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Z*NET Online Magazine Issue 91-24
==(((((((((( == Z*NET INTERNATIONAL ATARI ONLINE MAGAZINE
=========(( === -----------------------------------------
=======(( ===== June 7, 1991 Issue #91-24
=====(( ======= -----------------------------------------
==(((((((((( == (c)1989-1990-1991, Z*Net Publishing
Publisher/Editor: Ron Kovacs
Editor: John Nagy
PD/Shareware Editor: Ron Berinstein
NEW CIS PPN --> 75300,1642
CONTENTS
Z*NET NEWSWIRE............................................
ST-ADVANTAGE ONLINE PANEL DISCUSSION................Delphi
CODEHEAD SOFTWARE UPDATE.....................Press Release
BLACKJACK PLUS 3.............................Press Release
Z*NET SOFTWARE SHELF........................Ron Berinstein
GRIBNIF SOFTWARE UPDATE......................Press Release
PORTFOLIO USERS UPDATE..........................Ron Kovacs
Z*MAGAZINE ARCHIVES.............................Ron Kovacs
DOUBLE-CLICK SOFTWARE UPDATE.................Press Release
=======================================================================
Z*NET NEWSWIRE
--------------
=======================================================================
ATARI SELLS MANUFACTURING PLANT
Atari has announced that it has signed a contract for the sale of its
property in Taiwan. The facility will be sold for $60 million, and
closing is scheduled for later this month. The sale is contingent upon
certain conditions of closing being met. Atari noted that assembly
operations have been relocated in a move to increase efficiency and
reduce costs.
COMMODORE UPDATE
Commodore issued a number of announcements this week at CES concerning
new technology, distribution, applications and compatibility for the
CDTV Interactive Multimedia player. CDXL will increase the capability
of the CDTV player by bringing enhanced motion video with no hardware
upgrade required. CDTV-PIP is essentially a 1/3-screen window, which
allows NTSC video to be displayed simultaneously with a running CDTV
application. CDTV-PIP is incorporated into a specially designed plug-in
video card that replaces the current video card yet requires no software
upgrade. Commodore announced that CDTV is planned to be compatible with
Kodak's new Photo CD system. Photo CDs, planned for June 1992 can store
up to 100 35mm photographic images on writable CD-ROM discs.
Commodore introduced two new packages this week for its Amiga 500 line.
The new packages are designed to complement the successful Amiga 500
Bonus package that is currently offered by Amiga retailers. The new
Discovery Pack is an entry-level package, ideal for parents who want a
computer that their children can use for both education and
entertainment. The package features four titles, including KindWords,
Where in the World is Carmen San Diego?, Ports of Call, Deluxe Paint II.
The Discovery Pack also includes a TV adapter, which enables the use of
a Xevision as a monitor. The suggested retail price is $599.
NEW APPLE SOFTWARE
MacX 1.1.7 is the latest version of Apple's X Window System display
server for the Macintosh operating system. It provides X Window System
access and functionality for customers using Apple Macintosh computers
in multivendor environments. MacX 1.1.7 provides support for System 7,
Apple's latest version of the Macintosh operating system and will be
available August 1991. MacX 1.1.7 is $295. Upgrades are available for
current MacX 1.0 and 1.1 customers for $95.
NINTENDO UPDATE
Philips has announced that it has granted Nintendo a license to develop
and market video games on Compact Disc format for play on Nintendo's new
Super Famicom and Super Nintendo Entertainment System 16-bit home video
game hardware systems. The new Compact Disc video games, according to
Nintendo, will be played on a low cost CD ROM-XA Compact Disc player.
Consumers will be able to attach these CD ROM-XA players to their Super
Famicom and Super NES hardware units.
HP REDUCES PRICES
Hewlett-Packard has reduced the list prices on its HP Vectra personal
computers by up to 10 percent and on its mass-storage products by up to
33 percent. HP also has reduced the list price of the HP ScanJet Plus
scanner from $1,595 to $995. Numerous other HP product prices have been
reduced and more information in available by calling HP at 408-720-3824.
NEW DRIVES FOR NOTEBOOK COMPUTERS
Mitsubishi announced the availability of a new floppy drive designed
specifically for "notebook" computers. The MF355E is a 3.5-inch 2
megabyte unformatted, magnetic floppy drive that is less than 15
millimeters in height. The unit weighs less than half a pound and
offers a variety of connector types including a 26-line, 26-line FFC,
and 34-line pinhead connector. All connectors include the signal
interface and power interface in one connector.
=======================================================================
DELPHI _ ST ADVANTAGE ONLINE PANEL
----------------------------------
Edited by Ron Kovacs
=======================================================================
This conference transcript is the exclusive property of the Atari SIGs
on DELPHI. Permission to reprint is granted only if this notice is
included with the transcript and left unchanged. To get your own DELPHI
account and join in on the many activities sponsored by the ST Advantage
and the Atari Advantage on DELPHI, please call 1-800-544-4005 and ask
for Member Services.
Gordie> First, let me welcome everyone to the ST Advantage's first
Online Panel Discussion. To my knowledge, this is a first both for
Delphi and for the ST community as a whole. I hope it becomes a
somewhat regular feature of our formal Conference program here. Next,
I'd like to thank our panelists for taking the time to spend a couple
hours here on Delphi, sharing their thoughts. We all appreciate it.
Briefly, this CO will follow the same format as a live panel discussion,
with the moderator (that'd be me) presenting the panel with questions
and points for further discussion amongst themselves. If there's time
at the end of the discussion, I'll open it to questions from the
audience.
Recent events in the computing world seem to show a new direction for
Atari. A positive direction. The CeBIT show in Germany showed that
Atari is doing some fairly serious research & development. The CEPS
show in Chicago unveiled a new face from Atari, with the Professional
Systems Group making a significant impact in the corporate DTP arena.
But we've seen Atari make forward progress before, only to stall out
when things should have been moving forward. So this is a good time to
hear what some of the leading Atari developers are thinking, and see if
we can peer through the fog a bit and look into the future a bit.
Gordie> Dorothy, can the Atari become a player in the educational field?
DABRUMLEVE> I really think it can, Gordie, and I think Atari is
interested in seeing to it that it does. The Apple IIs that are in most
schools will need replacement soon. Schools with funds are buying new
machines, usually Macs and IBMs. I think the 1040STe can compete with
these platforms, especially on the elementary level, and WIN. We just
have to get in there NOW and market them.
Gordie> Have you seen anything from Atari that indicates they are aware
of that market niche, and are planning to pursue it?
DABRUMLEVE> Yes, I certainly have, and were it not for my non-disclosure
agreement, I'd be happy to share it with you. ;-)
Gordie> Nathan, have you seen anything from Atari that would support the
optimism that seems to be running at a low level through much of the
Atari community?
Nathan> I recently had the pleasure of exhibiting with the Professional
Systems Group at CEPs. As some of you may know, I have had the
opportunity to participate at every major exhibit that Atari has been
at. This latest, at CEPs, was the most professional showing ever. The
Atari name and Logo were downplayed. What they showed was pre-press
publishing solutions. And the booth, and all it contained, was very
well received. This is another market niche, and, as with education, it
is a large one. Not only has Atari recognized their potential in this
market, they did something concrete about it. This was a very positive
show and serious leads were had by all. End result will be sales in
this market. Sales in any niche all add up to market recognition for
Atari. It doesn't matter if your interests are in playing games or
CADD, every sale helps. Every area where we (Atari, itself, and our
software) can shine, helps us all, the entire Atari community.
Gordie> John, you have some interest in music, <grin>, could you talk
about what Atari means in that market?
John at CodeHead> Yes. When the ST was first introduced, it seemed they
had a head start on the other computers because of the built-in MIDI
ports. Hopefully, they haven't lost that edge, although the Mac II
software has started to catch up and in many areas is superior to the ST
software. We at CodeHead have not concentrated very much on MIDI
software, mainly because the competition is very fierce, and the market
is a subset of the general ST market which is already rather small.
Gordie> It sounds like there is a lot to be excited about, but as I said
in my intro, we've been excited before, and have been let down. Do any
(or all) of you think this time will be different?
John at CodeHead> We're waiting with a slightly skeptical optimism. :^)
Nathan ISD/IAAD> Gordie, we've all been around Atari for a very long
time now. Bascially, we're still here, we're still supporting the
product and letting their actions speak for themselves. None of us
represent Atari Corp. All I can offer is that the CEPS exhibit by them
was as good as the best at the show. And that's action.
Tom at ICD> Well, we are still making a good living selling and
developing products for the Atari ST. Of course, there is a market in
Europe that Leonard hasn't messed up yet. ;-)
Gordie> There are a lot of people who are thinking about upgrading their
systems to either MegaSTe's or TT's. But they are hesitant because they
aren't sure just where the Atari market is going. Would any of you
recommend upgrading, or upgrading with qualifications?
Nathan ISD/IAAD> We wrote DynaCADD. We will continue to support
DynaCADD on the Atari platform regardless of whether we end up with the
program on 4 other platforms. I can only speak for myself, but that is
definitely our intention. And with a product like DynaCADD, we always
recommend that you upgrade.
John @ CodeHead> I think it will be wonderful once the new machines pass
FCC class B approval. Until then I believe people might be skeptical
about the investment, not being sure whether developers will support it
fully. We've taken the trouble to make all of our software compatible
with the new machines, however.
DABRUMLEVE> Well, I don't think too many people are going to buy a TT
for their children, but of course I want my software to run and run well
on any compatible machine. And I intend to see to it that it does.
Tom at ICD> We also have made our software compatible but I don't see a
market for the TT in the USA. It is just too close to the Macintosh
offerings in price.
Gordie> I was going to ask all of you to talk a little bit about how
'big' your respective companies are, so we can get an idea of who we,
as users, are dealing with. Tom?
Tom at ICD> ICD has 2,345 employees and 5.4 billion $ in sales.
(Actually make that about 50 employyes and I will never tell the sales
figures.) We found that we had to diversify when we reached around 20
people. That is around 15 in the office (R&D, clerical, lame officers,
and other fat cats), and around 25 in manufacturing in the USA and 3 in
Germany.
Nathan ISD/IAAD> I'll tell, I'll tell, Toms sales figures are
*)&_*()*_()*&)% ISD and Ditek have about 12 staff in Toronto, and then
we have representatives worldwide. DynaCADD is now translated in 4
languages with 2 more appearing shortly.
John at CodeHead> We are basically a partnership of two programmers
trying to run a company. We have one part time employee helping with
the phones and orders. Even so, with nine products we may be the most
prolific company for Atari, now that Michtron has bit the dust.
DABRUMLEVE> Well, our office has seven bedrooms. Big enough for you? I
do have an educational consultant and over 300 beta-testers...
Gordie> So it's important to note that every sale you folks make is
noticed. Where Microsoft, et al, can afford a certain amount of
'preview' copies, whereas, you folks can not.
DABRUMLEVE> No, every borrowed copy hurts.
Nathan ISD/IAAD> More accurate would be to say that every single sale
that we make is important. None of us can afford PIRACY, or more
accurately, none of us are Microsoft, and PIRACY could affect the very
manner in which we can afford to support our products!!
RMORROW> Why would schools that already have Apple stuff be willing to
reinvest in Atari programs, no matter how much *better*?
DABRUMLEVE> I bet that's for me. Apple machines are archaic by today's
standards. There is a _lot_ of educational software available for the
Apple, and some teachers are still satisfied with it...but not the ones
who see what's available for the ST. So, when a school is ready to
update its hardware, it is likely to look at the hardware from the same
manufacturer (Apple). But the cost-performance situation with the basic
Mac and the basic ST is just no contest: The ST has color, which is
really important with smaller children. And the Mac educational
software is no more innovative than the Apple edsoft was. The stuff for
the ST is a world apart, and teachers who have worked with the other
know it immediately. I think there is a great market for the STe in
education. I have thought all along that that was where Atari's low-end
machines belonged. I'd like to ask Bob Brodie to comment if I may
Gordie.
BOBBRO> Well, in addition to Dorothy's already well thought out
comments, I'd like to point out that developers are starting to drop the
Apple II line. Electronic Arts, for example, is dropping the entire
Apple II line, including the GS. So the schools are indeed going to be
looking for another platform to carry out their work on. For the
elementary end of things, we've got good things to talk about with
software like Dorothy's. And on the college end, in specific areas,
we've got GREAT things in DTP, CAD, image software, etc. The biggest
thing that we have to do is combat the middle ground in high schools.
Actually, one of the biggest customers that we have is an educational
VAR that has placed THOUSANDS of STs in school districts throughout the
US. Computer Curriculum Corp. sells the ST as it's own product, though.
The Atari label isn't seen anywhere on the device. They instead sell a
COMPUTER CURRICULUM LEARNING STATION that is in reality a 1040 ST.
Tom at ICD> Bob, What kind of incentive plan does Atari have for
educational purchases? i.e. IBM or Apple discount programs.
BOBBRO> At this point, we don't have one, Tom. But in every instance
that I have been contacted by a college student asking for such a
program, I... (BOB's signal was lost at this point)
DABRUMLEVE> Maybe Bob was about to say he pointed out that the STe is
already priced so low that it doesn't need an incentive program. One
thing I as a VAR point out to teachers is that by buying our STe bundle,
they can have a computer AND 11 programs for the price of 11 Apple
programs alone.
Tom at ICD> But consumers need a discount! IBM gives 40 to 60% off.
DABRUMLEVE> With the STe they get one Tom, ask ANY dealer! The list
price is discounted compared to those other platforms.
BOBBRO> Fell offline, sorry. Anyway, what I was saying is that in every
instance where I have checked with a college student, we're still
cheaper than the discount...
Raven> I wanted to know if Dot would pursue language tutor prgs?
DABRUMLEVE> I've thought about that because I am a linguist, but
actually there are some fine ones already, even a very good PD one.
ZISSIS> How well do you think UNIX based software will interface with
the ATARI TT?
BOBBRO> Sounds like one for me. We are working very aggresively on UNIX
at Atari. We have hired an group of UNIX experts to help us in this
market. We have licensed ATT System 5, currently working with Release
4.2 (so far as I know), and it is working fairly well. We have also
hired a UNIX marketing expert who is now learning about TOS from us
(grin) while he shares some of his UNIX expertise with people like
myself. I expect to see UNIX developer packages go out late in June to
developers that we know are intersted in this type of support from
Atari. We have already attended several UNIX specific shows, and find
that there is considerable interest in UNIX on our platform. I
personally find that very encouraging.
CHRYSTAL> Is the ST a West Coast educational phenomenon? As one with
many years of school experience, I have NEVER seen an ST of any stripe
in a classroom (in Conn. or NY or for that matter, Michigan). Also,
since Bob Brodie is here, how about enlisting college students to market
STs to their peers? Just an idea... :)
DABRUMLEVE> I am aware of entire school systems in Milwaukee and Detroit
with STs. And locally, we have three schools with STs right here in the
heart of Illinois. I think the ST is kind of "invisible" in some
schools. Like Bob says, there are many that don't even have the Atari
markings, so you may not be aware of them even if you are looking at
them.
BOBBRO> We sell the machines to CCC, who in turn market them all over
the USA. Re the idea of marketing through college students, not a bad
idea, but we'd need a lot more people to make that work. For the time
being, I'd rather concentrate on just having the machines for sale in
the bookstores on campus.
.BobT@KC> Are user groups doing enough?
BOBBRO> Bob, I think the user groups are on the balence, very helpful.
Of course, there are both ends of the spectrum in that area. There are
some that would love me to show up, so they could hang me. And there
others that are still very excited about their machines, and want to
hear "the latest and greatest". Naturally, the latter groups are the
ones that I tend to gravitate toward.
Tom at ICD> If I may comment, an Atari supporter was asking earlier
about the "Atari trade in program"... I think it would be a big help if
that Atari user, instead of trading his old computer to Atari, was to
convert some novice into a new Atari user by selling him his machine.
That would take some of the marketing load off of Atari.
BOBBRO> Actually, I was wrong when I said that there were no plans for a
trade in. We are in the process of putting together an 8 bit trade in
program that would allow them a very cost effective means of upgrading
to an ST. But from ST to STE is a different issue, I'm afraid.
****
Remember that Delphi's 20/20 Advantage Plan gives you 20 hours of online
time a month for $20, with additional hours at just $1.20 per hour.
Those big downloads cost a lot less at $1/hour! If you're already a
Delphi member, type GO USING ADVANTAGE for more details. If you're not
a Delphi member, why are you paying so much for your downloads? Join
Delphi now!
=======================================================================
CODEHEAD SOFTWARE UPDATE
------------------------
Latest Versions and Prices
=======================================================================
5/30/91
PRODUCT VERSION MANUAL RELEASE NOTES PRICE
HotWire 3.0 1.3 2.3 $44.95
MaxiFile 3.0 2.0 3.0 $44.95
HotWire Plus (includes Maxifile) $69.95
LookIt & PopIt 1.2/1.1 1.0 $39.95
G+plus 1.5 1.2 $34.95
CodeHead Utilities 3 n/a Release 3 $34.95
MultiDesk 2.2 2.0 $29.95
MidiMax 1.3 1.0 $49.95
CodeKeys 1.3 1.1 $39.95
Shipping & handling charges on the above items are as follows:
Addresses in USA $3.00
Addresses in Canada $4.00
All other Addresses $6.00
UPGRADE POLICY
MaxiFile updates are $15.00 (which includes the 67-page addendum
manual). All other updates are $10.00 for each disk and $5.00 per
manual. If you are updating HotWire and have the old red and black
manual, you'll need the newer manual. If you are updating a version of
MultiDesk less than version 2.0, a new manual is mandatory. These
charges include shipping and handling. You must send in your original
disk plus check, money order, or credit card number (with exp. date) and
we will make every effort to send your upgrade back to you the same day
we receive it.
=======================================================================
BLACKJACK PLUS 3
----------------
Press Release
=======================================================================
NEW! ----> " BLACKJACK PLUS 3 BASIC" <---- NEW!
Atari ST (Color & Mono) suggested retail: $39.95
IBM PC & compatibles (EGA/VGA) " " "
HERE IT IS - THE PERFECT WAY TO LEARN THE BASIC GAME OF BLACKJACK!
Practice alone, or play with your friends using joysticks, mouse and/or
keystrokes. Just like being at the casino!
The 'Basic' version includes:
A preset basic playing strategy
Programmable win/loss betting strategy
Programmable insurance selection
All features of the advanced program except as noted below
The 'Basic' version does not include:
Programmable playing strategies
Programmable counting systems
Play log and save setup features
OF COURSE, WHEN YOU'RE READY -- YOU MAY UPGRADE TO "BLACKJACK PLUS 3"
& GET ALL THE ADVANCED FEATURES!
Call or write for upgrade details. Check out the demo (self-executing)
in Library #10 of the ST RT: File name: BJP3DEMO File #: 18758
UPDATE --> "BLACKJACK PLUS 3" Version 1.2 <-- UPDATE
Atari ST (Color & Mono) suggested retail: $89.95
IBM PC & compatibles (EGA/VGA) " " "
MUSICODE is determined to provide users with the ABSOLUTE BEST casino
blackjack program available anywhere! So, we have added even more
advanced features, expanding your ability to set up virtually any
playing, betting and counting strategy. Use those from Canfield,
Revere, Thorp, Uston or come up with your own!
VERSION 1.2 enhances the programmability of the card counting strategies
with the following changes:
You can now set the value of each card for the running count
Select from various methods to determine the true count
(As before, playing and betting decisions are programmable based on the
true count)
Use an Ace side count adjustment for betting
Make insurance decisions based on the count
No longer are you at the mercy of the casino, now you'll be ready!
More than just another game, BLACKJACK PLUS 3 can show you why you have
lost in the past and teach you how to WIN in the future! This program
provides realistic casino play, plus 3 additional playing modes to
quickly examine how different strategies perform. Examine the play log
and statistics to determine a winning style of blackjack play. Play
alone or with friends, use mouse, keyboard or joysticks!
You may specify:
One to seven active players (just like at the casino)
Each player's mode of play (see 'Play Modes' below)
Each player's play strategy (non-counting strategy)
Each player's betting strategy (win/loss strategy)
For the advanced player:
card-counting strategies (see NOTE below)
How many decks to use (1-9) & dealing depth (when to shuffle)
Casino rules (not all casinos use the same ones)
Playing speed (your comfort level)
Display card totals?
Display card counts? (Running count, true count, # of cards left, # of
Aces, adjusted count)
Keep a log? (All play action is recorded)
Extended statistics display? (Information calculated for you)
Print log and statistics for evaluation?
Save all setups to disk?
NOTE: A player's card counting strategy may use any counting system:
Programmable running count
Selectible true/exact count adjustments
Count adjusted playing and betting strategies
Ace side count adjustment for betting
Insurance decision based on count
ALL ASPECTS OF THE GAME OF BLACKJACK ARE SUPPORTED!
You always have the option to:
SPLIT ANY PAIR
DOUBLE DOWN (according to casino rules you set)
DOUBLE after SPLIT
TAKE INSURANCE
SURRENDER
You can lower or eliminate the casino's odds by practicing the game.
Learn why you have lost, and how to win next time!
PLAY MODES:
MANUAL - you play the game, just like in the casino
AUTO - play is automatic, by chosen strategy
FEEDBACK - you are informed of mistakes in play
BACKGROUND - test strategies quickly (100 hands-8 seconds)
BLACKJACK IS ALWAYS FUN TO PLAY, ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU WIN!
Check out the demo (self-executing) in Library #10 of the ST RT:
File name: BJP3DEMO File #: 18758
Ask your dealer to order for you, or contact:
MUSICODE SOFTWARE
5575 Baltimore Drive
Suite 105-127
La Mesa, CA 91942
(619) 469-7194
=======================================================================
Z*NET SOFTWARE SHELF
--------------------
by Ron Berinstein
=======================================================================
Some little files for your ST:
ST_TYPE.ARC Ever wonder what brand of ST you have ? ST_TYPE will tell
you everything you wanted to know about what type of ST you've got.
CO_PILOT.LZH Listed as some kind of flying game in the file
description, this game isn't a game, rather this little program when
installed will ring the system bell and remind you to do whatever the
text file that you wrote describes. So if you like the idea of having
a co-pilot read you a checklist of things not to forget, d/l this,
otherwise, forget it. :)
IBM_FONT.LZH This file will replace the ST font with an IBM font. Can
be used to display IBM extended characters when calling BBS's.
PCHROME.ARC An acc. that lets your alter the pallette in any GEM
situation. Can load and save pallettes as well.
For you when you make a mistake on your ST!
SALVAGE.ARC This program is designed to assist in salvaging floppy
disk files that were produced by a text editor or a word processor when
the FAT tables or Directory on the disk have been trashed.
For you when you want your ST to "Look Good."
RAYTRAZ.ARC is a full working version of GFA Raytrace that came from a
British magazine disk.
FERNY.LZH This program allows you to look at some fractal shapes. You
can change the parameters to get different pictues, as well changing the
size by pressing 'S'. This works in the TT Medium resolution and
supports the math coprocssor.
GIFTOPS.LZH A little utility that will convert ANY GIF picture file
to a PostScript file which can then be printed on any PostScript
compatible printer (or with UltraScript and an Atari SLM804). This
program does an excellent job of converting and the resulting PostScript
files look very good when printed on a laser!
For you when you want to work!
BSTAT240.LZH is one of the more sophisticated ST programs. The manual
is some 175+ pages! B/STAT is a graphing and statistical analysis
program. It does require 1 megabyte and a double sided drive. When
this shareware program is registered you receive the manual as well.
This is an in depth program!
For you when you want to play!
BICYCLE.ARC will give you the information you need if you own a bicycle
that has more than 6 speeds. Many folks don't know which is the proper
order of the combinations of gears from lowest to highest. This program
calculates the ratio of all gears to each other and puts them in order.
It then tells you how much distance you travel in each gear per turn of
the pedal crank.
TENNIS.ARC One of the few games uploaded recently. This is a tennis
game from the U.K. Color only.
TRON1MEG.LZH Lamatron! -- a terrific shareware game from England, with
great graphics and digitized sound. Reminiscent of the arcade classic
Robotron. Requires at least one megabyte of RAM.
CHORDEX.ARC Chordex is a little chord finding program. It's not too
feature laden but it will show you chord shapes on piano & guitar.
And for when you wish to talk...
DTERM_1K.LZH Dterm was written to replace ST-Term as the terminal
program availible from inside FoReM BBS but works well as a stand alone
term program. Dterm is fast and easy to use, because it uses Gem and
powerful with alot of the better protocols built-in. One of the nicest
features of Dterm is Auto Zmodem.
QDIALR13.LZH Q_Dialer Version 1.3 - a great phone dialer...Works well
with Dterm.
DESKPAC.ARC is a nice little desk acc. that can dial, format, copy, and
do more as well...
XYZ21.ARC is the latest upgraded version of the now well known XYZ
shell, and of course it sports new features.
And for when you want to be productive..
STEXT15.LZH SText 1.5 file viewer. Now has support for MAXIFILE's
multiple file selection and has shell like features. This viewer has
block functions like save to disk and print. Also has find, indexing
for STReport and GEnie Lamp, and other features.
QROFF.LZH Qroff is a very simple text formatting program. Originally
written by David Parsons (Orc) to format the STadel BBS program
documentation, it takes a text file with embedded formatting commands
and outputs it in a form that can be printed as a final document.
Similar in a very basic way to the TeX document processor.
DIRDRV.LZH An excellent disk/file cataloging program. Show/sort files
by several criteria, including size, attributes, name, or extension.
Uses a GEM window and menu. Configurable and prints listings.
Intuitive, but read the documentation for some non-obvious features.
Handy little program.
F_SORT11.LZH v1.0 was just previously uploaded, but, there was a bug or
two. So, this is version 1.1. This program sorts ANY ASCII file!
KCL.LZH is the source code to Kyoto Common LISP interpreter.
Originally for Unix. Read documentation for copying restrictions.
MACH2GFA.ARC This little program translates machine code to GFA Basic
commands. This might be a good "learning tool."
FPPRNT.ARC For users of the HP Laser Jet IIIP printer. The author
thought that maybe the system would run faster without a print spooler.
He wrote a little printer character output routine that patches into the
TRAP 13 vector to just output characters to the printer port a bit more
efficiently than TOS does.
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.
=======================================================================
GRIBNIF SOFTWARE UPDATE
-----------------------
Press Release
=======================================================================
For Info Contact: Gribnif Software, P.O. Box 350, Hadley, MA 01035
Tel: (413) 584-7887 Fax: (413) 584-2565
GRIBNIF SOFTWARE WILL NOW CARRY STRATA SOFTWARE'S STENO AND STALKER
SOFTWARE FOR THE ATARI ST/TT
HADLEY, MA -- Gribnif Software announces that effective immediately they
are taking over all marketing, distribution, support, and promotion of
Strata Software's STeno and STalker software products for the Atari ST.
Gribnif will release new and enhanced versions of these programs, which
when combined with Gribnif's effective marketing and strong support will
give these excellent packages the market recognition that they deserve.
First to be released will be a new version of the STeno text editor.
This powerful GEM based text editor makes any text editing job a breeze
and includes features normally only found in more expensive word
processors.
This will be followed by the release of a brand new and powerful version
of the STalker terminal program. This new version will combine a
powerful script language, terminal emulations, new transfer protocols,
and GDOS support, making it one of the most powerful terminal programs
for the Atari ST/TT.
STalker and STeno are trademarks of Strata Software. Exclusively
marketed and distributed by Gribnif Software.
GRIBNIF SOFTWARE RELEASES NEW STENO TEXT EDITOR PROGRAM FOR THE ATARI
HADLEY, MA -- Gribnif Software is proud to announce the immediate
release of a new version of the STeno text editor for the Atari ST/TT,
recently acquired from Strata Software.
This amazing GEM based text editor runs as both a desk accessory or
stand alone program. It is fast, easy to use, and incredibly powerful.
It even includes features normally only found in more expensive word
processors.
STeno also has the impressive ability to display its entire menu set
inside its own window. This allows complete access to its drop-down
menus while running STeno as a desk accessory. Other features include
the ability to interact with the popular STalker terminal program and
the NeoDesk 3 desktop replacement.
The program is being released with the low introductory price of $29.95.
It is available directly from Gribnif Software or through normal Atari
software dealers and distributors.
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PORTFOLIO USERS UPDATE
----------------------
Compiled by Ron Kovacs
=======================================================================
(Editors Note: The following short articles have been combined in this
column and all pertain to the Atari Portfolio.)
NEW INTERNAL RAM UPGRADES FOR PORTFOLIO by Don Thomas
Thanks to Megabyte Computers of North Texas, there is now a way to
upgrade RAM of the Portfolio to 512K INTERNALLY. Megabyte Computers
confirmed that they are now prepared to provide this service to existing
or new Portfolio customers. The service, including parts and a 6 MONTH
WARRANTY, is only $350. All work is thoroughly tested.
Customers may send their Portfolio to Megabyte Computers, 909 Melbourne,
Hurst, Texas 76053. Within 14 days the work will be performed and the
unit returned COD via United Parcel Service. To save COD charges,
checks, money orders, Mastercard and Visa are welcome. Megabyte
Computers was founded in June of 1989 and is a wholly owned operation of
Topaz Enterprises.
Robert Thompson, President of Megabyte Computers, has extensive
experience with the complete line of Atari computers. The impressive
popularity of the Portfolio and the growing demand by users who want to
do more and more has led his organization to intensive work on an
internal memory upgrade. Mr. Thompson and his technicians have worked
and tested upgrade possibilities for several months with qualified
advise and assistance from Atari Computer Corporation. Their goal was
to provide cost effective reliability for their service. Megabyte
Computers has already received dozens of orders and inquiries within 24
hours of their announcement that they can provide the upgrade.
None of the powerful built-in applications are affected by the upgrade.
The internal C: drive may now be set to a maximum of 464K for greater
file storage capacity. Special attention to battery conservation has
been made and the expectation is that one set of batteries should
support the expanded RAM for up to 20 hours or more of continuous use.
Vice President, Herb Parsons, points out that their upgrade provides
greater RAM access without cumbersome peripheral attachments.
Megabyte Computers also offers new Portfolio handheld computers with the
memory upgrade for only $599.95. For more information call, (817) 589-
2950. To place an order, call (800) 845-8677. Users sending their
computers directly to Megabyte Computers should send the equipment
insured.
NEW PORTFOLIO PD OFFERINGS by Ron Kovacs
CBASE.ARC 26496
CUSTOM Base provides a way to transform the Atari Portfolio into a
versatile data collecting device. It permits Portfolio users to
designate a list of questions for others to answer easily. Stores the
info in a format compatible with the Address Book application.
FM.COM 7680
Atari's File Manager, a DOS shell which is user-friendly and allows
movement between a:\ and c:\ to be done quickly and efficiently. Its
greatest feature: files are listed in alpha order. It takes about 10k
of memory and is a TSR. File made available courtesy Atari Corp.
PGSH21.ZIP 8064
PGSHOW 2.1 is about 20% faster than 2.0 was. It's now about 9 frames
per second. I'm getting better at assembler. by Don Messerli Copyright
(c)1991 Software Vineyard. This program is distributed as FREEWARE.
PDD2.ARC 14720
A menu based controller for Radio Shack's Portable Disk Drive 2 (PDD2).
This program is user friendly, and runs on an Atari Portfolio, or an IBM
compatible computer.
HARDDR.ZIP 8704
This is the Portfolio version of the device driver that accesses the
Flashdrive hard disk through the parallel port. This driver works with
any size hard disk. Use the included utility to partition or format the
hard disk on the Portfolio. All other DOS utilities and applications
should work fine. The Flashdrive will install as drive D:, and higher
if you make multiple partitions.
PORTFOLIO TRANSFER CABLE - #1
This is the minimum configuration of a cable that will do parallel file
transfers from a PC compatible to an Atari Portfolio. A 25 pin straight
through cable works, but is too bulky for travel. This minimum
configuration cable needs only 6 wires. Both ends are male DB-25
connectors, and the connections are straight across.
2 - 2 Data 0
3 - 3 Data 1
11 - 11 Busy
12 - 12 Paper Error
13 - 13 Select
25 - 25 Ground (This can be any or all pins
18 through 25. I used 18 - 18.)
PORTFOLIO CABLE TO DICONIX
For those of you who would like to use the Atari Portfolio with a SERIAL
Diconix 150 Inkjet printer (and thus not have to lug a parallel
interface around) -- here is a cable that will work. The cable diagrams
I got from Atari and from Diconix did not work.
9 pin female 25 pin male
na 1
|--- 4 RTS
|
CD 1------------------------|
|
|--- 5 CTS
RD 2-----------------------------2 TD
TD 3-----------------------------3 RD
DTR 4-----------------------------6 DSR
GND 5-----------------------------7 GND
DSR 6----------------------------20 DTR
RTS 7--|
|
|--------------------------8 CD
|
CTS 8--|
SOFTWARE ALLOWS PORTFOLIO PALMTOP COMPUTER TO COMMUNICATE WITH PAGING
SYSTEMS
SUNNYVALE, CA (April 24, 1991) -- One of the most exciting Portfolio
palmtop computer applications to hit the market has been announced by
TekNow!, a Phoenix-based company that specializes in communications and
computer messaging products. The firm's new text paging interface
permits Atari Portfolio users to send messages to any alpha-capable
pager, anywhere in the world. According to TekNow! officials, the
SAMpage software and the one-pound Portfolio palmtop computer have
combined to produce the industry's first mobile dispatcher.
"What makes this technology so exciting is the fact that the
applications are almost limitless," said Ralph Tomeoni, TekNow!
president. "Users can range from municipal and government employees to
business and medical professionals--anyone who needs to quickly
communicate with others," he added.
The complete paging/communications system consists of the SAMpage
software for the Atari Portfolio and AlphaBox or PageRouter, an
intelligent alpha front end for paging terminals. Once installed, the
system will send a message using the Portfolio's auto-dial speaker,
which will generate DTMF tones.
The user simply selects the name of the person who is assigned a
specific pager from the Atari Portfolio address book, and enters the
message. The message is transmitted by holding the handset of any
office phone, pay phone or car phone next to the Portfolio's speaker
during the transmission of the message tones. The system's
communications module then calls the paging system and sends the page.
Tomeoni pointed out that a single message can be delivered to one or
many alpha pagers and added that the system is even capable of dialing
multiple paging systems.
"SAMPage and the Portfolio will open up a whole new world of mobile
communications and computing," said Tomeoni. "With this system, people
will be able to handle business decisions and opportunities more quickly
and effectively. We're all spending more time away from our desks and
phones," he continued. "With the Portfolio and an alphanumeric pager,
people can leave their offices and still be instantly informed when
messages are sent to them, rather than having to wait until they return
to the office to check their electronic or voice mail." Tomeoni added
that the Portfolio is ideal for this type of use because it's small
enough to slip into a coat pocket or purse.
About the size of a video cassette tape, the MS-DOS file-compatible
Portfolio operates on three "AA" batteries or an optional AC adapter.
The 16-bit hand-held computer has 128K of working memory and includes
everything a business professional needs to enter notes and reminders or
to store important addresses and phone numbers. In addition to the
Portfolio's built-in text editor and address book/appointment diary, the
system also includes a calculator and a Lotus 1-2-3 file-compatible
spreadsheet.
Priced at only $299.95, the Portfolio has serial and parallel port
options, so information can be uploaded and downloaded from almost any
personal computer. With the options, information can also be printed
out or sent by modem across town or across country.
Sold separately, the SAMpage software interface for the Portfolio
retails for $89.00, while the AlphaBox addition to any paging terminal
starts at $3,295.00.
For more information on TekNow! products or services, call or write
TekNow!, 1500 South Priest, Suite 101, Tempe, AZ 85281; (800) 899-7262.
For more information, contact Portfolio Marketing Department, Atari
Computer, 1196 Borregas Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94088; (408) 745-2000,
FAX (408) 745-2088.
Note: All of the above articles were captured from the APORTFOLIO
Forum on CompuServe.
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Z*MAGAZINE ARCHIVES
-------------------
June 1986
=======================================================================
LEDBETTER RELEASES MPP EXPRESS
MPP users now can get Express!! Keith Ledbetter released three versions
of Express, the terminal program. GO ATARI8 on CompuServe to get these
new versions.
ATARI PLANNING SUMMER PRODUCTS - June 5, 1986
Atari Corp. is holding some product announcements from the CES and
scheduling them for later in the summer. Compatible with the ST product
line, the new products will include a 3.5 floppy with 10MB storage
capacity, a super-hi-res graphics board with 1,000 line resolution and a
new sound chip. Other new products are memory and multitasking upgrades
as well as a new expansion box for holding the multiple upgrades.
ATARI'S 32-BIT MICRO COMING SOON - June 6, 1986
Atari has a 32-bit computer in development. The company recently signed
a Unix licensing agreement with AT&T and Atari chairman Jack Tramiel has
indicated that the new machine will run under Unix. When the new
computer is introduced, current ST owners will be offered an option to
upgrade their machines to use the Unix operating system. No release
date was specified for the new computer.
ATARI TO QUIT TAIWAN PLANT - June 6, 1986
Jack Tramiel is planning to shut down Atari's production line in Taiwan.
In remarks posted on a bulletin board service after he met with Atari
owners in Massachusetts, the Atari chairman said that under the right
conditions computers could be constructed in the US with the same cost
efficiency as in Taiwan. Tramiel set no deadline for the manufacturing
changeover but he did indicate the move was not in the immediate future.
Reprinted from Zmagazine #5 June 18, 1986
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DOUBLE-CLICK SOFTWARE UPDATE
----------------------------
Press Release
=======================================================================
CHECK OUT THE NEW OFFER ON DC SHOWER
Now getting Shower Power is even easier
COMING SOON
DC DATA DIET - Realtime compression of _all_ files. Double (or triple)
your hard disk storage, while using every single file the same as you
always have!
Absolutely no other product on the market does what Data Diet does, or
even comes close. In fact, no other product like Data Diet exists for
the Atari computers, anywhere!
100% compatibility! Any file above 2K can be Dietized!
Check out some test results:
File type No. of Normal Size Diet Size You save!!
files in bytes in bytes percentage
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Postscript (.PS) 9 1104706 234490 79%
PageStream (.DOC) 22 1230167 365157 71%
Various pictures
(some already compressed) 26 834488 625133 26%
First Word + (.DOC) 7 56609 26046 53%
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Don't buy another hard disk!
Retail price: $59.95
Availability: August 1991
NEW OFFER! NEW OFFER! NEW OFFER!
"Show us Shower, and we'll show you Power!"
Users are delighted at the power and flexibility of DC Shower!
The response to DC Shower has been great! If you haven't bought it yet
to experience 'Shower Power' yourself, we are going to make it even
easier for you to live the experience.
For a limited time only (until August 1, 1991) you can get DC Shower for
1/3 off normal retail price, and here's how:
Call us on the phone and say: "SHOWER POWER"
That's it! When we hear the magic words "SHOWER POWER," you instantly
get a 33% discount! Incredible!
If you want to respond to the offer by mail, just address the letter:
SHOWER POWER
c/o Double Click Software
PO BOX 741206
Houston, Texas 77274-1206
WHAT IS DC SHOWER! DC Shower is SHOW magic!
DC Shower replaces the GEM desktop SHOW FILE function with a variety of
DC Shower modules that let you view text files, binary files, 17
different picture formats, (even extract) ARC, LZH, ZIP and ZOO archives
and now (by popular demand) digitized sound files! (And more modules
are coming!)
OR, use the DC Pick desk accessory to view files in any GEM program.
- OR -
Use DC Shower directly from UIS 3.3 (simply drag a file to the <P>
button in UIS 3.3 and click on SHOW).
- OR -
You can install DC Shower as the ATERNATIVE TEXT VIEWER in NeoDesk 3.0
for even more power!
No other product on the market offers the flexibility of DC Shower.
No other product on the market works in conjunction with such a variety
of files and applications!
Fully compatible with all ST, STe and TT computers. 100% assembly!
NORMAL RETAIL PRICE: $29.95! Ask your dealer for a copy!
The special offer price is $22.95 (in the US) or $24.95 (outside US),
and includes shipping and handling for your convenience.
Texas residents add 8.25% tax
This special DC Shower offer ends August 1, 1991. Mail, COD, VISA and
MC orders welcome.
You can reach us almost everywhere!
Double Click Software
PO BOX 741206
Houston, TX 77274
Double Click Software : (713)977-6520
GEnie : DOUBLE-CLICK (CATegory 30)
CompuServe : 75300,577 (GO ATARIVend, area 13)
Usenet : uace0@menudo.uh.edu
DC BBS : (713)944-0108
=======================================================================
Z*NET ATARI ONLINE is a weekly magazine covering the Atari and related
computer community. Material contained in this edition may be reprinted
without permission, except where otherwise noted, unedited, with the
issue number, name and author included at the top of each reprinted
article. Commentary and opinions presented are those of the individual
author and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of Z*NET or
the staff. Z*Magazine Atari 8-Bit Online Magazine, Z*Net Atari Online
Magazine, Z*Net PC are copyright (c)1991 by Rovac Industries Inc,
a registered corporation. Post Office Box 59, Middlesex, New Jersey
08846. (908) 968-2024. Z*Net Online BBS 24 Hours, 1200 /2400 Baud,
(908) 968-8148. We can be reached on CompuServe at 75300,1642 and on
GEnie at Z-NET.
=======================================================================
Copyright (c)1991, Rovac Industries, Inc..
=======================================================================
