DP Tool Club 17/CD_ASCQ_17_101194.iso/vrac/twterm30.zip/TWTERM.DOC

Text File | 1994-07-06 | 54KB | 1,108 lines

                              TWTERM
                           VERSION 3.0
       Copyright 1993, 1994 by Will Boyett - All rights Reserved

        Compatible with the various versions of Trade Wars 2.0


*WARNING*     You will need the following to properly run TWTERM:

                     EGA or better graphic card
                          DOS 3.0 OR later
        350K to 580K of memory (depends on size of universe)
   300K to 2 meg of free disk space for files created/used by TWTERM

            386 or better recommended (but not necessary)
   Sound Blaster Card & TWSOUNDA.ZIP recommended (but not necessary)
       TWTERM "POWER-Pak" Module not necessary (but recommended)
*************************************************************************

                      DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY

THIS SOFTWARE IS SOLD "AS IS" AND WITHOUT WARRANTIES AS TO PERFORMANCE OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR ANY OTHER WARRANTIES WHETHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED.
BECAUSE OF THE VARIOUS HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE ENVIRONMENTS INTO WHICH THIS
PROGRAM MAY BE PUT, NO WARRANTY OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE IS
OFFERED.

*************************************************************************
What is TWTERM

* TWTERM is an off-line utility for strategy mapping.
* TWTERM is an on-line terminal program designed specifically for use in
  playing Trade Wars, the popular BBS door game.
* TWTERM is an interface composed of graphics and sound.

The advantage of using TWTERM is that it is custom designed just for
playing the game. Thus you have a lot of features that your normal
term program like Telemate or QModem can't offer.

Not only that, it also helps to add to the realism of the game. TWTERM is
designed with 3D graphics, and arranged to give the appearance of an
actual ships console. Thus you feel like you are really at the helm of your
vessel as you travel through space.

You can also add digitized sound to TW if you have a Sound Blaster card.
However you'll need to download TWSOUNDA.ZIP for all the necessary sound
files. Because of the size of this file, I had to make a separate ZIP
file for these. Those without a sound card won't have to download this
file.

To help make learning TWTERM as easy as possible, I've broken the docs
into 4 catagories...

TWTERM.DOC    This file. Explains what TWTERMis, how to run it, and the
              features available.
MODMHELP.DOC  This tells you how to configure your modem to work with
              TWTERM and helps expalin any problems you may have getting
              TW to display correctly.
SCRIPT.DOC    Explains TWTERM's script language, so you can start coding
              your own custom macros for use in TWTERM.
TERMTIPS.DOC  Frequently asked questions about TWTERM. May save you the
              the cost of a phone call to my support BBS.

*************************************************************************
How To Add More Power To TWTERM  (please see TWTORDER.FRM for more info)

Anyone wishing to use this program as an aid in playing TW is welcome
to do so without registering with me.

You are free to use it for all your playing needs without sending me any
money. So have fun and enjoy Trade Wars through the eyes of TWTERM. If
you have Sound Blaster, don't forget to download TWSOUNDA.ZIP. This has
many digitized sound files that you can add to TWTERM. If you can't
find TWSOUNDA.ZIP at a BBS near you, you can order it from me. See
TWTORDER.FRM for more info.

If you like what you see here and are a serious TW player who wants real
power, then I recommend you order TWTERM's "POWER-Pak" module. Just plug
this module into TWTERM and you'll have access to 30 more features (you
know, those ones you just can't seem to access in TWTERM but are listed
in gray letters on the menus).

If you have a Sound Blaster, then you'll also want to pick up the complete
Sound Effects package, "TWSOUND" Volumes A and B. Plug these into TWTERM
and you'll be amongst the first to ever enjoy "Theater Quality" sounds
from a Door game. Now you can LIVE Trade Wars with these realistic sounds.
(My favorites are when your ship explodes, and while walking the decks of
the Stardock.)

Well if all the above isn't enough for you, how about more power and
efficiency through the use of customizable macros?  TWTERM is the first
Trade Wars utility to offer it's own script language. As such you, you can
create fast and easy macros to handle your mundane chores. I know, you
don't know how to write macros. Don't worry, if you order TWT-MACROS you
won't have to learn. I've written them for you.

As you can see, TWTERM is making a major step forward, to the ultimate
Trade Wars utility. Combining on-line use as a term program, and also
offline as a stand-alone offline utility. Plus the ability to plug in
3rd party modules let's TWTERM grow as your needs grow.

To order any of the fine products mentioned above use the TWTORDER.FRM
Included here.

***************************************************************************
What's in TWTERM
  (those marked with an * are available with the "POWER-Pak" module only)

 1) Superb 3D graphics, sound, animation for playing Trade Wars on-line.
 2) Built in warning system that warns of Planets, Ports, Mines, Traders,
    and Ships.
*3) Built-In Macros to handle repetitive tasks
 4) Script language so you can custom design your own macros.
 5) Display/Save/Edit macros on-line or off.
 6) Toggle sound effects on and off.
 7) On-Line and Off-Line dual screen mapper.
 8) Built in CIM access for fast downloading of your port/sector files.
 9) Utility Menu that allows you to run EXE/COM/BAT files while on-line.
 10) Ship Control Center where you locate, calculate distance to, set
     passwords, and more.
 11) Sound effects including phasers, sirens, explosions and more
     (PC Speaker only). To add digitized stereo sound, download TWSOUNDA.ZIP.
 12) Print files created by TWTERM on or off-line
 13) Your choice of 24 or 41 line display.
 14) Scrollback buffer
 15) Ship's Library where you can view all the files created by TWTERM as
     well as any text files, PLUS Catalogs featuring info on all the ships
     and planets found in TW.
 16) Level Diagram mapping of your universe.
 17) Create capture files of your playing session
*18) Display Transwarp/Standard path
 19) Flight Recorder, record/replay your session in 3D graphics and sound
 20) Scan current directory for files
*21) Merge Corp members database with yours, or merge your Level-Diagram
     info with your CIM info.
*22) Track down other Traders.
*23) Find and save One-Way warps.
*24) Find and save Paired-Ports listing.
*25) Find and save best ports to rob and steal.
*26) Find and save Dead-Ends listing.
*27) Find nearest ports and unexplored sectors to any sector.
 28) Keeps track of busted ports and gives warnings
*29) Enter reminder notes as you play.
 30) Supports COM 1-4, 2400-14.4 modems (See MODMHELP.DOC on how to connect)
 31) Find, list, and save assets grouped by sectors.
 32) Displays on main screen, location of Stardock, amount explored, last
     port you stole/robbed at and your current path.
 33) Find best routes for Ether Probing
 34) Sound Blaster support (need TWSOUNDA.ZIP)
*35) Nearest Paired-Ports to any sector
 36) Maintains on-line database of your explored sectors and ports
 37) Ability to adjust your trading percentages
 38) Ether Probe routines for locating best routes, and automatic firing
     of Probes.

*************************************************************************
To run TWTERM, take  the following steps:

warning:
* This version will not work with the files from versions 1.4 of TWTERM
  or before.
* This version is designed to work exclusively with TW 2.0 (and
  It's BETA versions). If you need TWTERM for versions 1.03 and 1.03d of
  Trade Wars.. then download TWTERM14.ZIP (or order from me, see
  TWTORDER.FRM).
* If you are upgrading from TWTERM 2.2 or a previous version, you'll need
  to erase all game .CFG files before running this version of TWTERM.
  (the formats are different)

To run TWTERM, simply type at the DOS prompt:

       TWTERM gamename OR TWTERM

For MajorBBS versions of Trade Wars, type:

       TWTERM gamename / M OR TWTERM / M

Where "gamename" is the name of the game files you wish access to.
  "gamename" is optional and can always be entered from within TWTERM,
  I just find it easier to do from the command line.
  Example: You play TW on PhotoPro BBS.  Use "PP" for the "gamename".

  If you want to start a new set of game files. Then enter a game name
  That doesn't exist yet. TWTERM will use it for naming your files.

  If you don't enter a game name from the commandline, TWTERM will prompt
  you for one before it proceeds further.

Where "/M" is for TW games on MajorBBS. You can use /M or /m.


When you first run TWTERM you must configure it to work with your modem.
This can be done on-line, but to save you're on-line time you may wish to
run TWTERM off-line first, to set it up and get acquainted (recommended).

Since TWTERM can not call a BBS and log on to it, you will need to call
your BBS with your communication program. You can run TWTERM once you
are connected to the BBS. This can be done in several ways. 1) EXIT
your comm program and start TWTERM. 2) Shell to DOS then start TWTERM.
3) Set up a hotkey in your comm program, that when pressed will start
TWTERM. See your comm programs docs for more details on how to do this.

FINAL notes:
If you shell to DOS to run TWTERM, or use a hotkey, you'll probably need to
to configure your comm program to shell itself to EMS/XMS/DISK.
Just remember TWTERM needs 350K to run in a 1000 sector universe and up
to 580K in a 5000 sector universe. While in your comm program,
shell to DOS and type "MEM" to see how much memory is available. Now if you
want to run other programs while in TWTERM, then you'll need more memory)

TWTERM will only work with BBS that uses "8 N 1". If the BBS you use to
play uses something else. Your out of luck for now. Most all BBS's are
"8 N 1" so there shouldn't be a problem.

LOCAL MODE use: No guarantees here (I haven't tried it). But if you want
                to use TWTERM in local mode (and you are using
                multi-tasking software). Try specifying COM 0 as your
                com port. See MODMHELP.DOC for more info.

MBBS Users note:  Sometimes when you start TWTERM, you may not get TW to
                  display. This is because of Multi-Players and all the
                  messages that come in as folks log-on and send messages.
                  You see, when you leave your comm program to start TWTERM
                  these messages are still being sent over the modem. Since
                  TWTERM hasn't started yet these messages are building up
                  in the buffer and mess things up when TWTERM does start.
                  To avoid this you need to start TWTERM as fast as you can
                  after leaving your comm program (or run TWTERM from within
                  your comm program using a hot key). If you should get this,
                  then exit TWTERM, go back to your comm program, make sure
                  TW is displaying correctly. Then try starting TWTERM again.
                  (See MODMHELP.DOC for more info on this)

***************************************************************************
Files created and/or used by TWTERM
(A "*" denotes a file used by TWTERM in conjuction with the POWER-Pak module)

TWTERM Program files:

TWTERM.DOC    term documentation. This file. Can also be printed
MODMHELP.DOC  help file for configuring your modem
SCRIPT.DOC    help file for creating script macros
TERMTIPS.DOC  Tips on how to use the term program effectively

TWTORDER.FRM  catalog and order form
TWTERM.EXE    the terminal program
TWSHIP.LIB    help file used by "Ship's LIbrary"
TWPLANET.LIB  help file used by "Ship's Library"
TWMACROS.FIL  text file that contains your editable macros
TWUTIL.FIL    text file containing the configuration of utility(s) to run
.MAC files    text files for use by TWTERM to run large macros
.CFG file     one file for each TW game you play in. Contains the
              configuration data on that game. Created by TWTERM
.SND file     sound files for those with Sound Blaster card.
               Need to download TWSOUNDA.ZIP for these.

Sector and Ports Databases created by TWTERM:

.SCT file     CIM file containing all explored sector's warp info
.PRT file     CIM file containing all explored sector's port info
.WRP file     Created by the Level Diagram mapping feature, containing
              warps found during it's processing. Same format as .SCT
              (available only with door version of TW)

Level Diagramming Database created by TWTERM:
(only available for the door version of TW.)

.LV1 file      Has all paths going out of sector 1 to every sector
.LV2 file      Has all paths going out of Stardock to every sctor
                 (or for any sector you specify)
.LV3 file      Has paths going into sector 1 from "isolated" sectors
.EP  file      Text file that displays best locations to send Ether Probes

Other Databases pertaining to game stats (created by TWTERM):

 .DAT file    text file containing game stats, fleet location, busted ports
                location of Stardock/Class 0's, deployed fighters/mines, more
*.TRD file    text file used to store trader findings and notes.
*.BST file    text file containing list of best ports for trading and robbing
*.END file    text file listing dead-ends, how deep, and if port exists
*.ONE file    text file containing your known one-way warps
 .AST file    text file containing your major assets grouped by sectors
                (does not list sectors that have 1 fighter or mine in them)
*.NOT file    text file containing your notes
 .TWT files   file created by/for the Flight recorder
 .LOG file    a capture file

***************************************************************************
Features of TWTERM

Previously I explained how to start TWTERM and how to correct any problems
when running it. So this section will focus on the features in TWTERM and
how to use them to your best advantage.

   ------------------   Summary of TWTERM Keys   -----------------------

                                             F1   Ship's Library
                                             F2   Ship Control Center
     <CTRL> P   Print Menu                   F3   Toggle Capture File
     <CTRL> B   Black Box - Flight Recorder  F4   Data Menu
     <CTRL> C   CIM Access                   F5   Display Map
                                             F6   Level Diagram Mapping
                                                  Ether Probe routines
     <CTRL> X   Exit TWTERM                  F7   Macro Menu
     <CTRL> Y   Reset Database Files         F8   Config Menu
     <CTRL> Z   Toggle Display               F9   Shell To Dos
                                             F10  Utility Menu

------------>>>>>>>>>>>  F1 - SHIP'S LIBRARY   <<<<<<<<<<<<--------------

Selecting this feature allows you to view all your files created by
TWTERM plus any other text files you may wish to view.

This feature lists only files in the current directory. If you want to view
a file on another drive or directory, simply supply the path when specifying
the file name.

You can also use F1 to view the Scrollback Buffer and/or to get descriptions
of what the icons stand for (in case you need a reminder)

Note: Many of the files for viewing here are created with the F4 option.

---------->>>>>>>>>>>  F2 - SHIP CONTROL CENTER <<<<<<<<<<<<------------

Here is where you can keep track of your fleet, ship password, and whether
or not your current ship has Transwarp Drive or a Planet Scanner (needed
by certain Built-In macros)

NEARBY SHIPS   By running this you can see how far away your ships are from
any sector. This is very handy when planning strategy off-line.

SHIPS PASSWORD  Here you can set a password you wish to use to protect your
ships from invaders. Type in the password you want. It is instantly saved
and displayed. You'll never forget your password again. The password is
saved in variable %20. Thus by using variable %20 and TWTERM's script
language, you can easily create a macro to send your password when requested
by TW.

T-WARP and PLANET SCANNER  In TW, you get different prompts from the game
depending on whether you have these items on your ship or not. In order
for the Built-In macros to work properly, they need to know which TW prompts
will be sent their way. By entering YES or NO for these you customize the
macros to work with your ship. And since you can own many ships, you will
want to change these when changing ships (providing you are going to use the
macros that are affected by these - if not then don't worry about this).
The Colonize macro uses the T-Warp one, while Planet Maintainence, Planet
Trading, and Colonize macros all use the Planet Scanner one.

-------------------->>>>>>>   F3 - STARLOG   <<<<<<<<<--------------------

Use this to open and close a capture file. Each time you open a capture
file you can add a distinctive name to it. The file is then given an
extension of .LOG automatically.

If you plan on scanning this log file via "SCAN A LOG" to gather data on
your game, then I suggest you give your log file the same name as the
gamename. Else TWTERM won't scan it.

If a capture file with the same name as the one you wish to open, already
exists, you are given the option of whether to overwrite it or append to it.
Overwrite is TWTERM's default. Push <ENTER> to overwrite.

------------------>>>>>>>>  F4 - DATA MENU  <<<<<<<<<<<-----------------

Come here when you need info on your universe. Using your CIM files and
a .LOG file, you can generate all kinds of reports on your universe.

SCAN LOG          Scans a .LOG file for all your assets, planets found,
                  game stats, ports you have been busted at and more..
                  Helpful to run the TWSTATS macro before closing your
                  .LOG file and scanning it.
CHANGE DATABASE   Switch from one set of game files to another set.
                  Used off-line for planning strategies in more then one TW
                  game, without having to restart TWTERM each time.
MERGE DATABASE    Merge another's SCT, PRT, or WRP file with yours. (always
                  merge the most recent file last). Use this also to merge
                  your .WRP file created by the Level-Diagram mapper with
                  your CIM .SCT file. To make this work.. load your database
                  using <CTRL> Y. Then go to F4, then choose Merge Database.
                  When asked for a file to merge enter the name of the .SCT
                  or .WRP file to merge.
DELETES BUSTED    Use this when you wish to erase from disk and memory a port
PORTS             or all ports where you have been busted. Useful to use after
                  the 14 day theft cycle is up, or after someone else has
                  been busted at a port where you have been busted.
                  This clears that port(s) so that once again you will be able
                  to rob/steal via a TWTERM macro.
ADD REMINDER      Use this feature to post notes about your game.
                  Conveniently saved to disk in a .NOT file.

If you have the POWER-Pak module plugged into TWTERM then you'll gain access
to these features as well...

NEAREST PORTS     Use this to quickly locate the ports nearest to any sector
                  you specify. Also notifies you of any Paired-Ports that may
                  be in range. To be notified of these Paired Ports you must
                  have a listing of them in the .BST file first for this
                  feature to find them.
PAIRED PORTS      Choose the type of pair you want, and get a listing of
                  those ports. Those marked with a "*" are near full capacity
                  and should be your first choice.
ROB PORTS         Lists the ports that have a high chance of containing
                  credits to rob.
NEAR UNEXPLORED   Use this to quickly locate the nearest unexplored sectors
SECTORS           to any sector you specify. Has a range of 6 sectors.
FIND DEAD-ENDS    List dead-ends, how far deep, and Class of port should
                  one exist in the dead-end.
DISPLAY PATH      Display a Transwarp or Standard path between two sectors.
                  For Transwarp paths, TWTERM uses the locations of your
                  deployed fighters as they appear in your .DAT file. If
                  you have no fighters in your .DAT file, then create a .DAT
                  file that lists your deployed fighters.
ONE-WAY WARPS     Finds and displays all the one-way warps you have found.
FIND TRADERS      Keeps a chronological list of all reports you have found
                  on other Traders. Excellent for tracking down players. For
                  best results start this term and open your Flight Recorder
                  or capture file while TW's opening screen is displayed.
                  Then TWTERM can scan your opening messages also for the
                  most complete report. (if you have trouble interpreting
                  this report, go to the end of this doc and read "How To
                  Read Trader File")
DELETE OLD        Use this to delete old Trader reports that may be too old
REPORTS           to be reliable. Just specify how many days back you wish
                  to save, and all previous days will erased from TRD file.

------------------>>>>>>>>  F5 - MAP SCREEN  <<<<<<<<<<-----------------

Here you have the latest in TW technology. A dual screen mapper that works
on-line or off. Here you can display a graphic map of any sector and it's
surrounding sectors. Also can obtain any sectors port info here.

You'll see the surrounding sectors, up to 9 sectors away. All dead-ends
and ports are clearly marked. If on-line, you'll see the sector you are
in currently while on-line, also the Class 0's and Stardock locations
are dislayed for your perusal should you so desire

The dual screen allows for viewing two different parts of the universe at
the same time, or for extending the view of the path in the first
window. This is one feature of TWTERM that will take some practice at
mastering. However anyone skilled with this mapper has an advantage over
one using the same term program with no skill on the mapper. Learn it well.

Also while in the mapper, should you wish to examine any port that appears
on the map, you can do so by entering "P" then the sector # where the port
is located.

Many folks ask how they can print the map screen on their printer. Since it
is a graphic screen, it can not be easily done with the PRINT SCRN key on
your keyboard. DOS includes a utility called GRAPHICS.COM that allows
printing of graphic screens. See your DOS manual on how to use GRAPHICS.COM, also see your printer manual on how to configure your printer to print graphics.

Final Note: Some sectors may appear to be dead-ends, but in reality may have
a one way warp that comes in to it. The mapper does not check for this. The
sector that warps in may not be explored yet, thus the mapper can't tell.
If you are using the mapper as an aid in travel, then it doesn't matter
since you can't use that warp anyway. If you are using it to scan an area to
put a planet, then use the "Check For One-Way Warp" feature. Can also check
while playing TW by marking the sector before the dead-end as an avoid, then
trying to move there. TW will inform you if a warp exists.

-------->>>>>>>>  F6 - LEVEL DIAGRAM/ETHER PROBE <<<<<<<<<<-------

NOTE: Due to format changes in the MBBS version of TW, the Level Diagramming
routines take 2 times as long to run. Because of this, the benefits gained
aren't worth the excessive time it takes to run. Therfore MBBS users have this
feature replaced by Ether Probe routines which can be used for finding best
routes and automatic firing of probes.

Players of the Door version of TW have access to both the Level Diagram
mapping and the Ether Probe routines.

                             Level Diagram

1) In a new game, you can use this to quickly gather the warps in your game
   without wasting turns. Great for locating dead-ends, Class 0's and Stardock.
   (your best bet for loacating Class 0's and Stardock is to search those
    sectors that have 5-6 warps)

2) Find the best routes for sending Ether Probes. Routes are classified in
   two categories. Most unexplored sectors in a route, and those the furthest
   from any sector you may wish to send them from. Stardock is good, since
   you can easily replenish probes without using many moves.

Since this feature can take some time, especially in a 5000 sector universe,
you are allowed the option of running this feature in 3 different stages.
No need to do it all in one day. TWTERM keeps track of where you left off and
can continue from there whenever you wish:

Level 1:  Here you will find routes going from sector 1 to every other
          sector in the universe.

Level 2:  This level, by default, finds paths going from Stardock to every
          other sector in the universe. TWTERM searches variable %16 to see
          if it contains the location of Stardock. If so it uses it without
          you being prompted. If variable %16 is empty. You will be asked
          for the location of Stardock. If you don't know where it is, you
          may not want to run this feature.

          You can also use this level for finding routes from ANY sector.
          To do that, you must make sure variable %16 is empty so TWTERM
          will prompt you for a sector. To empty variable %16. Run this
          macro first: {SET %16}. Be warned though, TWTERM uses variable
          %16 for displaying the location of Stardock on the TWTERM main
          screen. If you change %16 then the new location will be displayed
          as Stardock (at least until Stardock is relocated or reset by you)

Level 3:  This level should be run AFTER you have done Level's 1 and 2.
          However, you can run it first, or second, if you like.

          Basically, it searches for any sectors that doesn't have a warp.
          It then plots the routes from those sectors to sector 1. If you
          run this level after level 1 and 2. Then it should plot a couple
          hundred routes (based on 1000 sector universe). If you run it
          first, it will plot all 1000 routes. So its faster running it
          last, but by running it first, you get all of sector 1's inbound
          routes. The choice is yours...

After you have finished with all 3 stages, you can assemble the 3 stages
into 2 useful formats:

1) Create a .WRP file. This file is exactly the same format as CIM's SCT.
   However, whereas CIM only gives explored warps, this .WRP file has
   unexplored ones as well.

   You can do 2 things with this .WRP file. If you are a registered user,
   you can merge the .WRP file with your .SCT file for a most comprehensive
   listing. You can also rename the .WRP file and give it an extension of
   .SCT and load into TWTERM just like you would do with CIM's .SCT file.

2) Create a .EP file.  This file lists the sectors that are the furthest
   from sector 1 or Stardock. This file lists the routes that have the most
   unexplored sectors in them.

   Once you have this file. You can purchase your Ether Probes, then fire
   the probes from sector 1 or Stardock to the sectors listed in this file
   for the most efficient use of Probes and time.

One word of warning though. It would take an awful long time to map 100% of
the warps in the game, instead the time has been cut down to a more manageable
amount, the trade off is that you won't have 100% of the warps. So just keep
that in mind when using the data. A sector that appears to have only 1 warp
out, in reality may have 2 or more.

                         ETHER PROBE Routines

While the above Level Diagram approcah produces an .EP file of sectors that
are the best places to send Ether Probes, it has a big disadvantage. To get
a new list of sectors, you have to run the LD all over again. At 1000 sectors
It's the best way. But in a game of 3000 or more sectors, and escpecially
at 2400 baud, the LD approach above takes too long.

Instead the Ether Probe routines are best for finding routes AND automatic
launching of Ether Probes. Your data is updated automatically after each
firing of a Probe.

To run this, simply specify the sector you will be firing your probes from.
Then specify a sector number to start your E-Probe search from.
Here's what happens...

TWTERM searchs for unexplored sectors starting with the sector you specified.
For instance if you specified 4000, TWTERM checks to see if you explored
sector 4000. If so it checks 4001 and so on until it finds an unexplored
sector. Once found, it displays the route to that sector. You are then asked
if you want to save that sector. If you answer YES, that sector is saved
to memory (up to 25 can be saved since a ship can only hold 25 probes at a
time). Once you have selected the routes, you tell TWTERM to fire them.
BOOM.. they all fly out to their proper locations. Automatically.
(might be wise to have a .LOG file open so that all the information can
be captured to disk for later perusal)

---------------->>>>>>>>  F7 - MACRO MENU  <<<<<<<<<<--------------------

The Macro Menu displays all the macros you have available to use.
you'll also see a special FLIP button. This allows you to toggle the
display of Editable macros. When you first open the menu you will see a
description of your Editable macros. By using the FLIP button you can
display (and edit/add) the macro's script code.

TWTERM can run three types of macros:

1) .MAC files.  This is a text file with an extension of .MAC. This file
   can hold 10 lines of 80 characters each, or 800 character total for
   your macro. That's one huge macro capability.

   These macros must be created using a word processor, text editor, or
   DOS's COPY CON command. These macros must be saved in a text file
   with an extension of .MAC. If you use TWTERM's Utility menu to run
   your text-editor, then you can edit these macros while in TWTERM.

   I've included one here as an example to learn from. The macro is called
   TWSTATS.MAC and is used when you first log-in to a game or before exiting.
   It provides a complete list of all your assets, game stats, trader list,
   and more. Make sure you start a capture file before running it in case
   you want to save all the info.

2) Another type of macro is an Editable macro. These are saved in a text
   file called TWMACROS.FIL. I call these "Editable" because you can create
   these macros off-line or while on-line from within TWTERM.

   Included with TWTERM are macros already written for you.
   Modify, erase, or replace them as you wish.

3) The last type is the Built-In macros. These macros are coded into TWTERM
   and cannot be modified. These are ones that are complex to code so I
   did it for you and added it into the term itself. They handle all your
   mundane chores such as trading and stealing. Also a couple for Planet
   Maintenance. (Sorry, need the POWER-Pak module to access all except the
   Single-Port macro)

To create custom macros that TWTERM understands you'll need to use TWTERM's
script language (see SCRIPT.DOC for complete details).

                        ------------------------
NOTE: While running a macro, should you wish to abort it, simply press the
      <ESC> key. Sometimes, if you coded the macro wrong, you could find
      yourself in an endless loop (you'll know it when the screen stops
      displaying and none of the keys in TWTERM work). Again, press <ESC>
      until you exit from such a loop.
                        ------------------------

The easiest way to create your EDITABLE macros is within TWTERM. However if
you would like to create the TWMACROS.FIL file off-line in a word processor
the format is as follows:

1) Add a "'" to the beginning of the description line
2) put the description line above the macro line
Not all macros need to be described. Here are some examples of proper format:

EXAMPLE 1 (both macros described):

'this macro does todays news when at the Main prompt
{send c}{%9}{send d}{e :}{send %8}{use]}
'moves to sector 3 from sector 1
{send 2;}{%0}{send 3;}{%0}

EXAMPLE 2 (only third macro described):

{send 2;}{%0}{send 3;}{%0}
{send c}{%9}{send d}{e :}{send %8}{use]}
'displays info on your ship
{send i}{%0}

If all this is confusing to you, then create your macros and descriptions
in TWTERM. Then Exit TWTERM or Shell to DOS and examine the TWMACROS.FIL
file to see the format it is created in.

To create Huge macros (.MAC files) you'll need some sort of text editor.
Each .MAC file can be up to 10 lines long at 80 characters per line max.
See TWSTATS.MAC as an example

FINAL NOTE:  Many of these macros can be sped up by turning off the ANSI
             color in TW before running the macros. Helpful if you're at
             2400 baud.

------------->>>>>>>>   F8 - CONFIGURATION MENU   <<<<<<<<<<<-------------

Here you can configure each TW game you play in to work with TWTERM.

Some things you'll need to configure is your modem settings for that BBS,
the number of sectors in that TW game, whether you want sound on or off,
should Space graphics be displayed (turning this off can speed up your
screen displays), and what Class types of port to be warned about.

The 2 port alarms will warn you when you come across the type of port you
have selected. When robbing I usually set this for 1 and 6. When searching
for Stardock use 9, and to be kept aware of class 0 ports use 0.

NOTE: Some warning beeps are not affected by this feature. Whether
sound is on or off, you will hear these.

You can also customize TWTERM For Trading by using the ADVANCED SETTINGS
option. The Advanced settings allow you change the trading percentages
so you can get more/less experience points for trading. Why do this? Perhaps
the default settings aren't coming close enough to 5 experince points, or
maybe you want to get 0 experince points. By getting 0, you can make a lot
of credits, while still appearing as a Newbie on the players standings.
Great for deception. When adjusting these figures, it helps to have a
Psychic Probe on your ship so you can see how close you can get to 100%.

You can also use the Advanced Settings to lower your standards on Paired
Ports. When you do a listing of Paired Ports, those ports that have more
then 92% of the commodity on hand recieve a "*" in the listing. This way
you know which ports to visit first. However, in a well developed game,
most all ports may be low on products. Therfore, you can adjust the levels
at which a port recieves a "*" in the listing. You can lower to 80, if still
no Paired Ports with a "*", try again at 70% of product on hand.

Default settings for TWTERM:
                                            MBBS      Door Version
How much higher your initial offer is        6%         5.5%
when selling to a port.

How much lower your initial offer is        4.5%         4.5%
when buying from a port.

If your initial offer isn't accepted,        1%          1.2%
this percentage is how much to adjust
your initial offer by

---------------->>>>>>>>  F10 - UTILITY MENU  <<<<<<<<<<<------------------

This menu allows you to run other programs while on-line. These programs
can be on any drive and in any directory you specify (as long as it is
valid). This is most useful for running 3rd party utilities for TW, but
you can also use it to run any piece of software or DOS commands, or even
.BAT files.

If the file is in the current directory all you need do is enter the name
of the program to run along with any command line parameters it uses.
If the file is on another drive or in another directory, then you will
need to enter the full path also.

Example: Suppose you want to run TED3 (TINY EDIT, a text editor I recommend
for use with TWTERM) to edit your Huge macros while on-line.
If TED3.COM resides in another directory you would enter something like...

C:\edit\ted3

Now, no matter where TWTERM is being run from, you have access to TED3.COM

Should TWTERM not locate the file, an error message will be displayed.
However should it exist and you attempt to run it, but it doesn't work,
then chances are you don't have enough memory for the other utility to run.
TWTERM can not check for this since it has no way of knowing memory
requirements for all the utilities out there.

TIP: You can also use this feature to run DOS commands (much easier then
     shelling to DOS), to copy, move, or delete files.

------------->>>>>>>>  <CTRL> Z - TOGGLE DISPLAY  <<<<<<<<<<<---------------

This option allows for switching between 41 or 24 line display. Actually
both are 43 line displays. However the 41 and 24 refer to how many lines
of text are taken up by the TW display, while TWTERM uses the rest for
It's graphics display.

-------------->>>>>>>>  <CTRL> P - PRINT MENU  <<<<<<<<<<<----------------

Here you can print the many data files created by TWTERM, or any text
file for that matter. Even those created by other TW utilities.

Some printers may not be compatible with TWTERM. If you experience
difficulties, make sure you have selected the correct port your printer
is connected to. See TWTERM's Configuration Menu (F8) to select the correct
port.

Some printers may not be compatible at all. To print a text file to those
printers, use TWTERM's Utility Menu (F10). Here you can type in the DOS
command: "COPY filename.ext PRN" and run it from there. This will use DOS
to send a text file to the printer. Just specify a filename and extension
before running it.

--------->>>>>>>>>>>  <CTRL> Y - DATABASE RESET  <<<<<<<<<<<<--------------

This menu will allow you to do 2 things..

Reset Default Values:  Reloads .CFG file, Saves Busted Ports info, Resets
                       trading percentages to default values.

Refresh Database:      Loads .SCT and .PRT data. Used after downloading
                       CIM files, or after heavy exploring and you wish
                       to save all sector info currently in memory.
                       Also saves to disk amy other info in memory, such as
                       recent ports you were busted at.

-------------->>>>>>>>  <CTRL> C - CIM ACCESS  <<<<<<<<<<<-----------------

This feature access TW's CIM (Computer Interrogation Mode). Here you will
find all the data on the sectors and ports you have explored.

TWTERM can download 2 files that contain the info on your universe. Both
files are given a file name that is the same name you use for "gamename"
The file containing sector info has an extension of .SCT, while the
port file uses an extension of .PRT.

Depending on how much of the universe you have explored this d/l of data
can take some time (depends on modem speed and size of universe). Because
of this you are given the option to download just the .SCT, or just the
.PRT or both.

If you have explored 100% you'll never need to download the .SCT again,
and if you haven't done any exploring since the last download, you can
skip downloading it. The .PRT on the other hand changes daily as folks
play. I would recommend downloading it once for each day you plan to do
trading or any other activity involving ports.

You can abort the download once it has started by hitting <ESC>. However
should you do this.. you may find yourself at the CIM prompt. If so, you
can get back to TW by hitting "Q" to exit CIM.

Once you have d/l the files and returned to TW, TWTERM will automatically
reload your new sector and port info.

Cannot use this feature off-line.

-------->>>>>>>>  <CTRL> B - BLACK BOX/FLIGHT RECORDER  <<<<<<<<<<<--------

This baby is like the black box in an airplane. It records your every move.
When on-line and you run this feature it RECORDS your playing session.
When off-line and you run this feature, it PLAYs BACK your recorded playing
session.

I like to think of it as a VCR tape of my playing session. The .TWT file
is the tape and TWTERM is the VCR. When off-line simply hit <CTRL> B and
your playing session is played back in full 3D graphics and sound.

This feature comes in handy when working off-line.
* Handy in reviewing mistakes you may have made, or reviewing something
  you may have missed.
* Corp members will find it invaluable when replaying another teammates
  playing session.
* Create a capture file of it off-line for later scanning by TWTERM
* Use it as an aid in creating your macro's off-line

When running this off-line you can push the <PAUSE> key to temporarily halt
the display.

One word of caution though. This feature requires lot's of free disk space
for saving your playing session. Probably about 300K per 30 minutes of
play at 2400 baud. (Don't be concerned about size if you want to u/l to a
teammate. Since it is a text file, an 800K session will PKZIP to about
50K.)

***************************************************************************
Built-In Macros

With the exception of the "Single Port" macro, you'll need to have TWTERM's
POWER-Pak module to access all the other Built-In macros.

<ALT> A   Lower Alignment
Not available in the MajorBBS versions of Trade Wars.

Start at the Stardock main prompt. Lowers your alignment by 1 point for every experience point you wish to spend. Costs no turns or credits
to lower your alignment, only experience points (unless you have no
experience points, then it'll cost you nothing but time).

Takes about 4 minutes to lower alignment by 200 points at 14.4 baud.

<ALT> T   Paired Port Trader

Start from TW's Main prompt, and make sure you are in the sector of one
of the ports. Hit <ALT> T and you will be prompted as to what type of
trading you want to do. Equip/Org, Equip/Fuel, or Org/Fuel.

Since Equip/Org is the most used, it is the default choice if you wish
to just press <ENTER> at this prompt.

This macro will port, move, select the right products, and haggle for you.
This macro keeps running till you end it or the products on hand run low.

<ALT> P   Single Port

This one is used when you just want to port, trade, and move on. You'll
do this a lot when exploring or travelling.

This macro also selects the most profitable commodity for you. For instance
if a port sells 2 or 3 items, it will get the best item. If you want
to purchase something else then the best available, then don't use this
macro.

NOTE: You do not need to be stopped in a sector to run this macro, you
      can run it while Auto-Warping (you'll see the TW prompt asking if
      you "Want to stop in this sector?". Instead of saying yes,just run
      the macro from there)

<ALT> E   Buy-Sell Equipment

Sometimes you can get more money selling a load of equipment then you can
running the Paired Port macro on ports not near capacity.

So if you find 2 adjacent ports, one buying equipment and one selling,
then run this macro to trade between them. I recommend starting the macro
in the sector with the port that BUYS. make sure you have a load of
equipment on your ship. You can also start it in the sector that sells, but
make sure your holds are empty. If they're not, run the Single Port macro
first to sell all and buy equipment.

<ALT> R   Rob Credits

Ok, so you've run the "Find Best Ports To Rob" feature in TWTERM. Now
you have a listing of ports that are full of credits to rob. Go to
those ports and run this macro.

However in TW 2.0 you can only rob once then you must port somewhere
else before you can come back and run this macro again on the same port.

NOTE: You do not need to be stopped in a sector to run this macro, you
      can run it while Auto-Warping (you'll see the TW prompt asking if
      you "Want to stop in this sector?". Instead of saying yes,just run
      the macro from there)

<ALT> S   Steal Equipment

Use this to port, then steal a load of equipment. Make sure you're holds
are empty before attempting to steal, and that the port has enough product
on hand to steal.

NOTE: You do not need to be stopped in a sector to run this macro, you
      can run it while Auto-Warping (you'll see the TW prompt asking if
      you "Want to stop in this sector?". Instead of saying yes,just run
      the macro from there)

<ALT> C   Sell/Steal/Move Loop

This macro will dock at a Port that buys Equipment. Sells the Equipment
you have then steals it backs. It then moves to an adjacent sector you
specify and does it again. It then returns to the previous sector and starts
the routine all over again.

You will need a load of Equipment on your ship before running this macro.

<ALT> Q   Sell/Steal/Transport Loop

This macro will dock at a Port that buys Equipment. Sells the Equipment
you have then steals it backs. It then uses the ship transporter to take
you to another of your ships where you can do it again.

You will need a load of Equipment on both ships before running this macro.

<ALT> Z   Paired-Port Robbing

So you found two adjacent ports, that both contain credits (usually 2 ports
that both sell equipment). This macro will take you back and forth, robbing
your limit. To figure the amount you can rob, multiply your experience by
six.

<ALT> K   Colonize Planet

This macro requires you to have a Planet Scanner, or at least 2 planets
in sector 1 and your home sector.

So you started a planet and now need colonists. Start from the sector of
your home planet. Make sure the path to sector 1 is clear of enemy fighters
and mines. Start the macro. It will take you to sector 1, land, fill up
with colonists, then return back to your planet where it will land and
deposit the colonists.

This macro also allows you the option of using a Transwarp Drive for
colonizing should you so desire (can also use a planets Transporter). If
you are using the Trans-Warp, then you must have enough ore on your ship to
transwarp from sector 1 back to your planet BEFORE running the macro.
Figure 3 holds of ore for every hop. You can even transwarp INTO sector 1
(provided your a commissioned player)

Whenever you are done with transportation, just press the <ESC> key to end
this macro.

NOTE: If this macro hangs on you, make sure you have specified whether your
ship has a Trans-Warp Drive (F2). If you have an incorrect setting then
reset and restart the macro.

<ALT> O   Planet Trader

Start in the same sector as your planet. Make sure there is a port there
to use, and your holds are empty.

You can choose between 3 options:

 1) Sell planet commodities (great for unloading unwanted product or when
    raping a planet you just invaded).

 2) Buy commodities for your planet (great when you need to start a planet,
    or to fill a Q-Cannon with Fuel Ore.)

 3) Trade between planet and port. While it sells an unwanted product to
    the port, it also buys a product you want (maybe Ore for Q-Cannon) and
    puts it on the planet.

This macro runs till you stop it or until the product on hand is less then
the number of holds used in the transaction.

NOTE: If this macro hangs on you, make sure you have specified whether your
ship has a Planet Scanner (F2). If you have an incorrect setting then reset
and restart the macro.

<ALT> M   Maintain Planet

This macro you can start while on the planet or in the sector. If you start
while on the planet, the macro finishes with you on the planet. If you
start from the sector you will end in the sector.

If there is no Citadel on the planet (or only a level 1) it grabs the
fighters and puts them on your ship (make sure you have room for them first
before starting the macro).

Run the macro once for each planet in the sector.

NOTE: If this macro hangs on you, make sure you have specified whether your
ship has a Planet Scanner (F2). If you have an incorrect setting then reset
and restart the macro.

<ALT> Y   Planet Transfers

With this macro you can transfer product or colonists from one planet to
another.

<ALT> L   Launch Disruptor

Use this when you want to eradicate mines in a sector. Make sure you have
some disruptors first and are adjacent to the sector with the mines.

Start the macro, tell it the number of Disruptors to fire, and into what
sector. Then sit back and watch the fireworks (and I mean "Fireworks"
literally, as you view the mines explode in vivid color).

<ALT> F   Fire Photon

Fires a photon missile into an adjacent sector, then moves you into that
sector.

<ALT> U   Unlock/Lock Underground

Make sure you are at the Stardock main prompt when you begin this macro.
Also make sure you have a few thousand credits on you.

Start the macro, and it will go to the Grimy Trader and get the password,
then take you to the Underground, gives the password and Bingo! you're in.
When asked for a new password, it gives one that is rather complex thus
making it very hard for anyone else to get into the Underground.

Ever see passwords like this? "#!@$#$R&^&)(*&_**^&*(&^*&^^*^&*(*&(*&*&"
No problem with this macro. You don't have to type a single character.
Not available in any other TW utility! (at the time of this writing)

***************************************************************************
How To Read The .TRD File

Your .TRD file lists the days, any Traders trail you have picked up, and
notes you may have made for that day. Also records any traders you may
have come across during your play.

TWTERM gathers this info from "Docking Reports" and from your "opening
messages ". When displayed in the .TRD file, dockings are left-justified"
while findings in your messages (you get these when traders enter sectors
where you have placed fighters or mines) are indented one space.

You will also notice, that Docking reports use the ships name and the other
uses the Traders name. If you find a ships name in your .TRD file that has
a time close to a traders name, then you will know the name of that traders
ship. (in case you want to change ships names for some reason).

Also you will notice a listing of the times the sectors were visited. To
find where you fit on that listing. Look for the time you played (top line)
go down the list and see who has the time right before you. That is the
player who played last, all times below and above that are the times others
entered those sectors within the last 24 hours.

You can use these times to track down other players movements and where they
are. But you can also use them for setting traps. After you have a few
days of reports in your .TRD file, you should be able to spot sectors or
complete paths that another trader is using. Well, I don't have to tell
you what to do with those paths, do I?

Special note: It may be possible to find cloaked players. Just go to the end
of their trail. Do a density scan. If you get a report of an Anomoly, and no
unusual density ready (still says 0 or 100 or 500). A player may be cloaked
in that sector.
***************************************************************************
If the program doesn't work

If you have trouble getting this program to run properly,  check this
document or MODMHELP.DOC. Chances are you will find information to help
you there. If you can't find the solution to your problem in the document
feel free to contact me at the places listed below.

   VOICE: [phone]
    MAIL: 11955 209th St, Lakewood, CA 90715
     BBS: Trade Wars conferences on RIME, Metrolink, MajorNet, and Wildnet
INTERNET: [e-mail]

 SUPPORT BBS: 1-213-221-0127
              Log on with this name: *Willy Boy Software
              for instant access. 6 lines, supports all modems.

              Conference 4 is my personal support conference where you
              can address problems or bugs you may experience.

You can Freq TWTERM at: 1-213-227-7127  using the magic name of TWTERM
             Fido node: 1:102/757

***************************************************************************
Special Thanks

For all their help in the development of TWTERM, I'd like to take this
moment to give special thanks to David Spellman, Sysop of PhotoPro! who
graciously has provided a distribution and support outlet for my programs.

Special thanks to Primus, Jim Bray, for their help in beta-testing
(so if you find a bug, blame them), and all the many other folks (too
numerous to mention) who contributed ideas in product features/design.
Thanks to Mike Brown (in Virginia) for his help in making TWTERM compatible
with the MajorBBS version of Trade Wars.

Thanks to Annex BBS and all it's players for allowing me access to TW
for 3-5 hours everyday while I coded TWTERM 3.0.

***************************************************************************
That's all there is to it. Happy hunting, and I hope it helps add to your
personal arsenal of tools for Trade Wars. If you should have
any suggestions or ideas about TWTERM, or if you find a bug drop me a line.

TWTERM has a long way to go before it becomes the Ultimate Term. I can only
do it with your support. So please, join the TWTERM family and help make
this term the best it can be.

Will Boyett