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{COMMO} (tm)
"A New Standard in Telecommunications"
by Fred P. Brucker
Part I
User Guide and Reference
Release 5.52
October 14, 1993
(C)Copyright 1989-1993 Fred P. Brucker All Rights Reserved
The {COMMO} program and associated on-disk documentation are the property
of the author and may not be sold without permission. The Shareware
version may be distributed, unaltered and as a unit, via Electronic
Bulletin Board Systems.
SHAREWARE DISTRIBUTORS and clubs, please see the file VENDOR.DOC for
distribution guidelines.
THE AUTHOR DOES NOT GUARANTEE THIS PROGRAM TO BE FREE FROM DEFECTS AND MAY
NOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR LOSS CAUSED BY SUCH. YOUR USE OF THIS PROGRAM
CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THESE TERMS.
{COMMO} is a trademark of Fred P. Brucker
DESQview is a trademark of Quarterdeck Office Systems
OmniView is a trademark of Sunny Hill Software
DoubleDOS is a trademark of SoftLogic Solutions, Inc.
HS/Link is a product of Samuel H. Smith
DSZ and GSZ are products of Omen Technology Inc.
MPt is a product of Matthew Thomas
LIST is a product of Vernon D. Buerg
The IBM PC and OS/2 are products of IBM Corp.
MS-DOS and Windows are trademarks of MicroSoft Corp.
================================
{COMMO} Registration Information
================================
{COMMO} is a "SHAREWARE" product. You are entitled to evaluate it for
30 days. If it suits your needs and you would like to continue using
it, then you must pay the licensing fee. Please use the REGISTRATION
FORM on the next page.
When you REGISTER you will be licensed to use all future SHAREWARE
releases of {COMMO}. You will never have to pay an "update" charge.
You will also receive instructions for removing the Shareware Notice
at program startup. Registered users will receive priority support
on Bulletin Boards and CompuServe (see READ.ME).
Call or write for pricing information on MULTI-USER (SITE) and
DISTRIBUTION licenses. Discounts are given on quantities of 10 or more.
All prices shown are US DOLLARS. Please remit US FUNDS on US BANK only.
NET 30 TERMS will be accepted on purchase orders totalling $100.00 or
more.
The PRINTED MANUAL has an attractive new size and format for release
5.5 and includes an index. The DISKETTE has the latest {COMMO} release
plus the utilities listed in READ.ME (COMMOPNS, MOSTHOST, CMC, etc.).
For orders, inquiries and support for registered users, call MON-SAT,
9am-5pm, EASTERN time. If you get my answering machine, please try
again later (I cannot return long distance calls).
To register by E-mail on CompuServe or Internet, upload the completed
Registration Form as a message (text or binary).
MAILING ADDRESS: Fred P. Brucker
P.O. Box 141537
Columbus, OH 43214
VOICE TELEPHONE: (614) 326-1309
COMPUSERVE: 71021,356
INTERNET: 71021.356@compuserve.com
PAYMENT OPTIONS:
1) CHECK or MONEY ORDER: make payable to FRED P. BRUCKER.
2) CREDIT CARD: fill in the credit card information at the bottom of
the Registration Form (next page). Credit card orders may be mailed,
phoned or E-mailed (CompuServe only).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
{COMMO} 5.52 SINGLE USER REGISTRATION FORM
Name _______________________________________________________________
Company name (if company address) ____________________________________
Address _______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
* All prices include shipping and handling * Number
of Copies
{COMMO} single user license with PRINTED MANUAL and DISKETTE:
Price in USA/Canada/Mexico ....................... $ 53.00 ____
OHIO residents (includes sales tax ) ............. 56.05 ____
All other countries .............................. 60.00 ____
{COMMO} single user license, with DISKETTE:
All countries .................................... 40.00 ____
OHIO residents (includes sales tax) .............. 42.30 ____
{COMMO} single user LICENSE alone:
All countries .................................... 35.00 ____
OHIO residents (includes sales tax ) ............. 37.02 ____
BBS sysops, students, seniors, low-income:
All countries .................................... 25.00 ____
OHIO residents (includes sales tax ) ............. 26.44 ____
License only; please state category ______________
>>>>>>> Specify diskette format (if applicable): 5.25" ____ 3.5" ____
Payment method: Check__ Money order__ Visa__ MasterCard__
Carte Blanche__ Diners Club__ JCB__ PO__
Enter total amount: $ ____________
INFORMATION FOR CREDIT CARD PURCHASES ONLY:
Card No. ________ ________ ________ ________ Expires ____/____
Cardholder signature _____________________________________________
Cardholder name __________________________________________________
Daytime telephone (_____) _____ _______
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Answers to the following questions will help me serve you better in the
future:
How did you obtain {COMMO}? (If BBS, please give name and phone number)
________________________________________________________________________
In general terms, what do you use {COMMO} for?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
What type of computer and modem do you use?
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Comments / Questions ___________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
Thank you, and I hope you enjoy {COMMO}.
-6-
========
Contents
========
Program Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Principal Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
The Best Way to Learn {COMMO} Quickly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Quick Start Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Preparing Your System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Command Line Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
{COMMO} Support Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Saving the Support Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Initialization Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Terminal Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
{COMMO} Key Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
[Alt-A] ASCII Upload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
[Alt-B] Send Break Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
[Alt-C] Clear Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
[Alt-D] Dialing Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Dialing Directory Entry Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
[Alt-G] Edit Setup File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Predefining Variables with SET . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Explanation of Setup File Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
[Alt-H] Hang Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
[Alt-I] Screen Image Save . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
[Alt-K] Scrollback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
[Alt-M] Macro Processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
[Alt-N] Multi Number Dialing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
[Alt-O] Send Modem Initialization String . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
[Alt-P] Set Terminal Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Parameter Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
How to Set Terminal Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
[Alt-S] Shell to DOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
[Alt-T] Set Toggles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Sound Control Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Local Echo Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Signal Lights Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
[Alt-U] Utility Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
[Alt-W] Send Current Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
[Alt-X] Exit from {COMMO} . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
[Alt-1] Capture File Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
[Alt-2] Print Log Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
[Alt--] Chat Mode Toggle (Alt minus) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
[Alt-=] Doorway Mode Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
[F1] How to Use Online Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Modifying the Help File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
-7-
[PgUp]/[PgDn] Uploading/Downloading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Internal Protocols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
ASCII Upload/Download . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
External Protocols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Zmodem with DSZ or GSZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Zmodem with TXZM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Using HS/Link . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Using MPt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Using OZBEXT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
{COMMO} Auto Receive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Keyboard Macros: Customizing Key Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Appendix A: Setting Up Your Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Answering a call from another computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Connecting two computers (null modem cable) . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Appendix B {COMMO} and Multi-Tasking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
DESQview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
OS/2 and Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
OmniView . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
DoubleDOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Appendix C Flow Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Appendix D ASCII Character Representation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Appendix E Terminal Emulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
ANSI-BBS Keyboard Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
VT102 Keyboard Simulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Printer Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Appendix F Usage Log Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Appendix G Error Message Explanations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Appendix H Table of {COMMO} Key-labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Enhanced Keyboard Key-labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Appendix I List of Reserved Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Appendix J Macro Functions Listed by Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
-8-
========== Program Description
{COMMO} is a high-performance communications program. The comprehensive
macro programming (script) language provides the power to customize the
program and to automate any online or offline procedure.
{COMMO} handles high speed modems with ease, is fully DESQview aware and
uses plain text support files (Setup File, Dialing Directory and Macro
File). It is small in size, yet has an amazing amount of functionality (it
is written entirely in assembly language).
See the full list of features starting on the next page.
Minimum system configuration:
IBM PC compatible computer.
MS-DOS 2.1 or higher.
128k of memory.
One diskette drive.
A serial port or internal modem with an 8250, 16450 or 16550 series
UART chip.
{COMMO} can be configured to work with any type of modem.
{COMMO}
"A New Standard in Telecommunications"
-9-
========== Principal Features
{COMMO} is small in size, loads rapidly and performs all functions with
great speed.
The powerful Macro Processor allows you to:
o Write macro "scripts" to automate many common operations such as
logging in, reading messages, uploading/downloading. {COMMO}
will perform these tasks in the middle of the night while you
sleep.
o Assign Function Keys, Alt Keys, Keypad Keys, etc., to:
- Send a string to the modem
- Execute any DOS command
- Start any macro
- Initiate any {COMMO} function.
o Create pop-up menus with "hot keys" to start any macro.
o Edit all macros without exiting {COMMO}, using the Internal
Editor. Macros become effective immediately.
o Call your computer from a remote location using {COMMO}'s
convenient Host Mode, written in {COMMO}'s macro language.
The free-form Dialing Directory has space for hundreds of entries. Multi
Number Dialing is supported from the command line. AutoBaud detect adjusts
to the speed of the connection. A macro may be linked to each directory
entry.
Multi-tasking support. {COMMO} is fully DESQview aware, operates in far
less memory than comparable programs. Also supports OS/2, Windows,
OmniView, DoubleDOS and others.
Swap to disk is optional when shelling to DOS or executing external
programs. The resident program kernel occupies less than 2k of memory.
Built-in ANSI-BBS and VT102 emulation. Supports ANSI editing functions,
scrolling region, 132 column mode, graphics character set, tab set/clear,
printing, modes, reports, etc. Complete auto-switching VT102 keyboard
support via Macro Processor.
ENQ/ACK terminal protocol support.
Built-in file transfer protocols include Ymodem Batch, Ymodem-G Batch,
Xmodem-1k, Xmodem-1k-G and Xmodem. Upload file selection macro.
ASCII Upload to send messages and text files. Features line pacing and
blank line expansion.
-10-
The Setup File, Dialing Directory and Macro File are plain text files and
may be edited with the full-function Internal Editor, or with any external
editor.
Any file up to 64k in size may be edited within {COMMO} using the Internal
Editor.
String search is available in all support file windows.
{COMMO} supports all text display modes, including 132 column screens.
Character Translate Tables for both sending and receiving. Tables can be
modified dynamically via macros.
Split-screen Chat Mode for communicating with another computer which is
also running a terminal program. All program features are available while
in Chat Mode.
Doorway Mode lets you operate remote applications with full use of your
screen and keyboard.
{COMMO}'s Auto Receive feature lets you configure any 16 strings to
automatically trigger any 16 macros. Thus any protocol with a "signature"
can be set to start automatically. Zmodem, HS/Link and MPt are pre-
configured.
Support for any four serial ports. Port addresses and IRQ's are
configurable (including IRQ 8 to 15). Port speeds up to 115,200 bps
(hardware dependent). Automatic support for NS16550A (or AF) buffered UART
chip.
Serial port signal lights may be displayed on the Status Line, including
send and receive. Very useful with internal modems.
Scrollback buffer up to 64k bytes gives instant replay of the text that has
scrolled off the screen.
Capture Log saves all text from the screen to a disk file. Three different
capture modes are available.
Screen Image Save writes the current screen to a disk file.
Print Log writes all text from the screen to the printer.
Usage Log records date, time, length of call and other information about
each call. Date of last call can be saved in the Dialing Directory.
Date and time formats used in logs and displays are configurable for use in
any country.
Support for visually impaired users with {COMMO}'s configurable Speech
Friendly Interface (set SFI=yes in COMMO.SET).
-11-
Support for the enhanced keyboard.
Extensive context-related Online Help.
And {COMMO} is elegant, easy to learn and fun to use!
-12-
========== The Best Way to Learn {COMMO} Quickly
1) Read the section "Getting Started" which will get you up and running.
2) Read Appendix A "Setting Up Your Modem" for some very important
instructions.
3) Read through the section "{COMMO} Key Commands" to familiarize
yourself with {COMMO}'s commands and features.
4) Use Online Help as a reference while you use {COMMO}.
How is it pronounced??? Just like "comma" (,) except for the last letter.
It's technical jargon for "communications."
-13-
========== Getting Started
NOTE: Refer to Appendix G for explanations of any error messages you
receive during your initial use of {COMMO}.
For greater detail, see the next section "Preparing Your System."
-----===== Quick Start Instructions
1) If you have a hard drive, create a subdirectory named "COMMO." Copy
all of the files from the {COMMO} archive or distribution diskette
into this subdirectory.
If your system has only floppy drives, copy the {COMMO} files to a
formatted diskette.
Now change to the {COMMO} subdirectory or log in to the diskette where
you have copied the {COMMO} files.
2) Run the "New User's Guide" by typing "guide" at the DOS prompt.
Follow the instructions carefully. A macro will automatically take
you on a tour of some of {COMMO}'s main features.
When you are in the Setup File you will be in {COMMO}'s Internal
Editor and you may change any part of the file using the arrow keys,
PgUp, PgDn and other editing keys. Press Alt-E for Edit Help to see a
list of editing keys.
You may need to change some of the items to conform to your system
setup. Notice that {COMMO} only looks at the items that are contained
in curly braces: { }. All other text is treated as commentary and is
not used by the program.
Most items will not need to be changed until you are more familiar
with {COMMO}. For now, check the following:
The Default Dialing Parameters in the first item. Make sure you
have the correct port number (the third field). If your modem is
on COM2, change it to "2", COM3 to "3", etc. Using COM2 it would
look like this: {2400,8n1,2,A,0}.
The Modem Initialization String. If you know the commands for
your own modem, make the necessary adjustments. If you don't,
then leave it like it is. Refer to Appendix A for more
information.
The items under "Paths and Files" (page down to see these).
Press [Esc] to save the file and continue the tour.
-14-
3) The next stop is the Dialing Directory. To alter an entry or to add
new ones, just press "E" to enter edit mode. This is the same
Internal Editor you used to modify the Setup File. When you are
finished making changes, press Esc to bring back the Selector Bar.
Then press Esc again to continue.
4) Next you will see a sample menu created by the Macro Processor. Press
Enter to continue and return to the Terminal Screen. Then exit
{COMMO} with the Alt-X command.
5) From the DOS prompt type "commo<cr>" to restart the program. The new
Setup File items will now be in effect.
6) IMPORTANT! {COMMO}'s Auto Receive feature is set up to automatically
start the program DSZ.COM (from Omen Technology) when the remote
system sends a file using the Zmodem protocol.
Do not request a file for downloading with Zmodem until you have this
program installed in a directory that is in your DOS path (or in the
current directory). If "Bad command or filename" is displayed by DOS,
just keep pressing Ctrl-X until it stops. This message means you
haven't installed DSZ properly.
If things happen too quickly to see what is happening, you can use
EXECute Preview Mode, which will allow you see the results of the
command execution. Use Alt-T to toggle Preview Mode on/off.
The same principle applies to any other protocol drivers that you use,
such as HS/Link, MPt, etc. If you don't have any external protocol
drivers installed, use the internal Xmodem or Ymodem protocols.
7) When you see the Status Line at the bottom of the screen, you are in
the Terminal Screen. Now you may press Alt-D to enter the Dialing
Directory. Use the up and down arrow keys to select a system to call
and press Enter. {COMMO} will begin dialing.
8) When a connection is made with a remote system, {COMMO} will return to
the Terminal Screen where you may interact with the remote.
NOTE: If your modem does not seem to operate properly (no connection
is made or the data is garbled), read Appendix A "Setting Up Your
Modem." You may need to change the Modem Initialization String in the
Setup File. If you change it, you will need to exit {COMMO} and
restart the program. Then try dialing again.
-15-
-----===== Preparing Your System
The following sections give startup instructions in greater detail.
Make sure that all of the files from the {COMMO} package are in one
directory or on one diskette. Four of these files are required to run the
{COMMO} program:
COMMO.COM, the Program File
COMMO.SET, the Setup File
COMMO.FON, the Dialing Directory File
COMMO.MAC, the Macro File
In addition, if Online Help is used (recommended):
COMMO.HLP, the Online Help File
There are two ways to make sure that {COMMO} will be able to find all of
its files. The first method is the simplest and should be used if you are
not too familiar with DOS commands:
1) Make sure you are logged into the directory or disk drive where the
files are located. Then simply type "commo" at the DOS prompt. If
your files are in the directory "C:\COMMO" you would type:
c:<cr>
cd \commo<cr>
commo<cr>
(<cr> is the [Enter] or Return key)
Or if the files are on a diskette in drive A you would type:
a:<cr>
commo<cr>
{COMMO} will remember where the files are, so you will be able to
change directory or drive later without concern.
2) The second method is a little more advanced, but allows you to run
{COMMO} no matter what directory or drive you are currently logged
into:
Use the SET command in DOS to store the {COMMO} path into the
"environment." If you place this command in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file
you won't have to change directories or diskettes to run {COMMO}. If
your files are in the directory "C:\COMMO" the command would be:
set commo=c:\commo
If the files are on the diskette in drive B the command would be:
-16-
set commo=b:
Do not use any extra spaces in the SET command. And remember to place
the {COMMO} directory or drive in your PATH command.
IMPORTANT! Be sure to check your "set commo=" command if you install
{COMMO} into a different directory or onto another drive (or if you
install a later release of the program). If it points to the wrong
directory, {COMMO} will not operate properly. This is a common error
and can cause a lot of head scratching.
-----===== Command Line Options
---------- Dialing Strings
Dialing Strings are used to indicate numbers to dial at program startup.
If present, they must be placed before any command line switches. {COMMO}
will search the Dialing Directory for each string and mark the first entry
where a match is found (case is ignored).
The strings may consist of any part of a Dialing Directory entry line
(usually part of the system name) and may be separated by commas or spaces.
The following characters may not appear in a command line Dialing String:
space, comma, slash (/), curly braces.
After entries in the Dialing Directory are marked, {COMMO} will check for a
startup macro (specified on the command line or in the Setup File). If a
startup macro is present, it will be started. Otherwise Multi Number
Dialing of the marked systems will begin.
Examples:
commo telegodzilla joes-bbs 4567
commo zilla,joes,4567
IMPORTANT! The Modem Initialization String will normally be sent before
dialing begins. Your modem should be turned on and ready to receive the
command string before you start {COMMO}.
---------- Switches
Case is ignored and the switches may be in any order (Dialing Strings must
precede all switches, however).
NOTE: Environment variables may also be used to communicate data to
{COMMO} at program startup. See the description of the SETVariable
function in Part II.
-17-
/:label Startup Macro.
This switch can be used to override the "mac=" item in the Setup File.
The "label" is a one to eight character macro label. If the label is
found in the Macro File, macro processing will be started. If the
label is not found the switch will be ignored.
/sfilename Alternate Setup File.
/dfilename Alternate Dialing Directory File.
/mfilename Alternate Macro File
/hfilename Alternate Online Help File.
Only the filename should be specified. The {COMMO} home directory
will be assumed for the path.
If an alternate Macro File is specified, it will become the default
Macro File. This means it will be reloaded when the "R" switch is
used with the MACLoad macro function.
/knn Scrollback Buffer size.
This switch will override the "sbs=" item in the Setup File. "nn" is
kilobytes and may be 0 to 64.
/vnnnnn Size of String Variable Space.
The size of String Variable Space can be adjusted from 512 bytes to
65535 bytes. The default is 3072 bytes.
/iy or /in Modem Initialization override.
Forces the Modem Initialization String to be sent ("/iy") or not sent
("/in"). This will override the "min=" item in the Setup File.
/{parms} Default Dialing Parameters
Any or all parameters may be specified. Included parameters will
override those in the "ddp=" item in the Setup File.
Example:
commo joes zilla /:mailrun /dother.dir /k25 /v2000 /in
o Two systems will be marked in the Dialing Directory.
o The macro "mailrun" will be started if it exists in the Macro
File.
o The alternate Dialing Directory "other.dir" will be loaded.
o The Scrollback Buffer will be set to 25k in size.
-18-
o The size of String Variable Space is set to 2000 bytes.
o The Modem Initialization String will not be sent.
-----===== {COMMO} Support Files
The {COMMO} files are standard ASCII text files and may be modified with
any editor (or word processor in "non-document" mode). From within {COMMO}
they may be edited with {COMMO}'s Internal Editor.
The only control characters (below ASCII 28) allowed in the support files
are CR/LF pairs and an EOF at the end. {COMMO}'s Internal Editor adheres
to this rule. Control characters may be represented as shown in Appendix
D. For example, an ASCII 16 would be written as ^P.
Key definitions for the Internal Editor are given in Online Help. A Color
Chart will be displayed in the editor when F7 is pressed (useful in the
Setup File and for the DISPlay function in the Macro File).
NOTE: {COMMO} generally retains the Dialing Directory and Macro File in
memory during program operation. If you use an external editor to modify
them while in the Shell to DOS (or using the EXEC macro function), your
changes could be lost. See "Saving the Support Files" below.
Following is a brief description of each file.
1) COMMO.SET. The Setup File contains settings for many important
parameters. The first time you run {COMMO} you should use the Alt-G
key command to edit this file to your own needs. See "Alt-G Edit
Setup File" for details on each item.
2) COMMO.FON. The Dialing Directory File. This file contains
information about each system that you will be calling, including the
telephone number, password, Linked Macro and Terminal Parameter
overrides. Use the Alt-D key command to dial numbers and to edit this
file. Details are given in the section "Alt-D Dialing Directory."
3) COMMO.MAC. The Macro File. Use the Alt-M key command to select a
macro for execution and to edit this file. A complete description of
{COMMO} macros is given in Part II. A summary of macro functions and
key designators is also given in Online Help.
4) COMMO.HLP. The Online Help File. This file contains the information
for {COMMO}'s context-related Online Help. See "How to Use Online
Help" later in this document.
-19-
---------- Saving the Support Files
Whenever a change is made to any file, the internal change flag is set for
that file (indicated by an "*" next to the column number in the Internal
Editor).
The Dialing Directory and/or Macro File will be saved automatically when
you exit {COMMO} (if the change flag is set). The Setup File and other
files that you may edit will be saved when you press Esc to exit the
editor.
You may press Alt-F in the Internal Editor to immediately save any file.
If you do not wish to save your changes to the Dialing Directory or Macro
File, you may press Alt-Q while in the Internal Editor. This will reset
{COMMO}'s change flag and the file will not be saved when exiting the
program. Any subsequent changes to the file will set the change flag
again. Pressing Alt-Q while editing other files will simply cancel the
edit.
-----===== Initialization Procedure
When {COMMO} begins running it will read and process the Setup File,
COMMO.SET. Then it will attempt to load into memory:
1) COMMO.FON, the Dialing Directory
2) COMMO.MAC, the Macro File
Any problems encountered will be reported. These problems must be
corrected before restarting the program.
Automatic modem initialization will occur if requested in the Setup File
with {min=yes}, or by the "/iy" command line switch. Use the "/in" switch
to suppress modem initialization if you are already on line.
Please note that {COMMO} does NOT change the video display mode. Instead
{COMMO} can adapt to any text mode that is set when the program is started.
Check the items under "Video and Chat Mode" in the Setup File for details.
See also the section "[Alt-G] Edit Setup File" later in this document.
If the display does not look right try executing the DOS command "mode
co80" or "mode bw80" prior to calling {COMMO}.
-20-
-----===== Terminal Screen
The Terminal Screen allows you to see the characters coming in from the
serial port. Any characters that you type will be sent out to the serial
port. If you are connected to another system you will be interacting with
that system.
Keep in mind that you will also be interacting with {COMMO} and with your
own computer via key commands (Alt keys, for example). These key commands
have no effect on the remote system unless they cause characters to be sent
to the serial port (pressing Alt-W to send your password, for example).
-21-
========== {COMMO} Key Commands
The Alt Keys shown in this section are the built-in default key assignments
for the various {COMMO} commands. Once you are familiar with these
commands you may use the Macro Processor to reassign any of the keys.
Keys used within the various command windows are properly detailed in
Online Help. Please press F1 from any command window to invoke {COMMO}'s
context-related help system.
Note that certain features are only available as macro functions. Refer to
Part II for details.
-----===== [Alt-A] ASCII Upload
This command is used to send prepared messages or any text files to the
remote system. Enter the pathname of the file you wish to send. Note that
the input field will be blank unless a macro is used to prompt with a path.
The macro supplied in COMMO.MAC is:
{:ala} {ascii %uldir\} {} ASCII Upload with path
Notice the "\" following the path variable. It tells {COMMO} to prompt for
the filename. If you needed to specify a colon for pacing (see below) you
could change this to:
{:ala} {ascii %uldir\,:} {} ASCII Upload with path
There is no special error checking associated with ASCII Upload. It is
intended primarily for sending message responses and other short text
files. For longer files, binary files or compressed files (.ARC, .ZIP) you
will want to use error checking protocols such as Xmodem, Zmodem, MPt, etc.
See "Uploading / Downloading."
A number of parameters are used to control an ASCII Upload:
---------- Line Pacing
IMPORTANT! Line Pacing is used to keep transmitted data synchronized with
received (echoed) data and is normally used ONLY when the remote is sending
a prompt for each line, usually "nn:" or "nn?". "nn" is a line number and
":" or "?" is the prompt or "pacing character."
{COMMO} will wait up to 5 seconds for the pacing character, then send the
next line. If there is a 5 second delay between the sending of each line,
then either you have the wrong pacing character or you don't need line
pacing (you don't need it when using a full-screen editor, for example).
-22-
At any time, the Spacebar may be pressed to force transmission of the next
line. This is very useful when you have set the wrong pacing character or
if you wish to send each line manually. In the latter case, use any pacing
character that is different from the one in the line prompt.
To use line pacing, enter the pacing character when {COMMO} asks for it in
the ASCII Upload window. NOTE: The receive Translate Table can affect the
pacing character if receive translation is ON.
The initial pacing character is configurable. See "[Alt-G] Edit Setup
File."
The pacing character may be any character including control characters,
e.g. "^m" or "|" for carriage return. See Appendix D for details on how to
represent special characters.
See also Appendix C "Flow Control."
---------- Character Pacing
You may insert a delay between each character using the Inter-Character
Delay feature. This should only be used when the remote is so slow that it
drops characters. See "Set Terminal Parameters" for details.
---------- Stripping Linefeeds
Normally you will want to strip linefeeds from your outgoing text. This
will appear to the remote as if you are typing the data. But if all your
data displays on the same line at the remote, then you must configure
{COMMO} to send the linefeeds.
NOTE: This item is initialized in the Setup File.
---------- Expanding Blank Lines
You may configure {COMMO} to send a space character whenever a blank line
is encountered in the text file you are sending. This will prevent your
message from terminating prematurely if you are sending to a BBS message
editor. Blank line expansion is not normally required when sending to a
"full screen" BBS editor.
NOTE: This item is initialized in the Setup File.
-23-
-----===== [Alt-B] Send Break Signal
A one second Break Signal will be sent. This signal is used by some
systems to interrupt certain operations. Use it only when the remote
system directs you to do so.
NOTE: The duration of the Break Signal may be varied using the BREAk macro
function. See Part II for details.
-----===== [Alt-C] Clear Screen
The Terminal Screen will be cleared and the current colors will be set to
the Setup File defaults.
-----===== [Alt-D] Dialing Directory
The Dialing Directory is your data base of telephone numbers. From the
directory window you can select numbers to dial and also update the
directory using the Internal Editor.
Refer to Online Help for a complete description of the commands available
in the Dialing Directory window.
---------- Dialing Directory Entry Example
File City BBS 07/24/93 {555-1234} {pword} {fcbbs} {}
[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]
where:
1. The System Name
2. Date Last Called
3. Telephone number
4. Password for this system
5. Linked Macro
6. Terminal Parameters
NOTE: Any number of Variable Items may be added following the Terminal
Parameters item (see below).
IMPORTANT! Items in curly braces must be present (they are positional).
Items which are not used must have a null string {} as a placeholder. You
may omit null strings at the end of the line.
-24-
Directory entries are limited to one per line. Lines may be up to 255
characters in length. {COMMO}'s Internal Editor will scroll horizontally
to follow the cursor.
Comments may be placed anywhere outside the curly braces or on separate
lines.
---------- System Name: File City BBS
Up to 40 characters in length, it must NOT be enclosed in curly
braces. The System Name will be displayed on the Status Line after
connection, unless the Signal Lights option is selected. It will also
be part of a Usage Log entry if the log is enabled.
---------- Last Called: 07/24/93
If this item is present, {COMMO} will replace it with the current date
whenever a connection is made with the system. It may appear anywhere
on the entry line. Place "00/00/00" to start it.
---------- Telephone Number: {1-707-555-1234}
The Dialing Prefix, Telephone Number and Dialing Suffix are strung
together to form a dialing command (may be up to 128 characters
total). Spaces and hyphens are ignored by most modems (your modem
manual has more detailed information on dialing commands).
Normally the default Dialing Prefix (usually "ATDT") and the default
Dialing Suffix (usually "|") will be used. These are specified in the
Setup File. You may also have any number of alternate prefixes and
suffixes by defining them with SET items in the Setup File.
For example, suppose that you need to turn off modem error- correction
when calling certain numbers. The command to do this varies from
modem to modem, but let's assume the command is "\N0". Then the
Dialing Prefix you would use for those entries should be "AT \N0 DT"
(spaces optional) and you would put this item in your Setup File:
{set no_ec,AT \N0 DT} Prefix to turn off EC
The directory entry would be as follows:
File City {%no_ec%555-1234} {pword} {city} {}
The prefix "no_ec" will override the default prefix if it is at the
very beginning of the telephone number field (immediately following
the left curly brace). Similarly, an override suffix may be specified
-25-
if it is at the very end of the field (immediately preceding the right
curly brace).
Notice that these are variable names and must be bracketed between "%"
characters. Variables may be placed anywhere else within the number
field as well, but they will not override the default prefix or suffix
unless they are at the very beginning or very end, respectively
(insert a space if you want the default AND the variable).
You may use variables defined with SET items in the Setup File or
variables set within macros.
IMPORTANT! The tilde (~) will not work as a delay in the dialing
command. This is because the modem does not start dialing until it
receives a carriage return (the Default Suffix). Therefore you must
use the modem's own delay character, which is usually a comma (,).
For example, use the following prefix to disable Call Waiting (with
most tone systems):
{set _dialpf,ATDT *70,} Default Dialing Prefix
This will cause {COMMO} to send "*70" and then delay two seconds
before sending the telephone number.
NOTE: If you "dial" an entry in the directory and the telephone
number field is NULL (no characters between the left and right curly
braces), then {COMMO} will act exactly as if a connection had been
made -- WITHOUT actually dialing. The password and any variables will
be defined and the Linked Macro will be started. This is useful when
you want to "call" a host that is on a "direct connection."
---------- System Password: {mypassword}
A different Password String may be defined for each system that you
call. Passwords may be up to 64 characters in length.
The Password String may be sent by pressing Alt-W or by using the
variable "_pas" in a SEND macro function.
Passwords are invisible in the Dialing Directory window, but appear
when you enter [E]dit mode.
Rules for writing passwords are in Appendix D.
-26-
---------- Linked Macro: {fcbbs}
If a valid Linked Macro is specified, it will be started when a
connection is established with the remote system. If no macro is
specified (or the macro label is not found), {COMMO} will enter the
Terminal Screen.
---------- Terminal Parameters: {}
This item allows you to override any or all of the Default Dialing
Parameters for the current call.
The Dialing Default Parameters are initialized with the "ddp=" item in
the Setup File and may be changed during a session with the Alt-P key
command (press F2) or with the DPARms macro function.
Prior to dialing each number, {COMMO} will set all current Terminal
Parameters to the Dialing Defaults. Then it will set any overrides
specified in this item.
The general form of this item is:
{speed,format,comport,terminal-type,delay}
For example, you might have:
{,7,,V}
which would set the Data Format to "7e1" and the Terminal-type to
VT102, but would use the Dialing Defaults for the other parameters.
See "Set Terminal Parameters" for a complete description of each
field. See also "AutoBaud Detect."
---------- Variable Items: {name,string}
Any number of Variable Items may be included in a directory entry and
will be set just prior to dialing. The "string" may not contain any
variables. The first Variable Item must follow the Terminal
Parameters item (all other items must be present as placeholders even
if some are null). Example (must be on a single line):
Joes-BBS 07/24/93 {555-1234} {pword} {mac} {}
{bbsid,joesbbs} ...
See also "[Alt-N] Multi Number Dialing."
-27-
-----===== [Alt-G] Edit Setup File
Pressing Alt-G allows you to edit the Setup File, COMMO.SET (see "Internal
Editor" in Online Help for details on editing). The Setup File contains
initial settings for many parameters used by {COMMO}.
Items changed with the editor are not effective until the next time you
start the program. However, most items may be changed with key commands
and/or macro functions while the program is running.
Each item in the Setup File is enclosed in curly braces. Items are
designated with three letter "keywords" and may be present in any order.
There are no "required" items. Most missing items will take on the default
values shown in the examples below (AUT items and SET items have no default
values).
All text outside the curly braces is commentary and is ignored by {COMMO}.
Avoid using curly braces other than to bracket setup items.
---------- Predefining Variables with SET
SET items predefine variables in {COMMO}'s String Variable Space. The
general form of a SET item is:
{set name,string}
name
Any valid variable name.
string
A text string to assign to the name. The string may not
contain any variables.
Any number of SET items may appear in the Setup File. They may be used
later in macros, in telephone numbers, etc.
See Part II for more information on variables.
-28-
---------- Explanation of Setup File Items
__________________________________________________
{ddp=2400,8n1,1,A,0}
Default Dialing Parameters, set when you dial:
(speed,format,port,terminal,delay).
These are also the current settings when you
start the program.
__________________________________________________
IMPORTANT! Users with 9600 bps or 14400 bps modems should set the
port speed to 38400 or 57600 respectively.
The values in this item will be used as the current settings when
{COMMO} is started and each time dialing begins. Use the "Terminal
Parameters" item in the Dialing Directory to set overrides when
required. Use Alt-P or the macro function DPARms to change dialing
parameters at other times.
See "Set Terminal Parameters" for a complete description of each field
and how to change current parameters as well.
NOTE: PCjr users without the internal modem should specify Com2.
___________________________________________
{min=yes} Send Modem Init String (yes/no)
___________________________________________
If "yes" this will instruct {COMMO} to send the Modem Initialization
String at program startup. You can override this item with the "/iy"
or "/in" command line switch.
______________________________________________________
{set _modini,~~AT S0=0 S7=180 E0 Q0 V1 X4 &C1 &D2 |~~}
Modem Init String (2400 bps and higher)
______________________________________________________
This item defines the reserved variable "_modini" (notice that the
string itself begins following the comma).
The Modem Initialization String is normally sent to your modem when
{COMMO} is started or when you press Alt-O.
If you are using a 1200 bps modem you should remove the "&C1 &D2"
commands. In either case the "X" command may have to be adjusted.
See Appendix A "Setting Up Your Modem."
-29-
______________________________________________
{set z_prog,DSZC}
Zmodem driver program (DSZC/DSZE/GSZ/TXZM)
______________________________________________
This variable is used in macros that require a Zmodem protocol driver
program. Just enter one of the four choices shown and the macros
(including the MOSTHOST) will use the appropriate driver. You must
have the program file in your DOS path as follows:
DSZC DSZ.COM
DSZE DSZ.EXE
GSZ GSZ.EXE
TXZM TXZM.EXE
_________________________________________________
{sfc=yes}
Software (XON/XOFF) Flow Control (yes/no)
{hfc=auto}
Hardware (RTS/CTS) Flow Control (auto/yes/no)
_________________________________________________
These are used to control the flow of data between your computer and
the remote system. They prevent loss of data when one end can send
faster than the other end can process the information.
The "auto" setting for Hardware Flow Control should be used in most
cases. {COMMO} will enable/disable Hardware Flow Control based on the
state of the CTS (Clear To Send) signal. The other settings should
not be used unless you have an unusual hardware configuration.
See Appendix C for more information on flow control.
_____________________________________________________
{sld=no} Stop serial input during disk I/O (yes/no)
_____________________________________________________
This should be set to "yes" if your system drops characters when a
disk (hard or floppy) is accessed. The symptoms are missing
characters in the Terminal Screen when capture is on or excessive
CRC/csum errors during internal protocol file transfers.
This is equivalent to what some programs call "handshake slow." In
{COMMO} it works in conjunction with Hardware Flow Control (RTS/CTS),
so both {COMMO} and your modem must have Hardware Flow Control
engaged.
If you use an external protocol driver be sure to set the "handshake
slow" parameter in that program as well.
-30-
____________________________________________
{dex=no} Drop DTR and RTS on exit (yes/no)
____________________________________________
Leave this "no" if you want to exit {COMMO} and return while still
connected to a host. "Yes" will normally cause the modem to hang up
when exiting.
_______________________________________
{enq=no} Answer ENQ with ACK (yes/no)
_______________________________________
Some hosts send an ENQ control character (^E) periodically and require
that the terminal "answer back" with an ACK (^F). Set this item to
"yes" only if your host requires this.
______________________________________________
{ncr=} Macro to execute when carrier is lost
______________________________________________
Specify a macro label here and {COMMO} will execute the macro when
carrier detect is lost. Example:
{ncr=carrlost}
IMPORTANT! This feature is enabled only when a connection is made
using {COMMO}'s Auto Dialer. Also, if carrier drops while a macro is
running or a command window is open (such as the Dialing Directory or
Capture File Options), the carrier lost macro will not activate.
Be sure that you have your modem configured to provide the carrier
detect signal. See Appendix A for modem information.
____________________________________________
{aut=pzbr,^xB00} Auto Receive, Zmodem
{aut=phbr,HS*^bR} Auto Receive, HS/Link
{aut=phbr,HS*^bQ} Auto Receive, HS/Link
{aut=pmpr,^v^h^vMPt} Auto Receive, MPt
____________________________________________
The general form for this item is: {aut=label,string}. When the
specified string (up to 32 characters, case ignored) is received, the
macro will be started.
These are normally used for automatically starting downloads, but may
be used to trigger any macro upon receiving any string.
Up to 16 Auto Receive Strings may be specified. Operates in Terminal
Mode only (use SSLOok/CALOok/GOLOok/LOOKfor in macros).
-31-
See the section "{COMMO} Auto Receive" for more details.
_______________________________________________
{rtr=} Receive Translate Table initialization
{str=} Send Translate Table initialization
_______________________________________________
These items are used to place values into the character translation
tables at program startup and, if desired, to turn translation ON.
Multiple receive or send items may be present.
Character translation is used when you wish certain characters to be
changed into other characters as they are received from, or as they
are sent to, the remote system. You may also cause received
characters to be ignored.
Examples:
{rtr=y,7,0,36,156}
Turn ON receive translation ("y").
Change the bell character (ASCII 7) to null (ASCII 0, which
will not display).
Change the "$" (ASCII 36) to ASCII 156.
{str=#26,97,65,42,43,#10,48,128}
Change 26 consecutive values starting at 97 to consecutive
values starting at 65. This will change all lowercase
letters (ASCII 97 to 122) to uppercase letters (ASCII 65 to
90).
Change the "*" (ASCII 42) to a "+" (ASCII 43).
Change 10 consecutive values starting at 48 to consecutive
values starting at 128. This will change the digits 0
through 9 (ASCII 48 to 57) to ASCII 128 to 137.
The ON/OFF state of send translation will not be changed (no
"y" or "n" is present).
A "y", to turn translation ON, must be the first argument, if present.
It may be used on any "rtr" or "str" item and will apply to all 256
values in either the receive table or the send table. Note that
translation defaults to OFF when {COMMO} is started.
Use a PAIR of arguments to change a single value.
-32-
Use THREE arguments to change a range of consecutive values to another
range of consecutive values. The "#" operator on the first argument
specifies the number of values to change, followed by the starting
values for each range.
The macro functions RTRAn and STRAn have similar argument lists. In
addition they allow you to restore each Translate Table to default
values and to turn translation ON and OFF without disturbing the
values in the tables. See Part II for more details.
_____________________________________
{com=1,3f8,4} Com1 port address/IRQ
{com=2,2f8,3} Com2 port address/IRQ
{com=3,3e8,4} Com3 port address/IRQ
{com=4,2e8,3} Com4 port address/IRQ
_____________________________________
These are the hardware serial port base address and IRQ assignments.
The settings shown are the most common, but some serial adapters are
different. The serial adapter manual may give a range of addresses,
for example "3f8-3ff." Use the first value as the base address.
Port addresses are in hexadecimal and may range from 0 to ffff. IRQ
numbers are decimal and may range from 0 to 15 (avoid use of IRQ
numbers that are used by system hardware, e.g., 0, 1, 8, etc.). IRQ
numbers from 8 to 15 are available only on AT class machines.
The current serial port base address and IRQ number are available to
macros in the built-in variables "_pad" and "_irq" respectively.
______________________________________
{abd=no} AutoBaud Detect on (yes/no)
______________________________________
AutoBaud Detect enables {COMMO} to automatically adjust to the line
speed of the system you are calling.
IMPORTANT! This is normally set to "yes" ONLY for non-error-
correcting 2400 bps modems. It should be set to "no" for all other
modems.
To use AutoBaud Detect, set your modem to return the connection speed
responses such as "CONNECT 1200" (see Appendix A "Setting Up Your
Modem"). The Default Dialing Speed {ddp=...} should be set to your
modem's highest speed.
-33-
___________________________________________________
{cdm=yes} Clear dialing marks at startup (yes/no)
___________________________________________________
If this is "yes", {COMMO} will clear all dialing marks in the Dialing
Directory when you start the program. Set it to "no" if you want to
retain dialing marks from the previous session. Note that the marks
are normally saved with the Dialing Directory file whenever it is
written to disk.
____________________________________________
{set _dialpf,ATDT } Default Dialing Prefix
{set _dialsf, |} Default Dialing Suffix
____________________________________________
These reserved variables define strings that will be used to create
the modem dialing command. The prefix, telephone number and suffix
will be strung together in that order and sent to your modem when you
dial.
Any number of additional prefixes and suffixes may be used by
including variables in the telephone number string (see "[Alt-D]
Dialing Directory" for details).
Use "ATDP" if you don't have a tone line. Use "ATDT9," to get an
outside line on a switchboard. The suffix is usually just a carriage
return (|). Your modem manual has additional tips on dialing prefixes
and suffixes.
___________________________________________
{dct=45} Dialing cycle time-out (seconds)
___________________________________________
The maximum time to wait before hanging up and redialing. Adjust if
your modem needs more time to complete a call.
__________________________________________________
{idt=2} Delay between dialing attempts (seconds)
__________________________________________________
Amount of time to wait between dialing attempts. Adjust to give
incoming calls a greater chance of getting through.
-34-
_________________________________________
{set _dialsr,CONNECT}
Dialing success response(s)
{set _dialfr,BUSY,NO CARRIER,NO DIALTONE}
Dialing failure response(s)
{set _dialir,RING}
Inter-dial response(s)
_________________________________________
These reserved variables each define a list of response strings that
are returned by your modem during dialing operations. Most "Hayes
compatible" modems use similar responses, but there may be subtle
differences. Consult your modem manual for details.
"Success" responses are received when the modem has connected with a
remote modem. "Failure" responses occur when the number being called
is busy, doesn't answer or when something is wrong with the telephone
line. {COMMO} will automatically redial the number after a failed
attempt.
Inter-dial Delay responses may occur during the delay between dialing
attempts, usually when someone is trying to call you. These may be
handled by using the Inter-dial Delay macro label in the DIAL macro
function. See Part II for details.
Some modems use a CARRIER response to indicate the modem speed, e.g.
CARRIER 2400. In this case using CARRIER instead of CONNECT will
improve the accuracy of the Usage Log. In order to avoid confusion
with a NO CARRIER response, you should use:
{set _dialsr,CARRIER }
Notice the space after "CARRIER." Do not include the speed in the
CONNECT or CARRIER response if you are enabling AutoBaud.
Responses are case sensitive and there should be no null strings or
extra spaces.
___________________________________________
{set uldir,c:\commo}
Path to find uploads (no "\" at end)
{set dldir,c:\commo}
Path to place downloads (no "\" at end)
___________________________________________
These variables are used in some of the macros in COMMO.MAC and
SAMPLES.MAC, primarily in the Uploading and Downloading macros. They
are not reserved variables, so you may change their names.
-35-
_________________________________________________________
{set _uselog,c:\commo\commo.log} Pathname for Usage Log
_________________________________________________________
This is a reserved variable that tells {COMMO} where to find your
Usage Log. The Usage Log keeps a record of the calls you make. If a
valid pathname is specified, entries will be made when:
1) You connect to a system.
2) You transfer a file using an internal protocol.
3) You disconnect (or exit {COMMO}).
4) The macro function OFFLog executes.
IMPORTANT! In order for the log to function properly your modem must
be set to provide "true carrier detect" (see Appendix A). The macro
function OFFLog is provided for situations where this is not possible.
Use a null pathname or remove this item to disable the Usage Log. A
null pathname would look like this:
{set _uselog}
The Usage Log should be disabled when you are connecting directly to
another computer (with a null modem cable).
Specify the same log file as your external protocol driver (e.g.,
DSZ.LOG or MPT.LOG) and you will have a complete record of your calls,
including upload/download statistics.
If a filename only (no path) is specified, the current directory will
be used. The pathname of an open Capture File is not allowed.
See also Appendix F "Usage Log Format."
____________________________________________________
{cap=c:\commo\commo.cap} Pathname for Capture File
____________________________________________________
This is the initial setting for the Capture File pathname. It may be
changed later with the Alt-1 key command or with the CAPTure macro
function (do not try to change the "_cap" built-in variable with
SETV).
If a filename only (no path) is specified, the current directory will
be used.
See also "Capture File Options."
-36-
_________________________________________________________
{scr=c:\commo\commo.scr} Pathname for Screen Image File
_________________________________________________________
This is the initial setting for the Screen Image File pathname. It
may be changed later with the Alt-I key command, with the SCREen macro
function, or from within the Scrollback Buffer window (do not try to
change the "_scr" built-in variable with SETV).
If a filename only (no path) is specified, the current directory will
be used. The pathname of an open Capture File is not allowed.
See also "Screen Image Save" and "Scrollback"
_______________________________________
{swp=} Pathname for Swap to Disk File
_______________________________________
You can free up most of the memory occupied by {COMMO} when you use
the Shell to DOS key command or the EXECute macro function. The file
specified in this item will be used to save the program and data
during a Swap to Disk.
IMPORTANT! You must also specify the "S" switch on any EXECute or
SHELl macro functions where swapping is desired.
A unique filename not likely to be used by other applications should
be specified. For example:
{swp=c:\commo\swap$$$.1}
NOTE: If the file already exists, {COMMO} will attempt to modify the
name by changing the last character to an "A", then to a "B", etc.
Before using this feature, read the sections covering EXECute and
SHELl in Part II.
_____________________________________________
{ebl=yes} Expand blank lines (yes/no)
{slf=yes} Strip outgoing linefeeds (yes/no)
{pac=} ASCII Upload pacing character
_____________________________________________
These items are used with the ASCII Upload feature.
Blank line expansion sends a space and a carriage return, instead of
just a carriage return for lines with no data. This prevents BBS line
editors from terminating prematurely.
-37-
Stripping linefeeds gives the data the appearance of being entered
manually. Linefeeds should not be stripped when the remote is not in
"edit" mode.
The pacing character shown is null (no pacing). To use a ":" for
pacing, change the item to
{pac=:}
See "ASCII Upload" for more details.
____________________________
{mac=} Startup macro label
____________________________
This item indicates a macro to run when {COMMO} starts up. The
command line switch "/:" can be used to override it. See "Command
Line Options."
Example: {mac=begin}.
___________________________________________
{edd=no} Enter Dialing Directory (yes/no)
___________________________________________
If this is set to "yes" the Dialing Directory will be entered when
{COMMO} is started (if no Dialing Strings or Startup Macro are present
on the command line).
_________________________________
{loc=no} Local Echo on (yes/no)
_________________________________
If this is set to "yes" Local Echo will be on when {COMMO} is started.
See also "Alt-T Set Toggles."
___________________________________
{sts=yes} Status Line on (yes/no)
___________________________________
If this is set to "yes" the Status Line will be on when {COMMO} is
started.
-38-
____________________________________
{sig=no} Signal Lights on (yes/no)
____________________________________
If this is set to "yes" Signal Lights will be on when {COMMO} is
started.
_____________________________________
{cpf=no} Capture File open (yes/no)
_____________________________________
If this is set to "yes" Capture will be open when {COMMO} is started.
See "Capture File Options."
_______________________________________________
{cpm=screen} Capture Mode (screen/filter/raw)
_______________________________________________
See "Capture File Options" for a description of each mode.
_______________________________________________
{tek=yes} Test for enhanced keyboard (yes/no)
_______________________________________________
Set this to "no" only if your system (BIOS) does not support the
enhanced (101 key) keyboard. Appendix H "Table of {COMMO} Key-labels"
has a list of all assignable keys.
_________________________________________________________
{tsn=yes} Display time of day with System Name (yes/no)
_________________________________________________________
If this is "yes" the time of day will be displayed on the right side
of the Status Line. Set this to "no" if you want the System Name
given more space. Note that the time is always shown when the Signal
Lights are displayed.
___________________________________________________
{dat=mdy}
Order of date parameters (m=month,d=day,y=year)
___________________________________________________
This item allows you to specify any order for the three date
parameters. The default shown would display May 20, 1992 as 05/20/92.
"ymd" would display as 92/05/20.
-39-
This format will appear in the Date Last Called field of the Dialing
Directory, the Usage Log and the built-in variable "_dat".
___________________________________
{tim=12} Time format (12/24 hour)
___________________________________
You can specify 12 or 24 hour time format. 12 hour will add "am" or
"pm" as in "2:30 pm". 24 hour would show the same time as "14:30".
The time format appears on the Status Line, in the Usage Log and in
the built-in variable "_tim".
____________________________________
{snd=yes} Master Sound on (yes/no)
____________________________________
If this is set to "yes" sound will be on when {COMMO} is started. If
"no" all sounds will be silenced.
_____________________________________________
{dca=yes} Dialing connection alarm (yes/no)
_____________________________________________
Controls the alarm that signals a connection when Auto Dialing is
used. The alarm will not be sounded when a valid Linked Macro is
specified in the Dialing Directory.
________________________________________________
{afa=yes} ASCII Upload finished alarm (yes/no)
________________________________________________
Controls the alarm that signals completion of an ASCII Upload.
___________________________________________________
{ers=yes} Make sounds on errors/warnings (yes/no)
___________________________________________________
This controls the special sounds made for certain errors and warning
messages.
_______________________________________________
{rng=3} Maximum number of alarm rings (1-999)
_______________________________________________
Sets the number of times the alarm will ring. You may press a key at
any time to stop the alarm.
-40-
_____________________________________________
{sfi=no} Speech Friendly Interface (yes/no)
_____________________________________________
If this is "yes" {COMMO} will be much friendlier to users with speech
synthesizer boards (these enable blind users to read the computer
display). Major differences are:
o Terminal Screen data and many error and information messages will
be displayed using the BIOS.
o The up and down arrow keys move the cursor instead of scrolling
the screen in windows such as Online Help, Scrollback and View
String Variable Space.
o In the Dialing Directory window, {COMMO} will make distinctive
sounds when entries are marked or unmarked for dialing. The [T]
and [R] keys will mark and unmark entries without moving the
Selector Bar. If the entry is already in the desired state, a
special sound will be made.
_____________________________________________________
{sbs=10} Scrollback buffer size in kilobytes (0-64)
_____________________________________________________
The actual minimum size of the buffer (which {COMMO} will compute)
depends on the number of screen lines and columns. For a 25x80 screen
it will be about 4k bytes -- it will be larger for screens with more
lines and/or columns. This includes room to save the current screen.
Setting the size to 0 disables the Scrollback feature. See also
"Scrollback."
___________________________________________________
{adn=yes}
Auto-detect number of rows and columns (yes/no)
___________________________________________________
{COMMO} will support 25 to 127 rows and 80 to 255 columns on the
display, but you MUST set the display into the proper mode before
starting the program (EGA/VGA adapters usually come with utilities to
set modes such as 50x80, 44x132, etc.).
Set this item to "yes" if you want {COMMO} to automatically obtain the
current number of rows and columns from the system. Most systems
provide this information. If the display is unsatisfactory, you may
have to set it to "no."
-41-
NOTE: The cursor may not display properly in 43 line mode. This is a
problem with some EGA adapters.
______________________________________________
{avm=} Alternate video mode (mode,rows,cols)
______________________________________________
You can toggle between two hardware video modes (text modes only) if
this item is defined. One important application for this is the 132
column feature in VT102 emulation . It can also be used to toggle
between any two different video modes using the VIDEo macro function.
The "normal" video mode is the mode that is in effect when {COMMO} is
started. That mode will always be restored automatically when you
exit the program (but not when you Shell to DOS or use the EXECute
macro function).
The mode field must be expressed as a hexadecimal number, while the
rows and columns are decimal numbers (minimum dimensions are 25x80).
As an example, suppose that your video adapter uses mode 23h
(hexadecimal) to support a 25x132 screen. Then you would write this
item as:
{avm=23,25,132} Alternate video mode
Note that some "modes" are not hardware modes and cannot be toggled
using this feature. These include the 50 line mode supported by VGA
adapters or the 43 line mode supported by EGA adapters. Consult your
video adapter manual for a list of hardware modes supported (or
contact the manufacturer).
__________________________________________________
{edi=yes} Startup editor in insert mode (yes/no)
__________________________________________________
Set this to "yes" if you want insert mode turned on the first time you
start the Internal Editor. This also applies to the input field
editor.
____________________________________________________
{ucw=18} Number of lines in upper Chat Mode window
____________________________________________________
This allows you to adjust the line "split" in Chat Mode. The minimum
number of lines in the upper or lower window is three.
-42-
____________________________________________________
{swe=no}
Send when Enter is pressed in Chat Mode (yes/no)
____________________________________________________
If "no" {COMMO} will send each character as you type it. If "yes"
{COMMO} will wait until you press Enter, then send all that you have
typed.
___________________________________________________
{bsc=no}
Use BIOS for Terminal Screen scrolling (yes/no)
{sno=no}
Snow checking on CGA adapter (yes/no)
___________________________________________________
Change these video parameters only if necessary.
o BIOS scrolling enables external scrollback programs to work, but
is slower and may cause "flicker" in certain displays.
o Snow checking will also slow the display, but will help to
eliminate the "snow" effect on CGA monitors.
___________________________________
{gdc=} Graphic display characters
___________________________________
This item allows you to specify the graphic characters used by {COMMO}
to form the various display windows and is provided for compatibility
with display adapters used in certain countries.
When using this item, eleven ASCII character codes may be listed
(omitted fields will revert to the defaults). Codes are specified as
decimal numbers from 1 to 255 (0, 10 and 13 are not allowed).
As an example, here is how the default characters would be listed:
{gdc=213,184,212,190,205,179,185,204,176,250,177}
where:
213 = upper left box corner
184 = upper right box corner
212 = lower left box corner
190 = lower right box corner
205 = horizontal line
179 = vertical line
185 = left side of box title
204 = right side of box title
-43-
176 = file window title fill
250 = input fill and password hiding
177 = Online Help separator bar
_________________________________________
{clm=auto} Color Mode (auto/color/mono)
_________________________________________
If this item is set to "auto," {COMMO} will auto detect the display
type and use the proper mode. The default modes are "color" for color
displays and "mono" for monochrome displays.
If you have a laptop with a black and white LCD display (VGA, EGA or
CGA compatible), you can use the "mono" mode to improve the contrast
(color items below are ignored).
Setting the mode to "color" will force the use of the
colors/attributes in the items below. This is useful if you have a
monochrome display and you prefer to set your own attributes.
Press F7 while editing the Setup File (or other files) to pop up the
color chart. You may use it with color or monochrome displays. Color
settings have no effect when the Color Mode is "mono" (or "auto" with
a monochrome display).
NOTE: Terminal Screen colors/attributes may still be changed if ANSI
display data is received from the host. It may be necessary to adjust
your settings at the host.
_________________________________________________
{kts=07,17} Terminal Screen, Status Line colors
_________________________________________________
For the most accurate ANSI-BBS or VT102 terminal emulation, the
Terminal Screen colors should be set to 07. In many cases, {COMMO}
uses this color when clearing portions of the screen or when a "reset
attributes" sequence is received from the host.
_________________________________________________
{kdd=1e,70,4f} Dialing Directory window colors
{kmf=1e,70,4f} Macro File window colors
{ksb=03,70,4f} Scrollback window colors
{khf=1e,70} Online Help file window colors
{kee=1e,70} Edit external file window colors
{kvs=1e,70} Variable Space window colors
_________________________________________________
These are the "file" window colors. The three parameters are the
text, titles and selector bar, respectively. Note that some of the
windows do not have a selector bar.
-44-
______________________________________________________
{kcf=70,17} Capture File Options window colors
{ksi=70,17} Screen Image file window colors
{kdw=03,47} Dialer window colors
{kau=70,17} ASCII Upload window colors
{kpw=70,17} Protocol window colors
{kid=70,17} Input data window colors
{kst=70,17} Set Toggles window colors
{ktp=70,17} Terminal Parameters window colors
{kep=70,17} Execute Preview window colors
{kmw=4f,6f} Message window colors
{set mcolor,70,17} Macro Menu colors
______________________________________________________
These are the "pop-up" window colors. The two parameters are the text
and border, respectively. The "Macro Menu" colors are the initial
colors to be used on menus created with the MENU macro function. They
may be changed at any time by redefining the variable "_mcolor".
Colors should be set so that the different parts of the screen
contrast with each other. For example the Status Line should be
easily discernable from the rest of the Terminal Screen. And the
borders and Selector Bar should stand out against the text portion of
the file windows.
-----===== [Alt-H] Hang Up
Disconnects the call by dropping DTR. This will put the modem "on-hook" if
response to DTR is enabled (see Appendix A). If your modem does not
respond properly, you may define a macro to send a "hang-up" command. For
modems using the "AT" command set the macro would look like this:
{:alh} {send ~~~+++~~~ATH|} {} Press Alt-H to hangup
This macro will run when Alt-H is pressed, but you may assign any key you
like.
-----===== [Alt-I] Screen Image Save
The Screen Image Save is used to append all of the text currently on the
screen to a disk file. This is sometimes handier than repeatedly opening
and closing the Capture File.
TIPS on using Screen Image Save:
> The pathname may not be the same as the pathname of an open Capture
File.
-45-
> If the file cannot be opened, the old pathname is retained.
NOTE: The current Screen Image Save file is also used to save blocks of
text in the Scrollback feature.
See also "Capture File Options" and "Scrollback."
-----===== [Alt-K] Scrollback
Scrollback allows you to see what was previously on your screen. Screen
data is saved to a memory buffer (the size is defined in the Setup File).
Set the size to 0 to disable the feature entirely.
A number of commands are available in Scrollback (keys to press are shown
in Online Help):
1) You may navigate as in the Online Help file -- scroll up/down, page
up/down, beginning/end of buffer, etc.
2) Use the String Search feature available in all {COMMO} file windows.
3) Change the Screen Image Save pathname.
4) Write any part of the Scrollback buffer to the current Screen Image
Save file.
5) Exit and return to the same place the next time you call Scrollback.
6) Jump directly to the Dialing Directory or Macro Processor windows.
-----===== [Alt-M] Macro Processor
The Macro Processor executes {COMMO} macros which are resident in memory.
Macros are loaded at program startup from a Macro File (the default is
COMMO.MAC, but an alternate file may be loaded using the "/m" command line
switch). A new Macro File can be loaded at any time using the MACLoad
macro function. The Macro File is maintained with the Internal Editor.
IMPORTANT! Only macros resident in memory may be executed.
Part II shows you how easily you can automate program operations, link to
external protocols (used for Uploading/Downloading), assign keys and
perform a myriad of other functions.
See Online Help for details on operations within the Macro Processor
window.
-46-
-----===== [Alt-N] Multi Number Dialing
Any number of entries may be "marked" in the Dialing Directory, then
automatically dialed in sequence until a connection is established. Multi
Number Dialing may be initiated in one of four ways:
1) Bring up the Dialing Directory window with Alt-D, then move the
Selector Bar to each desired entry and press [Space] (repeat the
procedure to unmark an entry). Press Alt-N to begin dialing at the
location of the Selector Bar.
You can also press [T] to tag an entry without moving the Selector
Bar. Press [R] to untag an entry. These keys are especially helpful
to users with speech synthesizer equipment.
2) Specify entries with Dialing Strings on the command line used to run
{COMMO} (see "Command Line Options"). Specified entries will be
marked and dialed in sequence when {COMMO} is started.
3) Specify entries with Dialing Strings in a macro, using the MARK
function (refer to Part II).
4) Press Alt-N from the Terminal Screen. Dialing of marked entries will
resume with the next system in the sequence.
See also "[Alt-D] Dialing Directory" and the DIAL function in Part II.
-----===== [Alt-O] Send Modem Initialization String
Pressing Alt-O at any time from the Terminal Screen will cause the Modem
Initialization String to be sent to the modem (if one is defined). This is
useful if your modem was powered off or if the modem setup was changed.
-----===== [Alt-P] Set Terminal Parameters
The Terminal Parameters determine the method of transmission of data to and
from your computer. In {COMMO}, they are usually displayed or defined with
a string. For example:
{2400,8n1,1,A,0} Speed,format,port,terminal,delay.
{COMMO} keeps two complete sets of Terminal Parameters:
1) The CURRENT Parameters, always shown on the left side of the
Status Line. These reflect the current settings.
2) The DEFAULT DIALING Parameters. These are defined by the
{ddp=...} item in the Setup File. They may be changed with the
-47-
Alt-P key command (press F2 in the window) or with the DPARms
macro function.
When a number is dialed, the Current Parameters are changed to
the Default Dialing Parameters. Adjustments are then made for
any overrides specified in the Dialing Directory entry (see
below).
---------- Parameter Descriptions
----- Speed
IMPORTANT! Users with 9600 bps or 14400 bps modems should set the port
speed to 38400 or 57600 respectively. For example, {ddp=38400,...}.
The rate at which data travels between your computer and your modem (or
remote system if no modem is used). It is specified as "bits per second"
or "bps." Allowable values are 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200,
38400, 57600, 115200. These may be abbreviated to the first two characters
in Terminal Parameter strings.
See "AutoBaud Detect" for more information on setting the Speed.
----- Data Format
This consists of three parts. Allowable values are:
character length: 7, 8
parity: [n]one, [e]ven, [o]dd, [m]ark, [s]pace
stop-bits: 1, 2
Examples:
7o2 7 bit characters, odd parity, 2 stop bits
8m1 8 bit characters, mark parity, 1 stop bit
The most common formats, "8n1" and "7e1", may be abbreviated to "8" and "7"
in Terminal Parameter strings, such as:
{2400,8,1,A,0}
----- Serial Port
The channel your computer uses to talk to the outside world. May be 1, 2,
3 or 4 (for COM1, COM2, COM3 or COM4).
-48-
NOTE: PCjr users without the internal modem should specify COM2.
----- Terminal Emulation Type
{COMMO} supports the following terminal types:
ANSI-BBS (A)
For calling most bulletin board systems.
VT102 (V)
For calling certain mainframes and online services.
TTY (T)
For turning off almost all control functions (lets you see ANSI
control sequences).
----- Inter-Character Delay
This factor defines the amount of delay to insert between characters
transmitted by the SEND macro function and by ASCII Upload. Use only when
the remote is too slow to process the data (drops characters).
Each unit is about 5 thousandths of a second (5 ms) on a 4.77 MHz XT class
machine. Faster machines require higher values -- on a 12 MHz AT each unit
will only be about 1 ms.
For example, to delay 20 ms between characters (50 cps) use a factor of:
4 on 4.77 MHz XT
16 on 12 MHz AT
27 on 20 MHz 386
55 on 25 MHz 486
The factor will also vary when you use multi-tasking software, so adjust as
necessary. The maximum delay allowed is one second.
---------- How to Set Terminal Parameters
----- With the Alt-P Key Command
Alt-P may be used at any time to change the CURRENT Parameters or the
DEFAULT DIALING Parameters (use F2 to toggle between the two sets).
Remember that Current Parameters will be reset to the Default Dialing
Parameters whenever dialing begins.
-49-
----- In the Dialing Directory
Serial Port Parameters may be specified in a Dialing Directory entry to
OVERRIDE the Default Dialing Parameters. Specify only values that are
different. For example:
{,,3,V}
A different serial port and terminal emulation is required for
this call.
{,7e1}
Unusual format required.
----- Using the Macro functions PARMs and DPARms
Use these to set Terminal Parameters during macro execution. See Part II
for details.
-----===== [Alt-S] Shell to DOS
When you Shell to DOS {COMMO} remains resident in memory and you may
perform any DOS functions as you normally do. Since {COMMO} is small in
size, most of your memory is available when you use this key command.
If you need additional memory you can use {COMMO}'s Swap to Disk feature.
To use this feature you will need to do two things:
1) Be sure that a Swap File is specified in your Setup File (look
for the "swp=" item under "Paths and Files").
2) Enter the following simple macro in your Macro File:
{:als} {shell-s} {}
This macro will Shell to DOS using Swap to Disk when you press
Alt-S (by using a different key assignment, Alt-S can still be
used for Shell to DOS with no swap).
-----===== [Alt-T] Set Toggles
This key command is used to set a number of miscellaneous toggle (yes/no)
parameters. Some take effect while you are still in the Set Toggles window
-- others when you exit the window.
Some of the toggles will be described here. The others are detailed in
their respective sections of this document.
-50-
---------- Sound Control Toggle
This is the Master Sound Control toggle. When sound is OFF all alarms,
sounds and beeps will be silenced. Alarms are individually controlled with
items in the Setup File and with the "A" switch in EXECute macro functions.
---------- Local Echo Toggle
Local Echo (sometimes called half-duplex) is normally used when you connect
to a host that does not echo (i.e., send back) what you type. Also,
{COMMO} will assume that the host is sending a linefeed along with each
carriage return.
Typed characters will be displayed directly to the screen.
---------- Signal Lights Toggle
Turns ON/OFF the "modem lights" display on the Status Line. Shows the
state of the RS-232C signals, including send and receive.
This toggles the right half of the Status Line from the System Name to the
Signal Lights Display. See "What is on the Status Line" in Online Help for
a complete description of the Status Line indicators.
-----===== [Alt-U] Utility Menu
The Utility Menu is supported by a macro in COMMO.MAC. It contains a
selection of features created by {COMMO} macros.
Example features include:
Edit any external text file less than 64k in size.
Run any macro by name (label).
Load any Macro File.
Run the host mode macro, MOSTHOST.MAC.
Edit the host mode macro.
NOTE: The Utility Menu will not be available when another Macro File has
been loaded by the MACLoad macro function.
-51-
-----===== [Alt-W] Send Current Password
Each entry in the Dialing Directory can have its own Password String.
After dialing a number, the Alt-W key command will send the current
Password String to the remote system.
Usually, a carriage return must be sent following the Password String.
This can be done manually by pressing Enter after pressing Alt-W. Or you
can send the carriage return automatically in one of following ways:
1) Place a "|" after the password in each of your Dialing Directory
entries. For example:
{pword|}
2) Use the following macro which will replace the default Alt-W
command:
{:alw} {send %_pas|} {}
For additional details on Passwords see "[Alt-D] Dialing Directory."
-----===== [Alt-X] Exit from {COMMO}
This key command will cause {COMMO} to terminate, saving all support files
with outstanding changes.
You may configure {COMMO} to leave DTR high when exiting so that you may
exit and remain connected to a system (this is the default, see "[Alt-G]
Edit Setup File").
If you re-enter {COMMO} while still online you should use the "/in" command
line switch to prevent the Modem Initialization String from being sent.
Alt-X may also be pressed from the Dialing Directory, Macro File or
Scrollback windows for a quick exit.
-----===== [Alt-1] Capture File Options
When Capture is OPEN all information written to your screen will be saved
to the designated disk file. This command allows you to:
1) OPEN/CLOSE the Capture File.
2) Change to a different file.
3) Change the Capture Mode.
Data may be captured in one of three modes. The startup Capture Mode is
selected in the Setup File.
-52-
If the mode is set to SCREEN, data will be captured exactly as it
appears on the Terminal Screen (note that lines that wrap on the
screen will appear as separate lines in the output file). This mode
greatly improves the appearance of data captured from screens drawn
with ANSI positioning sequences (e.g., animation).
FILTER mode is used primarily when you need to capture lines longer
than the width of the screen (e.g., to be printed on a wide carriage
printer). ANSI control sequences will be stripped out if ANSI-BBS or
VT102 emulation is on. Characters will be translated if the receive
Translate Table is on.
Use RAW mode when you want all data captured exactly as it comes from
the serial port. ANSI control sequences will not be stripped and
length of lines will be preserved. This mode can be used to capture
ANSI animation and color to be "played back" later.
TIPS on using the Capture File:
> IMPORTANT! If the disk fills up while capture is open, a "disk full"
message will appear for several seconds. The file will be closed and
processing will continue. The built-in variable "_dfc" will be set to
1.
> IMPORTANT! When capturing to a floppy drive, the diskette should not
be removed until the Capture File is closed (this also applies if the
"disk full" message appears). DOS is unaware of a disk change and may
overwrite the replacement disk.
> The old file will be closed if a new file is opened.
> If Capture Mode is set to SCREEN, text will be saved as it scrolls OFF
the screen. To prevent loss of data, the entire screen will be saved
in the following situations:
(1) whenever the screen is cleared
(2) Capture is closed with Alt-1
(3) {COMMO} is terminated
(4) the mode is changed from SCREEN to FILTER or RAW
> If Capture Mode is set to FILTER or RAW, text will be saved as it
arrives from the serial port.
See also "Screen Image Save."
-----===== [Alt-2] Print Log Toggle
Turns the Print Log ON/OFF. When ON all information written to your screen
will be printed to LPT1. Handy for getting hard-copy of file lists,
messages, etc.
-53-
TIPS on using the Print Log:
> Text is printed as it scrolls OFF the screen.
> To prevent loss of data, the entire screen will be printed in the
following situations:
(1) whenever the screen is cleared
(2) Print Log is turned off with Alt-2
(3) {COMMO} is terminated
> Flow Control should be used if your printer cannot keep up with the
incoming data (see Appendix C).
-----===== [Alt--] Chat Mode Toggle (Alt minus)
Chat Mode is normally used when you wish to converse via keyboard. The
screen will be split with the upper portion showing what the remote is
sending, while the lower portion shows what you type.
The method used to send typed characters is selected in the Setup File
under the section "Video and Chat Mode." The two possible methods are:
1) Each character is sent as you type it. This method is normally
used when you are chatting with another person who is also in
Chat Mode.
2) All characters are sent at once when you press Enter (up to 240
characters will be buffered). Use this method when you are using
a teleconferencing system or "CB Simulator."
The number of lines in the upper and lower portions of the screen (the
"line split") may also be set in the "Video and Chat Mode" section.
TIPS on using Chat Mode:
> Alt-- (Alt minus) is used to enter AND exit Chat Mode.
> All {COMMO} functions are available in Chat Mode except Doorway Mode.
-----===== [Alt-=] Doorway Mode Toggle
Definition: "Extended keys" are function keys, Alt keys, cursor keys, etc.
In other words, keys that do not generate ASCII characters.
In Doorway Mode all extended keys will send their key codes to the remote
(instead of activating {COMMO} functions). Thus Doorway Mode can be used
to operate most application software on the remote system when used with a
-54-
host program such as Marshall Dudley's Doorway. In addition some BBS full-
screen editors use Doorway Mode.
TIPS on using Doorway Mode:
> The Alt-= key is necessarily reserved for exiting Doorway Mode and
thus cannot be sent to the remote. Be sure to configure remote
applications accordingly.
> The display should be set to the number of lines expected by the host
program. Usually this is 25 lines of text. If your display is not in
the proper mode, the results will be unpredictable.
> The Status Line is normally suppressed in Doorway Mode, but may be
turned on by using the "S" switch in a macro:
{:al=} {doorway-s} {}
The "s" switch is ignored when exiting Doorway Mode and the Status
Line will be restored to its previous state. Remember that when the
Status Line is on, there is one less usable line on the Terminal
Screen.
> If it is necessary to clear the screen or to reset the terminal
emulation mode parameters when starting Doorway Mode, use a macro.
For example:
{:al=} {clear} {parms ,,,a} {doorway} {}
This macro will execute when entering or exiting Doorway Mode (Alt-=
must be used to exit, but any key may be assigned to enter Doorway
Mode).
> For most applications you will want Terminal-Type set to ANSI-BBS.
It's a good idea to enter Doorway Mode before starting the host
program. The host may send commands to initialize the terminal.
> If Software Flow Control is enabled, the ASCII character values 17 and
19 (XON and XOFF) will not display. If these characters are needed,
Software Flow Control must be turned off.
-----===== [F1] How to Use Online Help
A summary of {COMMO}'s operations is available by pressing F1. The Online
Help support file, COMMO.HLP, must be in the {COMMO} home directory or you
will get an error message.
This message will also be issued if there is not enough memory to load the
Online Help file. Note that the file is retained in memory until {COMMO}
requires memory for some other program function. It will automatically be
re-read when necessary.
-55-
Once the Help window is entered you will see the Help control keys listed
at the bottom of the screen. At this point you may obtain more detailed
information about using Online Help by typing "H".
---------- Modifying the Help File
When you are familiar with {COMMO} you may wish to reduce the size of the
Help File. Feel free to edit this file -- you can even set up your own
menu.
The search keys are in the bars separating the topics. The character
following the "T" in the middle of the bar may be changed to create your
own key. Keep in mind that the context-related Help uses topic characters
that cannot be changed.
The HELP macro function enables you to assign a key to go directly to any
topic in Online Help. For example:
{:cf6} {help J} {}
will go to topic "TJ" when Ctrl-F6 is pressed. Use any single character as
the key (do not include the "T").
If you change the Help File, remember to keep a backup copy of the
original.
-----===== [PgUp]/[PgDn] Uploading/Downloading
When you press PgUp or PgDn you will be presented with a menu of file
transfer protocols. Protocols provide the ability to transfer (send and
receive) any type of data using error detection and correction techniques.
The PgUp and PgDn menus are implemented using {COMMO}'s powerful Macro
Processor which enables you to execute internal and external protocols
easily and seamlessly.
Files for uploading (sending) are chosen from the file selection menu
(supported by SELECT.MAC). Only one file should be selected when using the
Xmodem protocol.
You may alter these macros to suit your individual needs.
---------- Internal Protocols
{COMMO} provides a number of variations on the Xmodem and Ymodem protocols
which afford you varying degrees of convenience, speed and security.
-56-
Xmodem is the most basic protocol, sending data one block at a time and
waiting for a response to each block. If the block was received with
errors, the receiver requests retransmission. A filename must be supplied
at both ends of the transfer (they need not be the same).
Ymodem adds the capability of batch (multi-file) transfers. It also sends
the name and size of each file just prior to transmission of the file (the
receiver does not supply any filenames).
NOTE: If an incoming filename matches an existing filename in the target
directory, the batch transfer will be cancelled. You can force overwriting
of like-named files by adding the "Y" switch to the Ymodem macros.
There are a number of variations which apply to both Xmodem and Ymodem.
Their use depends upon what is offered by the remote system and whether or
not you have an error-correcting modem.
CRC
This is a very reliable block-check method and should be used
whenever possible.
Csum
This block-check method is not as reliable and should not be used
unless there is no other option.
1k byte block size
The larger block size is much more efficient and is preferred
unless noisy lines are causing a lot of block retransmissions.
128 byte block size
The small block size should be used only when there is no other
option or on noisy lines.
G
The "G" method eliminates the receiver's response to each block
and is therefore much faster. It still performs error checking,
but not error recovery. Therefore it should only be used with an
error-correcting modem or on a direct connection between
computers.
When an error is encountered, the transfer will be cancelled.
Partial files will be kept. The "G" method always uses CRC and
1k blocks.
IMPORTANT! The macros that support the internal protocols are set up for
the most common situations. Many variations are possible by modifying
these macros. Please refer to descriptions of the functions RXMOdem,
RYMOdem, SXMOdem and SYMOdem in Part II for details.
-57-
---------- ASCII Upload/Download
Text files may be sent and received using the ASCII protocol. This method
performs no error checking or error correction and should only be used when
other protocols are not available.
It might be used, for example, to upload a prepared message to a host that
was waiting for you to type the message. Or it could be used to receive a
bulletin or other information that you would normally read while on line.
To upload a text file, use the Alt-A key command. See "Alt-A ASCII
Upload."
To download text information to a file, use {COMMO}'s Capture File feature.
Use the Alt-1 key command to set the filename and Capture Mode. Open the
Capture File just prior to receiving the information. Then close it after
all data has been received. Note that the file may require some editing.
See "Alt-1 Capture File Options."
---------- External Protocols
The Macro File is pre-configured with macros that execute various popular
protocol "drivers" (external protocol programs). You may add macros for
any other protocol drivers that you need. See Part II for details on
writing macros.
Protocols such as Zmodem, HS/Link and MPt offer convenience, speed and
reliability. They include features such as:
1) Automatic startup.
2) Transmission of file names, sizes and dates.
3) Batch (multiple file) transfers.
4) Resuming partial (failed) transfers.
5) Bi-directional transfers (HS/Link only)
External protocol drivers can be obtained from BBS's and other sources.
You can download them using {COMMO}'s internal protocols.
To install the external protocol driver programs, just place the executable
files (e.g., DSZ.COM, HSLINK.EXE, OZBEXT.EXE) in a directory which is
specified in your DOS path statement. If you don't have a path statement
in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file, place the executable in your C:\COMMO directory.
In the latter case, change to this directory before you start {COMMO}.
Each of the protocol driver programs has additional features that may be
useful to you. Refer to the program's documentation for more information.
-58-
---------- Zmodem with DSZ or GSZ
NOTE: DSZ and GSZ are Shareware programs from Omen Technology. Like
{COMMO}, they must be registered for continued use (be aware that some
features are not enabled in the unregistered versions).
DSZ may almost always be found where you obtained {COMMO} and is usually
archived as DSZmmdd.ZIP (mmdd is a release date). DSZ will transfer files
using the popular Zmodem protocol.
The executable file to install is DSZ.COM. There is also a DSZ.EXE version
that works better on some systems. Look for the archive DSZmmddX.ZIP.
GSZ is functionally equivalent to DSZ. In addition GSZ provides an
attractive graphic display of the file transfer in progress.
The executable file to install is GSZ.EXE.
To use any of the Omen drivers, you need only change one item in the Setup
File:
{set z_prog,DSZC} for DSZ.COM
{set z_prog,DSZE} for DSZ.EXE
{set z_prog,GSZ} for GSZ.EXE
---------- Zmodem with TXZM
TXZM, Texas Zmodem, is an excellent Zmodem driver. It combines very fast
execution speed with a good graphic display -- and TXZM is free for
personal use.
The executable file to install is TXZM.EXE.
To use Texas Zmodem, change the "set z_prog" item in the Setup File:
{set z_prog,TXZM} for TXZM.EXE
---------- Using HS/Link
HS/Link is a Shareware program that offers very fast file transfers. The
HS/Link protocol has all of the features of Zmodem. In addition, it has
bi-directional capability for uploading and downloading simultaneously with
a full-duplex modem (make sure the remote system allows this feature before
attempting it).
When you select a download with HS/Link (or if it is started automatically,
see "Auto Receive"), you will be asked if you have "Any files to upload" as
well. Answer "no" (or just press Enter) for download only.
-59-
The executable file to install is HSLINK.EXE.
---------- Using MPt
MPt is a Shareware program that transfers files using the MPt protocol
(similar to Zmodem, but not compatible). It offers an excellent graphic
display during file transfers.
The executable file to install is MPT.EXE.
---------- Using OZBEXT
OZBEXT is a file transfer program for CompuServe users (download it from
CIS in the IBMCOM forum under Protocols -- it is free for personal use).
This protocol offers much better network throughput than Xmodem.
When you see the protocol selection menu on CompuServe, always select the
"B" or "B+" protocol (NOT "Quick B").
The executable file to install is OZBEXT.EXE.
-----===== {COMMO} Auto Receive
This feature will automatically start a macro when a specified string is
received from the serial port and may be used for starting downloads.
Up to 16 strings and respective macro labels may be defined in the
"Terminal and Modem" section of the Setup File. These are preconfigured
for the Zmodem, HS/Link and MPt protocol "signature" strings, but you may
change them or add new ones as desired.
As an example, suppose one of the Auto Receive strings in your Setup File
is:
{pzbr,^XB00} Zmodem Auto Receive
This means that when the string "^XB00" is received, the macro at label
"pzbr" will be started. This string is the Zmodem "signature" string and
is sent repeatedly by the sender until the receiver is ready to receive
files.
In your Macro File you would have the corresponding macro:
Z BATCH {:pzbr}
{exec %dszprog port %_por rz -mr %dldir} {}
-60-
{COMMO} will execute the macro as soon as the signature string is received
(be patient, a BBS may take several seconds to load and execute its own
protocol program).
IMPORTANT! If you have not properly installed the protocol program, the
message "Bad command or file name" will be periodically displayed by DOS.
If this happens type Ctrl-X repeatedly until the sender cancels the
transfer.
TIPS on using Auto Receive:
> If the macro called by Auto Receive EXECutes a DOS command, you may
want to use EXECute Preview Mode for preliminary testing. This will
allow you to view the command before execution and to see the results
afterwards. Preview Mode may be toggled on/off using the Alt-T key
command.
> Auto Receive will not trigger on characters that are displayed to the
screen while a macro is running. If you need to download within a
macro, you should do a LOOKfor to wait for the signature string, then
CALL the download macro (make sure you have a RETUrn at the end).
> Using short strings, such as "^E" for CIS B protocol may result in
unexpected triggering of the macro. This is because other systems may
send the same string for a different purpose (to display a "club"
symbol, for example). Thus it may be necessary to disable a string at
times or to discontinue its use.
> A string may be disabled by removing the corresponding macro label in
the Macro File. This may degrade performance since the Macro File
must be scanned each time a "hit" occurs. The best way is to remove
the Setup File item.
> Auto Receive can be set up for protocols that do not send signature
strings, such as Xmodem, Ymodem, Ymodem-G, etc. Use the prompt that
the BBS sends just prior to the file transfer. For example, "Start
your Ymodem-G now." Note that different systems may use different
prompts.
> An Auto Receive string can be used to automatically continue Multi
Number Dialing after you disconnect (in manual mode). Set one of the
strings to:
{aut=nocar,^jNO CARRIER^m}
Then enter a macro in the Macro File:
{:nocar} {dial ,} {}
When your modem sends "NO CARRIER" the macro will start. Multi Number
Dialing will resume if any more systems are marked in the Dialing
Directory.
-61-
See also "TIPS on creating LOOKfor strings" in Part II under LOOKfor.
-----===== Keyboard Macros: Customizing Key Commands
In {COMMO} you can assign a key to perform almost any program function or
combination of functions. For example, suppose you want to press Ctrl-F5
to send your name followed by a carriage return. You can enter a simple
macro in your Macro File to do this.
Press Alt-M, then "E" to edit. Position the cursor where you want your new
macro to be, then press Alt-I a few times to open some space. Now type in
this macro:
{:cf5} {send First Last|} {}
This simple macro has the basic components of any macro.
{:cf5} label (the entry point).
{send ...} function (the action part).
{} STOP (to terminate the macro).
When Ctrl-F5 is pressed, {COMMO} will search the Macro File for {:cf5} and
execute the macro function(s) that follow. In this case the string "First
Last|" will be sent to the serial port. Notice that the "|" converts to a
carriage return.
A keyboard macro may also be used to change a default key assignment. For
example, Alt-K will normally bring up the Scrollback Buffer window. If
you'd rather use the Up Arrow key for this purpose, enter this macro:
{:upa} {scroll} {}
TIPS on creating keyboard macros:
> A complete list of {COMMO} key labels is given in Appendix H.
> Appendix D explains how to represent special characters (such as
carriage returns) in macros.
> Press Alt-E while using the Internal Editor to see the complete list
of editing keys and editing rules.
> Read the Macro Programming Guide to learn the full power of the
{COMMO} macro language.
-62-
========== Appendix A: Setting Up Your Modem
Please be aware that there are many different modems in use and that it is
of the utmost importance that you configure your modem to work correctly
with {COMMO}. A few tips will be given here, but they are no substitute
for the detailed installation instructions in your modem manual!
When {COMMO} is started, a command string called the Modem Initialization
String will be sent to the modem. You must make certain that you have the
correct string in your Setup File. This string will perform part or all of
the modem setup depending on the type of modem. Examples will be given for
the most common types.
If your modem is external to your computer, be sure you have followed the
installation instructions carefully and that the cable is connected to the
computer's serial port. It is wise to turn off power to the computer and
the modem when connecting or disconnecting any cables.
Also check the Default Dialing Parameters in the Setup File. Make sure the
serial port number is correct.
-----===== 1200 bps Modems
Most 1200 bps modems have switches on them which must be set to provide the
proper interaction with your computer and with {COMMO}. Consult your modem
manual concerning these switches and pay particular attention to the
following:
1) Enable command recognition. Allows the modem to recognize
commands (dial, set registers, etc.). Must be in the "enable"
position or modem will be unusable.
2) Send result codes in English. This switch should be set so that
the modem will send verbal responses to commands instead of
numbers. This is usually controlled by a command also (such as
ATV1).
3) Respond to DTR (data terminal ready). This should NOT be in the
"ignore" or "on all the time" position. This switch allows the
computer to signal the modem to hang up.
4) Respond to carrier detect or "allow true carrier." This should
NOT be set to the "on all the time" position.
Here is an example Modem Initialization String which will set up a 1200 bps
modem and override the switch settings (if possible):
{~~AT S0=0 S7=60 E0 Q0 V1 X1 |~~}
-63-
The most important command to check is the "X" command, since its function
varies the most from modem to modem. The "X" command determines which
responses the modem will generate during dialing (e.g. CONNECT, BUSY,
etc.). It may also activate an additional modem feature such as automatic
redialing which will interfere with {COMMO}'s own redialing procedure.
Your modem manual gives a description for each level of the "X" command:
X0, X1, X2, ... , etc. Generally you want to use the highest level that
does not activate undesirable features. If you will be using {COMMO}'s
AutoBaud feature you will need the extended connect responses such as
CONNECT 1200. Also the BUSY response should be provided if possible. In
any case you should modify the Modem Initialization String to work with
your particular modem.
-----===== 2400, 9600, 14400 bps Modems
IMPORTANT! Users with 9600 bps or 14400 bps modems should set the port
speed to 38400 or 57600 respectively. For example, {ddp=38400,...}.
Most of the information in the section above on 1200 bps modems applies to
higher speed modems as well. However, these modems usually have software
command settings to replace the switches. These commands may be given
every time you start {COMMO} or they may be permanently remembered by
modems which have "non-volatile" memory.
It will be assumed here that the commands are given every time you start
{COMMO}. If you wish to place the settings in non-volatile memory, consult
your modem manual for instructions (usually the "&W" command). Here is an
example Modem Initialization String for most higher speed modems:
{~~AT S0=0 S7=180 E0 Q0 V1 X4 &C1 &D2 |~~}
See the comments above concerning the "X" command since they apply to these
modems as well.
IMPORTANT! Many modems that operate at 2400 bps and above require
additional commands to control features such as error correction and data
compression. Consult the modem manual for details. Insert these commands
into the above string.
If you need to change the Modem Initialization String, edit the Setup File
with the Alt-G key command, then restart the program to send the string to
the modem.
-64-
-----===== Answering a call from another computer
The following information assumes that you are not using the MOSTHOST or
other {COMMO} host mode macro. If you use a host macro, follow the
instructions for installing and operating the host.
There are two easy ways to use {COMMO} to answer when a friend or associate
calls you by computer. For best results, make sure you are in Chat Mode.
Press Alt-- (Alt minus) to enter/exit Chat Mode.
1) While in Chat Mode or in the Terminal Screen, wait for the phone to
ring, then type "ATA<cr>" (upper case is not necessary with many
modems). Your modem should answer immediately (go off hook) and begin
handshaking with the remote modem.
When you see the CONNECT message you are ready to communicate. At
this point you can type, send data with macro keys, send a text file
with ASCII Upload or send any file with an internal or external
protocol.
You can use a macro key to send the answer command to the modem. For
example, to send it by pressing F5, place the following macro in your
Macro File:
{:nf5} {send ATA|} {} Answer the phone!
When the telephone rings, press F5.
2) The other method involves setting your modem into Auto Answer Mode.
This method is useful in some situations, but will cause the modem to
answer whenever the phone rings. This can be undesirable if you get a
voice call.
To set Auto Answer just type "ATS0=1<cr>" (or make "S0=1" part of your
Modem Initialization String). This will tell the modem to answer on
ring "1" (adjust to as many rings as desired). To turn off Auto
Answer type "ATS0=0<cr>". These may also be sent with macro keys.
-----===== Connecting two computers (null modem cable)
{COMMO} may be used on a "direct connection" between two computers or
between a computer and another serial device. Connect the two serial ports
with a "null modem" cable. Then start the program on each computer, having
selected the appropriate Default Dialing Parameters in the Setup File(s).
Dialing conditions may be simulated by using a null {} phone number and
"dialing" the entry. This allows directory entry variables to be set and
also actuates features such as the Usage Log and the elapsed timer on the
Status Line. If a Linked Macro is specified, it will be started.
-65-
The null modem cable should be designed so that the transmit line on each
end connects to the receive line on the other end. No other signals are
needed, but none of the RS-232C signals should be left "floating." They
should be tied high or low (or grounded).
-66-
========== Appendix B {COMMO} and Multi-Tasking
-----===== DESQview
Special care has been taken to ensure that {COMMO} is compatible with
Quarterdeck Office Systems' DESQview(tm), a multi-tasking supervisor.
DESQview allows more than one program to execute at the same time.
A sample Program Information File (CO-PIF.DVP) has been included in the
{COMMO} package for your convenience. This file is installed as follows:
1) Copy the file to your DESQview directory (usually C:\DV).
2) Run "Add a Program" (AP) from the "Open Window" menu.
3) Select "Other." Specify the DESQview directory as the "Path."
4) Mark the {COMMO} entry, press Enter. "CO" should now appear on
your "Open Window" menu.
The CO-PIF.DVP file has been set up to define a 150k memory window. The
amount of memory actually required is affected by the size of your
COMMO.FON file, your COMMO.MAC file and the size of your Scrollback buffer.
Test the size of the window by running DSZ, HS/Link, LIST, etc., from the
Macro Processor or Shell to DOS. Be sure to test the execution of external
programs with a "wait" at the end (or use EXECute Preview Mode) so that you
can see any error messages (see EXEC function).
CO-PIF.DVP can be changed with the "Change a Program" (CP) command on the
"Open Window" menu. You may also want to change the directory information
or other parameters.
TIPS on using {COMMO} with DESQview:
> For best performance the foreground and background "tick counts"
should both be 10 or less. Tick counts should be reduced when data is
being received at very high speeds.
For example, receiving uncompressed data can result in serial port
speed bursts up to 57600 bps. In this situation, ticks should be set
at 3 and 3. This will ensure that {COMMO} can get control before too
many characters have accumulated in its receive buffer.
> If you switch to another task, do not attempt to access any files
which may be in use in the {COMMO} window. Examples are the Capture
File, the Screen Image File and files that may be currently involved
in a file transfer (upload or download). The result may be a loss of
part or all of the data in the file. This is a general DESQview
no-no. You may freely access these files in the Shell to DOS or Macro
Processor features of {COMMO} (within the same window).
> If the memory allocated to the window is too small, {COMMO} will not
be able to load the Online Help file. Since the Online Help file is
-67-
loaded only when requested, you needn't be concerned if you don't
intend to use it.
> The video display may seem less smooth in DESQview. This is a result
of {COMMO} using the fastest possible display method, and is quite
normal. This effect can be reduced by specifying fewer clock ticks
for foreground and background (4 and 4 seems to work well).
> The Snow Checking option should not be used when {COMMO} is run under
DESQview. If you see "snow" type interference in your CGA display,
use DESQview's own snow checking (request "synchronized access" in the
Setup program).
-----===== OS/2 and Windows
{COMMO} will auto-detect the presence of OS/2 or Windows. As much
processing time as possible will be returned to the system for use by other
tasks.
As of this writing, users are reporting improved performance under OS/2
with Ray Gwinn's SIO/VSIO replacement serial port drivers. These are
available on CompuServe (go os2user, lib 3), Exec-PC (OS/2 collection) and
many other BBS systems. Look for SIOnnn.ZIP.
-----===== OmniView
Display bleed-through may be avoided by telling OmniView that {COMMO}
"Supports TopView Functions" or by using the "/T" switch on the OmniView
command line.
See "TIPS on using {COMMO} with DESQview" in the previous section, most of
which apply to OmniView as well.
-----===== DoubleDOS
Color displays require the "DISPLAY = TEXT" option in DDCONFIG.SYS. Run
{COMMO} in the bottom partition -- about 130k to 150k should suffice if you
plan to use Online Help and/or external protocols. Increase this size in
proportion to the size of your Scrollback buffer.
Some non-multi-tasker-aware, direct-screen-writing programs executed with
the Macro Processor or Shell to DOS may not display properly. If this
happens you may have to run {COMMO} in the top partition.
Use the supplied DBLDANSI.SYS driver in place of your ANSI.SYS for running
other programs in this partition ({COMMO} doesn't use it).
-68-
With this setup you may run any non-graphics program in the top partition,
including direct screen writers.
Monochrome displays require the REFRESH option in DDCONFIG.SYS. Refer to
the DoubleDOS user's manual for information on this.
See "TIPS on using {COMMO} with DESQview" in the previous section, most of
which apply to DoubleDOS as well.
-69-
========== Appendix C Flow Control
Flow Control is a signalling system used by communications devices to
prevent data from being transmitted faster than it can be processed by the
receiving system. This is especially important when data is transferred at
high speeds.
Flow Control is initialized in the Setup File and is used by {COMMO} for
both sending and receiving. You may specify Software Flow Control,
Hardware Flow Control or both.
Software Flow Control uses a control character called XOFF (or ^S) to
signal the remote to pause. XON (^Q) is the signal to "resume
transmission." This is normally used only for ASCII data, since these
characters may appear randomly within binary data. An XOFF pause will
automatically be released in 20 seconds if no XON is received. It will
also be released if you type a character in the Terminal Screen.
Hardware Flow Control uses the RTS/CTS lines in your RS-232C (serial port)
cable to signal pause/resume without interfering with the data. It is used
when you are connected to a device which also recognizes RTS/CTS Flow
Control (such as a high-speed modem or another computer connected with an
appropriate null modem cable). A CTS-off (send) pause will not be released
automatically.
TIPS on using Flow Control:
> Hardware Flow Control problems can generally be avoided by using the
{hfc=auto} option in your Setup File.
> Your modem must be properly initialized to utilize flow control
(consult the modem manual for details).
> Since Software Flow Control uses the XOFF (ASCII 19) and XON (ASCII
17) characters, these will not display on the screen. If it is
necessary to display them, Software Flow Control must be turned off.
> It is especially important to use Flow Control when the Print Log is
on, since data is usually received faster than it can be printed. If
you type a character to the remote during a flow control pause, the
remote may begin sending again (some systems resume on any character,
not just XON). You may have to turn off the Print Log if this
happens.
-70-
========== Appendix D ASCII Character Representation
Sometimes it is necessary to enter control characters and other special
characters in the {COMMO} support files or as input to {COMMO} key
commands.
For example, a carriage return (typed with the Enter key) is used to
terminate your typed input. Therefore a carriage return must be
represented by some other character (or characters) in order to be used as
data.
The process of converting represented characters to actual characters is
done in many places in {COMMO}. Some examples are:
1) Strings sent to the modem. These include the Modem
Initialization String, dialing prefixes and suffixes, telephone
numbers, the Password String, strings defined in macro functions
such as SEND, SETLook (prompt response), VTCUr and VTPAd.
2) Strings defined in other macro functions such as LOOKfor, GOLOok,
EXECute and DISPlay.
All control characters may be represented using the (^) caret symbol (it is
the shift character above the top row "6"). If you need to send a caret,
use two carets (^^).
For convenience, two "normal" characters have special meanings in certain
contexts:
The vertical bar (|) may be used to represent a carriage return. If
you need a vertical bar, use (^|). In the EXECute function the
vertical bar is never converted (it is used by DOS as the "pipe"
symbol).
The tilde (~) forces a one-half second delay when it is encountered in
a string that is being sent to the modem. If you need a tilde, use
(^~). This is effective only in strings that are sent to the modem.
In other strings the tilde is used as a tilde.
Finally, curly braces { } are very special characters and may not be used
as data in the support files. They are represented as follows, using
parentheses:
Left curly brace ^(
Right curly brace ^)
-71-
Here is a list of some of the most common control characters and how to
represent them. Upper or lower case may be used.
Carriage return ^M or |
Linefeed ^J
Formfeed ^L
Escape ^[
Bell ^G
XOFF ^S
XON ^Q
End of file ^Z
Here is a table of all ASCII control characters. Values are decimal:
0 ... ^@ 7 ... ^G 14 ... ^N 21 ... ^U
1 ... ^A 8 ... ^H 15 ... ^O 22 ... ^V
2 ... ^B 9 ... ^I 16 ... ^P 23 ... ^W
3 ... ^C 10 ... ^J 17 ... ^Q 24 ... ^X
4 ... ^D 11 ... ^K 18 ... ^R 25 ... ^Y
5 ... ^E 12 ... ^L 19 ... ^S 26 ... ^Z
6 ... ^F 13 ... ^M 20 ... ^T 27 ... ^[
ASCII 28 to 31 and those in the extended graphic character set (128 to
255), may be typed using the ALT-NUMERIC-KEYPAD method as follows:
1. Hold down the Alt key (and keep it down).
2. Enter the ASCII code in decimal using the numeric keypad keys (1,
2 or 3 digits are ok).
3. Release the Alt key.
-72-
========== Appendix E Terminal Emulation
Terminal Emulation Type is indicated on the Status Line (in the Terminal
Parameters string). Available types are:
A ANSI-BBS
Used on bulletin boards and other systems.
V VT102
Used on minicomputers and mainframes.
T TTY
Supports only the basic control characters.
The Terminal Emulation Type (as defined by the Default Dialing Parameters
string) will be set whenever a system is dialed. It may be overridden for
the current call by using the Parms field in the Dialing Directory entry.
It may also be changed temporarily using the Alt-P key command or the PARMs
macro function. The Default Dialing Parameters may be changed using the
Alt-P key command or the DPARms macro function.
IMPORTANT! The Terminal Emulation Type affects only received data (as
displayed to the screen). The proper macros must be installed to obtain
the correct keyboard simulation. The following sections describe how to do
this.
-----===== ANSI-BBS Keyboard Support
The sample Macro File includes macros to use the PC keypad keys (arrow
keys, PgUp, PgDn, etc.) with most BBS full-screen editors.
-----===== VT102 Keyboard Simulation
Two keyboard files, VT102-1.MAC and VT102-2.MAC, provide support to
simulate the VT102 keyboard. You may merge one of these into COMMO.MAC if
you intend to use VT102 all the time (replace the ANSI-BBS keys). Be sure
that you have no conflicting key-labels (remember that {COMMO} will use the
first occurrence of a key-label).
Or you can use the MACLoad function in your login macro to load the VT102
file automatically when you connect to the host. Use the "R" switch to
reload COMMO.MAC at disconnect. For example:
{macload-r vt102-1.mac}
Both files support the following PC keypad functions (^ indicates the Ctrl
key):
-73-
Four cursor (arrow) keys
Home - Home cursor
^Home - Insert line
PgUp - Page up
^PgUp - Delete line
PgDn - Page down
^PgDn - Clear screen
End - End of line
Ins - Insert mode
Del - Delete
^bs - Ctrl backspace (delete)
VT102 numeric keypad keys are auto-switched by the host system between
numeric mode and application mode.
The four cursor keys are auto-switched between cursor mode and application
mode.
These files may be modified to create any keyboard support you desire (see
description of VTCUr and VTPAd functions in the section "{COMMO} Macro
Functions."
---------- VT102-1.MAC
This file contains keyboard assignments that work best with the enhanced
keyboard (because of the separate cursor keys, etc.).
With Numlock ON the ten digits and period will simulate their equivalent
VT102 functions. In addition:
F1 to F4 simulate PF1 to PF4
Grey * is used for comma
Grey - is used for dash
Grey + is used for Enter
---------- VT102-2.MAC
This file contains keyboard assignments that work best with the 83-key
keyboard (because of the location of the function keys on the left side).
The following diagram shows how the ten function keys (Fn) and ten shifted
function keys (SFn) relate to the VT102 keypad keys:
-74-
F1= PF1 F2= PF2 SF1= PF3 SF2= PF4
F3= 7 F4= 8 SF3= 9 SF4= -
F5= 4 F6= 5 SF5= 6 SF6= ,
F7= 1 F8= 2 SF7= 3 SF8= Enter
F9= 0 F10= 0 SF9= . SF10= Enter
-----===== Printer Support
{COMMO} supports the ANSI/VT102 printer functions, controlled by the remote
system:
The "Printer ON/OFF" function will turn {COMMO}'s Print Log ON/OFF.
The "Dedicated Printing" function will send all input from the serial
port directly to the printer. This allows for "transparent"
transmission of printer data, including control codes.
The "Print Screen" function will print the entire current screen.
The printer should be on and ready to print when these functions are used.
When "Dedicated Printing" is active no characters will be displayed on the
screen.
TIPS on using terminal emulation:
> Whenever a change is made, a reset of mode parameters will be
performed. It is therefore important that the change be made BEFORE
(or at the time of) connecting with a host (mode settings may be
transmitted by the host).
> If some screens do not look right when VT102 emulation is used, you
may need to turn LINEWRAP off (it defaults to on).
> Linewrap may be turned on/off locally using the DISPlay macro
function. Place one of the following in your login macro (or assign
one of them to a key and execute it manually):
{display ,,,^[[?7h} linewrap ON
{display ,,,^[[?7l} linewrap OFF
> {COMMO} will support auto-switching to 132 column mode, but you must
define the hardware video mode that causes your video adapter to
switch to 25x132 (rows, columns). See the item {avm=} under "[Alt-G]
Edit Setup File" for details. Note that your video adapter should be
in 25x80 when you start {COMMO}.
-75-
> If colors do not always look right, it may be necessary to set the
Terminal Screen colors in the Setup File to {07}. See the note under
"Colors" in the section "[Alt-G] Edit Setup File."
-76-
========== Appendix F Usage Log Format
Example of a connect entry:
{On} 06/10/93 18:11 9600 bps Channel 1
{On}
A connection was made.
06/10/93
Date of connect.
18:11
Time of connect.
9600 bps
Speed of connect as reported by the "success response string."
Channel 1
Name of system called.
Example of a disconnect entry:
{Off} 06/10/93 18:12 2:17 1 617 354 3230
{Off}
A call was terminated.
06/10/93
Date of termination.
18:13
Time of termination.
2:17
Duration of call in minutes:seconds.
1 617 354 3230
Telephone number of called system.
Example of a file transfer entry:
{SX} 0 c:\ul\nlbbs.rep 1664 CRC 1024 G 0 errors
{SX}
Send with Xmodem.
0
Transfer successful (0) or failed (1).
-77-
c:\ul\nlbbs.rep
Pathname of file.
1664
Bytes transferred.
CRC
Block check method, CRC or csum.
1024
Largest block size used.
G
Streaming method was used.
0 errors
Total number of errors (corrected if transfer was successful).
NOTE: You may configure an external protocol program to make log entries
to your {COMMO} Usage Log file. The format of these entries is explained
in the documentation for the protocol program.
-78-
========== Appendix G Error Message Explanations
If you get an error message that you don't understand, check below for
additional information.
________________________________
Sorry, out of memory
Not enough memory for Scrollback
________________________________
These messages may occur at program startup. Check the following:
1) {COMMO} cannot allocate its internal buffers. You must make more
memory available.
2) {COMMO} cannot load the Dialing Directory and/or Macro File. Try
reducing the size of either of these files. Removing comments
may help. Or make more memory available.
3) {COMMO} cannot allocate the Scrollback Buffer. Reduce its size
or make more memory available.
_______________________________
Cannot locate command processor
_______________________________
This is an unusual condition. Type "SET" at the DOS prompt and be
sure there is a "COMSPEC=" in the list. If there is, make sure that
COMMAND.COM is in the path specified.
_______________________
Not enough memory
Program file not found
Unable to execute shell
_______________________
A problem was encountered during Shell to DOS or EXEC:
1) There may not be enough memory to execute the command processor
or external program you have specified.
2) The program file you specified in an EXECute function using the
"D" switch cannot be located. Make sure you specify the full
path and filename.
3) Some other system error condition may exist. Make sure that
COMMAND.COM is still available in the "COMSPEC=" path.
-79-
___________________________
Hardware flow control pause
___________________________
Hardware Flow Control (RTS/CTS handshaking) is in effect and the
remote system (or your modem) has requested a pause. Try waiting a
few seconds for the pause to clear. If that fails, try setting
{hfc=auto} in your Setup File. Be sure to restart {COMMO} after
making this change.
_________________________________________
File space full! Delete unnecessary text
_________________________________________
{COMMO} allows about 65,000 bytes when editing any file (the Dialing
Directory and Macro File occupy a common file space). This limit may
be reached when editing any of the files with the Internal Editor. If
this happens you must reduce the size of the file in question. Try
removing comment lines and any other extraneous information.
This message may also be the result of loading a resident program
(TSR) in the Shell to DOS or via the EXEC macro function. Other
causes involve a corruption of DOS parameters and require rebooting.
____________________________
Swap Failure, exiting to DOS
____________________________
This message will appear if {COMMO} cannot be fully restored when
returning from a Swap to Disk. This can result from one of these
conditions:
1) Unable to read the Swap File (file not found or file is
unreadable).
2) Unable to allocate the necessary memory (a TSR may have been
loaded above {COMMO}'s kernel).
_____________________
Dial command too long
_____________________
The dial command is limited to 128 characters.
-80-
________________________
Unable to open file
Unable to open Help File
File not found
Path not found
Too many files
________________________
Check the following:
1) Your "SET COMMO=" command in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file. It may be
specifying the wrong directory.
2) That the path exists where the file should be.
3) That the file itself exists (this won't be the problem if the
file is being created).
4) Too many files may be open. You may need to increase your FILES=
parameter in CONFIG.SYS.
5) The Online Help File must be less than 64K bytes in size.
6) You cannot use an open Capture File for any other purpose.
____________________________________
Capture File Closed, disk is full!
Information not saved, disk is full!
____________________________________
The Capture File and Screen Image File should be edited regularly to
ensure that they are not occupying too much disk space.
-81-
========== Appendix H Table of {COMMO} Key-labels
Key-labels are also macro labels with the added advantage that the macro
can be started by pressing the associated key from the Terminal Screen.
Most "extended" keys may be assigned this way. If the same key-label
appears more than once, the first occurrence will be used. Note that
key-labels are case insensitive. The caret (^) indicates the Ctrl key.
Enhanced keyboard key-labels are listed below.
Key Name Key-label Key Name Key-label
________ _________ ________ _________
Normal-F1 nf1 ... Normal-F10 nf0
Ctrl-F1 cf1 ... Ctrl-F10 cf0
Shift-F1 sf1 ... Shift-F10 sf0
Alt-F1 af1 ... Alt-F10 af0
Alt-A ala ... Alt-Z alz
Alt-1 al1 ... Alt-0 al0
Alt = al= Alt - al-
Escape esc Grey * gr*
Grey - gr- Grey + gr+
Backspace bsp ^Backspace cbs
Tab tab Shift-tab stb
Enter ent ^Enter cen
Home hom End end
PgUp pgu PgDn pgd
Up-Arrow upa Down-Arrow dna
Left-Arrow lfa Right-Arrow rta
Insert ins Delete del
^Home chm ^End cnd
^PgUp cpu ^PgDn cpd
^Right-Arrow cra ^Left-Arrow cla
Keypad-0 kp0 ... Keypad-9 kp9
Keypad-. kp. ^PrtSc cpr
-82-
-----===== Enhanced Keyboard Key-labels
IMPORTANT! To use the following keys you must tell {COMMO} to test for the
enhanced keyboard. The item {tek=yes} must appear in your Setup File.
Normal-F11 nfa Normal-F12 nfb
Ctrl-F11 cfa Ctrl-F12 cfb
Shift-F11 sfa Shift-F12 sfb
Alt-F11 afa Alt-F12 afb
Alt-[ al[ Alt-] al]
Alt-; al; Alt-' al'
Alt-, al< Alt-. al.
Alt-/ al/ Alt-\ al\
Alt-* al* Alt-` al`
Center Key cky
The Center Key is the Keypad 5 with Numlock off.
The keys in the second group may also work with the 83-key keyboard if your
BIOS supports the enhanced keyboard.
-83-
========== Appendix I List of Reserved Variables
---------- USER-DEFINED Reserved Variables
_modini Modem Initialization String
_dialpf Default dialing prefix
_dialsf Default dialing suffix
_dialsr Dialing success response(s)
_dialfr Dialing failure response(s)
_dialir Inter-dial Delay response(s)
_dialrt Dialing response text, available:
(1) after a dialing attempt if _dtc = 1 or 2
(2) in the Inter-dial Delay macro.
_uselog Pathname of Usage Log
_menux Menu display string, x = 1, 2, 3, etc.
_mlabel List of macro labels for pop-up menu
_menter Macro label for Enter key in menu
_mcolor Colors used with pop-up menu: text,border
---------- BUILT-IN Variables
_hom {COMMO} home directory (e.g., c:\commo\, a:\)
_dsk Current disk (e.g., C:)
_dir Current directory (e.g., \upload, \)
_set Filename of Setup File, usually COMMO.SET
_fon Filename of Dialing Directory, usually
COMMO.FON
_mac Filename of default Macro File, usually
COMMO.MAC
_cap Current Capture File pathname
_scr Current Screen Image File pathname
_ffn Find file name (use with FILE function)
_ffs Find file size
_ffd Find file date
_fft Find file time
_err Exit code set by certain functions
_dfc Disk full on capture: 0=no, 1=yes; reset when
Capture File is opened, set when disk is full
_pos Position in string
_len Length of string
_por Current serial port number: 1, 2, etc.
_spe Current serial port speed: 2400, 9600, etc.
_fmt Current serial port data format: 8n1, 7e1,
etc.
_mod Last speed reported by modem
_pad Current serial port address: 03F8, 02E8, etc.
-84-
_irq Current IRQ number: 4, 3, etc.
_nci Number of characters in input buffer (received
and not yet displayed)
_dtc Dialing termination code (available after each
dialing attempt). Values are:
0 = no systems were marked
1 = successful connection
2 = failure response received
3 = timed out
4 = operator intervention
_msn Menu label selection number, from last MENU
function (0 for Enter, 1 to 26 for A to Z,
etc.)
_rem Remainder from last DIVIde
_nam Current System Name (up to 40 chars)
_num Current Phone Number (up to 40 chars)
_pas Current Password String
_ela Elapsed time in minutes:seconds
_dat Full date (format defined in Setup File)
_mon Month, mm
_day Day of the month, dd
_yea Year, yy
_dwn Numeric day of the week: 1=Mon, ... , 7=Sun
_dwt Text day of the week: Mon, Tue, ...
_tim Full time (format defined in Setup File)
_24h 24 hour, hh
_12h 12 hour, hh
_amp Am/pm indicator, xm
_min Minute, mm
_sec Second, ss
_row Current cursor row
_col Current cursor column
-85-
========== Appendix J Macro Functions Listed by Class
---------- Variable manipulation
SETVariable Assign a string to a variable name
INCRement Increase a numeric variable
DECRement Decrease a numeric variable
MULTiply Multiply a numeric variable
DIVIde Divide a numeric variable
INSTring Find a string within a string
SUBString Move a substring to a variable
LENGth Determine the length of a string
---------- Looking for text
AUTO Auto Receive
SETLook Set LOOKfor parameters
LOOKfor Look for string from port
SSLOok Additional string, send variable
CALOok Additional string, call submacro
GOLOok Additional string, go to macro
---------- File Input/Output
ROPEn Open a file for reading
READ Read from a file to a variable
RCLOse Close the read file
WOPEn Open a file for writing
WRITe Write to a file from a variable
WCLOse Close the write file
---------- Dialing/connect/disconnect
SETDial Set dialing timers
DIAL Dialing Directory
DPARms Set dialing default parameters
HANGup Drop DTR to hangup
MARK Mark numbers for dialing
UNMArk Unmark Dialing Directory entries
ABAUd AutoBaud toggle
-86-
---------- Modem control
PARMs Set current terminal parameters
LOCAlecho Local Echo toggle
INITmodem Send modem init string
BREAk Send a Break signal
LIGHts Signal Lights toggle
SIGNal Set state of hardware signals
SPOCtrl Serial port output control
---------- Send/receive data
ASCIiup ASCII Upload
SEND Send a text string
CAPMode Set Capture Mode
CAPTure Capture File Options
SETGet Set GETString parameters
GETString Get a string from the modem
RXMOdem Receive a file using Xmodem
SXMOdem Send a file using Xmodem
RYMOdem Receive a file using Ymodem
SYMOdem Send a file using Ymodem
PASSword Send current password
RTRAn Maintain Receive Translate Table
STRAn Maintain Send Translate Table
VTCUr VT102 cursor key strings
VTPAd VT102 keypad key strings
---------- Testing
COMPare Compare a variable to a string
IFCOndition Test Condition Flag
IFERrorlevel Test Exit Codes
IFEXist Test for existence of file(s)
IFCArrier Test for presence of carrier detect
---------- Macro control
CALL Execute a macro
RETUrn Return from a CALL
PUSHstack Push a location to the macro stack
POPStack Pop from the macro stack
GOTO Transfer control to a label
STOP Stop macro processing
MACLoad Load a new Macro File
PAUSe Pause for interval 1-999 seconds
-87-
HOLD Hold until specified 24 hr time
NOCArrier Set a label to GOTO when carrier is lost
SETEsc Set a label to GOTO on Esc
---------- Video/sound related
CLEAr Clear Screen
CURSor Terminal Screen cursor toggle
DISPlay Display a string to the screen
SCREen Screen Image Save
SPDCtrl Serial port display control
STATusline Status Line on/off toggle
VIDEo Change to an alternate video mode
WINDow Preserve window display
SOUNd Master Sound toggle
ALARm Ring the alarm
BEEP Sound a beep
---------- Miscellaneous
CHATmode Chat Mode toggle
DOORway Doorway Mode toggle
ELAPse Reset the elapsed timer
EDIT Edit a file
EXECute Execute a DOS command
EXIT Exit {COMMO}
FILE Find directory entry information
HELP Online Help topic
INFOrm Display an advisory message
INPUt Input from the keyboard
KEYStuff Put key codes into the keyboard buffer
MACRo Macro Processor window
MENU Create a pop-up macro menu
NOOP No-op function, does nothing
OFFLog Make an {Off} entry in the Usage Log
PRINtlog Print Log toggle
SCROllback Display Scrollback Buffer
SHELl Shell to DOS
TOGGles Set Toggles