utilities are included for conversion between HP applications and Lotus
Metro, Sidekick Plus and PC Tools.
Because of the marketing power of Hewlett-Packard and Lotus, third-party
developers are jumping on the HP bandwagon with an abundance of new
hardware and software. Motorola recently announced the NewsStream
Receiver that offers wireless one-way communications to the HP 95LX.
This product is actually a pager that connects to the side of the unit
and displays messages and up-to-the-minute information such as news,
sports and weather, plus traffic reports and stock quotations on the
HP's display. Other products due out include ACT!, a popular contact
management application, MCI Express for electronic mail, Managing Your
Money, a personal finance package, and Global-link, a document translation
package.
Several peripherals are available from third parties including the $359
U.S. Robotics Worldport 2400 modem and the $539 Kodak Diconix 150 Plus
battery-operated printer. Currently, HP offers only 128K and 512K
memory cards. Memory cards designed for the Poqet PC, up to 2MB, will
work on the HP 95LX, although Hewlett-Packard claims that battery life
may suffer. PC card drives are available from several vendors including
DataBook.
The HP 95LX is the latest entry into the palmtop category, and HP has
capitalized on the experience of the other vendors. The built-in
software is the most comprehensive of the bunch. The spreadsheet, which
is a complete version of Lotus 1-2-3 v. 2.2, and a communications module
that provides terminal emulation and scripting, are superior to the
other products. The day timer features are equaled only by the Sharp
Wizard. The HP 95LX is not recommended for extensive writing, due to
its small keyboard. Hewlett-Packard clearly designed the 95LX for 1-2-3
and HP calculator users, but the combination of useful built-in
applications, DOS compatibility and an industry standard memory card
slot give the HP 95LX mass appeal.
=======================================================================
* TRANSFERRING DATA BETWEEN MAC AND PORTFOLIO
=======================================================================
Transferring data between the Macintosh and the Portfolio requires the
following:
1. Your Mac and your Portfolio
2. A cable with an eight-pin connector at one end (this is the familiar
circular plug that's used to connect a modem to a Macintosh). At the
other end of the cable, you'll need a 9-pin serial connector. You
can find such a cable at MacWarehouse, other mail order firms, or a
local Mac dealer. It's a common item. The cable costs about $20.
3. The Portfolio's serial interface.
4. An AC adapter for the Portfolio (because the serial interface zaps
batteries in a matter of minutes).
5. A software package like Smartcom on your Mac.
6. A Portfolio software program called XTERM.COM. You can get this
program on the new "Terminator 2" File Manager card from Atari. Or,
you can find a friend who can transfer it onto an Atari memory card.
Or, you can download it from an IBM computer (this requires a
parallel interface setup; see the related article called
"transferring data between the IBM and the Portfolio.
7. Since the c: drive on the Portfolio is small in size, and volatile,
you should transfer incoming files onto a separate memory card. Be
sure there's enough empty space on the card to carry the file; if the
Port runs out of room, it goes crazy and locks up.
8. The file called XTERM.COM should be either on your c: drive or on the
memory card you've inserted. (That is, you'll need to copy it to one
of these places; having it on the File Manager card is a problem
because you can't write to that card).
Once you've assembled all of this, the rest is pretty easy. Here we go
on the hardware, step-by-step:
1. Set up the Portfolio:
a. Attach the serial interface
b. Attach the cable to the serial interface
c. Insert a memory card with enough space for the incoming file
d. Attach the AC adapter.
e. Press the Atari-S key combination to see the SETUP menu. Select
RS-232. Your settings should read 9600 baud, Parity/none, Data
bits/8, stop bits/1. If you need to change any of these, just
type the first letter ("B" for Baud) and you'll see a menu of
options. When you're done, press "I" for initialize. (And don't
be confused by the words "File Transfer" on the SETUP menu; that's
for the IBM world.)
2. Set up the Mac:
a. Plug the cable into the port marked with the telephone. You'll
find it on the back panel of your machine.
b. Start up your software. Make sure the "modem settings" match the
ones above (9600 baud, etc.)
Now, let's get the software happening:
1. On the Portfolio:
a. Run XTERM. The menu will tell you to press a function key to send
(F2) or to receive (F3).
b. If you're sending, be sure to indicate the drive where the files
lives (this is not needed if the file and XTERM are on the same
drive). Then, name the file precisely (even one letter mistyped
will be a problem).
c. If you're receiving, tell the Port which drive should receive the
file, and what you want it to be called ("a:newfile.txt", for
example).
2. On the Mac:
a. Be sure you're going to send or receive in the XMODEM format.
Now, set up to send or receive (remember, it's the opposite of
what you're doing on the Port-- if the Port is sending, then the
Mac is receiving, etc.)
What should happen during the transfer:
1. On the Portfolio:
a. A series of dots along a single line, then another, indicating
blocks transferred successfully. When the file is done, the word
"Done" will appear.
2. On the Mac:
a. Depending on your software, you may see some sort of bar graph
showing progress. If not, you should see something indicating
that the job was done successfully.
If nothing happens:
1. Unplug everything and start over. Computers are not perfect.
Sometimes, they need a little stroking.
2. Check everything (it's often something simple). The most likely
culprits are mismatched settings (baud rates, particularly), bad
cables, lack of patience on the part of the user, mistyped commands.
3. Put a message up on a forum bulletin board. The people here know a
lot about computers, and their advice is not only on target and
freely given, it's given within a day, often within hours.
If you get gibberish on the screen when you open a word processing file:
1. You probably transferred a Mac file without first saving it in a
generic (text, for example) format. The same is true for files
created on the Port; you must use Apple File Exchange to change them
to Mac files, or open them from within your word processor.
=======================================================================
* THE FUTURE OF COMPUTING (Reader Commentary) by Jeff Payne
=======================================================================
CompuServe # 70302,3362
Most people are not aware of the power that Atari computers are capable
of handling and producing. 90% of all the personal computers in homes
are IBM brand and IBM clones. Everyone thinks this is because IBM has
such a great team of executives that built IBM to the giant Big Blue
corporation that it is today. But that's not the case. The reason IBM
is the top computer format is not because IBM has brilliant management.
The REAL reason is because the IBM operating system system was so easy
for cloning companies to duplicate. The IBM software format became top
thanks to cloning. More than 75% of people who own IBM format systems
own clones. If there was no such thing as cloning, IBM wouldn't hold a
candle to the other computer formats (I.E. Atari, Apple, Amiga). Most
of the people who own IBM brand/clone computers have never seen or used
another type of computer, so they don't know what's out there. And
since "word of mouth" sells better than any advertising does, a vicious
cycle of mis-educated computer users erupted.
However some people discovering that there ARE other computer formats
besides IBM. People are finding out that a GEM-based environment is
much friendlier, easier to use, and less frustrating than MS/DOS.
That's probably why Windows is the number one selling title on IBM
brand/clone computers.
So what's the number one complaint among people own Atari systems? "Not
enough new software titles!" This problem could be treated if more
people found out about Atari computers, and what all it's capable of
doing. Most people I talk to tell me that they find the Atari TOS
computer much easier, simpler to use, and less frustrating, than when
they used a Mac, an Amiga, and of course an IBM clone.
If more people just sat down and used an Atari computer for a while, and
got comfortable with its operating environment, more people would want
to purchase Atari systems. Then we'd have more users, some of whom
would evolve to become part-time amateur software developers, and then
to full-time professional developers.
So what can YOU do? Invite someone you know to come over, and to check
out your Atari. This individual could be anyone; a friend, a relative,
a neighbor, a co worker, anyone! Invite him or her over for a cup of
coffee (or a soda) and to just show that friend your Atari, which you're
so excited about having, that you just want to impress someone. So far
this is pretty simple, right? Nothing fishy, no hype. You're just
simply inviting a friend over to come have some coffee and check out
your Atari computer. This is called "Word Of Mouth" advertising. It
happens all the time!
For example, when you go see a movie, the next day you're telling all
your friends about it, whether you thought it was great, or if you
thought it sucked. Movie producers know that the larger number of movie
goers is a result of Word Of Mouth advertising. Without it, the movie
industry wouldn't be NEARLY as successful as it is.
So now you have your friend over. After you serve him/her some coffee,
tell 'em, "Hey, come on over here and check out my new Atari computer.
I've had it now for about ___ years, and it's great! I do almost
everything with it. I use it to write letters to people, do my bank
transactions, store information, call bulletin boards, play video games
you name it, my Atari can do it! Have you ever seen an Atari computer
before?"
More often than not, people will, at this point, shake their head and
say, "No." At this point, what you'll want to do is ask them to sit in
front of the computer, and you'll narrate the rest.
"Okay, you see those icon boxes? Use the mouse to move that little
pointer onto the icon of
your choice, and simply double-click what ever
it is you want to do."
Basically all you're doing at this point is explaining to your friend
all about how TOS works. As you're guiding your friend through these
operations, his/her brain is going, "Oh Wow! Oh Wow!" And the more
features and programs you tour your friend through, the more it's
validating the fact that the Atari computer is indeed a great system to
work with. So now, your friend is thinking, "This is pretty easy to
use! And kind of fun too. I like this a lot better than that stupid
piece 'o junk at work. Hmm, maybe I should consider getting an Atari
computer!" Remember, you're not a sales person, and you're not getting
any commissions for closing any sales. You're just simply inviting a
friend over for some friendly chit-chat, some coffee, and a little show
and tell. Can you imagine demonstrating to a friend any other computer
format? You'd confuse them if you tried!
Just remember, this is a friend of yours. Guide your friend step-by-
step through all operations, make sure you use a good brand of coffee,
and pretty soon, Atari computers will dominate the planet! By the way,
the same situation happens to be true in the video game industry. Most
people don't know about The Atari Lynx game machine. The Game Boy is
the top selling portable game machine NOT because people think it's the
best (it certainly ain't!) Nintendo uses a clever advertising scheme.
Not to mention that we all happen to know several people who own
Nintendos. Macdonald's sells more hamburgers NOT because it's the best
tasting burger (do YOU think it is???). Macdonald's unique method of
marketing put them at the top. MS/DOS is the clumsy, most bugged
operating format in computers, but it still happens to be at the top of
ownership. Depressing, isn't it! But if we all did our part, Atari TOS
systems could be at the top of the computer mountain, and The Lynx would
help "Atari to Reclaim The Title Of Video Game King!"
By the way, if you're interested in knowing more about the new STE
newsletter, or if you'd like a really great opportunity to become
financially independent, send me a message to the CompuServe address
above. Thanks!
=======================================================================
* THE SOFTWARE SHELF by Ron Berinstein
=======================================================================
Well so many people around the gift giving seasons inform us that good
things do come in small packages. Pinhead proves that! And, this week
if you haven't already, you have the opportunity to spend a very little
time, downloading a very little program, that does a very big job. For
those not already knowledgeable about Pinhead, it installs automatically
the, "fastload bit," which allows programs you select for loading, to
load faster. The answer to the common question about the need for
Pinhead since TOS 1.4's release is that yes, installing Pinhead still
makes sense. Why? Because it not only set the fastload bit
automatically, with no additional effort, but it does so with better
compatibility than does the GEM system, which coughs with certain
installations. PINHEAD version 2.1 now works with every TOS version.
A ray tracing program, a complete shareware development system, the
current version of Whatis, all comprise some of the possibilities for
you to choose from.
Well, the bugle has blown and they are off and running! So... good
luck, here are some of your options.
Things that do things automatically...
PINHED21.ARC PINH21.ARC contains PinHead 2.1! Version 2.1 is now
compatible with ALL versions of TOS in ROM, from TOS 1.0 up to TOS 2.6/
3.06. PinHead is the *tiny* AUTO folder utility that speeds up the
loading of all programs. Be sure to read the included documentation
carefully though!
BOOTTYME.ARC contains BootTyme which gets installed with a floppy in
drive A, then it allows one to boot a system with one switch.
Automatically waits for the hard drive, and no y to press. Bypass the 90
second delay in the new TOSs. TT Compatible. This program will write
to the boot sector of your disks. So Use Caution! This shows up as a
VIRUS on many virus util's, though same hasn't been shown to be the
case.
INSDATE.LZH is a tiny desk accessory, (includes source code), that will
send the current system date to an open application. Use it in word
processors or while online. Freeware from the United Kingdom.
24BIT.LZH This program magically reprograms a TT's MMU to ignore the
upper eight bits on the 32-bit memory bus. (Hence the name 24bit.prg)
Running this program from your auto folder will allow you to
(reportedly) run GFA BASIC programs and Microsoft Word. It also allows
one to run the version of DCFormat that comes with Spectre. This is
reposted from Usenet; docs are in English; this program is useless for
and will not run on ST's.
MEGASTE.LZH MSTE.LZH This is the the MegaSTE Configuration Set. This
is a collection of four small programs to set various Cache and Speed
settings for the MegaSTE computer. Will run from the Desktop, AUTO
Folder, and TOS Mode. There are FAST (16Mhz, Cache), NORM (8Mhz, No
Cache), FASTNC (16Mhz, No Cache), and WHATAMI (This tells you your
current configuration).
ATLAS1.LZH is a revision of the GAZETTEER - requires GAZDAT.LZH to run!
It now has full GUI and an auto Timezone feature. Read docs before
running.
For a different picture...
DIJ_IT.ARC This is the software that will operate the DIJ-IT video
digitizer. A build-it yourself hardware project featured in Atari
Explorer magazine (Jan/Feb issue). Some of the software requires either
the homemade version or the Kit version. Also has file to convert
between NEO, PI1 and QPX format pics & QPXTERM v0.2 for viewing On-Line
digitized pics.
QRT.LZH is a ray tracing program with source code, ported from another
system.
PICFX__2.ARC has PIC FX 2, a special FX picture viewer. It can show
.PI?, .PC? & .TN? pix in any resolution and .NEO in low with special FX
slide shows. Individual .SPC & .SPU pictures can also be viewed in low
rez. Pictures wash, fade, switch palettes etc. in 26 variations. GFA
Basic/GP Edit.
For Pagestream users...
PGS_CS.ARC is a desk accessory that replaces PGS_AP_D which allows
access to those "odd-ball" characters which normally need complex key
combinations and a chart. This version is updated to work with the
latest version of PageStream (which is required; this accessory is of
little use without it) and to include the low-end characters (card
suits, etc.).
For Game Players...
TRIPLES.ARC Triples is a game of matching three-of-a-kinds and solving
rebus type puzzles. from 1 to 3 players. LOW-REZ color only. 1 MEG
needed. Written by the author of the public domain Jeopardy game.
For folks that like to download in candle light, with the fireplace
glowing and a glass of vintage wine...
MULTI.LZH is a demo of a new sequencer program from Canada. The
uploader was able to call CodeHead and D/ld msgs as he was playing a
Midi file from Multi. He was impressed! Since this is a demo there is
no saving, but you can load Midi files and print scores. There are no
docs included with the demo except instructions on how one sorts
folders.
W_CHIMES.LZH WIND CHIMES is a beautiful, melodic file sampled atop
a Southwestern roof. This is not just a file containing bits of
tinkling metal--the chimes have rhythm and melody. This is definitely
one of the best and most beautiful sound files ever heard. Sampled at
22MHz.
For those who want to get right down to business...
TAB142.LZH has "The Address Book" - A Shareware Desktop Accessory for
keeping track of address information. Built-in autodialer with easy to
use interface. Prints labels and enables you to print "take-along"
lists...
MODULA_2 SHAREWARE DEVELOPMENT SYSTEM contains the complete shareware
Modula 2 Development System. That means release notes, GEM DEVELOPMENT
SHELL, LINKER, .DEF LIBRARY, .SYM LIBRARY, and the .OBJ LIBRARY.
THRASHER.ARC This program completely "zeroes-out" a files contents
before deleting from your directory. Great for protecting sensitive
information!
2COLUMNS.LZH 2CLRSC.LZH TWO COLUMN PRINTER Release 5 prints text
(ASCII) files in 2 columns and can do easy 2 sided printing on
continuous form paper. Printer drivers can be made for most printers
and several are included. NEW: Optional sorted paper output (for
DeskJets etc.); Auto run mode; Passed parameter mode (TTP etc.); Longer
columns; Bug fixes; more. FREEWARE All resolutions. 2CLRSC.LZH has
some extra resouce files for 2COLUMNS.PRG (2COLMS.LZH). They have some
of the defaults in the 'Print' dialog set differently from the one that
comes in the main archive. Also included are two test files for use
with 2COLUMNS.PRG that are not in the CIS version of the main archive.
KCLI2.ARC KCLI 2.0 is a full featured CLI. It is unique in that most of
the commands are external modules, instead of memory resident. This
gives the ultimate in user flexibility: If you find a better "DIR"
command, just copy the file. Supports desk accessories, multiple
default paths, full-pathname "install application", Macros, batch files,
& more..
And for those folks who need to find out what kind of business a file
will get you down to....
WHATIS56.ARC WHATIS.ARC The program now identifies which type of LHArc
file (lh1 or lh5). Identifies more than 100 types of files. Works as a
ACC or PRG just rename the extender.
The above files were compiled by Ron Berinstein co-sysop CodeHead
Quarters BBS (213) 461-2095 from files that were either directly
uploaded to CodeHead Quarters BBS, or downloaded from GEnie, Compuserve,
and Delphi online services.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
To sign up for DELPHI service, call (with modem) (800) 695-4002. Upon
connection, hit <return> once or twice. At Password: type ZNET and
hit <return>. (Watch your workspace)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
To sign up for GEnie service call (with modem) (800) 638-8369. Upon
connection type HHH and hit <return>. Wait for the U#= prompt and type
XTX99436,GEnie and hit <return>.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
To sign up for CompuServe service call (with phone) (800) 848-8199. Ask
for operator #198. You will be promptly sent a $15.00 free membership
kit.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Z*Net International Atari Online Magazine is a weekly publication
covering the Atari and related computer community. Material published
in this edition may be reprinted under the following terms only. All
articles must remain unedited and include the issue number and author at
the top of each article reprinted. Reprint permission granted, unless
otherwise noted, to registered Atari user groups and not for profit
publications. Opinions present herein are those of the individual
authors and does not necessarily reflect those of the staff. This
publication is not affiliated with the Atari Corporation. Z*Net, Z*Net
News Service, Z*Net International, Rovac, Z*Net Atari Online and Z*Net
Publishing are copyright (c)1985-1992, Syndicate Publishing, Rovac
Industries Incorporated, Post Office Box 59, Middlesex, New Jersey,
08846-0059, Voice: (908) 968-2024, BBS: (908) 968-8148, (510) 373-6792.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Z*NET: Atari ST Online Magazine
Copyright (c)1992, Rovac Industries, Inc...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
