Internet Info 1994 March/Internet Info CD-ROM (Walnut Creek) (March 1994).iso/answers/news/apple2/part2

Internet Message Format | 1994-04-05 | 49KB

Path: bloom-beacon.mit.edu!hookup!usc!sol.ctr.columbia.edu!caen!dmag
From: [e-mail] (Dan DeMaggio)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.apple2,news.answers
Subject: comp.sys.apple2 - Frequently Asked Questions (and answers) part 2 of 2
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Date: 6 Apr 1994 02:46:19 GMT
Organization: University of Michigan Engineering, Ann Arbor
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Summary: Covers many common questions, and contains many resources.
Originator: [e-mail]
Xref: bloom-beacon.mit.edu comp.sys.apple2:28546 news.answers:17716

Archive-name: apple2/part2
Last-modified: 5 Apr 1994
Version: 3.5.1


----------------------------------------------------------------------

Date:  6/7/93
From: [e-mail]
Subject: What is an Apple II?


 Excuse me while I wax a little philosophical, but the Apple II is one of the
 computers that started the computer revolution because it is so flexible and
 open--a pure hacker's machine, but also one that there is a lot of software
 to allow novices to use it too. The following are the various models of the
 Apple ][:

    Apple ][
    Apple ][+
    Clones, like the Multitech MPF-II/III, Franklin Ace
    Apple /// (w/emulation software)
    Software emulators for IBM, Mac and UNIX
    TrackStar 128 Hardware Emulator for IBM
    Apple ][e (Unenhanced)
E   Laser 128 (EX and EX/2)
E   Apple ][e hardware Emulation card for Macintosh
E   Apple ][e (Enhanced)
E   Apple //c
E   Apple //c+
E   Apple IIGS (ROM 00, 01, 03)

 (E) = Emulates an Enhanced //e



 Apple ][+: Surprisingly, the ][+ can run some of today's software. For
 instance, Davex and FredWriter. You can even run AppleWorks if you have more
 than 128K and a program called PlusWorks. Recommended configuration: 16K
 language card (in slot 0 with a ribbon cable running to the RAM), an
 80-column video card (not the same as a //e 80-column card), shift key
 modification (a wire running from shift key to game port). You can also add
 accelerators like the Rocket/Zip.

 Apple //e: The //e comes in two flavors: Enhanced and Unenhanced. The
 Enhancement kit allows an upgrade path by replacing 4 chips. Most current
 software requires an Enhanced //e, and sometimes 128K too. The current
 operating system is ProDos. The Apple //e is still useful for three major
 reasons: 1) It runs AppleWorks, a simple to use, yet sophisticated integrated
 program. 2) There are many Apples in schools, so there is a ton of
 educational software for it. 3) It is was and will always be a _Personal_
 computer. You can learn as little or as much as you want, and nothing stops
 you from learning about every nook and cranny in it. Ask any big name
 programmer in MS/DOS or Mac where they learned to program. Most of them
 taught themselves on a good ol' Apple //. Good programs for an Apple //e:
 AppleWorks 3.0 (from Claris) with TimeOut (Beagle Brothers), Copy ][+
 (Central Point), ProTerm (InSync), PrintShop (Broderbund). Recommended
 configuration: 80 extended column card, 512K to 1MB RAM, Enhanced, Hard Drive
 is nice. You can also speed it up with an accelerator (like the Rocket Chip
 or the Zip Chip or TransWarp).

 //c and //c+: The //c and //c+ are 'luggable' versions of an Enhanced //e,
 with many built-in 'cards'. Included are 2 serial ports, a mouse port, a 3.5"
 disk port and 128K of RAM. The //C+ has a built-in accelerator that runs at 4
 MHz. Even though they don't have slots, you can still add extra memory
 (there's room under the keyboard) and a hard drive (through the disk port--a
 bit slow by ordinary standards, but usable). Some software that uses the
 mouse may get confused on the //C+. The //C and //C+ cannot connect to
 AppleTalk. Recommended configuration: 1 MB RAM, 3.5" drive, maybe a Hard
 drive. Runs everything that an Enhanced //e runs.

 The Laser 128EX is a cross between the //c and an Enhanced //e. It is as
 luggable as a //c and has built-in 'cards', and an accelerator. It also has a
 slot to expand. If you want to add a card, you may have to disable the
 internal UDC (for 3.5" drives) or the internal 1MB memory expansion. Runs
 almost everything that the //c and //e runs.

 The Apple IIGS represents a giant leap in the Apple // line. It can still run
 //e software, but has a better processor (16-bit), a new super-hires graphics
 mode, a toolbox in ROM (just like the Mac) and a 32 oscillator Ensoniq sound
 chip. It can not only run ProDos, but it can also run GS/OS, a sophisticated
 operating system very much like the Macintosh's OS. The original GS ROM 00 (I
 think they all have the Woz signature) must have several chips upgraded to
 boot/run current software. The ROM 01 had 256K on the motherboard, while the
 ROM 03 has 1 MB. Although there were a few ROM changes, the current system
 software will work patch the toolbox ROMs to look identical. Recommended
 configuration: 1.25 MB lets you boot up and launch programs. With 2 MB, you
 will have room for Desk Accessories. Go for 4 MB if you want a RAM disk
 (useful if you don't have a hard drive) or do a lot of Graphics work. Adding
 a hard drive is highly recommended. You can also speed it up with a TransWarp
 GS or Zip GS.

 The Apple ][e emulation card is a card that fits in certian Macs that lets
 one run Apple //e software. It is actually more like a //c because the card
 is not expandable like a //e. There is a place on the back of the card to
 plug in a UniDisk 5.25" and a joystick.

------------------------------

Date: 1/1/93
From: [e-mail]
Subject: Some Common Questions (with answers!)


Q: What is 8 bit and 16 bit?

A: That indicates how big the chunks of data are that the CPU can manipulate.
 The Apple IIGS is a 16-bit machine and all previous Apple ]['s are 8-bit.
 This is only one of the reasons you cannot run GS software on a //e.

Q: How do I get out of Basic (that little "]" prompt and flashing cursor?

A: Type the word "BYE" and press return. Now get out the Apple manual 'A Touch
 of BASIC' and read it.

Q: Can the Apple II connect to SCSI devices?

A: Yes. See the section on SCSI in this FAQ.

Q: How can I transfer stuff to/from and IBM/Mac?

A: Here's a summary: [Note that you can always do transfers by modem or Null
 Modem]
 ==== Apple //e ---> Macintosh
 There's the IIe Emulation Card that fits into the LC, LC II, LC III, Performa
     4000 and the Color Classic. The card has a port for a 5.25" drive, from
     which you could probably copy things to/from the Mac.
 The ProDos File System Manager is an init (available via FTP) that allows you
     to use ProDos 3.5" disks as if they were normal Mac disks. [You will have
     to download the entire disk to get that one file.]
FTP:  ftp.apple.com /aii/lc.iiecard /*
 Apple File Exchange (comes with Mac system software) allows you to copy
     to/from ProDos (3.5") disks.


 ==== Apple //e <--- Macintosh
 The programs A2FX and HFSLink will allow you to read Mac disks in a regular
     3.5" Apple //e drive. They don't work with High Density disks though.
FTP:  apple2.archive.umich.edu /apple2/8bit/util/a2fx.8.bsq
FTP:  apple2.archive.umich.edu /apple2/8bit/util/hfslink.b3.bsq


 ==== Apple //e ---> IBM
 See also the CTI drive (next question)


 ==== Apple //e <--- IBM
 If you have a new Apple High Density 3.5" Drive and High Density 3.5"
     controller card, then you can use the program MSDOSCOPY (via FTP) to read
     IBM disks. (I'm not sure if this does high density IBM Disks or not.)
FTP:  apple2.archive.umich.edu /apple2/8bit/util/nsdos.cnvt.bsq
 See also the CTI drive (next question)


 ==== Apple IIGS ---> Macintosh
 See above for //e to Mac, or below for Mac to GS


 ==== Apple IIGS <--- Macintosh
 GS/OS (Apple system software for the GS) 6.0 will read and write Mac disks
     just fine if you have the HFS FST installed.
 Note that you want to read high density (HD) disks, you will need BOTH the
     Apple HD 3.5" drive <AND> the HD 3.5" Drive Controller Card.


 ==== Apple IIGS ---> IBM
 The Applied Engineering PC Transporter has a utility to copy files from
     MS/DOS to/from ProDos (regardless of disk size). Unfortunately, the PCT
     often has problems and AE is unwilling to actively support the card.
 See also the CTI drive (next question)


 ==== Apple IIGS <--- IBM
 If you have a new Apple High Density 3.5" Drive and High Density 3.5"
     controller card, then you can use GS/OS 6.0.1's MSDOS FST to read IBM
     3.5" disks. Note that Apple 5.25"s don't have the hardware to read/write
     IBM 5.25" disks.
 See also the CTI drive (next question)


Q: What's the CTI Drive?

A: The CTI drive allows you to hook up IBM 3.5" and 5.25" disk drives (no High
 Density support yet) to your Apple II. [IBM drives are cheaper] Some software
 is included to read MS/DOS disks on your Apple. Otherwise, ProDos and GS/OS
 recognize them like normal drives. See CTI's address in the resources
 section.

Q: How do I USE stuff I have transferred to/from an IBM/Mac?

A: In general, only certian types of files can be usefully transferred
 back-and-forth between computers. One thing that you CANNOT do is run
 programs designed for another type of computer. But often you can transfer
 data files between similar programs (Spreadsheets) on different platforms.
 Here are some pointers:

 One helpful hint is that all computers can read text files. Most word
 processors can save your file as text and import as text. But with text
 files, you will loose all your formatting (font type, centering and
 so-forth). For spreadsheets, saving as DIF will make conversion a breeze.
 Databases can be saved as tab-delimited records. (Note that in AppleWorks,
 you have to go to Print to save in these formats). Look for options like
 "Import" or "Export" (or "Save As" in the Mac world).

 If you want to do better, there are several options available. A commercial
 program called MacLinkPlus can do some conversions. Some Claris programs do
 conversions automagically. Also, AFE can convert between some kinds of
 documents (For example AppleWorks Word Processor to MsWorks) if you have the
 right translator.
FTP:  sumex-aim.stanford.edu /info-mac/util/afe-appleworks-msworks.hqx

 For IBM folk,The CrossWorks program can convert between many Apple and IBM
 formats, and even comes with a universal null modem cable. Alternately, If
 you use AppleWorks a lot, you can get SuperWorks for the IBM, a clone of
 AppleWorks. It can import AppleWorks files directly. For graphics,
 SuperConvert can convert between all Apple-specific graphics formats and many
 Mac, Amiga and IBM specific formats. It can also save as GIF, which is a
 universal standard.

Q: What's the scoop on the new HD 3.5" drive?

A: In order to do High Density on the Apple //, you will need both the High
 Density 3.5" drive and the new Apple 3.5" controller. If you don't have both,
 you will only be able to do regular density. Of course, you will also need
 High Density Disks.

 Once you have collected the above items, you are in for a pleasant surprise.
 ProDos 8 programs not only recognize it, but most programs format and
 recognize HD disks just fine. You can even boot off of a HD disk, allowing
 plenty of room for GS/OS Desk Accessories and such.

 There are a few drawbacks: You cannot boot copy-protected software or (or
 some FTA demos.) Also, it takes up a slot, even on the GS.

Q: AppleWorks won't print to my printer. What gives?

A: AppleWorks will refuse to print to a slot that has a disk device. In the
 past, this worked well because if you try to print to a slot that has a disk
 controller in it, you will re-boot. But now, this can cause problems when a
 disk device is 'mapped' into your printer slot (due to a limitation in
 ProDos, you can only have 2 drives per slot. Extra partitions on your hard
 drive will be re-mapped to other slots). If you have a RamFast, you can
 re-map the drives to different slots. Otherwise, (for AW 3.0) use this patch:
 POKE 768,128: POKE 769,10 and then BSAVE APLWORKS.SYSTEM,TSYS,A$300,L2,B$AE3.
 If you didn't understand that, e-mail me, or look into John Link's SuperPatch
 program, which includes many more patches.

Q: Can I use Macintosh Monitors or 3.5" drives with my ][?

A: In general, no. Apple's 3.5" drive has logic to sense which machine it is
 hooked up to (Apple II or Macintosh) and it works accordingly. Most 3rd party
 drives don't bother to put in Apple II support in their drives. The Mac
 monitors cannot be used with the ][ line, not even the GS.

Q: Can I hook up a LaserWriter, DeskJet, etc to my Apple //e?

A: Yes, all the above connections have regular serial or parallel connections.
 The tricky part is getting them to do what you want. The DeskJet, for example
 will print very nice looking text with regular old "PR#1". But if you want to
 change the font or print graphics, you may have to purchase some software.
 One excellent program for these types of printers is PublishIt 4. You won't
 believe the output you can get from a //e. For AppleWorks fans, there is the
 program called SuperPatch. Among it's patches is a cool DeskJet 500 printer
 driver. You can print sideways, and change fonts with normal AppleWorks
 commands.

Q: Can I hook up a LaserWriter, DeskJet, etc to my Apple IIGS?

A: On the GS, you can hook up a LaserWriter via AppleTalk or direct serial
 connection. A GS program can typically print to a LaserWriter if it's
 connected to the GS via AppleTalk. If you get a DeskJet, or PaintJet, etc,
 you can hook them up via the serial port. But in order to use them
 effectively, you will want Harmony from Vitesse (better) or Independence
 (cheaper) from Seven Hills. They are new printer drivers for GS/OS programs
 only. If you want to print from an 8-bit program, see the previous question.

Q: Can I hook up a scanner up to my //e? Can it do OCR (Optical Character
     Recognition)?

A: Yes and Yes. Just pick up a Quickie scanner (by Vitesse) and InWords (by
 WestCode Software). You can scan 4" columns (you must have 512K to 1 Meg) and
 can even paste them together to make 8" scans. Then you can use InWords to
 "read" text and put it into a text file or AppleWorks Word Processor file.

Q: What version is my computer?

A: Apple //e: The major division is between the Enhanced and unenhanced
 models. Look at your computer while re-booting. If it says "APPLE ][", it is
 not enhanced. The enhanced computers will say "Apple //e". You can upgrade it
 yourself by getting the Apple //e Enhancement kit. (It contains 4 chips to
 replace on your motherboard.) Many newer programs will not work unless you
 have an Enhanced //e. If you have a //c or GS, or a Laser 128, you have
 Enhanced //e compatibility. There are also some older //e's that are not
 capable of double-hires. Check the serial number on the motherboard (in the
 back, by the power-on led). If it ends in -A, you may need a motherboard swap
 (unless you have the PAL version).

 Apple //GS: There are 3 major versions of the GS: Check the initial power-up
 screen. It will say ROM 01, ROM 03. If it does not say either, you have the
 Original (Woz Signature edition). You must upgrade it in order to run current
 system software. The ROM 01 has 256K on the motherboard, while the ROM 03 has
 1 MB on the motherboard. All the enhancements of the ROM 03 (except the 1MB,
 of course) can be added to the ROM 01 simply by booting up with current
 system software.

 Apple //c: Go into Basic and type "PRINT PEEK (64447)" and press return. If
 it says 255, you have a very old //c. See your dealer about getting an
 upgrade. If it says 0, you can do 3.5" drives, but you don't have the memory
 expansion connector. If it says 3 You have the memory expansion. If it says
 4, you have the latest model of the //c. If it says 5, you have a //c+.

Q: How do I get cool Mac Icons and fonts onto my GS?

A: Find the program "Resource Spy"
FTP:  apple2.archive.umich.edu /pub/apple2/gs/util/resource.spy.bsq

Q: What programming languages are available for the Apple ][?

A: Larry W. Virden maintains The Apple II Programmer's Catalog of Languages
 and Toolkits. It's archived on several FTP sites. (The main one fisrt)
FTP:  idiom.berkeley.ca.us /pub/compilers-list/AppleIICatalog*
FTP:  apple2.archive.umich.edu
         /apple2/misc/textfiles/programming.languages.*.txt

Q: My GS control panel keeps resetting to the defaults and/or forgetting the
     date.

A: It's probably your battery. If you have a ROM 03 GS, you just pop it out an
 get another. On the ROM 01, you will need a Slide-On Battery Replacement Kit
 from Night Owl Productions. See address in 'Resources' section.

Q: I want a Y-adapter for my GS keyboard.

A: Redmond Cable has an ADB Y-connector cable for separating your mouse from
 the side of your keyboard (also can be used to work around a failing ADB port
 on the keyboard). See the 'Resources' section of this FAQ.

Q: What programs are there for conversion of graphic images?

A: There are quite a few:
 IIGIF is a freeware GIF converter for any Apple II (but there is a patch
     needed for the Apple //c). It reads in GIF and saves as hires or
     double-hires.
FTP:  apple2.archive.umich.edu /apple2/8bit/graphics/iigif.bsc
FTP:  apple2.archive.umich.edu /apple2/8bit/graphics/iic.patch.for.iigif
 MACDOWN is also freeware and lets you do the same with MacPaint pics.
 A ProDos 8 version of The Graphics Exchange (don't know much about it).

 [The following software only work on an Apple IIGS]
 The Graphics Exchange converts between many formats of graphics.
 SuperConvert loads all GS formats, plus GIFS and other non-GS specific
     formats and saves in all GS formats (including Finder Icon files). It has
     more dithering options than most of the other programs, but you may have
     to play with it to find the best one.
 SHRConvert is the earlier, shareware, predecessor to SuperConvert. It does a
     pretty good job on the types of graphics it supports.
FTP:  apple2.archive.umich.edu /apple2/gs/graphics/shrconvert.2.1.bsq
 Platinum Paint is a commercial program that can import all GS formats plus
     MacPaint. It can only save in SHR and Apple Preferred. Version 2.0 can
     make Animations too!
 ShowPic 6 is a shareware NDA that can display most GS formats. You can also
     save the resulting graphic as a IIGS SHR painting.
FTP:  apple2.archive.umich.edu /apple2/gs/gsos/nda/showpic.6.0.bsq
 Dream Grafix supports all 3200 color picture types and also 16 color and 256
     color pictures. This is a very impressive commercial paint program with
     its 3200 color support.

 Note: 'All GS formats' includes Superhires (type $C1 and $C0), hires,
 double-hires and PrintShop/PrintShop GS.

Q: Where can I get old games and stuff?

A: See the resources section (Big Red Computer Club, TMS Peripherials, Quality
 Computers, Resource Central.) There is also a project called Lost Classics
 that is trying to track down origninal authors to get them to donate their
 stuff to the Public Domain.

Q: I have an old CPM / PASCAL / DOS 3.3 disk. How do I get it into ProDos?

A: The //e system software, the DOS3.3 FST (GS/OS System 6), and Copy ][+ can
 all convert Dos 3.3 files into ProDos. This is only helpful for text files,
 graphics, and some Basic programs. For ProDos, CPM, Pascal, Dos 3.3, try the
 program Chameleon. It's only drawback is that it does not recognize hard
 disks. (just use a temporary ProDos floppy disk)
FTP:  apple2.archive.umich.edu /apple2/8bit/util/chameleon.bsq

Q: I'm getting Error XXX. What's it mean?

A: Some common errors and their cause:

ProDos Errors:
UNABLE TO LOAD PRODOS   - You can't boot a disk unless it has ProDos and a
                          something.SYSTEM file on it
$27    I/O Error.  Possibly a bad disk?  Verify it with Prosel or Copy II Plus
$44    Path not found (You gave an invalid directory name)
$45    Volume not found (you didn't type in the right disk name)
$46    File not found (you didn't type a valid filename)

GS/OS errors:
0911   Either your GS is overheating, or the ADB port is having problems
0301   Bad TransWarp
0308   see 8021
8020   Either random TransWarp, or SCSI (try using different SCSI connector)
8021   If you get this at random times and you have a HS Apple SCSI, it's
       probably a version conflict.  Install the SCSI drivers from your GS/OS
       disk, not your HS Apple SCSI disk.


Q: How do you copy from a 5.25" disk to 3.5" disk?

A: ProDos has no problems with this, as long as you copy by files. Note that
 ProDos can only have 51 files in the main directory. If you try to exceed
 that, it will give you a cryptic 'Disk Full' error. If there really is space
 left on the disk, you can copy all the files into a subdirectory to get
 around the 51-file limit. In theory, you can put an unlimited number of files
 in a Subdirectory, but in practice, you should limit them to a few hundred.

Q: Why does my Apple II lose characters when I'm using the modem?

A: Check the following: 1) Your software may need interrupts enabled. Examine
 DIP Switch 2-6 on your Super Serial Card. 2) If you have an unenhanced //e,
 you need to enhance your //e. 3) If you have a //c, it may be one of the ones
 that had a serial port problem. Talk to your dealer about upgrading it for
 2400 baud support.

Q: What happened to Beagle Brothers?

A: Quality computers is now distributing the Apple II Beagle Brothers
 packages. In fact, they are even expanding the TimeOut line of AppleWorks
 enhancement packages. On paper, Beagle no longer exists, but Quality is
 trying to recruit the same programmers to continue to create new Appleworks
 add-ons. BB has retired their extremely old stuff (mostly DOS 3.3) and now
 you can download it (for free) exclusively on the QC BBS. (email
 [e-mail] for details).

Q: Is the Apple // dead?

A: Old computers never die, they just get upgraded. Ok, ok, maybe not. But as
 long as the computer is still useful to you, it is not dead. Many people
 continue to use their Apple II's to run their business, control robots, etc.

Q: Yes, but isn't the Apple // wimpy? Isn't it old technology? Isn't 1 MHz
     slow in today's computer world?

A: You don't always need a 50 MHz computer to do word processing, or a 3-D
 relational spreadsheet to do checkbook balancing. Of course, I wouldn't use
 my Apple to run Mathmatica. Use the right tool for the job. The Apple // is
 simple enough that one can take total control of it. Write directly to to
 screen. Re-write the operating system. Do cool hardware hacks with it. Write
 a simple basic 'guess-the-number' game. Whatever. The point is that many
 programmers write software for the Apple // because it is FUN as well as
 challenging.

 As for the 'old' bit: the IBM PC was released well over a decade ago too. The
 GS is to an Apple II+ as the IBM 486 is to the IBM XT. (Ok, so maybe that's
 stretching it a bit). As for speed, you can't directly compare those because
 the underlying processors are different. The Apple gets more done in 1 clock
 cycle than the IBM processor. Really, the only speed that matters is REAL
 time. Windows and fancy graphics can really load a computer down. Even though
 hardware is getting faster and better, software is getting larger and slower.
 You can't win. Compare the time to start up the following word processors:
 FrameMaker on a Sun SparcStation w/X-windows (30 seconds), M.S. Word on a Mac
 w/System 7 (2 seconds) classic AppleWorks (instantly --I have a RamFast ;).

------------------------------

Date: 1/1/93
From: [e-mail]
Subject: System 6.0 mini-FAQ


Subtopic:  Common Problems
================================

 Some programs are incompatible with CloseView. Symptoms are the mouse wipes
 out everything it moves over. Remove CloseView or inactivate it in the system
 folder. May still cause troubles if active, but set to 'off'. See GS Technote
 #91.

 EasyAccess is also incompatible with some applications, (especially on ROM
 01). Symptoms are a locked keyboard, and not being able to reboot. Remove it
 or make it inactive.

 Missing features of system 6? Perhaps you just used easy install, which
 doesn't install all the bells and whistles. Try clicking on customize and add
 the nifty things like Calculator, Find File, HFS FST, etc. You can also read
 the Shortcuts file on SystemTools2 for some great keyboard shortcuts.

 Finder icons that match by name and have a leading wildcard require uppercase
 letters. For example, a name like "*.txt" never matches, but "*.TXT" works
 fine (it matches regardless of a file's actual capitalization). (This was
 accidental; the 5.0.4 Finder did not care about capitalization in icon
 files.)

 Two misconceptions about System 6: The A2.RAMCARD is not for the GS's /RAM5.
 It only works with "slinky" (i.e. standard slot) cards. Also, the DOS 3.3 FST
 has nothing to do with MS-DOS.

Subtopic:  Tips & Hints
================================

 The AppleShare logon programs have always looked for a folder named "Mail"
 inside your user folder whenever you log onto a user volume. If there's any
 items in there, they present a dialog that says "You have mail." Under SSW
 6.0, that also sends a SysBeep2 request so you can get the sound of your
 choice.

 If you don't want to see your icons on boot, set bit 1 (i.e. the 2nd LSB) of
 BRAM Location $5F. Be sure not to mess with the other bits. Use the toolbox
 calls!

 The FinderExtras folder goes in the same folder as the Finder (generally
 *:System).

 If you don't like yellow folders in the Finder you can change the byte at
 offset +65 in the Finder resource with type $C001 and ID 1. Change the $E0 to
 whatever you want (the first digit is the default folder foreground color,
 and the low nibble is for the outline color). Only folders that do *not*
 already have a color recorded in a Finder.Data file get the default color.

Subtopic:  If you have a RamFast
================================

 The RamFast and ProDos 2.0.1 both try to do re-mapping of drives to unused
 slots. This can cause problems, mostly when launching and returning from
 ProDos 8 applications (crashes or wants you to insert disk). Solution:
 Configure the RamFast not to re-map. If you have a RamFAST with a ROM
 revision less than 2.01a, you need to get a newer ROM from CVT. Otherwise,
 V2.01c allows setting Slot Priority Allocations to 0 which will let ProDos
 deal with them. V3.0 allows you to choose between RamFast mapping (works now)
 and ProDos 8 mapping. If you can't wait, you can Patch ProDos 2.0 not to
 re-map slots. Look for "10 BF C9 A5 D0 07" and change the $A5 to $00 (should
 be byte $1A3 in the 5th block of the file). Hack at your own risk.

Subtopic:  If you have a Vulcan or AE High Density disk
================================

 Due to problems with the Vulcan, when booting, it asks for your System Disk.
 Just put the Vulcan driver on your boot disk, boot it, and then launch the
 installer. Alternately, put the driver on the installer disk and boot it.
 (but you have to delete some of the installer scripts first) For the AE High
 Density Drive, be sure to remove Apple's 3.5" driver when putting on AE's.

Subtopic:  If you have ProSel
================================

 Rename start to something else before running the installer, or else the
 Finder won't be installed. Believe me, you don't want to miss out on Finder
 6.0!

Subtopic:  If you have an AMR 3.5"
================================

 If the computer hangs (mostly at the Standard File dialogue box) with no disk
 in the drive, try putting one in. What's happening is that GS is reading the
 status from the drive, and the drive won't return anything unless there is a
 disk in the drive. Just stick a disk in and all will be fine. If it really
 annoys you, either deactive the 3.5" driver (get IR so you can double-click
 to re-activate it) or simply keep a disk in the drive at all times. This is
 not a problem under ProDos 8.

Subtopic:  GSCII+ & HFS Note
================================

 There is a problem with the HFS FST, but only GSCII seems to be affected.
 When de-binscii-ing files, put the output onto a ProDos volume, not an HFS
 one.

 [ Mega-thanks to Dave Lyons & friends for these. ]

------------------------------

Date: 1/1/93
From: [e-mail]
Subject: What to do with an Apple ][?


Q: What can you hook up to an Apple ][?

A: Hard Drives, Scanners, Video Digitizers, Laser Printers, Video Overlay
 Cards, Tape backups, Inkjet Printers, 24 pin Dot Matrix Printers, EPROM
 Burners, AppleTalk Networks, High Density 3.5" drives, serial cards, parallel
 cards, audio Digitizers, CP/M boards (Z-80 processor), an IBM-on-a-card, 9600
 baud modems, D/A and A/D cards, joysticks, mice, graphics tablets, touch
 screens, extended keyboards, track balls, several Megabytes of RAM, Real-time
 clocks, (cheap) IBM disk drives and of course, Users!

 This list is by no means exhaustive: This is just what I personally have
 done. All of it is available NOW, and can be done on any Apple //e. In the
 very near future, you will be able to hook up:

 EitherTalk Networks, DSP boards, and cheap FAX modems.

Q: What can you do with an Apple ][?

A: As if the above weren't impressive, how about: Optical Character
 recognition, Desktop publishing, Integrated Spread sheet, Database and Word
 Processing, Interactive fiction adventure games, Arcade quality games,
 Educational games, Programming, Telecommunications, Inventory, Accounting,
 Money Management, and that's not even scratching the surface.

Q: What can the //e can "borrow" from other computers? (w/the right software)

A: GS bitmapped fonts, Mac Disks, MacPaint pictures, GIF pictures, just about
 any Mac SCSI device (Hard Drives, Tape backup), Mac sounds?, many archive
 formats (like uudecode), any serial device (EPROM burners, FAX modems,
 mega-fast modems w/ MNP5), etc.

Q: What can the GS can "borrow" from other computers? (w/the right software)

A: Mac bitmapped fonts, Mac Icons, Mac and Windows TrueType fonts, Mac Disks,
 Amiga Mod songs, MacPaint pictures, MacWrite documents, GIF pictures,
 WordPerfect documents, just about any Mac SCSI or ADB device (including Hard
 Drives, Pen Mice, etc), Mac sounds, Many archive formats (.uu, .zip, .arc,
 .sit, .hqx, etc), any serial device (EPROM burners, FAX modems, mega- fast
 modems w/hardware MNP-5), etc.

 If you are interested in doing any of the above, feel free to e-mail me
 ([e-mail]). Someday, maybe I'll fill in the specific software or
 hardware you need to do any of the above. If you have any additions, let me
 know too!

------------------------------

Date:  8/8/93
From: [e-mail]
Subject: Resources for the Apple II


 Listed below are some places to get information about the Apple II. You
 should also try your local user group (and the user group library), friends,
 relatives, library, school, FTP sites, books, and etc. One good book is "The
 Whole Internet Users Guide & Catalog" by Ed Kroll, published by O'Reilly &
 Associates Inc.

 Chuck Orem (PO Box 1014, Benton City, WA, 99320-1014 USA) has a disk of all
 the stuff you need to get your Apple II online. Talk to him for details
 ([e-mail]).

 Edlie Electronics (800-645-4722 or 516-735-3330) is selling "The ProDOS
 User's Kit". It seems to be your basic ProDOS operating system and a manual.
 I doubt that it's a current version, but it's worth a look if you need ProDOS
 on 5.25". Heck, for $1.95, you can't go wrong. [there is a minimum order, and
 I have never tried it...]

 Washington Apple Pi (301-681-6136, 301-593-0024 BBS [7 bits, odd parity]) has
 an extremely active Apple /// Special Interest Group. They have 250 PD disks
 and have funded a new revision of the OS. Contact [e-mail]
 (Dave Ottalini).

 Educational Resources (800-624-2926) sells educational programs for the II.

 MECC (800-685-MECC) is a group of educators that grouped together and started
 making educational software available inexpensively.

 The Cynosure BBS (410-549-2584 Settings: 8 data bits, No parity 1 stop bit,
 up to 14400 bps) has a license to distribute system Apple software (ProDos
 and GS/OS). Contact [e-mail] (Doug Granzow).

 You can also get system software off of Apple Computer's FTP site. It is
 maintained by DTS in their spare time. Thanks guys!
FTP:  ftp.apple.com ./aii/sys.soft/*

 The Apple User Group Connection (800-538-9696 ext 500) can tell you the
 closest Apple II (or Macintosh) User Group. (Check Quality Computers too..)

 Resource-Central (913-469-6502, FAX: [phone]) publishes an 8-page
 monthly newsletter, but it is packed with information. It has technical
 discussions and philosophical discussions. It is also available on disk, with
 many PD/SW programs each month. Resource Central also publishes many monthly
 disks, including ones for HyperStudio users, TimeOut users, HyperCard users,
 and probably others. All are on 3.5" disk only. They also have taken over
 APDA's job of keeping the latest and greatest from Apple and some 3rd party
 vendors. They have programming tools and manuals not available anywhere else
 (like the Video Overlay Card Development kit, Tool 35/SynthLab docs, etc).
 Contact A2-CENTRAL, UNCLE-DOS, or DENNIS.DOMS on GEnie.

 Silicon Systems (714-731-7110) makes that DTMF decoder chip that Apple-Cat
 modem owners are always looking for. Part #: SSI 75T201 - Integrated DTMF
 Receiver. 22 pin DIP

 Larry Beyer (312-735-9010) likes to fix InnerDrive hard drives.

 You can become an associate in the Apple Developer Program for $350 (for Mac
 and Apple II) or a mere $150 (for Apple II only) by calling 1-408-974-4897.
 That gets you Develop magazine, Apple Technical notes, the Apple Developer
 CD, discounts on Apple products, and more! If you want to license Apple
 Software for distribution with your product you can get information by
 calling 1-408-974-4667. (Note: You need a license to distribute Apple System
 Software, including ProDOS, and the Installer.)

 Apple has a toll-free customer assistance line for handling sales questions
 and user concerns. This toll-free line is not designed to be a technical
 support hotline, but instead is an extension to the comprehensive Apple
 customer relations effort. The Customer Assistance Center is open Monday
 through Friday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific time by dialing 1-800-776-2333.

 GS+ Magazine (800-662-3634 orders, or 615-843-3988 or 913-469-6507 FAX) is
 published bi-monthly, as a magazine and as an accompanying disk. They are a
 great source for unique programs, which are not available anywhere else. They
 also have reviews of new software. Of course, it's GS specific. Contact:
 GSPlusDiz (on AOL orDelphi), JWANKERL (on GEnie), or
 [e-mail].

 Hyperstudio Network (609-446-3196) is a quarterly newsletter about
 HyperStudio. They put out an annual 'Best of HyperStudio' disk of stacks, and
 have discounts on HyperStudio accessories. They even do some teacher-oriented
 stuff.

 Computist (P.O. Box 110846, Tacoma, WA 98411) is a publication devoted to
 gathering and distributing information on removing copy protection from Apple
 II software.

 Softdisk and Softdisk GS (800-831-2694 or 318-221-8718) are monthly disk
 magazines containing a variety of software (PD/SW, clip art, reviews, etc).
 Softdisk is available on 5.25" or 3.5" disks. Softdisk GS is available only
 on 3.5" disks. Contact [e-mail].

 USUS (Keith Frederick (Secretary), P.O. Box 1148, La Jolla, CA 92038) is an
 international non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and influencing
 software standards to aid in the development of portable software. They have
 a large software library including a lot of source code (for almost every
 language or computer).

 Night Owl (913-362-9898) makes a slide-on battery for ROM 01 GS's.

 Shareware Solutions II (166 Alpine Street, San Rafael, CA 94901) is a new
 Apple II magazine with the latest scoops, written by long time Apple II
 writer Joe Kohn. "finger" (UNIX command) or mail [e-mail].

 Adam Barr ([e-mail]) and Cindy Field (former InCider/A+
 editor) are starting a new Apple II newsletter, only this one is only
 available via e-mail.

 Redmond cable (206-882-2009) makes and sells all sorts of custom cables.

 Quality Computers (800-777-ENHAnce or 313-774-7200, 313-774-7740 Tech
 Support, 313-774-2698 FAX) not only sells Apple II products, but maintains a
 list of user groups and publishes an informative newsletter geared towards
 educators (called Enhance). They also published AppleWorks 4.0! To get a QC
 catalog and a free subscription to Enhance, just call! Contact QC (on GEnie),
 QualityCom (on AOL) or [e-mail].

 NAUG, the National AppleWorks Users Group (313-454-1115, 313-454-1965 FAX,
 615-359-8238 BBS) is a group devoted to that wonder program, AppleWorks.

 The Big Red Computer Club, (402-379-4680) or BRCC, (formerly the Big Red
 Apple Club, sells all kinds of good software that you can't get anywhere
 else. (including discontinued games, etc.)

 TMS Pheripherals (800-ASK-4TMS) also sells good stuff (discontinued games,
 etdc)

 Alltech (800-995-7773 orders, 619-721-2823 FAX, 619-721-7733 Technical
 Support/inquiries) sells all kinds of replacement parts for Apple II's. They
 are also pretty knowledgable about the II. and inquiries)

 Sun Remarketing (800-821-3221) also sells used Apples parts and books.

 A new ShareWare-Fee payment service has been established for info, write to:

   Some Assembly Required                  [e-mail]  OR
   1132 Adelaide St. N.  #719              [e-mail]
   London, Ontario  N5Y 2N8
   Canada


 Parkhurst Micro Products (510-837-9098) sells ANSITerm, a GS-only
 communications program that supports X/Y/Z-Modem (plus variants), Kermit,
 VT-100, Color ANSI, and offers features like a text editor, a large
 scrollback buffer, and macros.

 Conversion Technology (801-364-4171) sells a drive that allows you to hook up
 cheap IBM 3.5" and 5.25" disk drives to you Apple II.

 Sequential Systems (800-759-4549 or 303-666-4549,800-999-1717 tech,
 303-666-7797 BBS) announced software for the GS that will let you use many
 (but not all) CD-ROMs. Audio, Still Pictures and searching text are
 supported. Contact [e-mail]
     (More resources to be added as I think of them. Email suggestions to
 [e-mail]. as always, let me know of any mistakes, updates, corrections,
 additions, etc.)

------------------------------

Date: 1/1/93
From: [e-mail]
Subject: General guidelines on How To Troubleshoot

 First, resist the temptation to install all your new toys at once. Take it
     one step at a time and test everything after adding each item.
 Leave the computer plugged in, but turned off when installing cards. Touch
     the power supply before and often during your work. Better yet, use a
     wrist strap tied to ground through a 1 Megaohm resistor.
 When asking others for help, it is essential to know the EXACT error message
     you are getting. Also, be as specific as possible. Saying "It did not
     work" or "I could not get any farther" is not helpful. Exactly which
     screen did it stop at? Does it respond to any input at all? What had you
     done up to that point? Is it reproducible any other way?
 Make sure you have the required components for the program. Does it require
     an Enhanced //e? More RAM? A separate boot disk?
 Never use your original disks. Make a backups and store the write-protected
     originals in a safe place.
 Be sure to keep your disks away from stray magnetic fields emanating from
     phones, monitors and speakers.
 If you have an accelerator, try to disable it or take it out entirely. It may
     not be compatible with the new item.
 Is the problem re-producible? If so, what are the MINIMUM actions to
     reproduce it?
 Check all your cable connections. Do not disconnect or connect any cables
     with the computer on.
 Try pulling out other cards and disconnect your joystick. If you have a lot
     of cards, you might consider a Heavy-Duty Power Supply from A.E. It
     supplies 6 Amps instead of a measly 2.5 Amps. Test the power supply with
     a voltmeter while the computer is on.
 Call the manufacturer to see if there is an upgrade or a fix.

Subtopic:  Trouble shooting and good maintenance
================================
 Try the system self-test: hold down the Control key, the Open Apple key, and
     the Option (or Solid Apple) key. Then press and release Reset. Lastly,
     let up on the other keys. Sit back and 'Watchen Der Blinken Lighten.'
 Most RAM cards come with a memory tester. Try running it in continuous mode
     for several hours, even if your RAM seems to be working.
 Write down your configuration when you have it working (for future
     reference).
 Verify your disk(s) with Copy ][+ or the Finder to see if you have any bad
     blocks.

Subtopic:  GS Trouble shooting
================================
 Check your control panel settings: What is the startup slot set to? Is the
     slot set to "Your Card"? Check your RAM disk setting. Is it taking up all
     your memory? Try setting the speed to normal if it's a non-GS program.
 Take out or disable your INITS, CDAs, NDAs, and CDEVS. (With System 6, just
     hold down Shift while booting).
 If you have a hard disk, try booting from a System Disk and/or re-install the
     latest system software. Many random problems can be traced to corrupted
     or improperly installed system software.
 Never connect/disconnect an ADB device when the computer is on.
 AppleWorks GS comes with a memory tester (try it).
 The TransWarp GS has a continuous test on the CDA (try it too).

------------------------------

Date: 6/27/93
From: [e-mail]
Subject: SCSI


 SCSI is a protocol (kind of like serial or parallel) that lets you hook up
 several devices (up to 8) on a SCSI bus (a bus is just a series of wires).
 You must give each device it's own unique ID number from 0-7. The SCSI card
 is usually set to 7. There are two types of SCSI cables: the 50 pin
 Centronics-type (like on parallel printers) or the 25-pin "D" connector. The
 50-pin is the SCSI standard, the 25-pin is the Apple standard. On a SCSI
 chain, there must be a Terminator at each end. A Terminator is just a bunch
 of resistors. Some drives have internal terminators (3 small yellow-orange
 packs), and some drives come with an external terminator (a "plug" to put on
 the back of the drive). Also, somebody on the bus must supply terminator
 power (one of the SCSI lines). If There are any problems (multiple things
 with the same ID, too much termination or not enough, or no terminator
 power), you may be able to use the drive, but your data will get corrupted.
 Most of the time, the computer will refuse to recognize the drive.

 At first, there was the Apple Rev 'C' SCSI card (named after the final ROM
 version--all previous versions MUST be upgraded to work with current
 software). There were several clones from the likes of CMS and Chinook. Then
 Apple came out with it's High Speed DMA SCSI card. This has the ability to do
 Direct Memory Access to the RAM in your computer, which speeds things up.
 This created a lot of problems with cards that were not DMA compatible. CV
 Technologies also has a DMA SCSI card called the RamFast. This card has 256K
 or 1MB of on-board RAM to make it even faster than Apple's card. It can also
 supply terminator power if you drive does not supply it. Both of the new
 cards support things like SCSI tape backup units, removable SCSI drives, SCSI
 CD-ROM, and of course SCSI hard drives. Both the new cards also require an
 Enhanced //e.

Subtopic:  Tips on setting up a SCSI system:
================================
 You can have multiple drives on one SCSI card, just make sure you remove the
     termination on all the drives but the last one. This is because the newer
     SCSI cards are terminated (and they count as a SCSI device).
 Always check that the cords are plugged in properly. Never connect/disconnect
     anything when the computer is on.
 The computer will boot the hard drive with the highest SCSI ID, which should
     be ID 6.
 Try letting the drive 'warm up' for 15 seconds before turning the computer
     on. The SCSI cards look for drives only at startup, and may ignore any
     drives that are not ready.
 Try turning off DMA. If this helps, you may have a non-DMA compatible card,
     such as the early versions of the TransWarp, early versions of the GS
     RAM, or any 8-bit accelerator. Alternately, try setting up a RAM disk for
     all but 4 MB. Some RAM cards can only do DMA in the first bank.
 Check that each device has a unique ID. Most drives have a thumbwheel on the
     back to set the ID. Your SCSI card (yes, it counts too) is probably ID 7.
     Number your drives from 6 downwards for best compatibility. The IDs have
     nothing to do with what slot the card is in.
 Is there a terminator at each end of the SCSI bus? (the DMA cards are
     terminated, and some drives are internally terminated.)
 Try the software that came with the card. It may give helpful diagnostic
     messages (I.E. the Apple DMA SCSI utilities-- Does it say "No Apple SCSI
     card found" or "No SCSI devices found"?)
 Do you get the message "Unable to Load ProDos"? If so, it's booting your
     drive but you have no system software on it. Try hitting Control-Reset,
     then PR#5 (or PR#6) to boot a floppy. Then install the system software
     (i.e. ProDos or GS/OS).
 In extreme cases, try reformatting the drive, repartitioning, and
     re-installing the System software.
 If the drive access light blinks in a regular pattern before the computer is
     turned on, it is telling you that it has a hardware malfunction. It needs
     to be serviced.
 Did you try re-installing the System software? Many times, the data on a
     drive will get corrupted if you run the drive with improper terminators
     or conflicting SCSI ID's. Sometimes you will not notice the corrupted
     data until after you fix the problem. If re-installing the System
     software helps, it was probably a software problem, not a hardware
     problem.
 The Apple HS DMA SCSI card requires an Enhanced //e. It will not work on the
     older //e without an Enhancement Kit.
 To really put a drive through it's paces, copy a LOT of stuff from one
     partition to another (copy the entire partition if you can). If there is
     a problem with DMA or SCSI ID's, it will probably show up as a strange
     GS/OS error. (GS only)
 Make sure you do not have the Apple SCSI drivers installed if you have a
     RamFast. It may cause random problems (they leave an interrupt handler
     dangling if they can't find their card.) (GS only)
 Make sure you are booting the right slot. If the card is in slot 7, you can
     set the startup slot to Scan or 7. (GS only)
 If you boot up and only 1 partition shows up, you need to install the SCSI
     drivers. (GS only)
 If you boot up and it says "Drive XXX is already on the desktop" over and
     over: Probably a SCSI ID problem. (GS only)
 If you add a CD-ROM, drivers are avaliable from Trantor Systems LTD, 5415
     Randall Place, Fremont, CA 94538 [phone] (GS only)
 At least one device must supply terminator power to the bus (Pin 26). The
     Apple Cards do not supply this, and some drives don't either. Result: The
     drive won't be seen by any software.
 Some CMS Platinum drives had pin 40 disconnected for obscure Mac
     compatibility reasons. This can cause problems with the Apple IIs.
 Make sure you use the drivers from GS/OS, and not the ones that ship with the
     Apple HS SCSI card. (Doesn't apply to RamFast).
 To low-level format an AE Vulcan drive, go into PART.MANAGER, move the
     hilight to "format" and type "AE". Then say yes to all the prompts.

======================================================================
This FAQ is available on-line at apple2.archive.umich.edu (see FTP)
Permission granted to reproduce in non-profit User Group newsletters.

Any additions/corrections/suggestions would be appreciated.  Also,
if this FAQ has helped you, e-mail me and let me know!
                                        Dan DeMaggio ([e-mail])
    --
[e-mail] | When laws are outlawed,      | Ono-Sendai: the best
Dangerous  Dan | only outlaws will have laws. | Sim Stim decks
--
[e-mail] | When laws are outlawed,      | Ono-Sendai: the best
Dangerous  Dan | only outlaws will have laws. | Sim Stim decks