ForkZapper is a utility that will erase the data and/or resource fork of a file. Each Mac file can have two (2) forks, a data fork and a resource fork. Typically applications, extensions, cdevs and other “run-able” beasties contain most of their information in the resource fork. Documents created from those “run-able” items usually contain information in the data fork.
OK, But Why Would I Want To “Zap” A Fork?
Because it’s there. Well, OK, maybe some practical examples would help.
• It’s a fast way to erase the contents of a file, with out trashing the file itself.
• Running a “Fat Binary” in a 68K Mac is a waste of space. Zapping
the data fork take the “Native Fat” out of the fat binary.
• Millions of other potential uses that any reasonably talented marketing person could come up with…
Now That I Have Something To “Zap”, How Do I Do It?
Simple. Double click on ForkZapper. Select Zap from the File menu. Navigate to the desired file. From the Pop-Up menu at the bottom of the dialog select which fork (or both) you wish to “zap”. Select Open. Zzzzzzaaaaaappppppp! That’s all, nothing else.
Really?
Well, OK. There is a Drag & Drop interface from the Finder. Simply drag the file(s) to be zapped onto the ForkZapper icon and release. If no keys are held down then the data fork will be zapped. If you hold down the command key when you drop the file(s), the resource fork will be zapped. If you hold down both the command key and the control key while dropping, both forks will be zapped.
That’s It?
Pretty much. The ultra cool, wickedly wizzy “About Box” has all the information on how to get “InTouch” with me if you have problems or questions. ForkZapper will run under System 6.0.4 and later. Naturally, the drag & drop interface requires System 7 or beyond.
WARNING: This product is potentially dangerous to the health of your files. Use it with caution. If you don’t understand what this product does, DON’T USE IT. If you want to learn, use a COPY of a file first. BE CAREFUL! (or was that to strong ;-)
Legal Mumbo-Jumbo
ForkZapper is freeware. Please feel free to distribute it. ForkZapper is not in the public domain, however. All rights on ForkZapper are reserved by the author Matthew E. Axsom, and this document must accompany the software whenever ForkZapper is distributed. It may not be sold commercially (e.g., public domain and shareware disks). Exceptions are that user's groups and on-line services may distribute it as long as any costs are for the actual cost of the service (i.e., connect time or media costs). ForkZapper is provided "As Is" without any warranties, and the author assumes no responsibility for any damage caused by this program.
