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____________
{COMMO} (tm)
____________
"A New Standard in Telecommunications"
by
Fred P. Brucker
Post Office Box 9103
Santa Rosa, CA 95405
User Guide and Reference
Release 4.53
March 29, 1991
This program and associated documentation are the property of the
author and may not be sold without permission. They may be freely
distributed, unaltered and as a unit, via electronic bulletin board
systems. Permission to distribute on diskette or in any other
manner must be obtained in writing. See the file LICENSES for
additional licensing and distribution details.
The author does not guarantee this program to be free from defects
and may not be held responsible for loss caused by such. Your use
of this program constitutes your acceptance of these terms.
(C)Copyright 1989,1991 Fred P. Brucker All Rights Reserved
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page ii
========================
Registration Information
========================
{COMMO} is not a public domain program and is not free. It is
classified as "SHAREWARE." What this means is that you may use the
program for 30 days to determine its suitability to your
application. If after that time you decide to continue using
{COMMO} you must pay the registration fee.
{COMMO} is a unique program and represents a great deal of work. A
lot of functionality has been compressed into a small package, and
more features are being added on a continuing basis. If you find
{COMMO} useful and enjoyable, you can help support future
improvements by registering your copy.
A single-user license is $25.00. A diskette containing the current
release (specify 5.25" or 3.5") will be provided for a $5.00
handling fee. Send a check or money order (US funds) to the address
below.
Details and a multi-user (site) license fee schedule are provided in
the file REGISTER.FRM.
See also the enclosed file LICENSES for complete licensing,
distribution and copyright information.
My (voice) telephone number for inquiries and support for registered
users is (707) 573-1065. Please restrict calls to business hours
(Pacific time).
Thank you, and I hope you enjoy {COMMO}.
Fred P. Brucker
P.O. Box 9103
Santa Rosa, CA 95405
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page iii
========
Contents
========
Preface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Principal Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The Best Way to Learn {COMMO} Quickly . . . . . . . . . 4
Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Command Line Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
{COMMO} Support Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Saving the Support Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Initialization Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Terminal Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
{COMMO} Key Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
[Alt-A] ASCII Upload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
[Alt-B] Send Break Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
[Alt-C] Clear Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
[Alt-D] Dialing Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Dialing Directory Entry Example . . . . . . . . . . 12
[Alt-G] Configuration File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Explanation of items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
[Alt-H] How to Use Online Help . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Modifying the Help File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
[Alt-I] Screen Image Save . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
[Alt-K] Scrollback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
[Alt-L] Set Terminal Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Parameter Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Setting Terminal Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
[Alt-M] Macro Processor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
[Alt-O] Send Modem Initialization String . . . . . . . 29
[Alt-P] Send Current Password . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
[Alt-Q] Quit Call (hang up) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
[Alt-S] Shell to DOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
[Alt-U] Multi Number Dialing . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
[Alt-X] Exit from {COMMO} . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
[Alt-1] Capture File Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
[Alt-2] Print Log Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
[Alt-3] Sound Control Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
[Alt-4] AutoBaud Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
[Alt-5] Local Echo Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
[Alt-0] Signal Lights Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
[Alt--] Chat Mode Toggle (Alt minus) . . . . . . . . 34
[Alt-=] Doorway Mode Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Uploading / Downloading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
{COMMO} Auto Receive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page iv
Programming {COMMO} Macros . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Macro-id and Function Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Additional Macro File Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Executing Macros . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Additional Macro Execution Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
{COMMO} Macro Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Function Arguments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Description of Functions (alphabetical) . . . . . . . . 42
Table of {COMMO} Key-id's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Enhanced Keyboard Key-id's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Appendix A Setting Up Your Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Connecting two computers (null modem cable) . . . . . . 68
Appendix B {COMMO} and Multi-Tasking . . . . . . . . . . . 69
DESQview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
OmniView . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
DoubleDOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Appendix C Flow Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Appendix D ASCII Character Representation . . . . . . . . . 72
Appendix E Terminal Emulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Printer Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
ANSI-BBS Keyboard Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
VT102 Keyboard Simulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Appendix F Error Message Explanations . . . . . . . . . . . 76
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 1
=======
Preface
=======
{COMMO} is a general purpose telecommunications program, also called
a "terminal" program. Use it to dial remote systems and to
communicate using a choice of terminal emulations. Many features
are available to enhance your communications needs.
Other than the ability to transfer ASCII text files, {COMMO} has no
internal file transfer protocols. Instead it provides you with
powerful tools to execute external programs which specialize in this
function.
{COMMO} will run on any PC compatible computer with at least 128k of
memory and one diskette drive. A serial port or internal modem with
an 8250, 16450 or 16550 series UART chip is required.
{COMMO} can be configured to work with virtually any type of modem
that supports asynchronous operations.
LIST is a product of Vernon D. Buerg
DESQview is a trademark of Quarterdeck Office Systems
OmniView is a trademark of Sunny Hill Software
DoubleDOS is a trademark of SoftLogic Solutions, Inc.
DSZ is a product of Omen Technology Inc.
AutoDownload is a trademark of Omen Technology Inc.
MPt is a product of Matthew Thomas
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 2
==================
Principal Features
==================
{COMMO} is small in size, loads rapidly and performs all functions
with great speed.
The powerful Macro Processor allows you to:
1) write macro "scripts" to automate many common operations
such as logins, reading messages, uploading/downloading.
You can sit back and watch {COMMO} do the work -- or you can
let {COMMO} perform these tasks in the middle of the night
while you sleep.
2) assign Function Keys, Alt Keys, Keypad Keys, etc., to send a
string to the modem, execute any DOS command, start any
macro or initiate any {COMMO} function.
3) edit all macros without exiting {COMMO}, using the Internal
Editor.
The free-form Dialing Directory has space for hundreds of entries.
Multi Number Dialing is supported from the command line. AutoBaud
detect adjusts to the speed of the connection. A Macro may be
linked to each directory entry.
Multi-tasking support. {COMMO} is DESQview aware, operates in as
little as 50k of memory and will execute with DSZ in a 120k DV
window (depending on support file sizes). Also supports OmniView,
DoubleDOS and others.
Built-in ANSI-BBS and VT102 emulation. Supports ANSI editing
functions, scrolling region, graphics character set, tab set/clear,
printing, modes, reports, etc. Complete auto-switching VT102
keyboard support via Macro Processor.
ASCII Upload to send messages and text files. Features line pacing
and blank line expansion.
The Configuration File, Dialing Directory and Macro File may be
edited with full-function Internal Editor. String search is
available in all file windows. Most features are fully
configurable.
{COMMO} supports all display text modes, including 132 column
screens.
Split-screen Chat Mode. All program features are available while in
Chat Mode.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 3
Doorway Mode lets you operate remote applications with full use of
your screen and keyboard.
{COMMO}'s Auto Receive feature lets you configure any four strings
to automatically trigger any four macros. Thus any protocol with a
"signature" can be set to start automatically. Zmodem and MPt are
two examples that are pre-configured.
Support for any four serial ports. Port addresses and IRQ's are
configurable. Port speeds up to 115,200 bps (hardware dependent).
Support for NS16550A (or AF) buffered UART chip.
Serial port signal lights may be displayed on the status line,
including send and receive. Very useful with internal modems.
Scrollback buffer up to 64k bytes gives instant replay of the text
that has scrolled off the screen.
Capture Log saves all text from the screen to a disk file. Three
different capture modes are available.
Screen Image Save writes the current screen to a disk file.
Print Log writes all text from the screen to the printer.
Usage Log records date, time, length of call and other information
about each call. Date of last call can be saved in the Dialing
Directory.
Support for visually impaired users, including optional BIOS
Terminal Screen writes and special sounds when errors occur.
Enhanced keyboard support.
Extensive context-related Online Help.
And {COMMO} is elegant, easy to learn and fun to use!
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 4
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
-------------------------------------
The Best Way to Learn {COMMO} Quickly
-------------------------------------
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
1) Read the section "Getting Started" which will get you up and
running.
2) Read Appendix A "Setting Up Your Modem" for some very important
instructions regarding your specific hardware.
3) Read through the section "{COMMO} Key Commands" to familiarize
yourself with {COMMO}'s commands and features.
4) Use Online Help as a reference while you use {COMMO}.
How is it pronounced??? Just like "comma" (,) except for the last
letter. It's technical jargon for "communications."
===============
Getting Started
===============
Note: Refer to Appendix F for explanations of any error messages you
receive during your initial use of {COMMO}.
First make sure that all of the files from the {COMMO} package are
in one directory or on one diskette. Four of these files are
required to run the {COMMO} program:
COMMO.COM the Program File
COMMO.CFG the Configuration File
COMMO.FON the Dialing Directory File
COMMO.MAC the Macro File
In addition, if Online Help is used (recommended):
COMMO.HLP the Online Help File
There are two ways to make sure that {COMMO} will be able to find
all of its files. The first method is the simplest and should be
used if you are not too familiar with DOS commands:
1) Make sure you are logged into the directory or disk drive where
the files are located. Then simply type "commo" at the DOS
prompt. If your files are in the directory "C:\COMMO" you would
type:
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 5
c:<cr>
cd \commo<cr>
commo<cr>
(<cr> is the [Enter] or Return key)
Or if the files are on a diskette in drive A you would type:
a:<cr>
commo<cr>
{COMMO} will remember where the files are, so you will be able to
change directory or drive later without concern.
2) The second method is a little more advanced, but allows you to
run {COMMO} no matter what directory or drive you are currently
logged into:
Use the SET command in DOS to store the {COMMO} path into the
"environment." If you place this command in your AUTOEXEC.BAT
file you won't have to change directories or diskettes to run
{COMMO}. If your files are in the directory "C:\COMMO" the
command would be:
set commo=c:\commo
If the files are on the diskette in drive B the command would be:
set commo=b:
Do not use any extra spaces in the SET command. And remember to
place the {COMMO} directory or drive in your PATH command.
IMPORTANT: Be sure to check your "set commo=" command if you
install {COMMO} into a different directory or onto another drive
(or if you install a later release of the program). If it points
to the wrong directory, {COMMO} will not operate properly. This
is a common error and can cause a lot of head scratching.
====================
Command Line Options
====================
_______________
Dialing Strings
_______________
Dialing Strings may be placed before any command line switches.
{COMMO} will search the Dialing Directory for each string and mark
the first entry where a match is found (case is ignored).
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 6
The strings may consist of any part of a Dialing Directory entry
line (including passwords) and may be separated by commas or spaces.
The following characters may not appear in a command line Dialing
String: space, comma, slash (/).
After entries in the Dialing Directory are marked, {COMMO} will
check for a Startup Macro (see below). If no valid macro-id is
present Multi Number Dialing of the marked systems will begin. If a
macro is present it will be started instead.
The Modem Initialization String will be sent before dialing begins
unless the switch "/I=no" is present on the command line.
Examples:
commo telegodzilla joes-bbs 4567
commo zilla,joes,4567
IMPORTANT: Your modem should be turned on and ready to receive the
Modem Initialization String before starting the program.
________
Switches
________
Case is ignored and the switches may be in any order (Dialing
Strings must be first, however). The alternate forms without the
"=" must be used if switches are to be passed as batch file
parameters ("=" acts as a delimiter on the command line).
/C=filename or /Cfilename default: COMMO.CFG
Alternate Configuration File. The alternate file must reside in the
{COMMO} home directory.
/I=[yes/no] or /I[yes/no] default: none
This switch may be used to inhibit the Modem Initialization when
Dialing Strings and/or a Startup Macro are present: "/I=no."
It may also be used to bypass the question "Initialize modem?" on
the Initialization Screen: "/I=yes" or "/I=no."
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 7
/M=macro-id or /Mmacro-id default: none
Startup Macro. The "macro-id" is a three character macro
identifier. If the macro is found in the Macro File it will be
started. If the macro is not found the switch will be ignored.
The Modem Initialization String will be sent before starting the
macro unless the switch "/I=no" is present on the command line.
Example:
commo joes zilla /c=other.cfg /m=abc
Two systems will be marked in the Dialing Directory. The alternate
Configuration File "other.cfg" will be used (it must be located in
the {COMMO} home directory). The macro "abc" will be started if it
exists in the Macro File.
=====================
{COMMO} Support Files
=====================
The {COMMO} files are standard ASCII text files and may be modified
with any editor (or word processor in "non-document" mode). In
addition all but the Online Help File may be edited with {COMMO}'s
Internal Editor.
Key definitions for the Internal Editor are given in Online Help. A
Color Chart will be displayed in the editor when F10 is pressed
(useful in the Configuration File and for the DISPlay function in
the Macro File).
NOTE: {COMMO} generally retains the files in memory during program
operation. If you use an external editor to modify them while in
the Shell to DOS (or using the EXEC macro function), your changes
could be lost. See "Saving the Support Files" below.
Following is a brief description of each file.
1) COMMO.CFG. The Configuration File contains settings for many
important parameters. The first time you run {COMMO} you should
use the Alt-G key command to edit this file to your own needs.
See "Alt-G Configuration File" for details on each item.
2) COMMO.FON. The Dialing Directory File. This file contains
information about the systems you will be calling, including the
telephone numbers, passwords, macro link and serial port
parameters. Use the Alt-D key command to dial numbers and to
edit this file. Details are given in the section "Alt-D Dialing
Directory."
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 8
3) COMMO.MAC. The Macro File. Use the Alt-M key command to select
a macro for execution and to edit this file. A complete
description of {COMMO} macros is given in the section
"Programming {COMMO} Macros" in this document. A summary of
macro functions and key designators is also given in Online Help.
4) COMMO.HLP. The Online Help File. This file contains the
information for {COMMO}'s context-related Online Help. See "How
to Use Online Help" later in this document.
Saving the Support Files
========================
Whenever a change is made to any support file (by {COMMO} or by
you), the internal change flag is set for that file. Changed files
will automatically be saved to disk whenever necessary, usually when
you exit the program.
You may press Alt-F in the Internal Editor to immediately save any
file.
If you do not wish to save your changes to the Dialing Directory or
Macro File, you may press Alt-Q while in the Internal Editor. This
will reset {COMMO}'s change flag and the file will not be saved when
exiting the program. Any subsequent changes to the file will set
the change flag again.
========================
Initialization Procedure
========================
When {COMMO} begins running it will process the Configuration File.
Then it will attempt to load into memory:
(1) the Dialing Directory COMMO.FON
(2) the Macro File COMMO.MAC
Any problems encountered will be reported. These problems must be
corrected before restarting the program.
Automatic modem initialization will occur if Dialing Strings are
present (and matches are found), or if the Startup Macro Switch is
present (see "Command Line Options").
Otherwise you will be asked if you want to initialize your modem.
Answer "yes" unless you are already on line.
Please note that {COMMO} does NOT change the video display mode.
Instead {COMMO} can adapt to any text mode that is set when the
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 9
program is started. Check the items under "Video and Chat Mode" in
the Configuration File for details. See also the section "[Alt-G]
Configuration File" later in this document.
If the display does not look right try executing the DOS command
"mode co80" or "mode bw80" prior to calling {COMMO}.
===============
Terminal Screen
===============
The Terminal Screen allows you to see the characters coming in from
the serial port. Any characters that you type will be sent out to
the serial port. If you are connected to another system you will be
interacting with that system.
Keep in mind that you will also be interacting with {COMMO} and with
your own computer via key commands (Alt keys, for example). These
key commands have no effect on the remote system unless they cause
characters to be sent to the serial port (pressing Alt-P to send
your password, for example).
====================
{COMMO} Key Commands
====================
The Alt Keys shown in this section are the built-in default key
assignments for the various {COMMO} commands. Once you are familiar
with these commands you may use the Macro Processor to reassign any
of the keys.
Keys used within the various command windows are properly detailed
in Online Help. Please press Alt-H from any command window to
invoke {COMMO}'s context-related help system.
Note that certain features are only available as macro functions.
Read the section "Programming {COMMO} Macros" for details.
======================
[Alt-A] ASCII Upload
======================
This command is used to send prepared messages or any text files to
the remote system. Enter the pathname of the file you wish to send.
There is no special error checking associated with ASCII Upload. It
is intended primarily for sending message responses and other short
text files. For longer files, binary files or compressed files
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 10
(.ARC, .ZIP) you will want to use error checking protocols such as
Zmodem or MPt. See "Uploading / Downloading."
A number of parameters are used to control an ASCII Upload:
___________
Line Pacing
___________
IMPORTANT: Line Pacing is used to keep transmitted data synchronized
with received (echoed) data and is normally used ONLY when the
remote is sending a prompt for each line, usually "nn:" or "nn?".
"nn" is a line number and ":" or "?" is the prompt or "pacing
character."
{COMMO} will wait up to 5 seconds for the pacing character, then
send the next line. If there is a 5 second delay between the
sending of each line, then either you have the wrong pacing
character or you don't need line pacing (you don't need it when
using a full-screen editor, for example).
At any time, the Spacebar may be pressed to force transmission of
the next line. This is very useful when you have set the wrong
pacing character or if you wish to send each line manually. In the
latter case, use any pacing character that is different from the one
in the line prompt.
To use line pacing, enter the pacing character when {COMMO} asks for
it in the ASCII Upload window.
The initial pacing character is configurable. See "[Alt-G]
Configuration File."
The pacing character may be any character including control
characters, e.g. "^m" or "|" for carriage return. See Appendix D
for details on how to represent special characters.
See also Appendix C "Flow Control."
________________
Character Pacing
________________
You may insert a delay between each character using the Inter-
Character Delay feature. This should only be used when the remote
is so slow that characters are dropped. See "Set Terminal
Parameters" for details.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 11
___________________
Stripping Linefeeds
___________________
Normally you will want to strip linefeeds from your outgoing text.
This will appear to the remote as if you are typing the data. But
if all your data displays on the same line at the remote, then you
must configure {COMMO} to send the linefeeds.
Note: This is a Configuration File item.
_____________________
Expanding Blank Lines
_____________________
You may configure {COMMO} to send a space character whenever a blank
line is encountered in the text file you are sending. This will
prevent your message from terminating prematurely if you are sending
to a BBS message editor. Blank line expansion is not normally
required when sending to a "full screen" BBS editor.
Note: This is a Configuration File item.
===========================
[Alt-B] Send Break Signal
===========================
A one second Break Signal will be sent. This signal is used by some
systems to interrupt certain operations, such as continuous output.
======================
[Alt-C] Clear Screen
======================
The Terminal Screen will be cleared and the current colors will be
set to the Configuration File defaults.
===========================
[Alt-D] Dialing Directory
===========================
The Dialing Directory is your data base of telephone numbers. From
the directory window you can select numbers to dial and also update
the directory using the Internal Editor.
Refer to Online Help for a complete description of the commands
available in the Dialing Directory window.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 12
_______________________________
Dialing Directory Entry Example
_______________________________
System Telephone System Linked Serial Port Last
Name Number Password Macro Parameters Called
_____________ __________ _________ _____ ____________ ________
File City BBS {555-1234} {aardvark} {abc} {2400,8n1,1} 05/20/90
IMPORTANT: Items in curly braces must be present (they are
positional). Items which are not used must have a null string {} as
a placeholder. You may omit null strings at the end of the line.
Directory entries are limited to one per line (up to 255
characters).
Comments may be placed anywhere outside the curly braces or on
separate lines.
______________________________
System Name File City BBS
______________________________
Up to 40 characters in length, it must NOT be enclosed in curly
braces. The System Name will be displayed on the Status Line
after connection, unless the Signal Lights option is selected.
It will also be part of a Usage Log entry if the log is enabled.
______________________________________
Telephone Number {1-707-555-1234}
______________________________________
Spaces and hyphens are ignored by most modems. The Dialing
Prefix, Telephone Number and Dialing Suffix are used to form a
dialing command. Refer to your modem manual for details on
dialing commands.
The Dialing Prefix may be chosen from a list of four in the
Configuration File and is indicated by #1,#2,#3 or #4. The
prefix code must appear right after the left curly brace:
{#2 1-707-555-1234} Use prefix 2
Dialing Prefix 1 is the default if none is specified.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 13
The Telephone Number is limited to 40 characters, excluding any
prefix code.
_________________________________
System Password {mypassword}
_________________________________
A different Password String may be defined for each system that
you call. Passwords may be up to 64 characters in length.
The Password String may be sent using Alt-P or by using the #
symbol in a SEND macro function.
Passwords are invisible in the Dialing Directory window, but
appear when you enter [E]dit mode.
Rules for writing passwords are in Appendix D.
_______________________
Linked Macro {abc}
_______________________
If a valid Linked Macro is specified, it will be started (as a
GOTO) when a connection is established with the remote system.
If no macro is specified (or the macro-id is invalid), {COMMO}
will enter the Terminal Screen.
________________________________________
Serial Port Parameters {2400,8n1,1}
________________________________________
{Speed,Format,Comport}
This item allows you to override the default settings for the
current call. Include only the parameters that are different
from the settings in your Configuration File.
For example you might have "{,7}", which would set the Data
Format to "7e1", but use the default settings for the other
parameters.
See "Set Terminal Parameters" for a complete description of each
field. See also "AutoBaud Detect."
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 14
_________________________
Last Called 05/20/90
_________________________
If this item is present, {COMMO} will replace it with the current
date whenever a connection is made with the system. It may
appear anywhere on the entry line (outside the curly braces).
Place "00/00/00" to start it. The Dialing Directory file will be
saved to disk when you exit {COMMO}.
See also "[Alt-U] Multi Number Dialing."
============================
[Alt-G] Configuration File
============================
Pressing Alt-G brings up the Configuration File in edit mode (see
"Internal Editor" in Online Help for details).
The Configuration File contains settings for many parameters used by
{COMMO}. Some of these are "initial" or "start" values only and are
controlled during a session with key commands. Others (marked with
a "*" in the sample file) may be changed for the current session
using the Internal Editor.
Each item in the Configuration File is enclosed in curly braces and
must be present even if the contents are "null." A null item would
look like this: {}. All text outside the curly braces is commentary
and is ignored by {COMMO}.
Explanation of items
====================
_________________________________________________________
1 * {2400,8n1,1}
Default Serial Port Parameters: {Speed,Format,Comport}
_________________________________________________________
These default values will be set at program startup and each time
dialing begins. Use the "Serial Port Parameters" item in the
Dialing Directory to set overrides for the current call. Use
Alt-L or the macro function PARMs to set parameters at other
times.
See "Set Terminal Parameters" for a complete description of each
field.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 15
_____________________________________________________
2 * {A} Default Terminal-Type (Ansi-bbs/Vt102/Tty)
_____________________________________________________
This default value will be set at program startup and each time
dialing begins. Use Alt-L or the macro function TERMinal to
change it at other times.
See "Set Terminal Parameters" for a complete description.
________________________________________________
3 * {0} Default Inter-Character Delay (0-999)
________________________________________________
This default value will be set at program startup and each time
dialing begins. Use Alt-L or the macro function DELAy to change
it at other times.
See "Set Terminal Parameters" for a complete description.
_____________________________________________
4 * {no} Drop DTR and RTS on exit (yes/no)
_____________________________________________
Leave this "no" if you want to exit {COMMO} and return while
still connected to a host. "Yes" will normally cause the modem
to hang up when exiting.
______________________________________________________
5 * {yes} Software (XON/XOFF) Flow Control (yes/no)
6 * {no} Hardware (RTS/CTS) Flow Control (yes/no)
______________________________________________________
These are used to control the flow of data between your computer
and the remote system. They prevent loss of data when one end
can send faster than the other end can process information. See
Appendix C for details.
__________________________________________
7 * {~AT S0=0 S7=180 E0 Q0 V1 X4 &C1 &D2 |}
Modem Init String (2400 bps and higher)
__________________________________________
This string (up to 128 characters) is normally sent to your modem
when {COMMO} is started or when you press Alt-O.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 16
If you are using a 1200 bps modem you should remove the "&C1 &D2"
commands. In either case the "X" command may have to be
adjusted. See Appendix A "Setting Up Your Modem."
___________________________________________
8 * {.z.,^xB00} Auto Receive, Zmodem
9 * {.m.,^v^h^vMPt} Auto Receive, MPt
10 * {.m.,^v^h^vPuma} Auto Receive, Puma
11 * {} Auto Receive
___________________________________________
The general form of this item is: {macro-id,string}. When the
specified string (up to 32 characters, case ignored) is received,
the macro will be started. These are normally used for
automatically starting downloads, but may be used to trigger any
macro upon receiving any string.
Set the item to null {} to disable it. Operates in Terminal Mode
only (use GOLOok/LOOKfor in macros).
___________________________________________________
12 * {} Com1 Port address and IRQ overrides.
13 * {} Com2 These are normally left blank.
14 * {} Com3 Refer to COMMO.DOC for
15 * {} Com4 important details.
___________________________________________________
Port I/O addresses and IRQ numbers are determined as follows:
If there is an address in the DOS port table for the requested
serial port, then that address will be used. Otherwise the
{COMMO} default address will be used. Default base addresses and
IRQ numbers for each port (in hex) are:
Com# Address IRQ
1 3f8 4
2 2f8 3
3 3e8 4
4 2e8 3
Port base address and/or IRQ no. may always be overridden. For
example to set Com4, port address = 238, IRQ = 5:
{238,5} Com4
Your serial adapter manual may give a range of addresses, for
example "3f8-3ff." Use the first value as the base address.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 17
After changing these with the Internal Editor you must use Alt-L
to re-initialize the port for the current session (just enter and
exit the Alt-L window and {COMMO} will make the necessary
adjustments).
___________________________________________________
16 {no} Start with AutoBaud Detect on (yes/no)
___________________________________________________
Determines the initial state of the AutoBaud toggle. See
"AutoBaud Detect."
________________________________________________________________
17 * {yes} Clear dialing marks when saving directory (yes/no)
________________________________________________________________
If this is "yes", dialing marks will not be written to disk when
saving the Dialing Directory file. Set it to "no" if you wish
the marks to be saved with the file (to be used in the next
session).
Note that changes to dialing marks (mark or unmark) will not
cause the file to be saved upon exit from {COMMO}. If no other
changes occur (such as Date Last Called), you must use Alt-F in
the Internal Editor to save the marks.
_____________________________________________
18 * {45} Dialing cycle time-out (seconds)
_____________________________________________
The maximum time to wait before hanging up and redialing. Adjust
if your modem needs more time to complete a call.
____________________________________________________
19 * {2} Delay between dialing attempts (seconds)
____________________________________________________
Amount of time to wait between dialing attempts. Adjust to give
incoming calls a greater chance of getting through.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 18
________________________________________________________________
20 * {CONNECT} Dialing success response(s)
21 * {BUSY,NO CARRIER,NO DIALTONE} Dialing failure response(s)
________________________________________________________________
These response codes can be found in your modem manual. Do not
include the speed in the CONNECT response if you are enabling
AutoBaud.
Responses are case sensitive. Maximum length of each response
set is 80 characters. There should be no null strings or extra
spaces.
_______________________________________________________
22 * {ATDT} Dial Prefix #1 (default) see Online Help
23 * {} Dial Prefix #2
24 * {} Dial Prefix #3
25 * {} Dial Prefix #4
26 * {|} Dial Suffix
_______________________________________________________
These strings (up to 32 characters each) are used to create the
dialing command. The prefix, telephone number and suffix will be
strung together in that order and sent to your modem.
Any one of the four prefixes may be selected in the telephone
number string (see "Dialing Directory"). The default is #1.
Use "ATDP" if you don't have a tone line. Use "ATDT9," to get an
outside line on a switchboard. The suffix is usually just a
carriage return (|). Your modem manual has additional tips on
dialing prefixes and suffixes.
__________________________________________
27 * {c:\commo} Path to find uploads
28 * {c:\commo} Path to place downloads
__________________________________________
The upload path will appear in the ASCII Upload window and will
also be substituted for "%u" in EXECute macro functions.
The download path will be substituted for "%d" in EXECute macro
functions.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 19
______________________________________________________________
29 {c:\commo\commo.cap} Pathname for initial Capture File
______________________________________________________________
If a filename only (no path) is specified, the current directory
will be used. The Capture File pathname is substituted for "%c"
in EXECute macro functions. See also "Capture File Options."
_________________________________________
30 {c:\commo\commo.scn}
Pathname for initial Screen Image file
_________________________________________
Information is appended to this file when you use the "Screen
Image Save" function or when you write to a disk file in the
"Scrollback" function. See the sections on these functions for
details.
If a filename only (no path) is specified, the current directory
will be used. The pathname of an open Capture File is not
allowed.
___________________________________________________
31 * {c:\commo\commo.log} Pathname for Usage Log
___________________________________________________
The Usage Log keeps a record of all the calls you make. If a
valid pathname is specified, entries will be made automatically
when you connect to a system and when you disconnect (or exit
{COMMO}).
IMPORTANT! In order for the log to function properly your modem
must be set to provide "true carrier detect" (see Appendix A).
Use a null pathname {} to disable the Usage Log. The Usage Log
should be disabled when you are connecting directly to another
computer (with a null modem cable).
Specify the same log file as your external protocol driver (e.g.,
DSZ.LOG or MPT.LOG) and you will have a complete record of your
calls, including upload/download statistics.
If a filename only (no path) is specified, the current directory
will be used. The pathname of an open Capture File is not
allowed.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 20
_________________________________________
32 * {yes} Expand blank lines (yes/no)
33 * {yes} Strip linefeeds (yes/no)
34 {} Startup pacing character
_________________________________________
See "ASCII Upload" for details on these items.
__________________________________________________
35 {no} Default to Dialing Directory (yes/no)
__________________________________________________
If this is set to "yes" the Dialing Directory will be entered
when {COMMO} is started.
______________________________________________
36 {no} Start with Local Echo on (yes/no)
______________________________________________
If this is set to "yes" Local Echo will be on when {COMMO} is
started. See "Local Echo."
_________________________________________________
37 {no} Start with Signal Lights on (yes/no)
_________________________________________________
If this is set to "yes" Signal Lights will be on when {COMMO} is
started. See "Signal Lights Display."
__________________________________________________
38 {no} Start with Capture File open (yes/no)
__________________________________________________
If this is set to "yes" Capture will be open when {COMMO} is
started. See "Capture File Options."
_________________________________________________________
39 * {screen} Startup Capture Mode (screen/filter/raw)
_________________________________________________________
See "Capture File Options" for a description of each mode.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 21
________________________________________________
40 * {no} Test for enhanced keyboard (yes/no)
________________________________________________
Set this to "yes" if your system supports the enhanced (101 key)
keyboard. This will enable you to assign F11, F12 and a number
of other keys to your macros. See "Table of {COMMO} Key-id's".
___________________________________________________________
41 * {yes} Display time of day with System Name (yes/no)
___________________________________________________________
If this is "yes" only the first 30 characters of the System Name
will be displayed on the Status Line. The time will be displayed
in the remaining space. If "no" the System Name will be
displayed in 40 characters.
_________________________________________________
42 {yes} Start with Master Sound on (yes/no)
_________________________________________________
If this is set to "yes" sound will be on when {COMMO} is started.
See "Sound Control."
_______________________________________________
43 * {yes} Dialing connection alarm (yes/no)
_______________________________________________
Controls the alarm signalling a connection when Auto Dialing is
used.
__________________________________________________
44 * {yes} ASCII Upload finished alarm (yes/no)
__________________________________________________
Controls the alarm signalling that an ASCII Upload has completed.
_________________________________________________
45 * {3} Maximum number of alarm rings (1-999)
_________________________________________________
Sets the number of times the alarm will ring. You may press a
key at any time to stop the alarm.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 22
_______________________________________________________
46 {10} Scrollback buffer size in kilobytes (0-64)
_______________________________________________________
The actual minimum size of the buffer (which {COMMO} will
compute) depends on the number of screen lines. For a 25 line
screen it will be around 4k bytes -- it will be larger for
screens with more lines. This includes room to save the current
screen.
Setting the size to 0 disables the Scrollback feature. See
"Scrollback" for details.
_____________________________________________________________
47 * {no} Snow checking on CGA adapter (yes/no)
48 * {no} Use BIOS for Terminal Screen scrolling (yes/no)
49 * {no} Use BIOS for Terminal Screen output (yes/no)
_____________________________________________________________
Change these video parameters only if necessary.
o Snow checking will slow the display somewhat, but will help
to eliminate the "snow" effect on CGA monitors.
o BIOS scrolling enables external scrollback programs to work,
but is slower and may cause "flicker" in certain displays.
o The Terminal Screen BIOS display is intended primarily for
use with speech synthesizers (enabling blind users to "see"
the computer display). This also slows the display.
____________________________________________________________
50 {no} Auto-detect number of rows and columns (yes/no)
____________________________________________________________
{COMMO} will support 25 to 127 rows and 80 to 255 columns on the
display, but you MUST set the display into the proper mode before
starting the program (EGA/VGA adapters usually come with
utilities to set modes such as 50x80, 44x132, etc.).
Set this item to "yes" if you want {COMMO} to automatically
obtain the current number of rows and columns from the system.
Most systems provide this information. If the display is
unsatisfactory, you may have to set it to "no."
Note: The cursor may not display properly in 43 line mode. This
is a problem with some EGA adapters.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 23
______________________________________________________
51 * {18} Number of lines in upper Chat Mode window
______________________________________________________
This allows you to adjust the line "split" in Chat Mode. The
minimum number of lines in the upper or lower window is three.
_____________________________________________________________
52 * {no} Send when Enter is pressed in Chat Mode (yes/no)
_____________________________________________________________
If "no" {COMMO} will send each character as you type it. If
"yes" {COMMO} will wait until you press Enter, then send all that
you have typed.
____________________________________________
53 * {no} Enable mono attributes (yes/no)
____________________________________________
If this is "no" the default mono attributes will be used. Set it
to "yes" if you want to set your own monochrome attributes
(colors). This has no effect on color displays.
__________________________________________________
54 * {07} Terminal Screen colors
55 * {17} File window text colors
56 * {70} File window border colors
57 * {3f} File window cursor colors
58 * {70} Small window text colors
59 * {17} Small window border colors
60 * {17} Status Line colors
__________________________________________________
Press F10 in the Configuration File window to pop up the color
chart. You may use it with color or monochrome displays.
Note: For the most accurate ANSI-BBS or VT102 terminal
emulation, the Terminal Screen colors should be set to {07}. In
many cases, {COMMO} uses this color when clearing portions of the
screen or when a "reset attributes" sequence is received from the
host.
"File windows" are full-screen windows such as the Dialing
Directory, Macro File, Scrollback Buffer, etc. "Small windows"
are the pop up windows such as Capture File Options or ASCII
Upload.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 24
Colors should be set so that the different parts of the screen
contrast with each other. For example the Status Line should be
easily discernable from the rest of the Terminal Screen. And the
borders and Selector Bar should stand out against the text
portion of the various windows.
================================
[Alt-H] How to Use Online Help
================================
A summary of {COMMO}'s operations is available by pressing Alt-H.
The Online Help support file, COMMO.HLP, must be in the {COMMO} home
directory or you will get an error message, "Unable to open Help
file."
This message will also be issued if there is not enough memory to
load the Online Help file. Note that the file is retained in memory
until {COMMO} requires memory for some other program function. It
will automatically be re-read when necessary.
Once the Help window is entered you will see the Help control keys
listed at the bottom of the screen. At this point you may obtain
more detailed information about using Online Help by typing "H".
Modifying the Help File
=======================
When you are familiar with {COMMO} you may wish to reduce the size
of the Help File. Feel free to edit this file with an external
editor -- you can even set up your own menu. The search keys are
the bars separating the topics. The two digit number in the middle
of the bar may be changed to create your own key.
The HELP macro function enables you to assign a key to go directly
to any topic in Online Help. For example:
{cf6} {help 12} {}
will go to topic 12 when Ctrl-F6 is pressed.
If you change the Help File, remember to keep a backup copy of the
original.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 25
===========================
[Alt-I] Screen Image Save
===========================
The Screen Image Save is used to append all of the text currently on
the screen to a disk file. This is sometimes handier than
repeatedly opening and closing the Capture File.
TIPS on using Screen Image Save:
The pathname may not be the same as the pathname of an open
Capture File.
If the file cannot be opened, the old pathname is retained.
Note: The current Screen Image Save file is also used to save
blocks of text in the Scrollback feature.
See also "Capture File Options" and "Scrollback."
====================
[Alt-K] Scrollback
====================
Scrollback allows you to see what was previously on your screen.
Screen data is saved to a memory buffer (the size is defined in the
Configuration File). Set the size to 0 to disable the feature
entirely.
A number of commands are available in Scrollback:
1) You may navigate as in the Online Help file -- scroll up/down,
page up/down, beginning/end of buffer, etc.
2) Use the String Search feature available in all {COMMO} file
windows.
3) Change the Screen Image Save pathname.
4) Write any part of the Scrollback buffer to the current Screen
Image Save file.
5) Exit and return to the same place the next time you call
Scrollback.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 26
=================================
[Alt-L] Set Terminal Parameters
=================================
Lets you change the current Data Rate, Data Format, Serial Port,
Terminal Emulation Type and Inter-Character Delay.
Press Alt-L to temporarily change the parameters from the Terminal
Screen (these will be set to Configuration File defaults or Dialing
Directory overrides when dialing begins). Observe your changes on
the left side of the Status Line.
The Terminal Parameters affect the transmission of data to and from
your computer.
Parameter Descriptions
======================
_____
Speed
_____
The rate at which data travels between your computer and the remote
system. It is specified as "bits per second" or "bps." Allowable
values are 300, 600, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200, 38400, 57600,
115200. These may be abbreviated to the first two characters in
Serial Port Parameter strings.
See "AutoBaud Detect" for more information on setting the Speed.
___________
Data Format
___________
This consists of three parts. Allowable values are:
character length: 7, 8
parity: [n]one, [e]ven, [o]dd, [m]ark, [s]pace
stop-bits: 1, 2
Examples:
7o2 7 bit characters, odd parity, 2 stop bits
8m1 8 bit characters, mark parity, 1 stop bit
The most common formats, "8n1" and "7e1", may be abbreviated to "8"
and "7" in parameter strings, such as:
{2400,8,1}
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 27
___________
Serial Port
___________
The channel your computer uses to talk to the outside world. May be
1, 2, 3 or 4 (for Com1, Com2, Com3 or Com4).
_______________________
Terminal Emulation Type
_______________________
{COMMO} supports the following terminal types:
ANSI-BBS (A) for calling most bulletin board systems
VT102 (V) for calling certain mainframes and online services
TTY (T) for turning off almost all control functions (lets
you see ANSI control sequences).
_____________________
Inter-Character Delay
_____________________
This factor defines the amount of delay to insert between characters
transmitted by the SEND macro function and by ASCII Upload. Use
only when the remote is too slow to process the data (drops
characters).
Each unit is about 5 thousandths of a second (5 ms) on a 4.77 MHz XT
class machine. Faster machines require higher values -- on a 12 MHz
AT each unit will only be about 1 ms.
For example, to delay 20 ms between characters (50 cps) use a factor
of:
4 on 4.77 MHz XT
16 on 12 MHz AT
27 on 20 MHz 386
The factor will also vary when you use multi-tasking software, so
adjust as necessary. The maximum delay allowed is one second.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 28
Setting Terminal Parameters
===========================
__________________________
With the Alt-L Key Command
__________________________
Alt-L may be used at any time to change parameters temporarily.
Remember that parameters will be reset to the Configuration File
defaults whenever dialing begins.
_________________________
In the Configuration File
_________________________
Set the default items (Serial Port Parameters, Terminal-Type, Inter-
Character Delay) to establish values that will be used at program
startup and when dialing begins.
________________________
In the Dialing Directory
________________________
Serial Port Parameters may be specified in a Dialing Directory entry
to override the default settings. Specify only values that are
different. For example:
{,,3} Different serial port is required for this call
{,8o2} Unusual format
________________________________________________
Using the Macro functions PARMs, TERMinal, DELAy
________________________________________________
Use these to set parameters during macro execution -- to set a
Terminal-Type during a login macro, for example. See "Programming
{COMMO} Macros."
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 29
=========================
[Alt-M] Macro Processor
=========================
The Macro Processor executes and maintains {COMMO} macros. See the
section "Programming {COMMO} Macros" which shows you how easily you
can automate program operations, link to external protocols (for
Uploading/Downloading), assign keys and perform a myriad of other
functions. The Macro File is maintained with the Internal Editor.
See Online Help for details on operations within the Macro Processor
window.
==========================================
[Alt-O] Send Modem Initialization String
==========================================
Pressing Alt-O at any time from the Terminal Screen will cause the
modem initialization string to be sent to the modem. This is useful
if your modem was powered off or if the modem setup was changed.
===============================
[Alt-P] Send Current Password
===============================
Each entry in the Dialing Directory can have its own Password
String. After dialing a number, the Alt-P key command will send the
current Password String to the remote system.
For additional details on Passwords see "Dialing Directory."
=============================
[Alt-Q] Quit Call (hang up)
=============================
Quits the call by dropping DTR. This will put the modem "on-hook"
if response to DTR is enabled (see Appendix A). If your modem does
not respond properly, you may define a macro to send a "hang-up"
command. For modems using the "AT" command set the macro would look
like this:
{nf0} {send ~~~+++~~~ATH|} {} Press F10 to hangup
Of course, you may assign this macro to any key you like.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 30
======================
[Alt-S] Shell to DOS
======================
When you Shell to DOS {COMMO} remains resident in memory and you may
perform any DOS functions as you normally do. Since {COMMO} is
small in size, most of your memory is available when you use this
key command.
==============================
[Alt-U] Multi Number Dialing
==============================
Any number of entries may be "marked" in the Dialing Directory, then
automatically dialed in sequence until a connection is established.
Multi Number Dialing may be initiated in one of four ways:
1) Bring up the Dialing Directory window with Alt-D, then move the
Selector Bar to each desired entry and press [Space] (repeat the
procedure to unmark an entry). Press Alt-U to begin dialing at
the location of the Selector Bar.
2) Specify entries with Dialing Strings on the command line used to
run {COMMO} (see "Command Line Options"). Specified entries will
be marked and dialed in sequence when {COMMO} is started.
3) Specify entries with Dialing Strings in a macro, using the MARK
function (see "Programming {COMMO} Macros").
4) Press Alt-U from the Terminal Screen. Dialing of marked entries
will resume with the next system in the sequence.
To automatically resume Multi Number Dialing at the end of a Linked
Macro, you should use a sequence such as:
... {setlook 60} {lookfor ^jNO CARRIER^m} {dial ,} {}
See also "[Alt-D] Dialing Directory" and the DIAL function under
"Programming {COMMO} Macros."
===========================
[Alt-X] Exit from {COMMO}
===========================
This key command will cause {COMMO} to terminate. You may configure
{COMMO} to leave DTR high when exiting so that you may exit and
remain connected to a system (this is the default, see
"Configuration File"). Then if you re-enter {COMMO} you would
answer "no" to the question about initializing your modem.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 31
Alt-X may also be pressed from the Dialing Directory or Macro File
windows for a quick exit.
==============================
[Alt-1] Capture File Options
==============================
When Capture is OPEN all information written to your screen will be
saved to the designated disk file. This command allows you to:
1) OPEN/CLOSE the Capture File.
2) Change to a different file.
3) Change the Capture Mode.
Data may be captured in one of three modes. The startup Capture
Mode is selected in the Configuration File.
If the mode is set to SCREEN, data will be captured exactly as it
appears on the Terminal Screen. This mode greatly improves the
appearance of screens drawn with ANSI positioning sequences
(animation).
FILTER mode is used primarily when you need to capture lines
longer than the width of the screen (e.g., to be printed on a
wide carriage printer). ANSI controls will still be stripped out
if ANSI-BBS or VT102 emulation is on.
Use RAW mode when you want all data captured exactly as it comes
from the serial port. ANSI control sequences will not be
stripped and length of lines will be preserved. This mode can be
used to capture ANSI animation and color to be "played back"
later.
TIPS on using the Capture File:
IMPORTANT: When capturing to a floppy drive, the diskette should
not be removed until the Capture File is closed (this also
applies if the "disk full" message appears). DOS is unaware of a
disk change and may overwrite the replacement disk.
The old file will be closed if a new file is opened.
If Capture Mode is set to SCREEN, text will be saved as it
scrolls OFF the screen. To prevent loss of data, the entire
screen will be saved in the following situations:
(1) whenever the screen is cleared
(2) Capture is closed with Alt-1
(3) {COMMO} is terminated
(4) the mode is changed from SCREEN to FILTER or RAW
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 32
If Capture Mode is set to FILTER or RAW, text will be saved as it
arrives from the serial port.
See also "Screen Image Save."
==========================
[Alt-2] Print Log Toggle
==========================
Turns the Print Log ON/OFF. When ON all information written to your
screen will be printed to LPT1. Handy for getting hard-copy of file
lists, messages, etc.
TIPS on using the Print Log:
Text is printed as it scrolls OFF the screen.
To prevent loss of data, the entire screen will be printed in the
following situations:
(1) whenever the screen is cleared
(2) Print Log is turned off with Alt-2
(3) {COMMO} is terminated
Flow Control should be used if your printer cannot keep up with the
incoming data (see Appendix C).
==============================
[Alt-3] Sound Control Toggle
==============================
This is the Master Sound Control toggle. When sound is OFF all
alarms, sounds and beeps will be silenced. Alarms are individually
controlled with items in the Configuration File and with the "%a"
parameter in EXECute macro functions.
=========================
[Alt-4] AutoBaud Toggle
=========================
AutoBaud Detect enables {COMMO} to automatically adjust to the line
speed of the system you are calling, thus relieving you from having
to hang up and call back when you get the wrong speed.
TIPS on using AutoBaud:
Your modem must be set to return the connection speed responses
such as "CONNECT 1200" (see Appendix A "Setting Up Your Modem").
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 33
The default serial port speed in the Configuration File should be
set to your modem's highest speed.
____________________
Most 2400 bps modems
____________________
Toggle AutoBaud Detect to the ON state (uppercase "B" on the Status
Line). Set the default speed in the Configuration File to 2400. The
following result-codes will cause the indicated actions:
CONNECT 2400 --> serial port remains at 2400 bps
CONNECT 1200 --> serial port adjusted to 1200 bps
CONNECT --> serial port adjusted to 300 bps
_________________
High-speed modems
_________________
Most high-speed modems require that the serial port be "locked" at
19200 bps or 38400 bps. The modem will then automatically adjust to
the line (modem-to-modem) speed. In this case AutoBaud must be
turned OFF to prevent {COMMO} from changing the serial port speed.
Some of these modems may also be operated such that the serial port
must be adjusted to the speed given in the CONNECT message. In this
case follow the instructions for 2400 bps modems above.
===========================
[Alt-5] Local Echo Toggle
===========================
Local Echo (sometimes called half-duplex) is normally used when you
connect to a host that does not echo what you type. {COMMO} will
assume that the host is sending a linefeed with each carriage
return.
Typed characters will be displayed directly to the screen.
==============================
[Alt-0] Signal Lights Toggle
==============================
Turns ON/OFF the "modem lights" display on the status line. Shows
the state of the RS-232C signals, including send/receive.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 34
This toggles the right half of the Status Line from the System Name
to the Signal Lights Display. See "What is on the Status Line" in
Online Help for a complete description of the Status Line
indicators.
==========================
[Alt--] Chat Mode Toggle (Alt minus)
==========================
Chat Mode is normally used when you wish to converse via keyboard.
The screen will be split with the upper portion showing what the
remote is sending, while the lower portion shows what you type.
The method used to send typed characters is set in the Configuration
File under the section "Video and Chat Mode." The two possible
methods are:
1) Each character is sent as you type it. This method is
normally used when you are chatting with another person who
is also in Chat Mode.
2) All characters are sent at once when you press Enter (up to
240 characters will be buffered). Use this method when you
are using a teleconferencing system or "CB Simulator."
The number of lines in the upper and lower portions of the screen
(the "line split") may also be set in the "Video and Chat Mode"
section.
TIPS on using Chat Mode:
Alt-- (Alt minus) is used to enter AND exit Chat Mode.
All {COMMO} functions are available in Chat Mode except Doorway
Mode.
=============================
[Alt-=] Doorway Mode Toggle
=============================
Definition: "Extended keys" are function keys, Alt keys, cursor
keys, etc. In other words, keys that do not generate ASCII
characters.
In Doorway Mode all extended keys will send their key codes to the
remote (instead of activating {COMMO} functions). Thus Doorway Mode
can be used to operate most application software on the remote
system when used with a host program such as Marshall Dudley's
Doorway. In addition some BBS full-screen editors use Doorway Mode.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 35
TIPS on using Doorway Mode:
The Alt-= key is necessarily reserved for exiting Doorway Mode
and thus cannot be sent to the remote. Be sure to configure
remote applications accordingly.
The display should be set to the number of lines expected by the
host program. Usually this is 25 lines of text. If your display
is not in the proper mode, the results will be unpredictable.
The Status Line is normally suppressed in Doorway Mode, but may
be turned on by using the "s" parameter in a macro:
{al=} {doorway s} {}
The "s" parameter is ignored when exiting Doorway Mode and the
Status Line will be restored to its previous state. Remember
that when the Status Line is on, there is one less usable line on
the Terminal Screen.
If it is necessary to clear the screen or to reset the terminal
mode parameters when starting Doorway Mode, use a macro. For
example:
{al=} {clear} {term a} {doorway} {}
This macro will execute when entering or exiting Doorway Mode
(Alt-= must be used to exit, but any key may be assigned to enter
Doorway Mode).
For most applications you will want Terminal-Type set to
ANSI-BBS. It's a good idea to enter Doorway Mode before starting
the host program. The host may send commands to initialize the
terminal.
If Software Flow Control is enabled, the ASCII character values
17 and 19 (XON and XOFF) will not display. If these characters
are needed, Software Flow Control must be turned off.
=======================
Uploading / Downloading
=======================
ASCII Upload is the only file transfer protocol internal to {COMMO}.
The Macro Processor enables you to execute external protocol
"driver" programs with ease and rapidity.
The Macro File is pre-configured with macros that execute various
popular protocol drivers, including DSZ.COM which performs Xmodem,
Ymodem and Zmodem uploads and downloads. Use the Alt-M key command
to select one of these macros. You may add macros for any other
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 36
protocol drivers that you need. See "Programming {COMMO} Macros"
for details on writing macros.
Installing DSZ.COM
==================
DSZ is a Shareware program from Omen Technology and is highly
recommended for fast and reliable file transfers. Like {COMMO} it
must be registered for continued use. DSZ may almost always be
obtained from the source where you obtained {COMMO} and is usually
archived as DSZmmdd.ZIP (mmdd is a release date).
To install DSZ just place DSZ.COM in a directory which is specified
in your DOS path statement. If you don't have a path statement in
your AUTOEXEC.BAT file, place DSZ.COM in your C:\COMMO directory.
Be sure to change to this directory before you start {COMMO}.
MPT.EXE may be installed in a similar fashion for doing MPt (Puma)
transfers.
{COMMO} Auto Receive
====================
This feature will automatically start a macro when a specified
string is received from the serial port and is normally used for
starting downloads.
Up to four strings and respective macro-id's may be defined in the
"Terminal and Modem" section of the Configuration File. These are
preconfigured for the Zmodem and MPt protocol "signature" strings,
but you may change them or add new ones as desired.
Once you have installed the DSZ.COM or MPT.EXE programs (see above)
you must change the macro-id's in the Macro File. These are
initialized to {zzz} and {mmm} to prevent {COMMO} from trying to
execute programs that aren't there. Just press Alt-M and change:
{zzz} to {.z.} for Zmodem AutoDownload
{mmm} to {.m.} for MPt (Puma) Auto-Start
Don't change them until you have installed the respective programs.
{COMMO} will execute the macro as soon as the signature string is
received (be patient, a BBS may take several seconds to load and
execute the protocol program).
If you have not properly installed the protocol program, the message
"Bad command or file name" will be periodically displayed by DOS.
If this happens type Ctrl-X several times to abort the sender and
cancel the transfer.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 37
TIPS on using Auto Receive:
Auto Receive will not trigger when any macro is running. It may
trigger when the macro stops, but keep in mind that characters
displayed during macro functions are not buffered. Most
functions do not display characters; this includes SEND.
The serial port input buffer will be cleared following any EXEC,
EXEN or EXED that is part of an Auto Receive macro. This
prevents repeated signature strings from triggering the macro
more than once.
If you need to download within a macro, you should do a LOOKfor
to wait for the signature string, then CALL the download macro
(make sure you have a RETUrn at the end).
Using short strings, such as "^E" for CIS B protocol may result
in unexpected triggering of the macro. This is because other
systems may send the same string for a different purpose (to
display a "club" symbol, for example). Thus it may be necessary
to disable a string at times or to discontinue its use.
A string may be disabled by removing the corresponding macro-id
in the Macro File, but this degrades performance since the Macro
File must be scanned each time a "hit" occurs. Instead the
Configuration File item should be replaced with a null {}.
An Auto Receive string can be used to automatically continue
Multi Number Dialing after you disconnect (in manual mode). Set
one of the strings to:
{ncd,^jNO CARRIER^m}
Then enter a macro in the Macro File:
{ncd} {dial ,} {}
When your modem sends "NO CARRIER" the macro will start and Multi
Number Dialing will resume if any more systems are marked in the
Dialing Directory.
See also "TIPS on creating LOOKfor strings" in the section
describing the LOOKfor function.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 38
==========================
Programming {COMMO} Macros
==========================
IMPORTANT: Please read the next few pages before you attempt to
write any macros! The rules for writing {COMMO} macros are few in
number, but must be followed carefully. Examples of more complex
macro programming are given in the sample Macro File, COMMO.MAC, and
in the supplied file, MACROS.TXT.
The following sections assume familiarity with {COMMO}'s key
commands and with other features of the program. Since many macro
functions have corresponding key commands, duplicate explanations
will not be given here. Refer to the description of the key command
in a previous section.
{COMMO} macros may be used to perform many different operations, yet
their structure is simple and consistent. Here are some examples:
{alk} {clear} {stop}
This macro will define Alt-K to clear the screen. "alk" is called a
"macro identifier" or "macro-id" for short, and is three characters
in length.
Certain macro-id's are reserved to represent keys on the keyboard,
such as "alk" in this case, and are called "key-id's."
CLEAr is called a "function" and is represented by four or more
characters of which only the first four are necessary.
The STOP function is used here to terminate the macro and may be
used in either it's long or short form:
... {stop} long form
... {} short form
Note that the default key to clear the screen, Alt-C, is still in
effect unless it is reassigned.
All of {COMMO} key-id's and functions are described in later
sections. They are also summarized in Online Help.
{abc} {setlook 30,hng,3,|} {lookfor first name?}
{send Fred|} {return}
In this macro the SETLook function will set timeout parameters for
subsequent LOOKfor functions. The LOOKfor will then watch the data
coming in from the modem and when it sees "first name?", control
will pass to the next function. In this case the next function,
SEND, will send the string "Fred" followed by a carriage return
(indicated by the "|").
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 39
The macro ends with a RETUrn function. If the macro was CALLed from
another macro, control will return to the CALLing macro. Otherwise
the RETUrn will behave like a STOP.
{bbs} {capture y,commo.cap} {call abc}
{asciiup textfile.xyz,:} {}
This macro will open the capture file "commo.cap" (the "y" means
"yes", open the file). Then it will execute the previously
described macro "abc." Then it will ASCII Upload the file
"textfile.xyz" using the pacing character ":".
Note that macros may occupy more than one line in the Macro File.
Macro-id and Function Summary
=============================
MACRO-ID's must be three characters (commas and curly braces should
not be used). Case is ignored so that "GK1" is the same as "gk1" or
"gK1."
Macro-id's should be unique within each Macro File. {COMMO} will
always use the first occurrence of a duplicated macro-id.
Macro-id's may appear anywhere within macros and may be the targets
of CALL, GOTO and other functions. Multiple macro-id's may appear
before any function:
{aln} {aly} {dial 50,abc} {}.
FUNCTION NAMES are four or more characters and may always be
abbreviated to the first four. Case is ignored here as well.
Remember to terminate each macro with a STOP function unless it
already ends with a function which does not return control in line,
such as GOTO, RETUrn, EXIT, etc. If you don't, processing will
continue with the next macro in your Macro File!
Additional Macro File Rules
===========================
The Macro File is entirely free-form. Macro-id's and functions may
appear on the same line or on separate lines. More that one
macro-id may appear on the same line:
{ala} {clear} {} {alw} {sound n} {}
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 40
Note that only the first may be executed from the Macro File window
using the Selector Bar. Comments may appear anywhere outside the
curly braces.
Executing Macros
================
Macro execution may be started in a number of ways:
1) Open the Macro Processor window (Alt-M), position the Selector
Bar on the macro-id and press [Enter] (the macro-id must be in
the first set of curly braces on the line).
2) If the macro-id is also a key-id, then you may press that key
from the Terminal Screen. If the same key-id appears more than
once, the first occurrence will be used.
3) The macro may be linked to a Dialing Directory entry. In this
case {COMMO} will GOTO the macro when a connection is established
with that system.
4) The macro may be specified on the command line with the switch
"/m=". It will be started as soon as {COMMO} has initialized
itself.
5) The macro may be an argument of another function such as CALL,
GOTO, DIAL or SETLook (these are detailed in a later section).
Additional Macro Execution Rules
================================
Use [Ctrl-Enter] instead of [Enter] to start a macro and {COMMO}
will wait after preparing EXECute functions (before they are
executed by DOS). {COMMO} will also wait before returning to the
Terminal Screen so that you may see any error messages from the
executing program.
ASCII keys may be typed to the serial port during LOOKfor, PAUSe and
HOLD functions.
The [Esc] key is used to terminate macro processing. To send an Esc
code to the remote (ASCII 27) during macro execution, press Ctrl-[
(Ctrl + left bracket).
The Macro Processor will execute functions in order until one of the
following conditions occur:
1) A CALL, GOTO, RETURn, STOP, EXIT, etc. is encountered.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 41
2) Control is transferred to an alternate macro from certain
functions when a special condition occurs. An example of this is
the SETLook function. The alternate will execute when a
subsequent LOOKfor times out.
3) A macro error occurs. This will bring up the Macro Error window,
indicating the location of the problem. The macro is terminated.
4) [Esc] is pressed. Macro processing is terminated.
5) The end of the Macro File is reached.
Current function execution may be terminated by pressing
[Ctrl-Break]. For example, this can be used to terminate a LOOKfor,
PAUSe or HOLD prematurely. The macro will advance to the next
function.
Some macro functions show their current action on the status line at
the bottom of the screen. In addition, a "face" character in the
middle of the status line indicates that a macro is executing.
=======================
{COMMO} Macro Functions
=======================
The purpose of this section is to show the syntax of each function
and the meaning of its arguments through examples. All functions
are listed here, but details on functions which are also default key
commands are found in the section "{COMMO} Key Commands."
Function names are shown with their four-letter abbreviations in
uppercase. The following conventions are used in many functions:
"y" or "yes" is used to indicate "yes", "on", "open", etc.
"n" or "no" is used to indicate "no", "off", "close", etc.
This provides a highly consistent macro structure which is very easy
to remember.
Function Arguments
==================
Arguments are the parameters that follow the function name. One
space separates the function name from the arguments (extra spaces
must be avoided). Multiple arguments are separated by commas.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 42
{bbs} {capture y,commo.cap} {call abc}
{asciiup textfile.xyz,:} {return}
Here the function CAPTure has two arguments: "y" and "commo.cap."
{abc} {lookfor first name?} {send Fred|} {}
The function LOOKfor has one argument: "first name?". Quotation
marks are NOT used to enclose data strings or filenames in {COMMO}
macros.
When a function is also associated with a default key command, the
lack of arguments will cause the function to behave like the key
command -- usually bringing up a window or toggling a toggle. This
is useful for reassigning keys.
=======================================
Description of Functions (alphabetical)
=======================================
ALARm
-----
Default key: none
Description: Ring the alarm.
Examples:
{alarm} Ring alarm, ring count in Config. File.
{alarm 2} Ring alarm 2 times.
{COMMO} will wait until the alarm has stopped ringing before
proceeding to the next macro function (the alarm may be terminated
early by pressing a key).
ASCIiup
-------
Default key: Alt-A
Description: Upload an ASCII (text) file.
General form:
{ASCIiup pathname,pace}
pathname The complete path and filename (if the path
is absent, the current directory will be
used).
pace The pacing character to be used.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 43
Examples:
{asci} Open ASCII Upload window.
{asci c:\msgs\file.xyz,:} Upload "file.xyz." Use ":" for
pacing.
{asci c:\msgs\file.xyz} Same, but use current pacing
character.
{asci c:\msgs\file.xyz,} Same, but no pacing.
{asci ,?} Set current pacing character to "?"
{asci ,} Set current pacing to "no" pacing.
The pacing character may be entered according to the rules in
Appendix D "ASCII Character Representation." For example, "^m" or
"|" may be used to represent the carriage return.
AUTObaud
--------
Default key: Alt-5
Description: Set AutoBaud toggle.
Examples:
{auto} Toggle AutoBaud on/off
{auto y} Turn on AutoBaud
{auto n} Turn off AutoBaud
BEEP
----
Default key: none
Description: Sound a beep.
Example:
{beep} No arguments.
BREAk
-----
Default key: Alt-B
Description: Send a break.
Example:
{break} No arguments.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 44
CALL
----
Default key: none
Description: Execute another macro.
Example:
{call abc} Execute macro abc.
If the macro "abc" executes a RETUrn function, then control returns
to the function following the CALL.
Note that macros may be nested up to 32 deep.
See also RETUrn, PUSHstack, POPStack.
CAPMode
-------
Default key: none
Description: Set Capture Mode.
Examples:
{capmode screen} Set Capture Mode to SCREEN.
{capmode filter} Set Capture Mode to FILTER.
{capmode raw} Set Capture Mode to RAW.
CAPTure
-------
Default key: Alt-1
Description: Capture File Options.
Examples:
{capture} Open Capture File Options window.
{capture y} Open current Capture File.
{capture n} Close current Capture File.
{capt y,c:\commo\file.xyz} Open indicated Capture File.
{capt n,c:\dl\newfile.cap} Close current Capture File, set new
file as indicated.
Note: The current Capture File will always be closed when a new
file is opened.
See also CAPMode.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 45
CHATmode
--------
Default key: Alt-- (Alt minus)
Description: Set Chat Mode toggle.
Examples:
{chat} Toggle Chat Mode on/off.
{chat y} Turn on Chat Mode.
{chat n} Turn off Chat Mode.
CLEAr
-----
Default key: Alt-C
Description: Clear Terminal Screen to default colors.
Example:
{clear} No arguments.
CONFig
------
Default key: Alt-G
Description: Edit Configuration File.
Example:
{config} No arguments.
CURSor
------
Default key: none
Description: Terminal Screen cursor on/off.
Examples:
{cursor} Toggle Terminal cursor on/off.
{curs y} Turn on Terminal Screen cursor.
{curs n} Turn off Terminal Screen cursor.
DELAy
-----
Default key: none
Description: Set Inter-Character Delay factor.
Example:
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 46
{delay 25} Set factor to 25.
DIAL
----
Default keys: Alt-D, Alt-U
Description: Dialing Directory.
Examples:
{dial} Open Dialing Directory window (like Alt-D).
{dial ,} Multi Number Dial (like Alt-U).
{dial 25,abc} Multi Number dial with try count.
25 is the maximum number of dialing tries. If no connection is
established when the try count is exhausted, the macro in
the second argument will be started. May be 0 to 999. "0"
means unlimited.
abc is a macro to GOTO if the try count in the first argument is
exhausted. If no macro is specified or if the macro-id is
invalid, control will pass to the next function.
Default arguments are: Dialing tries 0 (unlimited)
Macro none
Null arguments in the DIAL function will revert to these defaults.
Marked numbers will be redialed in sequence. Numbers may be marked
in one of several ways:
1) Manually in the Dialing Directory window.
2) By placing Dialing Strings on the {COMMO} command line.
3) Using the MARK macro function.
If a connection occurs and a valid Linked Macro is specified in the
Dialing Directory, the macro will be started (as a GOTO). If no
macro is specified in the Dialing Directory, control is passed to
the next function.
To automatically resume Multi Number Dialing at the end of a Linked
Macro, you should use a sequence such as:
... {setlook 60} {lookfor ^jNO CARRIER^m} {dial ,} {}
This allows more than one system to be called without operator
intervention.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 47
See also: MARK, UNMArk.
DISPlay
-------
Default key: none
Description: Display a string to the screen.
General form:
{DISPlay row,col,attr,string}
row The row where the string will display.
col The column where the string will display.
attr The attribute (colors) of the string.
string The text of the string (no quotes).
Examples:
{display 12,20,17,Hello!} Display "Hello!" at row 12, column
20. Colors are white on blue.
{disp ,,,Hello, again.^m^j} Display "Hello, again." at the
current cursor using the current
attribute, followed by a cr/lf.
{disp 3,40} Position the cursor at row 3,
column 40.
The attribute is specified in the same manner as the colors in the
Configuration File (press F10 in the Internal Editor to display the
Color Chart).
Setting background colors to high intensity values will cause
blinking (for example, using "9" instead of "1" will still give a
blue background but the foreground character will blink).
After the string is displayed, the previous Terminal Screen
attribute will be restored.
DOORway
-------
Default key: Alt-=
Description: Toggle Doorway Mode.
Example:
{doorway} Toggle Doorway Mode on/off.
{door s} Status Line on when entering Doorway Mode.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 48
The "s" parameter is ignored when exiting Doorway Mode (the Status
Line will be restored to its prior state).
EXECute
-------
Default key: none
Description: Execute a DOS command.
This function enables you to "build" a command to be executed by
DOS. The DOS command processor (COMMAND.COM) is used, which implies
that you may specify any command as you would type it from the DOS
prompt. Thus you can execute batch files and internal DOS commands
(REN, DEL, etc.). Also you can omit command paths and extensions
(if the command is in your PATH).
A number of special parameters are available which will either
substitute the current value of a variable or perform a specific
action before or after command execution.
In addition, the user input parameter "%i" lets you enter
information that is not known until execution time. For example you
can insert a filename (or pathname) at a certain point in the
command.
The special parameters are detailed here and are also summarized in
Online Help. They are also used in the EXED and EXEN functions.
%i General user input prompt. May be used more than once in a
command and will result in a prompt for input in the
"Execute a DOS Command" window.
%p Current serial port number (1,2,3 or 4).
%s Current serial port speed (2400, 38400, etc.).
%m Current modem speed obtained from the connect message. For
example, "CONNECT 2400" sets %m to "2400". This is used to
pass the modem speed to external protocols (for time
estimation) when the serial port is "locked" at a higher
speed.
If your modem provides a "CARRIER" message containing the
modem speed, then set the Dialing Success Response in the
Configuration File to "CARRIER" instead of "CONNECT".
Note that this value is "null" when no speed is returned in
the connect message.
%u Current upload directory (from Config File).
%d Current download directory (from Config File).
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 49
%c Current capture file (use Alt-1 to check).
%k Insert an ASCII control character into the DOS command. For
example to issue a formfeed to your printer you could have
the macro function: {exec echo %k^L > prn}. See Appendix D
for rules on representing control characters.
%a Sound the alarm at the end of command execution.
%w Wait (pause) before restoring the Terminal Screen. This is
useful if you need to see the results of the command
execution.
%% Insert an actual "%" into the command.
Use [Ctrl-Enter] instead of [Enter] to start a macro and you will be
able to see the prepared EXECute functions before they are executed
by DOS. {COMMO} will also wait before returning to the Terminal
Screen so that you may see any error messages from the executing
program.
Examples:
{exec dsz port %p speed %s sz %u\%i %a%w}
{COMMO} will prepare the DSZ command by substituting the "%"
parameters, then call DOS to execute the program.
Note the "%i". This will bring up the "Execute a DOS
Command" window and prompt you for input (in this case, a
filename).
The alarm will sound at completion ("%a") and {COMMO} will
wait for a keypress ("%w") before restoring the Terminal
Screen.
{exec list %c}
The LIST program will be executed with the current Capture
File as a command line argument. {COMMO} will return
immediately to the Terminal Screen when LIST exits.
EXED
----
Default key: none
Description: Execute an external program directly.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 50
Use this function to execute .EXE and .COM programs without the use
of the command processor (COMMAND.COM). There are several
advantages to this:
1) Only the memory needed to run the program must be available
(the command processor requires that 32k or more be
available when it is run).
2) About 4k of memory is saved by not having a copy of the
command processor resident when the program is executed.
3) The program executes faster, since COMMAND.COM is not loaded
from disk.
4) The program's exit code is preserved and may be tested with
the {COMMO} IFERrorlevel function.
Two important rules must be followed when using EXED:
1) The full pathname of the program file must be specified,
including the path where the file resides on disk and the
file extension. For example:
{exed c:\util\list.com %c}
2) Only .EXE and .COM files may be run with EXED (batch files
and internal DOS commands cannot be executed without the
command processor, use EXEC or EXEN).
In all other respects EXED is the same as EXECute, including the use
of all "%" parameters.
EXEN
----
Default key: none
Description: Execute a DOS command, do not clear the screen.
This function is exactly the same as EXECute, but the Terminal
Screen is not cleared when the command is sent to DOS. It is used
to produce a smoother transition when programs or DOS commands
execute rapidly.
Examples:
{exen del c:\commo\commo.cap}
{exen ren commo.cap joes-bbs.cap}
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 51
EXIT
----
Default key: Alt-X
Description: Exit {COMMO}.
Example:
{exit} No arguments (return code = 0).
{exit 3} With return code.
The return code will be passed to DOS. It may be tested with the IF
ERRORLEVEL batch command. Range is 0 to 255.
GOLOok
------
Default key: none
Description: Set a macro-id to GOTO if a string comes in during a
subsequent LOOKfor function.
Example construct:
{setlook 60,hng,3,n|}
...
{mac} {golook aaa,string1}
{golook ,string2}
{golook bbb,string3}
{lookfor string4} {send answer4|} {goto ccc}
{aaa} {send answer1|} {goto mac}
{bbb} {call xyz} {goto mac}
{ccc} ...
In this example {COMMO} will look for four strings. When any string
comes in, the LOOKfor is terminated (all strings are cancelled). It
may be set up again by going back to "mac."
The GOLOok functions for string1 and string3 will GOTO "aaa" or
"bbb" respectively if one of the strings comes in. In the example
control returns to "mac" and the four strings will continue to be
looked for.
The GOLOok for string2 has a null macro-id and control will pass to
the function following the LOOKfor if the string comes in. The ","
must be present.
If string4 comes in, control will also pass to the function
following the LOOKfor.
Tips on using the GOLOok function:
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 52
GOLOok functions should immediately precede a LOOKfor (no string
compares actually occur until the LOOKfor executes). Up to 15
GOLOoks may be used for a total of up to 16 strings to scan for.
If two or more strings cause a match at the same time, the LAST
such string listed is the one acted upon. For example, when
"abcdef" and "def" are listed and "abcdef" comes in.
Since the LOOKfor is terminated whenever any of the strings come
in (or when the LOOKfor timeout expires), this structure is
unrestricted -- that is, CALLs, GOTOs, other GOLOok/LOOKfor
constructs, etc., may be used freely in any of the branches.
See the PUSHstack function for an example showing how to improve
the structure of the GOLOok/LOOKfor sequence.
See also "TIPS on creating LOOKfor strings" in the section
describing the LOOKfor function.
See also: LOOKfor, SETLook, PUSHstack, POPStack.
GOTO
----
Default key: none
Description: Transfer control to a macro-id.
Example:
{goto x21} Control transferred to macro-id "x21".
HANGup
------
Default key: Alt-Q
Description: Disconnect by dropping DTR.
Examples:
{hangup} Prompt user for disconnect.
{hangup y} Disconnect without prompting.
HELP
----
Default key: Alt-H
Description: Open Online Help window.
Example:
{help} Display topic 00
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 53
{help 5} Display topic 05
Topic numbers may range from 00 to 99. You may create your own
Online Help file. See "Modifying the Help File."
HOLD
----
Default key: none
Description: Hold until specified time of day (24 hour format).
Examples:
{hold 3:30} Hold until 3:30 am.
{hold 16:10} Hold until 4:10 pm.
{hold 0:00} Hold until midnight.
IFCArrier
---------
Default key: none
Description: Test for presence of carrier detect signal.
General form:
{IFCArrier true-id,false-id}
true-id A macro-id to GOTO if carrier is detected.
false-id A macro-id to GOTO if carrier is not
detected.
NOTE: The default when either macro-id is omitted is to
pass control to the next function.
Example:
{ifcarrier c10,c20}
IFERrorlevel
------------
Default key: none
Description: Test the exit code of an EXED function.
General form:
{IFERrorlevel number,true-id,false-id}
number A number from 0 to 255. It will be compared
to the exit code from the last EXED function.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 54
true-id A macro-id to GOTO if the exit code is
greater than or equal to "number."
false-id A macro-id to GOTO if the exit code is less
than "number."
NOTE: The default when either macro-id is omitted is to
pass control to the next function.
Examples:
{iferror 1,abc,def}
{iferror 5,abc}
{ifer 2,,def}
The exit code may be tested repeatedly if necessary.
Many programs return an exit code greater than 0 when the result is
unsuccessful. DSZ, for example, will return an exit code of 1 if
the file transfer has failed.
This test is meaningful only following an EXED function. EXEC, EXEN
or Shell to DOS will normally set the exit code to 0.
IFEXist
-------
Default key: none
Description: Test for existence of a disk file or files.
General form:
{IFEXist pathname,true-id,false-id}
pathname A DOS pathname. If the path is omitted, the
current directory will be used. If wildcards
are used the "true" condition will hold if
any files match the specification.
true-id A macro-id to GOTO if the file exists.
false-id A macro-id to GOTO if no files match.
NOTE: The default when either macro-id is omitted is to
pass control to the next function.
Examples:
{ifex a:file.xyz,,m20} GOTO "m20" if not found.
{ifex c:\data\words.txt,345} GOTO "345" if found.
{ifex c:\ul\*.rep,a01,a02} Using a wildcard.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 55
INITmodem
---------
Default key: Alt-O
Description: Send Modem Initialization String.
Example:
{init} No arguments
LIGHts
------
Default key: Alt-0
Description: Set Signal Lights toggle.
Examples:
{lights} Toggle Signal Lights on/off.
{lights y} Turn on Signal Lights.
{lights n} Turn off Signal Lights.
LOCAlecho
---------
Default key: Alt-6
Description: Set Local Echo toggle.
Examples:
{local} Toggle Local Echo on/off.
{local y} Turn on Local Echo.
{local n} Turn off Local Echo.
LOOKfor
-------
Default key: none
Description: Look for a string in the modem input stream.
Examples:
{setlook 60,abc,4,n|} Set parameters.
{lookfor first name?} Look for the string "first name?"
{look ^(COMMO^)} Look for the string "{COMMO}".
Parameters controlling LOOKfor execution are set with the SETLook
function, which should be executed before any LOOKfor functions.
See the description of the SETLook function for details.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 56
The LOOKfor function will scan for the requested string to appear,
then macro execution will continue with the next function.
Use the GOLOok function to scan simultaneously for up to 15
additional strings during a LOOKfor.
TIPS on creating LOOKfor (and GOLOok) strings:
There should be just one space following the LOOKfor function
name. Any spaces beyond this point are part of the string. The
string ends at the right curly brace.
GOLOok and Auto Receive strings begin after the comma following
the macro-id. There should be no spaces unless they are part of
the string.
Strings may be up to 32 characters in length (control characters
like "^M" count as one). Upper/lower case is ignored.
ANSI control sequences are filtered if ANSI or VT102 emulation is
enabled.
Remember that short strings may not be unique enough, long
strings may not match due to line noise.
Rules for representing special characters in LOOKfor strings are
given in Appendix D "ASCII Character Representation."
See also: GOLOok, SETLook.
MACLoad
-------
Default key: none
Description: Load a new Macro File.
General form:
{MACLoad filename,macro-id,r}
filename The new Macro File. Do not specify a path;
the {COMMO} home directory will be used.
macro-id A macro-id to GOTO when the new file is
loaded. Optional.
r Specifies that COMMO.MAC will be reloaded
when carrier detect is lost. Normally this
would occur at the end of the call.
Optional.
Examples:
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 57
{macload vt102-1.mac,,r} Load vt102-1.mac, reload COMMO.MAC
at the end of the call.
{macl newmac.fil,abc} Load newmac.fil, start macro "abc"
in the new file.
IMPORTANT: The new Macro File must reside in the {COMMO} home
directory (do not specify a path).
The current file will be saved to disk if changes are outstanding.
The new file is then loaded in place of the current one (all macros
are replaced).
MACLoad should be the last function in a macro, since control is not
returned.
MACRo
-----
Default key: Alt-M
Description: Open Macro Processor window.
Example:
{macro} No arguments.
MARK
----
Default key: none
Description: Mark Dialing Directory entries for dialing.
Example:
{mark joes-bbs,file-city} Mark entries for dialing.
Dialing Strings may be separated by spaces or commas.
{COMMO} will search the Dialing Directory for each string and mark
the first entry where a match is found. Case is ignored.
The strings may consist of any part of a Dialing Directory entry
line (including passwords). However the following characters may
not appear in a macro Dialing String: space, comma, left or right
curly brace.
See also: DIAL, UNMArk.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 58
NOOP
----
Default key: none
Description: No-op function, does nothing
Example:
{noop} No arguments.
PARMs
-----
Default key: Alt-L
Description: Set Serial Port Parameters
General form:
{PARMs speed,format,comport}
speed The bps rate, such as 9600.
format The data format, such as 8n1.
comport The serial port number.
Examples:
{parms 2400,8,1} Set 2400 bps, 8n1, Com1.
{parms ,,4} Set Com4.
{parms 19200,7o1} Set 19200 bps, 7o1.
Note that omitted parameters are not changed.
PASSword
--------
Default key: Alt-P
Description: Send current password.
Example:
{password} No arguments.
The current password is obtained from the Dialing Directory entry
whenever a number is dialed. If no password is specified no
characters will be sent.
PAUSe
-----
Default key: none
Description: Pause for up to 999 seconds.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 59
Example:
{pause 25} Pause for 25 seconds.
POPStack
--------
Default key: none
Description: Pop an element from the macro stack.
Example:
{pops} No arguments.
POPStack throws away the top element on the macro stack. This
element would have been the target of the next RETUrn function.
See PUSHstack for a more complete description of the use of this
function.
See also CALL, RETUrn, GOLOok, LOOKfor.
PRINtlog
--------
Default key: Alt-2
Description: Set Print Log toggle.
Examples:
{print} Toggle Print Log on/off.
{print y} Turn on Print Log.
{print n} Turn off Print Log.
PUSHstack
---------
Default key: none
Description: Push a return point onto the macro stack.
Examples:
{push} Push the current location.
{push abc} Push the location "abc".
When there are no arguments, the location pushed is the location of
the PUSHstack function itself (i.e., it will be executed again when
a RETUrn is encountered).
Explanation: Whenever a CALL is executed, the location of the
function following the CALL (the "return point") is "pushed" onto
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 60
the macro stack. When a subsequent RETUrn is executed, the location
at the top of the stack is "popped" and control is transferred to
that location. This allows "nesting" of CALLs and RETUrns.
PUSHstack will push a return point onto the macro stack without
transferring control to the location (control continues in
sequence). A subsequent RETUrn will transfer control to the
location that was pushed.
POPStack will remove the top stack element without transferring
control to it (control continues in sequence).
These functions may be used to set a return point for GOLOok/LOOKfor
functions, so that the same GOLOok routines may be used in more than
one macro. They also help to create macros with improved structure.
Here is a sample construct using PUSHstack and POPStack:
{mmm} {call ggg} ...
...
{ggg} ...
{pushstack}
{golook aaa,string1}
{golook bbb,string2}
{golook ccc,string3}
{lookfor string4} {send answer4}
{popstack} {return}
{aaa} {send answer1} {return}
{bbb} {send answer2} {return}
{ccc} {send answer3} {return}
If strings 1,2 or 3 come in, responses will be sent and control will
RETUrn to the PUSHstack (and execute it again). If string 4 comes
in the element pushed will be discarded by the POPStack and control
will return following the {call ggg}.
See also CALL, RETUrn, GOLOok, LOOKfor.
RETUrn
------
Default key: none
Description: Return from a CALLed macro.
Example:
{return} No arguments.
This function will return control to a location determined by the
last CALL or PUSHstack function. See PUSHstack for a more complete
description of the use of CALL/RETUrn.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 61
Note: If a RETUrn is encountered and no CALL or PUSHstack has been
executed, a STOP will occur. This is useful in macros that are
CALLed and are also used standalone (such as protocol file transfer
macros).
See also CALL, PUSHstack, POPStack.
SCREen
------
Default key: Alt-I
Description: Screen Image Save.
Examples:
{screen} Open Screen Image Save window.
{screen y} Append screen image to current file.
{screen y,commo.scn} Append screen image to indicated file.
(and change current pathname).
{screen n,c:\file.xyz} Change current screen image pathname
(don't save screen to file).
SCROllback
----------
Default key: Alt-K
Description: Display Scrollback Buffer
Example:
{scroll} No arguments.
SEND
----
Default key: none
Description: Send a string to the modem.
Example:
{send Fred|~~Brucker|~~#|} Send my first and last name with
carriage returns and 1 second
delays, then send the current
password and <cr>.
Note: see Appendix D "ASCII Character Representation" for
information on how to represent any character in a SEND function.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 62
SETLook
-------
Default key: none
Description: Set parameters for LOOKfor functions.
Example:
{setl 60,abc,4,n|} Set LOOKfor parameters
60 LOOKfor timeout. Maximum time in seconds to look for a
string. If the string is not found in the allotted time,
the macro in the second argument will be started. May be 0
to 999. "0" means forever.
abc Timeout macro. Macro to GOTO if the time in the first
argument expires. If no macro is specified or if the
macro-id is invalid, control will pass to the function
following the LOOKfor.
4 Prompt timeout. During a LOOKfor function unwanted prompts
may appear like "Press any key" or "More [Y/n]", etc.
This argument is the time in seconds to wait at a prompt (no
input from the modem) before sending the string in the
fourth argument. Usually you would send "|" or "n|".
When the string is sent the process is restarted, allowing
any number of prompts to be satisfied (until the LOOKfor
itself is satisfied or times out).
The timer will also be reset if any keys are typed while
waiting. This allows a manual response to a prompt which
the macro does not handle.
Make sure this value is high enough to give the host system
time to "think" when it is in between prompts. Some systems
take longer to do things. May be 0 to 999. "0" means
forever.
n| Prompt response. String to send when the time in the third
argument runs out. May be up to 32 characters.
The SETLook function will set parameters for any subsequent
LOOKfor's. SETLook may be executed at any time to modify the
parameters.
Default arguments are: LOOKfor timeout 0 (forever)
Timeout macro none
Prompt timeout 0 (forever)
Prompt response none
Null arguments in the SETLook function will revert to these
defaults.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 63
See also: LOOKfor, GOLOok.
SHELl
-----
Default key: Alt-S
Description: Shell to DOS.
Example:
{shell} No arguments.
SOUNd
-----
Default key: Alt-3
Description: Set Master Sound toggle.
Examples:
{sound} Toggle Master Sound on/off.
{sound y} Turn on Master Sound.
{sound n} Turn off Master Sound.
STATusline
----------
Default key: none
Description: Set Status Line toggle.
IMPORTANT: The Status Line is {COMMO}'s instrument panel. You
should not turn it off until you are familiar with operating the
program.
Examples:
{statusline} Toggle Status Line on/off.
{status y} Turn on Status Line.
{status n} Turn off Status Line.
When the Status Line is off (not visible), the bottom line of the
display becomes part of the Terminal Screen.
The STATusline function is ignored while in Chat Mode.
STOP
----
Default key: none
Description: Halt macro execution.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 64
Examples:
{stop} No arguments.
{} Short form.
STOP always returns {COMMO} to manual operation in the Terminal
Screen. It should be used to end login macros.
TERMinal
--------
Default key: none
Description: Set Terminal Emulation Type.
Example:
{terminal V} Set VT102 emulation.
{term a} Set ANSI-BBS emulation.
{term t} Set TTY emulation.
UNMArk
------
Default key: none
Description: Unmark Dialing Directory entries.
Example:
{unmark joes-bbs,file-city} Unmark listed entries.
{unmark} Unmark all entries.
See the description of the MARK function for the rules on writing
macro Dialing Strings.
See also: DIAL, MARK.
VTCUr
-----
Default key: none
Description: Define a VT102 cursor (arrow) key.
Example:
{vtcur ^[[A|^[OA} Define up-arrow key strings.
The first string is sent when cursor mode is active; the second
string is sent when application mode is active (these modes are
controlled by the host).
The two strings must be separated by a "|". Use "^m" for carriage
return if necessary.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 65
See also VTPAd.
VTPAd
-----
Default key: none
Description: Define a VT102 keypad key.
Example:
{vtpad 5|^[Ou} Define keypad "5" key strings.
The first string is sent when numeric mode is active; the second
string is sent when application mode is active (these modes are
controlled by the host).
The two strings must be separated by a "|". Use "^m" for carriage
return if necessary.
See also VTCUr.
=========================
Table of {COMMO} Key-id's
=========================
Key-id's are also macro-id's with the added advantage that the macro
can be started by pressing the associated key from the Terminal
Screen. Most "extended" keys may be assigned this way. If the same
key-id appears more than once, the first occurrence will be used.
Note that key-id's are case insensitive. The caret (^) indicates
the Ctrl key.
Enhanced keyboard key-id's are listed below.
Key Name Key-id Key Name Key-id
________ ______ ________ ______
Normal-F1 nf1 ... Normal-F10 nf0
Ctrl-F1 cf1 ... Ctrl-F10 cf0
Shift-F1 sf1 ... Shift-F10 sf0
Alt-F1 af1 ... Alt-F10 af0
Alt-A ala ... Alt-Z alz
Alt-1 al1 ... Alt-0 al0
Alt = al= Alt - al-
Escape esc Grey * gr*
Grey - gr- Grey + gr+
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 66
Backspace bsp ^Backspace cbs
Tab tab Shift-tab stb
Enter ent ^Enter cen
Home hom End end
PgUp pgu PgDn pgd
Up-Arrow upa Down-Arrow dna
Left-Arrow lfa Right-Arrow rta
Insert ins Delete del
^Home chm ^End cnd
^PgUp cpu ^PgDn cpd
^Right-Arrow cra ^Left-Arrow cla
Keypad-0 kp0 ... Keypad-9 kp9
Keypad-. kp. ^PrtSc cpr
Enhanced Keyboard Key-id's
==========================
Normal-F11 nfa Normal-F12 nfb
Ctrl-F11 cfa Ctrl-F12 cfb
Shift-F11 sfa Shift-F12 sfb
Alt-F11 afa Alt-F12 afb
Alt-[ al[ Alt-] al]
Alt-; al; Alt-' al'
Alt-, al< Alt-. al.
Alt-/ al/ Alt-\ al\
Alt-* al* Alt-` al`
Center Key cky
The Center Key is the Keypad 5 with Numlock off.
The keys in the second group may also work with the 83-key keyboard
if your BIOS supports the enhanced keyboard. Try them.
========== =====================
Appendix A Setting Up Your Modem
========== =====================
Please be aware that there are many different modems in use and that
it is of the utmost importance that you configure your modem to work
correctly with {COMMO}. A few tips will be given here, but they are
no substitute for the detailed installation instructions in your
modem manual!
When {COMMO} is started, a command string called the Modem
Initialization String will be sent to the modem. You must make
certain that the correct string is set up in your Configuration
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 67
File. This string will perform part or all of the modem setup
depending on the type of modem. Examples will be given for the most
common types.
If your modem is external to your computer, be sure you have
followed the installation instructions carefully and that the cable
is connected to the computer's serial port. It is wise to turn off
power to the computer and the modem when connecting or disconnecting
any cables.
Also check Item 1 in the Configuration File -- the Serial Port
Parameters. This string consists of the default speed, data format
and port number. For example if you usually use your modem at 2400
bps, data format 8n1, on Com1, your parameter string would be:
{2400,8n1,1}
_______________
1200 bps Modems
_______________
Most 1200 bps modems have switches on them which must be set to
provide the proper interaction with your computer and with {COMMO}.
Consult your modem manual concerning these switches and pay
particular attention to the following:
1) Enable command recognition. Allows the modem to recognize
commands (dial, set registers, etc.). Must be in the
"enable" position or modem will be unusable.
2) Send result codes in English. This switch should be set so
that the modem will send verbal responses to commands
instead of numbers. This is usually controlled by a command
also (such as ATV1).
3) Respond to DTR (data terminal ready). This should NOT be in
the "ignore" or "on all the time" position. This switch
allows the computer to signal the modem to hang up.
4) Respond to carrier detect or "allow true carrier." This
should NOT be set to the "on all the time" position.
Here is an example Modem Initialization String which will set up a
1200 bps modem and override the switch settings (if possible):
{~AT S0=0 S7=60 E0 Q0 V1 X1 |}
The most important command to check is the "X" command, since its
function varies the most from modem to modem. The "X" command
determines which responses the modem will generate during dialing
(e.g. CONNECT, BUSY, etc.). It may also activate an additional
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 68
modem feature such as automatic redialing which will interfere with
{COMMO}'s own redialing procedure.
Your modem manual gives a description for each level of the "X"
command: X0, X1, X2, ... , etc. Generally you want to use the
highest level that does not activate undesirable features. If you
will be using {COMMO}'s AutoBaud feature you will need the extended
connect responses such as CONNECT 1200. Also the BUSY response
should be provided if possible. In any case you should modify the
Modem Initialization String to work with your particular modem.
___________________
2400 bps and higher
___________________
Modems which operate at 2400 bps and higher generally have commands
to replace the switches (see the section above if yours has
switches). These commands may be given every time you start {COMMO}
or they may be permanently remembered by modems which have "non-
volatile" memory.
It will be assumed here that the commands are given every time you
start {COMMO}. If you wish to place the settings in non-volatile
memory, consult your modem manual on how to do this. Here is an
example Modem Initialization String for 2400 bps (and most higher
speed) modems:
{~AT S0=0 S7=60 E0 Q0 V1 X4 &C1 &D2 |}
See the comments above concerning the "X" command since they apply
to these modems as well.
If {COMMO} is already running you may edit the Configuration File
with the Alt-G key command, change the Modem Initialization String,
then use the Alt-O key command to send the string to the modem.
Normally the string is sent to the modem when {COMMO} is started.
___________________________________________
Connecting two computers (null modem cable)
___________________________________________
{COMMO} may be used on a "direct connection" between two computers
or between a computer and another serial device. Connect the two
serial ports with a "null modem" cable (see below). Then start the
program on each computer, having selected the appropriate serial
port parameters in the Configuration File(s).
The null modem cable should be designed so that the transmit line on
each end connects to the receive line on the other end. No other
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 69
signals are needed, but none of the RS-232C signals should be left
"floating." They should be tied high or low (or at least grounded).
You may have to disable the Usage Log in the Configuration File by
setting the path to null {}. The log is triggered by changes in
Carrier Detect and will slow things down if CD is unpredictable.
========== =========================
Appendix B {COMMO} and Multi-Tasking
========== =========================
________
DESQview
________
Special care has been taken to ensure that {COMMO} is compatible
with Quarterdeck Office Systems' DESQview(tm), a multi-tasking
supervisor. DESQview allows more than one program to execute at the
same time.
A sample Program Information File (CO-PIF.DVP) has been included in
the {COMMO} package for your convenience. This file is installed as
follows:
1) Copy the file to your DESQview directory (usually C:\DV).
2) Run "Add a Program" (AP) from the "Open Window" menu.
3) Select "Other." Specify the DESQview directory as the
"Path."
4) Mark the {COMMO} entry, press Enter. "CO" should now appear
on your "Open Window" menu.
The CO-PIF.DVP file has been set up to define a 150k memory window.
The amount of memory actually required is affected by the size of
your COMMO.FON file, your COMMO.MAC file and the size of your
Scrollback buffer.
Test the size of the window by running DSZ, LIST, etc., from the
Macro Processor or Shell to DOS. Be sure to test the execution of
external programs with a "wait" at the end so that you can see any
error messages (see EXEC function).
CO-PIF.DVP can be changed with the "Change a Program" (CP) command
on the "Open Window" menu. You may also want to change the
directory information or other parameters.
TIPS on using {COMMO} with DESQview:
For best performance the foreground and background "tick counts"
should both be 10 or less. This is particularly important in
order for Auto Receive to function properly.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 70
If you switch to another task, do not attempt to access any files
which may be in use in the {COMMO} window. Examples are the
Capture File, the Screen Image File and files that may be
currently involved in a file transfer (upload or download). The
result may be a loss of part or all of the data in the file.
This is a general DESQview no-no. You may freely access these
files in the Shell to DOS or Macro Processor features of {COMMO}
(within the same window).
If the memory allocated to the window is too small, {COMMO} will
not be able to load the Online Help file. Since the Online Help
file is loaded only when requested, you needn't be concerned if
you don't intend to use it.
The video display may seem less smooth in DESQview. This is a
result of {COMMO} using the fastest possible display method, and
is quite normal. This effect can be reduced by specifying fewer
clock ticks for foreground and background (4 and 4 seems to work
well).
The Snow Checking option should not be used when {COMMO} is run
under DESQview. If you see "snow" type interference in your CGA
display, use DESQview's own snow checking (request "synchronized
access" in the Setup program).
________
OmniView
________
Display bleed-through may be avoided by telling OmniView that
{COMMO} "Supports TopView Functions" or by using the "/T" switch on
the OmniView command line.
See "TIPS on using {COMMO} with DESQview" in the previous section,
most of which apply to OmniView as well.
_________
DoubleDOS
_________
Color displays require the "DISPLAY = TEXT" option in DDCONFIG.SYS.
Run {COMMO} in the bottom partition -- about 130k to 150k should
suffice if you plan to use Online Help and/or external protocols.
Increase this size in proportion to the size of your Scrollback
buffer.
Some non-multi-tasker-aware, direct-screen-writing programs executed
with the Macro Processor or Shell to DOS may not display properly.
If this happens you may have to run {COMMO} in the top partition.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 71
Use the supplied DBLDANSI.SYS driver in place of your ANSI.SYS for
running other programs in this partition ({COMMO} doesn't use it).
With this setup you may run any non-graphics program in the top
partition, including direct screen writers.
Monochrome displays require the REFRESH option in DDCONFIG.SYS.
Refer to the DoubleDOS user's manual for information on this.
See "TIPS on using {COMMO} with DESQview" in the previous section,
most of which apply to DoubleDOS as well.
========== ============
Appendix C Flow Control
========== ============
Flow Control is a signalling system used by communications devices
to prevent data from being transmitted faster than it can be
processed by the receiving system. This is especially important
when data is transferred at high speeds.
Flow Control is activated from the Configuration File and is used by
{COMMO} for both sending and receiving. You may specify Software
Flow Control, Hardware Flow Control or both. Changes may be made at
any time using the Internal Editor and will be effective immediately
upon exiting the editor.
Software Flow Control uses a control character called XOFF (or ^S)
to signal the remote to pause. XON (^Q) is the signal to "resume
transmission." This is normally used only for ASCII data, since
these characters may appear randomly within binary data. An XOFF
pause will automatically be released in 20 seconds if no XON is
received. It will also be released if you type a character in the
Terminal Screen.
Hardware Flow Control uses the RTS/CTS lines in your RS-232C (serial
port) cable to signal pause/resume without interfering with the
data. It should only be used when you are connected to a device
which also recognizes RTS/CTS Flow Control (such as a high-speed
modem or another computer connected with a null modem cable). A
CTS-off (send) pause will not be released automatically. Turn off
Hardware Flow Control (in the Configuration File) if you need to
override it.
TIPS on using Flow Control:
Your modem must be properly initialized to utilize flow control
(consult the manual for details).
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 72
Since Software Flow Control uses the XOFF (ASCII 19) and XON
(ASCII 17) characters, these will not display on the screen. If
it is necessary to display them, Software Flow Control must be
turned off.
It is especially important to use Flow Control when the Print Log
is on, since data is usually received faster than it can be
printed. If you type a character to the remote during a flow
control pause, the remote may begin sending again (some systems
resume on any character, not just XON). You may have to turn off
the Print Log if this happens.
========== ==============================
Appendix D ASCII Character Representation
========== ==============================
Sometimes it is necessary to enter special characters in the {COMMO}
support files (Configuration File, Dialing Directory and Macro File)
or as input to {COMMO} key commands.
As an example, suppose you wanted to put a carriage return into a
SEND macro function. If you pressed the Enter key while typing into
the Macro File, {COMMO} would think you simply wanted the cursor to
go to the beginning of the next line.
In other words, certain control characters are used in the operation
of {COMMO} and need to be entered in a special way if they are to be
used as data. This section defines how to represent these
characters as data.
In general, Curly braces { } may ONLY appear as shown in the
descriptions and examples for each of the support files.
ASCII Data Strings
__________________
Strings of ASCII characters appear in many places in the {COMMO}
support files, including:
Modem initialization string (Config. File)
Dial prefixes (Config. File)
Dial suffix (Config. File)
Telephone number (Dialing Directory)
Password string (Dialing Directory)
Strings in macro functions such as
SEND, SETLook and LOOKfor (Macro File)
Note that most of these are sent to the modem.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 73
The following characters have special significance in ASCII Data
strings:
The vertical bar (|) represents a carriage return.
The tilde (~) forces a one-half second delay (modem output only).
The pound sign (#) will cause the current Password String to be
sent in its place (in the SEND function only).
Every character in the extended ASCII chart may be represented:
The caret (^) is used to represent ASCII values which may not be
entered from the keyboard:
0 ... ^@ 7 ... ^G 14 ... ^N 21 ... ^U
1 ... ^A 8 ... ^H 15 ... ^O 22 ... ^V
2 ... ^B 9 ... ^I 16 ... ^P 23 ... ^W
3 ... ^C 10 ... ^J 17 ... ^Q 24 ... ^X
4 ... ^D 11 ... ^K 18 ... ^R 25 ... ^Y
5 ... ^E 12 ... ^L 19 ... ^S 26 ... ^Z
6 ... ^F 13 ... ^M 20 ... ^T 27 ... ^[
The caret (^) is also used to represent the following:
{ ... ^( the left curly brace
} ... ^) the right curly brace
| ... ^| the vertical bar
~ ... ^~ the tilde
# ... ^# the pound sign
^ ... ^^ the caret
These particular characters should only appear in this form, while
others such as ASCII 28 through 31 and those in the upper 128
extended character set may be typed using the Alt-numeric-keypad
method as follows:
1. Hold down the Alt key (and keep it down).
2. Enter the ASCII code in decimal using the numeric keypad keys
(1, 2 or 3 digits are ok).
3. Release the Alt key.
ASCII 28 through 31 may also be typed using the Ctrl key on your
keyboard:
28 ... Ctrl \
29 ... Ctrl ]
30 ... Ctrl 6
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 74
31 ... Ctrl -
All other characters are entered in the usual manner.
========== ==================
Appendix E Terminal Emulation
========== ==================
Terminal Emulation Type is indicated on the status line (to the
right of the Serial Port Parameters string). Available types are:
A ANSI-BBS Used on bulletin boards and other systems.
V VT102 Used on minicomputers and mainframes.
T TTY Supports only the basic control characters.
The default Terminal Emulation Type (as defined in the Configuration
File) will be set whenever a system is dialed. It may be changed
temporarily using the Alt-L key command or the TERMinal macro
function.
TIPS on using terminal emulation:
Whenever a change is made, a reset of mode parameters will be
performed. It is therefore important that the change be made
BEFORE (or at the time of) connecting with a host (mode settings
may be transmitted by the host).
If some screens do not look right when VT102 emulation is used,
you may need to turn LINEWRAP off (it defaults to on).
Linewrap may be turned on/off locally using the DISPlay macro
function. Place one of the following in your login macro (or
assign one of them to a key and execute it manually):
{display ,,,^[[?7h} linewrap ON
{display ,,,^[[?7l} linewrap OFF
If colors do not always look right, it may be necessary to set
the Terminal Screen colors in the Configuration File to {07}.
See the note under "Colors" in the Configuration File section.
Printer Support
===============
{COMMO} supports the ANSI/VT102 printer functions, controlled by the
remote system. The "Printer ON/OFF" function will turn {COMMO}'s
Print Log ON/OFF. The "Dedicated Printing" function will send all
input from the serial port directly to the printer. This allows for
"transparent" transmission of printer data, including control codes.
The "Print Screen" function will print the entire current screen.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 75
The printer should be on and ready to print when these functions are
used. When "Dedicated Printing" is active no characters will be
displayed on the screen.
ANSI-BBS Keyboard Support
=========================
The sample Macro File is set up so you can use the PC keypad keys
(arrow keys, PgUp, PgDn, etc.) with most BBS full-screen editors.
VT102 Keyboard Simulation
=========================
Two keyboard files, VT102-1.MAC and VT102-2.MAC, provide support to
simulate the VT102 keyboard. You may merge one of these into
COMMO.MAC if you intend to use VT102 all the time (replace the ANSI-
BBS keys). Be sure that you have no conflicting key-id's (remember
that {COMMO} will use the first occurrence of a key-id).
Or you can use the MACLoad function in your login macro to load the
VT102 file automatically when you connect to the host. Using the
"r" option of MACLoad will reload COMMO.MAC at disconnect. For
example:
{macload vt102-1.mac,,r}
Both files support the following PC keypad functions (^ indicates
the Ctrl key):
Four cursor (arrow) keys
Home - Home cursor
^Home - Insert line
PgUp - Page up
^PgUp - Delete line
PgDn - Page down
^PgDn - Clear screen
End - End of line
Ins - Insert mode
Del - Delete
^bs - Ctrl backspace (delete)
VT102 numeric keypad keys are auto-switched by the host system
between numeric mode and application mode.
The four cursor keys are auto-switched between cursor mode and
application mode.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 76
These files may be modified to create any keyboard support you
desire (see description of VTCUr and VTPAd functions in the section
"{COMMO} Macro Functions."
___________
VT102-1.MAC
___________
This file contains keyboard assignments that work best with the
enhanced keyboard (because of the separate cursor keys, etc.).
With Numlock ON the ten digits and period will simulate their
equivalent VT102 functions. In addition:
F1 to F4 simulate PF1 to PF4
Grey * is used for comma
Grey - is used for dash
Grey + is used for Enter
___________
VT102-2.MAC
___________
This file contains keyboard assignments that work best with the 83-
key keyboard (because of the location of the function keys on the
left side).
The following diagram shows how the ten function keys (Fn) and ten
shifted function keys (SFn) relate to the VT102 keypad keys:
F1= PF1 F2= PF2 SF1= PF3 SF2= PF4
F3= 7 F4= 8 SF3= 9 SF4= -
F5= 4 F6= 5 SF5= 6 SF6= ,
F7= 1 F8= 2 SF7= 3 SF8= Enter
F9= 0 F10= 0 SF9= . SF10= Enter
========== ==========================
Appendix F Error Message Explanations
========== ==========================
If you get an error message that you don't understand, check below
for additional information.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 77
__________________________
Wrong number of braces { }
__________________________
The Configuration File does not have the correct number of
strings (items), or the left and right curly braces are not
present in matched pairs. If necessary compare the file with the
original one in the {COMMO} package.
If you get this message at program startup, check your "SET
COMMO=" command in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file. It may be specifying
a directory that has an old version of COMMO.CFG.
________________________________
Sorry, out of memory
Not enough memory for Scrollback
________________________________
These messages may occur at program startup. Check the
following:
1) {COMMO} cannot allocate its internal buffers. You must make
more memory available.
2) {COMMO} cannot load the Dialing Directory and/or Macro File.
Try reducing the size of either of these files. Removing
comments may help. Or make more memory available.
3) {COMMO} cannot allocate the Scrollback Buffer. Reduce its
size or make more memory available.
_______________________________
Cannot locate command processor
_______________________________
This is an unusual condition. Type "SET" at the DOS prompt and
be sure there is a "COMSPEC=" in the list. If there is, make
sure that COMMAND.COM is in the path specified.
_______________________________
Check your "SET COMMO=" command
_______________________________
1) The Configuration File cannot be located or it has the wrong
number of braces. Make sure your "SET COMMO=" points to the
correct disk/directory.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 78
2) The path located in the system environment is too long. Do
another "SET COMMO=" command to correct this.
___________________________________________
WARNING: another copy of {COMMO} is running
___________________________________________
This message lets you know that you have at least one other copy of
{COMMO} resident in your computer. If possible you should exit back
to that copy to avoid losing changes to your support files.
_______________________
Not enough memory
Program file not found
Unable to execute shell
_______________________
A problem was encountered during Shell to DOS, EXEC, EXEN or
EXED:
1) There may not be enough memory to execute the command
processor or external program you have specified.
2) The program file you specified in an EXED function cannot be
located. Make sure you specify the full path and filename.
3) Some other system error condition may exist. Make sure that
COMMAND.COM is still available in the "COMSPEC=" path.
___________________________
Hardware flow control pause
___________________________
Hardware Flow Control is in effect and the remote system (or your
modem) has requested a pause. Try waiting a few seconds for the
pause to clear; if that fails you may have to turn off Hardware
Flow Control (in the Configuration File).
_________________________________________
File space full! Delete unnecessary text
_________________________________________
{COMMO} allows about 65,000 bytes when editing any file (the
Dialing Directory and Macro File occupy a common file space).
This limit may be reached when editing any of the files with the
Internal Editor. If this happens you must reduce the size of the
file in question. Try removing comment lines and any other
extraneous information.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 79
This message may also be the result of loading a resident program
(TSR) in the Shell to DOS or via the EXEC macro function. Other
causes involve a corruption of DOS parameters and require
rebooting.
_____________________
Dial command too long
_____________________
The dial command consists of the dial prefix, the phone number
string and the dial suffix. The total is limited to 72
characters.
_______________________
Bad parameter after "%"
_______________________
Allowable parameters are listed in the description of the "EXEC"
macro function.
________________________
Command too long for DOS
________________________
DOS commands are limited to 127 characters.
________________________________
Unable to open file
Unable to open Help File
Unable to open Capture File
Unable to open Screen Image File
File not found
Path not found
Too many files
________________________________
Check the following:
1) That the path exists where the file should be.
2) That the file itself exists (this won't be the problem if
the file is being created).
3) Too many files may be open. You may need to increase your
FILES= parameter in CONFIG.SYS.
4) The Online Help File must be less than 64K bytes in size.
5) You cannot use an open Capture File for any other purpose.
{COMMO} (tm) User Guide and Reference page 80
_____________________________________
Closing Capture File, disk is full!
Screen Image not saved, disk is full!
_____________________________________
These files should be edited regularly to ensure that they are
not occupying too much disk space.
- end -