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Z*NET Online Magazine Issue 92-11
| (((((((( | Z*Net International Atari Online Magazine
| (( | -----------------------------------------
| (( | March 13, 1992 Issue #92-11
| (( | -----------------------------------------
| (((((((( | Copyright (c)1992, Rovac Industries, Inc.
| | Post Office Box 59, Middlesex, NJ 08846
| (( |
| (((((( | CONTENTS
| (( |
| | * The Editors Desk............................Ron Kovacs
| ((( (( | * This Week In Atari History..............Dr. Paul Keith
| (((( (( | * Z*Net Newswire........................................
| (( (( (( | * Flash 2 To Debut.........................Press Release
| (( (((( | * ISD Conference Highlights...................Ron Kovacs
| (( ((( | * Fasttech Conference Highlights..............Ron Kovacs
| | * Perusing GEnie...............................Ed Krimen
| ((((((( | * Glencon..................................Press Release
| (( | * Perusing CompuServe......................Mike Mortilla
| ((((( | * Atari Releases Hyperlist.................Press Release
| (( | * Home Accounts 2..........................Press Release
| ((((((( | * CeBit Report From GEnie...............................
| |
| (((((((( | ~ 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
| | ~ UK Columnist...............................Mick Jarvis
| | ~ Features Editor.........................Dr. Paul Keith
| |
|----------| $ 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:Texas (Hacker's Haven)(FNET 705)..(512) 653-3056
| | * Z*Net:Florida (Twilight Zone)(FNET 304).(407) 831-1613
| | Fido Address 1:363/112
=======================================================================
* THE EDITORS DESK by Ron Kovacs
=======================================================================
A few updates this week....
Perusing GEnie will NOT appear for the next few weeks while Ed Krimen
vacations in Europe. His pre-vacation last installment appears this
week.
We have received many updates to the Dealer Listing we ran a couple of
weeks ago. Please forward ALL corrections to Z-NET or ATARIUSER on
GEnie, 75300,1642 on CompuServe and Node 593 in email in FNET.
A new feature begins this week called THIS WEEK IN ATARI HISTORY. The
column will contain newswire extracts from Z*Magazine and pre-Z*Mag
releases we did in 1983-1985 and online magazines released in-between.
======================================================================
* THIS WEEK IN ATARI HISTORY by Dr. Paul Keith
======================================================================
1985 - ATARI MEETS BCS USER GROUP
The Boston Computer Society General Meeting featured Leonard Tramiel of
Atari, as well as Digital Research's Bruce Cohen, and Bill Bowman from
Spinnaker, and marked the east coast unveiling of the new 520ST
Computer. The meeting filled Boston's New England Life Hall to
capacity. Tramiel reiterated the specifications mentioned in previous
reports. I won't repeat any more than I have to. It appears that
Atari is still on schedule and is still predicting release of the new
machines in late April. Unfortunatly, Mr. Tramiel did not have a
formal demo package available with him, so the actual demonstration of
the machine was exceptionally weak. Tramiel described that the
versatility of the ST's was enhanced by the multiple ports which
include: 128K ROM slot, Hard Disk DMA Port (10 Megabit/Sec!), Floppy
Disk Port (Daisy Chain), Standard RS232C Port, Centronics Printer Port,
Monitor Output, RF (TV) Output, (2) MIDI Ports, In/Out, Joystick Port,
and Joystick/Mouse Port. Bruce Cohen, from DRI explained the GEM
operating system in detail, including how it was being developed in
other applications. He indicated that the IBM PC would have a GEM
system available in April.
1985 - 32-BIT ATARI PLANNED
The first look at the new 32-bit Atari computers will come in April at
a computer show in Hanover, Germany. Sam Tramiel privately confirmed
that this machine would utilize the new National Semiconductor 32032
and would be a "VAX in a box." The next step for Tramiel, after his
current plans, is to "turn around mainframe technology for a hand-held
computer."
1987 - ATARI IBM CLONES
The ATARI IBM CLONES may NOT be a reality, on the other hand... for a
while, anyway. Two problems are are the major hangups: negotiations
for GEM for the machine, and FCC acceptance. Neither area has had any
positive movement, despite ATARI's optomistic projected "spring '87"
release of the $500 do-it-all PC compatible.
1987 - ATARIFESTS IN TROUBLE
AtariFests for Detroit and Chicago are in trouble. After a long seige
of difficulty in negotiations with Atari, Detroit's 400-plus member
M.A.C.E. club threw up their hands and pulled out of the effort,
cancelling a planned August '87 show for the Southfield Civic Center.
1987 - MORE PANIC IN DETROIT
Antic Magazine's publisher Jim Capperell wrote to Detroit's M.A.C.E.
to notify them that they had to remove any and all ANTIC programs from
their BBS. He reaffirmed that they are copyrighted, and to exchange
them is PIRACY.
1987 8-BIT DOS ON A CART
Mike Wheeler of Alaska has put Atari DOS 2.5 on a cart and added true
double density support and a ramdisk handler. Although it is memory
- greedy (16k when resident), the cart can be switched out manually.
1989 - TOS 1.4 UPDATE
All developers should take note that the latest release of TOS 1.4 is
the December upgrade. This will be the version that goes to Eprom.
Developers should contact Cindy Clavern for more information.
1989 - WORLD OF ATARI
The Anahiem World of Atari show has been expanded from 12,000 sq ft to
28,000 sq ft. At the same show, there will be a live concert after
with Fleetwood Mac and 2 other name groups.
1990 - ATARIFESTS TO BE MORE CAREFULLY SCHEDULED
Atari has discussed and announced the intention to exert more control
over scheduling of Atari shows that request Atari's involvement. After
some hard lessons last year that resulted in the cancellation of both
user and commercial shows due to time conflicts, Atari now intends to
firmly stand behind a policy of NO SHOWS WITHIN 30 DAYS OF OTHER SHOWS.
1990 - ATARI SOFTSOURCE READY TO GO
Charles Cherry, Atari Corp Developer Support mogul, says that the
SOFTSOURCE Program is ready to premier on a major telecommunications
network. The system is 100% completed and is in private testing to be
sure that it is fully operational when it is formally introduced in
April.
1990 - DAVE SMALL/HAPPY COMPUTER LAWSUIT SETTLED
A groundbreaking lawsuit involving charges of defamation via
international telecommunications message systems was settled by a Court
Order that also forbids the parties to discuss the details. Dave Small
of Gadgets By Small was sued by Richard Adams of Happy Computer over
statements posted as messages on GEnie last year.
1990 - 68030 ATARI LIKELY TO BE SHOWN AT WOA DISNEYLAND
Late word from TWO locations both point to the 68030 computer(s) to be
shown at the Anaheim World of Atari... one from Atari (the TT) and one
from Dave Small.
1990 - ATARI REPORTS NET INCOME OF $5.7 MILLION
Atari announced last week that income from continuing operations of
$5.8 million or 10 cents per share on sales of $170.6 million for the
quarter ended Dec. 31, 1989.
1991 - ST "GEMULATOR" IN PROGRESS FOR IBM
Darek Mihocka of Branch Always Software (Quick ST) has confirmed rumors
that he has a functional 68000 emulator working on an IBM platform.
1991 - APPLE STRIKES BACK AT SCHOOLS AND ATARI NEW ZEALAND
Apples distributor in New Zealand CED, hit back this week at claims that
they are over charging the education sector for their products.
Responding to the criticism from Alex Davidson the Managing Director of
Software Supplies (the New Zealand Atari distributor) Mr Crowe of CED
said "At $NZ1895 the Macintosh Classic are as inexpensive as any machine
on the market".
1991 - CEBIT '91
Atari surprised everyone with their announcement and demonstration of
two exciting new 68000 based computers. ST Notebook - This is to be
the smallest 68000 based computer in the world. Its size rivals any PC
Notebook style computer. ST Pad - This is similar to ST Notebook and
shares most of the features but has a futuristic interface. Although
Z*NET has not received final reports from several correspondents at the
Hannover CEBIT computer show, early comments include more hints and
announcements of new hardware from Atari. Spied or discussed were:
CDAR-505, a new CD-ROM player to be released SOON; "ATARIFILE 200", a
Megafile with 200 meg hard disk (the clumsy name will be changed, but
the "Megafile" moniker will be abandoned soon as well); TT030 machines
with 28 meg of RAM and 1.2 GIGABYTE hard drives, available this fall;
UNIX for the TT030; IBM emulation for the TT; and more.
1991 - DIAMOND BACK II
Oregon Research Associates announces that it will assume the
distribution and support of Diamond Back II effective immediately. To
celebrate this occasion, Oregon Research Associates will release a
major new version of Diamond Back II.
1991 -THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST ATARIFEST ANNOUNCED
Vancouver, Canada is hosting the first ever Pacific Northwest Atari
Festival over the weekend of June 15th. and 16th. 1991, to be held at
the Steveston Senior Secondary School, in the beautiful suburb of
Richmond, B.C.
======================================================================
* Z*NET NEWSWIRE
======================================================================
AT&T PROVIDES ACCESS
Anyone interested in AT&T's 1991 Annual Report may use the company's
"AT&T News On-Line" service to access the report via computer. This is
a database containing AT&T press releases, the AT&T Fact Book and, as
of this week, the 1991 Annual Report. Users may access the system
using any communications soft ware on a PC and a modem. Communications
should be set for 7 data bits, 1 stop bit and even parity. The system
operates 24 hours a day and provides access at two speeds, 1200 and
2400 bps. For 1200 modems, dial 908-221-8088. For 2400 modems, dial
908-221-2701.
IBM PLANS LOW-COST COMPUTERS
IBM announced this week that it plans to form a subsidiary to market
low-end personal computers in Europe that differ from current IBM
systems. The new PCs will not provide the same type of customer
service that is offered with existing IBM machines and will not carry
an IBM logo. Additional details about the plan will be available late
in the second quarter.
SPA ANNOUNCES SETTLEMENT
The Software Publishers Association announced that a settlement has
been reached in a software copyright infringement suit with Melco
Industries. The products involved in the suit were manufactured by
WordPerfect, Microsoft, Lotus, and AutoDesk. The SPA, speaking on
behalf of the manufacturers, cited instances of unauthorized copying of
software. Since 1988, the Software Publishers Association has filed
over 100 lawsuits on behalf of its members and obtained numerous search
and seizure orders against businesses, computer dealers, bulletin board
services, and educational institutions that have violated its members
copyrights. The SPA's anti-piracy hotline, 1-800-388-7478, accepts
calls reporting software violations.
WORDSTAR ANNOUNCES NEGOTIATIONS
WordStar announced that it is engaged in negotiations with Delrina
Corp regarding a merger of the two companies through an exchange of
stock. No agreement has been reached, however, regarding the terms of
any such transaction, including which company's stock would be used to
affect the transaction.
======================================================================
* FLASH II TO DEBUT Press Release
======================================================================
Missionware Software is proud to annouce the introduction Flash II at
the ACE '92 Show. We'll only be bringing a couple hundred copies of
the program with us, so make sure to attend early! See the official
show bulletin for complete pricing. And yes, we will be offering a
substantial discount for those of you wishing to upgrade from an older
version of Flash. You *must* bring your old disk along to qualify for
that upgrade.
Here's a list of just a few of the new features to be found in Flash
II:
* DO scripts are enhanced. Old script files continue to work with new
features added for support of Flash II's new features.
* DO scripts are no longer needed, however, for automating your logon
process. All board parameters are now set via dialogs. These
parameters are saved in the board configuration file and
automatically configure Flash II when the board is activated.
* Now permits the use of up to 30 function key macros. 10 macros are
considered global, and are accessed by holding down the Control key
and F1 thru F10 keys. The other 20 macros can be programmed
separately for each board and are accessed with the unshifted and
shifted function keys. The macros automatically load when the board
is activated.
* Flash II can be used to display, either on- or off-line RLE and GIF
pictures. (Particularly handy on CIS which permits the use of
online graphics viewing.)
* Includes a new Review Mode. Save your online session to disk and
later review it as if you were online!
* Supports the following terminal emulations: TTY, VIDTEX, VT52,
ANSI, VT100, VT101, VT102, VT200, VT300 & Prestel.
* Supports ST, IBM and DEC characters sets.
* Flash II is designed to work on any ST or TT, in any resolution,
from 80 to 132 columns, and 24, 29 or 48 lines.
* A new type ahead buffer is included. It supports up to three lines
of text which is fully editable using the cursor, delete and
backspace keys. The [Return] key and [Enter] key perform different
functions, depending on the configuration. One can be used to enter
forced carriage returns into your message, the other is used to send
the message.
* You can configure the amount of memory you wish Flash II to grab at
startup. Older versions of Flash grabbed everything available.
With multitasking on the horizon, you don't necessarily want to do
that. You can continue to <Free> unwanted memory once in the
program.
* Includes command support for an automatic answer mode.
* New, full-featured GEM text editor with more flexible block commands
(you can now start and end blocks anywhere in a line), cut & paste
commands, search & replace function, paragraph reformatting, user
tab settings and page widths, automatic word wrap & text wrap modes,
and much more.
* The editor now permits you to select the type of display mode
desired. Whereas older version of Flash always displayed carriage
returns, you can now turn those on or off, as well as all other
control characters.
* Almost all menu functions have keyboard equivalents, such as Alt-L
to "Load" a file. Where appropriate, these keyboard equivalents
match the terminal mode keyboard equivalents.
* Includes Silent Line, a new background file transfer program
(replaces "Shadow").
* Internally supports the following protocols: ASCII, Xmodem, Ymodem,
Ymodem-G, Zmodem, Modem7, WXModem, CIS B+, Kermit, SEAlink, and
Telesoftware (for Discovery/Prestel systems).
* Includes a new "Statistics" feature. Keeps track of all of your
online time and upload/download information, and calculates your
fees based on the BBS' rates.
* Includes built-in timing functions. Flash II will autostart an
online session using this timer.
* Includes a totally rewritten, 226 page manual, fully indexed along
with a table on contents. The manual includes a tutorial, detailed
section on all functions of the program, and a 50-page section
explaining (with examples) the DO script language.
See you in Booth #222 at the show!
John Trautschold
Missionware Software
======================================================================
* ISD CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS Edited by Ron Kovacs
=====================================================================
March 4, 1992
Calamus, one of the best (some say THE best) desktop publishing
products available for any computer platform, has recently gotten even
better with the release of Calamus SL. Here to tell us all about it
and to answer your questions is Nathan Potechin, president of ISD
Marketing. ISD is the North American publisher/distributor of the
Calamus family of DTP products. Let's get this rolling now...
Nathan, thank you very much for joining us this evening. Do you have
any opening remarks to make before I start taking questions from the
floor?
<[Nathan] ISD> Thank you for joining us tonight. I believe it fair to
say I am no longer an unknown entity online, especially on GEnie, as I
once was and I am pleased that you have all made time to join us. With
me this evening is Mario Georgiou, ISD's own Graphic Artist with 12 odd
years of experience (In Mario's case, I stress the term "odd") :-) and
Lou Rocha, a local desktop publisher, Editor of the Calamus SL manual
and a school Principal by profession.
Since we began filling backorders on Calamus SL almost one month ago
now, the action online in our Category 16, has become fierce. :-) We
have all been used to seeing 5 or 6 or even a dozen questions a day on
Calamus but NOW, 45 or even 60 new messages every single day.
We hope to have the last backorder out the door by the end of this week
and will finally begin offering the product for sale to the Atari
Dealers throughout North America, Australia and New Zealand. I made a
decision to satisfy our customers needs first, and now will spend the
next week insuring that all appropriate Magazines, both Atari and
generic DTP related, receive their review copy and the proper followup.
So, first came the customers, then the press, then the dealers. I
suppose I'll have to start advertising fairly soon too, judging by the
telephone calls I have already received on this subject. :-)
I imagine I did this sort of backwards but I must say I am very pleased
that I was in a position to do so and I will certainly take this
opportunity to thank all of our valued customers for all of their
support of us and our products over the years. Thank you!
Calamus SL - The new direction in Pre-Press and publishing systems.
Calamus SL offers a new concept in design and functionality providing a
greater level creative control than other publishing systems.
Calamus SL is a totally open system allowing for the addition of
modules for specific tasks.
Within Calamus SL, the complete world of desktop design and layout is
placed at your fingertips. Calamus SL integrates the process of design
and layout by standardizing the way you use different applications.
Calamus SL is an environment designed to fulfill the requirements of
anyone involved in the fields of Desktop Publishing, Prepress and
Graphic communications. The system has been designed to allow full
flexibility in terms of features, as such, Calamus SL is modular
allowing the user to add or remove features to their application when
they require them or to remove features when they have completed their
work.
Calamus SL has adopted a WYNIWYG philosophy, What You Need Is What You
Get. There are modules for autotracing, color separation and
calibration, data and document handling, the production of multimedia
presentations, image management and editing, and many others. The
software's capabilities make it a digital chameleon allowing it to
change to suite the environment it is used in.
Calamus has support for output devices ranging from dot matrix
printers, laser printers, color thermal, dye sublimation and
Imagesetters and Prepress Systems and technologies. Calamus SL's
vector outline fonts can be scaled as large as required. Through the
use of its own font rendering technology Calamus SL has true WYSYWYG
allowing the user to know exactly what their documents will look like
100% of the time. This built in rendering technology uses the same
font description for all display and output devices. Calamus SL has
high speed document output through the use of its own powerful Page
Description Language.
Calamus SL has built-in support for 24 bit color. Calamus SL has
support for RGB, IHS, CMY, HKS and CMYK color models and built-in Spot
and Process color handling with a variety of calibration options.
Up to seven documents can be loaded at the same time with interactive
clipboard functions allowing the transfer of elements from one document
to the another. Calamus SL also supports the import and export of
industry standard text and graphic formats.
Rotation of all Elements 360 degrees (Bitmaps are rotated 360 degrees
through a module for image management.
A user-definable autosave feature makes the complete loss of documents
an unlikely event.
Calamus's text capabilities include text alignment, kerning, tracking,
vertical justification, rotation, flow around graphics, style tagging,
widow and orphan control. A Text editing window allows for quick
editing with functions for hyphenation and spell checking, search and
replace, ruler and style definition, blocking functions with an undo
feature.
Calamus is capable of handling documents of unlimited physical size,
with lengths up to 99,999 pages. This is enhanced with built-in
virtual memory handling and File locking for the protection of various
elements. Open up to 7 documents simultaneously while using the
interactive clipboard for complete and easy passage of contents between
documents.
Calamus SL has approximately one thousand features with more on the
way.
<ELLIOTT.C> I haven't even seen Calamus yet ....wondering about kerning
- how much manual adjustment needed after Auto is done.
<[Nathan] ISD> Elliot, in most cases, the automatic kerning features
inherent within Calamus SL leave very little for manual adjustment.
However, if you should feel the need, you may perform adjustments in 4
directions, in 1/1000 of a point!
<ELLIOTT.C> Suppose I do "cj", turn the j into a superscript; in Quark
Express the letters would end up crashing.
<[Nathan] ISD> They would NOT crash in Calamus SL.
<C.S.SMETON> Nathan, What support for 3rd party module add ons exist,
i.e. Developer documentation for creating printer drivers, import file
filters, etc.
<[Nathan] ISD> Hi Charles. I did bring back serious docs on exactly
that issue but they remain in German. That is a problem. :-) Another
is that they keep adding to, enhancing and changing the code all the
time presenting a moving target. :-) This is a big priority of mine as
I am anxious to offer many interested North American developers, almost
all of which are my friends, :-) to write modules!!
<C.F.JOHNSON> You mentioned that SL can do color separations -- I have
2 questions about this: 1) does SL support the Pantone standard, and 2)
is there a service bureau in the US that can output these color
separations at high res, on film?
<[Nathan] ISD> We have not yet finalized an agreement with PANTONE
themselves although we do have the offer sitting in-house. I am once
again faced with a quandary over IBM type prices for my Atari product
:-) but we do indeed intend to be able to offer PANTONE as soon as
possible. In the meantime, we do have a few other color tables
available now, one of which is FOCOLTONE which I am told is VERY
precise! So the answer to 1. is not yet. As far as service bureaus,
the one bureau with an Atari workstation in San Francisco is Omnicomp
and offhand I don't know if they have upgraded to Calamus SL yet or
not. But they should have :-) so I will call them tomorrow. Obviously
we need more service bureaus out there capable of handling the Calamus
solution, which is something to which I will devote a great deal of
effort in the coming months.
<C.F.JOHNSON> Is FOCOLTONE a German color standard? I've never heard
of it.
<[Nathan] ISD> FOCOLTONE originated in Britain 6 years ago. It is well
known in Europe and is now getting established in North America. They
are said to have far more precise color matching than ANY other color
standards and are now available with those other well known DTP
packages like Quark and Illustrator :-).
<S.LAPHAM1> Since you seem prepared for common questions, could you
please shoot us the upgrade info (cost, etc.) from 1.09N? And since
I've only had 1.09N for a week, can I send in the upgrade cost with the
1.09N registration card to get SL?
<[Nathan] ISD> The cost is US $200.00 from 1.09N to SL but there are
other options available. And yes, please do upgrade when you send in
your registration card from 1.09N.
<S.LAPHAM1> I just bought a HP DeskJet 500C..is there a driver for it
in SL?
<[Nathan] ISD> YES, there sure is. I love having the right answers for
a change.
<K.BROOKS1> Why are the flags set not to use TT RAM with SL?
<[Nathan] ISD> Wrong, the default setting on the Calamus SL program
automatically sets the TT RAM flags. Did this get switched somewhere
along the line? Hmmm. I'll check.
<J.ARMSTRON20> Nathan, What about the Functions that are disabled in
SL. Like Spellcheck & Set Layout/Work Area.
<[Nathan] ISD> James, my apologies. There will be a new version
following the completion of the upcoming CeBit show in Hannover that
runs for 10 days starting next week. At the end of that time I expect
many of the features that had not been activated will now be up and
running. Spellchecking was absolutely 100% promised to be one of
those. These kind of inactive features will eventually all disappear
at no cost to yourself, other than shipping and handling perhaps but no
way I could delay the release of the product itself any longer without
getting hung. :-)
<D.KERR1> Could you please explain what PKS Write has over the text
editor in 1.09?
<[Nathan] ISD> The best feature that is now available in PKS Write is
the ability to modify layout from within the text editor. This
includes pre-tagging information on just about everything that you
could imagine. Besides, it also includes more advanced block
functions, ability to apply key bindings inside the editor, edit
kerning information, hyphenation and rulers and on and on. Drew, its
has LOTS more than the old Editor.
<[Drew] D.KERR1> I believe there are a thousand features in SL. You
mentioned "many more to come." Could you reveal any of those "many
more to come?"
<[Nathan] ISD> I will cover a few of the modules. I just happen to
have the proverbial block to upload. :-) Coming Soon.....
Type Art
This package was specially designed for the creation and manipulation
of Typefaces and Logos. This software facilitates control over a fonts
global kerning characteristics and specific kerning pairs. It also
allows for the autotracing of scanned lineart allowing Logo libraries
and fonts to be created. The tools allow the use of primitives and the
merging of component parts such as stems and serifs etc. Two fonts can
be in memory at any one time allowing the exchange and editing of up to
256 characters. Type Art also has built-in digitizer plotter support.
The tools are second to none including floating pop up tool menus and
very powerful mapping functions. A transformation calculator allows
the use of formulae while other functions include a text preview window
for the contextual fine tuning of kerning information, magnetic snap to
grid and guidepoints, online help, stamp, join and auto-outlining
functions and clipboards. This is the perfect tool for the Typographic
designer.
Outline Art 2
This product is for the creation of vector based illustrations using
lines and bezier curves. It has tools for typographic manipulation and
mapping. Outline Art 2.0 has 24 bit color support, allows type to be
put into circles, to follow freely defined paths, to be graduated or
mapped onto planes, and transformed or distorted. The use of
intelligent clipboard and calculator functions make this a typographic
special effects dream.
Dataformer
Dataformer is a series of modules specially dedicated to the export of
data from Calamus SL. The product allows the export of any element or
page from a document in a variety of formats. The first of two
Dataformer modules can export to the following bitmap formats - GIF,
IFF, IMG, PCX, TIF, TGA and the following vector based formats CVG, EPS
(with or without TIF headers), WMF, GEM, HPGL and DXF. More formats
will be added in time.
Crescendo
For music publishers the introduction of a package to convert an
I.M.M.A standard MIDI file to a notated text file for inclusion in a
document or for the publication of music sheets. The capability to
prepare notated pages within Crescendo using polyphonic notation makes
it a must for all music publishers.
Job Manager
This is a module designed for use by service bureaus or production
houses to allow the queuing of jobs. It allows the specification of
documents for printing and assignation of printing characteristics such
as mirroring, inversion, page selection, multiple prints, scaling,
resolution, pagination, color separation and output device selection.
Mount and Print
The specialist print module for Calamus. This module controls the
final output of your document. Create left/right offsets for magazine
production, collation, Imposition, tiling of pages, together with a
host of other specialized functions to define your complete printing
parameters to achieve optimum results.
Multimedia Module
This module is for the preparation of documents which include video and
sound data for the purpose of preparing multimedia presentations.
Purposely designed for the creation of product and advertising
presentations, this module allows the specification of sound sampling
rates of 6KHz to 50KHz. Video capabilities include control of playback
speeds, Intensity, Hue, Saturation, Dissolves, etc,. Future Modules,
specifications subject to change without notice, include:
Paint & Draw : a raster and vector graphic editing module
Curve & Line : an auto-tracing module for Monochrome, Grayscale and
Color Images, which will be an upgrade from Speed Line.
Logo Art : a special vector editor for company logos and a Barcode
generation module.
and about 95 others. It is my intention to release a few modules every
couple of months without fail for the next few years. And I fully
intend to meet that commitment!
<[John Nagy] Z-NET> I want to say that my testing on SL so far has been
a delight! It is much faster than I anticipated, even though I must
suffer along at ST speed... so far. ;^) SL is clearly a full-out
professional grade package. Which leads to my question... what about
"CALAMUS S"? Is it being dropped? Will 1.09N be the monochrome home
use standard for some time to come? It certainly remains as fine a
product for 99.5% of the uses a person could have at home... and at the
price difference (below SL), 1.09N remains the affordable choice... if
it is offered.
<[Nathan] ISD> Apparently, there will be a version called Calamus S.
Until it is actually finished and in my hand, I will keep quiet on it.
Once it is done and released, it will replace 1.09N without a doubt.
In the meantime, Calamus 1.09N remains an excellent desktop publishing
solution that still shines proudly on all our Atari computers!!
<[DOUG] D.HOPP1> I have ver.1.09.6 and overscan the text editor does
not work in overscan. Is this corrected in 1.09N or SL?
<[Nathan] ISD> I am sorry, Doug. I cannot be responsible for the
response of Calamus product with Overscan. I believe that it is
compatible with 1.09N but I literally have no idea if it works with SL
or not as I do not have Overscan myself. Sorry.
<BOB-BRODIE> Nathan, I've had visitors in my office on and off during
the CO, so my apologies if my question was already asked. Garry says
Hi, BTW. Would you please comment on the various color boards that are
available (or that are known to be in development) and their
compatibility with Calamus SL? IE Crazy Dots, Matrix, etc. Any
specific recommendations? What capabilities are available for our
users ie rez, colors, etc.
<[Nathan] ISD> I have just been told that Overscan works with Calamus
SL. Hi Bob. Hi to Garry. I am personally aware of the Leonardo from
Jay Craswell, the Crazy Dots board represented by Gribnif, the ISAC/
AlberTT combo by Jay again I believe, the Matrix cards and the
Cybercube cards. I cannot imagine any of those products NOT working
with Calamus SL and have personally seen both the Matrix, the ISAC and
the Cybercube Sunrise up and working. One of my close associates just
/sent me a note stating Calamus SL has been tested and performs nicely
on the Crazy Dots board as well.
Calamus SL has 24 bit color built-in. It will handle any variation of
same without a hitch. I do recommend that if anyone starts doing
serious color work, both on screen and output that they either purchase
a TT or an accelerator board like the TURBO 030 from Jim or Dave's SST.
<[Nathan] ISD> I would just like to take this opportunity once again to
thank everyone that has supported us over the years and a sincere thank
you for attending this evening and listening to what one die-hard Atari
Developer has to offer. :-) Thank you.
======================================================================
* FASTTECH CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS Edited by Ron Kovacs
======================================================================
March 11, 1992
Fast Technology's Jim Allen was the first to break the 8 MHz speed
barrier on the Atari ST with the commercial release of Turbo16. Since
that time, Jim has been wringing more and more speed out of the ST with
products like Turbo20 and Turbo25. But there's only so much you can
expect from a 68000 so Jim has added the 68030 to the Atari arsenal
with the much anticipated Turbo030 and the recently announced
TinyTurbo030.
If you folks haven't done so already, check out Category 4, Topic 11
starting with message 82 for more specifics about TinyTurbo030.
But in the meantime, we have Jim Allen here to tell us more about the
Fast Technology product lineup and to answer your questions.
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> Fast Technology is about to start shipping
the latest in a long line of great accelerator cards. I'll list what
is available and for how much:
Turbo20 a 20Mhz 68000 card....$329
Turbo25 a 25Mhz 68000 card....$379
STE adapter for these...$49
And now TinyTurbo030 a 40+Mhz very tiny 68030 card....$999
As an introductory price, the TinyTurbo030 will be available at the
fantastic price of $599!!!!
This addition to the lineup gives you a choice of speeds ranging from 2
TIMES faster all the way up to 6-7 TIMES faster than the stock ST!!!
The TinyTurbo030 is a real breakthrough product, putting more power in
a smaller volume than any accelerator maker has done before!!
The TinyTurbo030 includes a 40Mhz 030 at its heart, with a 32K 20ns
static ram cache, and Atari's TOS 206 operating system.
A stock 68000 chip is also onboard, so at the flick of a switch you can
go back in time and technology, and enjoy your favorite older software,
or run time critical music software.
The TinyTurbo030 comes in two different configurations, one for the
STs, which looks like a larger Turbo25 and another designed
specifically for STE/MegaSTE computers which is a simple plug in, only
a screw driver and pliers are needed!!
Two options are available, a super fast math co-processor, the 68882
50Mhz model, which we run at 40, 50, or 60Mhz!!!
And our own customized Virtual Memory software, which eats up 512K to
1Meg of your ST ram, but lets the system "think" it has up to 128Megs
of TT ram...even in your old trusty 1985 520ST!!!!
All of this is made possible by the great folks at Atari Corporation,
who have created one heck of a nice new TOS....TOS 2.06!!!!
So Fast Technology has a speed choice for everyone, and a price to
match every budget!!!
To take advantage of the super introductory price on the TinyTurbo030,
simply place and advance order before April 30th, 1992, and include a
deposit of 50%...so we know you're a serious customer!!! The
TinyTurbo030 is such a nice product, so well polished, that it comes
with a 30day money back guarantee!!!!
The Math coprocessor option is only $299, and for Dynacadd and Lexicor
customers, it offers a 30-50 TIMES increase in rendering speed...well
worth the price. Only a $50 deposit is required with the order.
The Virtual Memory option is also $299, which we pass on to the
inventor, and includes an upgrade to a 50Mhz 68030 chip...great price
for 50Mhz and 128Megabytes of ram!!! The deposit is only $50 also.
<JEFF.W> What are the functional differences between Turbo030 and
TinyTurbo030? Are there any compromises needed to fit it into so small
a package?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> The Turbo030 is a full size...5.5"x5.5"..
board for MegaST computers only, it has a sram cache to speed up mother
board activities...just like the TinyTurbo030 (coincidence?) and also
has 4 or 16 Meg of real 32 bit super fast Fast Ram. We'll be releasing
it in a week or two, and do another RTC on it....it's also $1495 ;-)
<[Steve] S.GOLD6> Would VM software slow down a system. Also when is
projected delivery on the Tiny Turbo boards.
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> The Virtual software does slow things down
a bit...compared to running flat out on the 030, but not enough to be a
pain. Anyone exposed to SUN 3/60 Unix workstations knows about how
much things will bog down, but the benefits outweigh the speed hit BIG
TIME. I'd HIGHLY recommend dedicating at least a piece of a fast
Quantum hard disk for use with the VM, it will require a piece of your
hard disk equal to the amount of "RAM" you're adding to the system as
VM. The faster the disk the better...dedicating a $250 LPS52 is not
unreasonable if you have older slow disks. The PCBoards are being
designed in New Hampshire now, then they'll go to Taiwan to be made,
then back here to be stuffed (surface mount parts) and then shipped!!!
This process will require 8-10 weeks. I wish I didn't have to go to
Taiwan, but I've had nothing but trouble with local PCBoard
manufacturers, quality is definitely not job one...bummer.
<[Dave] D.SHORR> Hi Jim, can your TT030 use an ST's existing memory as
32-bit RAM, or is the Virtual Memory option intended for this purpose?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> Dave, the VM software uses a piece of ST
ram, and "pretends" that it is official TT ram. So the control panel
CPX says....128Meg of TT ram!!! ;-) While the rest of your ST ram is
left available for use, like for video and SLM printers, etc.
<[Dave] D.HAEFNER> Can a MEGA bus be added to a stock ST via your card?
(To allow use of expanded video,etc) Or is this now obsolete, unused,
impossible, whatever? And have you tested Spectre GCR compatibility?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> Dave, JRI makes a nice FPU adapter card that
includes a Mega bus addon. The FPU part can be left un populated, and
you can use this in your ST, now, and after TinyTurbo030 ;-)
It lets you use a Moniterm, etc. But you'll need to do something
cabinet-wise, otherwise you'll have a big board hanging out on your
desk...not a good thing to do ;-)
<[Dave] D.HAEFNER> What about Spectre?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> The TinyTurbo030 works just fine on Spectre
3.0 now, but Dave will be coming out with a version 3.1 down the road
that should be a little more "030" aware. There are some potential
problems with critical timing areas, but I've used it and had little
if any trouble as-is.
<R.GUADAGNO1> The First, have you heard of any problems with the
CodeHead TEC board when using the TURBO-16 or ICD AdSpeed (in 16MHz
mode) on a MEGA ST?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> I have heard a couple complaints re:
Turbo20/25 in Germany, but nothing on T16. The Codeheads have T16s and
have tested them...it's a GO!!! If you do experience and thing, we'll
fix whatever is needed to make it work, not to worry!!
<R.GUADAGNO1> Second, My friend Mark (M.SANTORA2) won a TURBO-25 at the
WAACE show and would like to know when they will be back in stock?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> Marks unit, along with another persons, went
out days ago, the T25s took some time to polish 100% but now, they're
golden!!!
<[Sysop] JEFF.W> Is this a regular 68030 in the TinyTurbo030 or one of
the 68EC030s?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> Depends purely on what is cheapest at
purchasing time, we've been getting real 40Mhz units for LESS than our
Motorola rep can quote an EC for!!! ;-)
<[Sysop] JEFF.W> Are there any performance differences between them?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> Nope, only the MMU portion missing on the
EC, otherwise they're the same. In fact, I've done some surgery on
one, opened it up, and altered the connection of the MMUDIS signal
inside...using the RP package (plastic pin grid) the chip is actually
glued to a PCboard, with a small aluminum cover on it, you can pull it
off and mess with the insides!!!
<[John@Atari] TOWNS> Hi Jim. Just wanted to ask about Compatibility.
Have you had the chance to do some compatibility testing and how does
it fair? Is it more compatible than a TT? What kinds of things have
you done to make sure that your product is as compatible as possible?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> I'd say it's a "little" more compatible...at
speed...since it is always 24bit addressing mode. For instance, TEMPUS
1 and 2 work OK, in fact all the big productivity stuff does...except
Timeworks DTP 1. The key compatibility modes are, the roms answer at
$FC as well as $Ex, the unit is 24bit rather than 32bit as far as
address map is concerned. We've patched in all the TT equivalent MMU
and cache controlling code, cold booting, etc. And above all we've
kept the 68000 chip available, so you can switch back, and the TOS can
be set to be OFF in 68000 mode, so the motherboard roms will work...
TOS 1.0/1.2, etc.
<T.REYES> Can one increase the amount of SRAM cache RAM on your board?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> No, we did extensive research in cache ram
size over the years, and 16K of data space is really quite sufficient.
Any larger becomes inconvenient physically and too costly. Motorola
has found that 8K is actually the best speed/cost trade off.
<P.MARTZ> How do you get 16 Bit Ram to act like 32 Bit Ram? Sounds
like a pretty good option for those how don't want to buy a new
machine.
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> The application doesn't know what the ram is
actually, it only runs and accesses certain address ranges, the VM
software just fakes out the OS into thinking there is actually a bunch
of real chips out there, when there aren't any ;-)
You may order any Fast Technology products through either Fast
Technology, or through ISD Marketing, J.ALLEN27 or ISD Email here on
GEnie!!
<[Joe] J.MIRANDO1> Jim, in your press release you made mention of a few
enhancements to TOS 2.06 for the '030 boards. Are these enhancements
of use only to '030 users, or are they things that T16/20/25 users
could benefit from?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> We've put in a couple neat things. If you
have a real time clock, we put the bootup delay into the unused alarm
ram space, which lets you have a real user selectable boot delay...but
also user settable ;-) There's other things we do the same with, but
it's too early to talked about them. These all DO work for 68030 and
68000 ;-)
<[Joe] J.MIRANDO1> Sounds like you've been thinking these thing out
well! When will this be available to the public?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> The TinyTurbo030 will be about 10 weeks
away, the Turbo030 is only a few days away, and we have units in stock,
with 4 Megs of ram, and one HECK of a speed boost...like nothing you
can imagine ;-)
<[Steamy Wreck] MYECK.WATERS> I have a UK keyboard - any chance of
getting a UK TOS on this thing! <smirk>?
<[Jim@FASTTECH] J.ALLEN27> No sweat, just specify it with the order, I
have US UK and German versions!!!
I'd just like to close by saying THANK YOU for stopping by, and thank
you to all Fast Tech's customers for your patronage, you have made all
this possible.
======================================================================
* PERUSING GENIE Compiled by Ed Krimen
======================================================================
-=> In the "Atari Corporation Online" category (14)
-=> from the "Notebook and Pad?" topic (7)
Message 76 Sat Mar 07, 1992
D.FLORY [ALERTsys*Cop] at 00:12 EST
I had a chance to look at a production Notebook today. No chance to
use it but, that is one beautiful of piece of industrial design. It
looks _great_. A real class looking item. If it works as well as it
looks its going to knock some people on their collective ears. I can't
wait 'til I get a chance to actually buy one.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "Atari Corporation Online" category (14)
-=> from "Atari's New TOS 2.06" topic (8)
Message 92 Sat Mar 07, 1992
M.DRYSDALE [Drys] at 09:24 EST
All,
We've installed 6 MSTE 1.44 drive upgrades and as many 2.06 in STe
machines, here's some of the results/problems.
One MSTe does not work with 1.44 floppies BUT does work fine with 720k
floppies. The test cart confirms this. (Nice touch - the MSTe test
cart was all ready for 1.44 drives.) This same machine is NOW having
problems with its internal hard drive.
Have a STe (maybe two) that after installing 2.06 does not read disks
it read under 1.62. I think there may be "something" in the boot
sectors of the disks it will not read; not a virus, but a booter of
some kind.
In a related event, we have installed 2.05 (yes 2.05) in two STe
machines, one works fine, one had some problems.
And lastly for all you hardware hackers - have one customer who bought
the MSTe 1.44 kit and claims to have installed it in his STe. He is
using 1.44 disks with no problems. He installed the new ROMs, Ajax,
drive and rigged up some sort of 16MHz signal.
Mike Drysdale, TEAM COMPUTERS (Stumped with no answers)
----------
Message 94 Sat Mar 07, 1992
J.ALLEN27 [FAST TECH] at 12:26 EST
Since there is a peice of circuitry missing in the STE that the MSTE
has related to 1.44 drives, I'd doubt someone could just plug the kit
into an STE and presto! Tos 206 wants to talk to a device that isn't
in the STE and will "bus error" on an STE.
----------
Message 133 Wed Mar 11, 1992
J.PATTERSON3 [Ted] at 19:24 EST
I just got TOS 2.06 from a dealer, but without any docs. After reading
this topic I understand that I have to change some jumper positions (I
assume these are w101-w103) but I don't know what the positions should
be changed to. Presently I'm getting 3 bombs on boot-up.
Can anyone help me with the jumper positions?
Thanks, _____
/ed
----------
Message 134 Wed Mar 11, 1992
T.MCCOMB [=Tom=] at 20:42 EST
Chip EE goes in U102
Chip EO goes in u103
W102 -> Jumper 1 to 2
W103 -> Jumper 2 to 3
W104 -> Jumper 1 to 2
The above info is for an STE
In a MegaSTE
EE -> U206
EO -> U207
W201 1 to 2
w202 2 to 3
W203 1 to 2
-Tom
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "Atari Corporation Online" category (14)
-=> from the "TOS Utilities from Atari" topic (32)
Message 159 Sun Mar 08, 1992
A.WESTON [Alan] at 23:01 EST
I think it's time for Atari to release TOS 1.0 on disk ala the 8-bit
translator disk. What do they have to lose except for increased
compatibility?
----------
Message 160 Sun Mar 08, 1992
C.F.JOHNSON [CodeHead] at 23:50 EST
There is one very serious problem with using TOS 1.0 on disk, to fix
programs that are incompatible with newer versions.
If you have a hard drive, and have formatted one or more of your
partitions to a size greater than 16 Megabytes, switching back to TOS
1.0 is *VERY* dangerous. TOS versions before 1.04 did not support
partitions larger than 16 Meg, and if you do _anything_ that writes to
such a partition while running TOS 1.0, you *will* destroy all data in
that partition. And please note that just about every bootup manager
program writes to the hard disk during bootup - - so even if you think
you can be careful and not allow any writes to the disk, you can still
blow away your hard disk just by booting up your computer.
There are other problems, too; this is just the most serious one.
Charles
---------
Message 165 Mon Mar 09, 1992
TOWNS [John@Atari] at 16:23 EST
A support factor. TOS on Disk doesn't work the same way as it does
from ROM. There are programs that will work just fine with a version
of TOS in ROM but will fail on a disk-based TOS version.
We don't want support nightmares to deal with. The correct solution to
the problem of incompatible software is for the software companies to
fix their broken software. We (Atari) have made information on the
differences in TOS versions available to Developers.
We can't be expected to support someone else's bad programming
practices.
-- John Townsend, Atari Corp.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
(Gadgets by Small RoundTable)
-=> In the "SST/68030 for the ST" category (9)
-=> from the "SST/68030" topic (2)
Message 164 Mon Mar 09, 1992
SANDYSMALL at 00:20 EST
1. As of right now, we are backordered until May-June, depending on
the parts suppliers (I'm not counting on parts until I can see the
whites of their eyes).
2. Distributors will start getting SSTs around the end of March, so
Dealers will get them around the first part of April (more or
less).
3. We tested Supercharger last year at CEBIT, and it ran fine then.
However, I do not know what version it was, and I don't remember if
we might have changed something since then.
Regards, Sandy
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "Hardware" category (4)
-=> from the "Turbo16 from Fast Technology" topic (11)
Message 82 Tue Mar 10, 1992
J.ALLEN27 [FAST TECH] at 23:56 EST
Finally....... FAST TECHNOLOGY proudly announces..... TinyTURBO030
TinyTurbo030 is our entry level 68030 based accelerator for the Atari
ST and STE computer line. There are two versions, one for the ST, the
STE (including MegaSTE). They are identical in function and feature,
differing only in physical layout.
The TinyTurbo030 has the following features:
* Motorola's advanced "030" running at 40Mhz!!!!
* a spot for an optional 68882 FPU chip running at 60Mhz!!!
* Onboard 8Mhz 68000 chip for _100%_ compatibility, hard/software
* The most compact 030 accelerator design available anywhere
* Fits all models of the ST and STE line, even the STacy
* Optional Virtual Memory software for up to 128Megabytes of "ram"
* Super fast static ram cache design to speed up program AND video!!
* Makes your ST or STE up to 6 TIMES faster in real world use
* Equipped with Atari's new TOS 2.06, with some further enhancements!!
* Bundled with CodeHead Technology's QuickST acceleration software
* Specially designed to support and speedup Mega ST/VME video boards
* Fully BLiTTER chip compatible, works with them all!!!
* No auxiliary or replacement power supply needed!!!!
* Only 3.5" by 2.5", fits in the palm of your hand!!!
Fast Technology has been honing this design to perfection for a full
year now, we have numerous beta test sites and customers around the
world, so TinyTurbo030 customers are assured of solid performance and
a no-hassle installation and above all a _very_ high degree of
compatibility in 030 mode, and total compatibility in 68000 mode. When
you buy a TinyTurbo030 you are buying a proven design from the leaders
in Atari accelerator design!!!
The 68000 onboard the TinyTurbo030 lets the user boot up as a stock
machine, able to run any software, or use any peripheral which isn't
compatible with an 030 chip...simply at the flip of a switch!! The
68000 may also be set to boot off your original TOS roms, just in case
TOS 206 compatibility is in doubt.
The 030 is running at a minimum of 40Mhz, when the final printed
circuit boards are here, we'll decide on 40...42...46......
The Virtual Memory option is a sneaky software way of making your
system "think" it has lots more than the standard 4Megabytes of ram ST/
STE computers are capable of. This does require you to have 4 Megs of
real ram in your ST/STE, but for those who need ooooodles of memory,
that's no big deal. The Virtual Memory option also includes an upgrade
to the 50Mhz 030 chip and perhaps a bit high clock speed ;-)
There is a spot for a 68882 math coprocessor. We say "spot" because due
to height restrictions a socket is not possible in most ST/STE systems.
Here at Fast Technology we have the ability to install and remove PGA
chips easily, so being soldered in is not a problem. We use the PGA...
pin grid array...package because that's the only one the 50Mhz 882 chip
is available in. We've been using 50Mhz 882's at 60-75Mhz for months
without a single failure. The temperature range that desktop ST/STE
computers live at is low enough to allow this.
The TinyTurbo030 has been tested with Moniterm, ISAC, Matrix, Crazy
Dots, and a few other obscure video addon boards. When you dive into
the world of serious DTP and CAD work, and have invested in a big
screen setup, you REALLY NEED an accelerator.
The basic design of the TinyTurbo030 is similar to that of the now
"World Famous" Turbo25. A small super highspeed static ram cache
combined with a very fast 030 processor produces a very healthy speed
increase in a Tiny package. Combining the proven design of the
Turbo25, with the tremendous speed of the 030 chip seemed a natural,
and the TinyTurbo030 was born.
Using Atari's TOS 2.06 the TinyTurbo030 brings you the latest and
greatest of Atari's operating systems. This new OS has been enhanced
and made immune to speed, your system will feel like it was designed
from scratch, custom, just for you!! We've added some nice features
too, like a user settable boot delay, and other "goodies".
How fast is it? Take a look...
QINDEX 2.2, MegaST4, Blitter on, ST high resolution, QuickSTE(TT)
speed comparison versus Tos 1.4
Test TinyTurbo030 AtariTT
---- ------------ -------
Memory 497 812
Register 1024 827
Divide 1268 1024
Shift 4457 3661
Text 1032 894
String 5121 4756
Scroll 158 426
Draw 1508 1003
Tos 2.06 3.06
Mhz 40 32
Dynacadd 3D Cup 43seconds 50seconds
In real world use, like CalamusSL, the TinyTurbo030 is without question
faster than a fast ram equipped TT, just ask a Tiny user!!
How much does it cost?
The TinyTurbo030 has a list price of $999.00 US, compared to other
accelerators of similar speed on other platforms, like the Amiga and
Mac, this is a very reasonable price. But wait....
For a limited time only...till April 30th, 1992...the TinyTurbo030
introductory price is $599 !!!! Yes, only $599 will get upgrade your
ST/STE to the latest technology, with a massive speed increase, the new
Atari TOS, and still allow you to maintain total compatibility with
your favorite oldies!!!
The only requirement to lock in this price is that we receive your
deposit for 50%...$300...before April 30th. The other 50% due when
your TinyTurbo030 is shipped.
The FPU option is $299 ($50 deposit) and the Virtual Memory option is
also $299($50 deposit). Include with your order a COMPLETE description
or your system, and your option choices if any.
----------
Message 86 Wed Mar 11, 1992
J.ALLEN27 [FAST TECH] at 10:16 EST
To order a TinyTurbo030, send your order, a complete system
description, and deposit to:
Fast Technology
14 Lovejoy Rd.
Andover, MA. 01810 (508) 475-3810
TinyTurbo030....$599.....$300 deposit
68882 option....$299..... $50 deposit
Virtual Mem.....$299..... $50 deposit
Balance due when the unit ships. TinyTurbo030 comes with a 30 day
moneyback guarantee, if you're not completely satisfied with your
TinyTurbo030, simply return it. We are sure you'll have your socks
blown clean off!!
For customers in Canada, send your order to:
ISD Marketing
2800 John St., Unit #15
Markham, Ontario, Canada
L3R-2W5 (416) 479-1880
Both Fast Technology and ISD Marketing offer installation services, and
can make your AtariST installation a breeze, AtariSTE installation is a
simple plug in, requiring only a phillipshead screwdriver and needle
nose pliers. Other custom system modifications will be offered,
including installation of Wuztek.OPI high density floppy systems, ram
upgrades, and other "goodies" we're working on.
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
-=> In the "Hardware" category (4)
-=> from the "ICD's AdSpeed ST Accelerator" topic (16)
Message 254 Sun Mar 08, 1992
R.GLOVER3 [Rob] at 19:08 EST
Here are the AdSpeed/Spectre benchmarks you requested:
AdSpeed 16 MHz AdSpeed 16 MHz (Color) Mac LC SE/30 IIfx
----------------------------------------------------------------------
CPU 2.39 1.745 3.32 4.03 11.30
Graphics 2.31 1.732 4.39 5.38 8.53
Disk 1.04 .928 .76 1.41 1.48
Math 3.33 2.493 7.76 12.90 42.49
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Overall 2.19 1.652 3.58 4.80 11.62
Note that the Macs all have math coprocessors. Disk speed is low on my
machine because I have a dreadfully slow 405K/sec Seagate 80 meg unit
(soon to be replaced with a Quantam LPS240PRO (1197K/sec)!
Notice how much slower it is under color! On paper, it doesn't appear
to be that much slower, but it is REALLY slow.
For comparison, those figures assume a Mac Classic to be 1.0 in all
areas. An 8 MHz ST comes out to around 1.24 (approx) overall. This is
tested with Spectre 3.0 at the simulated 60 Hz VBI (default).
Rob
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
======================================================================
* GLENCON Press Release
======================================================================
On Saturday, March 28, 1992 CodeHead Technologies will be the special
guest for this year's first Glendale Atari Developers' Conference
(GLENCON). Atari's Bob Brodie drew a standing room only crowd at last
year's conference, and Atari personnel have been invited this year,
too.
The Glendale Conferences are sponsored by the User Group, H.A.C.K.S.,
but attendance is open to all ATARI Clubs and ATARI owners. Several
conferences are planned for this year, with the intent of
each to focus
attention on the design and use of popular and powerful software or
hardware for Atari computers.
The CodeHead Conference will be held in the 275 seat theatre above the
Glendale Public Library's Main Branch, 222 East Harvard Street,
Glendale, CA. The meeting will start promptly at 10:30 AM and is
expected to last three hours. Best of all, admission is FREE, but it
is on a first come, first serve basis only.
Take I-5 to the Colorado exit, go East a mile to Louise Street, turn
North, go one block. An alternative route is to take the 134 FWY to
the Central exit, go South a mile to Harvard street, turn East, go two
blocks. For more specific directions refer to the, 1991 or prior, L.A.
County Thomas Bros. Guide, Page 25-E5.
CodeHead Software is one of the oldest and strongest developers of
ATARI Products. John Eidsvoog and Charles Johnson are well know to the
ATARI community. In fact, there is a good chance that half the people
reading this announcement still owe them shareware payments.
Their extensive product list includes, HotWire, MaxiFile III, HotWire
Plus (includes Maxifile), MultiDesk Deluxe, CodeKeys, LookIt & PopIt,
G+Plus, CodeHead Utilities, MidiMax, MIDI Spy, Quick ST, Avant Vector
(with EPS), Avant Plot, Genus Font Editor, MegaPaint Professional,
Cherry Font Packs, TOS Extension Card, TOS Ext. Card - CPU or BUS
Bridge and TOS Chip Set.
As an added bonus, The Computer Network, a local ATARI Computer Store,
will be having an Open House in honor of this Conference. The store
plans to have other developers, including CodeHead and Omnimon
Peripherals, Inc. in attendance. Store manager and co-owner Mark
Krynsky will be spending the morning hours marking down prices and
unpacking special purchases for this Open House.
The Computer Network is located at 1605 West Glenoaks Boulevard,
Glendale, CA. Directions from the Library to the Store will be
available at the Library. The Open House will be from 2:00 PM to 7:00
PM, after the CodeHead Conference is over. If you have specific
questions about the Open House you may call Mark at 818-500-3900.
This Conference is a precursor to The Glendale Show. This year's show
will be held on September 12 & 13, 1992, rescheduled to a week earlier
than had been previously announced. More details will be forthcoming
as the show date grows closer.
John King Tarpinian, President
The Hooked on ATARI Computer Knowledge Society
======================================================================
* PERUSING COMPUSERVE by Mike Mortilla
======================================================================
"Knowledge is of two kinds. We know a subject ourselves,
or we know where we can find information upon it."
Samuel Johnson, 1709-1784
Nothing could more accurately describe what is perhaps the real boon of
telecomputing. When these little clumps of chips and keys hit the
stores "a few years ago," it was thought that they would prevent people
from communicating on a personal level. That was about as true as the
"fact" that owning a computer would eliminate the use of paper (ha!).
And on CIS, finding information is as simple as typing FIND xxx. This
could a little frustrating, not because it is hard to find information,
but because the results usually turn up more information than one can
assimilate in a single session. This week alone we were able to find
out about the kidney disease which struck out pet kitty, Spooky, and
how to discuss it intelligently with the vet (GO PETS). We also
discovered the forums for journalists. If you think there are a lot of
messages on the Atari forums, check out the forums for people who write
for a living!
On to our "little nitch" of Atari computing. We got a glimpse of life
in Japan by an American "turist." Sorin Cioara has been there for
about a year and a half and relates some experiences on CIS from the
Far East. We cringe when the US government spends $1000 on a toilet
seat, but in Japan, Sorin tells us that: "While some people have $1200
toilet seat covers (they wash and dry and keep your bum warm and they
have remote control) about 50% don't have flushing toilets. That's
right, every month the vacuum car comes by and cleans the 'pit'. What
happens to the 'grey water' you ask. It gets dumped in the nearest
creek, of course. This is happening at the same time as the people get
a lot of incentive to buy small (less polluting?) cars." Sorin also
tells us about areas of the country with an apparent split personality,
where some people live in the 21st century and others are stuck in the
13th century. And you thought the Atari forums on CIS were just about
computing!
Back to "domestic" problems, there is apparently some incompatibility
between some ARC shell programs and TTPs in use out there. We and
others have tried to de-ARC, de-LZH and un-ZIP files, only to find they
had "bad headers" and unknown compression "methods." The quick fix is
to run the TTP program and use the command line to explode the file. A
word of warning to those who don't read the READ.ME files. Along with
the usual shareware pleas, there are instructions (funny how that works
out!). There are frequently a number of "parameters" which need to be
entered before a procedure can be successfully carried out. For
example, in the ZIP.TTP, when the command line comes up, you'll need to
enter something like this:
"x zipfile.zip A:\" (or) "i A:\zipfile.zip foo.c"
Otherwise, you won't be able to do a thing! We don't know where the
problem lies, but we were able to eventually extract all the files we
downloaded so it's not insurmountable. If the shell authors are
reading this, they may want to fix the problem (maybe in exchange for
a little shareware payment?) <g>.
Jeff over at Intersect has been active in the Atari forums and we thank
him for offering his help when it's needed. But he also offers help
"before" it's needed. Consider his message on March 6:
"Fm: INTERSECT Software 76004,1577
To: all
Re: Connecting to a US Robotics or other 14,400 modems with a V.32
modem
Recently I've tried to connect to several 14,400 baud modems with my
Cardinal V.32 with V.42bis support. I've not had any success, the
symptoms were, connect tones and then a hangup at the protocol
negotiation stage (the CD light wouldn't light.)
I've found a way around this problem, turn your RS-232 speed to 9600...
this defeats the V.42bis negotiation and the connect never goes past
the 9600 (V.32) stage.
I guess the protocol negotiation hangs on a USR modem's 14,400
protocols.
Recently I've seen several postings about the problems with "different"
9600 baud modems connecting to each other. I scoffed at those comments
V.32 is V.32, there should be NO problem connecting, the USR modem
states V.32 support so they should connect with NO problems.
It seems that the problem occurs when a V.32 modem with Advanced
support (v.42 bis) trys to connect to a USR dual standard modem the
problem occurs if V.42 is enabled.
[Jeff]"
In answer to a later question Jeff continues:
"It could be the Cardinal 9600 baud modem at fault. Or it could be a
problem with when the US Robotics is in Answer mode.
Since the 9600 baud modems are relatively expensive I haven't had many
to use as test, to test which is at fault. I have a Supra V.32bis
V.42bis modem on order and testing connects to different modems is my
first project.
The messages I've read on different BBS's about problems with different
V.32 modems connecting at 9600 prompted me to leave the message.
[Jeff]"
We were just about to bash someone for telling a "gender sensitive"
joke, but when we read the following message from D. Stuart, we were
stopped in our tracks:
"Yeah. Goes over big at feminist conventions, huh! Sort of like
poking fun at ridgerunners in a W. Virginia bar ...
Actually, I lost my sense of humor the other day along with a load of
lumber that cracked my skull, fractured a collarbone, broke several
ribs, and altered my usually handsome and distinguished appearance
considerably. Mostly, though, it just hurts like hell when I laugh.
The load shifted and laid the rig over at 50 mph - I got strained thru
the windshield and fortunately the wreckage came to a stop about half
a second before I did, so I'm still around to talk about it with an
aire of levity!
An intelligent woman kept a death grip on my temporal long enough to
make the difference, and I haven't seen any UFO's lately!
Ciao!
DS"
Well, were sure wish DS a swift recovery. The Atari forums are feeling
more and more like an extended family!
The big discussion in the Networking area this week relates to reading
ST disks on an IBM. It appears that the letters "IBM" need to appear
in the FAT before an IBM drive will read the directory. Other members
speak of a "magic" number the ST writes at the time of formatting. But
from the discussion, we believe it is possible to re-write the FAT on
an ST disk so an IBM will read it. Some users report success with
certain programs while others report that the same programs "trashed"
their disks. So we are left in a state of limbo for the moment. It
would appear that the latest TOS will write an IBM compatible disk, and
DCFORMAT will do the same thing. Special formats (twisted, etc) may
not work on an IBM, but at least one member reports that his 386SX at
work will read his twisted ST disks.
Another member, Juan D. Bravo, (r)elates the following story:
"To all my fellow Atarians:
I've been away for a long time (name it 3 years) from any serious
activity on my old 520 ST, working on (yuk!!!) IBM machines. A few
weeks ago, my boss got me a software package for graphics animation, to
be run on one of our "fast" 486 machines. I had a big laugh!!. Those
machines can hardly manage two dimensional moving graphics.
I quickly remembered how well my ST (expanded to 1 meg) could handle
full 3D graphics with CAD 3D by Tom Hudson. I mentioned it to my boss
and he was impressed the next day when I showed him a demo. He wants
me now to do all the related work at home in my ST."
Should this be called "Ghost Computing?" Oh, why can't stories like
this make it to CNN?
Overshadowing some issues under discussion in the Atari and other
forums, was (and is) the flaring up of tempers, the throwing of
diatribes, and the exchange of profane hate EMAIL! To be sure, we are
an argumentative bunch and have no fear of expressing our views. But
we have to remember that it is not another computer we are
communicating with.Nor is it another idea. It is another person, with
feelings and emotions and... ammunition which can (and will!) be hurled
our way! In one forum, we made the mistake of mentioning to one of two
parties engaged in a debate that the regular rules of debate couldn't
apply to telecomputing because there was enough of a time delay between
comments to rethink and create a "formal" response (not unlike legal
briefs). Well, we were accused of equating forum discussions with a
court of law where there was a clear winner and loser! Not what we
intended to say at all, but a clear demonstration of the problem! It
is not in anyone's best interest to create a formal protocol of debate
/discussion via telecomputing. But a little common sense goes a long
way. We can't see or hear the other guy/gal who is leaving their
message. We don't know if they're smiling, or spitting, so let's
assume they're smiling, and if we do respond, let's keep it friendly
whenever possible, or at the very least, professional! BTW, profanity
in EMAIL is one thing, but profanity in public forums can be controlled
by the SYSOPs, according to our own Ron Luks.
And since Mr. Luks has been dragged into this issue of ZNET (is there a
recent issue of anything he isn't mentioned in) we want to congratulate
him on the big article in the March 1992 issue of CompuServe Magazine!
Now, while Ron is in the spotlight, we'll also thank him for a little
trick he related this week with regard to line noise .vs node problems:
"Unfortunately, CIS customer service (or anybody's customer service for
that matter) is all too quick to suggest that your problem may lie
elsewhere.
There's one quick test that I've found works exceptionally well and
shuts them up in a quick second, if you are so inclined to spend a few
extra pennies.
Keep handy the phone number of another CIS node (even a long distance
one) and if you are having bad connection problems, log off and
immediately dial the other node (even a long distance call will cost
less than a dollar just to check out the quality of the connection).
If you are still having connection problems and line noise, the problem
probably IS your local phone line, and its unlikely CIS can do anything
about the problem. *BUT* if the long distance connection is quick and
clean, the problem is OBVIOUSLY the local node and you can call CIS and
inform them of your test call to the other node which confirms this.
This should immediately get their attention. If it doesn't, you can
call me and *I'll* jump all over customer service for you.
Ron"
Ombudsmanism abounds!
Not having a Portfolio, I personally don't spend much time in the
APORTFOLIO forum, but it is a very popular area. Coverage is
problematic for two reasons. First, not having the machine makes it
tough to write intelligently about it. Second, in that forum this week
there were over 350 messages on no less than 85 topics! It will have
to suffice to say that the Atari Portfolio is alive, well and living a
well supported life on CIS!
We're beginning to see some discussion in the vendor forum about Tiny
Turbo, replete with benchmarks! It appears that most MIDI applications
weren't tested, and as they are "speed sensitive" MIDI moguls may want
to wait and see if will help them. Also, in the area of MIDI... the
MIDI forums this week were again ablaze with discussions ranging from
Stacy drive lights to public funding of the arts and just about
everything in between! EditTrack users who have Stacys with
MIDIPlexers, will want to upgrade (for free!) to version 6.01 (assuming
you're at 6.00, now) so that the Stacy drive 1 light will go out after
a save to the floppy. Stefan Daystrom at Hybrid Arts mentioned that
most of the accelerators available for the ST do work with their
programs, but you may want to consider a board which can be switched
back to 8Mhz for those programs which are incompatible.
Speaking of "switching off" we see from the count on the WPrfct Spell
Checker that we're reaching the limits of our space in ZNET and should
draw to a close. A sad note must end our discussion today.
WordPerfect has announced it will continue to support Atari, Amiga and
Apple machines.
*NOT!*
So if your favorite computers' name starts with an "A," you can kiss
ideas of an update for this program goodbye! Or at least until the
rest of the world catches up to us...<sob>.
======================================================================
* ATARI RELEASES HYPERLIST Press Release
======================================================================
Contact: Don Mandell Don Thomas
Phone: (408) 745-2000 (408) 745-2000
Fax: (408) 745-2088 (408) 745-2088
SUNNYVALE, CA (March, 1992) -- Atari Computer Corporation has released
a new software application for the Portfolio handheld computer.
Hyperlist is a unique filing system which revolutionizes the way data
may be organized in the Portfolio. Often described as an "outliner" or
"database", Hyperlist provides the opportunity to create extensive
lists, then attach "child" lists to each item in the "parent" list. On
paper, the data flow resembles an organizational or flow chart.
"This new system on the Portfolio opens many doors of opportunity",
states Donald A. Thomas, Jr., Marketing Manager at Atari Computer Corp.
"The software is easy to use, powerful and flexible; all at the same
time."
Hyperlist has been in development for almost an entire year. A hand
picked team of BETA testers worked with early versions to assure that
a wide variety of uses could be applied by using the finished product.
Specific target markets include education, sales, medicine, law and
general purpose.
Students and educators enjoy Hyperlist for the ability to easily
establish time lines. Each entry at the top reveals expounded details
as it is selected. Class schedules and assignments can be arranged by
due date, instructor or course study. Research materials can be
collected in an impressively organized manner with references to
sources, authors, dates or topics.
Salespeople depend on Hyperlist to sort through parts by category,
region or client. Established price lists and component specifications
are instantly recalled by use of logical prompts created by entries on
each level of the list.
The Medical Community benefits by creating functional patient reference
logs or developing custom reference notes on medicines, dosages and
drug interactions. Attorneys find refuge in Hyperlist by recording
step by step case procedures logical notation. HomeMakers store
recipes, home businesses log business contacts, big businesses create
departmental reporting plans... Hyperlist seems to do it all.
Hyperlist is one of many optional applications developed specifically
for the Portfolio computer by Atari. The Portfolio computer is about
the size of a videocassette and weighs less than one pound. Often
regarded as the ultimate organizer due to five powerful built-in
programs, the Portfolio rivals the productivity of other palmtops or
notebooks for a fractional price (299.95 MSRP). Other optional
software titles for the Portfolio include Finance, Dos Utilities,
Chess, Instant Spell, PowerBASIC and more. Over 700 files exist in the
public domain for the Portfolio and are accessible on CompuServe and
GEnie on line services.
Hyperlist is value priced at only $49.95 manufacturer's suggested
retail price and is available from Portfolio resellers. Portfolio is
available from better computer dealers throughout the world. Most
dealers will be happy to order it if they are out of stock. For more
information on the Portfolio and its applications, contact Don Thomas,
Portfolio Marketing Manager, 1196 Borregas Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94088.
(408) 745-2000.
======================================================================
* HOME ACCOUNTS 2 Press Release
======================================================================
ABC Solutions is pleased to announce that they have appointed the North
American distributor for Home Accounts 2, the finest home accounting
package available for the ST. Home Accounts 2 earned a Format Gold
rating of 90% from ST Format magazine.
Home Accounts 2 is a comprehensive home financial management package.
It can also be used to manage a small business. It includes functions
for multiple savings, checking and credit card accounts, budgeting,
portfolio tracking and net worth reporting.
DISPLAY
* Fully supports the desktop, with 3D look and feel
* HIP (Human Interface Protocol), a graphical environment which
integrates the desktop and automates the way you work.
* Predictable, consistent, you will find HIP both friendly and
intuitive
* Multiple windows (window positions and sizes are automatically
remembered)
* Icons for major functions (optional)
* Background cocktail colour themes
TRANSACTIONS
* Number of accounts, types, transactions, budget entries,
investments, and standing orders limited only by memory.
* 12 month budget entry for income and expenditure (optional)
* Show or hide option for each transaction heading
* Definable defaults, saving tedious typing Budget calculator and
replicate option
* Set standing orders for any period
* Sort transactions by any heading
* Transfer funds between accounts
* Balance accounts automatically
* Edit transactions at any time
* Transaction reconciliation
* Auto cheque numbering
* Transaction markers
* Search and replace
* Notepad facility
GRAPHS
* Pie, line, bar and scatter graphs
* 3D Bar graphs, optional stacking and overlaying
* Graphs for budgets, account balances, income accounts and
expenditure types
* Graphs are self-scaling to fit windows
* Save graphs on disk in Degas Elite
PRINTING
* All reports fully configurable (including header/footer, character
style and pitch)
* Detailed statements for specified date range
* Budget reports (optional comparative figures)
* Totals of income accounts and expenditure
* Net worth and portfolio report
* Full report searching
* Reports produced on-screen, printed or saved on disk (ASCII format)
* 106 printer drivers and print spooler
FILE HANDLING
* Timed autosave and backup
* Built-in utilities include format, disk info etc
GENERAL
* Many configuration options can be controlled by the user, including
entry defaults, display headers, initial path, data file names and
so on
* Maximum and minimum warning on accounts
* Extensive budgeting
* View budgets by any period
* View actual and projected budgets, side-by-side
* Password facility
* Definable function keys
* Definable financial year period
* Screen saver, Clock, Pop-up Notepad
* Calculator, with interest and loan repayment
* On-line help (optional interactive help)
* Keyboard short cuts
* Recoverable trashcan
* Not copy protected
* Mono and colour, ST/STe/Mega/TT
A demo will be posted next week. Watch for your chance to test drive
this amazing home accounting package.
Home Accounts 2 is priced at $99 Cdn or $85 US (plus $10 s&h). Ontario
residents add 8% PST; Canadian residents add 7% GST.
To order, send check or money order to:
ABC Solutions
4040 Creditview Road
Unit 11-151
Mississauga Ontario L5C 3Y8
You may also get in touch with us by calling (416) 824-8484, or leave
eMail on GEnie to ABC.SOLN.
Other Products:
* Publisher 2ST: the successor to Timeworks Desktop Publisher. Also
available as an upgrade.
* First Graph: a complete business and scientific graphing package.
* K-Spread 4: the advanced presentation spreadsheet from KUMA software
of England. The leading spreadsheet in Europe! And soon to be
available, K-Spread 4 Lite !
* First Word Plus: upgrades only from 2.xx or 3.xx to 3.2TT. Also, a
special disk of printer drivers for FWP.
======================================================================
* CEBIT REPORT FROM GENIE
======================================================================
Topic 33 Fri Mar 13, 1992
F.BELL1 [Frank @ Home] at 14:49 EST
Sub: The Falcon
The Falcon has been announced at CeBit
************
------------
Category 14, Topic 33
Message 1 Fri Mar 13, 1992
F.BELL1 [Frank @ Home] at 14:50 EST
I can't beleive it. Rumors flying around like mad. Everbody and his
mother-in-law have their own opinion as to what Falcon is or should be
or whatever. But when its announced nobody says anything. Not even
Atari. :-(
Anyway, although I wasn't at the CeBit I do have some first, second,
and third hand informatation.
First of all - the machine was only shown to a closed group of people,
mostly dealers. It wasn't shown on the floor of CeBit.
- The Falcon 030 is considered a follow-up machine to the 1040s, its
contained in a 1040 case (or at least very similar), and black ala
NeXT.
- 68030 CPU running at 33Mhz, I beleave the whole machine runs at 33
Mhz or at least most of it.
- DSP 56001 Signalprocessor (NeXT).
- Up to 14MB RAM in simms.
- Screen sizes, all ST/STE/TT resolutions except 1280*960, plus 640x480x
65535 (out of 256000 colors), plus some other stuff which I forgot (ah,
ability to connect to external signal source).
- Built-it 2.5" SCSI harddisk (this may still be a rumor).
- All normal MegaSTE/TT connectors, ST and STE joy stick ports (4 in
all), plus a built-in LAN connector and other toys (remember that
signal processor).
- Multi TOS, ya, real live Multi TOS, NOW!. Thanks guys. Multi TOS
alone is worth dumping my expanded MegaST for a Falcon.
- Delivery before September (this year).
- I heard the Falcon should cost less than $1200.00, but with exchange
rates the way they are and my bad ears, I may have heard the wrong
price.
Anyway, its plain to see that Atari has a new and wants a new 'low end'
machine (or a super game machine - the choise is up to you) which isn't
designed to replace the MegaTT, but designed for the masses and which
can be sold to the masses.
Rumor has it that the Falcon 040, the 'high end' machine, is almost
ready, it didn't make it to CeBit by just a few days, and will be
announced in September. Atari didn't say one word about the '040' -
the rumor came from other sources.
Great going Atari, meaning everybody who worked on getting the Falcon
out. I wish you my best.
Now lets hear for Bob and John and...
Frank...
Editors Note: We spoke with Atari on the above information and they
would neither confirm or deny any of it.
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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
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