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SILICON TIMES REPORT ==================== INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE ============================= from STR Electronic Publishing Inc. March 18, 1994 No. 1012 ====================================================================== Silicon Times Report International Online Magazine Post Office Box 6672 Jacksonville, Florida 32221-6155 R.F. Mariano Publisher-Editor ----------------------------------------- Voice: 1-904-783-3319 10am-4pm EST STR Publishing Support BBS Network System * THE BOUNTY BBS * ITCNet 85:881/253 JAX HUB ~ FNET 350 ~ Nest 90:21/350 904-786-4176 MULTI-NODE 24hrs-7 days 2400-57.6 bps V.32-42 bis 16.8 USR Dual Standard FAX: 904-783-3319 12am-6am EST ----------------------------------------- Fido 1:374/147.3 The Bounty STR Support Central 1-904-786-4176 FNET. 620 : Leif's World ................1-904-573-0734 FNET. 690 : PASTE BBS....................1-206-284-8493 FNET. 489 : Steal Your Face BBS..........1-908-920-7981 MNET - Toad Hall BBS.....................1-617-567-8642 ______________________________________________________________________ > 03/18/94 STR 1012 "The Original * Independent * Online Magazine!" """"""""""""""""" - CPU INDUSTRY REPORT - Dell, 6 new 486s - QUANTUM -> NEW HDs - Lotus Lowers Improv $ - MS Fine Artist - NEW GameBoy DEAL! - Connect News - People Talking - 25% Homes have PC - Mother Goose - INFOCENTRAL - The Old Fishin' Hole -* WPERFECT WINDOWS 6.0a HIGHLIGHTS! *- -* ADOBE & ALDUS TO MERGE! *- -* POWERMAC REFERENCE *- ====================================================================== STReport International Online Magazine The Original * Independent * Online Magazine -* FEATURING WEEKLY *- "Accurate UP-TO-DATE News and Information" Current Events, Original Articles, Tips, Rumors, and Information Hardware - Software - Corporate - R & D - Imports ====================================================================== STReport's BBS - The Bounty BBS, invites all BBS systems, worldwide, to participate in the Fido/PROWL/ITC/USENET/NEST/F-Net Mail Networks. You may also call The Bounty BBS direct @ 1-904-786-4176. Enjoy the wonder and excitement of exchanging all types of useful information relative to c o mputers, worldwide, through the use of excellent International Networking Systems. SysOps, worldwide, are welcome to join the STReport International Conferences. The Fido Node is 1:374/147.3, ITC Node is 85:881/250 Crossnet Code is #34813, and the "Lead Node" is #620. All computer platforms BBS systems are welcome and invited to participate. ====================================================================== CIS ~ GENIE ~ DELPHI ~ BIX ~ PROWL ~ ITC ~ NEST ~ EURONET ~ CIX USENET ~ USPOLNET ~ CLEVELAND FREE-NET ~ INTERNET ~ FNET ~ AOL ====================================================================== COMPUSERVE WILL PRESENT $15.00 WORTH OF COMPLIMENTARY ONLINE TIME to the Readers of; STREPORT INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" "The Original 16/32bit Online Magazine" NEW USERS; SIGN UP TODAY! CALL: 1-800-848-8199 .. Ask for operator 198 You will receive your complimentary time and be online in no time at all! "Enjoy CompuServe's forums; where information is at its very best! """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > From the Editor's Desk "Saying it like it is!" """""""""""""""""""""" Goodness Sakes! Spring is this Sunday.... and lo and behold the NE is getting dumped on again! Bear up my friends! Spring is literally right around the corner. As is Easter. No, I am not trying to be a living calendar, only drawing us closer and closer to Spring Comdex! You cannot fully appreciate the joy of knowing there will be plenty of new software, updated software and other goodies galore unless you are from a platform that literally dried up except for a few, very few, great developers. When one comes from such an arena to the PC and Mac worlds, its like being rescued from the deepest regions of the Sahara Desert and being brought back into the lap of civilization. Spring Comdex promises to deliver the facts on the new P4, P5 and other Pentium oriented product lines along with the advent of the new, Power PC goodies both hardware and software. Yessir, these markets are very much alive and quite well. Elsewhere in this issue, you'll find info on the new WordPerfect 6.0a and all its wonders. Don't miss it you'll be missing a great read. Ralph.... """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STReport's Staff DEDICATED TO SERVING YOU! """""""""""""""" Publisher -Editor """""""""""""""""" Ralph F. Mariano Lloyd E. Pulley, Editor, Current Affairs Section Editors """"""""""""""" PC SECTION AMIGA SECTION MAC SECTION ATARI SECTION ---------- ------------- ----------- ------------- R.D. Stevens R. Niles R. Noak D. P. Jacobson STReport Staff Editors: """"""""""""""""""""""" Dana P. Jacobson Michael Arthur John Deegan Lucien Oppler Brad Martin Judith Hamner John Szczepanik Dan Stidham Joseph Mirando Doyle Helms Frank Sereno John Duckworth Jeff Coe Steve Keipe Guillaume Brasseur Melanie Bell Jay Levy John Donohue Jeff Kovach Marty Mankins Carl Prehn Paul Charchian Contributing Correspondents: """""""""""""""""""""""""""" Tim Holt Norman Boucher Harry Steele Clemens Chin Neil Bradley Eric Jerue Ron Deal Robert Dean Ed Westhusing Glenwood Drake Vernon W. Smith Bruno Puglia Paul Haris Kevin Miller Craig Harris Allen Chang Dominick Fontana IMPORTANT NOTICE """""""""""""""" Please, submit letters to the editor, articles, reviews, etc... via E-Mail to: Compuserve................... 70007,4454 America Online..................STReport Delphi......................... RMARIANO BIX............................ RMARIANO FIDONET..................... 1:347/147.3 FNET........................... NODE 350 ITC NET...................... 85:881/253 NEST........................ 90:21/350.0 GEnie......................... ST-REPORT Internet.............RMARIANO@DELPHI.COM """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > CPU STATUS REPORT LATE BREAKING INDUSTRY-WIDE NEWS """"""""""""""""" IBM/POWER-PC/PC SECTION (I) =========================== Computer Products Update - CPU Report ------------------------ ---------- Weekly Happenings in the Computer World Issue #12 by: Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr. ******* General Computer News ******* ** New Nintendo Product Transforms Game Boy ** Nintendo of America Inc. this week unveiled a new technological ad- vance that will allow millions of video-game enthusiasts to play more than 350 Game Boy cartridges on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (Super NES), displaying them in full color on the television screen for the first time. The new product, called Super Game Boy, links the capa- bilities of a portable video-game system with a home video-game system. It is a Super NES cartridge that contains a Game Boy adapter. When a Game Boy cartridge is inserted into the product, it is transformed from a 2-by-2-inch, black-and-white game to a bright, multicolored image on a big television screen complete with stereophonic sound. The product also allows players to customize colors and designs. Future Game Boy games will be programmed to take advantage of special Super Game Boy capabilities. The first new Game Boy title to capitalize on Super Game Boy's capabilities will be "Donkey Kong," a best seller in arcades. It will be released at the same time as Super Game Boy. Super Game Boy will be available June 6 at a suggested retail price of $59.99. ** Quantum Introduces New Drives ** Quantum Corp. this week announced two early-to-market, high-quality 3.5-inch hard disk drive families designed for the full array of IBM- compatible and Macintosh desktop PCs. The Quantum Maverick and Quantum Lightening drive families are the latest in a line of desktop PC storage products that have garnered a worldwide installed base of more than 12 million units and has made Quantum Corp. the worldwide volume leader in desktop storage products. Quantum Maverick drives offer formatted capacities of 270 and 540 MB, have an average seek time of 14 ms., and support of advanced interface technology including Fast SCSI-2 and Local Bus IDE-AT. Quantum Lightning drives offer three key capacities - 365, 540 and the first two-disk 730MB drive designed for high-end PCs. Performance- matched to Pentium, 80486 DX and PowerPC-based systems, Lightning drives spin at 4,500 RPM and offer an extremely fast internal data rate of 47 megabits-per-second - the fastest rate of all drives in the desktop PC market. Quantum's new Lightning drives premier an important new feature - SCCI Plug-and-Play, that allows system users to automatically configure peripheral devices on SCSI-based systems. This feature eliminates the need to manually adjust jumper settings when adding a device. Another important feature of Quantum's Maverick and Lightning IDE-AT drives is their ability to break the 528MB barrier normally imposed on IDE-AT drives running DOS or Windows. Quantum's drives support both the Logical Block Address (LBA) and Extended Cylinder Head Sector (CHS) addressing methods in overcoming this capacity barrier. Evaluation units of the new drives are currently being shipped to OEMs. Single-unit OEM evaluation pricing is as follows: Quantum Maverick drives Quantum Lightning drives 270MB $199 365MB $249 540MB $299 540MB $329 730MB $399 ** More Than 25% of American Households Now Have PCs ** A new survey by the Software Publishers Association says that more than one out of every four American households, 27%, now owns a personal computer. Two of the reasons given for attracting new buyers in the last two years were falling prices for high performance and multimedia machines. Some interesting facts the survey found: -:- 60 percent of the PC-using households attended or graduated from college, compared with 51% in 1993 and 21% of households in the general population. -:- Ownership among high school dropouts dropped to 2% in the latest survey, from 10% the previous year. -:- Household income levels of PC owners remain high and steady. In both 1993 and 1994, about one quarter of computer households had in- comes over $75,000 (versus 10% of U.S. households), and about half had incomes over $50,000 (versus 25% of U.S. households). ******* General PC News ******* ** AMD to Ship 900,000 AM486 Chips ** After its recent victory in the courts over rival Intel Corp., AMD (Advanced Micro Devices) says it expects to ship 900,000 Am486 micro- processor units in the current quarter. Earlier it predicted it would ship some 700,000 units in the quarter ending March 27. Sources at AMD said they expect their court victory "will further broaden customer acceptance of our Am486 products while encouraging us to redouble efforts for a rapid production ramp under a recently announced foundry agreement with Digital Equipment Corp. to augment our internal production capacity." ** Watcom to Develop for IBM PowerPC ** WATCOM International, a subsidiary of Powersoft Corporation, this week announced its intention to develop a version of the WATCOM 32-bit multi-platform C/C++ development tools for the PowerPC with Workplace OS. This will enable the development of applications for the PowerPC with Workplace OS from a number of host environments, and the use of Workplace OS as a host development system for other target environments. WATCOM intends to deliver the components of its new WATCOM C/C++ 10.0 product on the PowerPC with Workplace OS, including WATCOM's new C++ class browser, advanced GUI debugger, profiler and other tools. Ian McPhee, president of WATCOM, said "The PowerPC performance and multiple execution environments of Workplace OS promise a very attractive environment for our cross-platform compilers and graphical development environment." ** LBMS announces SE/Open for Microsoft Visual Basic ** LBMS Inc., the leading provider of Windows-based client/server CASE and process management tools, this week announced SE/Open for Visual Basic, which will bidirectionally integrate Microsoft's Visual Basic 3.0 with LBMS' application development tool, Systems Engineer 5.1. Visual Basic is a versatile, productive programming system for build- ing custom solutions in Windows. It brings robust client/server capabi- lities and application integration to the desktop with visual forms creation, a large selection of standard and third party custom controls, and an event-driven programming model. SE/Open for Visual Basic will provide developers with a seamless en- vironment for the complete analysis, design and development of both the client and server portions of LAN-based production quality applications. The product's capabilities will include object management, reuse manage- ment, database design, and prototyping management within a common repository. ** DPT Cuts Price of New ISA-to-SCSI Host Adapter ** Distributed Processing Technology (DPT), a leading supplier of high performance SCSI and disk array solutions, this week announced a 14% price reduction for its SmartCache III ISA-to-SCSI host adapter kits, effective immediately. The SmartCache III PM2021 is a 16-bit ISA-to-Fast SCSI host adapter that is fully SCSI-2 command set compatible, features 10Mbytes per second throughput across the SCSI bus, and up to 10Mbytes per second across the ISA bus. SmartCache III adapters are fully compatible with the latest releases of all major operating systems. The new worldwide list price for the SmartCache III Storage Manager Kit model PM2021/90 is $245.00 and model PM2021/95, which includes a floppy controller, is $265.00. ** NexGen Announces Pentium Clone ** Plans for the first clone of Intel Corp.'s Pentium chip have been un- veiled by NexGen Microproducts Inc. Reports say the Nx586 chip is desig- ned to run the same software as the Pentium. The chip runs at 60MHz and 66MHz, which sources say "could create a problem, since Intel just introduced upgraded Pentiums that will run at 100MHz". The 60MHz version will sell for $460 (about $300 less than the equivalent Pentium), while the 66MHz version will sell for $506. The coprocessor will cost $128. Four computer makers -- Tangent Computer Corp., Compu-Tek Interna- tional Inc., Adisys Corp. and Lucky Computer Co. -- have announced they will use the NexGen chip in their machines. ** IBM to Manufacture Modular Computer ** TelePad Corp. this week announced that IBM will manufacture the new TelePad 3, a combination multimedia desktop, notebook and tablet computer that can be customized for the needs of specific field workers. The TelePad 3 features a modular device architecture developed by TelePad. Three removable modules accommodate hard disks, CD-ROM drives, video cameras, global positioning systems and a variety of mobile communications options. ** Dell Offers Six New '486 Units ** Six new systems based on Intel Corp.'s 486 processors with prices starting at $1,499 have been unveiled by Dell Computer Corp. The six, designed for entry-level to mid-range computing, are encompassed in three new product lines, including NetPlex, Dell Dimension and OptiPlex. The central processors range from a 25MHz SX to the top-end 66MHz DX2. ** Microsoft 'Fine Artist' Debuts ** Microsoft Corp. introduced Fine Artist, Version 1.0, a creative arts program for children ages 8 and up that combines painting, drawing and multimedia art projects. Reports say that Fine Artist can be used with Creative Writer, to provide an electronic environment that encourages creativity. The products take full advantage of multimedia computing in a disk- ette format with integration of text, high-quality graphics, sound and animation to provide an enriching experience for children. Retail price is $64.95. ** DEC Unveils Pentium Systems ** Three new systems in its DECpc XL server line and five new low-cost Pentium-based PCs have been unveiled this week in Hanover, Germany by Digital Equipment Corp. ** Lotus Cuts Improv Price ** Lotus Development Corp. has cut the price of its next- generation Improv 2.1 for Windows spreadsheet program from $495 to $129. Designed to perform multidimensional data analysis, Improv provides a multidimensional structure, dynamic views, and English- language formulas. ******* General Mac News ******* ** Power Mac Introduced ** Apple Computer Inc.'s long-awaited Power Macintosh -- built around the PowerPC 601 RISC chip it developed with IBM and Motorola Inc. -- is being introduced this week, ranging in price from about $2,100 to more than $6,000. The Power Mac's most touted feature is its capability to run programs for Mac, MS-DOS and Microsoft Corp.'s Windows environments. Sources quote analysts as saying Apple's future is at stake here. "I think it's a fair statement," adds Apple Vice President Ian W. Diery, who is in charge of Apple's personal computer division, "but I'd rather phrase it a different way: If we don't innovate, we're dead." Diery said Apple hopes to sell a million Power Macs in the first year, about a third of the company's projected sales of $8 billion. Noting this is "an unusually ambitious target for a machine with a new chip," Ortiz says analysts think Apple has little choice but to proceed with PowerPC. It is felt that Apple lost a key advantage when Microsoft Corp.'s Windows software for IBM-compatible PCs made those machines as easy to use as a Macintosh. No longer could Apple charge higher prices than the competition. Three Power Macintosh models are being released initially: -:- The 6100/60 which, with a basic monitor and keyboard, will retail for around $2,100. -:- 7100/66, priced at $3,200. -:- 8100/80, at $4,500. Croft says Apple also is announcing a range of logic board and proc- essor upgrades, starting at $699, that will allow users of many current Macintosh systems to take advantage of PowerPC technology. Reports say that the PowerPC has been demonstrated in a Mac running at 80MHz, but that Apple estimates emulated programs will run at 25MHz to 33MHz, the speed of Intel Corp.'s 486 and high-end 386 microchips. Meanwhile, Apple said 40 to 80 programs written specifically for the PowerPC soon will be available and it hopes between 200 and 300 will be ready by this summer. ** Apple Forecast to Ship 700,000 PowerPC Macs by End of Year ** According to market research firm, Dataquest Inc., Apple Computer Inc. will likely ship 700,000 of its soon-to-be-released PowerPC-based Macintosh computers by year's end. The new PowerPC-based Macintoshes have a low entry price, offer better price/performance value than workstations, and the high-end models are competitive with the 90-MHz Pentium desktop computers announced this week. ** Which is Faster? ** In independent Macworld magazine tests, Apple Computer's new Power Macintoshes beat Pentium-based personal computers. [Macworld magazine is the leading authority on Macintosh computing and is in no way affiliated with Apple.] Tests published in the magazine's May issue show that all three Power PC-based Mac models outperform PCs that use Intel's Pentium chip. To realize that performance, the Power Macs must use new versions of Mac- intosh software written especially for the PowerPC, a chip developed to challenge Intel's 80486 and Pentium chips. Macworld Lab test prototypes of all three Power Macs -- the 6100/60, 7100/66, and 8100/80 -- with prototype PowerPC software, against a Compaq Computer Corp. Deskpro 5/60M, which uses Intel's 60MHz Pentium chip and is recommended by Intel as a top-notch performer. The Compaq surpassed the performance of all earlier Macs, but achie- ved only about 93% of the speed of the slowest Power Macintosh (the 6100/60, which uses a 60MHz PowerPC 601 chip) and 67% of the speed of the fastest Power Mac (the 8100/80, which uses an 80MHz chip). The Macworld Lab tests use standard business programs to provide a realistic indication of performance. "The introduction of Macintoshes based on the PowerPC microprocessor is a breakthrough in the evolution of personal computers," said Adrian Mello, Macworld's editor-in-chief. Because of strong interest among Mac owners in maintaining the option of Microsoft Windows compatibility, Macworld Lab also gauged Windows compatibility for the Power Macs. On a mid-range Power Macintosh using Insignia Solutions' SoftWindows program, Macworld Lab found that Windows performance was equivalent to that of an entry-level business PC. Windows compatibility was strong for most programs. But owners of many earlier Macs may want to delay Power Mac purchases until the software they rely on is available in PowerPC format. Macworld Lab found that Power Macintoshes run almost all software designed for older Macs, but with performance often falling well below that of the fastest Macintoshes produced before the new Power Macs. Macworld Lab tests show that PowerPC versions of the same software, when they become available, should boost performance 200 to 600% over the fastest previous Macs. ** Radius' Products to be Upgraded ** Radius Inc this week announced that its color and monochrome displays have been or will be upgraded to include support for all of Apple Computer's new Power Macintosh computers. Power Macintosh software upgrades for Radius display products are provided free of charge via Radius' Internet library (FTP.Radius.Com), Bulletin Board Service (408/954-1689) and such conventional on-line services as AppleLink, CompuServe, and America On-line. Users can also call Radius Customer Service at 408/434-1012. Radius Inc. also confirmed that its popular lines of QuickDraw grap- hics accelerator products have been upgraded to include support for all of Apple Computer's new Power Macintosh systems - including the 6100, 7100 and 8100 models. ** MicroNet Supports PowerPC Mac ** MicroNet Technology Inc. is ready to support Apple Computer's PowerPC Macintosh products with new versions of its SCSI Utilities 6.2.1 and hardware enhancements. The utilities give PowerPC users across-the-board compatibility with hard disk drives, optical drives, removable cartridge drives, CD-ROMs and tape devices. MicroNet also announced a new version of its Raven Disk Array product to support Apple's next generation Macintosh systems. ** Apple to Offer Mac Environment for HP Workstations ** Hewlett-Packard Co. and Apple Computer Inc. this week announced an agreement under which Apple will make its Macintosh Application Environment (MAE) available to HP 9000 Series 700 workstation users. MAE will give HP workstation users the ability to run most Macintosh applications alongside their UNIX applications. MAE is a software implementation of the Macintosh environment that runs in a window on Series 700 workstations. Applications will have the same "look and feel" and functionality as that of the same applications running on a Macintosh. With MAE, Series 700 users will be able to run many Macintosh applications without modification. ** Microsoft Developing Power Mac Software ** Microsoft Corp. this week announced new versions of Microsoft Office business productivity applications are under development for the Power Macintosh computer, a new RISC-based Mac system introduced this week by Apple Computer Inc. ** Apple Announces "Second Generation Newton" ** Apple has announced the "second generation" of the Newton, along with an upgrade program for original MessagePad owners, new "business appli- cations" for the Newton, and enhanced editions of the Newton Toolkit and Newton Connection software. The upgraded Newton is available in two versions: The Newton MessagePad 110, which ships this week at a price of $599, features a protective lid, round telescopic pen, and narrower, sleeker form factor, along with three times the amount of memory available for data storage, longer battery life, a "fast recharge" feature, improved handwriting recognition, and easier infrared transfers. The Newton MessagePad 100, slated for release in April for $499, of- fers the same ROM (read only memory)-based software features, but in the form factor of the original Newton MessagePad. Owners of the original MessagePad who wish to upgrade to the new software functionality will be able to do so starting in April for $99. ** Apple Cuts High-End Powerbook Prices ** Apple Computer has again announced price cuts on its popular line of its Powerbook notebook computers. The reductions of between nine and 14% are mostly in the company's high-end monochrome Powerbooks and in both color and monochrome models of the Powerbook Duo product line. ** Apple's New Quadra 610 Runs MS-DOS/Windows Apps ** Apple has announced that shipments of its new Macintosh Quadra 610 DOS Compatible system with MS-DOS- and Windows-compatibility have begun. The system uses both a Motorola 25 megahertz (MHz) 68LC040, and an Intel 25MHz 486SX microprocessor which runs DOS and Windows-based software. The system comes preinstalled with Microsoft's MS-DOS 6.2 operating system. The Quadra's dual processor approach reportedly allows users to work in both the Macintosh and DOS environments at the same time. Apple claims that, because the dual processors will work independen- tly, users will be able to run Macintosh and DOS or Windows applications in tandem, and even "cut and paste" information between the two environ- ments. However an Apple spokesperson said hat the user cannot view a Macintosh application and a Windows application in separate windows on the same screen at the same time. To see them both simultaneously you need two monitors. You can cut and paste between a Mac application and a Windows application though. As a result, there is dual monitor support, which lets the user add a second display monitor without purchasing an additional video card. The same hard drive runs Macintosh, MS-DOS or Windows applications. The hard disk is not partitioned into a DOS part and a Mac part. All the files are on the same hard disk together. The Macintosh Quadra 610 DOS Compatible personal computer is avail- able, priced at $1,579 which includes 8 megabytes (MB) of RAM, a 160MB hard drive and on-board Ethernet configuration. Users can also buy the DOS Compatibility Card for Macintosh separately, designed for both the Macintosh Quadra 610 and Macintosh Centris 610, priced at $399. The Macintosh Quadra features two system cards: the first has the 68LC040 to power the Macintosh environment; the second contains the 486SX that runs DOS and Windows applications. _______________________________________________ > CONNECT STR InfoFile Telecomm Magazine, March/April issue """""""""""""""""""" CONNECT Magazine Table of Contents ================================== Vol 2 No 2 March/April 1994 FEATURES Newspapers in the Electronic Age by David Noak Newspapers have found new life in the electronic world. This article looks at a number of newspapers making the move to the digital marketplace. Confessions of a Conference Junkie by Annina Anton A genuine real-time conferencing addict explains what it is like to be hooked on chat. How to Choose an Online Service by Rich Hower Want to get online but are baffled by the many choices available to you? This article helps you decide which online services are best for you. Teaching the Old Dog by James Rock An "old dog" who recently entered the world of telecomputing tells how he's found a new online home, and learned a few new tricks, on the Cyberia BBS in Pennsylvania. DC NET v2.1 -- An Online Window to Creativity by Dan Dearmond Durand Communication's DC NET Online Photographic Database software is the focus of this in-depth review. A Second Look at DC NET by Jeff Worchester Another DC NET user reviews Durand's online database allowing callers to view text and graphics together online. Accessing the Online World of Electronic Bulletin Boards by Russell Frey The author of PowerBBS for Windows takes you through the ABCs of the BBSing world, discusses BBSes and networking, and points you to a number of excellent BBSes that are just a connection away. Turn Your PC into a Usenet Site by Edward Branley This article shows you how to get your IBM PC or compatible system connected to the "Outernet," allowing Usenet newsgroups and Internet mail to be accessed directly on your PC. Highlights of COMDEX/Fall '93 by Steve Richardson After attending the Fall COMDEX show in Las Vegas, the author shares his impressions of what was offered for telecomputer users. Commworks for Windows by Jim Mallory The author reviews the new Windows-based communications package from Traveling Software, makers of LapLink and Remote Access. COLUMNS ------- The Inside Line Editorial Staff Columnist Michael A. Banks points out online "hang-outs" for writers of books and publications, as well as other topics. Eye on America Online Columnist Julia Wilkinson takes us through the areas on AOL supporting palmtops and Personal Data Assistants (PDAs) like the Apple Newton MessagePad and Casio Zoomer. Connecting with Compuserve Your CompuServe guide, columnist Jim Ness, spotlights some of the service's ever-expanding European offerings. Telecomputing the DELPHI Way DELPHI's Internet SIG and Custom Forums SIG are revisited by Columnist Dick Evans, who also discusses his recent in-person tour of the DELPHI facility. GEnie's Treasures Columnist Jim Mallory takes us to the Medical RoundTable on GEnie and shows why this RT may be the cure for what ails you. The Internet Gateway Using the Internet Gopher to its fullest potential, and thereby saving you valuable time and resources, is the focus of this issue's offering from Columnist Paul Gilster. Clear to Send The MicroLink shareware Windows terminal program from MicroWerks is reviewed by PC Columnist Victor Volkman. Dial M for Macintosh Macintosh Columnist Ross Scott Rubin talks about Apple's latest foray into the modem/serial communications market with the GeoPort. Staying Connected for about a Pound Palmtop Columnist Marty Mankins shows how to stay in touch via fax with your palmtop or PDA. CONNECT magazine is available at the following magazine outlets: B.Dalton Bookseller, Bookstop, Bookstar, Barnes & Noble, Doubleday, Scribner's, Crown Books, Tower Books, Little Professor, Lichtman's News and Books, Coles Book Stores, CompUSA, Computer City and Software Etc. chains, as well as other chains and independent newsstands, book stores and computer dealers in the U.S. and Canada. Call (313) 973-8825 to find the magazine dealer nearest you who carries CONNECT. CONNECT is a bi-monthly magazine covering the major commercial online services (such as America Online, BIX, CompuServe, DELPHI, GEnie and Prodigy), the Internet, and bulletin board system networks (such as Fidonet, WWIVnet, and GlobalNet). The magazine is platform-independent, with interesting columns focusing on PC-specific (DOS and Windows), Macintosh-oriented, and Palmtop/PDA-related topics. __________________________________________ > ALDUS & ADOBE TO MERGE! STR FOCUS! """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" ADOBE SYSTEMS AND ALDUS CORP. ============================= ANNOUNCE AGREEMENT TO MERGE MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 15, 1994--Adobe Systems Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) and ALDUS Corp. (NASDAQ:ALDC) today announced a definitive agreement to merge through an exchange of common stock of the two companies, creating a new half-billion dollar leader in software for authoring and publishing electronic information. Under the agreement, which has been approved by the boards of directors of both companies, Adobe will exchange 1.15 shares of its c o mmon stock for each share of ALDUS common stock. Based on approximately 13.8 million shares outstanding of ALDUS stock and the current Adobe stock price, the transaction will have a value of approximately $525 million. The merger is intended to qualify as a tax-free reorganization and a "pooling of interests" for and financial purposes. "We are committed to achieving the cost savings necessary to make this transaction non-dilutive in the first full year of the combined operations," said John Warnock, chairman and chief executive officer, Adobe Systems Inc. The merger will be considered for approval by shareholders of both companies at separate meetings anticipated in July 1994 with the merger to be effective immediately following shareholders approval. Paul Brainerd, president, founder and major shareholder in ALDUS has agreed to vote his shares in favor of the merger and has given Adobe an irrevocable proxy for all of his ALDUS shares in connection with such vote. In addition, ALDUS and Adobe have each agreed to the payment of a break-up fee if under certain circumstances the transaction should not be completed. The merger is subject to numerous conditions. "We believe our two companies, each with a rich history of inventing different aspects of the electronic publishing revolution, are simply much stronger together -- both technologically and financially -- than we would be by remaining separate," said Warnock. "Combined, the two companies offer products that address every aspect of information authoring and representation, and in the future, can draw from that expertise to pioneer the process and provide the tools required to help our customers move from today's paper-based information infrastructure to tomorrow's digital world." "The challenges of the competitive landscape and the breadth of new market opportunities offered by the digital revolution can be much more effectively met by merging our companies than by either company individually," said Chuck Geschke, president and COO, Adobe Systems Inc. "The combined company offers tremendous opportunity for more competitive marketing, higher levels of customer service and better responsiveness to customers' evolving needs." Brainerd said the merger offers both short-and long-term benefits because of the broad array and depth of products that the companies can n o w market and distribute together, as well as the tremendous technological synergy that exists between the two companies for the development of future products. "Together, Adobe and ALDUS can generate tremendous momentum to meet customer requirements. The new company will have the largest,most respected full bodied typeface library, the world's top-selling page layout solution, and the best-of-breed illustration, photo-editing, presentation, image retrieval and full video-production applications. These technologies are the foundation for today's most powerful publishing and authoring solutions and tomorrow's tools for creating and distributing information digitally." Brainerd, Warnock and Geschke are widely recognized in the software industry for having created the desktop printing (DTP) and electronic publishing phenomena, which has grown into a $2 billion industry since the early 1980s. Adobe, founded in 1982, provided the first open standard for representing the printed document, PostScript and the technology to support that standard. Brainerd, who founded ALDUS in 1984, coined the term "desktop publishing" and created the top selling PageMaker software system that allows visually-rich documents to be created on personal computers. Under terms of the merger agreement, Warnock, 53, will become chairman and CEO of the new company with headquarters in Mountain View. Geschke, 54, president of Adobe, will retain the same position in the new company. Brainerd, 46, and another current member of ALDUS' board, will become members of the board of directors of the new company once the merger is complete. The structure of the merged company will consist of operating divisions including Systems Products, Application Products, and Consumer Products. Facilities will be maintained in both Mountain View and Seattle. Current plans call for the new company tocontinue to market and support all major products of both companies. Futurecorporate identity plans will be determined when the merger is final. Each company has sales and distribution operations outside of the United States. In Europe, Adobe is headquartered in Amsterdam and ALDUS is based in Edinburgh. Both ALDUS and Adobe maintain Pacific Rim operations in Tokyo and other major cities. On a combined basis, the companies had revenues last year of $520 million and more than 2,100 employees located throughout the world. For fiscal 1993, Adobe reported revenues of $313 million and net income of $57 million, while ALDUS reported total revenues of approximately $207 million and net income of $9.5 million. Adobe has approximately 45.7 million shares outstanding, and ALDUS has approximately 13.8 million shares outstanding. Adobe develops, markets and supports computer software products and technologies that enable users to create, display, print and communicate electronic documents and manipulate digital content to moving pictures and sound. The company licenses its technology to major computer and publishing suppliers, and markets a line of type and application software products worldwide. A L D US creates computer software solutions that help people throughout the world effectively communicate information and ideas. The company focuses on three main lines of business: applications for the professional publishing, prepress and video markets; applications for the consumer market; and applications for the emerging interactive publishing market. CONTACT: Adobe Systems Inc. Linda Prosser, 415/962-3840 ____________________________________________ > WORDPERFECT CORP. STR Spotlight "THE COMPANY WITH USERS IN MIND!" """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""" WORDPERFECT - ONWARD & UPWARD! ============================== WORDPERFECT FOR WINDOWS ----------------------- by R. F. Mariano A few weeks ago, this author was accused of having made mention of WordPerfect for Windows being the "Premier" DTP solution for most small business operations. After some thought about this, I concluded I was wrong. WordPerfect for Windows is the ideal DTP solution for any business; large, small or whatever. Of course WPWin is not the ultimate in DTP solutions ..yet. I wouldn't be surprised though.. if one day it became such. In the following article, you'll find some of the newest features introduced to WPWin6 in the latest product update. (another fine customer support practice WPCorp. is well known for). In any case, for everyday DTP application in any size business along with the increased usage of WPWin6.0a in smaller businesses for a wider variety of applications, WPWin is definitely a very wise and prudent investment no business should be without. WordPerfect for Windows is truly a powerful and equally excellent DeskTop Publishing Solution that includes the world's most powerful word processor at no extra charge. Cross-platform file compatibility is a breeze with 6.0a, we regularly receive files in .wri, .asc, .doc, .wp3 (mac), and many other saved file formats. So many its too numerous to mention here and.. each and every one of them are loaded right in without any hassles. A large percentage of software publishers worldwide, have awakened literally, "seen the light", when it comes to file sharing. Alas.. there are still those who insist upon operating in the dark ages with propietary file formats. They'll soon be nothing more than rather "not so fond" memories. WORDPERFECT FOR WINDOWS 6.0 =========================== WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows offers the most comprehensive set of tools to easily and automatically create any kind of document: powerful word processing, drawing, charting, spreadsheet functionality within tables, direct spreadsheet and database import, and direct integration with other Windows applications. "With WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows, users may never need to leave their word processor," said Todd Titensor, product marketing director for WordPerfect for Windows at WordPerfect Corporation. "No other word processor offers the power and breadth of features with such an accessible interface." With this version, WordPerfect Corporation introduces an intelligent and customizable interface, innovations in ease of use, and features that make the most of the Windows environment. INTELLIGENT AND CUSTOMIZABLE INTERFACE -------------------------------------- QUICKMENUS. Working in Windows is easier with context-sensitive QuickMenus that are accessed by clicking the right mouse button virtually anywhere in WordPerfect. For example, clicking the right mouse button anywhere in a document presents a QuickMenu to change fonts, spell check or center text, while clicking in the left margin presents a menu to select text, change margins or addcomments to a document. QuickMenus vary according to location and text selected. FEATURE BARS. Feature Bars automatically appear for more than 20 different tasks giving users additional feature-specific options. For example, when working with graphics, the Graphics Feature Bar appears with buttons to add a caption, change position and size, or add borders and fill patterns. "Today's word processing users demand more than a checklist of editing tools," said Titensor. "Users want intelligent tools, such as QuickMenus and Feature Bars, that automatically anticipate their tasks." BUTTON BARS. The WordPerfect Button Bar is the most versatile interface tool in any Windows product. Users can place any WordPerfect feature, function or macro on a Button Bar for quick access, as well as any other Windows application. COMPLETE CUSTOMIZATION. To make the product more applicable to individual users, every aspect of the interface can be completely customized: Button Bar, Power Bar, status bar, menus, and keyboards. INNOVATIONS IN EASE OF USE -------------------------- TEMPLATES. Templates simplify the creation of professional- looking documents by giving users pre-created documents. WordPerfect 6.0 ships with more than 70 ExpressDocs, pre-created templates for common forms, fax sheets, memos, newsletters, and more. ExpressDocs are more than customized documents; they are interactive and prompt users for information such as the name and fax number on a fax cover sheet. Users can also edit these templates or create their own with customized Button Bars, menus, styles and macros. COACHES. Like a personal instructor, a Coach prompts a user through a variety of common tasks with step-by-step instructions. Coaches are written with WordPerfect's macro language so users can write their own to add to the Help menu. PREVIEW WINDOWS. Preview windows in many dialog boxes let users see how changes in a document--such as columns, margins, and line spacing--will look before making them. ONLINE TUTORIALS AND IMPROVED HELP. To lessen a user's dependence on printed documentation, a variety of online tutorials are available. Help is also more visual and intuitive with context-sensitive icons. For example, Help for the Power Bar actually displays the Power Bar so users can click any icon for help. A non-scrolling region at the top of the Help screen keeps the topic constantly in view, as well as related Help terms. EASIEST TRANSITION FOR WORDPERFECT DOS USERS -------------------------------------------- FILE COMPATIBILITY. WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows gives WordPerfect DOS users the easiest transition to Windows with feature and file compatibility. WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows seamlessly imports WordPerfect 5.1 DOS files. In addition, WordPerfect 6.0 for DOS and WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows share the same file format so no conversion is necessary between the two products. WORDPERFECT DOS TEMPLATES. Users can select a WordPerfect 5.1 or 6.0 for DOS template that will change the interface to look and feel like WordPerfect for DOS. KEYSTROKES. WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows includes a WPDOS keyboard layout if users want to maintain familiar WordPerfect DOS keystrokes. MACRO CONVERSIONS. WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows provides macro conversions for WordPerfect DOS macros. Users can also write macros that will work in both WordPerfect 6.0 for DOS and WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows. "No one moves DOS users to Windows better than WordPerfect," said Titensor. "Although other products may claim to imitate WordPerfect, WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows offers the best compatibility with WordPerfect files, macros and keystrokes, as well as cross-platform compatibility." MAKING THE MOST OF WINDOWS -------------------------- WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows takes advantage of the Windows environment more than any other Windows word processor. PROGRAM LAUNCHING. Any Windows program or file can be placed on a Button Bar for quick access from within WordPerfect. For example, a user could drag the program file for Quattro Pro from the Windows File Manager to a Button Bar and then be able to launch Quattro Pro while working in WordPerfect. Or a user could place a Microsoft Excel file on a Button Bar and with a click of a button launch Excel and load the file. DIRECT SPREADSHEET AND DATABASE IMPORT. Spreadsheet and database information can be directly imported into WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows. All leading spreadsheet formats and a variety of database formats such as Paradox, dBase, Oracle and popular SQL servers are supported. Users can perform queries on database files to extract only the needed information. Spreadsheets and databases can also be linked via Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE) or Object Linking and Embedding (OLE). FILE MANAGEMENT. Users now have the power of the WordPerfect File Manager available right from the Open File dialog box. With the File Options button, users can copy, move, rename, delete, print and change file attributes, as well as create and rename directories. Files can be displayed and sorted by filename, extension, size, date/time, and descriptive name and type. WORDPERFECT DRAW. WordPerfect Draw contains the sophisticated drawing and charting tools from WordPerfect Presentations including BEZIER CURVES and the ability to CONTOUR TEXT on a curve. The charting module lets users turn table and spreadsheet data into a variety of charts: 3-D, bar, line, area, hi-lo, pie, and exploded pie charts. WordPerfect Draw works through OLE and is easily accessed by double-clicking any chart or graphic image. WordPerfect Draw also supports the TWAIN standard for direct access to scanners so users can easily scan any image into a document. OTHER FEATURES -------------- SPREADSHEET IN TABLES. WordPerfect is the only Windows word processor to include advanced spreadsheet capabilities. The Tables feature contains nearly 100 built-in formulas, numerical cell formatting, automatic calculation, data fills, floating cells and named ranges. TEXTART. Co-developed with Bitstream Inc., TextArt lets users instantly create special effects with type using shapes, colors, fills and shadows. QUICKFINDER. The QuickFinder rivals standalone packages with some of the fastest indexing and text retrieval in the industry. Users can index directories or groups of files and perform nearly instantaneous searches. GRAMMATIK 5. The most popular grammar checker is now fully integrated into WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows. Grammatik 5 is published by WordPerfect Corporation's award-winning Consumer Products Division. BORDERS. WordPerfect 6.0 ships with more predefined and customizable border styles and fill patterns than any other word processor. Borders can be used for paragraphs, pages, columns, tables, table cells and graphic images. WORDPERFECT FOCUS ON USABILITY ------------------------------ WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows was completely designed and developed around usability studies conducted in WordPerfect Corporation's state-of-the-art Usability Center. Nearly every feature in the product went through extensive usability testing to ensure that this product would be the easiest Windows word processor to learn and use. More than 1,000 users participated in usability studies; participants were chosen according to skill level, experience with other graphical environments, and experience with particular word processing tasks. WordPerfect Corporation also invited representatives from accounting, legal, education and business accounts to attend a week-long conference at the Usability Center. Participants brought their own work and were asked to accomplish their regular tasks using WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows. They had daily contact with developers to offer suggestions for improvements and changes. In addition to improvements from usability testing, more than 653 unique enhancements have been added to WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows, representing nearly 12,000 customer requests. INTERNATIONAL VERSIONS ---------------------- WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows is available in the following languages: English-UK, English-OZ, English-Canada, Dutch, Finnish, French, French-National, French-Canada, German-National, German-Swiss, Italian, Norwegian, Spanish, Swedish, Danish and Portuguese-National. EASY MOVE. With the flexible Easy Move program, WordPerfect 6.0 for DOS users may become licensed to run WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows free of charge by calling the Easy Move Hotline at (800) 228-5040. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS ------------------- WordPerfect 6.0 for Windows requires a 386 machine or higher, a VGA monitor, at least 4M (preferably 6M) RAM and Microsoft Windows 3.1. The product also ships on CD-ROM with online documentation in a Folio VIEWS Infobase. WORDPERFECT FOR WINDOWS ======================= 6.0a INTERIM RELEASE INFORMATION Executive Summary ----------------- WordPerfect Corporation has always had a policy of responding to customer needs between major product upgrades with interim releases. In keeping with this customer-oriented focus, WordPerfect will ship an interim release of WordPerfect for Windows, version 6.0a, in March 1994. The four major objectives for WordPerfect 6.0a are reliability, speed, ease of use and transition tools. WordPerfect 6.0a for Windows will be available free of charge to all registered users of WPWin 6.0 upon request. If users have not registered their software, WordPerfect representatives can register them when they call (800) 321-4566. Enhancements: ------------- * SPEED-Speed improvements have been made in the following areas: basic formatting, scrolling, printing, graphics handling, table manipulation and editing, importing 5.x documents, generate, document compare, outline, launching WPDraw, automation of ExpressDocs Templates and opening large documents. * RELIABILITY-Many changes have been made to improve the overall reliability of the product. Every effort was made to address the issues raised by our customers. * PRINTING-With the Windows or WordPerfect (*.PRS) printer drivers, the printing of tables, borders, and bitmap graphics is much faster. In addition, with WordPerfect-supplied Postscript and Hewlett Packard printer drivers, WPWin 6.0 printed ATM and TrueType fonts as graphics, which caused large output file sizes and long total print times. WPWin 6.0a now downloads ATM and TrueType fonts to these printers, improving overall printing speed. * INTEGRATION-WPWin 6.0a now works better under Windows NT and OS/2, including seamless integration with the OS/2 Advanced Workplace Shell. The OS/2 Integration Tools Disk is available separately by calling (800) 321-4566. * CONVERSION OF FONTS-In WPWin 6.0, converting WordPerfect 5.x documents to the WordPerfect 6.0 format would sometimes result in fonts not converting correctly. Fonts will now convert correctly if the same printer is selected in WP 5.x and WPWin 6.0a. In addition, round-trip compatibility from 6.0 to 5.2 and back to a 6.0 format will result in accurate font matching. * FONTS-The last four fonts used are now displayed at the top of the font list, accessed by clicking the font button on the Power Bar. This is similar to the existing capability to display the names of the four most recently used files on the Files pull-down menu. * GRAPHICS-You can now easily save a graphic as a WPG, PCX, TIFF, and BMP file from within WPWin 6.0a by selecting the graphic and choosing Save As from the File menu. * FULL WYSIWYG DISPLAY-Character widths are now displayed more accurately on screen, resulting in a truer graphical representation of fonts. * WPDRAW-With some scanners, the error message "Scan Operation Failed..." would appear and prevent an image from scanning directly into WPDraw. This has now been corrected. * 256 COLOR DRIVER-If a problem is detected with a 256 color driver, WPWin 6.0a will advise you to add a /fl startup switch (for example, c:\wpwin60\wpwin.exe /fl) to the command line under Properties for the WPWin 6.0a icon. This will eliminate known problems with certain video drivers. * DDEML.DLL-We are aware of conflicts with a Windows file, DDEML.DLL, dated 4/22/92. The correct version of this file should be found in the System directory (c:\window\system). If the version of this file (DDEML.DLL, 4/22/92) is found in the Windows directory, and the correct version is found in the Windows System directory, the file will be automatically deleted from the Windows directory. Additions: ---------- * QUICKCORRECT-This feature automatically replaces errors in mistyped or misspelled words. For instance, if you accidentally type adn, it is automatically replaced with and as soon as you press the space bar or another word delimiter (comma, period, semi-colon, etc.). QuickCorrect can automatically fix hundreds of commonly mistyped or misspelled words as you type. QuickCorrect can also automatically expand abbreviations on the fly. For example, you could type wpc and have WordPerfect Corporation appear as you press the space bar. QuickCorrect will also fix two initial caps such as WOrdPerfect. * QUICKSELECT-WordPerfect 6.0a understands that you need the ability to select complete words, sentences, and paragraphs as well as individual letters. QuickSelect gives you the flexibility to select precisely the text you need. Click twice, holding the mouse down the second time, then drag to select word by word. Click three times and drag to select sentence by sentence, and click four times and drag to select paragraph by paragraph. In addition, WordPerfect 6.0 has always let you click in the left margin to select a sentence,and double click to select a paragraph, or use the right mouse button in the left margin for more QuickSelect options. * QUICKSTART-Coach When you first launch WordPerfect 6.0a, an interactive QuickStart Coach appears to give you an overview of the product. This will assist WordPerfect for DOS users, as well as users of other word processors such as Microsoft Word and Ami Pro as they make the transition to WordPerfect for Windows. * TRANSITION ADVISOR-Accessed from the Help menu, the Transition Advisor helps WordPerfect DOS users make a smooth transition to Windows. The Transition Advisor displays keystrokes and commands from WordPerfect 5.1 for DOS and then shows how to perform the equivalent tasks in WordPerfect 6.0a for Windows. Also available is a WordPerfect 5.1 for DOS keyboard that retains familiar keystrokes as you work. * EXPRESSDOCS TEMPLATES-WPWin 6.0a will ship with a WPLite template which provides a scaled-down menu and feature list. WPWin 6.0a will include several other templates: WPAmiPro, business card creation, workgroup, pleading, term paper, and an additional form letter template. * PLEADING TEMPLATE-To answer requests from the legal community, a pleading macro (PLEADING.WCM) and a pleading template (PLEADING.WPT) will ship with WPWin 6.0a. This automated template guides you through creating a pleading document. * SAVE-A "fail safe" save option will now save the document twice, check the file date/time, and then report any possible problems. * UNINSTALL-The setup program includes an Uninstall facility which allows for a standard or custom uninstall of WPWin 6.0a. Improvements have also been made to the installation routine. * PARAGRAPH NUMBERS-Paragraph numbering is now equivalent to the functionality found in WPWin 5.2 and is part of the Bullet and Numbers feature. * TABLES-You can now save table data to the clipboard with tabs that allow you to read data into a spreadsheet or save it as an ASCII file. In addition, you can save table data to a Quattro Pro format. * IMPORT/EXPORT-A conversion for Professional Write files has been added, as well as ODBC support, which provides direct support for Microsoft Access and Excel 5.0. * NEW BUTTON BARS-Three new Button Bars have been added to WPWin 6.0a: Design Tools, Utilities, and Legal. * NETWORK USERS-WPWin 6.0a includes UNC (universal naming convention) support as well as shareable paper size forms for Windows drivers. * ENCRYPTION-Password protection has been improved, with support for both the old and new formats for compatibility with existing WPWin users and documents, as well as "case-sensitive" password protection. WordPerfect Corporation (WPCorp) has always had a policy of responding to customer needs between major product upgrades. The mechanism for this response is typically updated software in the form of interim releases. In keeping with this customer-oriented focus, WPCorp will make available an interim release of WordPerfect for Windows, version 6.0a, in March 1994. WPWin 6.0a is an example of our commitment to better serve our customers. WPCorp will send WPWin 6.0a free of charge to all REGISTERED USERS of WPWin 6.0 upon request. In addition, users who call WordPerfect Customer Support and report a problem that has been resolved in WPWin 6.0a will receive the interim release free of charge. If the user has not registered their software, our support operators can register them at the time they call. Therefore, we encourage all current users of WPWin 6.0 to register their software to receive the interim release. The four major objectives for WPWin 6.0a are as follows: 1. Reliability 2. Speed 3. Ease of Use tools 4. Transition tools for WPDos users WORDPERFECT CORPORATION ANNOUNCES NEW SUPPORT PROGRAMS New Programs Ensure Quality of Free Support, Add Options WordPerfect Corporation implemented an expanded customer support offering which includes a registration system for free support, redefined no-cost Classic Service, new instant-access Priority Service and corporate Silver Support the new Premium Service program for small-to medium-sized accounts. These offerings provide various free and fee-based options tailored to customers' service requirements. "Providing free, toll-free technical support for 14 years has been a wonderful part of our company's history, and we have answered more than 60million questions for our customers and others," said Kim Cooper, vice president of customer services at WordPerfect Corporation. "With these new support programs, we will continue to provide outstanding free and toll-free technical support to our registered users for a substantial period of time between projected upgrade releases and will also provide fee- based support options for users with more technical needs." Under WordPerfect Corporation's new support programs, registered users in the United States and Canada will receive 180 days of free, toll-free support for business applications and 90 days of free support for workgroup applications. The additional fee-based options offer priority access to second-line technicians on a per-incident or per-minute basis, or a variety of annual contracts for large accounts. The company will announce its customer support offering for the consumer products line Main Street at the end of the first quarter when the new line is scheduled to ship. "WordPerfect Corporation is preparing for continued changes in the market," said Ad Rietveld, president and CEO at WordPerfect Corporation. "With these new programs, the company upholds its reputation as the industry's customer support leader by addressing its customers' growing needs for accessible and flexible technical support." Users Need To Register. To qualify for the free Classic Service program, customers need to register with WordPerfect Corporation. Customers who are not registered can do this by completing and returning the registration card attached to the Certificate of License, which is included in WordPerfect Corporation product packages, or by providing the information to a support technician when calling for technical assistance. Beginning Feb. 1, customer support representatives will give registered and non-registered customers a PIN (personal identification number). Users will need their PIN each time they call support, as this number tracks a caller's eligibility for free Classic Service; multiple products can be assigned to one PIN. Beginning July 1, WordPerfect Corporation will use an automated system to verify that customers are registered and eligible to receive Classic Service. "Customer registration is one way to preserve the world-class quality of WordPerfect Corporation's classic service. By registering customers we ensure that the customers who buy our products are the same customers who benefit from the free service," said Cooper. Classic Service --------------- A registered customer will receive free Classic Service technical support for current products, beginning with the day the customer makes the first call for technical support. The free support period is 180 days for business applications and 90 days for workgroup applications. If users continue to need assistance beyond the free period, they may choose from various Priority Service or automated support options. Priority Service ---------------- The Priority Service program promises access to second-line technicians. The program does not require customer registration, has no limited time period and technicians will support current and most of the mature versions of WordPerfect Corporation products. Customers can pay for the support incident by credit card $25 per incident or $2 per minute for business applications and $150 for workgroup applications. The Priority Service program begins March 1 for workgroup applications and April 4 for business applications. Premium Service --------------- Large account customers may now choose from among three support options including WordPerfect's new $2,500-per-year Silver Support program geared to small-and medium-sized organizations with 50-300 end-users. The Silver Support program complements WordPerfect's recently announced $15,000-per-year Platinum Support and $10,000-per-year Gold Support programs for large-and medium-sized enterprises. Silver Support offers priority access to a second-line technician, a toll-free line and monthly updates to WordPerfect Corporation's customer support infobase on CD-ROM. Automated Support Services -------------------------- WordPerfect Corporation's free automated support options are available to all customers at any time. These include fax-on-demand InfoShare, BBS (bulletin board service), or existing online forums such as SpaceWorks, CompuServe and America Online. "Our new programs are in the WordPerfect tradition of providing the highest quality support to our customers," said Cooper. ________________________________________ > MIXED UP MOTHER GOOSE STR Review """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" KIDS' COMPUTING CORNER ====================== by Frank Sereno This week I will review Mixed-Up Mother Goose from Sierra On-line, another of the older but excellent titles available at huge discounts to careful shoppers. At the end of this article I will mention some methods of purchasing software at a discount. Mixed-Up Mother Goose is available on many computer platforms including IBM compatibles, Atari ST, Amiga and Macintosh. The version I am reviewing is the IBM CD-rom version, one of the first 'multi-media' releases. Requirements are a CD-rom drive, VGA graphics, 640k of base memory, a mouse or joystick , an AdLib or Sound Blaster compatible sound card and a 286 or better CPU. The game comes on two CD-ROMs, one of which is an English-only disc and the second is the multi-lingual disc which allows the speech in the program to be a choice of English, Japanese, German, French and Spanish. Installation is very easy. Simply select the drive letter of your CD-rom and then type INSTALL. The install program will then create batch and configuration files on your hard drive to start the game quickly. Upon starting the game, the title screen comes up and the player is given the choice of playing a saved game, a new game, changing the language or viewing the credits. Games in progress are automatically saved to the hard drive. Upon selecting a new game, the player is given the choice of 12 different on-screen alter egos. There are six boys and six girls of different ethnic heritages. Once you have chosen the on- screen character, the game will begin. The opening shows the on-screen child resting in bed. Clicking on various objects will result in the display of humorous animations. Clicking upon the book in the bookcase will cause the on-screen child to sleep and to dream of flying to Mother Goose land on the back of her goose. Mother Goose then explains her dilemma to the player. Mother Goose is a children's adventure game. Using a simple point and click interface, the child helps Mother Goose fix her mixed up nursery rhymes by finding items or people in the game and returning them to their proper places. In all, eighteen rhymes must be fixed including Humpty Dumpty, Little Tommy Tucker and Peter Pumpkin-Eater. The items are spread throughout Mother Goose land. The player can only carry one item at a time and picks up an item by moving their on-screen character past the item. The rhyme is fixed when the player takes the item he is carrying to the correct nursery rhyme character. Movement is accomplished by moving the on-screen cursor and clicking. When encountering any of the characters from Mother Goose land, clicking on the mouth icon will allow the player's on-screen character to converse with the nursery rhyme character. This will give the player clues as what items that character needs to complete his rhyme. If there are no nursery rhyme characters on screen, selecting the mouth icon will cause the player's character to say a small bit of personal information such as "Grandma makes macaroni and cheese for me when I visit." As Sierra's first multi-media effort, real people spoke the lines but the performances are only adequate. This is audio that is directly off the CD-rom disc. Other icons available to the player are a map icon which will show his location in the game as well as any locations of interest to the game, a volume control for the background music which is generated by your sound card, a speed icon for adjusting how fast the on-screen player walks and finally a stop icon so the player can exit the game. In the lower left portion of the screen, 18 small depressions are visible. As each nursery rhyme is complete, a gold ball will appear in one of the depressions. When the player finds an item and is ready to deliver it to the proper nursery rhyme character, simply find that character on-screen and then use the mouth icon to talk to that character. The nursery rhyme will then be animated on the screen and a song of the rhyme will be heard. Once all eighteen nursery rhymes have been fixed, the on-screen player will meet with all the nursery rhyme characters and then be flown home by Mother Goose's goose. Mixed-up Mother Goose is an excellent way to familiarize children with the classic nursery rhymes. The graphics and animation are quite good and the songs are bright and lively. Not only is this is a good game for younger children, but it can be used as an introductory adventure game for people that are unfamiliar with computers. The game is completely non-violent and the puzzles are easy. Players will learn how to use the mouse and to click on icons. I've played the game with my children and it is amusing, at least the first few times through the game. I recommend this game quite highly for children ages 3 through 8 years. Despite being written several years ago, it is still an excellent program even in comparison to today's latest releases. Floppy disk versions of Mixed-up Mother Goose can be found for $10. Many stores sell the CD-rom version for $20 or less. During the recent Christmas season, WalMart stores in northern Illinois were clearing out the CD-rom version for only $10. Now let's list some of the ways you can buy software at deep discounts. One method is to order your software through a high-volume mail order house. These merchants often have low overhead and offer the lowest prices on the latest releases. They also heavily discount older stock and often advertise those specials in computer magazines. A second method is to check the bargain bins of your nearest large computer store. As new software is released, the older stock must be removed to make room for the new and the quickest way to remove it is to heavily discount it. A third way of finding software at a discount is to visit stores that pick up discontinued software and sell it at low prices. Stores such as KayBee Toys often sell older software at huge discounts. These are all regular retail channels for buying software. Other ways of saving on software exist outside of these retail methods for saving. In many metropolitan areas, computer shows are being held. These shows are a gathering of computer software and hardware wholesalers and retailers. Often great savings can be gained from shopping these shows. Probably the items with the greatest mark-downs are CD-rom discs. Sometimes Hamfests and flea markets will have individuals selling computer equipment and software. Also gaining popularity are re-sale or used software stores. These stores buy software from end-users that no longer need the programs, add a markup and then resell the programs to their customers. Savings can be 50% or more, but most often it is about 25% off retail. Obviously, savings would be greater if you cut out the middleman in the purchasing of used software. One way to purchase used software directly from the owner is to shop want ads in newspapers, computer magazines such as Computer Shopper and regional want ad magazines. Here in northern Illinois we have Tradin' Times which has several pages of ads for computer items. Probably the best way is to shop For Sale echoes on Bulletin Board Systems. Many BBS systems have message bases dedicated to the sales of computer items. Many times these bases are limited to the users of that particular BBS. One way of reaching more people is to post on a message base that is networked between many BBSs. There are a myriad of networks out there such as RIMEnet, Vnet, Fnet, etc. Probably the oldest and most respected of networks is FIDOnet. FIDOnet has national and international echoes devoted to the selling of computer items. There are specific echoes for selling CD-ROMs, for commercial vendors and for private individuals. Most people dealing on these networks are reputable and honest, but every once in a while someone will try to pull a scam by accepting money and then either not shipping the goods paid for or by shipping broken or worthless merchandise. There are legal methods to protect yourself when shopping via BBS systems, but it also best to use common sense to avoid the scam artists. Read the messages in the echo for several weeks before trying to make any transactions. This will give you a chance to see who the regular and most dependable sellers are in that particular echo. Also note if there are any complaints about anyone involved in any transactions and avoid those people until those complaints are rectified. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it may very well be so. If someone insists on prepayment on a large purchase, exercise extreme caution. Some sellers are cautious to ship COD because if the shipment is refused, then they are stuck with the shipping costs. If they give you a tale of being burned on COD shipments, offer to send payment for shipping charges first but reserve payment for the merchandise until it arrives via UPS or other means. I hope that you find these reviews useful. As always, I thank you for reading! _____________________________________________ > INFOCENTRAL STR InfoFile """""""""""""""""""""""" Technology Update WORDPERFECT INFOCENTRAL 1.0 FOR WINDOWS IN BETA TESTING Intelligent Personal Information Manager Set To Ship By End of First Quarter WordPerfect Corporation's consumer products division has announced the company's new intelligent personal information manager for Windows, WordPerfect InfoCentral, has entered beta testing. WordPerfect InfoCentral, as part of the WordPerfect Main Street consumer product line, takes advantage of object-oriented technology to help users organize people, places, things and events. WordPerfect InfoCentral (previously code named CIA) is a personal productivity tool that allows users to organize and manage their daily information and contacts. The PIM offers calendaring, address book and to-do features all of which are integrated with patent-pending iConnect technology, in a simple interface. WordPerfect InfoCentral has created a new paradigm for information management, said Ad Rietveld, president and CEO, WordPerfect Corporation. The product is truly an intelligent information manager. With more than five years of development and with patent-pending technology, the superior capabilities of the PIM will make it easy for users to organize and manage their documents, contacts and appointments. Connections. WordPerfect InfoCentral intelligently connects information between people, places, things and events with iConnect. The PIM automatically sorts information into an easy- to-read outline that lets users describe the relationship or connection between pieces of information. "iConnect" allows users to enter and find information from multiple view points. For example, a user can enter the name George Bush into WordPerfect InfoCentral and include the companies, organizations, places, and people to whom George was formerly or presently associated. The user connects George to all of the categories and George can now be instantly retrieved by looking up any of the connected categories. Related File Launch. Through related file launching technology and OLE 2.0, users can now manage any type of information produced in any Windows applications including editors, word processors, databases, spreadsheets, presentation programs, etc. For example, to write a letter to George Bush, the user simply finds George's name in the PIM, clicks on the Related File launch button and WordPerfect InfoCentral automatically launches into the user's Windows word processor. Within seconds the program organizes a letter with George's name, address, opening salutation, and closing while putting the cursor in the exact location to begin writing a letter. After the user completes, saves, and closes the letter, WordPerfect InfoCentral takes the user back to George's name in the PIM where a "document" entry appears. By clicking on the document entry, the user can find the letter and any other document the user has connected to George Bush. Mail-enabled. The PIM is mail-enabled through WordPerfect Office or any e-mail application that supports VIM or MAPI standards. Enter Information Once. WordPerfect InfoCentral is unlike traditional contact and information managers because users are only required to enter information once. The PIM's intelligence reuses information already entered into the PIM such as names, addresses and phone numbers. The benefit for the user is that WordPerfect InfoCentral eliminates the redundant entering of data, saving valuable time and hard disk space. The time has come to deliver a true intelligent information manager that is designed with the user in mind, said Jeff Mallett, senior director, consumer products division. We haven't forced an old information management or paper contact system into a software package. Instead, we have maximized object-oriented technology and put the user in charge, not the program. Tabs. Tabs, similar to file folders, allow users to keep information they use most in an organized, easy to use format. Information updated in one tab, is automatically updated within all tabs. Outline View. WordPerfect InfoCentral presents information in an easy-to-understand Outline View. The Outline View shows users how all of their information is interconnected. No outlining is ever required by the user user's information is outlined in the PIM automatically. Calendar View. The program's Calendar View includes day, week and year views. Users can easily drag and drop appointments between days or weeks and schedule tasks in the same view. WordPerfect InfoCentral will also print information in all standard planner sizes for users who wish to carry their information in hard copy format. Address Book View. The Address Book View allows users to access names, addresses, phone and fax numbers, cellular numbers, and e-mail addresses of related persons and places. Information Bases. Another unique feature of WordPerfect InfoCentral that sets it apart from other PIMs is the four information bases, or iBases, that ship with the product. The four iBases include information on the top 500 consumer product companies, computer hardware and software companies, world business travel and wines of the world. All four iBases are presented using the PIM's technology that provides users with an instant reference and an excellent foundation or starting point for users to add their own personal information. WordPerfect Corporation will continue to develop iBases and work with other content providers to give users updates and additional iBases. Templates and quick tours. Templates and quick tours will help users quickly get started using WordPerfect InfoCentral. Several iBase templates will help users begin entering and connecting their information right away. Quick tours take users step by step through various functions of the PIM. System Requirements and Pricing: Requirements for WordPerfect InfoCentral are a 386 processor or higher with 4M of RAM. Microsoft Windows 3.1 or later and 4-6M of hard disk space are also required. The PIM can be used with any pen computer using Microsoft Windows for Pen Computing. The expected shipping date of version 1.0 is first quarter 1994 with a suggested retail price of $149 US/$179* CAN. WordPerfect InfoCentral is one of 28 products included in the WordPerfect Main Street consumer product line. Several other new products are expected to ship during 1994 to meet the computer software needs of the home and small business markets. WordPerfect Presentations. ADDITIONAL INFO FROM ANOTHER SOURCE: WordPerfect InfoCentral 1.0 for Windows is a new personal information manager (PIM) that creates a new paradigm for organizing people, places and things with the use of object-oriented computing along with tight integration between Windows applications, OLE 2.0, connecting of objects and simple user-definable fields. Information is presented in an Outline View, Calendars, To Dos and Address Books. Several helpful information bases, templates and quick tours ship with the PIM to help users get started. WordPerfect Works 2.0 for Windows is a powerful integrated software package that gives users instant integration with a word processor, database, spreadsheet, draw and paint module. Communications support is also included. WordPerfect Works for Windows gives users the power to draw, paint, write, budget and file all within one application. WordPerfect ExpressFax+ 3.0 for Windows integrates fax, data and voice communications all in one easy-to-use interface. Optical Character Recognition (OCR) support is provided through Xerox Imaging System's TextBridge Technology. ExpressFax+ 3.0 for Windows will have a suggested retail price of $99US/$120CAN and WordPerfect InfoCentral and WordPerfect Works for Windows will have a suggested retail price of $149US/$179CAN __________________________________________ > COREL OPEN LETTER STR InfoFile """""""""""""""""""""""""""""" COREL STEADILY IMPROVING ======================== To All: Greetings from Corel's Sales & Marketing department. I daily monitor the discussions here on Compuserve and I do appreciate your comments, suggestions, concerns regarding Corel's pricing and distribution policies. There are many issues that you have raised and although I cannot address all of them, I would like to say that your opinions matter to us. Many of you have expressed concern over the upgrade price, our 'all-in-one' software strategy, and now the shipping of upgrades. First, I'm not here to make excuses for Corel, but rather, to add my perspective to your discussions. First, Corel's upgrade price for CorelDRAW 4 was set after extensive consultation with users and with respect to the relative value in the box. Please consider the value of 650 Bitstream and ITC fonts, the comprehensive pre-press controls, desktop publishing features, OCR technology, additional clip-art and data manager, all user requested features and implemented within a 12 month development cycle. We're continuing to bring innovations to market with features like Powerlines, not found in any other package on any platform. We're confident you'll agree that the additions to the CorelDRAW module, fonts and clipart alone are worth the price of the upgrade. Secondly, you helped make CorelDRAW a success and we need you to continue to provide us with valuable feedback. Your suggestions regarding unbundling of the software modules are taken seriously. CorelDRAW 3 was the first 'all-in-one' graphics software package and sales virtually doubled in 1992. The strategy popularized graphics on the desktop and catapulted our company into another league with over half a million users worldwide. The strategy was right for the times and version 4 maintains that tradition with refinements throughout all of the modules. We are reviewing the product's future directions and your input is welcome. Finally, when CorelDRAW 3 shipped last year, we simultaneously shipped full versions and version upgrades to resellers and both products appeared on resellers shelves at the same time. This year, Corel was determined to process all upgrade orders directly through a 1-800 service until June 25. CorelDRAW 4 full versions and upgrades were manufactured within days of each other and while full versions were shipped first to wholesalers, CorelDRAW 4 version upgrades followed quickly and your orders are currently being processed through Federal Express. Computer stores will carry CorelDRAW 4 upgrades in July. We anticipate that if you placed an 'early bird upgrade' you will have your software within days of this announcement. I apologize for any inconvenience and confusion these company decisions may have caused you and I know you are eagerly awaiting your order. We trust that as we perfect this new system that our contact with you the loyal user of Corel will strengthen and you will continue to believe in the product and the people at Corel who enjoy bringing it to you. Warm regards, Arlen Bartsch Director, Sales & Marketing """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" :HOW TO GET YOUR OWN GENIE ACCOUNT: _________________________________ Set your communications software to Half Duplex (or Local Echo) Call: (with modem) 800-638-8369. Upon connection type HHH (RETURN after that). Wait for the U#= prompt. Type: XTX99587,CPUREPT then, hit RETURN. Are your friends "busy" buddies? Are they being left out in the cold because their online service doesn't have room for them? Is "Almost OnLine" as close as they're getting to BEING online? Are they faced with busy signals, "come back later" messages and slow response? Well, we know how frustrated they must feel. We've been there -- done that! But, that's no longer the Case on GEnie. We've got the room, we've got the fun and we've got the greatest users....people just like you! So why not invite your buddies to join you on GEnie? We've designed a slick promotion in order to give you the opportunity to be a hero to your friends. To get them back online, get them some free time, and introduce them to GEnie Services. What you don't have to tell them is that you get something out of the deal, too! For each new user you bring to GEnie, we'll waive their first month's subscription fee, and give them a total of TEN free hours of standard connect time -- that's a $38.95 (C$50.95) value! If you and your buddy are still active GEnie subscribers three months from the date your buddy signs up, YOU get five hours of FREE standard connect time -- a $15.00 (C$20.00) value for each buddy you sponsor! And, for a limited time, you can even qualify for SPECIAL PRIZES!!! In addition to the five hours of standard connect time, prizes will be awarded to the three sponsors who bring in the most qualifying buddies between February 3, 1994 and March 31, 1994. The third-place Buddy sponsor will receive a GEnie satin jacket. The second-place Buddy sponsor will receive a 9600 bps modem. And the first-place buddy sponsor will receive a $500 gift certificate good at your favorite computer store. Like everything good, there are a few rules for the GEnie Buddy Bonus Program. You'll find the complete promotion rules on the GEnie Services Buddy Bonus page (type BUDDY or M1111). Be sure you review the complete rules before you contact your friends. So, if your buddies have been bragging about that other online service, just remind them that a pretty interface ain't worth squat if it doesn't log on! Bring them over to GEnie....we may not be pretty just yet, but we're definitely more fun! And, if a GUI is that important to them, tell them that we'll have both Mac and Windows front ends before the other guys get more computers! Don't stand IN LINE ....get ONLINE! GEnie Information copyright (C) 1991 by General Electric Information Services/GEnie, reprinted by permission """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" ___ ___ _____ _______ /___| /___| /_____| /_______/ The Macintosh RoundTable /____|/____| /__/|__| /__/ ________________________ /_____|_____|/__/_|__|/__/ /__/|____/|__|________|__/ /__/ |___/ |__|_/ |__|_/____ Managed by SyndiComm /__/ |__/ |__|/ |__|______/ An Official Forum of the International Computer Users Group *** STReport available in MAC RT *** ASCII TEXT for ALL GEnie users! MAC/APPLE SECTION (II) ====================== Randy Noak, Editor Whew! The PowerMacs are here and STReport has all the info! By all accounts, the PowerMacs are a smash success. Reports have surfaced of 60mHz PowerMacs running PhotoShop at _four times_ the speed of PhotoShop on 80mHz Pentium chips. That's _FAST_! There's a bunch of PowerMac info in this issue, so be sure and check it out. Also, Associate Editor, Education, Melanie Bell, reviews "Busy Box", a fun children's shareware program. Mac Report Monthly is now available for download on America OnLine, CompuServe and GEnie. Mac Report Monthly (MRM) is an all-Mac monthly magazine containing some of the articles that have appeared in Mac Report the previous month. Be sure and check that out too. I'm sure you're all anxious to get to the PowerMac info, so I'll keep my opener short this week. Read on! ______________________________________ > The Ultimate Busy Box 3.3 STR Review """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" THE ULTIMATE BUSY BOX 3.3 ========================= by Melanie Bell, Associate Editor - Education The ultimate busy box is an educational shareware program I found on America OnLine . The program is a HyperCard stack that focuses on letter recognition , and number recognition skills. ULB opens with an all familiar voice of that purple dinosaur saying "Hello to all my friends". After which you see what looks like a typewriter. A voice then says "find" and calls out a letter randomly. The letter is also displayed at the top of the typewriter. The child is to match the lower case letter shown at the top, to the upper case letter on the typewriter. The child must use the mouse to navigate to the correct letter and click on it. Keyboard answers are not accepted. If the child does not choose the correct letter nothing happens. When the child matches the correct letter, he or she is rewarded by various sounds. A few of these sounds are a cats meow, a dogs bark, a simple melody, and a quack. Besides matching lower to upper case letters, the child is also asked to find numbers. When the correct number is clicked the child is rewarded by a "quack" the number of times equivalent to the number chosen. These sounds can also be heard by clicking on their buttons at the bottom of the typewriter. Along with these sounds, the child can click on a button of a typewriter and is rewarded by hearing what sounds like a typewriter. There is also a light bulb, that when clicked makes the screen flash. To add to that there is an ABC button that when the child clicks on it, a bar at the bottom flashes the letters and a voice recites the ABC s. There is also a button that has numbers on it, when the child clicks on it the bar at the bottom flashes numbers and a voice counts to nine. As a teacher, I really liked this program. The documentation referred to a toddler using it, but I could see my first graders benefit- ing from it. A lot of children have a difficult time matching lower case letters to their upper case counterparts. They also have a hard time recognizing numbers. Using the mouse to navigate to the correct letter or number develops hand- eye coordination. The sound and action buttons keep the child interested, the voice is that of a child and is under- standable. The Ultimate Busy Box Collection Shareware- $12.00 Alex Gónrieser 422 NE 82nd St. Seattle, WA98115 America OnLine :StimpyJ Internet: stimpyj@aol.com Melanie Bell is an elementary teacher from Rockwood ,Tennessee. __________________________________ > POWERMAC! STR InfoFile """""""""""""""""""""" THE COMPLETE POWERMAC REFERENCE =============================== "The best way to predict the future is to invent it." Alan Kay, Apple Fellow Power Macintosh: What's it all about? It's been ten years since people began talking about the computers that smiled back at them. The second decade for Apple Macintosh computers will certainly bring a sea of change in the realm of personal computing, but perhaps the most fundamental change will be the introduction of Power Macintosh computers. This new computing platform is based on PowerPC, a powerful new micropro- cessor that is designed to provide the foundation for the future of personal computing. This microprocessor is the result of a sweeping technology alliance made up of Apple, IBM, and Motorola that was formed in 1991. This alli- ance called for developing IBM's POWER RISC microprocessor architecture into a RISC chip that could be used for desktop computers. Apple chose this chip design because it combines state-of-the-art technology and the backing of major computer vendors that have a proven ability to produce chips in volumes large enough and cost effective enough to accommodate the massive personal computer market. Apple had four design goals when developing its Power Mac platform: => Provide tremendous performance at a reasonable price. This alone was a daunting goal, since no other personal computer vendor had been able to offer a system that was as affordable as it was robust. => Create an advanced computing environment that would pave the way for new kinds of applications. => Offer a smooth migration path for both Macintosh and PC users to PowerPC processor-based computers by offering a variety of upgrade options. => Make sure the new systems would be compatible with existing software and peripherals, and maintain a "look and feel" that users would recognize. No doubt about it, these were lofty goals. But intentions don't mean much unless they're carried out. This document will explain how Apple has addressed these goals and come through with a next-generation computing platform. In terms of Apple's specific roll-out plans, the company is intro- ducing Power Macintosh first into the midrange and high-end of the Macintosh family. The company will also integrate the PowerPC processor into its entire line, including desktop computers, workgroup servers, and notebook computers, over the next few years. Here are some of the highlights of Power Macintosh: => It uses an advanced microprocessor that provides workstation-like power. => The PowerPC 601 microprocessor outperforms its major competitor, Intel's Pentium processor. => It performs significantly better than computers running on 68040 and 80486 microprocessors. => It raises the ceiling on what a computer and its users can do. => It features an operating system, optimized for the new chip, that will make it easier to use a computer. => It retains the hallmark Macintosh look and feel. => It runs high-performance software applications that have been specif ically designed to take advantage of the power of the new chip. => It's highly compatible with software that runs on 68040 and 80486 microprocessors (including both DOS and Windows software). => It allows users to upgrade their current Macintosh systems to take advantage of the PowerPC chip. INSIDE APPLE'S POWER MACINTOSH SYSTEMS -------------------------------------- Apple's Choice of PowerPC Chip ------------------------------ The PowerPC family of microprocessors is built on RISC (reduced instruction set computing) technology and developed as part of the Apple, IBM, Motorola alliance formed in 1991. Why RISC? First, this microprocessor design takes the approach of streamlining the internal workings of computers. Whereas traditional CISC (complex instruction set computing) processors Intel's Pentium chip, for example contain a vast number of instructions to handle nearly every task that a computer carries out, RISC processors contain only the instructions that are used most often. The result: RISC processors execute basic instruc- tions very quickly. To handle a more complex instruction, RISC proces- sors simply build it from its basic instructions. This powerful proces- sor, until now, was used only in systems designed for raw computational power, such as engineering workstations and database servers running the UNIX operating system. The introduction of the RISC-based PowerPC chip brings the power of a workstation to the personal computer. Why PowerPC? Apple's decision to go with the PowerPC chip was influenced by a combination of factors. The linchpin was that IBM was willing to adapt its POWER RISC architecture already used on IBM's RS/6000 workstations to create a RISC-based microprocessor appropriate for personal computer users. That move provided the alliance with a known product that already had a set of application development tools that could be revamped for the PowerPC chip. And, having three major companies going in on the chip was a sure-fire way to call on considerable research and development re- sources to produce several versions of the chip simultaneously. The strength of the alliance companies has the additional benefit of ensuring that the PowerPC chip will become a mainstream processor in short order. Finally, on the logistics side, Apple was satisfied that PowerPC could be produced cost-effectively in large quantities, since the alliance compa- nies had already established that they could pump out the millions of microprocessors needed for the personal computer market. The PowerPC microprocessor family currently comprises four models, ranging in speed from 60-MHz to 80-MHz clock speeds. They are: => PowerPC 601 for midrange to high-end Macintosh systems => PowerPC 603 an energy-saving, lower-cost design for entry-level desktop Macintosh computers and PowerBook models => PowerPC 604 the next level in high-performance computing => PowerPC 620 a very high-performance processor designed for workstations and servers How PowerPC Stacks Up Competitively Though Apple chose the RISC-based PowerPC chip to be the brain of its new line of computers, the company realizes there are other technolo- gies on the market. Here's how they stack up. Intel's Pentium, based on CISC technology, is the most powerful microprocessor that DOS and Windows computer vendors use. Intel insists that it is not necessary to use RISC technology in microprocessors designed for powerful personal computers. However, in benchmark tests, even the first generation PowerPC 601 microprocessors were on par with Pentium and more than 30% faster than Pentium in floating-point calcula- tions (such as 3-D graphics and CAD). The bottom line for computer users is that RISC-based microprocessors will help their applications run faster than if they were running on CISC-based microprocessors. Not only does PowerPC outperform Pentium, but it does so in a smaller and cooler package. Size affects the cost of a microprocessor (smaller ones are less expensive), while heat output determines which computer models it can be used in (hotter processors need more space and electronic power, which means they are not well-suited for notebook computers). The PowerPC 601 microprocessor is roughly half the size, heat output, and price of the Pentium chip. Couple those advantages with the performance statistics, and, in the end, the PowerPC 601 is a less expensive, more versatile personal computer chip. The PowerPC chip also does well when going head-to-head with today's mainstream personal computer chips. PowerPC processor-based machines, when running "native" applications, offer two to four times the perfor- mance of the 68040-based Macintosh Quadra line or Intel 80486-based computers. Native applications are those which have been either origi- nally designed or re-tooled to take advantage of the PowerPC chip. In benchmark tests, native applications that rely on floating-point calcula- tions ran as much as 8 to 10 times faster than the fastest Motorola 68040 and Intel 80486 based personal computers on the market. More Power Means the Computer Does More Power Macintosh raises the ceiling on what computers can do and is well-suited to handle power-hungry tasks. This means that many capabili- ties are at the hands of mainstream computer users for the first time. For instance, "power user" applications such as animation and full-motion video can be used on Power Macintosh; this enables more people to easily create snappy multimedia presentations. This also holds true for ad- vanced desktop graphic design and illustration long the domain of pub- lishers using souped-up computers which will become feasible for main- stream computer users, thanks to significant speed advances. New collab- orative communication services, including live-screen sharing (for remote proofing of documents) and video conferencing, are on the agenda as well. Power Macintosh also allows Apple to expand its AV technologies, such as speech recognition, text-to-speech conversion (for practical applications like language instruction training), and voice and language processing. The increased power of Power Macintosh computers allows both Apple and third-party developers to introduce across-the-board computing advances. The PowerPC processor-based systems open the door to advances in the user interface, so the interface can progress from easy-to-use to invisible. Someday, intelligent agents will allow the computer to learn the users habits and automate those tasks that the user does most often. Other improvements will include more sophisticated help systems and future advancements such as OpenDoc, an open architecture that will make it easier to share information across many computer platforms. These are just a smattering of the technologies that Power Macintosh will enable. The net gain of Power Macintosh is simple, but important: it provides ample headroom for a vast number of new computing technologies. Delivering the Power in a Familiar Package ------------------------------------------ Maintaining the Macintosh Look and Feel PowerPC will take the Macintosh platform to a new level. But it's important to remember that each Power Macintosh system is still a Macintosh. Although Apple is not the only manufacturer building a computer with the PowerPC microprocessor, it is the only company that has elected to combine RISC technology with an advanced, mainstream personal computer operating system, System 7. So while other vendors move users to a new operating system in order to benefit from RISC, Apple has chosen to bring its operating system to Power Macintosh. Apple's first-genera- tion models will appear just like other Macintosh systems, providing its users with a familiar user interface smiling computer face and all and will not require retraining. Whether copying a file or launching an application, users will interact with the computer as they have in the past. Operating System Optimized for PowerPC -------------------------------------- While the user interface will look familiar, the operating system will advance. Apple has optimized portions of System 7 so that it achieves high performance on the PowerPC chip. For example, most appli- cations constantly access the Macintosh Toolbox, a set of system software modules that handle common tasks. Those toolbox procedures that demand the most computational power (such as QuickDraw routines for redrawing the computer screen) have been modified to take advantage of RISC. And, because Apple will be converting more and more of the operating system to native PowerPC code, the system will actually get faster (way faster!) as Apple releases new versions of the system software. In fact, later versions of the software will begin to take on additional qualities, incorporating intelligent agents and other enabling technologies. These types of advances will go beyond making it easy to use a computer they will make it easier for the user to get right to the work at hand without thinking about the computer. Native Applications ------------------- System software is not the only software that's getting a makeover. Applications are also being revamped to take advantage of the new sys- tem's power. Major software companies are leading the effort and many others are following suit to produce hundreds of native PowerPC applica- tions (those that have either been designed or recompiled to exploit the PowerPC chip's performance potential). Applications are under develop- ment in virtually every category, including publishing, general produc- tivity (such as word processing), scientific and engineering, education, and more. Among the software developers are Adobe Systems, Inc., ACIUS, Inc., Aldus Corporation, Claris Corporation, Deneba Software, Frame Technology, Insignia Solutions, Inc., Microsoft Corporation, Quark, Inc., Specular International, and WordPerfect Corporation. Protecting the User's Investment -------------------------------- Compatibility: Making it Easy on Users Apple knew that developing a new platform for running applications at breakneck speed was a good idea, but ignoring the computer user's current investment was not. For that reason, Apple has worked to make sure that Power Macintosh is compatible with existing personal computer products. In tests conducted with developers worldwide during the past year, 90 percent of existing Macintosh applications tested on an early Power Macintosh prototype ran without a problem. Lab results indicate that these applications will range in performance from that of a fast 68030- to a 68040-based Macintosh computer. Apple realizes that the world is more than just Macintosh computers. Apple and third-party vendors have made strides to ensure that other PC users can get in on the Power Macintosh action. Insignia Solutions, Inc. is manufacturing a software product called SoftWindows, which gives users the ability to run both DOS and Windows applications on Power Macintosh computers. But compatibility means more than just running applications. Utility software such as INITs, CDEVs, and printer drivers also work on Power Macintosh systems. So do NuBus cards (such as networking and accelerator cards), AppleTalk devices (such as printers), SCSI devices (such as hard disks and scanners), ADB devices (such as a mouse, a trackball, and a keyboard), and other Macintosh cards and peripherals. Compatibility will extend to future computer innovations as well. For instance, Power Macintosh systems will be able to run new operating systems, including the UNIX-based PowerOpen and object-oriented Taligent operating systems. Apple Continues Current Computer Line, Offers Upgrades A discussion of compatibility naturally leads to two related issues: What's going to happen to the current line of computers, and how do people who want to upgrade go about it? Apple has been developing the Macintosh line of computers for a decade and, with Power Macintosh, begins a new era. The Macintosh family will continue to be offered with a wide range of prices and features, and the 680x0-based (also known as 68K) computers will play an important role in its future. The company will market entry-level Macintosh Quadra systems, Performa and Macintosh LC lines based on the 68040 chips to meet the needs of people who are looking for a very affordable computer and do not require the power of the new chips. The 68K family will, like Power Macintosh, undergo further technology advancements, such as system software upgrades. People who want to keep their current computer systems and upgrade them to the PowerPC chip have options as well. Providing upgrades wherever possible has been Apple's goal since Power Macintosh was a glint in the engineer's eye. Apple expects to offer logic board and processor upgrades for Macintosh computers based on 680x0 chips. With a range of options to suit different users, Apple will sell upgrades starting at approximately $700. Logic board upgrades will be available for the Macintosh Quadra 840AV, 800, 660AV, 650, and 610 models; the Macintosh Centris 660AV, 650, and 610 computers; and the Macintosh IIvx and IIvi; and the Performa 600. In addition, people who own the Apple Workgroup Server 60, 80, and 95 can also purchase logic board upgrades to Power Macintosh. Another upgrade option is a lower-cost version that users can install themselves: a processor upgrade card. These will be available for the Macintosh Quadra 950, 900, 800, 700, 650 and 610, as well as the Macintosh Centris 650 and 610. These cards connect to the computer through the processor direct slot (PDS) and allow the machines to run at twice their original clock speed. Apple has also announced its intent to provide future upgrades for entry-level Macintosh systems, such as the Macintosh Quadra 605, LC 475, the Macintosh LC 520, 550, and 575; and the Performa 470 series and Performa 550. New Power Macintosh Models -------------------------- Apple begins the roll-out of Power Macintosh by introducing three different systems: => Power Macintosh 6100/60. Powered by a 60-MHz PowerPC 601 microprocessor, this is the most affordable system in the new line and features a slim-line design (like the design of the Macintosh Quadra 610). => Power Macintosh 7100/66. This model uses a 66-MHz PowerPC 601 microprocessor and shares the design of the Macintosh Quadra 650. It is designed to be a mainstream business system. => Power Macintosh 8100/80. The highest-performance computer in the current line, this system uses an 80-MHz PowerPC 601 microprocessor and is well-suited for power users, such as professional publishers, engineers and other technical people. It features a Macintosh Quadra 800 mini-tower design. Each system is also being sold in an AV model, which includes video in and out, telephone integration, and sound and speech recognition. In addition, there are separate configurations to support CD-ROM and SoftWindows. All models come standard with Ethernet, 16-bit stereo sound and connections for Apple's GeoPort telecommunications adapter, so users can send faxes from the computer and connect to on-line information services. Building a Bridge to the Future of Computing -------------------------------------------- "Look with favor upon a bold beginning." Virgil Apple plans to use the PowerPC processors first in its midrange and high-end Macintosh computers. Over time, Apple will be offering PowerPC versions in all its product lines, including the Macintosh Quadra, Performa, Macintosh LC, PowerBook, and WorkGroup Server systems. This, however, is not the end of the technological road for Apple's new line. The company plans to continue to design new systems using the next PowerPC chips the Power PC 603, 604, and 620. The current operating system will advance, and new operating systems for Power Macintosh computers will be introduced (such as PowerOpen and Taligent). The user interface will advance, new industry-standard hardware will be developed, and many more native applications will hit the market. These are some of the specific plans for Apple's vision for the future of personal computing. Countless details go into the implementa- tion of a next-generation computing platform, but all can be compressed into one singular goal: providing systems that enable a whole new world of personal computing. And that means offering the power and flexibility to build a bridge to the future. Apple believes that by using Power Macintosh, people and businesses will have the tools to unleash creativity and innovation as never before. Quick Reference Guide --------------------- 680x0 or 0x0 The microprocessor family used in all Macintosh systems before the introduction of the PowerPC microprocessor. Manufactured by Motorola, the current versions of this microprocessor are the 68030 and 68040 (also referred to as the 68K family). 80x86 or x86 A line of Intel microprocessors, including 386 and 486 models that are the primary processors used in personal computers running DOS, Windows, and OS/2 operating systems. CISC CISC stands for complex instruction set computing. This is the name of a computer chip design. CISC technology contains a vast number of instructions to handle many different tasks (as opposed to RISC (see definition) which only contains those instructions that are used most often). Intel's Pentium microprocessor, for example, is based on CISC technology. Microprocessor or processor The piece of equipment in a computer where all instructions that are carried out during an operation (everything from launching an application to calculating a spreadsheet) are processed. Also known as a microchip or chip. Native application An application that has been either recompiled or originally designed for use with a particular microprocessor. Native applications are optimized to take full advantage of a microprocessor's speed. PowerOpen A new version of the UNIX operating system being developed by Apple and IBM. PowerOpen is a major new open-systems platform that combines features of IBM's RS/6000 AIX family and Apple's A/UX operating system. As with A/UX, PowerOpen will support Macintosh as well as UNIX applica- tions. PowerPC The microprocessor developed as part of an Apple, IBM, and Motorola alliance. This microprocessor, based on RISC technology (see definition), is used in Apple's family of Power Macintosh computers. RISC RISC stands for reduced instruction set computing. This is the name of a computer chip design. RISC chips contain only those instructions that are used most often. When a complex instruction is needed, a RISC chip builds it from a combination of basic instructions. PowerPC chips are based on RISC technology. Until PowerPC chips were introduced, RISC technology had been used only in systems designed for raw computational power, such as engineering workstations and commercial database servers. Taligent This is the name of a company and its product. Funded by Apple and IBM, Taligent (the company) is creating a new object-oriented operating system of the same name. Taligent software will run on Apple's RISC- based systems. _____________________________________________ > APPLE PR LEADS STR InfoFile """"""""""""""""""""""""""" THIS RELEASE MOVED OVER PR NEWSWIRE AND FIRST CALL ON MONDAY, MARCH 14, 1994 AT 3:03 AM, EST Apple Debuts Power Macintosh Line Three New Models Combine the Power of RISC with Mainstream Software, Including Macintosh, DOS, and Windows; Prices Start at Less than $2,000 NEW YORK, New York--March 14, 1994--Apple Computer, Inc. today unveiled Power Macintosh --a new line of Apple Macintosh personal computers that offers the power of workstation computers, the affordability of mainstream personal computers, and the capability to run applications for Macintosh, MS-DOS, and Microsoft Windows. The company believes that Power Macintosh represents the platform for the next generation of personal computing. Power Macintosh running System 7 marries, for the first time, the power of RISC (reduced instruction set computing) technology with a mainstream personal computing operating system. As such, Apple believes that it has established a foundation that is, at once, so robust and approachable that it will catalyze the development of richer applications, more intuitive software, and--ultimately--wholly new ways of using computers. The three new Power Macintosh models--the Power Macintosh 6100/60, 7100/66, and 8100/80--join the midrange and high-end of the Macintosh family. Fueled by the PowerPC 601 microprocessor, which was jointly developed by Apple, IBM, and Motorola as part of their historic 1991 alliance, Power Macintosh computers offer the highest performance of any personal computer available today. When running new versions of application software optimized for PowerPC, Power Macintosh systems offer two to four times the performance of today s Intel 486 and Motorola 680x0-based personal computers. Power Macintosh computers also outperform systems based on Intel's advanced microprocessor, Pentium. Applications that require complex computation, such as graphics and engineering applications, may run up to 10 times faster on Power Macintosh than on current personal computer offerings. More than 150 software developers worldwide have committed to shipping PowerPC optimized or "native" versions of their applications. Apple is also providing a bridge from its Power Macintosh systems to thousands of existing applications for DOS and Windows with a new software program called SoftWindows from Insignia Solutions. SoftWindows comes bundled with certain Power Macintosh configurations and is also sold separately. With their cross-plaftorm compatibility, Apple expects the new systems to attract Macintosh, DOS, and Windows users. Power Macintosh computers should be particularly popular in professional and mainstream business sectors with customers whose appetite for increased speed and power was only previously met through more costly workstations. These customers would typically use computers for high-performance tasks, including publishing, graphic arts, science and research. Mainstream Operating System --------------------------- Power Macintosh computers run an optimized version of the Macintosh System 7 operating system. This means Power Macintosh users can enjoy the ease of use, simple plug-and-play, and thousands of software applications that have distinguished the Macintosh platform to date. Additionally, System 7.1.2, the version of the Macintosh operating system for Power Macintosh, has key features, such as the QuickTime multimedia architecture and QuickDraw graphics architecture, that have been tuned for even better performance. Apple plans to add additional new features for the PowerPC processor and introduce new technologies that capitalize on its advanced power. Exceptional Compatibility ------------------------- Because Power Macintosh computers run the mainstream Macintosh operating system, these new systems are compatible with previous Motorola 68000-based Macintosh systems. This means that Power Macintosh customers can choose from thousands of current Macintosh applications, peripherals, and cards--including Apple s existing family of LocalTalk , Ethernet and Token-Ring products--and run them unaltered. With the addition of the SoftWindows emulation software, DOS and Windows users have the ability to run most of their current applications on their Power Macintosh computers with performance similar to that of Intel 386 and 486 computers, depending on the application and system configuration. Strong Developer and Applications Support Virtually all the major players in the software developer community today have announced strong support for the platform worldwide, including industry leading vendors such as Adobe, Aldus, Claris, Lotus, Microsoft, Quark, and WordPerfect. More than 50 native applications are scheduled to ship at or within 30 days of introduction, with hundreds slated to be available in the first six months. Native applications (meaning those written specifically to tap the power of PowerPC) span a broad range of titles and categories, including publishing, education, multimedia, technical markets and general business (see related release, March 14, 1994, "Hundreds of Optimized Applications Announced for PowerPC"). The first wave of Power Macintosh applications will primarily take advantage of improved speed. Apple expects that, in the future, Power Macintosh will enable new and enhanced capabilities in the area of intelligent software, animation and high-resolution video, integrated video and telecommunications, and advancements in speech recognition and language processing. Availability and Pricing ------------------------ Power Macintosh systems and a range of PowerPC 601 processor-based upgrades will be offered worldwide through Apple authorized resellers. Systems are available immediately in the U.S. and other selected regions worldwide. The U.S. Apple price ranges from $1,819 for the Power Macintosh 6100/60 base system equipped with 8MB of DRAM and a 160MB hard disk, to $4,249 for the Power Macintosh 8100/80 base system offered with 8MB of DRAM, a 250MB hard disk and 2MB of VRAM. Product availability and pricing will vary outside of the U.S. Server Products. Apple Business Systems also announced that it plans to introduce Apple Workgroup Servers based on the PowerPC microprocessor in May. The client software for Apple client/server applications, including AppleShare , AppleSearch and Apple Remote Access, is compatible with Power Macintosh systems today. Apple server software, including AppleShare and AppleSearch, will also be upgraded to run under emulation on the servers and will be available in May. Specifics on the various server upgrade options will be made available in the coming weeks. Power Macintosh --------------- Product Specifications, Upgrades and Pricing - Power Macintosh 6100/60; The most affordable Power Macintosh computer runs at 60-MHz, offers full storage and expansion features (including one 7" NuBus slot and an optional built-in CD-ROM) in a slim-line design. The base model, equipped with 8MB of DRAM and 160MB hard disk, has an Apple price of $1,819. Apple Price/CPU Only 8/160 $1,819.00 8/250CD $2,289.00 8/250CD/AV/2MB VRAM $2,599.00 16/250/SoftWindows $2,519.00 - Power Macintosh 7100/66; Running at 66-MHz, this is ideal for general business computing. Based on Apple s Macintosh Quadra 650 design, it offers greater expansion (three NuBus slots) and support for more colors and larger displays. The Apple price for a configuration with 8MB of DRAM, 250MB hard disk, and 1MB of VRAM starts at $2,899. Apple Price/CPU Only 8/250/1MB VRAM $2899.00 8/250CD/1MB VRAM $3179.00 8/500/CD/AV/2MB VRAM $3989.00 16/250/SoftWindows/1MB VRAM $3379.00 - Power Macintosh 8100/80; Based on the familiar Macintosh Quadra 800 mini-tower design and running at 80-MHz, this is the highest-performance Power Macintosh model with the most flexibility. It accommodates three NuBus expansion slots, built-in video support for up to 16.7 million colors, extensive storage options, dual-channel SCSI and Level 2 cache memory. A configuration with 8MB of DRAM, 250MB hard disk, and 2MB of VRAM starts at $4,249. Apple Price/CPU Only 8/250/2MB VRAM $4249.00 8/250CD/2MB VRAM $4519.00 16/500CD/AV/2MB VRAM $5659.00 16/1000CD/2MB VRAM $6159.00 16/500/SoftWindows/2MB VRAM $5309.00 - Configuration Details All models come equipped with a built-in floating-point math coprocessor; on-board Ethernet; 16-bit, CD-quality stereo sound; and connections for the Apple GeoPort Telecom Adapter, so users can send faxes from the computer and connect to on-line information. In addition, there are separate configurations of each Power Macintosh model to support a CD-ROM drive, SoftWindows, and Apple AV Technologies speech, telecommunications, and advanced video capabilities. PlainTalk speech- recognition and text-to-speech software comes standard with AV systems, and is also sold separately for all models. In addition to Apple s existing family of LocalTalk , Ethernet, and Token-Ring products, Apple plans to offer a high performance, 7 Token Ring card for all NuBus-based Macintosh systems. The new card includes driver software that supports Novell Inc s Netware protocols when used in conjunction with Insignia Solutions SoftWindows product. This new driver is planned to be included with version 1.4.4 of Apple s Network Software Installer disk and will provide performance enhancements and Netware support for the existing Apple Token-Ring 4/16 NB card. - PowerPC 601 Processor Upgrades Apple announced Shipping a range of logic board and processor upgrades based on the PowerPC 601 chip for many current Macintosh sys- tems. Logic board upgrades, which provide existing Macintosh models with the full functionality of PowerPC technology, are available for the Macintosh Quadra 840AV, 800, 660AV, 650, and 610 models; the Macintosh Centris 660AV, 650, and 610 computers; the Macintosh IIvx and IIvi, and Performa 600 products. Lower-cost processor upgrade cards are now available for the Macintosh Quadra 950, 900, 800, 700, 650, and 610 models, as well as the Macintosh Centris 650 and 610 computers. The processor upgrade card takes advantage of the processor-direct slot (PDS). Additionally, Apple Business Systems will provide PowerPC micropro- cessor upgrades to customers of Apple s Workgroup Server 60 and 80 models. These PowerPC processor upgrades will allow customers of Motorola 68000 server systems to upgrade to servers running Macintosh System 7 on PowerPC. In the future, Apple plans to provide PowerPC technology upgrade products for the Macintosh Quadra 605; LC 550, 575, and 520; and the Performa 550. Apple also plans to continue to work on upgrades for other Macintosh models. In addition, Apple is working in conjunction with third-party developers to provide an array of options for customers to upgrade to PowerPC technology. Apple Price Power Macintosh Upgrade Card $699.00 Power Macintosh 6100/60 Logic Board Upgrade $999.00 8MB DRAM Power Macintosh 6100/60AV Logic Board Upgrade $1399.00 8MB DRAM/2MB VRAM Power Macintosh 7100/66 Logic Board Upgrade $1499.00 8MB DRAM/1MB VRAM Power Macintosh 7100/66AV Logic Board Upgrade $1699.00 8MB DRAM/2MB VRAM Power Macintosh 8100/80 Logic Board Upgrade $1899.00 8MB DRAM/2MB VRAM, 256K Cache Power Macintosh 8100/80AV Logic Board Upgrade $1999.00 8MB DRAM/2MB VRAM, 256K Cache - Power Macintosh Accessories Power Macintosh 6100/60 NuBus Adapter Card $99 Power Macintosh 256K Cache Card $299 (for the 6100/60 & 7100/66) Power Macintosh Display Adapter $29 That's it for this week. As always, please feel free to send your comments or questions to me at: America OnLine: STReportRN Compuserve: 70323,1031 GEnie: R.NOAK ********************************************************************** IMPORTANT NOTICE! ================= STReport International Online Magazine is available every week for your reading pleasure on DELPHI. STReport's readers are invited to join DELPHI and become a part of a friendly community of enthusiastic computer users there. SIGNING UP WITH DELPHI ====================== Using a personal computer and modem, members worldwide access DELPHI services via a local phone call JOIN --DELPHI -------------- Via modem, dial up DELPHI at 1-800-695-4002 then... When connected, press RETURN once or twice and... At Password: type STREPORT and press RETURN. DELPHI's Basic Plan offers access for only $6.00 per hour, for any baud rate. The $5.95 monthly fee includes your first hour online. For more information, call: DELPHI Member Services at 1-800-544-4005 DELPHI is a service of General Videotex Corporation of Cambridge, MA. Try DELPHI for $1 an hour! For a limited time, you can become a trial member of DELPHI, and receive 5 hours of evening and weekend access during this month for only $5. If you're not satisfied, simply cancel your account before the end of the calendar month with no further obligation. If you keep your account active, you will automatically be enrolled in DELPHI's 10/4 Basic Plan, where you can use up to 4 weekend and evening hours a month for a minimum $10 monthly charge, with additional hours available at $3.96. But hurry, this special trial offer will expire soon! To take advantage of this limited offer, use your modem to dial 1-800-365-4636. Press <RET> once or twice. When you get the Password: prompt, type IP26 and press <RET> again. Then, just answer the questions and within a day or two, you'll officially be a member of DELPHI! DELPHI-It's getting better all the time! ********************************************************************** ATARI/JAG SECTION (III) ======================= Dana Jacobson, Editor > From the Atari Editor's Desk "Saying it like it is!" """""""""""""""""""""""""""" I have to say this softly as I don't want to cause any backlash: a week has gone by and we haven't seen any snow in the Northeast! I've also noticed that the snow is rapidly melting; the sure signs of Spring are starting: big puddles, plenty of mud, and jam-packed car washes! Who said Spring had to have a poetic air?! The past few days have been really exciting due to the overwhelming response to my request for Jaguar reviewers and writers in last week's issue as well as online! As of Monday, I've received over a dozen "SIGN ME UP!" responses; and I expect more by the time this issue is released. I plan to utilize as many people as possible for a variety of Jaguar related articles, so keep those cards and letters coming. I'll be announcing the names of the new staff members later on in this section. Some of the folks who have accepted have had some terrific writing experience both in and out of the Atari community; I'm sure that you'll recognize a few of the names. I'm looking forward to working with these new members of the STReport Atari/Jaguar team; it's going to be a lot of fun. If things go as planned, I hope to start ourexpanded Jaguar cover- age 2 weeks from today. What will we be covering with regard to the Jaguar? Well, the obvious will be the games themselves. Some members of our newly-added staff are veteran game reviewers so you can expect some excellent and unbiased reviews. We'll also be covering the Jaguar online discussions to learn what's being said by the online community. As new hardware peripherals come about, such as ICD's "Cat Box," we'll do our best to cover them as well. We'll also do our best to provide game tips, access codes, cheats, "Easter Eggs," and other pertinent information pertaining to game play. It should be an interesting and enjoyable experience for all involved, including you. Last week's issue of STReport contained some negative comments regarding two topics, neither appearing in the Atari section. The reason that I'd like to make a few comments/observations is that I received a few private messages and phone calls regarding these. One group of comments pertained to the publisher's decision to table the decision to change STReport's format from ASCII to RTF (Rich Text Format). People should realize that, no matter what feedback a publisher receives, the final decision is his alone. For whatever reasons he makes that decision, it's his call. Randy Noak's comments (and I have not discussed this with him) were, as far as _I_ could determine, as a result of frustration. Apparently he had been anticipating the changeover to RTF and was extremely disappointed at the abrupt change in those plans. To blame that decision on a particular platform's users was probably not the tactful route to take, as there were users of a number of platforms to voice their concerns. But, it happened. Had I been in Randy's shoes, I may have had similar feelings about the situation. Enough said... The other comments were based on Ralph's editorial regarding what is now growing into a "re-born" debate of the "Gem-View Fiasco" that erupted some months ago and led to the persecution of Lexicor Software and its staff. STReport made its stand on this fiasco months ago. The subject died down and Lexicor's alleged "besmirched" reputation was regained. Their visibility online, along with new products coming out rapidly, showed their resilience and their ongoing support of the Atari community. Things were quiet. Perhaps this is one reason why all of this madness erupted again. The same "attackers" are back again, apparently with a few allies to start anew. Naturally, Lexicor has been "forced" to respond. And, since Ralph decided to make some comments in his editorial last week, STReport is involved. The latest bit is based on Gem-View's author and his posting of a message via the Internet to a number of "players," but ignored to include Lexicor. This post essentially stated that Lexicor has no rights to have any relationship with this shareware program, regardless of the involvement. This Internet post had then been forwarded here and there, copied to and fro, and has been posted in a number of variations since. The text of the message has been left intact, but there have been questions as to the Internet header and the _possibility_ that there are some inconsistencies. Personally, I believe that this shareware author is being misled, or misinformed. He apparently has signed a contract with Lexicor stating that they can provide support of various degrees. The program's docs are not consistent with what's being said online. And now, the author has allegedly claimed that Lexicor has no affiliation with the program. A lot is wrong with this, and needs to be cleared up. Whether or not that will happen is anybody's guess. Whether or not anyone really cares is another. We're talking about a shareware program here, folks! This is absolutely ridiculous and doesn't deserve the activity that's been generated! What _does_ deserve attention is the continued behind the scenes actions by a few that continue to stir up some controversy. Eventually and inevitably, it will be STReport that will be blamed for the entire matter. We've seen it happen so many times before... Will we cover any further developments, or investigate it ourselves? Perhaps, but I honestly believe that this will not be resolved. What should happen is for the two parties concerned to discuss it - period. Leave the outside influences out of it, for a change. End of story. So, let's get back to some refreshing news and information again! Since the time that I started this editorial, I received yet another Atari Weekend promo in the mail! Yep, they're doin' another one. We should start a pool to see how many consecutive weeks this occurs! Anyway, you'll see those details in a minute or so. I want to now announce the names of those interested parties that will be helping me in the near future to get our Jaguar coverage going full-tilt! Since there are still just a few Jaguar titles currently available, you'll obviously not see a lot of these people in every issue, but you will eventually. I wish that I had the ability to assign them all something to do immediately, but we'll try to get them all involved as soon as possible! So, here we go (in no particular order!).... John "Ducky" Duckworth - our current online fisherman guru and all- around games fanatic! Jay Levy - A University of Florida journalism grad who has been an avid games player since he was able to handle Pong! Jeff Kovach - Editor of the former online gaming magazine, Atari Gaming Gazette. Jeff also runs his own BBS and is a SysOp in the Atari Forums on Compuserve. Marty Mankins - Marty is a SysOp in Compuserve's Palmtop Forum and writes an online newsletter called "Palm to Palm." He also writes for a few other publications, including CONNECT. Frank Sereno - Frank currently is a contributor to STReport, having done about 10 reviews of educational software for the PC section of the magazine. Paul Harris - An avid Jaguar fan and an active CIS ATARIGAMING participant. Kevin Miller - One of our "local" guys who happened to be the first "kid" on the block to get a Jaguar in our area. Kevin is also an active SysOp on Toad Hall BBS. He also threatened to get his Air Force MP buddies if I didn't include him!! (Just kidding!) Craig Harris - Another active CIS ATARIGAMING member who has written a number of reviews but never submitted any of them until now!! Carl Prehn - Another "started with the original Atari Pong!" Carl is interested in being involved in the video gaming industry, so a likely candidate for industry news and reviews. Paul Charchian - Another journalism major from the University of Minnesota. Paul is the publisher of the Jaguar 'fanzine' "The Prowler" and is the publisher of a "real" magazine entitled "Fantasy Football Weekly." Allen Chang - All the way on the other side of the globe, Allen will provide us a perspective from the land "Down Under," from Australia! Allen is an avid CIS ATARIGAMING member, as well. Dominick Fontana - Dom is yet another ATARIGAMING member. Dom will have some future reviews in AEO, and would also like to contribute to STReport's Jaguar section with different reviews and articles. Well, there you have them! There have been more offers and in time I hope that we'll have the opportunity to add their contributions also. I will be letting all of the "applicants" know that anything that they submit unsolicited will be considered for publication, as I would for anyone. We're all looking forward to more Jaguar coverage in the upcoming months; and I'm sure that this is going to be an enjoyable and informative experience for all!! Well, as fate would have it, my earlier comments about no more snow apparently jinxed me!! We just got another snowfall mid-week and another forecast for Friday!! Hmmm, I wonder if this is related to the "wash the car and it will rain" syndrome! Did someone say that Spring starts next week? Where, in the Bahamas? <<sigh>> Until next time... ******************************************** * ATARI'S WEEKEND MADNESS CONTINUES . . . * * * * W E E K 3 - DIE HARDER! * * expires 4:59 PM 3/21/94 (PST) * * * * STARTS 5PM Friday, March 18, 1994 * * * * Watch this space for details. * * * * Keywords: DIEHARD, LYNX, $49 value FREE! * ******************************************** Delphi's Atari Advantage! TOP TEN DOWNLOADS (3/16/94) (1) DATABASE CHANGES (6) REVENGE DOCUMENT DISPLAYER 3.1 *(2) Z*NET #94-02 *(7) ST-ZIP 2.4 FIX (3) WINGLORD *(8) MOUSE-KA-MANIA II VERSION 2.1 (4) WHATIS 6.6 *(9) CLEVELAND FREENET ATARI NEWS *(5) AU! USER GROUP DIRECTORY *(10) DOMARK'S F1 PLAYABLE DEMO * = New on list HONORARY TOP 10 The following on-line magazines are always top downloads, frequently out-performing every other file in the databases. STREPORT (Current issue: STREPORT #10.11) ATARI EXPLORER ONLINE (Current issue: AEO - VOLUME 3, ISSUE 4) Look for the above files in the RECENT ARRIVALS database. ________________________________________ > Diehard Game Fan/Lynx Offer! STR InfoFile """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" ATARI'S WEEKEND MADNESS CONTINUES . . . W E E K 3 - DIE HARDER! expires 4:59 PM 3/21/94 (PST) Online Die-Hards have spoken and they say they like Atari's newest weekend fanatic frenzy hosted by Bob Brodie and Don Thomas of Atari Corporation. By buying, using and promoting Atari products online, Die-Hards benefit from outstanding deals exclusive to online users. Atari benefits from your review of the items you buy and your endorsement of our products. This exchange seems to be working and appreciated by all of you, so let's try it again...! The following offer is available to members of all popular online ser- vices including the Internet and public access BBS's. It is also avail- able to readers of popular online magazines who choose to support their readers by reprinting this offer. FREE _PRIORITY_ FULL YEAR DIEHARD GAME FAN MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION ($49.99 VALUE!) or extension to existing subscription. when you buy any Lynx Cartridge this weekend! Priority means PRIORITY. Issues shipped direct from printer second day service. Get the news before everyone else! SPAN: Offer good from Friday, 3/18/94 5 pm (PST) through Monday, 3/21/94 4:59pm (PST) OFFER: Buy any of Atari's in-stock carts and GET A PRIORITY DIEHARD GAME FAN Subscription for a full year. PLUS: Tell us you have or will test drive the new Atari 64-bit Jaguar game system and you may choose up to 3 more Lynx Carts for 50% off. CHOOSE FROM: see complete list at end of file. We suggest you read this offer carefully! It is packed with Die-Hard savings! If you do not yet own a Lynx, remember Atari is offering 2 free carts with purchase of the $99.99 base system through June 1, 1994. Sorry, we cannot offer DIEHARD GAME FAN subscriptions on base system purchases, but once you have the Lynx, you can go for all the other Lynx deals. WHAT IS A LYNX? Atari(r) Lynx(tm) is the ultimate portable video game machine. It delivers over 4,000 colors, up-to 8-player connectivity potential, 16-bit graphics engine, 3.5" diag. playing screen, hardware scaling, headphone jack, right/left handed controls and lots and lots of cartridges to choose from....Arcade video game fun everywhere you go. WHAT IS DIEHARD GAME FAN? DIEHARD GAME FAN Magazine is the "Next Generation Video Game Magazine" covering the hard news as well as the subtle rumours of the gaming industry. DIEHARD GAME FAN caters to the most avid game players with exclusive game tips, reviews, previews and cover to cover collectable coverage of every popular game system and cartridge available. BLAH, BLAH, BLAH . . . Terms subject to change without notice. Offer valid only to North American locations. Only one free DIEHARD GAME FAN subscription per family/customer/address. Online dealers can participate too. Contact Don Thomas via Email this weekend for details. HOW TO ORDER ATARI CORPORATION OFFERS: (It's easy) 1) Fill out the order template below. 2) a. Fax order to 408/745-2088. (BEST METHOD) b. E-Mail (PRIVATELY) this order to: Don Thomas <75300.1267@compuserve.com> or (75300,1267 on CompuServe) Bob Brodie <bob-brodie@genie.geis.com> c. Call your order to 408/745-2098 (9-5 PST) Note: Phones are often jammed with excited Jaguar callers. Please be patient! FULL NAME TO SHIP: ADDRESS TO SHIP: APARTMENT, SUITE, LOT: CITY, STATE, PROVINCE: POSTAL CODE: DAY PHONE NUMBER: ( ) NIGHT PHONE NUMBER: ( ) ON-LINE SERVICE USED: ON-LINE USER I.D./ADRSS: ----- Complete if first order in 12 months ------- NAME ON CREDIT CARD: MASTERCARD/VISA NUMBER: EXPIRATION DATE: -------------------------------------------------- EDIT ORDER BELOW: DESCRIPTION QTY EACH EXTENDED ================================================ ??????? cartridge 1 $ xx.xx $ xx.xx 1 YEAR GAME FAN SUBSCRIPTION (PRIORITY) FREE ??????? cartridge 1 $ 1/2 OFF xx.xx ??????? cartridge 1 $ 1/2 OFF xx.xx ??????? cartridge 1 $ 1/2 OFF xx.xx ================================================ SUB TOTAL ............................ $ xx.xx CALIFORNIA TAX (8.25% if applicable).. $ 0.00 (multiply subtotal by .0825 round off) SHIPPING & HANDLING* ................. $ 4.95 ================================================== TOTAL (U.S. funds) ................... $ 104.94 *Shipping and handling: $4.95 minimum plus $5 for each increment of $100. TITLES AVAILABLE FROM ATARI . . . $49.99 ====== BATMAN RETURNS NINJA GARDEN III PITFIGHTER $39.99 ====== A. P. B. STEEL TALONS AWESOME GOLF S.T.U.N. RUNNER BASKETBRAWL SUPERSKWEEK BILL & TED'S PINBALL JAM EXCELLENT ADVNTRE TOKI BLUE LIGHTNING TOURNAMENT CYBERBALL CALIFORNIA GAMES TURBO SUB CHECKERED FLAG VIKING CHILD CRYSTAL MINES II WARBIRDS SWITCHBLADE II XYBOTS HARD DRIVIN' DRACULA THE UNDEAD HOCKEY POWER FACTOR HYDRA DINOLYMPICS KUNG FOOD DIRTY LARRY, RENEGADE COP LYNX CASINO WORLD CLASS SOCCER NINJA GARDEN JOUST ROADBLASTERS GORDO 106 SCRAPYARD DOG JIMMY CONNORS TENNIS SHADOW OF THE BEAST LEMMINGS N. F. L. FOOTBALL MALIBU BIKINI VOLLEYBALL $34.99 ====== BASEBALL HEROES RAMPAGE RAMPART RYGAR $29.99 ====== CHIP'S CHALLENGE BLOCKOUT ISHIDO ELECTROCOP MS. PAC-MAN GATES OF ZENDOCON PACLAND GAUNTLET THE THIRD ENCOUNTER PAPERBOY KLAX SHANGHAI ROBO-SQUASH TODD'S ADVENTURE /SLIME WORLD ROBOTRON 2084 XENOPHOBE ZARLOR MERCENARY __________________________________________________ Jaguar Developers Conferences STR InfoFile """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" Atari will be sponsoring a series of Jaguar Developer Conferences begin- ning on March 21-22 in the Bay Area, Northern California (Santa Clara, San Jose, Sunnyvale) site to be determined. It will be a two-day confer- ence of technical information intended for Jaguar licensees who are currently involved in Jaguar programming projects. Other conference sites will be announced but the UK has been confirmed in conjunction with the ECTS show which is April 10-12. Interested develop- ers who are not licensees should contact Atari by fax at 408-745-2088 giving us your mail address, phone, fax, primary company contacts, any relevant experience and planned Jaguar projects. You will need to return a signed license agreement and purchase a Technical Reference guide in order to attend any of the conferences. Reference manuals are $299 which is applicable towards purchase of a development system. Other conference sites tentatively planned are Chicago and Texas. ___________________________________________________ > The Old Fishin' Hole STR Feature """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" THE OLD FISHIN' HOLE ==================== -A Guide to the Online PD/Shareware Waters. While fishing the online waters this week, I started to get a bit depressed. Although I caught several small guppies...that giant bass that I've been dreaming of just never seemed to surface. But suddenly, and without notice, my line tightened...and after a long struggle I reeled her in. That's right...I had finally caught that one fish that made the entire trip worthwhile. In this week's column I'll take a quick glance at a couple of smaller programs that surfaced this time around as well as a look at the return of an all-time favorite which is sure to put that sparkle back into your Atari computer. First up is a small accessory from Europe called "The Ultimate Tracker". This is yet another SoundTracker module player for the STe and Falcon series of Atari computers. It has the standard options of load, play, fast-forward, rewind, pause, and kill. On a Falcon the buttons take on a 3-D appearance...something other Falcon programmers should take note of. The accessory will also play the desired module in one of several Khz settings (which alter the clarity of playback) set by the user. While "The Ultimate Tracker" is far from 'ultimate', it does a wonderful job of playing single SoundTracker modules in the background while working on other applications. Some features I miss that would make the accessory top notch are a jukebox mode (to play those many megs of modules non-stop) and an instrument list display. Perhaps a better name would have been "The Mediocre Tracker". The next program in line is for Falcons only. It is a 3D2 object viewer called "3Danimation" (I suppose...the docs never really state the name) by a group in Belgium. 3D2 files are those which are created by applications like "Cyber Studio" and are representations for 3-dimensional objects. The viewer program first presents the user with a file selector to load the desired 3D2 object. After a short time (_very short_) the program displays the object in the center of the screen, fully shaded with a proper light source, ready to allow the user to rotate it in real time with the mouse. The DSP in the Falcon is utilized for sorting,rotating, and filling the objects faces and is _very_ efficient. There are only two drawbacks to the program. First, the file selector has a nasty bug which makes it not totally appear sometimes. Second, only small files (7l or less) can be loaded. This leaves out many of the excellent 3D2 files on the Internet which are considerably larger and more complicated. The included readme file states that the programmers are well into an updated version of the program...I for one can hardly wait! The last package I want to talk about this week is called "Mouse-Ka-Mania II" by Charles F. Johnson (I saved the best for last). The original "Mouse-Ka-Mania", written seven years ago, was the best custom mouse editor and installer known to the Atari world. This update fixes some of the compatibility problems of the classic version (after all, it is hard to foresee how the new computers were to be designed) and adds a few features. "Mouse-Ka-Mania II" is installed as a desk accessory in any resolution with a horizontal pixel count of 640 or greater. Once loaded, the user can load and design custom mice...either single framed or animated! Included with the archive is a plethora of new and exciting mouse shapes...there's almost no incentive to create your own...it seems Charles has thought of everything. But if you do wish to take the time to create your own shapes a full set of editing tools and functions are at your disposal. Any and all of the standard mouse shapes can be changed and the resulting alterations may be saved to an auto folder file to be loaded upon bootup (thus making the accessory only necessary for editing). Mouse data may also be exported for those who like to use them in their own programs. The only flaw with the accessory involves switching resolutions...DON'T DO IT! Mr. Johnson explains the reasons and theories behind the bug in the entertaining documentation. I could go on and on about how "Mouse-Ka-Mania II" really adds that extra pizazz to those sometimes dull computing sessions. Don't delay...download this great program (and register it too! I know I'm saving my dollars to register), install it, and have a blast! That's all for this week...hopefully there's a program that sounds interesting enough to download. They just don't get any better than "Mouse-Ka-Mania II". Join me again next week...same time...same place. +----------------------------------------------------------------+ | Old Fishin Hole Tackle Box * | +----------------------------------------------------------------+ | The Ultimate Tracker | | Delphi: Atari Advantage Area - READ ULTIMATE | | | | 3D Animation Viewer | | Delphi: Atari Advantage Area - READ FALCON .3D2 | | | | Mouse-Ka-Mania II | | Delphi: Atari Advantage Area - READ MOUSE-KA | | GEnie: Atari ST RT - # 32206 | | CompuServe: AtariPro - MKM221.ZIP (library 4) | +----------------------------------------------------------------+ * The Tackle Box is meant to provide assistance in finding files mentioned in the column. It should not be considered a COMPLETE listing and is provided for convenience only. Delphi Atari Advantage files should be found in the Recent Arrivals section of the database until moved to their appropriate sections. _________________________________________ > ONLINE WEEKLY STReport OnLine The wires are a hummin'! """"""""""""""""""""""""""""" PEOPLE... ARE TALKING ===================== On CompuServe ------------- compiled by Joe Mirando Well folks, its time again to look in on all the cool stuff that's going on over on CompuServe. But before we do that, I'd like to vent just a bit of steam about our favorite computer company. A few years ago, Atari decided to design a couple of new computers. The first was the ST Book. It was basically an 8.5" by 11" notebook computer based on the STe design. It had great battery life, but had a non-backlit monochrome display, no monitor port, and no internal floppy drive. Needless to say, Atari had gone a bit too far extending battery life. The second computer that Atari designed was the STYLUS, or ST Pad. This is the one that has given me the need to blow off some steam. The STYLUS was an ST-compatible computer that could accept text written on the LCD display. The hand-writing recognition was said to be very good and, because it would run most ST software, there would have been much more software available for it than any of the current PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), which also use handwriting recognition. PDAs are all the rage today. Companies that market them now include Apple, Sharp, Casio, Tandy, and AT&T. None of these pocket sized computers will accept existing programs, nor is the handwriting recognition on any of them any better than that of the STYLUS. Clearly, Atari could have grabbed a lion's share of the now-substantial PDA market. In their infinite wisdom Atari decided that the world was not ready for a computer that could recognize writing instead of text input from a keyboard. Apple, on the other hand, was so sure that the world was ready for it that they actually paid a licensing fee to Nabisco to be able to use the name Apple Newton. Of course, we have all heard of the Newton. That's because the Newton has been "hyped". And we all know how Atari feels about advertising, don't we? Well, now that I've gotten that off of my chest, let's get on with the column... From the Atari Productivity Forum ================================= Greg Kopchak tells us: "We have a disc of the month for Atari users. January was GEMINI CD by Walnut Creek, February was Photo CD Sampler - Volume 1, March is Project Gutenburg. There are thousands of discs that can be used with your machine. We are planning to offer the best of what is available to Atari users at special prices every month. Stay tuned to see what disc is next. Got a couple of super discs lined up for the coming months." Jonnie "new modem" Santos tells Greg: "You know I get CD catalogs at work and at home and I usually toss them out because I previously thought there was no point because I didn't know about CD-ROM compatibility. I've been getting some help here and I'm getting more interested." Brian Gockley of ST Informer tells Greg: "A disk of the month in CD format? What a great idea! Now I'm really tempted. to get a CD-ROM!" Greg tells Brian: "That's the whole idea of "CD of the Month". It's All Relative, Compo, DMC, Anodyne Software, ICD, and others currently offer CD rom drivers or include a driver with some of their software." Steve Sathue asks Nick Coady: "What was the tip you got for converting Atari files to PC files (i.e. how can you read Atari formatted disks on the PC?). I'd like to convert some work in STWriter Elite (Atari) to WordPerfect (PC)." Nick tells Steve: "I have to say at this stage that I'm a complete novice at this, but it would appear that if you find a way of saving your word processor files to disk in ASCII format (read your software manual!) they will load up perfectly well on a pc, with no need to use separately formatted disks or whatever. I have discovered that files saved on a program called "ST WORD" (on the Atari) will load into the pc with no problems if they are saved onto disk as ASCII files. Astounding, but true!!!! Does this help?" Brian Robson tells us: "I have a friend in Germany who is on the German 'MausNet' network (which is very heavily, if not exclusively as far as I understand it, concerned with Atari) and he says that he often sees messages from CompuServe users in the message bases. Is there a way to access 'MausNet' from CompuServe?" Sysop Ron Luks tells Brian: "Nope. No way to link to MausNet from CompuServe directly at this time." Lexicor's Yat Siu tells Ron and Brian: "Actually, that is not correct :), there IS a way to connect into MausNet i.e. send mail to the MausNet from CompuServe via the Internet. The message delay however would be tremendous as it would be going through the Internet as well...about a 3 day delay...still faster than regular snail mail though <g>. I am not to sure about the implementation, here's what I think it should be from CompuServe: INTERNET: test_person@ort.maus.de , now the _ort_ is the location where the maus box is, i.e. a2w or w2 is in Vienna etc. etc. test_person is just a dummy name of course :)" Ron tells Yat: "Thanks, Yat. I said there is no direct access to MAUSNET but you can reach many systems (at least EMAIL) via Internet links." Sysop Jim Ness joins the discussion and posts: "Many BBS networks are available via Internet, so I suspect that what you heard about are CIS Mail/Internet messages. There is no other way to access external systems on CIS." In response to a question about the voice mail capabilities of fax modems, Charles Smeton of NewSTar Technology tells Jonnie Santos: "I would recommend asking Supra about expansion capabilities in their FAX Modems to support Voice Mail. Supra provides support in the Modem Vendor Forum (GO MODEMVEN)." Jonnie gives voice to my first thought: "OOooh, voice mail on an ST? I'll wander over!" Charles tells Jonnie: "While FAX Modems may be capable of Voice Mail, it will also require special software to be developed on the Atari to allow for a Voice Mail/Digital Answering Machine operation. This was the exact case with faxing, which is why we developed STRAIGHT FAX!" Jonnie just can't leave the idea alone (neither can I) as he asks Charles: "Do you know if anyone is interested in developing voice mail software for the Atari?" Charles tells Jonnie: "I have heard a few rumblings about a Voice Mail product being developed for the Falcon030, but not all Atari computer models. There is also the Black Mail Voice Mail system for the Falcon030 that Atari had announced last year, but I have not heard about when it was supposed to be released." Ian Braby asks Charles: "...Which is best Class 1 or Class 2? However, I got no reply from you, so I will ask you again, in open forum, given the choice with my SupraFAX v.32bis modem, which should you default to, Class 1 or Class 2? And what, in layman's terms, is the basic difference between the two?" Charles tells Ian: "Class 1 is an official EIA standard. The Class 2 in use is not an official EIA standard. The official EIA Class 2 was confirmed long after the Class 2 in use was released. The official Class 2 is known as Class 2.0, to avoid confusion. The only Class 2.0 FAX Modem we know of is a US Robotics Courier FAX Modem. STraight FAX! does not support Class 2.0 at this time. Class 1 has a simple command set extension to the AT commands. It relies on the host computer software to do all the protocol and timing required by CCITT Group 3 FAX. The Class 1 commands facilitate the computer to send data or receive data and to send commands or send commands to/from the external FAX at a specified FAX baud rate. Due to the timing being done in the computer, Class 1 is not as popular in multitasking systems, such as UNIX. Class 2 implements the CCITT protocol and timing in the FAX Modem. There are still timing constraints by the host computer, but they are not as severe as in Class 1. The advantage of Class 2 is that an expert at the chipset vendor company wrote the Group 3 FAX handler. The disadvantage is that if there is a problem with a particular FAX machine in connecting, there is very little the host software can do to recover. However, most FAX Modem vendors, such as Supra update the modem firmware when there are problems. The advantage of Class 1 is that a problem can be corrected by a software update to the host FAX software (i.e. STraight FAX!). The disadvantage is the timing constraints, i.e. Class 1 is not recommended under MultiTOS, unless you have a 68030 CPU. STraight FAX! supports both Class 1 and Class 2. In v2.10, STraight FAX! even allows the user to use one Class for sending and another for receiving, as long as the FAX Modem supports both. Which one will work better depends on the computer setup, phone line, FAX Modem and FAX Machines called most often. You can get more details on Class 1 vs. Class 2 by contacting Supra or another FAX Modem vendor directly in the Modem Vendor forum (GO MODEMVEN). In layman's terms, Class 1 is a manual transmission, Class 2 is an automatic transmission. Both allow driving the same highways. Class 1 and in a manual transmission requires extra knowledge by the host computer software/driver. BTW, I think that there is also an explanation of Class 1 vs. Class 2 on the Toad BBS and in the SYSINFO.ZIP archive here on CIS for our SysInfo program." Carl Barron asks Charles about STraight FAX: "Not much is recommended under MultiTOS without an 030, and a fairly fast one too! In case of problem can a I 'downshift' my class 2 modem to act as a class 1?" Charles tells Carl: "Yes, STraight FAX! supports easy switching between Class 1 and Class 2 FAX Modes. Its as simple as changing a parameter in a popup menu. As of version 2.10, you can even use one Class for sending and another Class for receiving. This is something that is unique to STraight FAX!, as most "other" platform FAX programs install for one particular Class at a time." Jonnie talks a bit more about modems and such: "I thought we can do 57.6k with v.42bis? I mean if two computers using equivalent modems were connected that is. Hmmm... 28.8k ? This must be some version of V.FAST, eh? I have access to a Mac and PC (oh lucky me) but they're not really mine so other than use them I could really feel comfortable hacking around on a PC that's not mine - my point being is that I don't think either of those platforms has the 19.2k speed limit like my STe does. I watched my partner download over 1 meg using pcANYWHERE from his work PC in 2 minutes at 38,400. In contrast I uploaded that Lexicor demo for the TT you submitted to my local Atari BBS and I must of been online a good 45 minutes (file size = 1.3m @ 14.4k). But I was using XMODEM 1K which I think is a little slow which probably didn't help. Ironically, I would of never even thought of getting a file that big with my old 2400 - shows you how fast I can become jaded!!!" Sysop Jim Ness tells Jonnie: "Yes, v.42bis would be the most likely route to 57,600 since there aren't any consumer modems in the wings for that speed. But, remember that compression only works on text files. And, to be honest, it'll be awhile before CIS can pump text that fast anyway. Compression wouldn't be enabled until CIS felt comfortable about the results. Also, there are very few machines capable of accepting data at that rate. I know an ST won't. A TT or accelerated MegaSTe (with higher speed ports) MAY be able to handle it. The data would come in safely, but it would just get stored until the machine had time to get to it. Flow control would be used, and the result is you wouldn't truly be getting a high data rate. For now, 14400 seems darn fast, doesn't it?" Jonnie tells Jim: "re: 14.4k being "Darn" fast It (14.4k) does seem fast to the ol' 2400 but I think speed is addicting. You know I was really surprised how much faster response time is with the new hard disk versus my old one. We use DEC's ALL-IN-1 office automation software at my job and I tell you nothing can be slower than being tied into a darn network that just crawls when it's close to capacity. Something that does concern me though from time to time about the speed at which things (computers, technology, my life) run is that there may be a chance that life would be more enjoyable if it were to slow down a bit. And my fear is that I may be incapable of slowing down without feeling depressed or as if something was wrong." Oh well..." Sysop Ron Luks tells Jonnie: "You have to be very careful when talking about modem speeds because the advertisements from modem manufacturers are so misleading. There are no 57.6 modems or 57.6 kbps connections available to you today. Period. However, using COMPRESSION techniques, you can send a file faster than in uncompressed format. (That makes obvious sense). Lets say you have a big text file that you can transfer at 9600 bps in 8 minutes. If you compress this file by a factor of 4:1, then transfer the COMPRESSED file, the transfer will only take 2 minutes. You are still connected at 9600 bps. However, they imply that it is the same as transferring the UNCOMPRESSED version of the file at 4x the speed. They call this an "effective" transfer rate of 38,400 bps. Did you just do a 38.4kpbs transfer? Of course not. You just did a 9600 bps transfer of a compressed file. In actual fact, few files achieve the ideal 4:1 compression ratio. ZIP, ARC, LZH files are already compressed and you achieve very little, if any, further advantage by trying to compress them with the hardware compression protocols built into the modem." Jonnie sums up what Ron's post in his own words: "Okay, I get it. Then in the "Best case" scenario I would have a text file saved without compression. Then I would send it to another system/modem with v.42bis and although the data stream was only cranking at 9600 (or 14.4k ?) the time that would be reduced in transmission would covert to a possible equivalent of 57.6k. But the data stream itself never sees 57.6k. I watch the cps counts when I'm downloading here and it usually runs from the low 700's to a tad over 800. I think I get faster times with ASCII files if I remember right - I mean getting a bunch of mail that is. PS - I got another CIS VISA ad in my mail today. I'm almost considering it just to have the CIS logo on the card. Kind of Technoid Chic, eh?" From the Atari ST Arts Forum ============================ Matthew Scott asks: "Can anyone tell me how I can get a hold of the last version of the now defunct LDWPOWER spreadsheet? I bought the rev 1.0 version 2 or 3 years ago and finally would like to have the last version? Appreciate any leads," Dan Parrish tells Matt: "Frank Stallings at Far North Atari in Fairbanks Alaska has at least one more copy of the latest release of LDWPOWER. His telephone number is (907) 456-3700, the hours are (I believe) 11am to 7pm Alaska Time (which is four hours behind Eastern Standard Time. I use LDW a fair amount, but I am about to jump to anything else that would be more compatible with the latest LOTUS 1-2-3 release and/or Excel." Matt tells Dan: "Thanks a bunch. By the way, do you know if the last version of LDW can print a file to disk in DIF format?" Dan tells Matt: "You bet it can Matt, BTW if you happen to need more powerful graphing capabilities that LDW can do there is another program called First Graph that is pretty good. It has problems with LDW ASCII files but apparently has no problem with LDW DIF files. I am afraid that I haven't had a good chance to put my copy of First Graph through its paces." Someone named Robert asks: "I have an Atari 1040 ST at work and I need to replace its external disc drive. I also need software to balance our checkbook, calculate employee hours and manage our inventory. Any suggestions?" John Damiano tells Robert: "I think there is shareware/PD stuff in the lib on here that will do all that. Browse around using payroll, inventory, checking as keywords and you will probably find what you need." John at Missionware Software, who works for CBS who sent him to Norway to show the rest of the crew how to transmit the whole affair into our living rooms, is now back safely. John Damiano at Transierra welcomes him back: "Welcome back to the World, Looked like a great event." John at Missionware tells John at Transierra: "Thanks. It's good to be back. I must admit though - I really did like Norway. It's a very peaceful little country!" Jim Ness reminds John: "Sure, Norway is a nice peaceful country these days. But, 10 years ago, it was spitting distance from the nasty communists, and scheduled to be one of the first countries overrun." John at Missionware tells Jim: "Quite true Jim, and the Norwegians are *very much* aware of their situation. Interestingly, almost everywhere I travelled, there were "holes in the mountains" with thick steel doors just waiting to do duty in case of a war or takeover. Gjovik, the site of one of the new hockey stadiums used for the Olympics, is actually a huge bomb shelter. I had a chance to tour the Gjovik site before the games began, and what first caught my attention was the foot or so thick steel doors one had to pass through in order to get into the stadium. Very impressive (and scary). The building I worked in most of the time in Lillehammer also had a bomb shelter of sorts in the basement. Although everything was wide open, there again were huge steel doors all over the place. The main entrance to the CBS area from the main floor could be closed off in an instant by a huge steel and cement door, again at least a foot thick." Mike Jones asks about a problem he's having with Spectre GCR, the Mac emulator from Gadgets by Small: "I have an Atari ST that I upgraded to 2MB (using the old piggyback chip method - ugh). I had Spectre 2.65 that worked fine. After upgrading to 3.0 (?), the ST locks up with a few random pixel droppings on the screen when I attempt to boot Spectre. I cannot go back to 2.65 because I reformatted the HD to use the latest Mac partitioning info (I believe that's why I can' go back). All memory testing utils return correct info of 2MB and it never locks up. BTW, I am using System 6.0.5. Also, I am having trouble with floppies. I often put a Mac disk in the machine and find that the disk is "locked," even though the disk isn't physically write-protected. After the lock message appears, many files on the disk get munged (sometimes no files, sometimes all files)." Mark at Gadgets by Small tells Mike: "I suspect you have an ICD hard disk drive. Or, at least, an ICD host adapter in your hard disk. If that be the case, you need to contact ICD about a little modification that you need to make to your host adapter to eliminate the "turds" on-screen problem. This is a well known and documented problem with certain ICD host adapters. If you >don't< have an ICD hard drive and/or ICD host adapter then I would try booting Spectre with the 832K memory size selected. Let me know the results." Mike tells Mark: "Thanks a lot. After sending the message, I noticed that I forgot to include the 50MB ICD hard drive I have on the system. I will call them and get an update. PS - any clues on the floppy disk problem??" Mark replies: "I'm racking my brain trying to remember what might be causing the "locked disk" syndrome. I seem to remember someone mentioning that particular problem (and a solution) but I can't seem to recall the situation. I'll look through my notes and see if I can find the information." Well, that's it for this week kiddies. Be sure to tune in again next week and listen to what they are saying when... PEOPLE ARE TALKING """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STReport's "EDITORIAL CARTOON" """""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > A "Quotable Quote" More signs of the times.... """"""""""""""""" "FAR TOO MANY PROFESSIONALS ARE VERY BUSY PROVING THEY ARE..... WHILE TRUE PROFESSIONALS SIMPLY ARE!" "YOU CAN'T DEPEND ON YOUR EYES WHEN YOUR IMAGINATION IS OUT OF FOCUS." - Mark Twain """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > DEALER CLASSIFIED LIST STR InfoFile * Dealer Listings * """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" --------------- ABCO Incorporated ================= P.O. Box 6672 Jacksonville, Florida 32221-6155 Est. 1985 1-904-783-3319 1994 SPRING SPECIALS NOW IN EFFECT! ------------------------ ABCO manufactures custom storage devices! INTEL 32 BIT 486[DX]33-66 Tower P24T READY (HAS ZIF SOCKET) PLUG-IN UPGRADABLE (easy) 8MB ram upgradable to 32MB 1MB SVGA VESA VIDEO CARD Sound Blaster Compatible Stereo Sound Card DOS 6.2 - Windows 3.11 Included 128K CACHE - 1.44/1.2 FLOPPY Drives, Mouse & 101 deluxe Keyboard 250MB IDE hd - 2 SERIAL, 1 PARALLEL, 1 GAME PORTS 250W POWER SUPPLY TOWER SYSTEM 14" Non-Interlaced SVGA 1024x768, 28dpi Monitor 33Mhz ver. S&H Incl 1295.00 495.00 with order, balance COD other higher powered packages available or, design your own! Call for value added pricing! Call: 904-783-3319 Anytime, Voice Mail =====******===== Syquest Removable 44-105-270mb SCSI Drives All Size Platters Available Diamond Speed Star 24x SVGA/VGA Video Card w/1mbVRAM Diamond Stealth & Viper 1mb & 2mb - Call for prices Enhances Windows SPEED and EFFICIENCY Diamond High Performance Sound Cards Available Soundblaster Cards and compatibles 8 & 16 bit Pro Audio Spectrum STUDIO 16 - 16bit - Midi - Audio Recognition Top of the Media Vision PAS Line - True Multi-Media IDE Super IO cards & 16550 UART 2 & 4 Port Cards Call: 904-783-3319 Anytime, Voice Mail """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" COMPUTER STUDIO =============== WESTGATE SHOPPING CENTER 40 Westgate Parkway -Suite D Asheville, NC 28806 1-800-253-0201 Orders Only 1-704-251-0201 Information FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" EAST HARTFORD COMPUTER ====================== 202 Roberts St. East Hartford CT. 06108 1-203-528-4448 FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" MEGABYTE COMPUTERS ================== 907 Mebourne Hurst, TX 76053 1-817-589-2950 FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" SAN JOSE COMPUTER ================= 1278 Alma Court San Jose, CA. 95112 1-408-995-5080 FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" CompuSeller West ================ 220-1/2 W. 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