DP Tool Club 19/CD_ASCQ_19_010295.iso/vrac/pafrc944.zip/INSTALL.ZIP/PAFRV.DES

Text File | 1994-12-01 | 41KB | 680 lines

           ╔══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
           ║      Description of PAF Review - From File PAFRV.DES     ║
           ╟──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────╢
           ║  PAF Review    -    Edition 94.4    -    December 1994   ║
           ╚══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝

     ╔═════════════════╗
     ║ Why PAF Review? ║
     ╚═════════════════╝
     I  am  an  avid family history researcher, a PAF user, and an interested
     observer  of  the  electronic  bulletin board phenomena.  In late 1992 I
     started  searching  to  see what utilities might be available to enhance
     PAF.   I  looked  first on my favorite local boards where I only found a
     few  PAF-related  utilities.   Next I tried some of the largest BBSes in
     the  country,  where I found a few more.  I then checked in CompuServe's
     Genealogy  Forum  and  found  even  more  programs.  After several weeks
     of searching, I was excited to find I had located more than 50 programs!
     However  this  required my contacting and sorting through the file lists
     of several dozen different BBSes.

     PAF  is  used  by  a  great  many  genealogists.   It  surprised me that
     shareware  for  PAF  was not readily available.  During my search I also
     found it next to impossible to determine which was the latest version of
     each  program  or  to  locate  current  copies.   Perhaps  someday  file
     distribution networks like Genealogy Software Distribution System (GSDS)
     and   the   International   Genealogy   Association's   (IGA_NET)   File
     Distribution  Network  (FDN)  will solve this problem, making the latest
     versions  of  these  files  rapidly available throughout the world.  For
     now,  it still takes some sleuth work and lots of long distance calls to
     find  what you are looking for!  GSDS files have now become available on
     a  satellite-based  transmission service called Planet Connect which has
     greatly increased the number of BBSes where these utilities are found.

     PAF  Review  is  an effort to share the information I've gathered and to
     save others the same time and expense.  I hope this will help make these
     programs  widely available and encourage present and potential shareware
     authors  to  continue  their  development  of quality utilities for PAF.
     This  newsletter  covers  programs and other files for IBM PC compatible
     computers  which  are helpful to users of PAF or to programmers who want
     to  access  data  from  PAF.  This includes programs aimed at easing the
     transfer  of  information  between  PAF  and  other  genealogy programs,
     including FamilySearch.  It also includes programs that use GEDCOM files
     as  the  source  for  producing  charts,  graphs,  etc.  There are a few
     utilities  available  which  enhance the Apple Macintosh version of PAF.
     Presently  these  are  not  described  in  detail,  but they are briefly
     covered  in  a short listing to follow.  The main focus of PAF Review is
     on software for the IBM PC which can generally be obtained via modem.

     ╔═════════════════════════════════╗
     ║ What About Commercial Programs? ║
     ╚═════════════════════════════════╝
     There are several PAF enhancements that are available only as commercial
     products.   Presently  these  are not described in PAF Review but I have
     included  several  programs  which  are  restricted versions (designated
     Demo) or which have newer versions that are commercial programs.  In the
     future  I  may expand the scope of PAF Review to include all PAF related
     software, whether shareware or commercial.
     PAF Review          Edition 94.4 (December 1994)       PAFRV.DES Page  2

     ╔═══════════════════════════════════════╗
     ║ What About Programs for the MacIntosh ║
     ╚═══════════════════════════════════════╝
     An interested correspondent sent me a list of shareware programs for the
     Apple  MacIntosh  version  of  PAF.  I don't have a MacIntosh PC or this
     version  of  PAF  but  I've  included  his list in this section and I'll
     attempt to keep it up to date. I won't be able to prepare "INF" files or
     include  the  programs  in the PAF Utility collection that I distribute.
     I'm  told that all are available on both CompuServe  and America Online.
     I  will  attempt  to  put  correspondents in touch with sources of these
     programs.  MacIntosh utilities at present include the following nine:

     AF2MacPAF v.1.0? takes a GEDCOM file created from the LDS Ancestral File
     and cleans it up so Mac PAF can properly interpret it.  Freeware? by ??.

     G2TT  v.1.0 produces Tiny Tafels after extracting the information from a
     GEDCOM file.  Includes a Tiny Tafel editor.  Freeware by Clyde T. Poole.

     GEDPAN  v.1.0?   Gedcompanion reads GEDCOM files on the Mac and produces
     "book like"  files,  tab  delimited text files for import to database or
     spreadsheet programs and Ahnentafel files.  A commercial program by Mark
     Taylor, P.O. Box 2034, Cupertino, CA  95015-2034.

     GEDTRA  v.1.0?   GEDTransfer allows you to export individual information
     from  a  GEDCOM  file  in either tab or comma delimited files for import
     into a database program.  Freeware by Itasca Softworks.

     MACGEN v.1.0?  MacGene2GED transfers individual information from MacGene
     to a GEDCOM file.  Freeware by Itasca Softworks.

     MACPAF  v.1.1 reads PAF data files and produces reports such as marriage
     and individual lists, anniversary and birthday lists, etc.  Features the
     ability to import picture files.  Shareware ($20) by Chris Miksanek, 190
     Oakland Grove, Elmhurst, IL  60126.

     MPRU  v1.2  (MacPAF  Report  Utility) is an add-on program for PAF which
     reads  its  files  and  produces various reports beyond the standard PAF
     reports and lists.  For all Macs.  Shareware ($20) by Joe Oglesby.

     MPRUX  v1.2  (MacPAF  Report Utility) is an add-on program for PAF which
     reads  its  files  and  produces various reports beyond the standard PAF
     reports and lists.  For 68020-40 Macs. Shareware ($20) by Joe Oglesby.

     RDFCVT  v.1.2  will  convert  a  GEDCOM  file  to  a Research Data Filer
     database and vice versa.  Shareware ($10) by Blake A. Rosenvall, 209 NE
     176th Ave., Vancouver, WA 98684.  Source code is available for $30.

     I'm  told  that  an  updated  version  of PAF for the MacIntosh has been
     prepared and it is currently in beta test.  There has been no indication
     when  it will be ready for release or how compatible it will be with the
     current version for the IBM PC.

     With  the right software you may be able to use some of the PC utilities
     in PAF Review.  I'm not speaking from experience but I've been told that
     you  can do this by using a PC emulation program such as SoftPC and with
     the help of "FR Convert" which comes with the Mac's PAF.
     PAF Review          Edition 94.4 (December 1994)       PAFRV.DES Page  3

     ╔═════════════════════════╗
     ║ Changes in This Edition ║
     ╚═════════════════════════╝
     This  edition  was  released  earlier  than  I had planned because of an
     error  regarding  Internet access that slipped into this file in edition
     94.3.  Although I sent corrective messages regarding the error, I didn't
     want  to  frustrate Internet readers who weren't aware of these messages
     There  were  not many new or changed programs because it has only been a
     few weeks since the previous edition.  However, there are several  other
     changes  that  I've  had  in  the  works  for  some time.  There are 172
     utilities  (including  the  9  MacIntosh  programs above) listed in this
     edition of PAF Review, up from 169 in the previous edition.  There are 3
     additions  including  one  for  the MacIntosh, 2 updated versions and no
     modified  descriptions.   Several  new .REV files have been added,  each
     containing a one page, subjective review of one particular utility.

     A  new  group  of  files  has  been added, using a suffix of .RPT.  Each
     contains  an  example  of  the  output  report(s) produced by one of the
     utilities.   In  some  cases  I  had  to  edit the reports slightly (for
     example  by  reducing the width) so they may not match what you will get
     exactly,  but I attempted to include enough so that without even getting
     a  copy  of  a particular program,  you can have a good idea of what you
     will  see  if  you  were  to  run that utility.   Note  that some of the
     programs  have  many report options and I only have room to show you one
     or  two  without  exceeding my self-imposed one page limit.  Over time I
     plan  to  add .RPT files for every utility that produces reports.

     A  new  file  has  also  been  added  which  lists  publications (books,
     booklets,  ideos, etc.) that are aimed specifically  at PAF users.  It's
     not  complete -- just  a start in this edition.  If you know of one that
     I  missed,  please  let  me  know.  The  list  of  BBSes  known  to be a
     dependable source of PAF utilities has also been modified slightly.

     I've  moved  to a new INSTALL utility starting in this edition.  It is a
     shareware  program called DseInstall.  It's not particularly  fancy, but
     it  will  allow the user to specify a disk and directory name where they
     want to install PAF Review, then automatically create the  new directory
     if required, after checking to make sure that enough  space is available
     to  complete  the  install.  I'm  hoping it will make the process just a
     little  bit  easier.   Please  note that the amount of space required to
     hold  PAF  Review  varies  depending  upon your hard disk configuration.
     Space  on  hard  disks is allocated in "clusters" which are one specific
     size  for any particular drive.  Since PAF Review is made up of a lot of
     small files and each file requires at least one cluster, it will require
     more  space  on  disks  which  allocate larger clusters.  Common cluster
     sizes  are  2048 and 4096 and in both cases PAF Review now requires from
     850kb  to  950kb.   If  your  disk  happened to have very large clusters
     (this  is  unusual except for massive hard drives) it could take several
     megabytes of disk space to hold PAF Review.

     PAFREV,  the new program that I recently added for displaying, searching
     and  printing the contents of PAF Review was changed slightly, mainly to
     accomodate  the  new .RPT files.  Now all the files that help describe a
     single  utility  (.INF, .REV and .RPT) will be next to each other in the
     selection  list.   I'd  really  appreciate  additional  feedback on this
     program.  Do you like it?  Do you have suggestions for improvement?
     PAF Review          Edition 94.4 (December 1994)       PAFRV.DES Page  4

     ╔═══════════════════════════════════╗
     ║ Copyright and Distribution Policy ║
     ╚═══════════════════════════════════╝
     Any  material  in PAF Review that is not quoted from others is copyright
     1994 by Mike St. Clair.  You may upload copies of PAF Review to a BBS or
     other information provider for free redistribution.  Shareware libraries
     and  distributors  may  include  PAF Review on diskettes or CD-ROMs that
     they  produce.  No  fee  may  be  charged  for  PAF Review by any of the
     previously listed organizations or by individuals  beyond  the  cost  of
     distribution.  BBSes  may  provide  PAF  Review for downloading and post
     portions  as  bulletins.   User  groups and genealogy  organizations may
     reprint  PAF Review or print portions in their newsletters.  Individuals
     and  nonprofit  organizations may use its material for any purpose other
     than  generating  income without further permission than what is granted
     in this section.  All other rights are reserved.

     ╔══════════════════════════════════════════════╗
     ║ File Naming/Edition Numbering for PAF Review ║
     ╚══════════════════════════════════════════════╝
     A  new CUMULATIVE edition of PAF Review is issued every few months.  The
     file  name  will be PAFRV followed by a year (YY) and an issue character
     starting with "1", incrementing until it reaches "9".  This edition, the
     fourth  in  1994,  is 94.4 with a file name of PAFRV944.ZIP.  Instead of
     ZIP,  the  file  extension may be LZH, ARJ, ARC, EXE, etc., depending on
     the  standards  of  the  BBS where you find the file.  On CompuServe the
     file name will always be PAFRV.ZIP.

     A  "Changes  Only" version is issued simultaneously with each cumulative
     version.   It  will  use  the same naming pattern but the file name will
     begin  with  PAFRC instead of PAFRV.  This smaller version only includes
     information  on  programs/files  that  have  changed  since the previous
     edition  of PAF Review.  A change could be a new program, a new version,
     or a revision of the description to correct or improve it.

     ╔═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
     ║ How You Can Submit Changes/Corrections/Suggestions/Comments ║
     ╚═════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝
     While I have tried to make the information in PAF Review as accurate and
     complete as possible, I'm sure there are omissions and mistakes.  Please
     contact me if you have any constructive suggestions.  I would especially
     appreciate hearing about new programs, new versions, or BBSes that carry
     the  majority  of these utilities.  To suggest additions or revisions to
     this material, contact me via:

           CompuServe:            71552,3314
           Internet:              [e-mail]
           GENIE:                 M.ST.CLAIR2
           BBS Conferences:       You  can  leave  messages addressed to Mike
                                  Stclair    on   most   genealogy   oriented
                                  conferences   on   most  BBS  networks.
           U.S. Mail:             327 N. 800 East, American Fork, Utah 84003
     PAF Review          Edition 94.4 (December 1994)       PAFRV.DES Page  5

     ╔════════════════════════════════════════╗
     ║ Where to Find these Utilities by Modem ║
     ╚════════════════════════════════════════╝
     The  following  BBSes will usually have recent versions.  The first six,
     all  among  the  largest  and  most popular BBSes in North America, only
     allow  paid subscribers to download.  The others allow some access at no
     charge.  FidoNet node numbers are in parenthesis, if applicable.  I will
     upload  any  utility  that  you  find  is missing to any listed BBS upon
     receiving a specific request for an individual utility via any genealogy
     specific conference.  I will also honor such requests for uploads to any
     BBS  which  supports  9600  baud modem connections and on which you have
     made arrangements with your Sysop for me to have upload privileges.

           Channel 1                   [phone] Boston, MA
           CRS Online                  [phone] Toronto Canada area
           EXEC-PC                     [phone] Milwaukee, WI area
           Executive Network           [phone] Mt. Vernon, NY
           Nite Log                    [phone] Monterrey, CA
           PC-OHIO (157/200)           [phone] Cleveland, OH
           ANCESTRY (18/230)           [phone] Sebring, FL
           Bayou Bend (106/71)         [phone] Houston, TX
           Capital PAF Users (109/422) [phone] Wash. D.C. area
           Dungeness Light BBS         [phone] Olympic Penninsula, WA
           Family Historian            [phone] San Diego, CA
           FamilySearch                [phone] Salt Lake City, UT
           GeneSplicers (209/720)      [phone] Las Vegas, NV
           Hackers Haven (312/90)      [phone] Provo/Orem, UT
           Kandy Shack                 [phone] Garden Grove, CA
           Metchosin Central           [phone] Victoria, B.C. area
           NGS/CIG (109/302)           [phone] Wash. D.C. area
           Roots(SF!) (125/30)         [phone] San Francisco, CA
           ShareCity                   [phone] West Jordan, UT
           Your Roots (311/10)         [phone] Salt Lake City, UT

     The  files  are  also  available  on the Internet via anonymous FTP:  At
     ftp.cac.psu.edu    look    in    directory    /pub/genealogy/paf.     At
     genesplicer.org     look     in     directories     ~ftp/GSDS/PAF    and
     ~ftp/GSDS/programs.   You  can  also  retrieve  them  by  FTP  Mail from
     [e-mail].   Your  message should contain the single line
     "get filename" where file name is the file you want.  The requested file
     will  be  transferred  as one or more eMail message in UUENCODED format.
     For  a  complete list of the files available at genesplicer.org, request
     allfiles.lzh.

     Any  BBS  that  deals  with  genealogy,  particularly  if  part of GSDS,
     IGA_Net,  or  Planet  Connect will have some of these files.  Your local
     FidoNet  BBS  system  operator  may be willing to request files for you.
     Note  that BBSes often post several versions of shareware programs.  The
     version number is often part of the file description.  CompuServe limits
     file  names  to  six  characters  which  usually  match  the  first  six
     characters used in the BBS file name.
     PAF Review          Edition 94.4 (December 1994)       PAFRV.DES Page  6

     ╔═════════════════════════════════╗
     ║ Obtaining the Utilities by Mail ║
     ╚═════════════════════════════════╝
     You may obtain these programs by mail from the following sources:

     Toolson's  PAF  Services,  PO  Box 2726, Glen Allen, Virginia 23058-2726
     will  provide copies via mail.  Send a SASE for a catalog which includes
     other  genealogical  software.   The  cost is $3 per disk plus $2.50 for
     postage  and  handling.   Each  disk includes several related utilities.
     You can also order by phone by calling [phone].

     The  Genealogy  Software Catalog, 3500 Gentry, Irving, TX 75062 can also
     provide  copies of any of these utilities.  The cost is $2 per disk.  By
     mail,  add  $1.50 postage and packaging for the first, and $.50 for each
     additional diskette.

     For  a copy of the entire set of files, send formatted diskettes (eleven
     3.5" HD/1.4MB or thirteen 5.25" HD/1.2MB) and a large addressed diskette
     mailer  with  the  correct postage.  If this issue of PAF Review is more
     than  two  months  old,  please  increase the number of diskettes by one
     since  the  collection has probably grown.  If you are close to the line
     on  return  postage,  I'd appreciate your adding an extra stamp for good
     measure.   I  include  two  pages  of  documentation  in addition to the
     diskettes  and  in  quite  a number of instances that has been enough to
     bump the package into the next rate category.

     Those  in  the U.S. should consider using Priority Mail.  This will cost
     you  $2.90  each way, a little more than you would have to pay for first
     class, but in my experience this results in a faster and safer trip.  If
     you are not in the U.S., instead of including stamps for your mailer you
     can send IRCs, which can be purchased from your own postal service.

     If you prefer, send me a check for $20.00 to cover costs and I'll return
     the  collection  to  you on my diskettes (please indicate 3.5" or 5.25")
     and  in  my  packaging.   For  updates, return two diskettes to me and a
     similar  mailer  or send a check for $5.  The updates will automatically
     be  sent a few months later.  For international mailing please add $5 to
     cover  the  overseas  postage.   Please  be  patient.  Although I aim to
     return  any  diskettes within a three weeks of my receiving them, it can
     sometimes take a month or two (or even longer!) for your diskettes to be
     sent  depending  on the number of outstanding requests and other current
     happenings in my life.

     ╔═══════════════════════════════════════╗
     ║ File Listing - Contents of PAF Review ║
     ╚═══════════════════════════════════════╝
     The following files are included in PAF Review:

     README.PRV  -  A brief list of the files in the comprehensive version of
     PAF Review (PAFRV).  Also tells how to display or print the contents.

     README.PRC  - A brief list of the files in the "Changes only" version of
     PAF Review (PAFRC). Also tells how display or print the contents.

     README.CHG  -  A  quick look at what utilities have been updated in this
     edition of PAF Review.
     PAF Review          Edition 94.4 (December 1994)       PAFRV.DES Page  7

     PAFRV.DES  -  Contains  a description of the purpose and contents of PAF
     Review.   It also solicits help from shareware authors and users to help
     keep PAF Review up to date and tells how to submit proposed updates.

     PAFRV.SUM  - Contains a summary of known PAF or GEDCOM related utilities
     including:   name; latest version; version's date; size for downloading;
     shareware, freeware or demo; requested fee; author; and a description of
     no more than two lines.

     PAFRV.IDX - A simple index of the utilities by category

     BOOKS.PAF - A list of publications for PAF users

     XXXXXXXX.INF  -  Each INF file will be one printed page and describe one
     program in more detail, including the file name by which it is found.

     XXXXXXXX.REV  -  Each  REV  file  will contain recent, subjective review
     information  about a particular program.  There are still only a few REV
     files in this edition.

     XXXXXXXX.RPT  -  Each  RPT  file  will  contain an example of the output
     report(s)  produced  by  a particular program.  There are only a few RPT
     files in this edition but more will be added with each new edition.

     PAFREV.EXE - A new program which can be used to display, search or print
     from the other files in PAF Review.

     PAFREV.HLP - Provides on-line help for PAFREV.EXE.

     PAFREV.VER - Identifies the current edition for PAFREV.EXE.

     ╔═══════════════════════╗
     ║ For Shareware Authors ║
     ╚═══════════════════════╝
     PAF  Review may help you be more successful if current information about
     your  products  is included.  I would be pleased to receive revisions or
     new  utilities  by  mail.   It's my goal to see that the software in PAF
     Review  is  widely  available.  I will be regularly sending or uploading
     copies  to  many of the locations identified in "Where to Find" Section.
     I  am  also  promoting  distribution  of these files on the Genealogical
     Software  Distribution  System  (GSDS)  and  IGA_Net's File Distribution
     Network  (FDN),  which  together reach all parts of the U.S. and Canada,
     along  with  some other locations world-wide.  If you notify me that you
     would  like  your software distributed on these networks, I will arrange
     this for you and deliver copies to the originating network nodes.

     ╔═══════════════════════════════════╗
     ║ Important Remarks About Shareware ║
     ╚═══════════════════════════════════╝
     Many shareware authors develop programs for themselves in response to an
     immediate  need.  They soon find these projects take ever larger amounts
     of  time if the program is to become easy, safe and enjoyable to use for
     the  average PAF user.  The most important thing you can do to encourage
     the  author  is  to  provide  feedback.  Do you like the program?  Is it
     useful?   How  do  you  use it?  Are there problems?  Is it the greatest
     thing since sliced bread?!  Please tell the author!
     PAF Review          Edition 94.4 (December 1994)       PAFRV.DES Page  8

     It's  also  important  to register products you use regularly and make a
     payment if called for. It costs money and takes a lot of time to develop
     good  software.   The authors deserve and need your financial support in
     return  for the software you find beneficial and therefore use.  The fee
     is  usually very nominal compared to commercial software purchases - and
     you can try the software first to know if it works for you!

     I've  heard  from  a  number  of  PAF-related shareware authors who were
     "underwhelmed"  by  the  response  they  received.   Many  authors  stop
     developing  and improving their software because, without feedback, they
     assume  no one else recognized the genius of their idea.  Others turn to
     developing commercial only programs.  Let's not let that happen to these
     products that can make our research more productive.

     ╔════════╗
     ║ Caveat ║
     ╚════════╝
     Unless otherwise noted, the comments contained in PAF Review are my own.
     The  program descriptions are basically from the authors' documentation,
     either  printed  or  online,  which I may have edited to take less room.
     Any  review  comments  are  based  on  experience  with  the software in
     question,  either  my own or that of a correspondent.  While I take full
     responsibility  for  any  inadvertent  mistakes  and  for  my subjective
     opinions  contained  here  (don't blame the program's authors for what I
     say!),  I can take no responsibility for problems that occur because you
     use any program described in PAF Review.

     The  quality  of  the  programs  described in PAF Review varies greatly.
     Some  work well while others not so well; some have a very friendly user
     interface  while others are very difficult to use; some include complete
     user documentation while others include none.

           ╔════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
           ║  BE CAREFUL WHEN USING ANY NEW UTILITY OR VERSION OF PAF!! ║
           ╚════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝

     Try new software out first on a copy of your data.  Use FRCHK before and
     after  your  test to verify that you have data integrity both before and
     after  you  run the new software.  Back up your data frequently to allow
     you to recover from any problems that may occur.

     ╔═══════════╗
     ║ Wish List ║
     ╚═══════════╝
     The  following  "wishes" have been communicated by one or more PAF users
     over the past couple of months.

     Merge/Match:   A  repeated  wish  from  many is for a better merge-match
     process  with more intelligence built in, including merge-match within a
     single  PAF  database,  using multiple PAF databases, and using multiple
     GEDCOM  files.   Ann Turner has recently added some features along these
     lines to her commercial program PAF Split which might be just the ticket
     for  some of you.  Larry Maddocks is also considering doing something.
     PAF Review          Edition 94.4 (December 1994)       PAFRV.DES Page  9

     Custom  Reports:   Several  individuals  have  said they would like more
     extensive  custom  reporting  capabilities.   Jeff  Murphy is reportedly
     working  on PAFRPG, a report writer patterned after IBM's RPG language.

     Spell  Checking:   The  ability to check the spelling on the contents of
     PAF  notes.   Several  utilities  allow  the  movement  of notes to/from
     external  word  processors  where  the  spelling could be checked.  Some
     would like to do this directly in the NOTES file.

     Windows  Access  to PAF data:  Many wish there were a Windows version of
     PAF allowing use of the windows-supported proportional fonts for display
     and  printing.   George  Lawrence provided a partial answer with his PAF
     Viewer  for  Windows  but  didn't  complete  it.  His new Visual Family,
     currently under development, might satisfy this wish.

     Reports  Designed  to  be Imported into Wordprocessors:  The fixed pitch
     fonts  standard  in most printers do not produce as pleasing a report as
     the  proportional  fonts  now  available  on  most.  Many users now read
     reports from PAF and other utilities into a word processor and spend the
     time  required  to use proportional fonts.  This would  be  less work if
     reports would use tabs instead of spaces  to  position to the start of a
     column.  Eliminating the carriage return/line feed characters from lines
     that  are  part of a paragraph of flowing text would also be helpful for
     some  reports.  It's  possible  that  a program(s) could be written that
     could help in the translation after the fact.

     Support  of  Graphics:   Some  of  the other genealogy database programs
     allow  you  to  attach  and  display photos or other graphics.  Many PAF
     users  would  like  to do this.  For a start on this capability, see the
     new utility called PAFoc.

     Improved GEDCOM Viewers/Editors:  Many have expressed the need for these
     capabilities.    Most   of  those  available  are  rudimentary  or  have
     limitations.  Each edition there are more programs aimed at working with
     GEDCOM  files  including  GEDEDIT,  GEDVIEW and GEDREAD in this edition.
     But has THE RIGHT ONE appeared yet?  Let me know what you think.

     More  Condensed Family Group Sheets:  It's been pointed out that the FGS
     produced  by  PAF  take  a  lot  of  paper!  Especially if the notes are
     printed  or  the  number  of  children  doesn't closely match one page's
     worth.   A  FGS  that  is  more condensed would be an valuable addition,
     especially   if  it  looks  good,  contains  complete  information,  and
     eliminates wasted space.

     ╔═══════════════════════════╗
     ║ PAF Update - Version 2.3x ║
     ╚═══════════════════════════╝
     Many of you are probably using the newer revisions of PAF, 2.3 and 2.31.
     They  solved  problems  present  in the older versions, particularly for
     those  with  large  databases.   They  also  added  some  "ease  of use"
     features.   A  new  manual  was  not issued with version 2.3 but one was
     prepared  for  version  2.31.  There were no changes in the structure of
     the   data   files   so   there   were  few  implications  for  existing
     shareware/freeware  or  commercial  utilities.   2.31  did  add some new
     options  for  entry  in  date  fields  and  some  utility  software will
     require changes to recognize them.
     PAF Review          Edition 94.4 (December 1994)       PAFRV.DES Page 10

     There were some problems in version 2.3 (the details are included in the
     files described by PAFBUGL2.INF and PAFBUGU1.INF) and it was pulled from
     the  market.   The  corrections  were incorporated in version 2.31 which
     became  available  in  November.   It  fixes the known bugs and has been
     shipped  free  to  all purchasers of 2.3 who registered their copies.  A
     revised  manual will also be available for $8.  PAF is now available for
     purchase by new users after several months when it was off the market.

     ╔═══════════════════════════════════════════╗
     ║ PAF Utility Implications for Version 2.3x ║
     ╚═══════════════════════════════════════════╝
     I'll briefly mention implications for PAF 2.3 and 2.31 that I'm aware of
     at  this  point.  The files/programs COLORS, MOUSE-ON, PAFEMPTY, PAFHP4,
     and  PAFMOUSE  no longer serve any useful function with the new version.
     Version  2.31  now  includes  support for the HP Laser Jet 4 printers so
     PAFHP4 is not needed.  With the other mentioned files, the problems they
     were written to handle no longer exist.

     Jack  Chandler's  NAMCLEAN  utility  also  has  a small dependency.  Use
     versions  1.2B or higher with version 2.3 of PAF.  Earlier versions will
     not damage your data but can cause multiple identical names to appear in
     your  name  file.  FRCHK will neither detect nor correct this particular
     problem,  but  running  NAMCLEAN (even the older versions) a second time
     will  correct it.  If any other version dependencies appear they will be
     added to this section in the next edition of PAF Review.

     Barbara  Bennett's  popular  PAFAbility  interprets  PAF  date fields to
     produce text.  With the new date options in 2.31, you shouldn't use them
     if  you  depend  on PAFAbility until you see a new version - the current
     one is 2.07.

     Andy  Koppenhaver has revised his GED2TT program indicating that some of
     the  changes  were  made so it would be compatible with the GEDCOM files
     produced by PAF 2.3x.  I haven't found what those changes might be.

     ╔════════════════════════════════════════╗
     ║ PAF - How to Get Updates or New Copies ║
     ╚════════════════════════════════════════╝
     For those who would like version 2.31 of PAF, but don't yet have it:

     You should have received an update if:

       - you purchased the upgrade to 2.3 and registered it by sending in the
         registration card
       - you  ordered the upgrade to 2.3 but you didn't received your copy or
         a refund

     In the above cases, you should have automatically receive an upgrade kit
     consisting  of  a  3.5"  floppy and an order form allowing you to obtain
     5.25"  diskettes  or a revised manual.  The new manual will cost $8.  If
     your update hasn't arrived you should call.

     If  you didn't register version 2.3, send your registration card and you
     will  receive  the upgrade kit for free.  If you didn't register version
     2.2, send your card now with $4 and you will receive the upgrade kit.
     PAF Review          Edition 94.4 (December 1994)       PAFRV.DES Page 11

     If  you received the form for ordering the 2.3 upgrade and never sent it
     in,  you  can  send  it  now  with  the $4 fee it calls for and you will
     receive the upgrade kit.

     Please note that the upgrade options are only available through 3/95.

     If you have never owned PAF and want to buy a copy now, here's how.
     If  you live within driving distance of Salt Lake and would like to pick
     one  up  in  person,  the  complete PAF 2.31 is now available at the LDS
     Church  Distribution  Center at 1999 West 1700 South in Salt Lake and at
     the  FamilySearch  Center  in  the  Joseph  Smith Memorial Building just
     across  from Temple Square.  It still sells for $35 and includes the new
     manuals  along  with 3.5" and 5.25" diskettes.  From certain states, you
     have to state sales tax as well.

     If  you  want  to  order  a  copy  by  phone,  you  can do so by calling
     800-346-6044.  If an 800 number doesn't work for you, you can call (801)
     240-2584 to order.

     ╔═════════════════════════════════════════╗
     ║ PAF Review Has Lasted Almost Two Years! ║
     ╚═════════════════════════════════════════╝
     It's now approaching two years since the inaugural edition of PAF Review
     rolled  off  the  electronic  presses.   Although  this project has been
     demanding  at  times,  it  has  been  rewarding.   Isn't  it amazing how
     rapidly,  and  how  far, a document can travel through "the wires." As a
     result,  I've  sent out hundreds of copies of the PAF utility collection
     throughout the U.S, Australia, New Zealand, England, Germany and Canada.

     In  the  process,  I've also talked electronically with folks all around
     the  world:  Australia, New Zealand, a tiny island in mid-Pacific that I
     can neither spell nor pronounce, Finland, Denmark, Poland, South Africa,
     several  Canadian  Provinces,  Hong  Kong,  Singapore,  France, Germany,
     Scotland,  England,  etc.   It's  exciting  to  see the world is growing
     smaller  every  day,  and to see the level of cooperation and comraderie
     that  occurs  among  genealogists  around  the  globe.  Many of you have
     expressed   appreciation   for  my  attempt  to  make  this  information
     available.   It's been gratifying to know that my efforts have been both
     valued and appreciated.

     I  look  forward  to  many  more  years  of  PAF Review, and to continue
     promoting more widespread and effective use of genealogical software.

     ╔═════════════════╗
     ║ Closing Remarks ║
     ╚═════════════════╝
     I  hope  my  efforts  make it easier for you to find a utility that will
     help  you  solve  your  PAF  problem of the moment.  See my column, also
     called PAF Review, in the National Genealogical Society's NGS/CIG Digest
     for  additional  information on PAF-related software.  If you don't find
     the  software  you are looking for, let me know that too.  I'll add this
     information  to the wish list section of PAF Review so potential program
     authors can hear what is needed but not available.  Right now someone is
     probably  thinking  about  writing  the  program  you  need.   It may be
     included in a future version of PAF Review; perhaps even the next one!
     PAF Review          Edition 94.4 (December 1994)       PAFRV.DES Page 12

     ╔══════════════════╗
     ║ Acknowledgements ║
     ╚══════════════════╝
     I  acknowledge  that  a  number  of the names included in PAF Review are
     trade  marks  or the property of their respective owners.  These include
     IBM,  Apple,  HP,  PAF, GSDS, and names of networks, BBSes and software.
     Many  have encouraged and assisted in the production of PAF Review.  I'd
     like  to  acknowledge the following for their special assistance.

     My  wife Anna, who patiently lets me spend more time on the computer and
     the modem than most wives would tolerate.

     Ann Turner, who shared information about her shareware, sent good advice
     and helped me get involved in GEnie.

     Carla  Ridenour,  who  let  carry  my crusade to the printed page in the
     National Genealogical Society's NGS/CIG Digest.

     Debbi McKay, who provided access to The Skeleton Closet BBS and answered
     my  questions  about  GSDS.  She also helped me recover when I mistook a
     commercial program for shareware in the first edition of PAF Review.

     Dick  Nowlin,  who  pointed  out  several utilities I was unaware of and
     shared his insights on several of them.

     George   Archer,  who  shared  information  that  he  had  gathered  for
     publication  at  the  1993  national NGC conference.  His valuable books
     covering  genealogical  software  of  all kinds are now available on the
     market.

     Jack  Chandler,  who  regularly  sends  copies  of all his shareware and
     shares his wisdom about how PAF works.  He also uploaded early copies of
     PAF Review to GEnie for me.

     John  Grove,  who  provided access to his BBS system, helped me find and
     distribute PAF software, and educated me about FidoNet and GSDS.

     Richard  Pence,  who pointed the way to the available genealogy oriented
     BBS systems through his monthly GBBS list.

     Scott Toolson, who shared the PAF utilities he gathered as librarian for
     the Silicon Valley PAF Users Group.

     Stephen  Wood,  who  helped  set  up  an early distribution site for PAF
     utilities on Internet.

     I  would  also like to thank: BBS Sysops all around the country who have
     allowed  me  access  to  their  systems in tracking down programs or who
     are  posting  the  programs  for  the  benefit of their local PAF users;
     Program  authors  who  sent  information,  provided software copies, and
     answered my questions; too  many others to name who sent me ideas, tips,
     lists,  etc;  And especially  those  who  requested  copies  of  the PAF
     utilities and are helping to disseminate them in their own areas.

     Happy PAFfing!  - Mike St. Clair