home
***
CD-ROM
|
disk
|
FTP
|
other
***
search
/
High Voltage Shareware
/
high1.zip
/
high1
/
DIR24
/
LWB1.ZIP
/
LWMAN.INF
(
.txt
)
< prev
next >
Wrap
OS/2 Help File
|
1993-05-24
|
80KB
|
2,042 lines
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 1. LiveWire Communications 2.1 Copyrights ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2. User Manual ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.1. Introduction ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Introduction
Welcome
Welcome to LiveWire Communications, a communications program tailored with
the user in mind. LiveWire Communications is an easy to use, full featured
communications package. Whether you are a novice or expert LiveWire will
take only a few moments to set up.
Features
Since LiveWire is so easy to use experienced computer users will find this
manual more useful as an occasional reference. However, use of a manual in
this fashion does introduce the new features of a program. Listed below are
special features of LiveWire discussed in detail later in the manual.
+ Automatic detection and installation of external protocols. Puma, MPt,
Lynx, Jmodem, Punter, Bimodem, and Super Zmodem are currently hard-coded.
External protocols to be installed automatically may also be defined in a
simple text file format. If external protocol vendors begin including an
auto-install file, installation of a new external protocol could become a
trivial task requiring little or no documentation.
+ Support for Procomm+, Qmodem, Boyan, Telix, and LiveWire keysets. This
feature is meant to decrease the time required to learn LiveWire by
providing familiar key-command definitions. LiveWire does not attempt to
emulate any of these alternate communications programs.
+ Macro commands control the actions of most function or alternate keys,
and all keys are re-definable.
+ The command screen is dynamic. For example, if you change the key that
activates the dialer to be F1 instead of ALT-D, the change will appear in
the menu. In addition the command screen allows you change keysets and
redefine command keys from the main command screen. No separate
configuration menu for keys is required, although it is included.
+ Point and shoot dialing directory with superior editing facilities
+ Dialing directory reads and writes Procomm, Procomm+, Qmodem 4.x, Qmodem
5.0, Boyan, and Telix dialing directories automatically
+ A sophisticated file management system is included
- Tree-like representation of directories
- Directory change/create/delete
- Up to 500 files per directory can be viewed with the file manager
- Delete/Copy/Execute/Rename/View file(s)
- Automatic viewing of ZIP file contents
- Transfer time estimates
+ IEMSI support. IEMSI is a protocol for transparent automatic logins to
bulletin boards. This new protocol, transparent to the user, is supported
by Remote Access and QuickBBS bulletin board systems.
+ Avatar 0+ terminal emulation support. Bulletin boards that support this
protocol can get a 200% increase in speed over the traditional ANSI
emulation.
+ Internal public domain Zmodem-32.
+ Support for networked modems: INT 14h API support. This will work with
Banyan VINES, Novell Netware, and other networks. Full Novell NASI support
may be added in the future. If you are using LiveWire and would like to see
full Novell NASI support, contact the author. Full Novell NASI support
allows you to choose which modem to use within LiveWire and avoids having
to pick one using NetWare before loading LiveWire.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.2. Installation ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Installation
If you have LiveWire distribution diskettes you want to install from insert
disk #1 into drive A. At the DOS prompt type INSTALL. For example:
C:\>A:
A:\>INSTALL
The installation program will ask you which drive you want to install
LiveWire on. After you choose a hard drive to install on it will proceed to
install the files onto your hard drive in the \LW2 directory.
If you have the ZIPed version of LiveWire available on bulletin boards,
unzip the distribution ZIPs into a directory, preferably \LW2.
Running LiveWire for the first time
After installation, follow these
easy steps to start and configure
LiveWire.
Change to the drive LiveWire is on
Type CD \LW2 and press ENTER
Type LW and then press ENTER
The first time LiveWire is
started you will have to tell it a few
things about your computer setup. The
first thing you must specify is which
communications port your modem is on.
If you do not know which port your
modem is on you must refer to your modem or computer manual for this
information. Move the highlight bar to the correct communications port using the
right and left arrow keys. Press ENTER when you've made your selection.
LiveWire will then attempt to determine the highest speed the modem talks
with your computer at. Your modem's highest speed may be faster than the
transmission speed. For example, many 2400b d modems today will talk with your
computer at 4800 bps but still only transmit and receive information at 2400
bps. If LiveWire detects a speed that seems too high or too low for your modem
use the right and left arrow keys to move the highlight bar to an acceptable
speed, then press ENTER.
Next, choose whether your screen is black and white or color by using the
arrow keys to move the highlight bar to the correct option, then press ENTER.
You'll now be asked if you wish to emulate the keyset of several popular
communications programs. If you are not familiar with any of these programs just
press ENTER. If you want to emulate another program's keyset then use the right
arrow key to move the highlight bar to the program of your choice and press
ENTER.
Lastly you will be asked if you want to do some further configuration or if
you want to load LiveWire at this point. To load LiveWire without any further
configuration press ENTER. Otherwise press the right arrow key once to move the
highlight bar to Edit Configuration and then press ENTER.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.3. Configuration ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Configuration
Using pull-down menus
LiveWire makes use of pull-down
menus in it's configuration. Pull-down
menus are designed for ease of use and
brevity. Across the top of the screen
are several categories:
Using the right and left arrow
keys on your keyboard you can move the
highlight bar from one category to the
next.
Pressing the ENTER key on one of
these categories "pulls down" a menu
pertaining to that category.
As on the right, if you press ENTER while the highlight bar is on the Modem
category, a menu appears directly under the category. In this new menu are two
options -- Port Configuration... and Modem Commands... The "..." at the end of
these options indicate they lead to additional nested menus.
Pressing the up and down arrow keys moves the highlight bar vertically
between the two options. Pressing ENTER on one of these options leads to yet
another nested menu.
Under "Modem Commands..." is the final menu in the menu nest. Listed in
this menu are the several options for modem commands. Again, using the up and
down arrows moves the highlight bar among the options. To change one of these
options, move the highlight bar to the option and press ENTER. A cursor will
appear at the beginning of the option with which you can edit the option to your
preference. When you are done editing this option, press ENTER and the cursor
will disappear.
Backing up to a previous menu is easy and can be done by pressing the Esc
key on the upper left hand area of your keyboard. Make sure you're not editing
an option when you press ESC.
If you get stuck or need a little instruction, there is one line of
context-sensitive help available at the bottom of each screen called the status
line. The status line contains status information and a list of available
options.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.3.1. Port Configuration ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Port Configuration...
This selection leads you to a menu where you
may change any of the options below.
Communications port
Selecting this option allows you to
select the communications port
number your modem is using. Refer
to your modem, computer, or
communications port manual for this
information. It will not hurt to
try numbers successively from 1
until your modem dials
successfully.
Baud rate
Selecting this option allows you to edit the speed your modem will
operate at. This value can be anywhere from 110 to 115200. More common
values of the baud rate are 1200, 2400, 4800, and 9600, 19200, and
38400. If LiveWire is unable to detect your modem's baud rate, and you
are unsure of the baud rate, check your modem manual for help.
Data Bits
Selecting this option switches the data bits to 7 or 8. IBM PC systems
use 8 bits to communicate. Using a 7 bits is required by older
hardware and mainframes. If 8 bits are used, the Parity setting must
be None. If 7 bits are used, the Parity setting can be None, Even, or
Odd.
Parity
Selecting this option switches the parity to None, Even, or Odd.
Parity is a form of error detection used by modems that communicate
using 7 data bits. Since only 7 of a possible 8 data bits are used in
a 7 bit communications session, the extra bit is used for error
detection. There are three forms of this error protection LiveWire
supports: None, Even, or Odd. Unfortunately, once an error has been
detected, there is no way to correct it. Note that when I say error I
mean garbled information produced from static or other noise caused by
the phone lines.
Stopbits
Selecting this option switches the number is stopbits to 1 or 2.
Stopbits are extra bits at the end of each series of 8 bits that
indicate the end of the series of bits. Most computer systems use 1
stop bit, although some require 2.
Locked Port
Selecting this option turns the locked port option off or on. If your
modem has data compression you will want to turn this option on as
well as telling your modem that you are using a locked port. Here is
why: Most modems are "smart." When they connect to another computer
they return a message to LiveWire indicating the speed at which they
connect. For example a modem may return CONNECT 2400. When the dialer
receives this message, LiveWire normally resets the communications
parameters to communicate at 2400 bps. While this is fine for modems
without error compression, modems with data compression are able to
boost transmission speeds beyond 2400 bps. For example, if your modem
compresses a 2400 bps transfer by a factor of 2 then your actual
transmission rate is twice that -- 4800 bps. Without a locked port
LiveWire limits the connection to 2400 bps and no speed advantage is
gained. Turning the Locked Port option ON prevents LiveWire from
interpreting the modem's CONNECT 2400 message. Setting the Baud Rate
option above to 4800 then allows greater throughput. You must also set
an option on your modem to lock the port. For information on how to do
this, consult your modem manual.
Network
Selecting this option toggles between no network and INT 14h network.
This API network service provides access to modem pools. Modems in the
modem pool are not connected directly to the computer but are instead
managed by the network. Any computer on the network may connect and
use one of the modems in the modem pool. LiveWire does have support
for selecting which modem on the network your computer will use. To do
this, first run your network utility to select a modem and open a
session. Then load LiveWire with the Network option set appropriately.
Addresses & IRQs...
LiveWire comes configured correctly for ports 1
through 4 on an ISA PC. If you need to use more
than 4 communications ports or you have a special
configuration you may set the hexadecimal port
address and IRQ for each communications port.
Selecting this option pops up another menu
containing specifications for up to 8
communications ports.
COMx Address
This is the address of communications
port x in hexadecimal. Do not change
this option unless you understand what
you are doing.COMx IRQ
This option toggles between IRQ 3 and IRQ 4 for
communications port x. Do not change this option unless you
understand what you are doing.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.3.2. Modem Commands ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Modem Commands
This selection leads you to a menu where
you may change any of the options below.
Modem Initialization
Selecting this option allows you to
change the modem initialization
which is sent to the modem every
time you start LiveWire. It is, by
default:
AT E1
Here are some other options you can add to the end of the string that
work with most hayes-compatible modems:
E1 Set echo keystrokes on
Q0 Quiet mode off
M0 Modem speaker off
V1 Verbose responses (such as CONNECT, BUSY)
S7=60 Set dial timeout to 60
X3 1200 baud busy signal/no dial tone checking
X4 2400 baud busy signal/no dial tone checking
&C1 Return correct online/offline status
There are many more commands the modem understands. The commands
listed above are for 1200 and 2400 baud hayes compatible modems. Most
modems are hayes compatible, or at least partially compatible. I
cannot provide a complete list of modem commands since they do vary
from modem to modem. If need be, review your modem's options in your
modem manual. If you have a high speed or data compression modem make
sure you read the manual to get the most out of your modem. It should
have a list and description of all supported modem commands.
Modem Dial Prefix
Selecting this option allows you to change the dial command prefix.
This is the command is required to initiate dialing of the phone. It
is set to be ATDT by default, which means "ATtention, Dial Tone." If
you have a pulse dial (rotary) phone, change this to ATDP, which
stands for "ATtention, Dial Pulse."
Modem Dial Postfix
Selecting this option allows you to change the dial command postfix.
Normally, this is just the ENTER key, which sends the command. The
ENTER key is ^M for Control-M. Modem Hangup Command
Selecting this option allows you to change the hangup command. The
hangup command for hayes compatible modems is ^~^~^~+++~^~^~^ATH0^M,
which translates to:
^~^~^~ Pause for 1.5 seconds (each ^~ is .5 seconds)
+++ Puts the modem in command mode
^~^~^~ Pause for 1.5 seconds
ATH0 Attention, hang up
^M ENTER key (to send modem command)
NOTE: Before sending the modem hangup string LiveWire lowers the DTR
signal. This will make many modems immediately hang up the phone. If
this causes the modem to go off-hook, LiveWire does not send the
hangup command.
Connect message
Selecting this option allows you to tell LiveWire what your modem
responds with when it connects with another computer. Hayes modems
return CONNECT. Hayes smart modems will return the speed of connection
along with the CONNECT response. (EG: CONNECT 2400). LiveWire is smart
enough to understand these responses. You can prevent LiveWire from
interpreting the bps rate following the connect message by turning the
locked port option on.
Unable to connect #1,2,3,4
Selecting these options allows you to tell LiveWire what messages your
modem may return if it is unable to reach the number you have dialed.
Modem error message
Selecting this option allows you to tell LiveWire what error message
the modem sends if something has gone wrong. It is simply ERROR for
Hayes compatible modems.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.3.3. Defaults ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Defaults
Echo Keystrokes
Selecting this option turns LiveWire's echo
(display) of your keystrokes on or off. In
terminal mode, if you press a key, LiveWire
normally does not print the key on the screen.
It relies on either the modem or the system you
are calling to do this. However, in some cases
you may want LiveWire to echo the keys back to
you. In such a case you would turn Echo
Keystrokes to ON.
Add linefeeds
Selecting this option makes LiveWire either add linefeeds or not add
line feeds to carriage returns. Normally, the modem or the other
system you call will automatically drop down a line (linefeed) as well
as carriage return (move the cursor to the beginning of the line).
However, some systems only send carriage returns and expect LiveWire
to add the linefeeds. In this case, Add linefeeds should be on.
Backspace is DEL
Turning on this option makes LiveWire send a DEL character when the
BackSpace key is pressed. Many dial-in services use DEL as a backspace
character. If your BackSpace key does not work, try turning this
option on.
line Wrap
Turning this option on makes LiveWire automatically wrap to the next
line when column 80 of your screen has been reached. If line wrap is
off the cursor remains at column 80 until a newline character is sent.
Line wrap is OFF by default in the VT-100 emulation and ON by default
in the ANSI emulation.
XON/XOFF flow control
Selecting this option turns the XON/XOFF flow control protocol on or
off. When XON/XOFF flow control is on, the receiving computer can send
a command called XOFF to your computer that will stop transmission
temporarily. When the receiving computer catches up, it sends an XON
command, which resumes transmissions. This is used when the computer
is receiving information too quickly to be processed. If flow control
is on and your computer receives the XOFF command, your keyboard will
not work until XON is received. If you wish to override this, press
the ESC key.
RTS/CTS flow control
Selecting this option turns the RTS/CTS flow control protocol on or
off. The RTS/CTS protocol serves the same purpose as the XON/XOFF flow
control but is more effective and more widely used. Flow control is
managed by the hardware at the UART level instead of sending commands.
This option should remain on for most modems, especially if you have a
high speed modem. Without RTS/CTS flow control you may loose large
chunks of information while communicating at high speeds.
BIOS screen writes
Selecting this option turns BIOS screen writes either on or off.
Normally LiveWire uses direct screen writes (ie: when BIOS screen
writes are off), which are faster than BIOS screen writes. Direct
screen writes, however, may not work on certain "IBM-compatible"
computers or with some multitaskers. These days, however, this is
rarely the case. Only under very extreme circumstances should you have
to turn BIOS writes on. Turning BIOS writes on will significantly slow
the performance of LiveWire.
Note: LiveWire will run in a DesqView window with BIOS screen writes
off.
EGA/VGA 43 line mode
Selecting this option turns EGA/VGA 43 line mode on or off. If you
have an EGA or VGA monitor, your monitor is capable of displaying 43
(or 50 for VGA) lines on your screen, as opposed to the normal 25. In
this mode the dialing directory will display 30 entries per screen
rather than 10.
bIg cursor
Selecting this option turns LiveWire's big cursor on or off. By
default LiveWire uses a large (or tall) cursor. Turning this option
off sets the cursor to the normal-sized DOS cursor.
Status Line
Selecting this option turns the status line in the terminal on or off.
The last line of your screen in terminal mode is normally used for
status information. If the computer you are calling requires use of
the whole screen, you should turn the status line off.
Scroll-back
Selecting this option turns the scroll-back buffer on or off. By
default scroll-back is on. This means that LiveWire stores 500 lines
(about 20 pages) of text for review. This buffer takes up about 40k of
memory. If you don't have memory to spare or if review is not
desirable, then scroll-back can be turned off.
scroll-back Quote
When you quoting a portion of the text from your scroll back buffer
you may want a character or characters to precede each line of quoted
text. This indicates to the reader that the text he is reading has
been quoted from another source.
Connect timeout
Selecting this option allows you to change the time LiveWire will
spend waiting to be connected to each computer system you dial. By
default the connect timeout is set to 45 seconds. Most computers will
establish connection within 15 to 20 seconds.
Redial wait
Selecting this option allows you to change how long LiveWire will wait
between phone dialing attempts. By default it is set to five seconds.
In other words, if LW gets a busy sinal it will wait five seconds
before trying again.
inter-character Pacing
Most modems and network setups require a minuscule pause between
characters sent to the modem. This option is the number of
milliseconds LiveWire should pause between each character it sends to
the modem. By default this option is set to 45 milliseconds. 45
milliseconds is a relatively long pacing setting used for
compatibility. Feel free to change this value to a lower setting, it
will speed your modem dialing and initialization.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.3.4. Files ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Files
Under the file configuration menu you can set
up file specifications and file transfer
protocols.
Editor
Selecting this option allows you to
change the editor that LiveWire
uses to view and edit files. By
default LiveWire uses it's own
editor, LWEDIT, which is a limited
wordstar-like editor.
Transfer protocols...
This menu allows you to add external file transfer protocols to
LiveWire.
- auto-find protocols -
Selecting this option will make LiveWire automatically look for
and install external protocols it knows about. LiveWire
recognizes the following protocols: Puma, MPt, Lynx, Jmodem,
Punter, Bimodem, and Super Zmodem. In addition, LiveWire includes
its own ASCII, message, Xmodem, Xmodem CRC, and Xmodem-1k, and
Zmodem internal protocols. When searching for protocols, LiveWire
will search the current directory, then \LW, then \LW\PROTOCOL,
then \PROTOCOL, and finally it will search through all of the
directories listed in your DOS path. If any protocols are found,
they are added to the list automatically. For information on
including more auto-find protocols for LiveWire, refer to the
section Auto-Find Protocols Customization.
Edit Protocols
Selecting one of the protocols
in the list will allow you to
change the information for
that
protocol. To add a new
protocol you must select the
empty entry after the last
protocol and provide the
following information:
Name
Selecting this option allows you to change the name of the
protocol. All protocols must be named.
Hotkey
Selecting this option allows you to change the unique hotkey
associated with the protocol. The hotkey is the character
that may be pressed to automatically jump the highlight bar
to that protocol. The hotkey should be one of the letters in
the name of the protocol. This hotkey is also used to
specify the default protocol in the dialing directory.
Prompt filename
Selecting this option changes whether LiveWire will prompt
the user for a filename before downloads. If the protocol
you are adding requires that LiveWire ask for the filename
before receiving (downloading) a file, this option should be
yes. Protocols such as Zmodem obtain the download filename
from the sending computer automatically. Therefore, Zmodem
does not require that the user enter a filename when
receiving a file.
Receive command 1 and 2
Selecting this option will allow you to change the DOS
commands required to run the protocol to receive a file.
Read the external protocol manual for information about what
command to use. Some protocols may require more than one DOS
command, so two lines are provided. Most external protocols
will require that you send the communications port, modem
speed, and filename. If you put %0 in the command line, it
will be replaced with the port number. %1 will be replaced
with the modem speed. %2 will be replaced with the filename
or path.
Example:
DSZ port %0 speed %1 rz %2
Expands to:
DSZ port 1 speed 2400 rz C:\TMPARCS2
This replacement is done automatically by LiveWire, all you
need to do is put the percent commands in the correct place.
Send command 1 and 2
Selecting this option will allow you to change the DOS
commands required to run the protocol to send a file. Read
the external protocol manual for information about what
command to use. Some protocols may require more than one DOS
command, so two lines are provided. Most external protocols
will require that you send the communications port, modem
speed, and filename. If you put %0 in the command line, it
will be replaced with the port number. %1 will be replaced
with the modem speed. %2 will be replaced with the filename
or path.
Example:
DSZ port %0 speed %1 rz %2
Expands to:
DSZ port 1 speed 2400 sz C:\TMPARCS2\READ.ME
This replacement is done automatically by LiveWire, all you
need to do is put the percent commands in the correct place.
Upload directory
Selecting this option will allow you to change which directory uploads
(files to be sent) can be found. Normally this option is blank,
allowing you to enter your own path at the time of the upload.
However, if you have a directory where you keep all or most of the
files you send, typing the path here will save time.
Download Directory
Selecting this option will allow you to change which directory
downloads are sent to. Normally this option is blank, allowing you to
enter the path to send the download on each download. Protocols that
do not prompt you for a download path (such as Zmodem) will
automatically use the download directory you specify.
Usage Log
Selecting this option will turn the usage log on or off. If the usage
log is on, LiveWire logs all operations to a file for your records.
Information such as downloads, time spent on a system, and such are
kept.
Usage Log
Selecting this option will allow you to change the path and file of
LiveWire's usage log file. If this is left empty, LiveWire will ask
you to provide a log file when you turn the usage log on.
Capture file
Selecting this option allows you to change the default path and
filename for the capture file.
Scroll back save
Selecting this option allows you to change the default path and
filename for scroll back save.
Screen Dump
Selecting this option allows you to change the default path and
filename for a screen dump. A screen dump is saving the contents of
the current screen to a file. This is like print screen to a file.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.3.5. Colors ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Colors
Under this configuration menu you can set up all of the
colors that LiveWire uses. To do this, simply select one
of the below. A color selection box, like the one to the
right, will appear. To change the color use the up and
down arrow keys to change the background color and the
right left arrow keys to change the foreground color. A
sample of the color you've selected will appear. When you
have the desired color, press ENTER to finalize your
decision.
Terminal
Selecting this option allows you to change the color in the terminal.
Terminal Message
Selecting this option allows you to change the color of the messages
displayed while in the terminal.
Menu text
Selecting this option allows you to change the color of the normal
menu text.
Menu Secondary text
Selecting this option allows you to change the color of the secondary
text in the menus.
Menu window Border
Selecting this option allows you to change the color of the
menu's border.
Menu Highlights
Selecting this option allows you to change the color of the
background highlights (scroll bars, for example) in the
menus.
Status liNe
Selecting this option allows you to change the color of the status
line at the bottom of the screen.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.3.6. Defaults ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Keys
Macros...
Selecting this option allows you to
change LiveWire's macros.
LiveWire's macros control how the
function keys operate. For example,
when you press ALT-D, a macro is
executed which makes the dialer
screen appear. When you first
select this option LiveWire will
ask you to enter the macro
filename. Press ENTER to retain the
same macro filename.
Press the function keys you wish to define or command below:
Pressing any key or key combination here will allow you to define the
macro associated with that key combination. You may define any key or
key combination (except for normal typing or numeric keys). To do
this, simply press that key or key combination. For example, Press F1.
The macro for F1 will be displayed, and you may edit it if you like.
When you are done editing the macro, press ENTER.
List macros
Pressing L from this menu will display a full list of all definable
keys and the macros associated with them. Using the up and down arrow
keys you can move the highlight bar through the list of macros. Press
ENTER to edit the highlighted macro.
Using Macros
Macros have many uses. Anything you put in the macros will be sent to
the modem when you press the key associated with that macro. For
example, if you define F1 to be "Hello, I am using LiveWire
Communications!" then when you press F1 it will be as if you typed
"Hello, I am using LiveWire Communications!" To insert control
characters into the macro, use a caret followed by the control key
letter. For example, ^M. Some common control characters and what they
correspond to are:
^M Carriage Return (as if you have pressed ENTER)
^G Makes a beep tone sound on the remote computer
^L Formfeed, which effectively clears the screen
There are also commands that can go in macros. Commands are contained
in curly braces -- { }.
The following macro commands are recognized by LiveWire:
{BSISDEL} Toggles the action of the backspace key between the
backspace and delete character
{CAPTURE} Toggles capture of information on and off
{CGA25} Switches to 25 line mode
{CHANGE DIR} Invokes the change directory (directory tree) function
{CHANGE DRIVE} Invokes the change drive function
{CLRSCR} Clears the screen
{CONFIG} Invokes the configuration menu
{CONFIGEMU} Invokes the emulation configuration menu
{DIALER} Invokes the dialer
{DOORWAY} Toggles the doorway mode on and off
{DOS} Invokes a DOS shell
{DOS:cmnd} Invokes a DOS shell where cmnd is executed
{DUMP SCREEN} Dumps the screen to a file (like printscreen)
{ECHO OFF} Turns local keyboard echo off
{ECHO} Toggles local keyboard echo on or off
{ECHO ON} Turns local keyboard echo on
{EGA43} Switches to 43 line mode
{EXIT} Exits LiveWire (asks the user before exiting)
{FILE MANAGER} Invokes the LiveWire file manager
{HANG-UP} Sends the command to hang up the modem
{HELPSCREEN} Brings up the help/command screen
{KEYCONFIG} Invokes macro configuration
{LEARN SCRIPT} Turns script learning on or off
{LINEFEEDS} Toggles local linefeeds on or off
{LINEFEEDS ON} Turns linefeeds on
{LINEFEEDS OFF} Turns linefeeds off
{LINES} Toggles between CGA 25 line and EGA 43 line screen mode
{LOG} Toggles the log on and off
{MACROCONFIG} Invokes macro configuration
{PASSWORD} Sends your password (as listed in the dialer) to
the remote computer
{PRINTER} Toggles capture to printer on and off
{PORTCONFIG} Invokes the communications port configuration
{RECEIVE FILES} Invokes a download session
{RUN SCRIPT} Invokes a script
{SCROLL-BACK} Invokes scroll-back viewer
{SCROLL-BAK} Toggles scroll back on and off
{SEND FILES} Invokes an upload session
{SEND ANSI} Invokes the menu to send an ANSI color command to
the remote computer
{SEND BREAK} Sends a BREAK signal to the remote computer
{STATUS} Toggles the status line on and off
{VIEW FILE} Invokes the file editor
{XFLOW OFF} Turns Xon/Xoff flow control off
{XFLOW} Toggles Xon/Xoff flow control on or off
{XFLOW ON} Turns Xon/Xoff flow control on
{XLATETABLES} Invokes translate tables configuration
You may mix commands and text. For example, a macro can be defined as:
Running Configuration{CONFIG}Done.
Any of these commands can be embedded in a macro. These commands are
dynamically linked with the comma0 1' . If you move the clear
screen command ({CLRSCR}) from ALT-C to F1, the change will be
reflected in the command screen automatically.
Input translate table...
Selecting this option will allow
you to configure the translation
table. The input translate table
controls all information going and
coming over the modem. Before it is
displayed on your screen, it is
passed through the translate table.
For example, using the translate
table you can change all A's to Z's
or change all Z's to
A's. The translate table lists
numbers 0 through 255. Each number
corresponds with a letter or
character. For example, the number
65 corresponds with the letter A.
Using this information, you can
modify the translate table so that
when the letter A is received it is
changed to another letter.
Swap
Pressing S, for swap, allows you to view numbers 129 to 255
of the translate table, since the screen can only display
128 values at a time.
Change
Pressing C, for change, allows you to modify the translate
table. You will be asked which number you want to change.
For example, you would type in 65 and press ENTER for the
letter A. It then asks you for the new value, any number
from 0 to 255.
View
Pressing V, for view, allows you to view the letters and
characters associated with the numbers. Pressing V again
will return to the numeric mode.
Output translate table...
Selecting this option will allow you to configure the translation
table. The output translate table controls all information going over
the modem. Before it is displayed on your screen, it is passed through
the translate table. For example, using the translate table you can
change all A's to Z's or change all Z's to all A's. The translate
table lists numbers 0 through 255. Each number corresponds with a
letter or character. For example, the number 65 corresponds with the
letter A. Using this information, you can modify the translate table
so that when the letter A is sent it is changed to another letter
before being sent over the modem.
See Input translate table for information on swap, change, and
view commands.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.3.7. Terminal emulation ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Emulation
Selecting emulation lets you change which terminal type
LiveWire will emulate. The terminal type dictates how
LiveWire will react to special control codes and how it will
act under certain situations. The emulation that is checked
will have a check mark next to it.
TTY
Selecting this option will make LiveWire emulate TTY or TeleTYpe
emulation. TTY emulation is a plain vanilla emulation. It does nothing
special, simply displays what it receives.
ANSI-BBS
Selecting this option will make LiveWire emulate the ANSI-BBS
emulation. The ANSI-BBS emulation, a subset of IBM's ANSI.SYS driver,
supports special cursor positioning and color changing escape codes,
but does not support key redefinition. Most bulletin boards and online
services use the ANSI-BBS emulation.
0+ AVATAR
Selecting this option will make LiveWire the most recent definition of
the basic avatar emulation called 0+. The Avatar emulation was created
to speed up the display of complex color menus by shortening color and
cursor movement codes significantly (at least by a factor of two).
This implementation of Avatar also responds to ANSI codes as well as
Avatar codes.
VT-100
Selecting this option will make LiveWire emulate the DEC VT-100
terminal to the best of its abilities. Functions such as double wide
are not supported because they are not easy to reproduce on most video
cards.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.3.8. Exiting configuration ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Exit
Pressing ESC while not in any configuration
menu gets you to the Exit menu. To return to
configuration, press ESC again.
Save Configuration
Select this option to save the
changes in the configuration.
Exit without saving
Select this option to cancel the
changes made to the configuration.
Changes made to the macros cannot
be canceled and will be in effect
even if you select abort
configuration.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.4. Terminal Mode ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
The Terminal Mode
The modem initialization string
When LiveWire first starts up it sends the modem initialization string. The
modem initialization string is a set of commands sent to the modem that set it
up for use by LiveWire Communications.
Before sending the initialization string, however, LiveWire checks to see
if the modem is connected to another computer. If so, LiveWire will tell you
that you are online and will ask if you still want to send the initialization
string. Some modems will initially report that they are connected with another
computer, but after sending the first initialization will report the correct
status. In some occasions, the Hayes Personal Modem for example, the modem
ALWAYS reports that it is connected to another computer. In this case LiveWire
will always ask if you want to send the initialization string. You should answer
Yes.
The default initialization string is for a Hayes 1200 or 2400 baud modem.
Some modems which aren't completely compatible with Hayes modems may not accept
the default initialization string. In this case you should consult your modem
manual for the correct settings. Some of the most common problems that occur if
the modem initialization string is wrong are:
Modem says "ERROR" (although the modem may still work correctly)
Modem does not respond to commands
Modem does not echo back keystrokes
Modem responds with numbers instead of commands like OK, CONNECT, and BUSY
Modem always indicates that is online
LiveWire's dialer cannot dial
LiveWire's dialer cannot recognize busy or connect signals
LiveWire's dialer never gets a busy signal, but will connect
LiveWire's dialer won't automatically detect the other modem's speed
Explanation of the status line
The last line on the screen is reserved for status information and help. In
the terminal mode the status line looks like:
| LW | COM1 2400 N81 | Offline | 8:19:24P | L P C E X F R B | ANSI-BBS |
COM1 The communications port
2400 The modem speed
N Parity: None, Even, or Odd
8 The data bits, 7 or 8
1 The stop bits, 1 or 2
Offline Indicates if the modem is offline or online. If the modem is online,
this will show the time spent online.
8:19:24P The current time
L Indicates LiveWire is keeping a log
P Indicates LiveWire is capturing to the printer
C Indicates LiveWire is capturing to a file
E Indicates LiveWire is echoing local keystrokes
X Indicates that XON/XOFF flow control is on
F Indicates that linefeeds are on
R Indicates that RTS/CTS flow control is on
B Indicates that BIOS screen writes are on
ANSI-BBS Indicates the current terminal emulation
In all other modes, such as the dialer, the status line contains limited
help and available commands.
Terminal mode: a direct link to your modem
The terminal mode serves as a direct link to your modem. Anything you type
in terminal mode is sent to the modem. The modem has two modes: command mode and
data mode.
Initially, the modem is in command mode. While in command mode it will
accept what's called AT commands. AT is short for "ATtention." Typing AT and
then pressing ENTER should make the modem respond by printing OK on the screen.
Some other commands are ATH for hangup and ATA for answer phone. In this command
mode the modem interprets anything you type as a command.
When the modem connects to another computer it automatically changes into
data mode. In data mode the modem ignores all commands and opens a link between
your computer and the other computer. Anything you type will be sent to the
other computer.
Once in data mode, there is a way to switch out of it -- type three +'s
with a 1/2 second delay between each +. At this point, the modem will switch out
of data mode and allow you to give it commands. It's unlikely you'll need to do
this, though because if either computer hangs up the phone the modem will return
to command mode automatically.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5. Command Screen ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
The Command Screen
LiveWire [Home]
Procomm+ [Alt-Z]
Qmodem [Home]
Telix [Alt-Z]
Boyan [Ctrl-Home]
Universal [Ctrl-\]
Using the command screen
When LiveWire first loads up it will display the following line:
Press <key> for menu command screen
Pressing the key shown will bring up the command screen. Note that, in any
case, the command screen can be activated by pressing and holding the Ctrl key,
then hitting the back slash (\) key. The command screen provides a list to the
major commands supported by LiveWire and the key combination which activates it.
The command screen is important because the key combination associated with
each command can change according to the macros setup.
While in the command screen, pressing any of the listed key combinations
will activate that command. Pressing the Escape key will return you to the
terminal mode. You may also select the command you want by moving the highlight
bar with the arrow keys, and then pressing ENTER when the highlight bar is on
the command desired.
Dynamic command keys
All of LiveWire's command keys are dynamic. That is, you can configure the
macros such that any key combination can bring up a desired function. For your
convenience, LiveWire includes keyset emulations for LiveWire, Procomm+, Qmodem,
Telix, and Boyan. This will help you adapt to LiveWire when switching from
another communications program. All of the commands mentioned in this manual
will, in fine print, list the keys for all of these keysets which activate the
command.
Changing the keyset emulations after the initial configuration of LiveWire
is accomplished by bringing up the command screen and pressing K for keyset.
Then press L for the LiveWire keyset, P for the Procomm keyset, Q for the Qmodem
keyset, T for the Telix keyset or B for the Boyan keyset. NOTE: changing the
keyset clears the macros. If you have defined some macros for your personal use
they will be erased by this command.
You can also change the keys which activate any of the commands on the
command menu right from the command menu. To do this, move the highlight bar to
the command you wish to change and press N to select a new key combination.
Then, press the key combination you wish to associate with the highlighted
command. As long as that key combination is not used for another command the
change will take place immediately and permanently on the command screen and in
the LiveWire configuration.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.1. Phone book ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Phone book
LiveWire [Alt-D]
Procomm+ [Alt-D]
Qmodem [Alt-D]
Telix [Alt-D]
Boyan [Alt-D]
The phone book allows you to keep phone numbers of bulletin boards and
online services. Directly from the phone book you can dial simply by moving the
highlight bar to the number and pressing ENTER.
The dialer is able to read and modify Qmodem 4.x and 5.0, Procomm+, Telix,
and Boyan phone files. Of course, LiveWire has it's own proprietary dialing
directory format too. The dialer also has excellent editing and sorting
functions. The dialer is the second most used function in a communications
program. For more information see the section The Phone Book.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.2. Clear screen ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Clear screen
LiveWire [Alt-C]
Procomm+ [Alt-C]
Qmodem [Alt-C]
Telix [Alt-C]
Boyan [Alt-Z]
This command simply clears the terminal mode screen.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.3. Scroll back ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Scroll back
LiveWire [UP-Arrow]
Procomm+ [Alt-F6]
Qmodem [UP-Arrow]
Telix [Alt-B]
Boyan [Up-Arrow]
Using the scroll-back command you may review what has scrolled off your
screen during your connection. You may then save all or parts of this
scroll-back buffer. Scrollback holds up to 500 lines of your last
conversation. Note this sops up 40k of RAM, and may be turned off with the
scroll-bak toggle.
To review all 500 lines of scroll-back you can press the up and down arrow
keys. Doing this moves the white highlight bar up and down the screen. When
the highlight bar reaches the top or bottom of the screen the screen will
scroll automatically to reveal more of the session.
You can clear the scroll-back buffer by pressing C when it is activated.
Pressing S will allow you to save the scroll-back. You will be asked for a
filename to save the scrollback to. If you wish to save only part of the
scroll-back you can block highlight the part you want to save before
pressing S.
To preform block highlighting move, using the arrow keys, the highlight bar
to the first line you wish to highlight. Now press B, for Begin Block. Now
move the highlight bar to the last line you wish to highlight. Now press E,
for End Block. Both the beginning line, ending line, and all lines in
between will be highlighted. To save this highlighted block, press S.
You can also quote a highlighted block. Quoting means that the highlighted
block is transmitted over the modem, as if you typed it in yourself. One
example of where this feature can be used is if you are replying to a
message. If you wish to include some of the original message in your reply
for reference purposes you can highlight just the lines you want from the
original message and then have LiveWire retype it for you. To preform a
quote, highlight the block you wish to quote and then press Q, for Quote.
When you are finished looking through the scroll-back you may exit by
pressing ESC.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.4. Capture ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Capture
LiveWire [Alt-K]
Procomm+ [Alt-R]
Qmodem [Ctrl-Home]
Telix [Alt-L]
Boyan [Alt-L]
This command will capture the whole communications session to a file. The
capture can be turned off by repeating this command again.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.5. Dump screen ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Dump screen
LiveWire [Alt-U]
Procomm+ [Alt-G]
Qmodem [Alt-T]
Telix [Alt-I]
Boyan [Alt-S]
This command allows you to save the current terminal mode screen to a disk
file.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.6. ANSI color ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
ANSI color
LiveWire [Alt-A]
Procomm+ [Alt-N]
Qmodem [Alt-7]
Telix [Alt-N]
Boyan [Alt-O]
This command sends the correct ANSI codes over the modem to change to any
desired color. This may be useful in messages and while chatting.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.7. Hang-up ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Hang-up
LiveWire [Alt-H]
Procomm+ [Alt-H]
Qmodem [Alt-H]
Telix [Alt-H]
Boyan [Alt-H]
This command attempts to hang up the modem. It attempts two methods. First,
it lowers the DTR signal for a fraction of a second and raises it. Most
modems will take this as a signal to hangup. If the modem fails to hangup
using this method LiveWire sends a hayes command to the modem instructing
it to hang up the phone.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.8. Exit LiveWire ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Exit
LiveWire [Alt-X]
Procomm+ [Alt-X]
Qmodem [Alt-X]
Telix [Alt-X]
Boyan [Alt-X]
This command exits LiveWire Communications. Before exiting, LiveWire will
ask you if you're sure you want to exit. Press Y to exit or N to return to
LiveWire.
If you are still connected to another computer when you try to exit
LiveWire, LiveWire will ask if you want to hang up on the other computer.
Press Y to hang up, or N to keep your modem remain online.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.9. Configuration ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Configuration
LiveWire [Alt-N]
Procomm+ [Alt-S]
Qmodem [Alt-N]
Telix [Alt-O]
Boyan [Alt-C]
This command allows you change the configuration for LiveWire.
Configuration is explained in the section Configuration.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.10. Port setup ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Port setup
LiveWire [Alt-P]
Procomm+ [Alt-P]
Qmodem [Alt-P]
Telix [Alt-P]
Boyan [Alt-P]
This command allows you to change the serial port configuration. This
includes COM port, baud rate, data bits, stop bits, parity, network, and
port setup. This is discussed in the section Configuration options and
explanations.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.11. Macros ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Macros
LiveWire [Alt-M]
Procomm+ [Alt-M]
Qmodem [Alt-J]
Telix [Alt-K]
Boyan [Alt-M]
This command allows you to configure the keyboard macro definitions. This
is discussed in the section Configuration options and explanations.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.12. Translate tables ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
X-late Tables
LiveWire [Alt-T]
Procomm+ [Alt-W]
Qmodem [Alt-A]
Telix [Alt-W]
Boyan [Alt-T]
This command allows you to change the translate tables LiveWire uses. This
is discussed in the section Configuration options and explanations.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.13. Config keys ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Config keys
LiveWire [Alt-Y]
Procomm+ [Alt-F8]
Qmodem [Alt-6]
Telix [Alt-2]
Boyan [Alt-K]
This command allows you to configure the keyboard macros or translate
tables. This is discussed in the section Configuration options and
explanations.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.14. Emulation ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Emulation
LiveWire [Alt-E]
Procomm+ [Alt-U]
Qmodem [Alt-G]
Telix [Alt-T]
Boyan [Alt-A]
Sets the terminal emulation LiveWire uses. Currently, LiveWire supports
TTY, ANSI-BBS, 0+ Avatar, and VT-100. Most bulletin boards and online services
require or recommend ANSI-BBS emulation.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.15. Run script ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Run script
LiveWire [Alt-I]
Procomm+ [Alt-F5]
Qmodem [Alt-F]
Telix [Alt-G]
Boyan [Alt-R]
This command starts a LiveWire script file. You will be asked for the
filename of the script (including extension). You will then be asked for
script parameters. If you do not know what script parameters to provide,
just press ENTER.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.16. Learn script ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Learn script
LiveWire [Alt-L]
Procomm+ [Alt-F10]
Qmodem [Alt-Q]
Telix [Alt-Y]
Boyan [Alt-8]
This function attempts to learn your keystrokes and records your keystrokes
in a script file for later playback. This feature is useful for automating
redundant tasks such as typing your name and password to login to a system.
For more information about script learning see the Script Learn Tutorial.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.17. Send files ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Send files
LiveWire [PgUp]
Procomm+ [PgUp]
Qmodem [PgUp]
Telix [Alt-S]
Boyan [PgUp]
This command lets you send files over the modem using any of the listed
protocols. A discussion of how to send and receive files is found in the
section Transferring files over the modem.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.18. Receive files ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Receive files
LiveWire [PgDn]
Procomm+ [PgDn]
Qmodem [PgDn]
Telix [Alt-R]
Boyan [PgDn]
This command lets you receive files over the modem using any of the listed
protocols. A discussion of how to send and receive files is found in the
section Transferring files over the modem.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.19. OS shell ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
OS shell
LiveWire [Alt-S]
Procomm+ [Alt-F4]
Qmodem [Alt-R]
Telix [Alt-J]
Boyan [Alt-J]
This command temporarily shells you to a DOS command prompt. While in DOS
you have a reduced amount of memory because LiveWire is still in memory.
LiveWire will inform you how much memory is available. To return to
LiveWire simply type EXIT and then press Enter at the DOS prompt.
NOTE: For this command to work you must have sufficient memory and
COMMAND.COM must be in the current directory or in a path specified by the
environment variables COMSPEC or PATH.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.20. Change drive ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Change drive
LiveWire [Alt-G]
Procomm+ [Alt-F9]
Qmodem [Alt-L]
Telix [Alt-3]
Boyan [Alt-7]
This command allows you to change the logged drive. Simply move the
highlight bar to the drive you want and press ENTER. You may also type the
letter of the drive to change to, A through Z.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.21. Change directory ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Change dir
LiveWire [Alt-O]
Procomm+ [Alt-F7]
Qmodem [Alt-O]
Telix [Alt-4]
Boyan [Alt-N]
This command allows you to change the default directory. This directory
selection method uses a tree-like representation of the directories rather
than typing a path. The first time this command is run LiveWire will scan
the disk to make the directory structure. This may take some time.
The following keys will work in the directory changer:
ENTER - Select highlighted directory as the current directory
Arrow keys - Move the highlight bar up or down the tree
INS - Create a directory under the highlighted directory
DEL - Delete highlighted directory
While in the directory changer, you can use the up and down arrow keys to
move the highlight bar to the desired directory. The full path is shown at
the bottom of the window. Pressing ENTER selects that directory as the
current directory. Pressing the INS creates a new directory. Pressing DEL
will allow you to remove a directory.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.22. Directory ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Directory
LiveWire [Alt-R]
Procomm+ [Alt-F]
Qmodem [Alt-W]
Telix [Alt-1]
Boyan [Alt-0]
This command displays a listing of the files in the current directory by
the DOS DIR /P command.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.23. View file ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
View file
LiveWire [Alt-V]
Procomm+ [Alt-V]
Qmodem [Alt-V]
Telix [Alt-A]
Boyan [Alt-V]
This command invokes the external editor to edit a file of your choice. By
fc=default, LWEdit is invoked on the file you enter.
NOTE: LWEdit is limited in that it can only handle files less than 64k.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.24. Send BREAK ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Send BREAK (NOT listed in command menu)
LiveWire [Alt-B]
Procomm+ [Alt-B]
Qmodem [Ctrl-End]
Telix [Ctrl-End]
Boyan [Ctrl-End]
This command will send a 1.5 second break signal to the remote computer.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.25. Toggle log ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Log
LiveWire [Alt-1]
Procomm+ [Alt-F1]
Qmodem [Alt-0]
Telix [Alt-U]
Boyan [Alt-U]
This turns the useage log on and off. LiveWire logs such things as time of
connection to another computer, files transferred, functions executed, time
online, when carrier was dropped, and when LiveWire was started and exited.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.26. Toggle printer ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Printer
LiveWire [Alt-2]
Procomm+ [Alt-L]
Qmodem [Alt-9]
Telix [Ctrl-@]
Boyan [Ctrl-PrtSc]
This command turns the printer on or off. If on, anything appearing in the
terminal mode is sent to the printer. It is like the capture command which
saves the session, except to the printer.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.27. Toggle echo ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Echo
LiveWire [Alt-3]
Procomm+ [Alt-E]
Qmodem [Alt-E]
Telix [Alt-E]
Boyan [Alt-E]
This command turns echo on or off. If echo is on, LiveWire displays every
key that you type in the terminal mode on the screen as you type it. This
is not always desirable because normally the modem and other computers do
that for you automatically. If you see doubled characters on your screen
you should turn echo off.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.28. Toggle scroll-back ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Scroll-back
LiveWire [Alt-4]
Procomm+ [Alt-1]
Qmodem [Alt-U]
Telix [Alt-5]
Boyan [Alt-2]
This command turns the scroll-back on or off. When scroll-back is on, 500
lines are kept in memory for you to review. This takes up 40k of RAM
memory. So, if you are tight on memory, turn off scroll-back.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.29. Toggle xon/xoff ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Xon/Xoff
LiveWire [Alt-5]
Procomm+ [Alt-2]
Qmodem [Alt-Z]
Telix [Alt-6]
Boyan [Alt-3]
This command turns XON/XOFF flow control on or off. If flow control is on,
the computer you are talking to will be able to temporarily pause your
transmission in order to catch up. This is rarely used, but can be useful.
It can be a nuisance, too. Sometimes line noise or static upon hanging up
will cause a burst of characters, one of which will be the code to stop
transmission. This will lock your keyboard until you press ESC to override
the command.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.30. Toggle doorway ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Doorway
LiveWire [Alt-6]
Procomm+ [Alt-3]
Qmodem [Alt-=]
Telix [Alt-=]
Boyan [Alt-4]
This command turns the special doorway mode on or off. While in doorway
mode, you will be able to send function and arrow keys over the modem.
Normally, only printing characters (letters, numbers, and symbols) can be
sent over the modem. Using the special doorway mode all other keys will be
sent over the modem. The use of this mode requires that the other computer
be able to recognize the codes for the function keys. Some message editors
and remote DOS shells recognize the keys. The program that initiated this
standard is DOORWAY. The shareware DOORWAY program, by Marshall Dudley,
allows any text based program to be run on one computer and appear on
another via a modem.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.31. Toggle status line ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Status Line
LiveWire [Alt-7]
Procomm+ [Alt-4]
Qmodem [Alt--]
Telix [Alt-7]
Boyan [Alt-5]
This command turns the terminal mode status line on or off. In some cases
where the whole screen is needed, the status line, which takes resides on
the last screen line, may not be desirable.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.32. Toggle linefeeds ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Linefeeds
LiveWire [Alt-8]
Procomm+ [Alt-F3]
Qmodem [Shift-Tab]
Telix [Shift-Tab]
Boyan [Shift-Tab]
This command turns linefeeds on or off. If linefeeds are on, LiveWire adds
a linefeed to every carriage return. IE: It'll automatically drop down a
line when the cursor moves to the beginning of the line.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.33. Toggle 43 lines ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
43 lines
LiveWire [Alt-9]
Procomm+ [Alt-6]
Qmodem [Alt-4]
Telix [Alt-9]
Boyan [Alt-G]
This command toggles between 25 lines per screen and 43 or 50 lines per
screen mode. The number of lines depends upon whether you have an EGA or
VGA graphics systen. CGA graphics systems do not support 43 or 50 line
modes.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.5.34. Toggle Backspace=DEL ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Backspace=DEL
LiveWire [Alt-0]
Procomm+ [Alt-0]
Qmodem [Alt-1]
Telix [Alt-0]
Boyan [Alt-9]
This toggles the BackSpace key between sending a BS (backspace) character
and sending a DEL character. For most BBSs a backspace (the fc=default) is
required. Some systems may require a DEL character, though. If your
backspace key appears not to work, use this command to toggle your
backspace setting.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.6. The Phone Book ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
The Phone Book
LiveWire [Alt-D]
Procomm+ [Alt-D]
Qmodem [Alt-D]
Telix [Alt-D]
Boyan [Alt-D]
The jobs the phone book performs
The dialer keeps a list of up to 200 phone numbers of other computers. The
dialer keeps records such as computer name, number, last called, and number of
times called. The dialer also preforms useful functions such as dialing the
modem and establishing a connection to one of the services in the phone book.
You can have the phone book redial a number or several selected numbers until it
connects with another computer. Upon connection to another computer the dialer
will return to terminal mode so you can communicate with the other computer.
Entering a phone number
The basic thing you'll need to know to use the dialer is how to enter a new
phone number into the list. You can do this by using the edit command in the
dialer.
First, bring up the dialer by pressing the key combination Alt-D from the
terminal mode. Now, using the up and down arrow keys, move the highlight bar to
a blank entry in the phone book. Now press the "E" key, for Edit.
A window appears displaying information for the entry you've selected. The
highlight bar appears at the top of the window over the "Name" field. Press
ENTER to edit the name of the computer system to be added. Then, type in the
name and press ENTER again. Now press the down arrow key once, moving the
highlight bar to the "Number" field. Press ENTER to edit the phone number. Type
in the phone number and then press ENTER when you're finished.
When entering the phone number the following keys have special meanings:
, A comma will pause the phone for 1/2 a second. This is useful when the
modem must wait for a while before continuing dialing, as some long
distance phone companies require.
A - J The letters A through J are called dial codes. Putting a dial
code in the phone number will cause LiveWire to expand that dial
code into a code you specify. For example, if you type in as a
phone number: A555-3218 LiveWire will look up the dial code A. If
it is defined by you, it will be replaced. For example, in this
instance if A is defined as "9,," then the number would expand to
9,,555-3218. As you might imagine, this could be useful when you
switch between a phone line that requires that you dial 9 before
dialing and one that does not. The dial codes can be defined
through the edit dialing (C)odes command, "C" from the dialing
menu.
When you are finished entering this information you might also want to edit
other information such as speed, parity, bits, stop bits, script, password, last
call, total calls, protocol, emulation, and echo.
Loading another program's dialing directory
LiveWire provides a unique feature in that it allows you to load several
other dialing directory formats. LiveWire supports LiveWire, Qmodem 4.x and 5.0,
Telix, Boyan, Procomm 3.4.2, and Procomm+ phone directory types.
To load one of these phone files, first get into the dialing directory
(press Alt-D from the terminal mode). Now press the "L" key to Load a new phone
directory. When you are prompted, type the path and name for the dialing
directory you wish to load, then press ENTER.
Loading a Telix directory requires one extra step. Since Telix phone files
are of variable length, they must be converted to LiveWire format before it can
be used. So, when you try to load a Telix phone directory LiveWire will prompt
you to enter a name for the converted Telix file. Another problem with Telix
phone files is that they are cut off after 200 entries. This is due to the fact
that the LiveWire phone directory format does not support more than 200 entries.
For all phone directories except Telix, the file is not automatically
converted to LiveWire format. If you wish to convert the phone directory to
LiveWire format (although it is not necessary), press the "N" to coNvert to
LiveWire format. You will be asked for a new name for the phone file before it
is converted.
The dialing process
Once you have your phone directory set up, you can dial another computer.
Dialing on LiveWire is rather simple. Use the up and down arrow keys to position
the highlight bar over the entry you wish to dial and press ENTER. LiveWire will
automatically start dialing the selected number. If LiveWire is unable to
connect for any reason, it will wait for a few seconds and redial automatically.
This redialing process will repeat until either you press ESC and cancel the
dialing or you establish connection with the other computer. Pressing ESC simply
stops the dialing and returns you to the dialing directory. If the modem
connects with another computer, the dialer will make a high pitched ring and
display the message "Connected! Press any key..." Upon your pressing a key,
LiveWire will return you to the terminal mode where you'll be in communications
with the other computer.
Marking entries to dial multiple phone numbers
LiveWire can also dial any number of entries you choose until it connects
with one of the computers. This is done by marking the entries you wish to dial.
Marking is also very simple. Position the highlight bar on the entry you wish to
mark for dialing. Press the space bar. A check mark will appear next to the
entry, indicating the entry has been marked. Note that the highlight bar
automatically moves down to the next entry. Repeat this process until all of the
entries you want to dial have been marked. Now, position the highlight bar on
the entry you want to dial first, and press ENTER. The dialing will begin. The
dialing will cycle through the marked entries until a connection is established.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.6.1. Dialing Commands ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Dialing commands
dial entry [ENTER]
The Start Dial command will start redialing either the entry the
highlight bar is on or, if there are marked entries, the marked
entries will be dialed. The dialer will continue redialing until it
connects with another computer. To stop dialing, press ESC.
edit entry [E]
The Edit entry command will allow you to edit the entry the highlight bar
is on or the entries that are marked. When you edit an entry, a window will
appear containing the current entry's information. The following
information can be edited by moving the highlight bar to that option and
pressing enter.
Name The name of the BBS or service associated with this entry.
Number The phone number of there BBS or service for this entry.
Speed Speed to set the modem before dialing. This is initially set
to the highest baud rate available for your modem.
Parity Parity to be used for the computer being called. N=No
Parity, O=Odd Parity, E=Even Parity.
Bits Number of data bits to be used when communicating to the computer
being called. This may be either 7 or 8.
Stop (bits) The number of stop bits to be used when communicating to the
computer being called. This may be either 1 or 2.
Duplex This option is the same as the echo on/off toggle. If duplex
is FULL, echo is off. If duplex is HALF, echo is on.
Script This field contains the name of the script file associated
with this entry. When LiveWire connects to a service it
checks if the script field is filled in. If specified this
script file is started as soon as a connection has been
established. NOTE: If a script file is specified that does
not exist, LiveWire assumes it is supposed to start script
learning and create a script file for automated logon. For
more information about this feature read the Script Learn
Tutorial.
Password You may put your password here for reference. In addition this
field corresponds to the macro {PASSWORD} and can be accessed as
a variable by LiveWire scripts.
Protocol If you wish to have a default protocol for this service press
ENTER while the highlight bar is on this option. A pop-up menu
will appear listing all of the possible protocols. Move the
highlight bar to the default protocol for this entry and press
ENTER.
Emulation If you wish to have a default terminal emulation for this service
press ENTER while the highlight bar is on this option. A pop-up
menu will appear listing the terminal emulations LiveWire
supports. Move the highlight bar to the default emulation for
this entry and then press ENTER.
IEMSI To associate a specific IEMSI profile with this entry press
ENTER while the highlight bar is on this option. A list of
five possible IEMSI profiles will appear. Move the highlight
bar to the profile which corresponds to the logon
information for this service and press ENTER.
Last call LiveWire keeps the date of your last call to this system. You may
manually edit this field.
Total calls Total number of times you've called and successfully been
connected to this service.
mark [SPACEBAR]
This command will mark or unmark the entry with the highlight bar on it. If
the entry is not marked, it will become marked. If the entry is marked, it
will be unmarked. Marking entries allows you to do mass dialing, deleting,
and editing.
Note that the mark/unmark command moves the highlight bar to the next entry
automatically. This is to provide "power marking." In other words, holding
down the spacebar will continue highlighting consecutive entries as long as
the spacebar is held down.
multiple mark [M]
Multiple mark is a very useful and versatile command. It allows you to mark
entries by name, part of a name, or entry number. For example, if you press
M a window will appear asking for what to search for. Typing in 1,5,7 will
mark entries 1, 5, and 7. Here are some more examples:
1,10,50,3 Marks entries 1, 10, 50, and 3
1,5..20 Marks entries 1, and all entries 5 through 20
1..20,25..200 Marks entries 1 through 20 and entries 25 through 200
DataMirage Marks all entries that contain "DataMirage"
Data Marks all entries containing "Data." Note that this will match
entries such as: "DataMirage," "The DATA Line," and "Dumb Data."
There is no differentiation between caps and lowercase.
1,Data,5..20 Marks entry 1, all entries containing "Data," and entries 5
through 20.
unmark all [U]
This command quickly unmarks all entries.
delete entry [DEL]
This command does just what it says -- deletes the highlighted or marked
entries. This command will confirm deletion before it deletes the entry.
After each entry is deleted, LiveWire will ask if you want to remove the
blank entry and move the rest of the dialing directory up to fill the blank
spot.
insert entry [INS]
Pressing INS inserts a blank entry wherever the highlight bar may be. Note
that the new entry is created using the current configuration information
(ie: the modem speed, parity, bits, stopbits, duplex, and the fc=default
protocol).
sort entries [S]
This command will sort your phone book A through Z, Z through A, or by
total calls. All empty entries will be moved to the end of the list.
eXchange entries [X]
Exchange entries is a simple command that exchanges positions of two
entries in the phone book. Simply mark two entries (no more, no less) and
then press X. The position of the entries will be swapped.
compRess directory [R]
This command removes all blank entries from the dialing directory and
compresses all entries so that they are contiguous. This command will not
rearrange your phone book, it just moves entries up into spots where blank
entries used to be.
xFer entry info [F]
This feature facilitates the exchange of phone numbers. This command sends
basic information over the modem about the entry the highlight bar is on.
This is useful when you want to tell someone the phone number of a BBS you
like but do not want to type them the name or number. Simply go into your
dialer, move the highlight bar to the entry you want to send them
information about and press F. They will see on their end:
:::>DataMirage BBS <#>(408) 578-5850
(2400-N-8-1)
NOTE: If your friend is using LiveWire Communications also and he does not
have this number in his dialing directory LiveWire will automatically ask
him if he wants to add this number to his dialing directory.
Print entries [P]
This command will print your phone book to your printer. Upon pressing P,
LiveWire will verify that your printer is on PRN (LPT1:). If you printer is
on another printer port, communications port, or you want to print to a
file, simply type in the destination of phone book list. For example, LPT2:
for printer port 2, COM1: for com port 1, COM2: for com port 2, or
FONBOOK.TXT to send the listing to a file called FONBOOK.TXT.
Load other book [L]
The load other phone book command will allow you to load or start another
phone book. LiveWire can read LiveWire, Procomm, Procomm+, Qmodem 4.x and
5.0, Telix and Boyan phone directories. To load one of these phone books,
just enter the path and name of the phone book. To start a new phone book,
type in a new filename and a clean phone book will be made for you.
coNvert to LW format [N]
This command converts Boyan, Procomm, Procomm+, or Qmodem 4.x/5.0 phone
directories to LiveWire phone file format. First load the phone book you
wish to convert. Then, press N and type in a new name to save the converted
phone book as.
undo last actions [!]
This command accomplishes an undo of all of your previous commands up until
the last time the dialing directory was saved to the disk. The dialing
directory is saved automatically by LiveWire upon exiting LiveWire,
shelling to DOS, or loading a new phone file. The undo command accomplishes
its work by simply reloading the dialing directory without saving the
current changes. This means that not only your most recent change will be
undone, but all changes you made to the dialing directory since you've
started LiveWire. Be careful not to undo more than you expect.
View script [V]
This command brings up the full screen editor on the file specified in the
script field for the highlighted entry.
edit dial Codes [C]
This command allows you to edit the dialing codes A through J. Pressing C
brings up a window with the letters A through J listed with an entry field
beside each. If you put "9," in the dialing code A, whenever the letter A
appears in the number LiveWire is dialing (eg. A578-5850) the A will be
replaced with "9,". In this way it is easy to define and change prefixes
or postfixes on numbers. Defined dialing codes are listed at the top of the
dialing directory. To exit the edit dialing codes window, press ESC.
WARNING: It IS possible to create recursive infinite loops using dialing
codes. I don't suggest it, though.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.7. Registration and user support ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Registration and support
LiveWire is NOT free software! LiveWire is marketed under the shareware
marketing concept. You may use LiveWire for 30 days, after which you are
obligated to either register this software or pass it on to a friend. The fee
for registration is nominal and brings a lot of benefits. If you register once,
you will never have to buy another version of LiveWire. All future versions of
LiveWire marketed under the shareware concept can be registered with your serial
number -- even if the registration prices go up. You also get free (except for
long distance or toll charges) support through the home of LiveWire --
DataMirage Bulletin Board System.
Basic registration is $20
That includes:
Your registration number
Support through mail and the DataMirage BBS
Extended registration is $30
That includes:
Your registration number
A registered copy of the latest version of LiveWire
Support through mail and the DataMirage BBS
Complete registration is $45
That includes:
Your registration number
A registered copy of the latest version of LiveWire Communications
Support through mail and DataMirage BBS
A full laser printed manual with screen examples and the whole shmeal
Laser printed manuals can be purchased by themselves for $15.
To register, mail the registration blank on the following page to:
Les Novell
585 Hyde Park Drive
San Jose, CA 95136
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 2.8. Registration form (print this) ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Registration blank
Filling out your name, address, and phone number is a requirement. Your name will be used to personalize your serial number.
Your phone number and address will be kept so I can inform you of a new release of LiveWire.
Name Phone # (_____)______-_____________
_________________________________
Address
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
QUANTITY
( ) $20 Basic Registration
( ) $25 Extended Registration
( ) $45 Complete Registration
( ) $15 A Printed Manual
SUB TOTAL ______ + 8.75% tax for california residents = _______
I accept only checks and money orders. Please do not send your credit card number.
Mail To:Les Novell
585 Hyde Park Drive
San Jose, CA 95136
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3. Script Learn Tutorial ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
L i v e W i r e C o m m u n i c a t i o n s 2.1
S c r i p t L e a r n T u t o r i a l
Copyright 1993 Les Novell
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.1. Introduction to Scripting ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Introduction to Scripting
LiveWire 2.0 allows you to automate several communications
tasks such as logging into services such as BBSs, capturing
messages for later reading, sending messages, and
sending/receiving files.
After showing LiveWire how to accomplish these tasks you can
set it so that at a certain time of the day it will dial into the
system without any human intervention.
This is scripting, and it has a lot of uses. It might be
useful as a time saver for slow typists. It could also dial into
a long distance or heavily used services in the middle of the
night when rates are low. It can be set up so your own computer
can answer phone calls, allowing callers to receive files or send
messages.
Basically, scripting gives you the freedom to program your
computer to do just about any communication task you need. But
you don't need to be a programmer to write useful scripts. In
fact, LiveWire can write (or "Learn") simple scripts for you.
There are three types of people who use scripts: those who
let LiveWire or someone else write them scripts and do not know
how scripts actually work; those who let LiveWire or someone else
write their scripts but in addition know enough to make changes;
and those who use the script language to its full extent,
allowing them to do more complex tasks. Most casual users fit in
the first category.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.2. Using LiveWire to learn scripts ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Using LiveWire to learn scripts
LiveWire has the capability to record part or all of a
communications session and play it back automatically. This is
called script learn.
LiveWire accomplishes this "recording" by assuming that the
service you are connected to will be sending a prompt (eg: Enter
Your Name: or Press any key...) and that you will respond by
typing a response and pressing ENTER. LiveWire remembers what you
type at each prompt and simply responds in the same manner next
time it sees these prompts.
Let's run through an example learning session.
The first thing you must do is find a service you want to
call in your phone directory and put a filename in the "Script"
field. To edit this entry press "E" while the highlight bar is on
the entry. When the edit window appears move your highlight bar
to the entry "Script" and press ENTER. Now type a filename
(maximum of eight letters) into this field and press ENTER. Then
press Esc to save this entry.
Now dial the service. Note that as you dial an "L" appears
next to the entry where a check normally appears. This means that
LiveWire will automatically start learning as soon as you get
onto the service.
Logon normally to the service, but take note of how much of
your logon you want LiveWire to remember. For example, on most
services you would only need LiveWire to remember when you type
your name and password. Beyond this (reading bulletins and
messages) the service you call probably changes daily. If so,
LiveWire will become confused. It isn't smart enough to adapt to
these changes.
When you're ready to have LiveWire stop learning look at the
status line on your screen. It will tell you what keys you need
to press to stop script learning.
That's it! Next time you call the same service LiveWire
should automatically replay what it learned, key for key. If for
some reason LiveWire did not learn correctly or you made a
mistake while it was learning you can change the name of the
script filename in the phone book entry or erase the script file.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.3. Tips on using script learning ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Tips on learning scripts
LiveWire makes the assumption that when you press ENTER you
are finished typing so...
- Press ENTER after each prompt
- The use of hotkeys (selection of an option without having
to press ENTER) may not work
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.4. Editing a learned script ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Editing a learned script
Inside learned scripts
After a script has been learned by LiveWire modifications
may be necessary. Even computers make mistakes once in a while,
right? Since LiveWire uses a simple learning method it is not
difficult to edit learned scripts. Learned scripts do two things:
Wait for a prompt and send a response. In scripting this boils
down to something as simple as:
Find "Enter Your Name: "
Delay 100
Send "Les Novell^M"
These are the basic commands in any learned script. Here's
an example learned script
** LiveWire Learned Script File
** Set timeout and timeout subroutine
Set TimeOut=60
OnTimeOut timeouterror
** Set emulation and toggles
Emulation 1
Echo 0
Linefeeds 0
XonXoff 1
BSIsDel 0
Status 1
Doorway 0
:StartScript
Find "Press" <--Find "Press"
Delay 100
Send "^[^[" <--Send two ESCs
Find "ter your full name: " <--Find "Enter your full name:"
Delay 100
Send "les novell^M" <--Send my name and ENTER
Find "le ...^M^J^J^MPassword: "<--Find Password Prompt
Delay 100
Send "xxxxxx^M" <--Send my password and ENTER
Find "ΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûôΓûô^M^JΓûô " <--Find end of logon screen
Delay 100
Send "^M" <--Send ENTER to continue
Find "Return] to continue:"
Delay 100
Send "^M"
Halt
Although this may be a bit confusing at first, there are a
couple of things to keep in mind. First, LiveWire has no way of
knowing how much of the text is a prompt. Therefore, it considers
the last 20 letters as the prompt. This may cause more than one
line to be considered a prompt or may cut off part of a prompt.
This should not cause any problems but may cause the learned
script to look a little odd.
Another thing which may look odd are the ^M, ^J and ^[.
These indicate control characters. ^M is equal to Control-M.
Control-M, incidentally, is the ENTER key. Control-J is linefeed.
Control-[ is the escape key on your keyboard. Whenever you want
to simulate the ENTER key you would stick in a ^M.
Editing a script file
Editing a script file associated with a service in the
dialer is simple. Go into the dialer and move the highlight bar
to the service, then press the V (for View Script) key. After a
few seconds an editor will come up with the learned script.
If you intend to fix the script, the first thing you need to
know is at what point the script is failing. For example, if the
script never responds to a "PASSWORD:" prompt then you know that
it is not recognizing the prompt correctly.
Move your cursor to the place in the script which has the
command to find the password prompt. This may look like:
Find "PASSWORD:"
Any small difference in the actual prompt and the prompt LiveWire
expects will cause a problem. Some things to look for are:
+ Time/Date dependent information is part of the prompt
EG: "(23 minutes left) COMMAND:"
this should be changed to "COMMAND:"
+ Spaces where they do not belong
+ Odd control (^) characters
+ Line noise
+ The system prompt changed since you learned the script!
Change the prompt the script file is looking for using
standard editing keys (insert, delete, arrow keys) and save the
script by pressing ALT-X. If you make a huge mistake and want to
abort the script press and hold CTRL-K then press A for Abort.
ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ 3.5. Debugging a script file ΓòÉΓòÉΓòÉ
Debugging a script
If you are debugging a script that is too complex or you
can't seem to fix there are two special debugging commands for
scripts. The first, DEBUG, displays the currently executing
script command on the status line. The second, DEBUGDELAY, slows
down the script so that you can see what is being displayed on
the status line. To start debug insert the following commands at
the top of your script:
DEBUG ON
DEBUGDELAY 150
Where DEBUG ON turns on debug and DEBUGDELAY 150 sets a
delay of 150 milliseconds between script commands. If you can't
read a line of script every 150 milliseconds, you can increase
the delay. Delays of over 500 are usually excruciatingly slow.
To turn debug off in portions of the script you know are
correct, issue the commands:
DEBUG OFF
DEBUGDELAY 0
These are the default settings for DEBUG. These debugging
tools provide a simple trace-through feature. I realize they may
be inadequate for large projects because you still cannot view
variables and stack while the script is running. In this case you
must write your own script code to provide some debug
information.