This directory contains a selection of the best ‘public domain’ software on the Archimedes. The term ‘public domain’ has come to be synonymous with free or cheap software, but strictly speaking menas that the author has given up all rights to the package. This is not the case with the software here, which the authors still firmly retain copyright over. However ‘public domain’ is a generally understood label, and is used here for convenience (however inaccurately).
The FREEWARE directory contains Freeware software. This is in the main software which may be freely distributed, and indeed whose distribution is encouraged, provided only a nominal charge is made for the distribution.
The SHAREWARE directory contains Shareware software. This is software that is distributed on the understanding that anyone who uses it for more than a few days should register (by sending money) with the original author. Please do so if you find the software useful – it helps the authors feel appreciated. Incidentally, there is no rule saying that you can’t send a Freeware author money if you like his or her program either. :-)
The CATALOGUES directory contains catalogues and ordering software for three PD libraries: Five Star Marketing, APDL and The Datafile.
The exact terms under which you may use and distribute the software varies from package to package. Always read the documentation provided with the software to see what is permitted, and respect the wishes of the author. All the authors have given permission for this software to appear on the CD-ROM; this does not *in itself* imply permission for the software to be ditributed further. Check the documents with each package, usually the author will want the software to reach as many people as possible.
The software is mostly organised by name of application, except where several applications have been provided by one author, where they are in an archive bearing the author’s name.
I would like to thank all the software writers who have contributed to this section of the disc, and who sent in their programs by e-mail, floppy disc or (in one case) 100Mb intrenal SCSI hard disc. I have tried to include everything I have been sent; if I missed your program off the omission was not deliberate, and I hope to rectify it on the next CD-ROM.
