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Text File
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1992-12-08
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4KB
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97 lines
JAM 1.10 Copyright (c) Dec 6, 1992 All Rights Reserved
Welcome to JAM.
This project started out as a test for a new idea for a graphics
compressor. We never intended to release it, but it worked quite a bit better
than we had initially anticipated. So we decided to share this design with
the public.
Please realize that this is not a fully developed version. We just wanted
to allow the public a glimpse of what is planned for the future. This is the
second shareware release of JAM. We completely redesigned our compression
algorithm to yield much better quality.
WHAT IS JAM ?
JAM is a lossy graphics compression program that uses a block of pixels
of user defined size. Within this block, the user also specifies the number
of colors to be used. From this information, the program uses our
proprietary compression routines to compress the image. JAM always maintains
the graphic as a 24-bit image, unlike some other graphics compression schemes.
Also, unlike many other graphics compression schemes, the compressed JAM file
can be further compressed by standard file compression methods (i.e. ZIP,
ARC, ZOO).
SO WHAT DOES JAM 1.10 DO ?
This version of JAM will only compress 24-bit TGA files. It also will
only uncompress the JAM file to a 24-bit TGA file. You may specify the size
of the block of pixels from 2 to 8. The number of colors may be either
2, 4, 8, or 16. Included with this document should be 4 executable files:
JAM286, JAM386, and the UNJAM versions.
SO WHAT DOES THE REGISTERED VERSION DO ?
First, the registered version has no annoying delays or registration
messages. Other than that, the registered version is essentially the same
as the unregistered version. We did not want to release crippled software
like many other shareware authors do. But if you like the program, and want
us to continue its development, please take the time to register.
WHY ELSE WOULD YOU WANT TO BECOME A REGISTERED USER ?
Hey, it's only seven bucks (including shipping). Also, you will be
mailed notices of all new program upgrades as they become available and offers
for special discounts on the upgrades. Others will only get this information
through word of mouth (without the special prices, of course). You also get
unlimited technical support by snail-mail or by e-mail. Please send any
suggestions, comments, or bug reports.
SO HOW DO I REGISTER ?
To get JAM 1.20 (the registered version of 1.10), please send $7
($5 + $2 shipping) to:
JAM 1.20 Registration
J. Russell Cook
18 Countryside Drive
Jackson, TN 38305
But, if you want the super-duper, all-new version of JAM 2.00 (to be
released February 1993), please send $27 ($25 + $2 shipping) to the above
address.
For comments, suggestions, bug reports, or help on JAM, I may be
contacted through InterNet during school terms. My e-mail address is:
JRC4961@tntech.edu
WHAT WILL JAM 2.0 DO ?
- variable sizes for the blocks of pixels (3x2, 5x8, ...)
- larger block sizes (9, 10, 11, ...)
- color options like 32, 64, 128, ...
- input and output of GIF files (maybe others too)
- an improved dithering routine to disperse the blockiness of larger
matrices
- the ability to use a lossless compression after JAMing
- improved command line interface
- more and better compress time statistics
- wildcard file JAM and UNJAM (*.*)
- command line options saved to an optional configuration file
- faster compression and decompression routines
DISCLAIMER (THE USUAL STUFF)
Use of this program signifies agreement with all terms contained in
this disclaimer. The authors will not be responsible for any damage caused
by this program. Its use is at your own risk.
TRADEMARKS
Any trademarks mentioned in this file are owned by their respective
companies. We in no way are attempting to claim their ownership or to
question their validity.