Precision Software Appli…tions Silver Collection 1/Precision Software Applications Silver Collection Volume One (PSM) (1993).iso/tutor/pcl570.arj/EQUIPMNT.TUT

Text File | 1993-02-05 | 62KB | 1,079 lines

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                         PURCHASING AND UPGRADING A PC
                          YOU'RE ON THAT SINFUL PATH!

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       This updated section includes notes on purchasing both standard
       sized desktop computers as well as the newer "laptop" computers.

       Buying a new or used computer is always THE traumatic event. It
       seems to be easier if you merely NEED one for a definite office
       or productivity goal such as financial analysis or compiling a
       mailing list of customers. In that case, you can be logical and
       evaluate among several machines and take your time. If, however
       you WANT one because it sounds interesting and you feel a little
       lost when everyone in the neighborhood is discussing CPU WAIT
       STATES, you have some serious research ahead!

       From a use standpoint, start at the beginning: What do you want
       to do with the computer? What software applications will perform
       these tasks? After determining answers to those two questions,
       purchase as much computing power as you can afford which allows
       you to use all current software of interest as well as retaining
       the possibility of upgrading the machine later - more memory or a
       better video display, for example.

       Simple applications like word processing, accounting and
       telecommunications may run equally fast on both budget and high
       end computers while sophisticated software such as drafting,
       large databases and desktop publishing may run so slowly on a
       low end computer that your wasted time far offsets the original
       savings on the budget computer. When in doubt run several
       software packages which provide features you want on the
       computer in question.

       Three technical factors are of interest when purchasing a
       computer: the type of CPU (central processing unit) which is the
       brains of a personal computer, the speed of the CPU and finally
       the choice between 8 bit and 16 bit CPU types.

       A brief refresher course taken from our PC-Learn introduction.
       A bit is a binary digit used by computers to store and process
       data. Typically 8 bits are needed to construct a byte or
       computer character such as a number or letter. Eight bit
       processors can process one byte or character at a time. Sixteen
       bit processors can processor two bytes at a time.

       In the IBM world of clone PC's there are four camps of CPU desire
       and capability.

       On the low end of price and performance are personal computers
       of the so-called XT class using the oldest processors such as
       the Intel 8088 (8 bit data bus outside the CPU and 16 bit data
       bus inside the CPU) which was used on the original IBM PC. The
       Intel 8086 CPU, alternatively, provides both 16 bit internal and
       external construction. A similar CPU is the NEC V-20 chip.
       Advantages, disadvantages and uses for these XT class machines?

       XT's are affordable. A basic machine with a couple of floppy
       drives, monitor and keyboard can be obtained for $300 to $400.
       XT class machines are useful for small and home office work or
       light hobbyist use such as word processing and accounting where
       speed is not of great concern. Generally XT class machines, as
       with all IBM clones, can be upgraded by the gradual (or
       immediate) addition of hard drives, color monitors and even
       faster processors. As a curious aside, PC-LEARN is programmed
       and edited entirely on an XT class machine. In a sense computing
       power does not derive from the machine, but HOW you use it!

       When is an XT not a good buy? If you intend to do CAD drafting,
       work with large database mailing list, or high resolution
       graphics, an XT is not a wise choice. If you ever to run
       the OS/2 operating system or Microsoft Windows which are
       advanced operating and display standards, XT machines are not a
       good idea. Finally, if you intend to expand the machine to
       color graphics such as an EGA or VGA standard or install large
       amounts of memory an XT is probably not an ideal choice.

       One step up the ladder in performance and price is the AT class
       machine which runs an Intel (or alternate manufacturer) 80286
       CPU chip. The machine is usually 2 to 4 times faster than an XT
       class machine at perhaps $200 more in price. For most people an
       AT class machine is a comfortable choice since it can not only
       run OS/2 and Windows (albeit sluggishly) but also run earlier
       software programs at greater speeds. AT class machines are
       considered a "plain vanilla" standard in most office environments
       and are usually sold with hard drives and additional memory as
       standard equipment.

       The 80286 processor also operates in two modes which the 8088
       and 8086 cannot: REAL MODE which allows the 80286 CPU to work
       like an 8088 CPU and PROTECTED MODE which allows access to more
       RAM memory. In theory, the older 8088 CPU chip can address up to
       1 Megabyte of memory. An 8088 CPU always operates in real mode.

       In protected mode, however, the 80286 CPU can use up to 16
       Megabytes of memory which can be an advantage in running both
       larger, more sophisticated programs as well as earlier programs.
       In addition, the 80286 CPU can, with the proper software, run
       several programs simultaneously which is know as MULTITASKING.

       The benefits of both protected mode and multitasking are
       somewhat unrealized at present although certain of these
       benefits can be obtained when running Windows software rather
       than DOS. Because of this, most users who continue to run DOS
       use an 80286 computer as a FAST device rather than seeking the
       advantages of multitasking or protected mode operation. And the
       80286 is VERY fast indeed with some manufacturers pushing the
       CPU to speeds of 25 Mhz.

       Generally, adding additional upgrade equipment such as EGA
       monitors and laser printers is a good investment with an AT
       machine but a poor idea with an XT machine. The AT machine uses
       a 16 bit bus structure for rapid data flow while the older XT
       class machine uses a more primitive 8 bit bus.

       AT class machines run graphics and CAD programs relatively
       quickly. Hard drives operate quickly on an AT class machine with
       its larger 16 bit bus. For most folks an AT will last quite a
       few years and expand nicely with extra peripherals as time goes
       on. It is a good choice for the small home office doing word
       processing, accounting, light desktop publishing, medium sized
       database mailing lists and so forth.

       Still higher up the food chain are 80386 and 80386SX CPU
       equipped machines which are still faster and provide a few more
       whistles and bells. They can run software which XT and AT class
       machines run, only FASTER. They are the machines of choice for
       office LAN networks, intensive graphics, CAD programming,
       Windows, OS/2, compilers and other number intensive programs.

       Curiously, though, the 80386 data bus remains 16 bits wide in
       most of these machines and there is no "OS/3" operating system,
       so the performance you derive is speed without additional
       whistles and bells. For most users, a "386" machine is mostly an
       office computer which a home or hobby user might admire but
       rarely need.

       Intel corrected the problem of switching from real mode to
       protected mode - a design flaw of the 80286 - and added a third
       mode called virtual mode which allows the CPU to act as if
       several "separate" 8088 computers are all running within one
       machine. In addition the 80386 chip is a true 32 bit CPU which
       processes four bytes or characters at a time. This 32 bit
       structure effectively makes the 80386 CPU twice as fast as the
       80286 CPU. Finally, the 80386 can directly address a whopping
       four gigabytes of memory if available which is 256 times larger
       than the amount of memory the 80286 can address! The downside is
       that many of these advantages cannot be realized when running
       DOS. Windows or OS/2 operating systems provide access to these
       advanced features. Speed and additional memory capability is the
       primary byproduct of operating an 80386 within a DOS environment.

       The 80386SX is an affordable variant of the 80386 CPU. The key
       difference is that it uses an EXTERNAL 16 bit data bus outside
       the CPU which is similar to that used on conventional 80286 or
       AT class computers. Internally it is quite similar to its big
       brother, the 80386, and offers similar multitasking modes and
       memory addressing. It can run all of the software the 80386
       machine can, albeit slightly more slowly. These design
       compromises allow manufacturers to produce an affordable
       computer with a good balance of speed and cost. For many users
       needing a powerful computer which can run all current and most
       future software, the 80386SX is an enviable balance of
       performance versus price and offers superior memory management,
       optimum speed and ability to run current and future software.

       The primary reason to select a 80386 over the 80386SX involves
       the need for higher speed processing, ability to run 32-bit
       software and advanced multitasking.

       Before introducing the fourth Intel CPU, the 80486, two new
       concepts must be mentioned: memory caching and mathcoprocessing.

       As the speed of the CPU becomes faster, the RAM memory chips
       where data is stored have difficulty moving data into and out of
       the CPU. Memory caching involves special high speed RAM memory
       chips - typically an amount from 64K to 128K - in addition to
       the normal memory chips within the computer. These high speed
       chips are expensive but keep data poised to quickly move in and
       out of the CPU. Memory caching should not be confused with disk
       caching which is another concept used when discussing hard
       drives.

       A second way to increase performance is to install a math
       coprocessor chip into the empty socket which is available on
       most computers. This device shares the processing of specific
       numeric operations which can slow the CPU. Only certain types of
       software support math coprocessors such as some CAD, spreadsheet
       and graphics software. Not all software benefits from the use of
       a math coprocessor.

       The 80486 CPU combines the features of the 80386 chip plus the
       addition of a self-contained on-chip coprocessor and memory
       cache. Although the memory cache is small, a mere 8K, it is
       extremely effective since it is onboard with the CPU itself. The
       80486 is useful for advanced scientific applications, CAD
       drafting, graphics and high speed LAN (local area network)
       shared computers in an office environment.

       An 80486SX CPU is also available which is essentially a "poor
       man's" 80486 with a smaller external data bus.

       Back to CPU clock speed. Older XT (8088 CPU) machines operate at
       a relatively slow speed of 4.7 to 10.0 Mhz or Megahertz. One
       Megahertz equals one million cycles of electricity per second.

       AT class machines (80286 CPU) operate in regions of 10 to 25 Mhz
       while 80386 and 80486 machines operate at speeds in the 20 to
       40Mhz region. Obviously faster is better especially when it
       comes to colorful graphics displays, CAD drafting, large
       spreadsheets and massive programming tasks. However simple word
       processing, small business accounting and routine mailing list
       management is more than adequate at 4.7 Mhz. The need for speed
       is relative to the computing task at hand!

       Let's backtrack for a moment and discuss RAM memory. Most
       computers are sold with a specific amount of memory installed on
       the main "motherboard". Increments of 640K to 1Meg of memory are
       common. It is commonly advertised that additional memory may be
       added as "expandable on the motherboard" to some upper limit
       such as 4Meg or 8Meg. Thus the user can easily install plug in
       chips of SIMM's (single inline memory modules) to sockets on the
       motherboard. If possible, insist on SIMM memory modules which
       are simpler for the average user to install rather than earlier
       DRAM chips. Additional plug in memory boards can also be
       installed into computers having an 80286 or higher CPU. Up to 16
       Meg of RAM memory is possible on 80286 CPU equipped computers.

       Why install more memory beyond the 640K which DOS can address?
       For fast memory caching, RAM disks, TSR installations, access
       to programs which can use either or both expanded or extended
       memory, to run the Windows operating system or OS/2. These
       software requirements are not terribly exotic - but are simply
       ways to improve performance and speed for more experienced
       computer users.

       The hard disk is also a consideration in any computer purchase.
       CPU speed is determined by the clock speed of the computer while
       hard drive speed is determined by two factors: access speed and
       drive type.

       Extremely fast hard drives operate at 18 milliseconds access
       time or faster. Bargain computer hard drives operates in the
       range of 28 to 40 milliseconds. Hard drives must also be mated
       to a controller circuit which offers its own blend of
       performance and economy. MFM and RLL drive/controller
       combinations are earlier and less expensive hard drives while
       ESDI, IDE and SCSI drives are faster and more expensive high
       performance options. See the PC-Learn tutorial on hard drives.

       Floppy drives come is various configurations. Budget computers
       may contain only a 1.2MB floppy drive and hard drive. This
       configuration can read two floppy densities: 1.2MB and 360K
       floppies. A more flexible computer contains a hard drive, 1.2MB
       floppy and 1.44MB floppy. This computer can read four floppy
       formats: 1.2MM, 1.44MB, 720K and 360K. Ask if a budget computer
       can later be upgraded to include other drive configurations. The
       new smaller drives housing the rigid "mini floppies" such as
       the 1.44MB and 720K formats hold 20% to 50% more data in a
       sturdy plastic case with spring loaded dust door.

       For aspects about video configurations see the PC-Learn tutorial
       on video circuits. Briefly, monochrome is suitable for low end
       word processing but today's software usually requires VGA color
       resolution as a minimum. An affordable option is a VGA video
       card and a MONOCHROME (black and white) VGA monitor which
       provides an acceptable 64 shades of gray with most modern
       software applications.

       Several sources of computer equipment are available - each with
       a different flavor.

       1) Manufacturer direct or direct sales, such as Dell, Northgate
       and Zeos. This method usually assures relatively high quality
       at fairly attractive price savings since you are dealing
       directly with those who design and manufacture the computer.
       Service is usually good, via telephone, FAX and BBS. The
       downside is that you must deal through the mail and await
       delivery. Price is very attractive, but not necessarily the
       lowest available.

       2) Retail vendors such as Computerland or Tandy. Convenience is
       the factor here since service, returns and delivery is handled
       locally. You pay slightly higher for this additional
       convenience. Generally this is the most expensive computer
       purchase option.

       3) Mail Order Houses. Almost 15 percent of PC sales are
       conducted by mail. Mail order houses do not completely design
       and build their own systems like direct sellers but rely on
       imported and pre-manufactured assemblies. Technical phone
       support can be variable, but if you shop carefully, you can save
       even more over local retail or manufacturer direct channels.
       Mail order sources are available in newsstand magazines such as
       Computer Shopper and PC Sources.

       4) VAR's or Resellers. These specialized vendors usually provide
       systems in volume frequently with "value added" features such as
       special software setup, training or unique customization of
       computer systems.

       5) Home brewers. The ready availability of computer components
       has spawned a cottage industry of small shops, some in home or
       low rent office spaces which can custom design a system or allow
       you to build your own computer using parts and facilities which
       they provide. These small, minimum overhead operations can
       provide extremely low prices but guarantees and service
       contracts should be provided in writing and background of the
       vendor should be investigated carefully.

       What are some questions and requirements in purchasing a system?

       What speeds are available on the CPU? 10 Mhz is standard on XT's
       with 12 to 20 Mhz on AT's and 33 mhz on 80386 machines. How many
       free slots are available on the internal motherboard for
       expansion with future upgrade circuits? Five to eight expansion
       slots is desirable except on small laptop computers. Is there
       both a serial and parallel port? How many of each? Mouse port?
       Is a clock chip included? How big is the hard drive? 40  to 80
       Meg is considered somewhat standard in size today for most hard
       drives although smaller 20 meg hard drives are useful for light
       office use computers.

       How many bays are available for extra drives? Two is minimum.
       How many floppies? What size of floppies? Most computers today
       minimally have either two floppies OR one floppy and one hard
       drive. Who makes the hard drive? Seagate, Connor and Miniscribe
       are considered reasonable, although not exclusive choices. Who
       makes the floppy drive? Teac, Panasonic, Sony and Toshiba are
       considered reputable in floppy manufacture.

       Whose BIOS chip powers the machine? Phoenix, Award and AMI Bios
       chips are all fine. How much memory is installed on the
       motherboard. 640K is a bare minimum for all machines with 80286
       and 80386 machines usually offered with at least two to four
       Megs of RAM memory. Any memory cache chips? Any coprocessor
       installed? Coprocessor socket available?

       What warranty covers the product and for how long? Does the
       warranty cover both parts and labor? Does the vendor have
       sufficient inventory to replace the entire computer if problems
       arise? Is there a different warranty for the printer? Who
       provides the service? What is the vendor's return policy AND
       refund policy. Is there a restocking charge? Is there a discount
       or change in price when dealing by check or charge card? How
       long has the vendor been in business? Is the warranty 90 days,
       one year or two years as some manufacturers are now offering?
       Money back guarantee? How long? 30, 60, 90 days? What type of
       refund on this guarantee: store credit, cash, exchange? Will you
       put it in writing? Shipping and handling fee? Visa card
       surcharge?

       How good is technical support? Is there a toll-free support
       line? 24 hours or limited hours? Is there a BBS (modem)
       telephone line for support?

       Is maintenance performed on site (the customer's location) or
       only at the vendor's location? Response time? Special
       conditions? Is the on-site service essentially the same in
       terms, such as parts and labor, as off-site?

       Has the vendor sold computers to buyers in your business
       specialty (medical, for example). References? How long has the
       vendor been in business?

       What is the estimated life of the PC? Of the hard drive? How far
       can it be upgraded? In RAM memory? How many expansion slots?
       Can the CPU be upgraded? The display and graphics card? What is
       the MTBF or mean time between failure of the components such as
       the hard drive and printer according to printed manufacturer's
       literature?

       Does the computer come with ALL the parts you will need such as
       monitor and graphics card? On many bare bones systems this is
       extra.

       Are the accessories from the same manufacturer? Is the item
       available for immediate shipment or is a backorder the option of
       the moment? When will it be shipped? Has there been a recent
       price increase?

       Any financing options available from the vendor which offer
       advantage over bank or credit card purchase? Leasing options?
       Bank financing carried by the vendor? What bank?

       Extras included with purchase? Documentation? DOS software? What
       version? DOS 5.0 is the latest. Mouse? Software installed on the
       hard drive? Is it legal software? Is is commercial software?
       Shareware?

       Any training classes provided? When? How often. Brush up
       training free?

       What utilities and extra software comes with the machine? Any
       hard drive menu systems or utility software? How is the
       documentation? Really good or just whatever the manufacturer had
       translated?

       What display monitor and card are included (if any)? VGA is
       standard. EGA is minimum. CGA and Hercules are the bare minimum.
       Are printer cables included with purchase of the printer? Any
       spare printer ink cartridges included?

       How is the keyboard. Springy and clicky with a tactile feel or
       just mushy and so so?

       Is the Basic programming language included or is this an extra
       cost. Will the manufacturer throw in a software package suitable
       for beginners such as Microsoft Works? Is the machine FCC class
       B certified (the best) or class A (acceptable)? What is the
       interleave on the hard drive (1:1 is fastest)? Is the keyboard
       an 84 key type or 101 key type?

       Is the computer case metal or plastic? How hard or easy is it to
       pop the cover and install new circuit cards? Does the keyboard
       plug into the front or back of the machine? The front plug
       option is a sometimes more handy. Is the reset and on/off switch
       on the front, back or side of the machine? Front is again more
       handy. Panel lights on the machine to indicate CPU speed and
       hard drive use? Keylock for security? How many copies of the
       key? Does your key fit all the computers in the store too?

       Does a local computer club/user group buy from the vendor which
       might provide personal references who can discuss why they
       bought from that vendor?

       For those who wish to read published reviews concerning specific
       brands of computers, printers, monitors, modems and software:
       the most complete resource is PC Magazine published by Ziff-
       Davis and available at most libraries and many newsstands. PC
       Magazine editors usually select one or two items within a
       product classification as their "Editors Choice." The complete
       index to both PC Magazine as well as their product review index
       is contained in their on-line modem service PC MagNet.
       Instructions for reaching PC Magnet by modem are contained in
       the Utilities section included within each issue of PC Magazine.

       For product reviews of hardware and software you may wish to
       download the PC MagNet files PCM.EXE, PCSRCH.EXE and PCM.INF
       which are quite large. The files occupy more than 2 Megabytes of
       disk space and require about 1.5 hours of somewhat expensive
       modem connect time. Alternatively, you can reach the same
       index of products on line within PC MagNet by typing GO REVIEWS
       which allows you to search the product review database directly.
       A larger database of 130 periodicals and their respective
       product reviews can be viewed by typing GO COMPLIB from within
       PC MagNet. Additional product review sources are suggested on
       page 27 of the June 26, 1990 issue of PC Magazine (Vol 9 No 12.)
       Page 397 of the same issue contains instructions on reaching and
       using PC MagNet by modem.

       If you do not have a modem or a friend with that capability, a
       low-tech method for reviewing specific computer hardware and
       software recommendations is to visit a local library which
       contains back issues of PC Magazine. Glance at the magazine
       cover for highlights of products reviewed in that issue. If you
       work your way from the current issue backwards in time for 6 to
       12 months, you should find detailed reviews on the equipment you
       are investigating. Many computer clubs maintain a library of PC
       Magazine issues and may be a source if your local library does
       not subscribe to the magazine.

       Yet another way to constructively shop for computer equipment is
       to obtain free catalogs which are provided at no charge by
       reputable computer vendors and manufacturers. See the listing of
       free equipment catalogs contained in the recommended
       reading/bibliography section of PC-LEARN elsewhere on this disk.

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                         PURCHASING A LAPTOP COMPUTER

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       There is an allure to purchasing a laptop computer. They are
       small, sleek and highly productive. What features should you
       consider when purchasing a laptop? For those who need quick
       highlights first we'll present a brief overview for the cautious
       laptop buyer. Later in this tutorial we'll shift gears for a
       broader "beginners" overview.

       Before jumping into our tutorial, a reading recommendation.
       Visit your local library and locate a back issue of the August
       1992 edition of PC Magazine. That issue covered a variety of
       reviews concerning specific laptop machines and also contained
       some surprising suggestions for productive laptop use. While on
       the topic of pertinent reading, check for other useful titles in
       the reading list section elsewhere within this tutorial.

       Next, general suggestions for laptop buyers...

       1) The keyboard is the most important interactive part
       of any laptop. Is it awkward? Could you use it for longer than
       15 minutes? An hour? A complete morning at work? Note the
       location of frequently used keys like the backslash \, the F1
       function help key, the cursor control keys. Some oddball laptops
       require you to use a shift-funtion key combination for cursor
       keys. Not terribly comfortable. Othertimes the cursor position
       keys are oddly laid out in a non standard pattern which is
       difficult to use and memorize. One of the classic keyboard
       layouts is the Toshiba 286 T1200XE. Glance at the layout on this
       machine and compare it to your target laptop.

       2) The screen. Next to the keyboard this is the greatest delight
       - or pain - when it comes to using a laptop computer. Can you
       use it for longer than an hour? Screens can be either backlit or
       edgelit. Each has advantages. Try both and see which you like. A
       few clever laptops have screen reversing software built in which
       can change the screen from black lettering on a light field to
       light lettering on a dark field. Helpful for some folks. Ask if
       your target machine has it. Find out if you like it. Is the
       output VGA (display and run most software) or lowly CGA (run
       and display fewer packages?) Is there a port on the back so you
       can plug in your big monitor to the back of the laptop when you
       are home or at the office? Do you need to buy an adapter for
       this? On an airplane tray can the screen be tilted so that the
       seat in front does not bump into the screen edge?

       3) Weight. Fully outfitted with adapters, disks and batteries,
       what is the real "workday" weight of the laptop? Load the
       machine and accessories into a carrying case and heft it for a
       while. Brochures proclaim extremely light weight figures - in
       real life you will carry the computer and accessories.

       4) Price. Determine the REAL price. You will need an AC
       adapater, carrying case and probably spare battery as a minimum.
       You will need DOS and some software. Beyond that, most people
       need a few manufacturer specific cables and sometimes a modem.
       Add it ALL up.

       5) Battery life is a touchy subject - ultimately the attraction
       of laptops is the opportunity to get work done on the road.
       Battery life of an hour or so isn't much real work, when you
       think about it. Two to four hours on a fully charged battery is
       a working range today. Ask if the laptop has special battery
       saving features such as sleep mode, pause and resume, user
       selectable delays for drive and screen refresh use, powerdown
       mode, capability to change batteries without shutting down the
       machine and loosing data. Nice features. Is it easy and FAST to
       change batteries or a real chore? Look at the clasps and snaps
       as you open and close the battery compartment.

       6) Modems. Someday you will need one. Does the laptop have a
       standard serial modem slot to which any low priced modem can
       be attached or a proprietary manufacturer specific slot to which
       ONLY that manufacturer's (expensive) modem will attach? For a
       few extra dollars consider a modem with combined internal fax
       send and receive capability which is a godsend for travellers.
       Much cheaper in the long run than paying your hotel $6 per page
       to transmit and receive faxes.

       7) How much memory can you add to the laptop? For light word
       processing and spreadsheet work 640K may be all you need. But
       serious software use, Windows use or high end graphics may
       require 2 or more Megabytes of memory. How much can you install
       into the machine? How much will it cost? Can you install the
       additional memory or must the factory?

       8) Drives. A standard 3.5 inch floppy drive is almost essential
       today. A hard drive, too, if you can afford it. If the laptop
       has no floppy, you might need to purchase special software and
       cables to transfer files between your laptop and desktop
       computer. One more expense. Back to the hard drive for a moment:
       if you work with large mailing lists, huge databases of clients
       or unusually large spreadsheets you MUST have a hard drive with
       larger than average capacity. Between 40MB to 100MB would be a
       wise investment for hard drive intensive storage applications.

       9) Details. Beyond a serial port (for the modem or mouse) does
       it have a parallel port for a printer? How about capability for
       an external keyboard? Slot for math coprocessor? Null modem
       cable for transferring data between other computers.

       10) Form follows function. If you plan to use the laptop mostly
       as your PRIMARY machine at home and work, focus on maximum power
       and expandable features. If you are a power user of Windows and
       graphics software you will need VGA display, at least 2MD of ram
       and at least a 386SX processor. However, if your primary work is
       spent on the road in planes and trains, pay attention to long
       battery life and quickly interchangeable battery packs.

       11) Consider the new breed of tiny portable printers which work
       well with laptops. Included are the Diconix 150 Plus which
       weighs in at 3 pounds, Canon BJ-10 Bubblejet, Citizen PN48 and
       Star Micronics StarJet SJ-48. All printers will need spare ink
       cartridges, printer cable, paper, AC power supply and spare
       batteries.

       A brief glance at portable computer configurations....

       Laptops are for the most part single-piece computer systems
       weighing in at between 7 to 15 pounds. In most cases the viewing
       screen opens in a characteristic "clamshell" manner. All are IBM
       compatible and most will functions from AC or battery power.
       Most offer some expanability in memory and some, but not all
       will even accept an expansion board. The latest designs can
       mater to a "docking module" which adds powerful desktop features
       when the units are used in a stationary office setting. Prices
       range from about $700 to well over $5,000 for advanced models.
       Examples: the Toshiba T4400SX, Librex M386SL, Bondwell B-310SX,
       Dell 320LT.

       Notebooks weigh in at 4 to 7 pounds and usually feature both AC
       and battery power. Both hard drive and floppy drive models are
       available. Prices range from $700 to about $2,000. By far
       notebooks are the most popular category in the consumer
       marketplace and for most users have the best balance of weight,
       cost and features. Examples: Epson NB3, Dell NX-20, Tandy 1800
       HD, Sharp 6220, Tandy 110 HD, NEC 286F UltraLite, Compaq LTE286,
       Toshiba T1200XE.

       Palmtops. The smallest of the small. Weighing in at a pound or
       less these machines features minaturized keyboards, vestpocket
       size, lack of hard or floppy drives and varying amounts of true
       IBM compatability. Features are sacrificed in the quest for
       miniaturization. Some, such as the Hewlett-Packard 95LX contain
       built in software such as the standard Lotus 1-2-3 spreadsheet.
       At this writing, only the diminuitive Poqet palmtop is equipped
       to run most IBM compatable software. Tiny credit card sized
       memory modules are available for some models. Prices range from
       about $400 to over $2,000.

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

                       TRAVELLING WITH A LAPTOP COMPUTER

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

       Laptops are made to travel. Their small size and potent features
       make computing on the road a snap. Consider using this
       assortment of tips which seasoned laptop owners have come to
       rely on....

       Airports are a frequent transit point for laptop owners. Be sure
       to be prepared for a SPEEDY passage through airport security by
       being aware that in most cases you MUST boot up the laptop so
       that a DOS prompt, menu or other sign of visible activity is
       displayed on the screen. Security officials do this for a
       reason: if a laptop computer has been tampered with or hollowed
       out to serve as an empty shell for explosives or weapons, the
       machine will not boot up or operate. By forcing the laptop owner
       to activate the machine, airport security is effectively
       screening for tampered machines.

       Once you know this, several important tips are quite useful.
       Always carry a BOTH a fully charged battery and AC adapter with
       the laptop. No power means no possibility of booting the machine
       and your laptop might be forced to remain behind!

       To speed the process on laptops equipped with hard drives try an
       experiment. Prepare a bootable floppy disk with DOS system files
       and a short AUTOEXEC.BAT program which boots the machine rapidly
       since DOS usually tries to boot from a floppy first and then the
       hard drive second. Now time how long it takes to boot from the
       floppy as well as the hard drive. Whichever is faster is the one
       you want to use to speed your trip through airport security. But
       ALWAYS take the bootable floppy as well. Why? If your laptop
       hard drive becomes damaged in transit - a possibility in today's
       airport environments - then you have a floppy backup which will
       also get you through airport security.

       Cursor size and blink rate on many laptops are atrocious. Third
       party software utilities are available which can alter both size
       and shape of the cursor - we will discuss these in more detail
       in the software section of the Laptop tutorial. However the
       point to be made is that you might find one ideal cursor size
       and blink rate for airplane use and a DIFFERENT cursor size and
       blink rate better at the office or in the airport. Try various
       combinations in various lighting. Several different cursor
       configurations are quite handy when travelling under varying
       lighting conditions. By the way in a pinch, The WordPerfect word
       processing package has just such a utility you might want to dig
       out if you own WordPerfect but have never used software cursor
       control utility!

       Did your portable printer malfunction and crash while you are on
       the road? Or maybe you just don't want to carry your printer at
       all. Here's an obvious idea: use your laptop and modem/faxboard
       to fax your file to the hotel front desk fax machine and pick it
       up there! If your modem lacks fax transmit capability, send the
       file via modem to CompuServe and let them re-send it to your
       hotel fax machine using their fax transmission capability.
       Worried that the fax image might fade or curl with heat or
       handling? Then xerox copy it onto standard paper which is a more
       permanent material than fax paper.

       Speaking of modems, the smallest and most "laptop useful" modems
       are available from U.S. Robotics (call 708/982-5010.) Their
       World Port modem is truly tiny, fully-featured and ruggedly
       designed for travellers. Hayes has also produced the Pocket
       Modem (call 404/449-8791.) Some of the most clever portable
       modems do not even need battery power - they draw current from
       the computer or telephone line.

       Hotels and airlines always have carpeting. And carpeting is
       productive of electrical static. Shuffle across the floor in
       most travel facilities on a dry or cool day and you get a spark
       when you touch the doorknob. This same static electricity
       buildup can ruin the EPROM chip in your laptop keyboard when you
       sit down to use the laptop. Be sure to first touch a bathroom
       faucet with a coin. To eliminate static in your hotel room,
       just take off your shoes and socks!

       Carry extra charged batteries on long flights or international
       flights. Seems like a simple tip, but that battery pack you
       bought two years ago may finally decide it has a one hour life
       somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean. Rechargeable batteries cannot
       be recharged forever - after two to five years they begin to die.

       Be sure you know how to turn off the speaker beep facility in
       your laptop. Crowded airplanes indicate courtesy. Third party
       software utilities exist which will provide this capability if
       you own an older laptop without this software or hardware
       feature. More about this in our software tutorial.

       Conserve power on long flights. Turn down the screen brightness
       to save power. Use the auto-resume feature if your laptop
       contains the capability. Switch to slow mode or lower the
       processing speed of your CPU chip. Your instruction book may
       mention some or all of these features.

       Some laptops have a variation of the auto resume feature that
       even allows you to change batteries right in the middle of a
       program. Check your manual. Might be a lifesaver on a plane
       trip.

       Save still more power when travelling by investigating software
       ram disks or virtual disks which, unlike a spinning hard drive
       or floppy, use far less power on long airline flights. DOS
       itself comes with a reasonable although rudimentary ram drive
       called VDISK which all laptop owners should check out. You can
       also obtain third party shareware, commercial and public domain
       ram disk software. Of course be sure to save your work to a
       floppy or hard disk before you turn the machine off since a ram
       disk operates purely in memory and MUST have power to maintain
       your data.

       If you travel out of the country, be sure to register your
       foreign made laptop with U.S. Customs when you depart - so that
       upon return you are not forced to pay duty on a machine you
       bought in the U.S. but which customs officials will suspect was
       purchased overseas. This can be a sticky subject. Contact a
       local customs office for instructions on registering your
       machine prior to departure.

       Travellers should also consider etching your name, address,
       telephone and social security number onto the machine in several
       places. Although this may decrease the resale value of the
       laptop, it also increases chances of recovery in case of theft.
       Don't make the mistake of etching ONLY your social security
       number onto your laptop. Federal privacy laws prevent release of
       your social security records even to some law enforcement
       agencies and in that respect having only your social security
       number on valuable items is probably next to worthless as a
       security item.

       Hotels are getting better about providing modular plug in
       telephone jacks for laptop users who need to hook up a modem.
       But it seems the telephone jack on the wall is always ten feet
       from the nearest table where you laptop sits. Solution? Always
       bring a modem extension cord with in-line connector. Makes
       laptop modem work a joy! Another tip: use the hotel's toll free
       800 number to call ahead and doublecheck that your room is wired
       with modular plug-in telephone jacks. Takes a moment and costs
       you nothing! Speaking of plugs, investigate the new breed of
       miniature surge supressing AC adapters if you travel to foreign
       countries whose voltage can be less reliable than that in the
       U.S.

       You can obtain special anchor plates or straps which attach to
       the bottom or side of a laptop with permanent glue. A flexible
       steel cable and lock lets you secure your laptop to a hotel
       radiator or piece of furniture and defeats all but the most
       determined thief.

       For those who absolutely need telephone links when travelling,
       consider purchasing an acoustic modem coupler which works with
       all telephones when you cannot plug your modem into the wall.
       Acoustic couplers work by attaching directly to the mouthpiece
       and earpiece of any standard phone and transfer data directly by
       sound transmission. By the way, in overseas areas you will soon
       find that you need a maddening array of special adapters to hook
       your modem to the telephone line directly. An acoustic modem
       coupler is the only truly "universal" adapter which will connect
       to all telephones throughout the world.

       Another modem tip when using hotel telephone lines: arrange with
       the front desk or operator to ALWAYS put your call DIRECTLY
       through without intervention. Many hotel system route your call
       through a switchboard which prevents your modem from getting a
       dial tone!

       Diehard laptop users who communicate with the head office via
       modem should also investigate remote computing software which we
       will discuss later. Remote computing software allows you in your
       hotel in New York to call San Francisco by modem and then
       connect directly with your desktop computer or office LAN
       network. Once connected, you can run your word processor, obtain
       files, check figures on the office spreadsheet and more. In
       essence your laptop functions as a remote keyboard for a
       computer which is thousands of miles away. Shareware, public
       domain and commercial software packages of this type are
       available. But if you do this, here is one important tip many
       travellers learn the hard way: ALWAYS leave a note for the
       maintenance person or janitor which tells them not to turn off
       what appears to be your idle office desktop computer. Oh, and
       while you are gone, turn off the desktop monitor but leave on
       the pc if you plan to compute remotely. This saves power and
       prevents screen burnout!

       Need to test if two files are slightly different as you check
       newer document files against older ones? Or maybe just backup
       all NEWER revisions of your files to a floppy or transmit them
       by modem to the head office? Use the DOS XCOPY command to track
       down differences between two files such as word processing
       documents. DOS also previously had an older File Compare command
       called FC which accomplishes the same thing. Sidekick version 2
       has a reconcile feature and Lap-Link can transfer files between
       to computers and check dates and times to make sure you are
       obtaining the newest version of a file or to ensure that both
       computers indeed have the latest file.

       By the way, here is an example of how to use the DOS XCOPY
       command to copy all files from ALL subdirectories on a laptop
       hard drive named C: onto a backup floppy in the A: drive which
       have been updated on or later than March 15, 1992. Very handy
       when you are on the road and want to copy or prepare for modem
       transmission all of your updated files for the head
       office. At the DOS prompt type:

       XCOPY C:\*.* A:/S/D:03/15/92

       Consider travel insurance for replacement of your laptop in case
       of theft. Contact Safeware at 800/848-3469.

       Business travellers often have to present VERY important
       presentations with their laptops. Essential job proposals,
       contracts, crucial price schedules. If it is important to your
       business, always make a backup copy on floppy disk. Seems
       simple, but many business users discover that their hard drive
       equipped laptop has crashed due to airport handling in transit.
       A floppy can save the day and in a pinch you can rent a computer
       or borrow one from your client. If data matters, put it on a
       floppy.

       Make sure you ALWAYS carry a null modem cable and file transfer
       software with your laptop when travelling. You can probably
       patch into another desktop computer to transfer files in
       emergency, but without the null modem cable and software you are
       stuck. Practice transferring files between several computers
       before you travel so you have the process comfortably memorized.

       For the truly worried traveller, also carry a pair of gender
       changer plugs which allow hookup of male to male and female to
       female cable connections. Also a 25 to 9 pin plug adapter.

       Laptop computer die in transit? Carry a set of jewelers
       screwdrivers and floppy disk cleaning kit. If a few simple
       things such as this won't fix it, then grab the yellow pages and
       look under computer rentals. By the way, many hotels maintain
       rental laptops for business travellers. But the secret is that
       the rate is far cheaper by renting from a local vendor than the
       hotel. Make a few phone calls and get a laptop delivered to your
       hotel suite in case of emergency. The smartest travellers call
       ahead to their destination and reserve a backup laptop in case
       of problems at a local vendor. If the laptop is not checked out
       a small retainer fee is kept by the vendor. This can be done by
       a charge card and a long distance phone call. Same goes for
       renting LCD projection panels for business meetings.

       Consider obtaining a CompuServe account for modem use if you
       travel frequently. You can obtain online support for laptop
       computer problems directly from the manufacturer, download
       special software utility files, transmit important files to the
       home office, send faxes when all you have is a modem which lacks
       fax transmit capabilities (CompuServe converts your modem
       transmission and sends it on via their fax equipment.) Lots of
       good ideas and special laptop discussion forums for business
       travelers. You can even book hotel and airline reservations
       directly by modem using CompuServe, too. Laptops, travel and
       CompuServe go together handsomely.

       Did your ribbon die in your portable printer? Just not black
       enough? Stick some fax paper in the printer. It is heat
       sensitive and will frequently pick up an image without a printer
       ribbon. Amazing but true. This works with dot matrix printers.
       Do not try it with laser printers.

       Check ahead for special regulations. Example: in Germany modems
       are regulated under certain security laws - presumably spies
       could use them to transmit data. You must have a "modem permit"
       in that country or your equipment can be confiscated. In other
       countries and some developing nations such as Africa and India
       confiscation of computer equipment is common - even if all of
       your registration and travel documents are in order! In those
       cases you might be better off leaving your computer at home and
       bringing a tape recorder or notepad. Just because you own a
       computer does not mean you can use it in an unrestricted
       fashion while you travel!

       Tempted to use one of those inexpensive overseas power
       convertors to adapt your AC plug in convertor to European
       current? DON'T DO IT without first checking with the
       manufacturer. Those inexpensive current convertors work fine
       when changing high voltage overseas current to lower voltage US
       current for things like shavers because they reduce the voltage.
       The problem is that most of the world uses 50 cycle AC current
       versus the normal 60 cycle AC current in the U.S. Computers CANNOT
       run from these inexpensive convertors and damage may occur.
       Find out what device the manufacturer supplies or recommends for
       travel outside of your country of residence.

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

                 22 BASIC COMMANDMANTS OF COMPUTER CONSUMERISM

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

       1) Does the computer contain sufficient RAM memory and CPU speed
       for the applications you intend to run and how easy is it to add
       more memory? A 80286 computer may be fine for word processing,
       for example, but a poor choice for extensive desktop publishing.

       2) Is the computer FCC approved with an FCC sticker? Class A or
       B? Class B is better since it means certified for home use and
       theoretically emits less objectionable static radiation.

       3) Have you identified the software you will (or might) be
       using? Can the machine run that software? Is DOS included with
       your machine?

       4) As your needs change in time, will the machine expand or
       change with those needs?

       5) Is the outer case of the computer large enough to accommodate
       additional expansion circuit boards? How many?

       6) Is the power supply sufficiently large for future expansion?
       What is the wattage of the power supply? Is the fan noise low or
       NERVE WRACKING?

       7) How many and what kind of floppy drives do you need?

       8) Is the hard disk (if the machine contains one) certified for
       use with the internal controller board which operates it? What
       make on the controller card and hard drive?

       9) Is the hard disk set with the correct interleave factor?

       10) Will your dealer offer superior service after the sale? Who
       does the service? Where? Any free training classes?

       11) Are all warranties in writing and how do they compare to
       other dealers warranties in writing?

       12) What kind of monitor will you need and does the video
       adapter card inside the computer allow for monitor upgrades and
       will it display the software you intend to use?

       13) Are you buying the computer or a sales pitch?

       14) Are the internal components industry standard? Especially
       the floppy and hard drives. What brands?

       15) Is the dealer trying to sell you more/less than you need?

       16) Have you set a realistic budget?

       17) Have you gathered information for all sources such as
       friends, magazine reviews, stores and advertisements? Are you
       relying on one computer guru from work or, more wisely, several?

       18) If the price is far below the average, something is missing.
       What is it? Quality of the hard drive, lack of higher resolution
       video, toll free telephone support, software such as DOS?

       19) Determine the REAL price by extracting hidden additional
       shipping charges, credit card surcharges, restocking charge if
       item returned.

       20) Pay by credit card if possible since if you end in dispute,
       your credit card company can go to bat for you and issue a
       credit until the dispute is resolved. In addition, many credit
       cards automatically double the manufacturer's warranty.

       21) Get details in writing. What is the salesperson's name? What
       is the exact shipping date? 24 hours? same day? Get it in
       writing via FAX. Retain the ORIGINAL AD which promoted the
       computer. A paper trail established early is the best
       protection. Retain warranty cards long enough to test all
       equipment functions first! If you mail in manufacturer's
       warranty cards too quickly, you may have to settle for
       warranty coverage rather than replacement by the vendor.

       22) Retain all original cartons and packing material. Many
       vendors ABSOLUTELY require it in case of return!

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

            MUSCLE FOR COMPUTER CONSUMERS - THE LONG ARM OF THE LAW

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

       If you are dealing with a mail order supplier, Federal Trade
       Commission rules apply! Essentially the vendor must ship the
       order within 30 days of receiving it unless the advertisement
       states otherwise. If a delay will be experienced in shipment,
       the vendor must notify you in writing of a definite new shipment
       date and also offer you the chance to cancel the order with full
       refund. That notice must include a stamped or self-addressed
       envelope or card which allows you to indicate your choice. If
       you do not respond, the seller may rightfully assume you accept
       the delay. However, the vendor must either ship or cancel the
       original order within 30 days after the original shipping date
       which was promised.

       Any refunds for order cancellation must be made promptly. Even
       if you accept an indefinite delay, you have the right to cancel
       the original order at any time before the item is shipped. If
       you chose to cancel any order, which has been paid by check or
       money order, the vendor must mail a refund within seven business
       days excluding weekends and holidays.

       Likewise if the order was paid for by credit card, the vendor
       must credit your account within one business cycle following
       your cancellation request. Store credits and other methods or
       offers of similar merchandise are NOT acceptable unless you
       agree. If the original item is not available, a substitute item,
       even if similar, is not acceptable unless the vendor has your
       consent. Report violations to the Federal Trade Commission whose
       phone number is usually listed in the blue pages (government
       section) of your local telephone book. Tell the vendor you are
       reporting violations to the FTC and mail the vendor a copy of
       the letter you wrote to the FTC. This usually brings action
       quickly.

       One primary conduit for recourse is the Direct Marketing
       Association which maintains an action line for problem
       resolution. First you should attempt to deal directly with the
       seller, but if a problem is not promptly resolved you may wish
       to contact the Mail Order Action Line, c/o DMA, 6 East 43rd
       Street, NY, NY 10017.

       The first step in any attempt to seek redress from a vendor is
       to notify the supplier in writing that the item is defective
       and include a copy of the invoice with information as to model,
       price, date of order and account number if available. Retain a
       copy of your letter seeking refund or replacement. Any phone
       calls should be followed by a letter.

       Generally do not return the item to the vendor until told how
       and when to do so, since many have formal return policies and
       require "return authorization numbers" which are usually issued
       to you by phone or in writing. The return authorization number
       accompanies the defective item on its return. Keep a copy of the
       shipping receipt and packing slip. Any rights to recover postal
       or shipping costs is determined by the policy of that vendor as
       is usually stated in advertising and product literature.

       You may also consider contacting the attorney general for the
       state in which you live as well as the state in which the vendor
       does business. This can be MOST effective especially if you send
       a copy of that letter to the vendor. If the product was paid for
       with a credit card, you may also retain the right to withhold
       payment or cancel payment which is usually arranged directly
       with your bank or credit card issuing agency. This is explained
       under provisions of the Federal Fair Credit Billing Act.

       Tutorial finished. Have you registered PC-Learn to receive your
       bonus disks? Registration is encouraged. Shareware works on the
       honor system! Send $25 to Seattle Scientific Photography,
       Department PCL5, PO Box 1506, Mercer Island, WA 98040. Latest
       version of PC-Learn and two bonus disks shipped promptly!