Nebula/nebula.bin/Newsletters/NeXTNuggetNewsDigest/vol.04.07.txt

Text File | 1993-01-27 | 20KB | 565 lines

NeXT Nugget News Digest (vol. 4, issue 7,  July 30, 1992)

This is vol. 4, issue 7 of the 1992 NeXT NUGGET NEWS DIGEST - a
collection of items of interest for NeXT User Group members.

Please direct your comments and feedback on the content of
this NeXT news to: [e-mail].

Previous Nugget Digests are located in the /pub/next/Newletters/Nugget
directory on the Purdue archive server site: sonata.cc.purdue.edu.


Conrad Geiger
Manager, International NeXT User Groups


__________________________________________________________________

TABLE OF CONTENTS


    I. Metrosoft announces MetroTracks, pro audio software for NeXT
   II. NeXTSTEP Developer Camp in Colorado in August
  III. NeXTSTEP Release 3.0 Fact Sheet
   IV. NeXT Support Center Recent mailing
    V. IMMEDIATE OPENING IN LOS ANGELES - SYBASE ARCHITECT
   VI. NeXT Programmers wanted in Northeast US
  VII. NeXTSTEP experience needed in Texas
 VIII. American University Newsroom Manager Position
   IX. Mesa Spreadsheet beta available from Athena Design
    X. Announcing Upstart, from Highland Digital



____________________________________________________________________

I.  Metrosoft announces MetroTracks,  pro audio software for NeXT

San Diego, CA, June 15, 1992 - Metrosoft announced today that it is
developing MetroTracks, the first commercial multitrack audio
software for NeXT workstations, running NeXTSTEP 3.0.

A NeXT workstation equipped with MetroTracks and any of several
analog or digital audio front ends provides users with a
full-featured digital audio workstation capable of recording, mixing
and editing CD-quality sound plus MIDI data.  A MetroTracks recording
can contain up to 32 virtual tracks in any combination of audio and
MIDI and as many as 8 tracks can be mixed simultaneously, depending
on the user's hardware configuration. While MetroTracks takes full
advantage of the current NeXT hardware, its architecture is
expandable to utilize any future NeXT hardware directions.

"MetroTracks provides users with a seamless integration of MIDI and
recorded audio," said Gordon Van Huizen, President of Metrosoft.
"In addition, a complete system built around a NeXT computer and
MetroTracks costs users considerably less than alternatives on
other platforms, yet contains remarkable sophistication and polish."

MetroTracks is scalable, yielding increasing real-time control as
users add processing horsepower.  MetroTracks includes digital
effects which can be applied to recorded tracks including digital
delay, reverb, chorusing, pitch shift, and amplitude
compression/expansion.

MetroTracks can output to DAT recorders and conventional audio
devices, and is compatible with many of the leading NeXT third party
audio hardware products, including Singular Solutions' A/D64x
interface, Ariel Corporation's Digital Microphone and ProPort
products, Quest  Inc.'s Midi Link converters,  and Metaresearch
Inc's. Digital Ears.

"An entry-level NeXT system, out of the box, provides users with a
rich set of built-in digital and audio capabilities," said Robert
Poor, Developer Advocate, NeXT Computer.  "MetroTracks promises to
complete that solution, turning a NeXT system into an integrated
digital/audio workstation, and at a fraction of the cost of other
platforms."

MetroTracks is in alpha testing now and will be in beta by the end of
July.  The product is expected to ship in September and retail for
$XXX with educational, developer and quantity discounts available.

Metrosoft is a San Diego based company specializing in the
development of multimedia applications for desktop workstations.


Mary

Email: [e-mail]

___________________________________________________________________


II.  NeXTSTEP Developer Camp in Colorado

        Vacation in Beautiful Colorado and attend one of the first
              NeXTSTEP 3.0 DEVELOPERS CAMPS in August 1992


The University of Denver will be sponsoring and hosting a NeXTSTEP
3.0 in  August in Denver, Colorado.

    AUG. 17 - 20 (definite)
    AUG. 31 - SEPT. 3 (if demand warrants)

* Want to actually see and use Distributed Objects in an
  Object-Oriented Toolkit now?
  NeXTSTEP 3.0 has it.

* Want to see and use an Interactive 3D Renderman in an
  Object-Oriented Toolkit? Integrated with Color PostScript Level 2
  and printable?
  NeXTSTEP 3.0 has it.

* Want to see and use Object-Oriented Reuse of Design--It's a
  protocol extension to Objective C?
  NeXTSTEP 3.0 has it.

* Want to see and use a Database Independent Object-Oriented DB forms
  capability in an Object-Oriented toolkit?
  NeXTSTEP 3.0 DB Kit has it.

* Want to see and use the first Display PostScript Level 2?
  NeXTSTEP 3.0 has it.


Unfortunately, some of these areas are too involved & complex to
cover in a 4-day course (for example, NeXT will be offering a
separate 2-day in DB Kit). However, you will see bits and pieces of
the new features in the 4-day course.

The NeXTSTEP 3.0 Developers Camp will be taught by Dave J. Besemer,
a certified NeXT Trainer. The cost is $XXX.

Additional information and the registration materials can be
e-mailed with the PostScript attachment. Please call or e-mail
request/questions to:

    Bob Gregory at 303-733-6573
    e-mail: [e-mail] (NeXTmail OK)

Economical dormitory rooms are available for out of town guests.

___________________________________________________________________


III. NeXTSTEP Release 3.0 Fact Sheet


Product Overview:

NeXTSTEP Release 3.0 is a new generation of NeXTSTEP object-oriented
system software.  NeXTSTEP, the only object-oriented system software
currently shipping, greatly speeds the development of
mission-critical custom applications up to five times faster than
with competing environments.  In addition, the NeXTSTEP graphical
user interface lets mere mortal users take advantage of the powerful
custom and shrink-wrapped applications written for the platform.

Among the most significant enhancements of NeXTSTEP Release 3.0 are
additional software objects that commercial and in-house developers
can use to create their applications.  Release 3.0 bundles three
major new object kits, and third-party developers already market more
than 100 additional objects aimed at a wide range of specialized
tasks.  Because NeXTSTEP is completely object-oriented, all these new
objects fit seamlessly into the development environment, making the
real promises of object-oriented computing available for the first
time on any commercial platform.

NeXTSTEP Release 3.0 also adds a number of new connectivity,
communications and other standards to the already standards-rich
environment of NeXTSTEP Release 2.


Highlights of NeXTSTEP Release 3.0:

 - New objects for the NeXTSTEP library, plus enhanced
    object-oriented technologies

 - Database Kit (DBKit), which provides a single, consistent
    interface to SQL databases from multiple vendors; extends the
    power of NeXTSTEP's object-oriented capabilities to the
    development of database applications

 - 3D Graphics Kit (3DKit), based on the RenderMan standard for
    photorealistic rendering and interactive manipulation of 3D
    models, enables easy integration of three-dimensional graphics
    into existing NeXTSTEP applications

 - Distributed Objects, which extends the simple yet powerful
    messaging model used between objects within a NeXTSTEP
    application to messaging between different applications and
    across a network

 - Object Links, a multimedia hyperlinking system based on
    Distributed Objects that enables documents to share dynamic
    information

 - PhoneKit, for taking advantage of high-speed voice and data
    transmission over ISDN as well as analog lines

 - Even more support for standards

 - Bundled Novell Client and AppleShare Client software, for
    accessing file servers and PostScript printers on NetWare and
    AppleTalk networks

 - Macintosh file system support

 - Improvements to DOS file system support

 - ISDN networking support (with inexpensive external hardware by
    Hayes Microcomputer)

 - CD-ROM support (includes ISO 9660, High Sierra, RockRidge and
    Macintosh formats)

 - PostScript Level 2 integration, which adds support for calibrated
    color output, imaging filters for faster printing and pattern
    support

 - Pantone Matching System, the premier standard for specifying
    colors in printed output

 - Expanded ability to share files, printers (from various vendors),
    fax modems and CD-ROM drives among networked users

 - Seamless client operation with all leading high-quality servers
    (e.g., Auspex, DEC, Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Pyramid, Sequent, Sun,
    Teradata)

 - Global computing, automatically

 - Integrated foreign language support, so that all applications
    shipped with NeXTSTEP computers to be set by the user for
    English, French, German, Italian, Spanish or Swedish (in Japan,
    NeXTSTEP users will be able to work in both English and Japanese)

 - Other enhancements

 - Integration with NeXT's 360 dpi, four-color Color Printer

 - An integrated, multimedia on-line hypertext Help system

 - Multimedia file compression

 - Additional network administration tools



Compatibility:  Any application written under NeXTSTEP Release 2 will
run in Release 3.0, and will automatically take advantage of many
Release 3.0 features.

Availability:  August, 1992

Pricing:  Included automatically with all NeXT computers shipped
after August

Upgrade Pricing:  $XXX - for registered owners of NeXTSTEP 2

Media:  Installed on the hard disk of all computers shipped with
NeXTSTEP 3.0; also included on a CD-ROM disk for back-up. Upgrades
shipped on CD-ROM disk or as a right-to-use license.


___________________________________________________________________

IV.  NeXT Support Center Recent mailing

The following message was recently delivered to all authorized
NeXT Support Centers...

Dear NeXT Authorized Support Center,

In a continued commitment to leading edge technology and streamlined
manufacturing, NeXT has updated the CPU board used in the 25 MHz
NeXTstation. All 25 MHz NeXTstations (part number N1100-1768) are
now built around the new board which uses the same memory sub-system as NeXT
Turbo systems. The board features the TMC (turbo memory controller)
and PC (peripheral controller) chips which control all memory and
I/O, including display.

Standardizing on only one base monochrome CPU board provides NeXT
far better manufacturing economies. The new board also results in
slightly higher system performance and allows a maximum possible
memory capacity of 128 MB vs. the old board's 32 MB limit.


A Different Type of SIMM

The new 25 MHz NeXTstation board requires different SIMMs than the
old version.  Like the NeXT Turbo systems, the 25 MHz NeXTstation's
CPU board includes four memory sockets which require 72 pin, 70
nanosecond SIMMs.  Both single and double-sided SIMMs are compatible.

This memory architecture also makes it possible to upgrade all new
NeXTstations and all NeXTstation Turbos, NeXTstation Turbo Colors,
and NeXTcube Turbos in two-SIMM increments. The 8MB and 16MB versions
ship with two open SIMM sockets for easy expansion.

Identifying the Computer's SIMM Type

NeXT began shipping the new 25 MHz NeXTstation CPU board in late
June. All system serial numbers higher than ABB0028000 include the
new boards. A few systems shipped in late June with lower serial
numbers also include the  new boards.

To verify which SIMM type a machine uses, check the system's memory
configuration. This can be accomplished by using the ROM monitor's
print memory configuration command m.

   - Start with the machine powered down.
   - Press the Power key to power on.
   - As soon as the message *Testing system...: disappears, press
         command-command-tilde (~ on the numeric keyboard). Under
         these circumstances, this will access the ROM monitor.
   - In the ROM monitor, type m and press Return.

Turbo-designed boards including new 25 MHz NeXTstations and all
Turbo systems return messages reporting memory configuration
contained in four sockets (sockets 0 -3); old 25 MHz boards return
messages for more than four sockets. A Turbo-designed board is
identified by the fact it reports information for only four sockets.

Please feel free to contact us at 1-800-848-NeXT if you have any
questions.  We thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,
NeXT Computer, Inc.

_________________________________________________________________

V.  IMMEDIATE OPENING IN LOS ANGELES - SYBASE ARCHITECT


Pencom Systems Incorporated, a nationwide Unix software services
company, has a full time postion to re-architect an existing large
scale end user database to a client/server environment running Sybase
on IBM RS/6000's and NeXT workstations.  The position has the
following requirements:

        * 5+ years of Unix experience
        * 3+ years of Sybase or other major RDBMS programming
          in SQL and 4GL
        * 5+ years of C programming
        * DB architect and designer required
        * Project leadership skills, a plus
        * NeXT experience, a plus
        * Business systems analysis

Please reply to:

                   Steve Koutros
                        Pencom Systems Incorporated
                        150 Broadway, Suite 600
                        New York, New York  10038
                        Ma Bell: [phone]
                        Ma Fax : [phone]
                        Ma Net : [e-mail]




_____________________________________________________________

VI.  NeXT Programmers wanted in Northeast US


WANTED: NeXT programmers for a 4 month contract position (guaranteed)
        with a possibility of longterm (2 year+) job(s).

EXPERIENCE DESIRED:
    Distributed object-oriented programming and NeXT architecture
    (software)

PROJECT:
    FORTUNE 500 company for LARGE NeXT application

LOCATION:
    Northeast US


CONTACTS:

      Glenda Maddox & Carol McDaniels
          MADDOX, INC
         [phone] (phone)
         [phone] (FAX)

___________________________________________________________________

VII.  NeXTSTEP experience needed in Texas

                Experienced NeXT Software Developers


We are interested in hearing from individuals who are experienced
NeXT software development engineers and would like to explore
opportunities in our software development group.

Interested persons must have a minimum of 2 years experience working
in a NeXT environment, and have excellent software design and
development skills.

Interested persons should also have experience in a number of the
following areas: object-oriented design, object-oriented programming,
Objective-C, Mach/NeXTStep.


        Respond directly via U.S mail, FAX or EMail:

        Tony Gibson
        XGS Corporation
        4050 INFOMART
        1950 Stemmons Freeway
        Dallas, Tx 75207

        FAX: [phone]

        Email: [e-mail] { ...uunet!xgs.com!hresrc }



__________________________________________________________________

VIII.  American University Newsroom Manager Position

The School of Communications at American University is looking for
a Manager for their new Newsroom.  The Newsroom is composed of 45
Turbo NeXTstations that will be primarily using Wordperfect,
Framemaker, Improv and (probably) Livewire.  The Lab will be internet
connected and running off of a NeXTcube 32meg / 2+ gig server.

The Managers responsibilities will be (of course) the Newsroom, as
well as training faculty/staff/students in the use of the lab.

The applicants will need to have a minimum of a Bachelors Degree.

The job at this time is expected to be a Grade 5, which means that
the low salary end is 27k.  Some of the benefits are 21 days
vacation, 10 holidays and 2 variable holidays.  3 medical plans,
Kaiser, Capitalcare and Mass Mutual.  2-for-1 investment plan (you
put in $1, AU puts in $2).  Full tuition benefits up to 8 hours per
semester immediately for self, spouse and children.  Life insurance,
dental available, etc...

The position will be hired within the month.  The NeXTs have already
arrived, and the renovations to create the newsroom will be completed
at month end.

If you are interested, or know if anyone (you can forward this email)
please contact the following...

      Patrick Martin
      Assistant to the Dean
      School of Communications
      The American University
      Washington, DC  20016-8017
      [phone]

and

      Jan Brown
      Human Resources Development
      The American University
      Washington, DC  20016-8054
      [phone]

___________________________________________________________________

IX.  Mesa Spreadsheet beta available from Athena Design


From: [e-mail] (David Pollak)

Athena Design has placed Beta Version 2 of Mesa, the spreadsheet for
NeXTstep, on the archives on the internet.

It has been placed in the submissions directories at:

     sonata.cc.purdue.edu    128.210.15.30
     nova.cc.purdue.edu      128.210.7.22
     cs.orst.edu             128.193.32.1
     etlport.etl.go.jp       192.31.197.99


We have added significantly more functionality to the macro execution
engine thanks to a number of wk1 files sent to us.

The charting has been expanded through the addition of the XY chart
type, a better graph inspector, multiple data ranges, additional
titles that can appear on the charts, legends, etc. (Thanks in large
part to Paul Howell for suggestions on the graphs.)

You can also print reports from custom apps.  What this means is the
Mesa can now be the charting engine for a custom app (just pump the
data in and grab a chart out) or a report engine (build the report
using Mesa's visual report builder, pump data in, and print the
report.)


We will officially announce Mesa on August 4th at a Boston Computer
Society meeting (MIT Room 6-120 at 7pm.)  For those who will be in
town for MacWorld, please come by the announcement.

Please use the program and get back to us with feedback.  Our e-mail
address [e-mail].

The Beta Version is solid and has many demonstration sheets not to
mention a 100+ page user's guide.  We hope you enjoy the program.
___________________________________________________________________

X. Announcing Upstart, from Highland Digital

A new hardware and software product for the NeXT computers that
allows you to use your NeXT workstations without a monitor, keyboard,
or mouse.

Upstart is designed for networked environments in which NeXT
computers can be used as "headless" or monitor-less disk or printer
servers.

Upstart is composed of two parts, a hardware and a software
component. The hardware is a simple switch that attaches to the
monitor port. The software configures the system to boot and function
properly without a monitor.

Key Benefits:

Eliminates the need for purchasing a monitor and keyboard in order to
power up your machine.

Provides a way to inexpensively dedicate a NeXT machine as a print or
file server.

Improves server security by eliminating keyboard and monitor.

Easy to install and use. One button click configuration.

Compatibility:

Upstart is compatible with all monochrome NeXTcubes and NeXTstations.
A special Upstart color kit is available for NeXTstation Color
computers.

Upstart requires NeXTstep 2.0 or greater.



Pricing and Availability:
$XXX, currently shipping

Contact Highland Digital, NeXT Marketing Department
ph: 415-493-8550    fx: 415-493-4506

Highland Digital
1001 Elwell Ct.
Palo Alto, California 94043
NeXT mail: [e-mail]

_________________________________________________________________
end