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Executive Host - A Powerful Host/BBS for Telix
version 1.3, released 15 October, 1990
Copyright (c) 1990, by John Wright
Another fine product from,
╓── ╓─┐ ╓─╖
║─ ╙─╖ ╟─╜ Fine Software Products
╙── xecutive└─╜ oftware ╨ roducts for Intelligent People
John Wright - Owner, Programmer, Technical Support
T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Introduction ......................................................... 1
Registration ..................................................... 2
System Requirements .............................................. 3
Installation ......................................................... 3
Main Menu Options .................................................... 5
SysOp Menu ....................................................... 5
Guest Menu ....................................................... 8
SysOp's Function Keys ................................................ 9
Security Levels ...................................................... 10
The Host User File ................................................... 10
The Message Base ..................................................... 10
Private Messages ................................................. 11
Public Messages ................................................. 11
The Message Data File ............................................ 11
Setting Up Text Files for View ....................................... 12
Adding Files to the Host ............................................. 12
Installing Dir Files (with descriptions) ............................. 13
Installing Bulletins ................................................. 14
Installing Doors ..................................................... 15
Using the Host Utilities ............................................. 15
Using the Host Filer ................................................. 17
File Transfers ....................................................... 18
Downloading ...................................................... 18
Uploading ........................................................ 18
Important Files to Become Familiar With .............................. 19
Limitations .......................................................... 20
Support .............................................................. 20
page 1
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WHAT IS EXECUTIVE HOST?
If you need a fully functional BBS or just a remote access program for
your computer, this is the program for you. Executive Host is designed
to be entirely flexible and can be set-up in a matter of minutes. A
fast and easy to use program that comes with everything you need to be
up and running immediately, and yet has the power to allow extensive
customization and handle multiple bulletins, file lists, and doors.
Executive Host is written entirely in the SALT language and requires
the communications program Telix, version 3.12 or above, to run
properly. If you are not currently using Telix as your communications
package of choice, Executive Host is one of two reasons why you should
switch now. The other reason being that Telix is beyond a doubt, the
finest, most powerful, and easy to use communications package available
today.
What is a host and how does it differ from a BBS? There is only one
major difference between a host and a self-standing BBS program, and
that is that a host is programed in a special programming language
that allows it to directly interface a communications program and use
all of it's powerful features (in this case Telix). This allows the
Host Sysop to take advantage of all of the special functions and
features built into Telix. For example, the registration and set-up of
protocols is not necessary since these come with Telix. Also, in effect
you are getting two programs for the drive-space of one. In other words,
since Executive Host is using the internal communication routines in
Telix, it is a very small program in itself. An alternative remote access
program would be much larger and also much more expensive.
A host will allow it's operator to access his computer from remote, while
away on business or pleasure. Executive Host also has many other features
that allow the access of several hundred callers (up to 999), each of whom
may be assigned a security level for varied levels of access.
It's advanced message base and file transfer routines make it a prime
choice for someone interested in running a Bulletin Board System, either
for personal or business needs. All of this for a low cost of only $29,
as compared to from $200-$500 for programs with comparable features.
page 2
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
EXECUTIVE HOST IS SHARE-WARE.
The extended use of this program after a 10 day trial period
requires it's registration with the author. Some limits have been
built in to the unregistered version of Executive Host to encourage
individual compliance. The file REGISTER.TXT is a registration form
that you may print and mail with your check or money order for $29.00
(U.S. dollars). If you live outside the USA, please send either a
money order in US dollars, or a personal check for your currency's
equivalent amount. Send your check or money order to the author.
John Wright
700 S Virginia Ave
Marion, IL 62959 USA
USE YOUR CREDIT CARD! - You may now register on-line at either of the two
support BBS's with your Visa/Mastercard/Discover card. To order, call:
Micro-Mart BBS - (618) 529-4457 (19200,N,8,1) or
Lake of Egypt BBS - (618) 995-2188 (2400,N,8,1)
For all your computer needs, call Micro-Mart Computer Center, dealer for
HST, Cardinal, Novell, Sanyo, Brother, and DTK Systems. Located in
Carbondale, Illinois at (618)457-4663 (voice). Open 10-5, except Sunday.
What do you get when you register?
1. Full-featured, personalized Host with Zmodem capabilities.
2. External protocol support including Puma, Bimodem, Jmodem, etc.
3. Free upgrades for all versions up to the release of v2.0.
4. Unlimited On-Line BBS support, on two boards, 24 hours.
5. Ability to use custom menus with Executive Host.
6. Quarterly Exechost Announcements mailed to all members.
7. The finest, most powerful Host/BBS system available.
Some portions of Executive Host are Copyright and used with permission
of:
Colin Sampaleanu & Exis Inc.
and Jon Fleming
Thanks go to Jon for his permission to use portions of his password
code.
Executive Host was written entirely in SALT, Telix's powerful script
language. Special thanks go to Colin Sampaleanu, author of Telix
and the SALT language. Telix is a registered copyright of:
Colin Sampaleanu
& Exis Inc.
P.O. Box 130
West Hill, ON
Canada M1E 4R4
Register your copy of Telix today!
page 3
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╒══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╕
│ The author makes no warranties expressed or implied as to the │
│ quality, performance or merchantability of this program. The author │
│ will not be held liable for any direct, indirect, incidental or │
│ consequential damages resulting from the use of this program. │
│ Your use of this program constitutes your agreement to this │
│ disclaimer and your releasing the author from any form of warranty, │
│ liability, or litigation. │
╘══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╛
REQUIREMENTS - 384k of memory and Dos version 3.0 or above is required.
Telix version 3.12 or above is required.
A good text editor that accepts file names on the
command line is required. (Qedit is highly recommended)
A System operator that is familiar with the editor and
the basic DOS commands is required.
INSTALLATION:
To install Executive Host, copy all Executive Host files into your Telix
directory. If you do not have your text editor configured in Telix, do
so now. This is done by running Telix and entering "ALT-O". Then choose
"filenames and paths" and enter your editor's name under option "h".
Hit Escape to exit this screen. If you do not have Telix configured to
use a status bar on the bottom of the screen, do so now. This is done
from the "terminal options" setup screen. Save your new setup and exit
Telix.
If you are using ZIP files, ensure that a copy of pkzip and pkunzip are
located in the host directory or somewhere in your system's path. Pkzip
and Pkunzip are written and copyright programs of PKWARE, Inc, 7547 N.
Port Washingtion Rd., Glendale, WI 53217. The latest shareware release
of these programs is PKZ110.EXE, and is available on most BBS's.
If you have a copy of Doorway.exe, copy it into your Telix directory, and
Executive Host will use it automatically for your remote drop to DOS.
The Host also makes a door.sys file that allows the use of doors run
under Doorway. Doorway is written by Marshall Dudley. The latest copy
of Doorway is DRWY205.ZIP and may be downloaded from Data World BBS,
(615) 966-3574.
Decide where you want your "main" and "upload" directories and
create them with the "MD" command. The "main" directory is the primary
download directory where callers may download files from. However,
downloading from the uploads directory is also permitted.
One set-up would be: C:\ -- Telix ---Main
└----uploads
page 4
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Executive Host Configuration
A: Executive Host Main Files Directory : C:\Telix\main\
B: Executive Host Uploads Directory : C:\Telix\uploads\
C: Connection Type : Modem
D: Minutes Allowed per Call : 60
E: Hour of day to run event (0-23) : 0
F: Host Access (Public or Private) : Private
G: SysOp's Page Turned On/Off : on
H: New Caller's security Level : 1
I: Type of Monitor (Color/Mono) : Mono
J: Lock Baud Rate (high-speed modems) : No
K: Exit and save changes to disk.
Which option ->
Each option should be configured to your individual needs as below,
OPTION A: is the full path of where your main files directory will be
located.
OPTION B: is the full path of where your uploads directory will be
located.
OPTION C: should be left as "Modem" unless you are connecting two
computers directly with a serial cable, in which it should be
set at "Direct".
OPTION D: Is the total minutes allowed on-line per call. A number
between 1 and 60 minutes may be chosen or "0" for no limit.
OPTION E: Time that the Host will execute it's event (event.bat).
Event may be run on any hour of the day (0-23), with "0"
representing midnight.
OPTION F: This setting, if set at "private", will not allow caller's who
are not registered to access the host. If set at "public",
new callers may access the host at the security level set in
option H.
OPTION G: This option sets whether the SysOp's page will be turned on
or off.
OPTION H: This option selects the security level that will be assigned
to new, unverified callers prior to their verification and
upgrade by the SysOp.
Level 1 - Callers may read mail, view bulletins and info screen and
page the SysOp only.
Level 2 Same as 1, but may also view file directories and perform
a text search on file directories.
Level 3 - Same as 2, but may also enter public messages and upload files.
Level 4 - Same as 3, but may also gain access to doors, and view files.
Level 5 - Same as 4, but has full guest privileges including downloading.
page 5
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPTION I: Is the type of monitor and should be set as "Mono" if you
have a monochrome monitor or "Color" if you have a color
monitor.
OPTION J: This option should be left as "No" unless you are using an
error correcting modem, which requires the baud rate to
be locked. (i.e. HST or Hayes 9600 baud modems)
This completes the initial installation of the host, and this is all
that is required to run the host as a remote access program, or as a
simple BBS. Help on the Host's menus are available while running the
Host by typing "H" from the Main or protocol Menus. More detailed
instructions on how to set up multiple doors, bulletins, directory
files, etc. come later in this manual.
THE MENU OPTIONS:
DESCRIPTIONS OF THE SYSOP'S MENU COMMANDS.
Executive Host v1.3
╠══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣
╠════════════════╣ SysOp's Main Menu ╠═════════════════╣
(D)ownload File (M)essage Menu
(U)pload File (B)ulletin Menu
(F)ile Directories (UTIL)ities
(V)iew File (C)olor On/Off
(T)ext Search (EDIT) Guest List
(O)pen Door (P)age SysOp
(X)pert Mode (H)elp on Menus
─────┤ (G)oodbye ├─────
(D)ownload - Sends a file from Executive Host to you. The SysOp may
download from anywhere on the system by using a full path. The SysOp
may also use wildcards (i.e. *.*) when downloading with batch
protocols.
(U)pload - Sets Executive Host up to receive a file from you. The
SysOp may also upload files to anywhere on the system by using a full
path (i.e. C:\LOTUS\BUSINESS.WKS). If you use Zmodem, you will not be
able to upload with a full path since the protocol grabs the filename
from the remote site.
page 6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
(F)ile Directories - Gives a list of all files available for download,
with file names, sizes, dates, and descriptions. After each screen is
filled, the display will pause until <Enter> is pressed. If dir files
have not been set-up by the SysOp, only names, sizes, dates, and
transfer times will be displayed to the caller.
(V)iew - The (Z) sub-option will view any Zip file in the main or
uploads directory of Executive Host. A guest may also view text files
that are compressed inside of the zip file. The (T) sub-option will
allow a guest to view any text file that the SysOp has made available.
A directory of text files available for view can be found with the (F)
option from the main menu, and then the (T) sub-option. The (S)ysOp
view sub-option allows the SysOp to view any text file, anywhere on the
system.
(T)ext Search - This option allows the caller to do a text search of
the file directories made available by the SysOp. searches for
specific text, file names, portions of file names, or even dates (in
the correct format) are allowed. Wildcards (* or ?) will be searched
for literally and should not be used. If the SysOp has not set-up dir
files, this option may not be performed.
(O)pen Door - Displays a menu of doors that may be entered.
(X)pert Mode - This will make Executive Host stop displaying the main
and protocol menus.
(M)essage Menu - This option displays the three message options
available to the SysOp. They are as follows:
(E)nter a message
(R)ead messages
(K)ill all public messages - this option, although dangerous, is
nice to have available in some extreme cases. A safety feature is
built in.
The SysOp may skip this menu by entering (E) or (R) from the main menu,
in order to enter or read messages.
(UTIL) Host Utilities - This option allows the use of four SysOp
utilities.
These utilities are:
(S)hell to DOS - This allows the SysOp to shell to dos from remote.
This option may be used when in local mode, but the F2 key is probably
a better choice in this case. The shell to dos may be executed without
using the "UTIL" option by just entering "S" from the main menu. The
Host will shell to DOS using one of three methods. First, if the
doorway.exe file is detected in the Telix directory, the Host will
create a "door.sys" file and drop to DOS using this excellent program.
Doorway will allow the SysOp to run any program from remote that does
not use bit-map graphics. This includes most word-processors,
databases, and spreadsheets. Of course enough memory must be available
for a program to run. Doorway is share-ware, and the latest version is
available on most good BBSs as DRWY205.ZIP.
page 7
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
If Doorway is not detected, then the Host will search for the file
"drop.bat". The SysOp may modify this file to use the redirection
program/method of his choice (i.e. gateway, CTTY). If this file is
found, the Host will run it to perform the drop to DOS.
If Doorway.exe and drop.bat are both not found, the Host will use
Telix's internal redirection function to allow the SysOp to drop to
DOS. The SysOp will not be able to run most programs, but will be able
to use DOS programs, pkzip/pkunzip, and other programs that do not
write directly to the screen.
(R)ead Host Caller's Log - Allows the remote view of the host caller's
log, which is a text record of everything that takes place on the host.
The caller's log is also where the caller's registration information is
stored.
(D)OS Command Line - Allows the execution of dos commands without
having to drop to DOS.
(T)urn off Host - Shuts down the host from remote. When this option is
chosen, the SysOp will be prompted to decide which environment the host
should quit to (Telix or DOS). By quitting to DOS, the SysOp may
return to a batch file that was run earlier.
(P)age - If the page is turned on, this will page the SYSOP for 20
seconds.
(H)elp - Will display a menu command help file.
(G)oodbye - This will log you off, and set Executive Host up for
another caller.
(C)olor on/off - This will allow the caller to switch between ascii
and color menus.
(EDIT) Guest List - The guest list is the file that contains the list
of users of the host. This command allows the SysOp to directly modify
the security levels of callers, even from remote.
The sub-options for this command are:
(V)iew Guest List - Allows the SysOp to view the current list of
callers along with their current status (security), and their password.
(A)dd a new guest to list - This option allows the SysOp to add a new
caller's name and password to the guest list. The new caller always is
given full guest access to the Host (level 5).
page 8
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
(U)pgrade a New Caller - This option will raise the access level of a
new caller is the SysOp has set the new caller security level at either
1 or 2. By entering the caller's name, his access will then be raised
to 5.
(D)eny a Guest Access to Host - This in effect "locks-out" a caller.
In other words, his access level is set to 0, and when he calls and
enters his correct password he will immediately be hung-up on.
(S)uspend Download privileges - This options will suspend all the
downloading privileges of a caller by setting his access level to 4.
(R)einstate a Guest's Access - This will reset a caller's access level
to 5, which is full guest access.
DESCRIPTIONS OF THE GUEST'S MENU COMMANDS:
Executive Host v1.3
╠══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╣
╠════════════════╣ Guest's Main Menu ╠═════════════════╣
(D)ownload File (E)nter Message
(U)pload File (R)ead Messages
(F)ile Directories (B)ulletins
(V)iew File (I)nfo on Host
(T)ext Search (C)olor on/off
(O)pen Door (P)age SysOp
(X)pert Mode (H)elp on Menus
─────┤ (G)oodbye ├─────
The Guest menu is identical to the SysOp menu except for the
substitution of the following commands in the place of the SysOp
commands.
(E)nter Message - Will allow you to enter a message to any
registered user of this board. Choose "Yes" for the word-wrap
option if you are entering messages normally, "no" if you want the
word-wrap turned off, such as when entering ansi escape codes in
your messages.
(R)ead Messages - Will allow you to read your private mail, and any
public messages that are in the Executive Host message base. Enter
(R S) to read mail that has been left since you last read messages.
page 9
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
(I)nfo on BBS - This will display information about Executive Host
or whatever the SysOp wants to be displayed here.
SYSOP'S FUNCTION KEYS (ON-LINE COMMANDS):
The SysOp has eight commands on the function keys that may be executed
while a caller is on-line, or while in the local logon mode. The SysOp
may toggle the list of commands on the status line by using the up and
down arrow keys.
F1 Key - Kill User - This function will hang-up on the current caller
immediately with no warning or comment.
F2 Key - Dos Functions - This function will bring up the Telix Dos
functions window where the SysOp may drop to dos, perform a directory,
etc.
F3 Key - This key will initiate chat with the current caller.
F4 Key - This key will allow the SysOp to edit the message base while
a caller waits on-line.
F5 Key - This key will raise the caller's access level (temporarily) to
the SysOp level (level 9).
F6 Key - This key will set the caller's access level (temporarily) to
access level 5 (full guest access).
F7 Key - This key will increase the caller's on-line time in 5-minute
increments.
F8 Key - This key will decrease the caller's on-line time in 5-minute
increments.
Also, as in all Telix scripts, pressing the <Esc> key will terminate
the program into Telix. There are some cases in which this function is
not available such as in the message entry area.
HOST SECURITY LEVELS:
Level 0 - Caller is "locked-out" of the Host and will have no access.
Level 1 - Callers may read mail, view bulletins and info screen and
page the SysOp only.
Level 2 - Same as 1, but may also view file directories and upload files.
Level 3 - Same as 2, except caller may enter messages.
Level 4 - Same as 5, but has no downloading privileges.
page 10
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Level 5 - Same as 3, but has full guest privileges including access to
doors, view file functions, and downloading privileges.
Level 6 - Same as 5, but no time limit is imposed on caller.
Level 7 - Not used (same as 6).
Level 8 - Not used (same as 6).
Level 9 - SysOp status. Caller has full access to all SysOp
functions.
Level 9 may not be assigned via the Guest List Editor. In order
to assign this powerful level to a caller other than yourself, you
must edit the "exechost.usr" file with your text editor. It is highly
recommended that you not give anyone an access level 9 other than
yourself. Access level 9 will give the caller complete access to your
system, and disastrous results could occur either by accident or on
purpose.
EDITING THE EXECHOST.USR FILE:
Here is one example of an Executive Host Guest List File (exechost.usr).
⌐----------------- User's Name
| ⌐-------- User's Password
| | ⌐----- User's Security Level
| | | ⌐--- User's Data Number (used in execmail.dat)
| | | |
| | | | (semicolons used as dividers)
| | | |
| | | |
John Wright;host;9;1 << SysOp >>
Edward Williams;dud;5;2 << Guest >>
Brent Taft;whipped;5;3 << Guest >>
Jay Fuller;guy;5;4 << Guest >>
Jack Ripper;nut;5;5 << Guest >>
Bob Coffey;pup;5;6 << Guest >>
Claude Hammond;smart;5;7 << Guest >>
Access Levels may be changed by directly modifying this file with a
text editor. This is the only way you will be able to assign access
level 9 to a user.
In most cases, the easiest way to change access levels is by using the
on-line guest list editor. Once logged on either local or from remote,
enter "edit" from the main menu.
THE MESSAGE BASE AND HOW IT WORKS:
The message base is divided into two main categories, public and private.
These two message systems operate totally independent of one another as
discussed below.
page 11
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE PRIVATE MESSAGE BASE:
When a caller leaves a private message, it is appended to the receiver's
private message file. The private message file is created using the
message data number of the receiver, which is found in the EXECHOST.USR
file. Each user has his/her own data number, and a file is created using
this number as a file description. i.e. a private message file for the
user with the data number 5, would be called "5.MES". When this caller
reads his mail, the Host looks for his message file, "5.MES", and
displays it to the caller. After reading the private mail, the caller
has the option to delete it.
It is obvious that the message data numbers found in the files
EXECHOST.USR & EXECMAIL.DAT, are extremely important. Be very careful
when editing the EXECHOST.USR file, to not change a user's data number.
It is alright to delete a user from the list, as long as the data numbers
of the remaining users are not changed. If you add a new user to this
file with your text editor, be sure and add a new line to the message
data file (EXECMAIL.DAT). Otherwise the caller will receive an error
message when the Host searches for his mail.
PUBLIC MESSAGE BASE:
The public message base also uses the message data numbers, but in a
totally different way. The data numbers are added sequentially to the
file EXECMAIL.DAT, where the user's message information is stored. Two
important bits of information are stored here. The first is the number
of the user's last message read. This is stored in order to give the
caller an idea of where he left off from the last time he read messages.
The second bit of information is the number of the last public message
addressed to the user. This is stored in order to quickly tell the user
if he has new mail or not. When a caller logs on, the Host looks at the
message data file, and compares the last message read with the last
message sent to the user. This way the Host is able to quickly determine
if the user has new mail, without having to scan the entire message base.
Messages written to the caller may be deleted once read by choosing
k)ill at the bottom of the message. The SysOp may delete any public
message. Note: This function does not actually delete the message from
the message base, but simply marks it as deleted so callers are unable to
read it. PACK.EXE must be run to strip these deleted messages from the
message base. It is recommended that SysOps run PACK.EXE at least once
a week (or in the event) in order to trim down the size of the message
base and speed up it's operation. Read the file PACK.DOC for more
information on PACK.EXE.
page 12
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Periodically take a look at your EXECMAIL.DAT file to see if the data
numbers are in neat, sequential order. If a data number is missing, add
it using your text editor.
Example of the EXECMAIL.DAT file:
⌐------- Message Data Number
| ⌐--- User's Last Message Read (public message)
| | ⌐ Number of Last Message Sent to User (public message)
| | |
| | | (semicolons user as dividers)
001;00040;00038
002;00039;00012
003;00040;00033
004;00022;00007
005;00035;00004
SETTING UP TEXT FILES FOR VIEW:
Text files that the SysOp wishes to be available for view by callers
should be set up as follows.
1. Compress all of the text files into a .ZIP file called "text.zip".
2. Place this .ZIP file in the Telix directory.
3. List all of the available files in a description file called
"text.dir". This description file should be included in your directory
file set-up as explained in the next section. This will allow callers
to be able to see what text files you have made available to them.
4. Your text files may now be viewed by Executive Host. Special Note:
If a file with the same name as a text file exists in the Telix
directory, Executive Host will not allow a view of that file. This is
to ensure that no important files are overwritten.
ADDING FILES TO YOUR HOST SETUP:
If you are running the program as a public access BBS, or just as a
semi-private host, you will be sure to want to make available certain
programs for download. Of course the SysOp may download from anywhere
on the system, but guest callers may download from only the main and
uploads directories. Therefore, in order to make programs available to
all callers, they must be copied into one of these two directories.
The arrangement makes no difference; all files may be in the main
directory, all files may be in the uploads directory, or any combination
is fine and the Host will find them.
** NEW!! **
Starting with version 1.3, multiple download directories may be used.
In order for the Host to recognize them properly they must be
subdirectories off of the main download directory.
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For Example:
C: \Telix \Main \Utility <-- Notice that these are all
\Games subdirectories off of the
\program Main download directory.
\comm
\Misc
Approximately 80 subdirectories may be created and used with the Host in
this manner. If you elect to separate your files this way, you
should leave the "Main" directory empty (except for the subdirectories)
in order to speed up the Host's search routines.
If you are using text files with descriptions, initially just copy your
new files to a download directory. Then use the Host Filer to add these
files to your description files (Option A). After your initial set-up
it is a good idea to add the new programs to the description files
prior to copying them into the download directories. The easiest and
most efficient way to do this is to first separate new files into
categories represented by your description files. For example,
copy all of your new utility files into a temporary directory. Then use
option A to add the new files to your utility description file. This will
allow you to enter a path such as "c:\temp\*.zip", instead of adding each
file individually. All that is left is to copy the files into the main or
uploads directory, delete the original files in the temp directory, and
start your new category.
INSTALLING DESCRIPTION FILES - Executive Host works fine using only
physical file directories, however most SysOps who want to run a
serious bbs will want to use a series of program description files that
will display the filenames, dates, and descriptions. Executive Host has
an advanced filer built in, and directory files can be setup easily as
follows.
1. Decide how many different description files you wish to use, and
enter their names in the directory data file "dir.dat".
2. If you want to use only one big description file, the "dir.dat" file
is not necessary. Just name the directory file "main.dir", and the
host will use it.
3. If you use the "dir.dat" file, you must also use the file called
"dirlist". This file is the menu that will be displayed whenever a
caller chooses to view the description files, and should contain the list
of files with their corresponding number. An ansi directory menu file
may also be used and must be called "dirlistg". Ansi colors are
automatically added to "dirlist" if this file is not present.
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4. A Recent Uploads file should also be created and must be
called "new.dir". This file is where the descriptions of files
uploaded by callers will be added. It is recommended that files be
rotated out of the Recent Uploads directory after about a week's time,
but that is up to the SysOp.
5. A directory of all text files that are available for view by
callers is also necessary. This file is called "text.dir", and
contains a list of the files and descriptions of text files inside the
file "text.zip".
6. Once the data file has been setup and each description file has been
created, the Host Filer (F6) will recognize your setup and allow you to
edit and modify these files when necessary. All files must be in the
Telix directory.
7. Ansi colors are added to the description files automatically, so a
separate ansi file is not necessary.
INSTALLING BULLETINS - The set-up for bulletins is similar to the set-
up for directories and is done as follows:
1. If you wish to use only one bulletin file, name it "bulletin", and
the Host will display it when a caller selects the view bulletins
option. An ansi bulletin may also be displayed for callers who choose
color. This file must be called "bullting".
2. If you wish to set-up multiple bulletins, you must use a data file
identical to the directory data file. Enter each bulletin's name and
number in the file "bulletin.dat".
3. If you are using multiple bulletins, you must modify the file
"bulllist", which is the menu displayed to callers that shows the
available bulletins, and their corresponding number The file
"bulllist.g" may also be used to display a color bulletin menu. Ansi
colors are automatically added if this file is not found.
4. Create each bulletin with your text editor, and put them in the
host directory. Ansi is added automatically to the bulletins unless
you wish to make separate ansi bulletins. You may do this by adding a
"g" to the end of the bulletin file name. For example, the ansi
bulletin for the file "rules", should be "rulesg".
5. Once all of this has been completed, your bulletins, menu, and data
file may be modified in the SysOp's Utilities Window (F5) at the waiting
for call screen.
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INSTALLING DOORS - The set-up of doors is also similar to the set-up of
bulletins and directories, and is done as follows:
1. If you wish to have only one door on-line, then create a file
called "door.bat" that will run the door. "Door.bat" will be run
whenever a caller chooses the (O)pen Door option.
2. If you wish to use multiple doors, modify the file "door.dat" with
the batch file name and corresponding number of each door.
3. Also modify the door menu file "doorlist", which is displayed to
the caller when the (O)pen Door option is chosen. The file
"doorlist.g" may be used to create a color door menu to callers. Ansi
colors are automatically added if this file is not found.
4. Create the batch file for each door to be run. "Fishing.bat" is an
example of a batch file for an RBBS door.
5. Once the above has been accomplished, the door batch files, menu,
and data file may be modified from the SysOp's Utilities window (F5) at
the waiting for call screen.
6. Two files are created when a door is opened, "Door.sys" which is
recognized by Doorway only, and "dorinfo1.def" which is recognized by
RBBS compatible doors.
USING THE HOST UTILITIES - By Pressing the F5 key at the waiting for
caller screen, the SysOp may enter the Host Utilities area. In this
area the SysOp may choose from 10 different utility functions (A-J).
╔══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
║ ║
║ ║
║ Sysop's Host Utilities ║
║ ║
║ ║
║ A> List Caller's Log F> Edit Door List ║
║ ║
║ B> Edit Messages G> Edit Door Batch Files ║
║ ║
║ C> Edit Bulletin List H> Edit Door Data File ║
║ ║
║ D> Edit Bulletins I> Test-Run Door ║
║ ║
║ E> Edit Bulletin Data File J> DOS Command Line ║
║ ║
║ ║
║ Choose a Utility Option? <Enter>=quit -> ║
║ ║
║ ║
╚══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝
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(A) - List Caller's Log. This option will use V. Buerg's List program
to view the Host caller's log. A copy of List.com must be present in
the host directory or in the system's path. The latest version of List
is LIST75A.ZIP, and is available on most BBS's.
(B) - Edit Messages. This option will use the text editor defined in
Telix to edit the Host's public message base. Messages may then be
corrected, modified or deleted by the SysOp. To delete a message in
the base simply delete the entire message along with the "To:, From:,
etc." header. Also, the data line that comes immediately before the
header must be deleted. This data line will look something like this:
";;;02;00012". Although it is not crucial, no spaces should be left
between the messages. Messages with data lines that look like this,
"D;;02;00012", have been marked for deletion by a caller. These messages
can be deleted automatically with the PACK.EXE program (see PACK.DOC).
(C) - Press C to bring up the bulletin menu file in your text editor.
This is the file that shows callers the bulletins available for view.
If this file is modified, and you are also using the file "bulllist.g"
to display a color menu, you will have to make the necessary changes to
it also.
(D) - Option D will allow the editing of each bulletin that is set-up
in the bulletin data file (bulletin.dat). First you will be displayed
the bulletin menu, from which you must select which bulletin to edit.
(E) - Option E allows will bring up the bulletin data file in your text
editor. This is the file that tells the host, which bulletins to read,
and their respective numbers.
(F) - Option F will allow the editing of the door menu file "doorlist".
This is the menu of all doors available for callers, and is displayed
when a caller enters "O" for open door. If you are using the file
"doorlist.g"
(G) - Choosing option G will allow you to edit any of your batch files
that execute doors. The Host will display your door menu, in order for
you to select the batch file to edit, and will then bring up the batch
file you choose in your text editor.
(H) - Option H allow you to edit the door data file, which contains the
number and name of each door available for callers to use.
(I) - This option will test-run any of the doors that you have set-up
in the door data file. It will display your door menu, and ask you to
select a door to test-run. Once you have done this it will run the
door's batch file, and allow you to test your set-up and installation
of doors.
(J) - DOS Command Line - This option will allow the SysOp to run a
specific application without dropping to DOS. A Drop to DOS may be
accomplished by pressing the <Enter> or <ESC> key from the DOS command
Line, however.
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USING THE HOST FILER - By pressing the F6 key at the waiting for caller
screen, the SysOp may enter the Host Filer area. In this area the
SysOp may choose from 10 different Filer options also (A-J).
╔══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
║ ║
║ Executive Host Filer ║
║ ║
║ A> Add New Files to Dir File F> Verify Dir File ║
║ ║
║ B> Auto-Describe Dir File G> Sort Dir File ║
║ ║
║ C> Edit Directory List H> Run Editor ║
║ ║
║ D> Edit Directories I> Run List.com ║
║ ║
║ E> Edit Directory Data File J> DOS Command Line ║
║ ║
║ ║
║ Choose a Filer Option? <Enter>=quit -> ║
║ ║
║ ║
╚══════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝
(A) - The "Add new files to dir file" option allows the SysOp to add
one or more new files that he has acquired to a description file. The
SysOp will be asked for the path of the new programs first. For example
"A:*.zip" may be entered. Then the SysOp will be asked which description
file to add the new programs to. The file adder will add these programs
to the description file and allow the manual entry of descriptions by the
SysOp. Also remember to sort the description file after the new files have
been added (Option G). The new files must of course be copied into the
main or uploads directory in order to be available for downloading.
(B) - The "Auto-Describe Dir File" option will add descriptions to your
description files from an existing file list. The description file must be
in the correct format (PCB), however the search file may be in any
popular bbs format i.e. PCB, RBBS, dBBS, etc. The SysOp will be asked
for the source file name, which is the name of the description file that
needs descriptions added. Next the name of the search file to be used
must be entered. Both files must be sorted alphabetically prior to using
this option. A .bak file of the description file is created in case
something goes wrong. All files must be in the Telix (Host) directory.
(C-E) - Allows the editing of directory files, the directory menu file,
and the directory data file.
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(F) - Verify Dir File - This option will verify that all the files in a
directory file really exist in either the main or uploads directories.
If you have a dir file with 75 files, a successful verification result
would look like this:
75 files processed.
0 files not found.
(G) - Sort Dir File - This option will sort a directory file using the
batch file "sortit.bat". The DOS programs "sort.com" and "find.com"
called by the default batch file. Both of these files must be in the
system's path and come with your DOS package. A custom sort procedure
may be used by modifying the file "sortit.bat" which contains the
default parameters.
Dir files should always be sorted in order to give callers an
orderly display of files available for download. Also, dir files must
be sorted prior to using the "auto-describe dir file" option in the
Host Filer. To sort a file from the dos prompt, simply type
"sortit [name of dir file]".
(H) - Run Editor - This option simply runs the editor defined in Telix
without a file name.
(I) - Run List - This option will run V. Buerg's List.com program if
it is present in the system's path.
(J) - DOS command Line - This option is identical to option "J" in the
Host Utilities area. You may enter a dos command to be executed, or
press <Enter> or <Esc> to drop to DOS.
DOWNLOADING - Downloading may take place from either the main or
uploads directories, and all files in either of these directories are
always available for download by all callers. The SysOp may of course
enter a full path and download from anywhere on the system. If you are
having drive space problems, and have two partitions, you may place the
main directory on one drive and the uploads directory on another. This
way you can split up the files into the two directories and better
manage your hard-disk space.
UPLOADING - Files uploaded by all callers will be sent to the uploads
directory. In addition the "uploads.bat" file will be run if it
exists. This batch file could perform various virus checking
functions, and integrity checks on the uploaded file(s). The SysOp may
include a full path when uploading, and the file can be sent anywhere
on the system.
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IMPORTANT FILES TO BECOME FAMILIAR WITH - The following files are used
in the day to day operation of the Host and their structure and format
should be studied by the SysOp. If they should ever become corrupted
or deleted, your knowledge of their structure will ensure that you will
be back on-line quickly.
exechost.usr - The Guest List containing the name, password, and
security levels of all callers.
exechost.cnf - The Host configuration data file
execmail.dat - The public message base data file.
message.txt - The public message base.
Other important files:
#.mes - Private messages to callers.
exechost.log - Host usage log - contains registration information of
callers.
sortit.bat - batch file used by Directory Sort option in Filer.
drop.bat - batch file used for remote drop to DOS.
upload.bat - batch file run whenever a caller uploads a file.
event.bat - batch file run as an "event" at 12 pm every night.
board.bat - runs Executive Host.
bimodem.bat - runs the optional Bimodem protocol program.
dir.dat - data file of directory files.
door.dat - data file of door batch files.
bulletin.dat - data file of bulletin files available for view.
callers.dat - data file recording on-line time used by callers.
bulllist - bulletin menu file displayed to callers.
bulllist.g - ansi version of bulllist.
dirlist - directory file menu displayed to callers.
dirlistg - ansi version of dirlist.
doorlist - door menu file displayed to callers.
doorlist.g - ansi version of doorlist.
open - ascii file displayed when caller first logs on.
openg - ansi version of open file.
news - news file that is displayed immediately following
open/openg.
newsg - ansi version of news file.
info - file displayed when a caller chooses I)nfo on Host.
infog - ansi version of info file.
goodbye - file displayed when caller logs off.
goodbyeg - ansi version of goodbye.
newuser - file displayed after a new caller registers.
newuserg - ansi version of newuser file.
LIMITS - The following are limits of Executive Host in version 1.3.
999 Registered Callers.
99 Program Description files.
99 Bulletins.
99 Doors.
99,999 Messages in public message base.
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SUPPORT - Support for Executive Host is available on 2 different
boards, 24 hours a day.
Micro-Mart BBS, (618) 529-4457 (19200,N,8,1).
Micro-Mart BBS is run by Jay Fuller, owner-operator of Micro-Mart Computer
Center, and the Micro-Mart BBS Network. There are over 40,000 files
available on 2 nodes including CD-Rom, and multiple doors and conferences.
Lake of Egypt BBS, (618) 995-2188 (2400,N,8,1).
The Lake of Egypt BBS has a share-ware file base of over 10,000 files
including CD-Rom, and multiple doors and conferences. Bob Coffey is your
SysOp.
Support is also available on Compuserve in the IBMBBS area (76605,1310).
The author checks this conference weekly. Do not leave private E-mail,
as this defeats the purpose of a public support conference.
Priority of support will always go to Registered Executive Host SysOp's.
SPECIAL DEAL! - For a special price of only $59.00, you will receive a
registered copy of Executive Host, PLUS a one-year subscription to the
the Micro-Mart BBS. Micro-Mart BBS operates at 19200/1200 baud, and has a
file base of over 40,000 files. Not to mention access to hundreds of
on-line doors, and the Micro-Mart electronic store. You will be given 60
minutes access every day, and unlimited downloads. Send a check or money
order to the author, or for immediate registration, use your
Visa, MS, or Discover to charge on-line at the Micro-Mart BBS,
Support Board at (618) 529-4457. This offer is for new members only.
*** REGISTER EXECUTIVE HOST ON-LINE WITH YOUR VISA/MASTERCARD/DISCOVER CARD
ON ANY OF THE SUPPORT BULLETIN BOARDS. ORDERS ARE USUALLY PROCESSED AND
AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD WITHIN 24 HOURS. FOREIGN CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED.
Thank you and enjoy Executive Host.