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NewZAP: Program and Documentation (c) 1986-1991 Proprietary
Products
WHAT IS NEWZAP?
===============
NewZAP is a multi-purpose file sector editing utility. If you've
ever had the need to alter just a few bytes within a file, examine
its binary and ASCII representations, or search for key sequences of
digits or characters, NewZAP will make your hacking life a little bit
easier. It does what text editors were not meant to do; precise
position-oriented object modifications. NewZAP will run from CLI or
Workbench under 1.1 or 1.2 KickStart with or without FAST RAM.
ORIGINS & CREDITS
=================
NewZAP is a third-generation ZAP utility in the sense that it
descended from Apparat's Z-80 based SuperZap to FileZAP (Fred Fish
disk # 10) to the current. NewZAP was compiled under 16-bit Aztec
"C", with graphics, fontwork and debugging assisted by with Deluxe
Paint, FontEdit, and MetaScope, respectively. Thanx to Scott Saunders
for the competitive edge, Mike Lehman for the much-needed
documentation, and to R.J. Mical for "A Final Note on Style".
Beverages provided by the Coca-Cola Company and Molson Breweries of
Canada, Ltd.
USAGE
=====
The calling sequence from CLI is NewZAP [filename], where
filename is the optional initial file to edit. From Workbench, just
click on the gadget. The rest of the program is... well, self-
explanatory! The current file can be changed at any time by editing
the filename string gadget, writing out any changes to the previous
file before switching. Simply click on the HEX or ASCii windows to
reflect the current editing mode. The cursor can be moved by rolling
the mouse with the left button down, or by using the arrow keys. Note
that each window wraps to the next; i.e., you can click on the HEX
window, move the cursor over the the ASCii side, and edit the ASCii
position while still in HEX mode.
As in FileZAP, you cannot edit past the EOF byte in the last
record. Unlike FileZAP, NewZAP displays and edits full 512-byte
sectors via a 106 character wide internal font. Most commands are
duplicated with matching command sequences; an exception being the
HELP key, which brings up the "About..." menuitem. Disk errors and
sector writes are flagged with a non-abusive audible "beep".
The Search menu is unique to NewZAP. Use it to check for strings
or HEX digits, forward or backward, with or without caps matching.
Tired of batch files that grind your disk drive? Use NewZAP's Search,
Edit and Save functions to modify both instances of ":T" to "T:" in
C:EXECUTE. Execute will henceforth store its preprocessed batch files
anywhere you want provided you have ASSIGNed T: to someplace! I
recommend ASSIGNing T: to RAM: in your Startup-Sequence for
ultra-fast EXECUTEs.
CAVEATS
=======
Some folk have requested the ability to extend files. Well, the
original didn't support it so neither does NewZAP. I've rarely had a
need for this, but perhaps future versions will support it if the
demand is great.
NewZAP expects an 80-column environment for its titles and
gadgets. If you haven't set Preferences yet, do so!
NewZAP is a two-edged sword, and can DESTROY object files with
careless editing. My advice : work on backup copies.
Lastly, NewZAP is shareware, a concept where authors can release
high-quality software at low cost and risk to users. If you like it,
contribute something to the kitty. If you don't, pass it on. A $15
donation will put you on the upgrade list, so you can receive the
next major revision on disk via U.S. Postal service. ENCOURAGE
USER-SUPPORTED SOFTWARE! The author can be reached at :
Dallas J. Hodgson
10115 Scenic Boulevard
Cupertino, Ca. 95014 U.S.A.