Media Share 9/MEDIASHARE_09.ISO/comm/zipfs162.zip/ZIP.DOC

Text File | 1993-03-09 | 48KB | 938 lines

                                   ZIP.DOC
                                   -------
              Instructions for ZIP - Fast File Transfer Utility
                          version 1.62 (08 Mar 1993)

                             (c)1988-93 E. Meyer


        Requires:  two IBM PC compatible computers with DOS 2.x or above;
                   appropriate (serial null modem) RS232C cable.


================================== CONTENTS ==================================

     1. ABOUT ZIP: Brief description; Copyright and Licensing

     2. PREPARING TO USE ZIP
          A. Setting the serial port and speed
          B. Menu vs Command-line mode

     3. TRANSFERRING FILES
          A. Sending files
          B. Receiving files
          C. Selecting files from a group
          D. Backups and overwriting files
          E. Directory, Delete, and Log commands

     4. SERVER MODE
          A. Sending and fetching files
          B. Server Directory, Delete, and Log commands
          C. Comparing directory contents

     5. FURTHER USAGE NOTES
          A. Examples of command-line syntax
          B. Automating use of ZIP (@files, Redirection, Batch files)

     6. UTILITY PROGRAMS
          A. Cloning ZIP with ZIPDUP
          B. Changing defaults with ZIPCFG

     7. TECHNICAL INFORMATION
          A. General information
          B. Using ZIP on the HP95LX palmtop
          C. Appropriate serial cables
          D. Error messages
          E. Version history and notes
          F. About the program and author


================================ 1. ABOUT ZIP ================================


     Anyone with two computers probably needs to transfer programs or data
between them regularly... yet if large amounts of data are involved,
exchanging floppy disks quickly grows tedious; and if the disk drives are
incompatible, or a portable computer has none, it won't work at all.  Keeping
track of new or modified files on each computer gets to be a problem, too.

     ZIP is a tiny, fast utility to transfer files between two IBM compatible
computers; it requires no expensive additional hardware, just a simple serial
cable.  It can be used from the DOS command line or a batch file, or run from
an interactive menu.  It transfers files as simply as using the COPY command,
and has options that make it easy to reconcile directories on both computers.
Ideal for laptop or palmtop computers, it takes just 12k of disk space, and
occupies no memory when not in use.

     There are good retail programs for this purpose, though they typically
cost over $100; if you're willing to buy or make your own cable, you can do
the same job with ZIP instead.  ZIP doesn't have all the features of the fancy
programs, but it doesn't consume precious system memory either; it just
transfers files when you need to, as simply as using the COPY command.  In
fact, even if you have other more complex programs, you may still find ZIP
easier to use much of the time because of its small size and simplicity.

     ZIP is as fast as a serial (RS232) transfer program can be, and faster
than some free/shareware programs that also claim to operate "at 115200 bps".
ZIP can transfer data 6 times faster than an ordinary telecom program over a
serial cable... 48 times faster than typical modem transfer rates.
            Telecom programs: modem       2400 bps            0.3 K/sec
                              cable      19200 bps            2.3 K/sec
                         ZIP: cable     115200 bps     up to 14.1 K/sec!
On older PCs and slower portables, ZIP will come as close to this throughput
as your computers allow.  (Between an 8MHz XT and 4.77MHz laptop, it reaches
about 10K/sec.)  Of course, disk access also takes time; with any system,
large amounts of data can be sent more quickly using RAMdisks or hard disks,
rather than slow floppy disk drives.  Although ZIP is designed to operate at
very high transmission speeds, it can also be used at slower speeds in
applications that demand this.
     (Note: ZIP does not employ data compression, and has nothing to do with
the new file compression program PKZIP by Phil Katz.)


                         HOW YOU GOT YOUR COPY OF ZIP

     ZIP circulates widely as "shareware", giving you the opportunity to try
the program at no cost, and to share it with others -- hence the name.  If it
doesn't meet your needs, you don't have to pay for it.  If you find the
program valuable and continue to use it, you pay for it by "registering" your
copy.  In return, you get an update disk and support from the author.

     Shareware offers some unique advantages over retail software, because
users interact directly with the author.  Obviously, costs are kept down
because glossy packaging, advertising, and retail markups are eliminated.  But
shareware can also resist market trends and continue to provide useful kinds
of products that the big corporations have abandoned.  And shareware authors
can respond more directly to user requests and concerns than software
publishers that release an update only when it seems profitable.

     Shareware works when users give program authors useful feedback, and most
of all, when users support authors by registering their programs.  This makes
it possible for quality shareware to continue to develop and improve.  ZIP
would not have become what it is now without this kind of support.  Please
support shareware by registering any programs that you use.

     The use and distribution of ZIP are governed by the "COPYRIGHT AND
LICENSE" information below.  Please read this carefully!


                            FILES YOU SHOULD HAVE

     Be sure you have all the files which should be included in this package:

              ZIP.DOC      - This documentation file.
              ZIP.COM      - The file transfer program.
              ZIPCFG.COM   - The configuration (customizing) utility.
              ZIPDUP.COM   - The duplication (cloning) utility.
              ORDER.FRM    - Registration/site license order form.



                      COPYRIGHT AND LICENSE INFORMATION

         The ZIP program and documentation are copyright (c)1988-93
         Eric Meyer, all rights reserved worldwide.  They may not be
         circulated in any incomplete or modified form, nor sold for
         profit, without written permission of the author.  The use
         or sale of ZIP is subject to the following terms:


PERSONAL USE.  If you find ZIP valuable and continue to use it, you are
    encouraged (but not required) to register, and help support the
    development of high-quality, affordable software:
                   INDIVIDUAL REGISTRATION .....  $30 (US)
    Registered users receive several benefits:
            * A copy of the latest version of ZIP (and other useful
         programs) on disk direct from the author.
            * Support.  You can get help with any questions or
         problems you encounter in using ZIP.  Future upgrades can
         be ordered on disk when desired.
            * Your registration verifies the legality of your
         personal use of ZIP at your workplace as well.


SITE LICENSES.  Any company or institution wishing to use ZIP in the course of
    its business MUST purchase a SITE LICENSE.  The cost of the license is
    quite modest, and varies according to the number of computers on which ZIP
    may be in use in the workplace:
                         COPIES        COST
                       Up to 20  .....  $50 (US)
                             50  ..... $100
                            100  ..... $150
                   200 and over  ..... $1 per copy
    The purchaser of a site license receives several benefits:
            * A copy of the latest version of ZIP (and other useful
         programs) on disk direct from the author.
            * Support.  You can get help with any questions or
         problems you encounter in using ZIP.  Future upgrades can
         be ordered on disk when desired.
            * A license documenting the legality of your company's
         use of ZIP.
            * Your employees can use ZIP at home and share it with
         friends without raising issues of software piracy.


COMMERCIAL SALE.  Any software dealer or library may offer ZIP for sale, as
    long as the price charged for the disk containing ZIP does not exceed US
    $6.  With this single exception, the sale of ZIP, either alone or together
    with other software or hardware, requires a licensing agreement.  Please
    write for terms.


ORDERING AND SOURCES.  Site licenses and individual registrations may be
    ordered directly from the author (see address below), by check or money
    order in US currency; purchase orders are also accepted.
         CREDIT CARD ORDERS ONLY (VISA,MC,AmEx,Discover), including
    international, for licenses and registrations may be made through the
    Public Software Library: phone [phone] or [phone], FAX
    [phone], CompuServe [71355,470].  Mention item #10304.  (There is a
    $5 surcharge for this service.)
         ZIP is distributed widely through "shareware" channels.  Users with a
    modem can download the latest version as the archive file ZIPxxx.ZIP,
    available from the primary distribution point: on CompuServe, in download
    library 4 (DL4) of the IBMCOM forum.
         In addition, ZIP is available on a variety of other remote systems,
    and by mail from many good software libraries, including the Public
    Software Library, P.O. Box 35705, Houston TX 77235.  (Disk #1674)


FOREIGN USERS.  ZIP has a growing number of users elsewhere in the Americas,
    Europe, and the Far East.  In many countries, retail software is scarce or
    expensive, and shareware is an even more attractive alternative.
    Registrations from overseas are warmly encouraged, and users receive full
    support, including disks by airmail, at no extra charge.  Payment can be
    made by international credit card through Public Software Library; or you
    can send money orders in US currency, drawn on a US affiliate bank,
    directly to the author.  Modest amounts of US cash ($50 or less) can also
    be sent safely by registered mail.

                  Address all correspondence to the author:

            Eric Meyer
         3541 Smuggler Way            CompuServe: [74415,1305]
    Boulder, Colorado  80303  USA       Internet: [e-mail]


              THE CUSTOMARY DISCLAIMER:  You undertake to use ZIP at
         your own risk.  The author does not warrant the suitability
         of ZIP for any particular purpose, and assumes no liability
         for damages of any kind resulting from its use.


========================== 2. PREPARING TO USE ZIP ===========================


     Before you can use ZIP, you will need to have a copy of the same version
of ZIP.COM on both computers, and the correct cable connection between them.
If incompatible disk formats prevent you from getting ZIP.COM itself onto the
second computer to begin with, you can "clone" ZIP with the ZIPDUP utility
(see below).  For more on null modem cables, or if you have an HP95LX palmtop,
see the TECHNICAL INFORMATION section below.


                     A. SETTING THE SERIAL PORT AND SPEED

     IBM-compatible computers have anywhere from one to four serial (RS232)
ports, and on each computer you must tell ZIP which port you have connected
its cable to.  By default ZIP uses the COM1 port.  The standard port addresses
are:                  COM1: 03F8h         COM3: 03E8h
                      COM2: 02F8h         COM4: 02E8h
Some computers (including PS/2s) use different addresses for COM3 and COM4;
nonstandard port addresses can be specified in hexadecimal, but only by
modifying ZIP.COM with the ZIPCFG utility.
     You can select any standard COM port during operation of ZIP:  in menu
mode, just select the choice to modify "P"arameters.  In command-line mode,
specify one of the following options:

              /1-4  = use port COM1-4.

     Data transmission can take place at a wide range of speeds.  ZIP normally
works at the fastest possible speed, 115200 bps, and most users will not need
to change this.  To accommodate certain computers or software environments, it
may be necessary to set a somewhat slower speed.  In fact, ZIP can be slowed
down all the way to 2400 bps, so that it might even operate over a good modem
connection.  In any event, you must have the same rate set on both ends.
     In menu mode, just select the choice to modify "P"arameters.  In command
line mode, specify the option:

              /Bnnnn  = use speed nnnn (BPS)

The allowed speeds "nnnn" are 115200, 57600, 38400, 19200, 9600, 4800, 2400;
each may be abbreviated to as few as two digits ("/B96").  To change your
default setting, use ZIPCFG.
     You will see a note in the ZIP signon message, "Speed=____ Port=____",
giving the port address and speed currently in use.


------------------------ B. MENU vs COMMAND-LINE MODE ------------------------

     Once your cable is connected and you have chosen the correct ports and
speed, you can use ZIP in one of two ways, both of which are described more
fully below:

              1.  MENU-DRIVEN OPERATION.  Simply type "ZIP" on both
         machines.  You will see a menu of choices including
         sending, receiving, or fetching files; listing or comparing
         directories; logging a new directory; deleting files;
         entering server mode; unlinking the server; changing
         parameters; or getting help with options.  Just type the
         highlighted letter of your selection.

              2.  COMMAND-LINE OPERATION.  Any single operation can
         be performed from the DOS command line, by providing the
         correct arguments and options.  For a brief help message,
         including additional options, type "ZIP /?".

     If there is a problem with your cable or port/speed settings, the message
"Ready" will remain on screen; abort and try again.

     ZIP's operation can be interrupted by pressing Escape, ^C, or Ctrl-Break:
          (1) during initial connection attempt (otherwise, ZIP waits
                as long as necessary for connection)
          (2) during file transfer (on receiving end, your keypress
                will not be noticed until the current file is finished)
          (3) at any user prompts.


=========================== 3. TRANSFERRING FILES ============================

                               A. SENDING FILES

     Transferring files between computers with ZIP is as easy as copying them
from one disk to another.  In menu mode, simply select "S"end, and you will be
prompted for the filename(s) and then a directory to send them to.  (For the
current default directory on the other end, just press ENTER.)  For command-
line use, give the filename(s) to send as part of the ZIP command, and if you
want to specify a destination directory, add it as an option in brackets:

              C>zip FILENAME /[DESTDIR]

     In either mode, the "FILENAME" can be a single FILE (including path), or
a GROUP specified by wildcards (eg, *.BAK), or an "@FILE" (see AUTOMATING), or a
LIST of any of these delimited by commas or spaces.  Each item assumes or
continues the same path as the previous one, unless the new one begins with a
drive or root directory.  Thus the list:
              d:\sf\gort, ltrs\*.892, klaatu
refers to files D:\SF\GORT, D:\SF\LTRS\*.892, and D:\SF\LTRS\KLAATU.

     Any other desired options may also follow the filename(s), though only
the selection options /P,N,E,T are valid in menu mode.  Take care not to send
two files with the same name to the same receiving directory, as one would
overwrite the other.  ZIP will not send DOS Hidden or System files.
     By the name of each file to be transferred you will see a bar composed of
one "=" sign for each 64k of file size; each will turn into a blinking
asterisk "*", then disappear as the transfer progresses, the last one leaving
a period "." when finished.


----------------------------- B. RECEIVING FILES -----------------------------

     In menu mode, simply select "R"eceive, and you will be prompted for the
directory to receive files into.  For command-line use, specify the option:

              /R  = RECEIVE files

and, if you want, a directory to receive files into, in brackets:

              C>zip /r[DESTDIR]

     Do not supply a filespec before the /R option; the sender determines the
files to be sent.  By default, files are received into the current directory.
Any destination directory specified by the sender overrides the receiver's
directory.  Of the selection options, only /P may be used when receiving.
     A received file bears the same filename and DOS timestamp as the file
sent, but any DOS attributes it may have had (Read/Only, Archive, etc) are not
similarly preserved.


---------------------- C. SELECTING FILES FROM A GROUP -----------------------

     If you want to transfer only certain files in a group with ZIP, you can
request that you be prompted to confirm each file individually: you will be
asked to hit a key (Y/N) to determine whether each file is to be sent.  (In
menu mode, you can select "O"ptions for a help message describing the
selective copy operations.)  After the file (or for receiving, directory)
names, in either menu or command-line mode, specify the option:

              /P  = PROMPT to confirm files individually

If option /P is in use on the receiving end and "No" is entered, the message
"<Declined>" will appear on the sending end.
     This option can be specified independently on either or both ends, but
has no effect in server mode.


---------------------- D. BACKUPS AND OVERWRITING FILES ----------------------

     ZIP offers several features that are particulary useful for reconciling
the contents of directories which are duplicated (in whole or part) on both
computers.  By default, ZIP doesn't care what files may already exist on the
receiving end: it will transfer all files specified, whether or not they
overwrite existing ones.  Three options are provided to modify this behavior.
(In menu mode, you can select "O"ptions for a help message describing the
selective copy operations.)  After the names of files to be transferred, in
menu or command-line mode, specify one (or two) of these options:

              /N  = copy NONexisting files only
                       (cannot be used with /E or /T)
              /E  = copy EXISTING files only
              /T  = TIMESTAMP determines files sent

     The /N option will prevent all existing files from being overwritten.
The /T option will allow overwrites only when the new copy has a more recent
timestamp.  The /ET combination is especially useful for selective backup
purposes: it transfers only more recent copies of files that already exist.
     Example: if you want to make the contents of two nearly identical
directories exactly so, do one transfer "*.* /T" each way; or use "*.* /N"
instead if you want differing versions of individual files to remain so.
     These options can be specified only on the sending (or active) end.


------------------- E. DIRECTORY, DELETE, AND LOG COMMANDS -------------------

     When ZIP is in menu mode, you will see choices for "D"irectory and
d"E"lete, offering simple file maintenance without exiting ZIP.COM.
     The directory function provides an alphabetized file listing for your
reference, and shows the free space left on the disk (unless this is greater
than 64 MB).  You will be prompted for the files to list.  If you just hit
RETURN, ZIP lists all files (*.*) in the default directory.
     The delete function prompts for a filespec to delete; as always, a path
and/or wildcards may be included.  It accepts only a single filespec, not a
list of them.  Deletion is immediate; BE CAREFUL, especially when using
wildcards.
     ZIP will not list or delete DOS Hidden or System files.

     Although you can always type the full path information for any files you
want to look for or transfer, if you're going to be working in a different
directory for a while, it can be more convenient to change ZIP's default
directory.  In menu mode, the "L"og command will let you do this; you will be
prompted for the new drive and/or directory, or you can just hit RETURN to
check the current directory.  Initially, of course, the default is the current
DOS directory.  (The Log command works much like the DOS command CHDIR, except
that ZIP does not actually change the current DOS directory, it simply keeps
its own record of the directory you want to be working in.)


=============================== 4. SERVER MODE ===============================


     It would obviously be easier to transfer files if you could do all the
typing from one keyboard, and "server mode" lets you do just that.  ZIP can
remain on line on one end, ready to obey instructions from the other end
automatically.  To enter server mode: in menu mode, just select the choice for
ser"V"er.  In command line mode, specify the option:

              /S  = SERVER mode

and if you want, a new default directory for ZIP operations in brackets:

              C>zip /S[DFLTDIR]

Otherwise, the default is the current DOS directory.

     ZIP will now wait to receive commands (described below) from the other
computer.  When you are finished, you can press Escape, ^C, or Ctrl-Break to
exit server mode.

     Alternatively, you can give an instruction to terminate server mode from
the other ("active") keyboard.  In menu mode, select the choice for "U"nlink
before quitting.  In command-line mode, specify the option:

              /U  = UNLINK server (after current exchange is complete)

Any request that you make for communication with the server will wait,
displaying the message "Ready", until ZIP is detected running in server mode
on your other computer.


----------------------- A. SENDING AND FETCHING FILES ------------------------

     When one copy of ZIP is running in server mode, it is ready to accept any
files that you transfer to it from the other (active) keyboard; these will be
received on the server end, into any directory specified by the sender, or by
default into the server's current directory.

     You can also ask the server to send files to you.  In menu mode, just
select "F"etch, and you will be prompted for the files to fetch and a
directory to put them in.  In command-line mode, specify the option:

              /F  = FETCH specified files from server

and, if you want, a directory to put the received files in:

              C>zip FILENAME /F[DESTDIR]

Otherwise they will be put in the current directory.

     You must specify the path with the filenames to be fetched, if they are
not to be found in the default directory on the server end.  Any of the
selection options (/P,N,E,T) may be used.


--------------- B. SERVER DIRECTORY, DELETE, AND LOG COMMANDS ----------------

     If your other computer is running ZIP in server mode, you can also
request a directory from it, delete files on it, or log a new directory on it.
In menu mode, when using the "D"irectory, d"E"lete, or "L"og commands, simply
type a ">" before an argument to indicate that it applies to the server.  This
can be done either alone, or together with a request on the active end:

              Directory: \WORK\*.BAK                active alone
              Delete:    >B:\BACKUP\OLD.FIL         server alone
              Log:       \WORK\*.BAK >B:\BACKUP     combined

As a convenience, since the two computers may have a similar directory
structure, you can also type a quote mark (") to log the same default
directory for the server.

              Log: >"                ...logs same dir on the server as here
              Log: C:\WORK >"        ...logs C:\WORK on the server, too
              Log: C:\WORK >D:"      ...logs D:\WORK on the server

     For command-line use, you can specify one of the options:

              /D[FILESPEC]  = Directory listing on server
              /K[FILESPEC]  = Kill (delete) file on server
              /L[NEWDIR]    - Log new directory on server

/D alone lists all files "*.*", or it can be followed by a filespec in
brackets, like "/D[\*.BAT]".  /K requires a filespec in brackets.

     Directory and deletion requests accept only a single filespec, not a list
of them.  Deletion is immediate; be careful.


---------------------- C. COMPARING DIRECTORY CONTENTS -----------------------

     If your other computer is running ZIP in server mode, you can also
compare the contents of directories, showing files that appear in one but not
the other, or that exist in different versions.  (This can be used, for
example, as a preview of what files will be transferred if you use the /N or
/T option.)  Common identical files are not shown.
     In menu mode, just select the choice to "C"ompare.  You will be prompted
for the files to compare.  If you just hit RETURN, ZIP compares all files
"*.*" in the default directory on each end.  Type a ">" if you want to specify
a different directory on the server:

          Compare: >\BACKUP           active *.* with server \BACKUP\*.*
          Compare: *.DOC              active *.DOC with server *.DOC
          Compare: *.DOC >\BACKUP     active *.DOC with server \BACKUP\*.DOC

     ZIP will produce two listings: first files on the active end that don't
match up with those on the server, and then vice versa.  If a file appears on
both ends, but in differing versions, it will be flagged with a "+" or "-" to
indicate which appears to be the later (+) or earlier (-) version, according
to the files' timestamps.

     Alternatively, from the command line, you can specify the option:

              /C  = Compare with server

All files "*.*" are compared, unless you provide a filespec.  The option can
be followed by a directory in brackets:

              C>zip FILENAME /C[SRVRDIR]

otherwise, the default directory on the server is assumed.


========================== 5. FURTHER USAGE NOTES ============================

                      A. EXAMPLES OF COMMAND-LINE SYNTAX

    SENDING FILES:

 C>zip b:myfile *.doc              send files B:MYFILE, B:*.DOC

 C>zip *.bak /[b:\recs]            send files *.BAK to directory B:\RECS

 C>zip my.* /2 /p                  send files C:MY.* over COM2, with prompts
                                 to confirm each file individually

 C>zip *.* /n                      send all files which don't already exist
                                 in receiver's default directory

 C>zip a:chapter.* /et             send all files A:CHAPTER.* of which an
                                 older version exists on the receiving end
    RECEIVING FILES:

 C>zip /r /3                       receive files over COM3

 C>zip /rp[\temp]                  receive, with default directory C:\TEMP,
                                 prompting to confirm each file individually
    ENTERING SERVER MODE:

 C>zip /s2b38                      wait as server, at 38400 bps on COM2

 C>zip /s[d:\]                     wait as server, with default directory D:\

    EXCHANGING FILES WITH SERVER:

 C>zip b:\recs\my.* /f[\orig]      fetch files MY.* from directory B:\RECS
                                 on server into directory C:\ORIG here

 C>zip my.fil,my.bak /u            send MY.FIL and MY.BAK to server's default
                                 directory, then unlink server

    FILE MANAGEMENT WITH SERVER:

 C>zip /d[\work\*.bak]             show all server's files \WORK\*.BAK

 C>zip /k[junk]                    delete server's file JUNK

 C>zip *.txt /c[\mydir]            compare *.TXT with server's \MYDIR\*.TXT

 C>zip /l[a:\]                     log directory A:\ on server


------------------------- B. AUTOMATING USE OF ZIP ---------------------------

     There are several ways of performing complex repetitive tasks, like
backing up several groups of files, more easily with ZIP, by taking advantage
of its own features (indirect filename lists in "@files") or those provided by
MSDOS (batch files, input redirection).


                         Indirect File Lists (@files)

     A number of file management and communications utilities can write a list
of filenames selected according to various criteria to a file, or accept the
name of such a file following an "@" sign to process all the filenames it
contains; ZIP also honors this convention.  You can also create such a file
yourself, with any text editor, inserting the names of files which you may
often want to transfer as a group.  Such an "@FILE" should contain complete
filespecs (with drive and path), separated by spaces and/or carriage returns.
ZIP can then be used to transfer those files.
     For example, if file "FLIST" contains the names:     c:\work\*.bak
                                                          c:\myfile

then "ZIP @FLIST" will send files C:\WORK\*.BAK and C:\MYFILE.
     Options can only be specified on the command line after the @file name
(not within the @file), and will affect all files transferred.


                               Redirected Input

     Because ZIP accepts standard DOS input redirection ("<"), you can
automate a frequently performed series of tasks (sending groups of files to
different directories, etc) by running ZIP in menu mode with redirected input.

     You might, for example, need to back up the entire contents of a sizable
disk, including several levels of directories.  ZIP is not specifically
designed to do this: it does not create directories while copying, nor does it
look for files within subdirectories.  However, it is easy enough to put the
receiver in Server mode, then run ZIP with a redirected input file containing
transfer commands for each desired directory (once corresponding directories
exist on both ends).

     Redirected input is a sort of "script" describing a complex task.  You
will need to create a text file containing exactly the keystrokes you would
use to perform a task; think about the way ZIP prompts for input, and work out
your responses carefully.  (Note, for example, that when you select an option
like "S"end you don't hit [Enter] afterward, but when you provide a filename
you do.)
     For example, if the file "ZINPUT" contains:     Sc:\work\*.* /t
                                                     e:\work
                                                     Sc:\work\ed\*.* /t
                                                     e:\work\ed
                                                     Q

then "ZIP <ZINPUT" would back up (with the "/T" option) all files in C:\WORK
to directory E:\WORK on the receiving end, and similarly for the directory
C:\WORK\ED, then quit ("Q").
     Any command-line options must precede the "<" redirection character.  Use
of the /P option is not advisable while using redirected input, since the
correct number of "Y/N" responses would have to be in the input file.  You
should always end the file with "Q" to quit, since DOS does not return to the
keyboard for further input if the end of the redirected file is reached.


                                 Batch Files

     Since every feature can be accessed from the command line, ZIP is easy to
use in batch (.BAT) files.  Batch files run a little more slowly than the
other methods above, but they can contain replaceable arguments, tests for the
existence of files or directories, prompts and jumps for the user to choose
different courses of action, and other powerful features.  See your MSDOS
manual for details.

     If an error occurs during operation in command-line mode, ZIP sets the
DOS error code, so that a batch file can test the ERRORLEVEL to determine
subsequent action.  Normally 0, the value returned will indicate which of the
following errors occurred:
     1 = argument error                   8 = transmission error
     2 = out of memory/too many files    16 = disk error (full?)
     4 = connect error/no server        128 = user abort



============================ 6. UTILITY PROGRAMS =============================

                          A. CLONING ZIP WITH ZIPDUP

     ZIP comes with a utility program, ZIPDUP, to make it easier to get a copy
of ZIP.COM onto another computer.  If you can't exchange disks between your
computers, ZIPDUP gives you a way to duplicate or "clone" ZIP onto the second
computer over the serial cable.  This is a feature most people need only once,
so it is not part of ZIP itself.  ZIPDUP will duplicate any version of ZIP
(indeed, it will duplicate any file, though it's slow and cumbersome compared
to ZIP itself).  To clone ZIP with ZIPDUP:

     1.  Connect the cable to the desired serial port on each computer.  You
must use COM1 or COM2 only; and the cable must have the DTR lines connected,
as well as the data lines -- see cabling diagram under TECHNICAL INFORMATION
below -- or ZIPDUP will not work.  (In this event, you'll need to have a
telecom program running on both computers, to transfer ZIP.COM via some
protocol like XMODEM.)

     2.  Set up the receiving end:  Make sure the MSDOS utilities DEBUG and
MODE are available (either in the current directory or in your PATH); you will
have to use MODE, and ZIPDUP uses DEBUG.
     Be certain that the last character of your DOS prompt is ">".  (Yes, this
actually matters!)  If in doubt, type the command:
              PROMPT $P$G
     Then prepare to receive data by typing these two commands:
              MODE COM#:96,N,8,1     ("#" = 1 or 2 only)
              CTTY COM#
The CTTY command gives control to the sending computer, via the COM# port.
The receiving system will seem to "lock up", ignoring any keyboard input.

     3.  Now, on the sending end, to duplicate your copy of ZIP.COM, type:
              ZIPDUP ZIP.COM
(Actually, you can omit the filename if it is "ZIP.COM"; otherwise, type it.)
     You will be asked to specify the COM port (again, 1 or 2 only) that the
cable is connected to; if the connection can be made, the transfer will
proceed.  When ZIPDUP is finished, you will find a duplicate copy of ZIP.COM
in the current directory on the receiving computer.  You can transfer other
files the same way, but it's easier and faster now to use ZIP itself!


---------------------- B. CHANGING DEFAULTS WITH ZIPCFG ----------------------

     A second utility, ZIPCFG, allows you to tailor ZIP to your requirements.
Normally, unless you've instructed it otherwise (via command-line options or
menu choices), ZIP assumes its built-in "defaults" of 115200 bps, port COM1.
You can, however, configure your copy of ZIP.COM to change these defaults as
you like; just type:
              ZIPCFG ZIP.COM
(Actually, you can omit the filename if it is "ZIP.COM"; otherwise, type it.)

     To change your defaults, select "Edit" from the ZIPCFG menu, make
changes, then select "Save"; to restore the original settings, select
"Restore".  To exit without saving changes, select "Quit".

     The "Edit" procedure takes you through a sequence of settings you can
change.  For the port you may enter simply "COM1" through "COM4", or any other
specific hexadecimal address required by your hardware ("03F0", etc).  For the
speed you must choose by letter from the allowed values.

     There is also a setting to force 40-column display width.  Normally this
is set to "No"; you will see "Width=AUTO", and ZIP adapts itself to the
current video mode (40/80 columns).

     Finally, ZIPCFG offers you a choice of color output (via the IBMPC BIOS)
or standard DOS output.  You might want to select DOS output if color output
does not display correctly on your video system, or if you will want to
redirect output from ZIP to a file or device (color output does not redirect).
     If you select color, ZIPCFG displays a palette and offers you a choice of
text colors.  ZIP uses three different colors: a "message" color, a "hilight"
color for contrast, and an "active" color (during file transfer activity).
Each is specified by an "attribute byte" consisting of two hex digits, for a
background and foreground color.  ("17" = "1", blue background, & "7", white
text.)  The color digits are:
         0 = BLACK   4 = red       8 = GREY           C = bright red
         1 = blue    5 = magenta   9 = bright blue    D = bright magenta
         2 = green   6 = brown     A = bright green   E = yellow
         3 = cyan    7 = WHITE     B = bright cyan    F = BRIGHT WHITE
     The palette will include 128 colors from 00-7F.  Use of colors 8-F as
background (80-FF) is also possible but not recommended, since on most systems
this produces blinking video.  Some colors may be invisible or indistinguish-
able on monochrome screens, though all MDA systems can display black, white
and bright white (which are the default colors), and in some cases grey also.

     Please DO NOT distribute modified copies of ZIP.COM; this could confuse
other users.  They are for your personal use only.  (ZIPCFG includes an option
to restore the original default values.)


========================== 7. TECHNICAL INFORMATION ==========================

                            A. GENERAL INFORMATION

     ZIP requires about 128k of free memory to run.  Like most communications
programs, ZIP does full CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Checksum) verification on the
data to guarantee accurate transfer.  But ZIP uses its own transfer protocol,
which is not compatible with other programs.  Be sure to use the same version
of ZIP on both ends: the transfer protocol may have changed.  Do not disturb
the cable when ZIP is running, as it will be unable to resume its task; you
will have to abort the program and try again.

     ZIP does not use interrupts, so it will not conflict with the IRQ usage
of other hardware or software; but do not use ZIP while the specific serial
port chosen is being used by another program.

     Using any communications software in a multitasking environment often
requires special precautions.  ZIP is DESQview-aware, and will disable any
multitasking while transferring files.  Under other environments, ZIP may need
to be given a "non-swappable" or "foreground-operation" status, so that other
tasks will not interfere with its operation.  (Under Windows, you must create
a PIF file and give ZIP both background and foreground priority.)  You may
also need to set a slower speed for ZIP to work reliably.

     ZIP works well on the vast majority of systems.  If you experience
unresolvable conflicts with other memory-resident software, such as background
processes or disk caches, do not use ZIP when that software is in operation.


--------------------- B. USING ZIP ON THE HP95LX PALMTOP ---------------------

     The Hewlett-Packard 95LX palmtop computer is "nearly" IBM-compatible; ZIP
will work on it, but there are some special considerations.
     The HP95LX serial port does not support DTR, so ZIPDUP will not work on
it; instead, to transfer ZIP.COM to the 95LX, you must use the 95LX's internal
software.  You can purchase the HP Connectivity Pack, which includes a cable,
or you can buy the serial cable (#HP82222A) separately and use the 95LX COMM
utility together with any PC communication program to transfer ZIP.COM via
KERMIT or XMODEM protocol at 19200 bps.
     ZIP automatically detects the 95LX and sets itself for the COM1 port and
40 column screen.  Thus you can use the same copy of ZIP.COM on your 95LX as
on your PC; modification with ZIPCFG is not needed.
     ZIP can be run either from the Filer (highlight and press F4, Run) or
from the DOS system prompt.  ZIP automatically powers up the serial port in
WIRE mode, and turns it off again upon exit to conserve batteries, so use of
the SERCTL command is not necessary.


------------------------ C. APPROPRIATE SERIAL CABLES ------------------------

     SERIAL NULL MODEM CABLES, in various combinations of 9- and 25-pin
connectors, are available from a wide variety of sources, and a simple cable
in the configuration you need (for example, DB9 to DB25 female) should cost
less than $10 at Radio Shack or many computer stores.  Double-headed null
modem cables (both 9 and 25 pin on each end) are also made, and would be ideal
for use with ZIP; I am told that a good source for these is:
     DALCO, 233 Pioneer Blvd, Springboro OH 45066; [phone]

     If you're building or shopping for a cable, you need a "null modem"
cable, meaning the transmit and receive data lines should be crossed, and the
signal ground connected straight through.  (The pin numbers depend on whether
you have a small DB9 or large DB25 connector, see figure.)  No other
connections should be needed; ZIP uses no hardware handshaking lines.  (NOTE:
ZIPDUP does require the DTR connections between pins 20/4 and 6.)

        |--COMPUTER 1--|         |--COMPUTER 2--|
         DB9  or   DB25           DB25  or   DB9
      pin 2 - - - - 3 - - - - - - - 2 - - - - 3   \ transmit &
          3 - - - - 2 - - - - - - - 3 - - - - 2   / receive data
          5 - - - - 7 - - - - - - - 7 - - - - 5   - signal ground

      pin 4 - - - - 20  - - - - - - 6 - - - - 6 * \
          6 - - - - 6 - - - - - - - 20  - - - 4 *  \handshaking (optional)
          7 - - - - 4 - - - - - - - 5 - - - - 8    /(* required for ZIPDUP)
          8 - - - - 5 - - - - - - - 4 - - - - 7   /

Actually, any serial cable that doesn't work by itself, should work with a
"null modem adapter" attached.  If available, use a well shielded cable; high
speed transmissions can be especially susceptible to RF interference.


----------------------------- D. ERROR MESSAGES ------------------------------

     <Argument error>  invalid command-line argument(s).
<Insufficient memory>  ZIP requires about 128k free RAM.
      <Connect error>  can't connect -- bad cable? wrong version?
          <No server>  function requires server mode on other computer.
     <Too many files>  global filespec (eg *.*) includes over 1024 files.
      <Bad directory>  specified drive or directory doesn't exist.
<Error reading @file>  @file nested or too large to read.
 <Conflict with NAME>  name conflicts with a directory or read/only file.
       <Delete error>  specified file doesn't exist, is read/only, etc.
         <Disk error>  trouble reading or writing to disk.  (Disk full?)
            <Aborted>  you pressed Esc/^C/Ctrl-Break.
              <Error>  communication error.


------------------------ E. VERSION HISTORY AND NOTES ------------------------


Users of earlier versions should note the following changes in operation:

     NEW IN ZIP 1.62:  The /P option can now be specified on the receiving end
independently.  See also expanded instructions under "AUTOMATING USE OF ZIP".

     NEW IN ZIP 1.61:  The handling of directories to put files into has been
made simpler and more consistent:
     (1)  You can always specify a destination directory when sending files;
this no longer requires the receiver to be in server mode.
     (2)  When sending or fetching files, ZIP now prompts for a destination
only in menu mode.  Thus, in command line operation, if you want to specify a
destination, you must use the "[directory]" option; conversely, there is no
longer a need to specify a null option "[]" in a batch file to avoid the
prompt when the default directory is intended.

     NEW IN ZIP 1.6:  The server's default directory, which was formerly set
only with the command option /S[dir], and affected only receipt of files by
the server, can now also be changed from either end with the Log command, and
it affects all the server's operations: directory listings, file deletion, and
fetching files from the server as well.
     Also, the delete command, which formerly worked only on a single
filename, now accepts wildcards ("?" and "*") to delete a group of files at
once.  Always use caution when deleting files.


ZIP 1.0  (Apr88) - initial release.
    1.1  (Apr88) - improved protocol; wildcard transfers; receive directory
                  option; original file time/date preserved.
    1.2  (May88) - improved error handling; can use COM3,4; minor fixes.
    1.21 (May88) - slower speed options; fixed bug in initializing ports.
    1.22 (Aug88) - improved protocol; fixed bug in deleting temp file.
    1.23 (Jan89) - menu-driven operation; detects disk-full errors.
    1.3  (Apr89) - selective copy options /P,N,E,T; server mode, fetch;
                  file directory; internal improvements.
    1.4  (Sep89) - improved protocol; Delete function; directory shows
                  free space; ZIPCFG utility; small improvements.
    1.41 (Nov89) - DesqView aware; multiple file arguments.
    1.42 (Feb90) - minor improvements; ZIPDUP utility.
    1.43 (Mar90) - simplified multiple argument syntax.
    1.44 (Aug90) - protocol modified for use in network environments.
    1.45 (Mar91) - 4800, 2400bps added; operation at slow speeds improved.
    1.5  (Aug91) - unlink function; options /B,U,?; sets ERRORLEVEL;
                  recovers from cable disruption; minor improvements.
    1.51 (Jan92) - "@FLIST" ability; color output; 40-col operation.
    1.52 (Jun92) - options /D,K; autoconfigures for HP95LX.
    1.6  (Nov92) - Compare, Log commands; /C option; delete accepts wildcards;
                  default directory affects all operations consistently.
    1.61 (Dec92) - new /L option; minor fixes.
    1.62 (Mar93) - speeded up /E,N,T transfers; /P works on both ends.


---------------------- F. ABOUT THE PROGRAM AND AUTHOR -----------------------


     As of Fall 1992, ZIP has been well reviewed in numerous computer
newsletters, and Bantam Books has requested permission to include it on disk
with the next edition of "DOS Power Tools 6.0".  ZIP has already been included
on the HP Palmtop Paper's subscriber disk for HP95LX users, and on disk with
"The Little Laptop Book" by Steve Cummings, published by Peachpit Press.

         "lightning fast and simple to learn... simply dazzling...
         ZIP provides the fastest file transfer between PC's using
         the tiniest amount of disk space...  a simple, lean, and
         very effective program, not to mention the fastest of all
         the programs we looked at for this review."
                         -- Bil. Alvernaz, Quantum PC Report, June 1992


     Eric Meyer has also written the VDE editor/word processor and a number of
other utilities for IBM PC compatibles.  He holds an A.B. in physics and a
Ph.D. in history and philosophy of science, and has taught at the Universities
of Indiana, Oklahoma, and Colorado.  A longtime advocate of microcomputers, he
has done programming in HP-41, Z80 assembler, BASIC, FORTRAN, LISP, C, and
APL; lately he has been working mostly in 8086 assembler.  In a period of
escalating software complexity and prices, he still believes that useful,
inexpensive software should remain available to computer users worldwide.


====================================[end]=====================================