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COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories ----------------------------------------- COM-AND: Communications and integrated communications accessories for the IBM PC ----------------------------------------- COM-AND version 2.9 is copyright 1992 by CABER Software. It is distributed freely and may be copied by anyone for any number of machines, for purposes of evaluation. The author offers COM-AND and its accessory programs as a package, as "shareware". If you USE COM-AND after evaluating it, you MUST pay for it. The complete user license and registration information is to be found in the file REGISTER.DOC. Limitations on redistribution of COM-AND are set out in the file VENDOR.DOC. These two files are included with the COM-AND program release. CABER Software R. (Scott) McGinnis P.O. Box 3607 Mdse Mart Chicago, IL 60654-0607 GEnie, Delphi: TARTAN CIS .......... 73147,2665 Internet ..... 73147.2665@compuserve.com Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories COM-AND version 2.9 is copyright 1992 by CABER Software. All rights are reserved world wide, excepting redistribution under the shareware concept. COM-AND is distributed freely and may be copied by anyone for any number of machines, for purposes of evaluation. Restrictions on redistribution are set out in the document file VENDOR.DOC. You may NOT distribute COM-AND or its documentation in connection with ANY commercial venture, product, publication or service without written approval from CABER Software. COM-AND is distributed as shareware. You may try COM-AND without charge, to evaluate its usefulness to you. You may evaluate COM-AND for a period of up to 30 days. If you continue to use COM-AND after 30 days, then you must pay for it. Please read REGISTER.DOC for the terms and conditions of the User License. Additional benefits are available when you register COM-AND. These values include: . A free Compuserve intro-pack . The Compuserve Automation script-set for COM-AND . A tailored dialing directory for your area code . Discounts on shareware magazines and books These offers are discussed in detail in REGISTER.DOC. A simple registration form is provided in the file REGISTER.FRM. Please print this form (or use REGISTER.CMD to print it), and include the form with your payment. The author supports COM-AND through electronic mail on the various on-line services. Several BBSes focused on COM-AND exist at this time. Voice support for COM-AND is also available from Support EtCetera in Long Beach, CA. Please read REGISTER.DOC for details on support, and COM-AND BBSes. CABER Software is a member of the Association of Shareware Profes- sionals (ASP). The ASP offers an ombudsman service to help you resolve shareware related disputes with ASP members. Please read the file REGISTER.DOC for information on how to contact the ASP Ombudsman. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Table of Contents ----------------- I. Introduction .............................................. page 1 A. What is COM-AND ......................................... page 1 B. Version 2? .............................................. page 2 C. This document ........................................... page 2 II. Running the program ....................................... page 3 III. CRT Display ............................................... page 6 IV. Accessory Programs ......................................... page 8 V. Menu mode .................................................. page 10 VI. Commands: available in CRT and accessory modes ............. page 12 VII. Commands: CRT mode only .................................... page 15 VIII. Commands: Accessory only ................................... page 18 IX. Dialing (Alt-D, Alt-R and Alt-H) ........................... page 19 A. Dialing (Alt-D) ......................................... page 19 B. Dialing directory maintenance (Alt-D) ................... page 20 C. Redial (Alt-R) .......................................... page 22 D. Hangup (Alt-H) .......................................... page 23 E. A note on modem speed ................................... page 23 X. Macros (Alt-M and Alt-0/9) ................................. page 24 A. Revise entry (0-9) ...................................... page 24 B. Load a new file (Alt-M subcommand F) .................... page 25 C. Clear entries (Alt-M subcommand C) ...................... page 26 D. Execute entry (Alt-0 through Alt-9) ..................... page 26 XI. Encryption/Decryption (Alt-N) .............................. page 27 XII. Program Configuration (Alt-S, Alt-P, Alt-O and Alt-J) ...... page 30 A. Setup (Alt-S) ........................................... page 30 B. Communications Parameters (Alt-P) ....................... page 34 C. Options (Alt-O) ......................................... page 36 D. Colors (Alt-J) .......................................... page 43 XIII. File Transfer (PgUp, PgDn, Alt-F, F4) ...................... page 44 A. XMODEM Up/Download ...................................... page 46 B. YMODEM Up/Download ...................................... page 47 C. ZMODEM Up/Download ...................................... page 48 D. KERMIT Up/Download ...................................... page 49 E. CIS-B and B+ Up/Download ................................ page 50 Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Table of Contents ----------------- XIII. File Transfer (continued) F. ASCII Upload ............................................ page 51 G. ASCII Download .......................................... page 53 H. File directory (Alt-F) .................................. page 54 I. Default download path (F4) .............................. page 54 XIV. Logging and Call-logging (F7, F9, Alt-U) ................... page 55 A. Disk logging [transcripting] (F7) ....................... page 58 B. Log hold [transcripting] (F9) ........................... page 58 C. Annotate call-log (Alt-U) ............................... page 58 XV. Miscellaneous Functions .................................... page 59 A. Default Drive:Subdirectory (F3) ......................... page 59 B. Keyboard display (F8) ................................... page 59 C. Chat mode (Alt-A) ....................................... page 59 D. Redisplay [backscreen] (Alt-B) .......................... page 59 E. Clear screen (Alt-C and received TOF) ................... page 60 F. Echo (Alt-E) ............................................ page 60 G. Blank line suppression (Alt-G) .......................... page 60 H. 43/25 line toggle (Alt-L) ............................... page 60 I. Kermit Parameters (Alt-K) ............................... page 60 J. Time and Alarms (Alt-T) ................................. page 61 K. Playback (Alt-W) ........................................ page 61 L. Program termination (Alt-X) ............................. page 61 M. Parity (hi-bit) mask (Alt-Z) ............................ page 62 XVI. DOS Gateway (Alt-F10) ...................................... page 63 XVII. Emulation (Alt-V) ......................................... page 64 A. Display Emulation ....................................... page 64 B. Translation ............................................. page 65 C. Remapping ............................................... page 66 D. Other related settings .................................. page 67 XVIII. Script Language ............................................ page 68 XIX. Text Editor ................................................ page 69 XX. Program Requirements ....................................... page 70 XXI. Program and Author Information ............................ page 71 Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Appendices ---------- A. Switches and Parameters .................................... page 72 B. COM-AND Error display ...................................... page 75 C. Files ...................................................... page 76 D. Windowed XMODEM (WXMODEM) .................................. page 77 E. ANSI ,VT100, and VT52 sequences ............................ page 78 1. ANSI sequences .......................................... page 78 2. VT100 sequences ......................................... page 80 3. VT52 sequences .......................................... page 82 F. Vidtex and RLE files ....................................... page 83 1. Vidtex .................................................. page 83 2. RLE Files ............................................... page 84 G. External Protocol drivers .................................. page 85 H. Modem Configuration ........................................ page 87 1. DTR (Data Terminal Ready) ............................... page 87 2. CD (Carrier Detect) ..................................... page 87 I. Environment variables ...................................... page 88 1. COM-AND= ................................................ page 88 2. COMSPEC= ................................................ page 88 3. Other variables ......................................... page 88 J. Background operation ....................................... page 90 K. Encoded music .............................................. page 91 L. BIOS Comm Read/Write ....................................... page 92 M. MODEM Initialization ....................................... page 93 N. COM-AND's Backscreen ....................................... page 96 O. Customizing COM-AND ........................................ page 97 P. BIOS (INT 14h) communications .............................. page 100 Q. 16550A(N) UARTs ............................................ page 102 R. High-Speed communications .................................. page 103 S. Doorways ................................................... page 104 T. Command Index .............................................. page 107 Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 1 I. Introduction A. What is COM-AND? COM-AND for the IBM PC and compatibles is a communications program, for use by itself, or with several integrated accessory programs (which themselves may be used independent of COM-AND). COM-AND provides standard comm program functions: a dialing directory, macros, disk logging, binary and ASCII file transfers, text editing, scripted execution and so on. Four accessories are available for use with Version 2.9 of COM- AND. These accessories are for use over conferencing services such as People/Link's PARTY, GEnie's RTC and CIS's CB: PC-VCO provides a way to 'see' and 'hear' people talking. CCHESS supports chess games with another conference user. CBRIDG supports bridge games with other conference users. CCOLOR tracks conference users, coloring each speaker's received text differently These accessories are available uploaded separately, not as a part of COM-AND's release. Please refer to the accessory documents for more detailed discussions of their function. COM-AND Version 2.9 executes as a CRT based comm program either in 25 line text mode on a CGA or monochrome screen, 25/43 line mode on an EGA display and 25/50 on a VGA. When an accessory is loaded through COM-AND (or when COM-AND is loaded by an acces- sory), most of the functions of COM-AND are available through the accessory. COM-AND and its accessories (PC-VCO, CCHESS, CBRIDG, and CCOLOR) may be copied freely and distributed to anyone for any number of machines, for purposes of evaluation. The author offers COM-AND as "shareware". If you USE COM-AND after evaluating it, you MUST pay for it. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 2 I. Introduction (continued) B. Version 2? Version 1 of this software was released in 1986 as PC-VCO. In other words, the accessory and communications programs were one single program. In 1988, version 2.0 of PC-VCO had grown to such a size that the program was split into two executable programs. From that point in time, accessories have been developed and released as indivi- dual programs, using COM-AND as a base. Version 2.9 is the tenth release. C. This document This document describes the features of COM-AND, both standard communications features and as much of the accessory program features as may be appropriate. For the most part, however, any discussion of accessory functions is limited in this document. Accessories are released separately. A detailed guide to each accessory is to be found in its own documentation. This document addresses manual use of COM-AND, and may be treated as a reference document. In this document, basic DOS skills are assumed, as well as basic telecommunications concepts. A detailed guide to installation, and an introduction to modem communication is to be found in the document INTRO.DOC. For details of COM-AND's script language, please refer to the file CASCRIPT.DOC, included with this release. The internal editor is documented in CAEDIT.DOC, included with this release. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 3 II. Running the program Generally, COM-AND is invoked at the DOS prompt with the command: ----------------------------------------------------------------- "d>" COM-AND <options> Where "d>" is the DOS prompt, and <options> is/are (<parm> (<parm> ...)) and <parm> is either a switch or a parameter Refer to Appendix A for a description of switches and parameters. ----------------------------------------------------------------- COM-AND could be invoked with a command such as: "d>" COM-AND to simply start COM-AND, or, for example, the command: "d>" COM-AND DIAL 1 to dial dialing directory entry #1 as soon as COM-AND is loaded. The command: "d>" COM-AND /FSCRIPT would be used to perform the commands contained in the file SCRIPT (or SCRIPT.CMD or SCRIPT.ENF, whichever is first in the directory). COM-AND requires no other file for its execution. It creates a parametrization file, dialing directory, and macro definition if needed. Note: Once loaded, COM-AND does not require its executable disk file again. No program disk need be retained in the default drive if loaded from floppy diskette (though it is needed again to change the dialing directory, or macro, or accessory definitions). Run-time switches and parameters are discussed in Appendix A. Files used by COM-AND are discussed in Appendix C. Default pathing of file names is discussed in Appendix I. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 4 II. Running the program (continued) The first time COM-AND is loaded, it establishes default settings (as described in Appendix A). The comm port used is the first comm port installed (if none are found, COM1 is used). On some machines, when no port is usable, COM-AND 'hangs'. If this happens, you must boot the machine and reload COM-AND thusly: "d>" COM-AND /I The /I switch directs COM-AND to NOT issue a modem initialization string. When COM-AND is loaded in this manner, the serial port is unused until a character is transmitted. Use Alt-P to change the default port (remember to save the setting). The very first time COM-AND is loaded: 1) Use DOS to move to the subdirectory where you plan to install COM-AND... where previous versions have been installed. 2) Extract the distribution files onto the selected subdirectory. Have a care not to overwrite files you want to keep! 3) Load COM-AND (as above) If COM-AND is loaded on a subdirectory where no COM-AND.DFT resides AND if the environment variable COM-AND= does not point to a subdirectory where COM-AND.DFT may be found, COM-AND creates a new .DFT file. A script named INSTALL.CMD is included with this release. When COM-AND creates its .DFT file (as opposed to updating an existing one), if the script INSTALL.CMD is available, INSTALL is invoked automatically upon completion of initialization. INSTALL takes over some of the decision process, and some of the work required to configure COM-AND for use. It is in no way necessary to the execution of COM-AND, however. INSTALL performs the following functions (all steps in INSTALL are optional): o Adds a COM-AND= environment variable to the AUTOEXEC.BAT o Sets (and searches for possible) serial ports o Sets the default speed for the serial port selected o Sets modem command strings according to modem model Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 5 II. Running the program (continued) 5) Review settings in COM-AND o Check Alt-P .. Check the COM port you use (1/2/3/4). .. Check the default speed selection. It is not important if you always use the dialing directory. Set it anyway. .. Remember to save new settings. o Check Alt-S .. Check modem strings against your particular modem, .. The backscreen buffer size defaults to 4K. You can set it up to 64K, for redisplay and transcripting. .. Remember to save the new settings. o Check Alt-O .. Set flags the way you want them (e.g. exit query on, d*mned advert off, and so on; Note BIOS/DIRECT settings) .. Remember to save new settings. 6) Review the accessories (F1). You may revise the contents of accessory definitions with the 'r' subcommand. You may want to add entries for a listing program and editor... perhaps PC-VCO... perhaps CCOLOR... 7) Exit COM-AND with Alt-X. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 6 III. CRT Display When COM-AND is loaded, a pop-up announces that initialization is occurring. Initialization of the modem is performed automatically by COM-AND. The modem initialization string specified through the Setup function (Alt-S) is issued to the modem when COM-AND is loaded, after the modem port is set to the default rate, parity, data and stop values specified (at run time or with Alt-P). Other initialization includes: looking for a mouse, and loading files (dialing directory, macro, and accessory definitions). Once initialization is complete, COM-AND enters terminal mode, and your PC serves as a 24 line (CGA and monochrome) or 24/42(50) line (EGA/VGA) CRT. The first 24(42/49) lines are a scrolling region for received text. The last line is used for program identification, status and keyboard display. Carriage return/line feed combinations received cause the text area to scroll. Text typed on the keyboard is transmitted out the COM port. What is received through the COM port is displayed on the screen. Special escape sequences are performed by COM-AND (optional). Control char- acters (except null) are displayed according to the IBM character set (optional). Received characters may be masked to 7 bits (optional). In order to connect to a host, usually the first step would be to dial a phone number to connect to a network node. For example, with a Smartmodem, the following directs the modem to dial the phone: AT E1 DT 245-9110 <return> This sequence instructs the Smartmodem to echo entry (E1) and dial using tone dialing (DT) PLINK Chicago (245-9110) as a local call. Modem initialization could be done between the E1 and DT as needed. This sequence is automated in COM-AND through a dialing directory (Alt-D). Phone numbers and parameters are maintained in the directory. The phone is dialed with the same Alt-D window. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 7 III. CRT Display (continued) Many people prefer to make connection to a host with a script, how- ever. Scripts for dialing and connecting to several popular services are included with this release of COM-AND. A script is a 'program' written for another program, in this case for COM-AND. Whether the connection is made manually or through a script, every- thing that happens appears in the text area of the CRT display. The keyboard on the IBM PC provides ordinary typewriter-like keys and other keys (e.g. F1, F2...). The 'other' keys are used by COM-AND for control purposes, as the mention of Alt-D above shows. The Alt- key, when held down while another key is pressed, is treated as a special keystroke. Press Alt-D and a window pops-up displaying the current dialing directory. Press F2 and a window pops-up to display the scripts available on the current subdirectory, and to accept a script file name to execute. The remaining chapters of this document describe the functions of COM-AND as they may be manually invoked. The internal editor is described in a separate document, CAEDIT.DOC. A separate document (SCRIPTS.DOC) summarizes the scripts released with this version of COM-AND. [An individual script may or may not have its own document covering its use.] A separate document (CASCRIPT.DOC) describes the script language and concepts. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 8 IV. Accessory Programs Released with the 2.9 version of COM-AND are four programs labelled 'accessories': PC-VCO, CCHESS, CBRIDG and CCOLOR. PC-VCO, CCHESS, CBRIDG, and CCOLOR are programs in their own right, and may be used with or without the COM-AND program (according to your preference in comm program). Accessory programs are usually loaded with COM-AND for a special purpose (such as PC-VCO: Visual Conferencing), after connection has been established through COM-AND. When COM-AND is loaded as above (i.e. "d> COM-AND"), accessories would be loaded 'on top' of COM-AND through the F1 Menu. However: the accessory program may be loaded first. When PC-VCO is run from the DOS prompt without the '/P' switch, it looks for the COM-AND program on the current subdirectory (or in the subdirectory indicated by a 'COM-AND=' environment variable). PC-VCO does not run without the '/P' switch unless it can find COM-AND. PC-VCO loads COM-AND, and the F1 menu in COM-AND is made unavailable for use. The integration of accessory programs into COM-AND means: (1) the accessory loads COM-AND if COM-AND isn't loaded already (unless you loaded the accessory "/P"), (2) COM-AND functions such as macros and dialing directory are available in the accessory when COM-AND is loaded, and (3) settings made in COM-AND carry over to the accessory when it is loaded, and settings made in the accessory carry over to COM-AND when the accessory terminates. When an accessory program loads COM-AND, COM-AND is limited to the use of a single accessory (and no other, although you may gateway to DOS). When COM-AND is loaded first, a menu of accessories, arranged somewhat like the dialing directory, is presented. One accessory after another may be selected, each new accessory selec- tion automatically terminating the previous one. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 9 IV. Accessory Programs (continued) An accessory is loaded by pressing F1, and selecting the entry you choose to execute. [The F1 menu is available only on the CRT side, and only when COM-AND is loaded first.] The F1 menu defines an accessory as: o A title which is displayed in the menu o A subdirectory for use during the accessory (optional) o A script file to perform (optional) o A program to load, along with run parameters (optional) An accessory to COM-AND, therefore, might be any COM-AND script, or most any program, or both. You are not limited to the ones coded for COM-AND. If you have a favorite editor you'd like to use to keep notes on-line, define it as an accessory... If you like to look at READMAC (or GIF) graphics during conferences, define an accessory for each of several favorite pictures... To create a new entry, use the revise subcommand ("R"). You are prompted for each of the above values. The subdirectory specified is used as the default for all program and file accesses when you invoke the accessory. The program name must be given in full (e.g. XXX.COM or YYY.EXE). Batch files are not executable as accessories (at this time); however, you may use "COMMAND.COM /C FILE.BAT" to effect the execution of a batch file. Accessories integrated into COM-AND (such as PC-VCO) permit switching between CRT and accessory modes. A loaded accessory is terminated with the "T" subcommand of F1, or by simply loading a new accessory. COM-AND supports multiple accessory directory files. A new accessory directory is manually selected with the 'F' subcommand of the F1 window. Note: the new file name is also reflected in the Alt-S window (but isn't saved for the next time). External protocol drivers may be implemented as accessories, easily. Refer to the Appendix G for a discussion of one such driver's implementation as an accessory (DSZ for file transfers). Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 10 V. Menu mode An easy way to get to know a new program is through a summary of functions it provides. In COM-AND, the F10 key provides a command summary. Like most communications programs, COM-AND ties its func- tions to special keys (Alt-D for dialing, Alt-F for file directory, and so on). This is done for purposes of speed... host services charge by the minute... every keystroke counts! However, beginning with version 2.5, almost every function of COM-AND is also available through a 'menu mode'. When COM-AND is run with the /V switch (or if menu mode is set permanently through Alt-O, Options), the top line of the screen displays a 'menu bar'. Each item on the top bar may be selected in turn, and a menu pulled down to list functions. The equivalent keystroke is displayed for every item in the pull-downs. In menu mode, items from the top bar may be selected with the mouse, or the cursor keys. Pull-down windows are opened in the same way. Keystrokes active on the top bar (when no pull-down is open) are: Mouse Keystroke Menu mode ON Menu mode OFF --------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------- Left motion Cursor left Top bar select Backspace sent Right motion Cursor right Top bar select Space transmitted Downward motion Cursor down Open pull-down It beeps Upward motion Cursor up Open pull-down It beeps Once an item from the top bar is 'opened' or 'pulled-down', the usage changes slightly. Within a pull-down, keystrokes are: Mouse Keystroke Menu mode ON ------------------- --------------- --------------------------- Left motion Cursor left Open pull-down to left Right motion Cursor right Open pull-down to right Downward motion Cursor down Select next successive item Upward motion Cursor up Select previous item Left button click PgDn Select next successive item Right button click PgUp Select previous item Left double click Carriage rtn Execute selected item Right double click ESCAPE Cancel window Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 11 V. Menu mode (continued) Within function 'windows' (such as Alt-D dialing), the above key- strokes and mouse actions have the same general meaning. [Only in menu mode pull-downs do left/right motions/cursor keys open new windows, however.] At this point, a note on mouse usage seems appropriate... COM-AND uses a Microsoft Mouse (or equivalent) if it finds one, when the /M run-time switch is not used. Even for the miceless, left, right, up, and down motions should be self-explanatory. However, mention of 'buttons' and 'double clicks' requires some discussion. The Microsoft Mouse has two buttons. COM-AND implements the left button as PgUp and the right button as PgDn, as shown in the table above. However, when a button is pressed, it is not 'executed' immediately. After a button press, COM-AND waits for a short moment to determine if the button is being pressed once, or twice in rapid succession. A left 'double click' is taken as a carriage return, and a 'right double click' is taken as ESCAPE. The interval after which COM-AND takes a button press as a single press may be changed through Alt-S, Setup. All of this is to say: in any COM-AND window where there are multiple items, the cursor keys, mouse up/down motions, and mouse buttons may be used to select an item. [Every window where this is the case 'highlights' the current selection.] A double click on the mouse left button executes the selection (just as a carriage return), and a double click on the mouse right button cancels the function (just as ESCAPE). The menu mode of COM-AND permits all 'manual' functions, such as dialing, hanging up, toggling disk capture, exiting the program, and so on, to be performed entirely with a mouse (or the cursor keys even). Of course, someone somewhere must have done the typing to update the dialing directory, to define the macros... But as stated at the outset, its an easy way to get to know the program. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 12 VI. Commands: available in both COM-AND and Accessory COM-AND provides the following command keys both on the CRT side, and during an accessory: F1 Switch between text (CRT) and accessory modes: As described above, the F1 key behaves differently, according to the way you loaded COM-AND. When COM-AND is directly loaded, F1 provides a menu of accessories and functions. When an accessory loads COM-AND by default, the F1 key is restricted to switching back and forth between CRT and accessory modes. F10 Help screen: All currently implemented commands are summar- ized on this screen. Any command may be executed directly while this screen is displayed. The help screen displayed is either by COM-AND or from the accessory, according to the current mode. Alt-F10 DOS Gateway: If sufficient memory is available, COM-AND executes a shell program. This is normally a second copy COMMAND.COM for full access to DOS while a communication session is in progress. Ctl-End Break: This sends a true 'break' signal. Ctl-Prt Printer: Toggle (i.e. turn on/off) printing to LP1. Alt-C Clear: Clear the text area of the screen. Alt-D Dialing directory: Enter, change, execute, and print the dialing directory entries. Please refer to Chapter IX, page 19. Alt-E Echo: Toggle local echo. [This function may also be con- trolled through the dialing directory (Echo ON).] In 'full duplex' (echoplex), the host must echo back what is typed for you to see it (you set Echo OFF). In 'half duplex', COM-AND echoes what is typed immediately (Echo ON). Alt-F File directory: A display similar to the DOS DIR command command is displayed in a window. Please refer to page 54. Alt-G Blank line suppression: Toggle. COM-AND may suppress blank lines (double spacing) if you wish. You may make this a program default through the Alt-O options menu. Alt-H Hangup: Hangup the phone. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 13 VI. Commands: available in both COM-AND and Accessory (continued) Alt-I Program information: Author information. Propaganda. Alt-M Macros: Define a macro for Alt-0 through Alt-9. Please refer to Chapter X, page 24. Alt-N Encrypt/decrypt a file: Encrypted files may be used as scripts. Files cannot be encrypted/decrypted in place!!! Please refer to Chapter XI, page 27. Note: Should the encrypted file be modified in any way, or the password be lost, there is little chance of recovery. Neither CABER Software nor the author will be liable for any damages or lost revenues incurred through the use of this function beyond the registration price paid for COM-AND. Alt-O Options: Set controlling flags for COM-AND. Note: although this menu may be used from either COM-AND or accessory, it really only effects COM-AND settings. Refer to page 43. Alt-P Comm Parameters: Set rate, parity, number of data and stop bits for use when COM-AND is initially loaded. These settings are overridden by run-time switches. Whatever the current setting, the dialing directory overrides. Please refer to page 34. Note: Although this menu may be used from either COM-AND or accessory, it really only effects COM-AND settings. Each accessory has an Alt-P function as well accessible only when the accessory is loaded with the '/P' switch. Alt-Q Editor: You may invoke COM-AND's text editor to view or to change a text file, at any time. For an overview, please refer to Chapter XIX (page 69, below). For a detailed description, refer to the CAEDIT.DOC file. Alt-R Redial the last number dialed: The program redials the last number dialed until the function is terminated (with ESC), or connection is made. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 14 VI. Commands: available in both COM-AND and Accessory (continued) Alt-S Setup: Define initial program values, such as Modem initial- ization, the Modem Hangup sequence, and file names. Please refer to page 30. Note: Although this menu may be used from either COM-AND or accessory, it really only effects COM-AND settings. Each accessory has an Alt-S function as well which may or may not be accessible when COM-AND is used to load the accessory. Alt-T Elapsed time: The time the program was loaded, and the time the last call (Alt-D or Alt-R) was placed, are displayed. The 'last call time' may be reset. A real-time alarm may be set (for one time use, or permanently). Refer to page 61. Alt-U Annotate call-log: COM-AND keeps (if you wish) a log of calls, hangups, disconnects and so on. You may enter free- form notes into the log through this window. Please refer to Chapter XIV, page 55. Alt-X Exit the program: If the modem you use reports 'carrier' and you exit without hanging-up, you are asked if a hangup is desired. NOTE: a script may override the Alt-X function. When this happens, after Alt-X is pressed (and after the hangup query if it is needed) a script may start! Alt-Z Parity mask: Toggle. The high bit mask is used only for text received and displayed. It has no effect on file transfers (XMODEM, YMODEM, ZMODEM, KERMIT, and CIS-B). Alt-0/9 Send a Macro: A string of characters defined through the Alt-M command described above is transmitted. Please refer to Chapter X, page 24. --------------------------------------------------------------- Note also functions defined below: "Commands: CRT modem only". --------------------------------------------------------------- Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 15 VII. Commands: CRT mode only COM-AND provides the following command keys only in CRT mode: F2 Execute a script: A window is opened to request the name of the script file. The extension ".CMD" is attempted if the given name does not have an extension, and the given name is not found. Similarly, the extension ".ENF" is tried. Please refer to Chapter XVIII, page 68. F3 Set current drive:path: You may change the default disk drive and path from within COM-AND using this feature. The current drive:path affect uploaded files and file name searches (Alt-F), when no qualification is provided. NOTE: The F3 setting is retained even after COM-AND is terminated. F4 Set default drive:path for downloads: All download file transfers (XMODEM, YMODEM, ZMODEM, KERMIT, CIS-B, ASCII, logging, and RLE) use this setting if the target file name supplied (one way or another) does not specify the drive and/or path. NOTE: The F4 setting is retained for the next time COM-AND is used. Each change to F4 is saved! F5 ASCII upload: Files may be transmitted to a system using a simple 'send' (as if they were entered by hand). Transfer may occur with or without a host prompt (some special char- acter issued for every line). Transfer may be timed (paced) in either case. Line feeds may or may not be suppressed. Tabs may or may not be expanded as blanks, as you wish. This function is also available through PgUp (page 51). F6 ASCII download: This differs from transcripting (F7, below) in that no extra characters are added to the file (line feeds after received carriage returns, or an end-of- file byte). Transcripting is intended to result in an ASCII edit file, or a printed log. ASCII download may be used to save sessions (or parts of sessions) exactly as received. This function is also available through PgDn (page 53). Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 16 VII. Commands: CRT mode only (continued) F7 Logging or transcripting: Log received text to a disk file or device. You specify the file to use. If not empty, new logging is appended to the end of existing data. You are asked if the backscreen (the last text received) is to be saved. Logging need not be started before an event you want to record. What is logged is not exactly what is displayed on the screen. If hi-bit masking is turned on, characters are saved with the high bit turned off. An ASCII end-of-file is added when the file is closed. Opening and closing the log marks the log with date and time. Transcript marking may be turned off with the Alt-O window. Log hold (below) does not mark the log. F8 Toggle display of typed characters (for use with half duplex connections, otherwise known as 'no echo'). The keyboard display takes over the last screen line. F9 Hold the log: no entry is made to the log from this point until hold is turned off (by pressing F9 again) or the log is closed. The status line informs you of log hold. PgUp Upload: A menu of protocols for file transfer is displayed. One must be selected, and the upload then proceeds as below (under "File Transfer"). Please refer to Chapter XIII, page 44. PgDn Download: A menu protocols for file transfer is displayed. One must be selected, and the download then proceeds as below (under "File Transfer"). Please refer to Chapter XIII, page 44. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 17 VII. Commands: CRT mode only (continued) Alt-A Toggle split screen 'chat mode' on and off: The screen is split in chat mode, one window for received text, and one for typed. The size of the chat window is set through Alt-S Setup. Some accessories also support Alt-A. Alt-B Redisplay (backscreen): You may review the backscreen buffer page by page. Some accessories also support Alt-B. Alt-J Set screen colors: You may set foreground and background color values for the CRT screen, the status line, and menu windows. Some accessories have their own Alt-J window. Alt-K Set KERMIT parameters: The values as supplied are suitable for most systems. We do not recommend that you change these settings unless you fully understand their meaning. Alt-L Toggle EGA(VGA)/CGA (43(50)/25 line) modes: Some accessories have their own Alt-L. Alt-V Emulation: You may select terminal emulation, and enable/ disable translation and/or remapping through Alt-V. Note: both translate and remap require prepared data. Alt-W Playback: Display text from a file in the CRT screen area. This may be used to set screen colors using ANSI controls (overriding the screen colors set through Alt-J). Alt = Menu mode: Alt-Equal toggles the menu mode interactively (see chapter V, 'Menu Mode'). Alt - Alt-Minus toggles remote function key use (see Appendix S, 'Doorways'). --------------------------------------------------------------- Note also functions defined above under "Commands: both modes". --------------------------------------------------------------- Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 18 VIII. Commands: Accessory only A discussion of accessory commands must properly be referred to the accessory document. However, a few comments are in order here. Each accessory must have an Alt-P function similar to COM-AND's Alt-P Comm Parms Menu, to allow you to set default parameters. The defaults have effect when the accessory is NOT run 'piggyback' ('/P' switch) through the DOS gateway of another communications program. Each accessory must have some kind of Alt-S setup window which defines accessory-specific flags and values. In all accessories currently released, the accessory setup function is available through the 'Controls' pull-down. When the accessory is loaded '/P', the Alt-S key is enabled to access the accessory setup as well. [When loaded through COM-AND, an accessory's Alt-S calls up COM-AND's Setup window.] Each accessory integrated into COM-AND defines Alt-X as program termination: not accessory termination, but process termination! Use Alt-X from an accessory to terminate the accessory AND the COM-AND program. Alt-X from COM-AND terminates COM-AND and any loaded accessory. The F1 key is used to switch between COM-AND and an accessory, and may be used to terminate the accessory without terminating COM-AND. As of version 2.6 of COM-AND, certain accessories permit COM-AND scripts to execute while the accessory is active. This includes scripts executed automatically through Alt-D dialing. Please refer to an accessory's documentation to determine the accessory supports scripts. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 19 IX. Dialing (Alt-D, Alt-R, and Alt-H) A. Dialing (Alt-D) . Dial from directory The dialing directory is invoked with Alt-D. You dial the number in an entry by entering the entry number followed by <cr>. The particular directory entry does not have to be visible. The entry number you type may be prefixed and/or suffixed with a long distance entry code (+,-,#,@). A prefix is transmitted before the number dialed, and the suffix is transmitted after the dialed number. Both prefix and suffix may be used, or one alone, or none. A fixed prefix string, which is transmitted with every call before any long distance prefix, may be specified in Alt-D. [For example, "9,," used for outdial through a PBX.] The modem dialing string specified through the Alt-S window is issued; the prefix for all calls (if specified) is issued; a long distance prefix (if used) is issued; the telephone number is issued; a long distance suffix (if used) is issued; and finally a dialing suffix string specified through the Alt-S screen is transmitted. Communications parameters are specified when the dialing direc- tory entry is created. Each service requires certain settings for comprehensible communications. However, one note: COM-AND changes settings to 8 data bits, no parity and 1 stop bit when file transfer commences, if appropriate (KERMIT is the only exception). When transfer completes, previous settings are reinstated. You only need to know what the specific service requires for conversational mode. . Manual dialing (M) From the Alt-D dialing directory, you may invoke manual dialing with the command "M". You are asked to enter a number to dial. Enter the telephone number to dial; it is prefixed with the modem dialing string (specified through the Alt-S window) and the fixed prefix for all calls, suffixed with the Alt-S dialing suffix, and issued. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 20 IX. Dialing (continued) . Manual dialing (continued) Manually dialed numbers use the communications parameters in effect at the time the number is dialed. The rule for comm parameters is: The Comm Parms default (Alt-P) is overridden by run-time parameters; the setting specified in a dialing directory entry overrides both. B. Dialing directory maintenance (Alt-D) . Revise entry (R) A directory entry is revised with the "R" command. You are prompted for an entry number (you may use the command "Rn" too, where "n" is the entry number). Answer each prompt with the appropriate value. You may cancel the change at any prompt with the ESC key. When all the prompts are completed you are asked whether the change is to be saved to disk. If you say no, the change is not available the next time you use COM-AND. NOTE: When you enter a telephone number to be dialed, there is space for 13 digits. For example: 1-312-555-1212. Normally you would not include the 1-xxx area code for your OWN area code. You may, however, enter ALL numbers as long distance numbers, and set the 'Strip area code' ('S' subcommand, below) to your own area code. COM-AND recognizes the 1-xxx and removes it if the 'xxx' matches the 'Strip area code' value. NOTE: When you revise a dialing directory entry, you must specify a speed for the connection. Many modems nowadays want the link between the computer and the modem to run at a single (high) speed. The modem itself handles the connection speed (usually a lower speed). You may select to override the Alt-D speed setting through Alt-O. Although you must select a speed in Alt-D, if Alt-O overrides the speed, the current (default) speed is displayed in Alt-D for ALL entries, and the speed setting in Alt-D is not used. NOTE: Also, you may select "Default" for the rate (speed) of an individual connection, and ignore the Alt-O override. The default rate is the rate holding AT THE TIME the entry is used to dial. The default is: 1) the last rate set by using Alt-D dialing, 2) the rate specified in the run command, or 3) the Alt-P default rate (in order of preference). Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 21 IX. Dialing (continued) B. Dialing directory maintenance (continued) . Delete entry (D) A directory entry is deleted with the "D" command on the Alt-D window. You are prompted for the entry number (you may use the command "Dn" too, where "n" is the entry number). The chosen entry is displayed. If you answer "y" to the query, the entry is deleted in memory and on disk. . Revise Long distance directory (L) The Long distance directory is a directory within a directory. Four entries may be created (labelled: "+", "-", "#", and "@") and used to prefix or suffix a dialing command (or to suffix). The Long distance entry is free form. Any string your modem accepts may be entered. The Long distance directory is pulled up from the Alt-D window with the command "L". An entry may be modified by selecting its label ("+","-","#","@"). . Print directory (P) The dialing directory (current in memory) may be printed from the Alt-D window with the subcommand "P". Printer output is directed to the standard output device (PRN). You are prompted to ready the printer. Press any key except ESC to begin printing. ESC at this prompt cancels the print job. The printed directory is two pages, each of 50 lines (plus heading). Top-of-forms (decimal 12) are issued at the start of each page. Column headings are similar to the Alt-D headings. . Load file (F) A new dialing directory may be loaded with the 'F' command at any time. Note: when you change the directory file, the change also is reflected in the Alt-S window (but isn't saved for the next time unless you save the values in Alt-S). Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 22 IX. Dialing (continued) B. Dialing directory maintenance (continued) . All call prefix (A) You may specify a string to precede all numbers with the 'A' subcommand. The string may contain any characters your modem will accept. [This is used, for example, for the "9,," outdial command common to many PBXes.] . Strip area code (S) You may specify your own area code to be stripped from the number dialed with the 'S' subcommand. When a dialing direc- tory number begins with the digit "1" followed by that area code, COM-AND removes it from the number being dialed. This feature makes it travelling and communicating more convenient. . Timeout delay (T) When Alt-D dials a number, and it fails to connect after a given period of time, COM-AND performs a hangup, and then attempts a redial. You may specify the the timeout with the 'T' subcommand. Note that this value is reflected in Alt-S (but is not saved unless you save Alt-S). C. Redial (Alt-R) The last dialing directory entry used to dial (or manual number as entered) may be recalled and redialed. The redial sequence cycles. It waits for the "Connect string" (as specified through the Alt-S window) for a fixed period, then resets the modem using the "Escape string" and tries again. Time spent redialing is updated every time a redial is attempted. You may force a new attempt with the space-bar. You may change the delay interval by pressing the END key: you are prompted for a new value (in seconds). Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 23 IX. Dialing (continued) D. Hangup (Alt-H) The connection (if any) may be interrupted and the "Hangup string" (specified through the Alt-S window) issued (or DTR dropped, according to your Alt-O preference), using the Alt-H command. One note about Alt-H hangup: According to your modem and your setup of COM-AND, when you hangup, the connection may not be properly broken. A second Alt-H may or may not finish the job. Modems configured to follow DTR always respond to dropping DTR. Through Alt-O, you may opt to re-initialize the modem after hangup. The re-initialization takes some time, but ensures the modem is left in a uniform state. E. A note on modem speed Some new modems connect to the PC at one speed and connect to the host at a second speed. If you use a modem of this type, you have several alternatives: . set the speed in the dialing directory to the speed used modem-to-PC. Usually this is a higher rate. Leave the Alt-O "Override Alt-D speed" OFF. . set the speed in Alt-P to the speed used modem-to-PC. Set the Alt-O "Override Alt-D speed" ON. Please note that, at this time, COM-AND does not automatically detect and change speeds during a connection. Several included scripts demonstrate this 'autobauding' (see BBS, HOST, CONNECT and PC-2-PC), but COM-AND does not offer it in manual usage. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 24 X. Macros (Alt-M and Alt-0/9) A. Revise entry (0-9) COM-AND is distributed with an empty Macro directory. Entries are displayed and modified through the Alt-M window. A macro entry is any string of text which may be transmitted on-line with one keystroke. Carriage returns may be embedded in the string (as exclamation points "!" ... Exclamation points themselves must be entered doubly: "!!"). Control characters may be embedded in the string (as caret/letter "^x" ... ^a = 1, ^b = 2, and so on... Carets themselves, too, must be doubled: "^^"). The grave (`) forces the next character (may be used in place of doubling). The macro definition window is invoked with Alt-M. Select the entry number to revise by entering its number (0...9). You are prompted for the new entry. One interesting note: COM-AND keystrokes may be programmed into macros themselves. For example, the macro: "^@<SOURCE!" actually invokes the F2 (execute script) window, and passes the name "SOURCE" with a terminating carriage return to the F2 window. The ^@ indicates the following character is interpreted as an 'extended keystroke', i.e. not-ASCII. Extended characters are: Macro seq Key Macro seq Key Macro seq Key --------- --- --------- ----- --------- ----- ^@; F1 ^@^^ Alt-A ^@1 Alt-N ^@< F2 ^@1 Alt-B ^@^X Alt-O ^@= F3 ^@. Alt-C ^@^Y Alt-P ^@> F4 ^@ (space) Alt-D ^@^P Alt-Q ^@? F5 ^@^R Alt-E ^@^S Alt-R ^@@ F6 ^@! Alt-F ^@^_ Alt-S ^@A F7 ^@" Alt-G ^@^T Alt-T ^@B F8 ^@# Alt-H ^@^V Alt-U ^@C F9 ^@^W Alt-I ^@/ Alt-V ^@D F10 ^@$ Alt-J ^@^Q Alt-W ^@I PgUp ^@% Alt-K ^@- Alt-X ^@Q PgDn ^@& Alt-L ^@^U Alt-Y ^@u Ctl-End ^@2 Alt-M ^@, Alt-Z Note, too, Alt-A (requiring "^^") is unprogrammable. It may be entered as decimal 30 (use Alt and numeric pad keys, below). Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 25 X. Macros (continued) A. Revise entry (continued) In the above example, the F2 key was represented by "^@<". When the F2 key is pressed a window is opened and a search for all files *.CMD and *.ENF takes place. In simpler terms, pressing the F2 key takes TIME. COM-AND defines the ASCII value 255 as a short cut to execute a script or script statement. The macro: " SOURCE!" where the first character (here displayed as blank) is ASCII 255, performs the same sequence... without opening the F2 window. DOS provides an obscure method for entering characters by their ASCII value. To enter the ASCII value 255: hold down the Alt-key, type '2' on the numeric pad, then type '5' on the numeric pad, then type '5' again on the numeric pad, and finally, release the Alt-key. The Alt-key must be held for the duration of the 2-5-5. The numeric pad must be used. If the first character following the 255 is ".", subsequent text is executed as a single script command. Otherwise, the text is interpreted as a script file name to execute. In this way, single script statements or entire script files may be tied to a macro key (Alt-0 through Alt-9). B. Load a new file (Alt-M subcommand F) When COM-AND is loaded, the Macro Definition file as named through the Alt-S setup menu is loaded. You may load a different file of macros later, using the (F)ile subcommand of Alt-M. Note: when you change the macro definition file, the change is reflected in the Alt-S window (but isn't saved for the next time unless you save the values in Alt-S). Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 26 X. Macros (continued) C. Clear entries (Alt-M subcommand C) You may clear all macro definitions in COM-AND's memory (but not in the current file) with the (C)lear command. To clear the file, make blank entries (blank, <cr>) for 0-9. D. Execute entry (Alt-0 through Alt-9) Macros are issued with the commands Alt-0 through Alt-9, outside of Alt-M. The entry indicated by the number is transmitted. What happens after is strictly up to what you've entered, the service you're using, and the people around you. As discussed above, the text of a macro may or may not be trans- mitted. If the macro is plain text, it is transmitted. If the macro contains commands for COM-AND to execute, it is executed. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 27 XI. Encrypt/Decrypt (Alt-N) Beginning with version 2.2, COM-AND performs file encryption and decryption. COM-AND encrypted script files are automatically recognized and decrypted in memory. Dialing directory, Macro definition and Accessory definition files are not automatically decrypted, but might be decrypted and reloaded through a script. COM-AND implements two encryption methods: o a simple encryption method; this method is appropriate for script files which you plan to keep on your own machine, and only wish to protect from casual perusal (e.g. passwords). o a one-way encryption method; this method is only for scripts. No password is required for this encryption. When a script file encrypted this way is encountered, no password prompt is issued to the screen. COM-AND does not decrypt one-way encrypted files from Alt-N. 'Simple' encryption uses a simple XOR algorithm against the data. It is not considered very secure, but appropriate to protect against casual perusal. One-way encryption uses a similar algorithm, but generates a password that cannot be entered by hand (through Alt-N). Encrypted files are slightly larger than the original file. Infor- mation as to true file size, file date/time and CRC checking is added to the file. When the file is decrypted, the method used to encrypt is recognized automatically, and the file is restored to its original size, date and time. The decrypted file is deleted immediately if a CRC check fails. When you encrypt or decrypt a file (or when the script processor recognizes an encrypted file with the exception of one-way encryp- tion) you are asked for a password. COM-AND accepts up to 32 char- acters for the password, and uses them to derive a 'key' for the file. The password you supply is not the decrypting key. For the maximum protection, it is recommended you use the full 32 characters for a password. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 28 XI. Encrypt/Decrypt (continued) --------------------------------------------------------------------- However, you must be able (somehow) to remember the password. Should you lose the password, or if the encrypted file is modified in any manner, there is very little chance of recovering the data. Neither CABER Software nor the author will be liable for any damages or lost revenues incurred through the use of this function beyond the registration price paid for COM-AND. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Encryption and decryption must be performed from one (input) file to another different (output) file. Do not attempt to encrypt or decrypt a file over itself. If there is insufficient space on the target disk for the file, you are warned, and allowed to select a new target disk or diskette or to abort. Alt-N invokes a menu allowing selection of Encryption or Decryption. You are prompted for each required parameter. When the process begins, a display similar to file transfers provides an estimate for the time required and a measure of its performance. The COM-AND script processor searches for the extension ".ENF" as well as ".CMD". The script processor searches first for the given file name. If no match is found it then searches for the same file name with the extension ".CMD". If no match is found the second time, it searches for the same file name with the extension ".ENF". [If the name is unqualified with drive:subdirectory and if there is a COM-AND= environment variable, another three searches are done on the drive:subdirectory indicated by the COM-AND= variable.] Thus, if you want to encrypt a script file with no extension or with the extension ".CMD", you must use one of two strategies: o encrypt the file using a DIFFERENT name... and use the different name when invoking the script (F2)... or o encrypt the file to the same name with the extension ".ENF" and then delete the original (after backup of course). Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 29 XI. Encrypt/Decrypt (continued) We suggest you use either the 'simple' method or 'one-way' method to encode script files. Script files encoded with these methods are decrypted and executed transparently... the differences is that 'one-way' encrypted scripts do not pop-up a prompt for a password. --------------------------------------------------------------------- Previous versions of COM-AND included Federal Data Encryption Standard (DES) compliant encryption. In 1992, CABER Software was informed that it is not legal to ship software out of the U.S. containing DES encryption. [Aside: Other countries are permitted to sell DES software HERE... and do. U.S. companies, however, may not sell this technology abroad!] In version 2.9, DES encryption has been removed from COM-AND. The Federal Data Encryption algorithm encodes data in 64-bit 'chunks'; each bit of each byte goes through many transformations, and may end up anywhere in the 64-bit area. The simpler methods also encode in chunks, but do not 'smear bits'. The full Federal Data Encryption Standard (DES) algorithm in software is not fast but may be considered fairly secure. The DES is appropriate for files you wish to exchange publicly, but choose to secure. However, it is SLOW. It is not available in this version of COM-AND. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 30 XII. Program Configuration (Alt-S, Alt-P, Alt-O, and Alt-J) A. Setup Screen (Alt-S) 1. Modem control . Modem initialization string The modem initialization string is issued when COM-AND is first loaded. It is not issued when the port is changed during execution. If blank, it is ignored. Carriage returns and control characters are specified as with macros. Refer to Appendix M (Modem Configuration) for examples. . Modem dialing prefix The Modem dialing prefix commands the modem to begin a dialing sequence. It is followed by a number from the dialing directory (and long distance string, if specified). . Modem dialing suffix The Modem dialing string terminates each dialing command. For Hayes type modems it should be a "!" (translated by COM-AND to a <cr>). It may be any string appropriate to your modem. Carriage returns and control characters are specified as with macros. . Hangup string The hangup string is issued (after a modem escape) when you press Alt-H, if "drop DTR" is not set in Alt-O. Carriage returns and control characters are specified as with macros. Delays of 1/2 second each may be specified with a tilde (~) (see "modem delay char" below). . Escape string The modem escape is issued before the hangup string (Alt-H), and before each dialing attempt. Delays of 1/2 second each are specified with a tilde (~). Carriage returns and control characters are specified as with macros. . Connect string The connect string is used by the Alt-D dial and Alt-R redial commands to determine when connection has been made. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 31 XII. Program Configuration (continued) A. Setup Screen (continued) 2. Files All files specified here are searched under the current drive:subdirectory, and under the drive:subdirectory indicated through the COM-AND= environment variable, unless the name given is explicitly qualified. . Call-log file The call-log file name determines the file to open for call-logging (if call-logging is enabled, see below, Alt-O Options, and Chapter XIV). . Dialing directory file The dialing directory file is used to initialize the program's dialing directory. The current dialing directory may be changed at any time from within COM-AND. . Macro Directory file The macro directory file is used to initialize the program's macro definitions. You may change the current macro definition at any time from within COM-AND. . Accessory directory file The COM-AND accessory function F1 requires a file to contain definitions for accessories. You may have several files of definitions and change at any time from within COM-AND. . RLE temporary file COM-AND recognizes RLE graphics images when they are encoun- tered in the received stream, and buffer the image to disk. This file name specifies the temporary file name. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 32 XII. Program Configuration (continued) A. Setup Screen (continued) 3. Timings and Values . Backscreen buffer size Up to 64K for the backscreen buffer may be selected (or turn it off altogether by setting it to 0K). This buffer is used by the Alt-B redisplay, and by the F7 transcript command. . Break delay COM-AND issues a true break through the Ctl-End key. The duration of the break is controlled here. "Break delay" specifies the number of milliseconds the comm line is held. . Alarm duration The alarm duration value specifies the number of seconds an alarm tune sounds when a function is terminated. Set this to zero to inhibit the special termination alarm. . Modem char delay The modem char delay gives the number of milliseconds COM- AND delays after each character of a modem control sequence (e.g. dialing, hangup, initialization). Certain modems require their control sequences be enunciated slowly. . Reconnect delay The interval between Alt-R redial (and scripted dialing) attempts is specified here. 45 seconds is recommended for long distance dialing. 30 seconds is usual for local calls. . Chat Window The size of the lower window in chat mode (where what you type appears) may be changed. The size of the chat window is limited to between 2 and 10 lines. . Bell tone COM-AND implements its own bell sound. You may set the tone to any pleasant frequency (in Hz). Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 33 XII. Program Configuration (continued) A. Setup Screen (continued) 3. Timings and Values (continued) . Mouse vertical sensitivity The vertical sensitivity of the mouse may be set here. The higher the value used, the less sensitive the mouse. The most sensitive value is 0. . Mouse horizontal sensitivity The horizontal sensitivity of the mouse may be set here. The higher the value used, the less sensitive the mouse. The most sensitive value is 0. . Mouse double click interval The double click interval of the mouse may be set here. When a mouse button is pressed twice within this interval a different action is taken than when it is only pressed once. . Modem delay character The modem delay character defaults to a tilde (ASCII 126). It represents a 1/2 second delay in strings sent to the modem (above) and strings sent with the script command TRANSMIT. It may be redefined here. . Xfer Screen Update Interval At 9600 bps and above, the time taken to paint the status screen becomes a significant percentage of the overall time required for a file transfer. Setting the screen update interval to '5' has a visible impact on performance, even at 2400 bps. 4. Save You may change values for one execution of COM-AND, or you may change them for all subsequent executions of COM-AND. If you save values, the values you've saved are set the next time you use COM-AND. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 34 XII. Program Configuration (continued) B. Communications Parameters (Alt-P) Do not change the current setting after you've connected to a ser- vice. XMODEM, YMODEM, ZMODEM, and CIS-B transfers can change (and do change) to no parity (if necessary), but you shouldn't. 1. Port speed (bps) Rate is specified through the first selections of the Alt-P window. Other parameters (parity, data bits, and stop bits) may be set individually or in combination (below). 2. E,7,1 and N,8,1 For convenience, the combinations Even parity/7 data bits/1 stop bit, and No parity/8 data bits/1 stop bit are provided after the port speed selections. 3. Parity, Data bits and Stop bits Individual settings for parity, number of data bits and number of stop bits comprise the next items of this menu. You also set these values when you create a dialing directory entry. 4. COM ports The last items on this menu are the candidates for COM ports. Select the appropriate port for your modem. This item is usually selected once, and then left alone. NOTE: If your computer is equipped with fewer than four serial ports, an attempt to configure a missing port results in the port being shown set at 115k bps. When a board is added with the additional port (e.g. an internal modem set to work as COM3 or COM4), COM-AND will recognize it. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Note: All parameters may be set through the command parameters. These parameters override the Alt-P default settings. Example: "d>" COM-AND COM3 1200 DATA8 STOP1 NONE Refer to Appendix A for the list of run-command parameters. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 35 XII. Program Configuration (continued) B. Communications Parameters (continued) 5. Save Current settings for the next execution of COM-AND are saved through the "Save" selection. Settings are saved to disk. 6. Set Base/IRQ COM-AND defaults the four supported comm ports to the values: COM1: base address: 0x3f8, interrupt request # 4 COM2: base address: 0x2f8, interrupt request # 3 COM3: base address: 0x3e8, interrupt request # 4 COM4: base address: 0x2e8, interrupt request # 3 These may be changed through a submenu of the Alt-P menu. Select 'Set Base/IRQ', and a submenu is opened. Current values are displayed. Select a port and you are prompted for new values. Each port's base address is limited to the values 0-1023 (or 0 through 0x3ff). Each port's interrupt request number is limited to the values 0-7. The default values are appropriate for most applications. Most people never need to change these settings. However, should you need to do so, the capability is available. DO NOT CHANGE these assignments unless you are sure you have need to do so, and have the correct values at hand. If you do not save the changes, COM-AND reverts to the defaults the next time it is loaded (after Ctrl-Alt-Delete, for example!). If COM-AND is directed to use a non existent port base address, the result may range from: nothing happening what- soever, to complete machine lockup (if there IS in fact a device at that address able to respond to interrupt requests). It is recommended you try new settings before saving them. The meaning of the 'names' COM1, COM2, COM3, and COM4, as far as COM-AND is concerned, is determined simply by these base address and IRQ assignments. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 36 XII. Program Configuration (continued) C. Options (Alt-O) 1. Settings otherwise available . Echo (also Alt-E) Some services turn around what you type for you to see, ("full duplex" or echoplex), and some don't ("half duplex"). You may force COM-AND to display what you enter in the CRT window by toggling echo. Setting echo on here turns echo on immediately. Saving the setting causes echo to be turned on the next time you run COM-AND. You may toggle echo dynamically with Alt-E. . Parity mask (also Alt-Z) You may mask parity from received text by setting the parity mask on permanently here. I've found this useful; mandatory when I've needed it. Parity masking is toggled dynamically with Alt-Z. . Keyboard display (also F8) Some talk systems are more friendly when what you type is not mixed in with what you receive. Turning system echo off (if the system echoes key-entry) is accomplished in a number of ways (Note: this is different from Alt-E above), each unique to the particular system. However, all of a sudden there is a new problem: you don't see what you're typing! Keyboard display in COM-AND is one attempt to solve this problem. What you type is displayed on the status line when keyboard display is enabled. You may enable it on permanently through this option. Keyboard display may be toggled dynamically with F8. . Chat mode (also Alt-A) Chat mode is another mechanism to allow you to see what you've typed when echo has been turned off. Instead of just one line of keyboard display, chat mode allows you to see the last few (up to 10) lines you have typed. Chat mode is toggled dynamically with Alt-A. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 37 XII. Program Configuration (continued) C. Options (Alt-O) (continued) 1. Settings otherwise available (continued) . Blank line suppression (also Alt-G) You may enable blank line suppression on when COM-AND is loaded, through this selection. Blank line suppression may be dynamically toggled with Alt-G. . In/Out Translate (also Alt-V) You may turn on in/out character translation on when COM-AND is loaded, through this option. Note: the file COM-AND.XLT must be prepared prior to the use of this function. This file may be prepared using the script XLATE.CMD. . Remapping (also Alt-V) You may turn on keyboard remapping on when COM-AND is loaded, through this option. Note: the file COM-AND.RMP must be prepared prior to the use of this function. Please refer to to the script REMAP.CMD and its documentation REMAP.DOC. 2. Settings available only through Alt-O . Nondestructive Backspace You may toggle a destructive/nondestructive backspace func- tion through this option. Nondestructive backspaces are not required by many systems, but now and then it comes up. . Backspace sent as delete You may toggle the character transmitted as a backspace func- tion through this option. Either backspace (decimal 8), or delete (decimal 127, a.k.a. rubout) may be transmitted. . CR -> CRLF received You may toggle a CR/CRLF on received CR function through this option. Most systems generate a CR and a LF to terminate a line, but a few only generate a CR. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 38 XII. Program Configuration (continued) C. Options (Alt-O) (continued) 2. Settings available only through Alt-O (continued) . Alarm noise An alarm tune (of sorts) sounds when the Alt-R redial makes connection, and when file transfer is complete. The noise is also played when certain error conditions occur. When disabled, the alarm window is held open without noise. The duration of the noise (or noiseless pause) is controlled through Alt-S Setup. . Exit query Some people dislike the query "do you really and truly mean it?" when they type Alt-X. Others feel it mandatory. COM- AND is distributed with exit query disabled. You may enable it, if you're so inclined, through this Alt-O selection. . Mark transcript COM-AND marks every disk transcript taken (beginning and end) with the date and time. You tell COM-AND not to mark further transcripts through this Alt-O selection. The transcript function also has the capability to add the backscreen (the full backscreen buffer's worth) to the transcript. Turning transcript marking off means there will be no delimiter between the backscreen and transcript. . Initial advertisement In its distributed form, COM-AND's Information screen (Alt-I) is set to display when the program starts. You may disable the display through this Alt-O setting. . Use BIOS for screen saves You may set BIOS screen accesses permanently through this option. COM-AND defaults to direct screen buffer reads and writes. Some machines (and environments) require you to use BIOS. See also Appendix J on multitasking, and "Use DOS for screen writes", below. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 39 XII. Program Configuration (continued) C. Options (Alt-O) (continued) 2. Settings available only through Alt-O (continued) . Use DOS for screen writes You may set DOS screen writes permanently through this option. When received text is written through DOS, ANSI.SYS or other console driver is invoked (if you turn all emulation off). See also Appendix J on multi-tasking, and "Use BIOS for screen saves", above. . Display control characters COM-AND displays all displayable control characters if you choose (as many BBS's use them). You may turn this feature off and on through Alt-O according to the system you use. . Software flow control (XON/XOFF) COM-AND supports software flow control using the XON/XOFF discipline. You may enable and disable software flow con- trol according to the system(s) you use. NOTE: If you enable software flow control, and use a high speed modem, you should turn XON/XOFF flow control OFF in the modem. Refer to your modem's manual. . Unidirectional hardware flow control (OLD style!) COM-AND supports a hardware flow control, raising RTS and waiting for CTS, before transmitting a char. This function may be permanently established here, according to your needs. [This method is rarely used now.] . Bidirectional hardware flow control (modern usage) COM-AND supports a second, more modern, hardware flow control, raising RTS when able to receive, and waiting for CTS before transmitting. This function may be permanently established here, according to your needs. NOTE: Most of the modern, high speed modems require this bidirectional flow control. Refer to your modem's manual. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 40 XII. Program Configuration (continued) C. Options (Alt-O) (continued) 2. Settings available only through Alt-O (continued) . Drop DTR to hangup COM-AND disconnects either (1) by dropping DTR momentarily or (2) using the hangup escape sequence specified in the Alt-S setup. Only use the first method if your modem is configured to follow DTR (see Appendix M, Modem Configuration). . Re-initialize modem after HANGUP COM-AND retransmits the modem initialization string (Alt-S above) after HANGUP, when this is ON. If you alter modem settings (say, through a script) for individual connects, reinitializing after HANGUP ensures the modem is always in a proper default state. . Call-logging COM-AND logs successful connections, hangup, carrier drop- outs, file transfers and file encrypt/decryptions to a call- log when call-logging is enabled. The name of the current call-log is declared through Alt-S. Please refer to Chapter XIV, page 55. . Screen clock COM-AND displays the current time (as "hh:mm:ss" if no connection is known, and as "hh:mm (hh:mm)" showing current time and time since connection) on the status line when the Alt-O screen clock is ON. The reminder "Press F10 for help" is displayed when the screen clock is OFF. . Suppress bells COM-AND does not sound received bell characters when this option is enabled. . Menu mode COM-AND supports a menu mode offering most all customary functions for execution with a mouse. This mode may be set permanently here (interactively toggled with Alt-equal). Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 41 XII. Program Configuration (continued) C. Options (Alt-O) (continued) 2. Settings available only through Alt-O (continued) . Respect CD COM-AND monitors carrier detect unless you turn the function off here (or with the /T run-time switch). Carrier detect (CD) is monitored during file transfers and after successful connection through the dialing directory. . Suspend comm during disk (PCJr) This mode suspends the comm line (using flow control) during disk I/O. This is needed on PCJrs and for (some) high speed communications (machine dependant). . Capture/Display RLE files COM-AND recognizes RLE files as they are received, and cap- tures them to disk while displaying them (if you have EGA or CGA). It may be permanently enabled it here. See also Appendix J on multi-tasking. . Allow MUSIC COM-AND plays music escape sequences when received when this function is enabled. Music escape sequences take the form: "ESC,[,M,<BASICA encoded string>,^N". . Allow REMOTE COM-AND performs script commands received over from a REMOTE system when this is enabled. REMOTE sequences take the form: "ESC,^,<script command>,<cr>". . Slow transfer sends COM-AND performs file transfers at an unusually high speed, using a technique called 'interrupt driven writes'. Some network modems fail when pressed so hard. This option may be used to slow COM-AND file transfers down a bit. Please refer to Appendices J (page 90 and R (page 103). Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 42 XII. Program Configuration (continued) C. Options (Alt-O) (continued) 2. Settings available only through Alt-O (continued) . ZMODEM auto download COM-AND will recognize and automatically start a ZMODEM receive under the host's control when this option is enabled. It may be disabled to avoid false triggers (for example, by "friends" in CB/chat). . ZMODEM recovery The ZMODEM protocol defines a 'recovery' function for down- loads. When the file being received already exists, and this option is enabled, the transfer picks up at the end of the file (presumably where a failed transfer ended). [The prev- ious transfer may have used any protocol (!).] When disabled, ZMODEM downloads go to a unique file name each time. . BPLUS recovery The BPlus protocol defines a 'recovery' function for down- loads. You control the recovery as described above for ZMODEM recovery. 3. Save Values set through this screen are not automatically saved to disk. Values set through this screen are immediately used by COM-AND. To configure COM-AND to have the same settings the next time it is loaded, you must save them with the "Save" selection of the Alt-O window. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 43 XII. Program Configuration (continued) D. Colors (Alt-J) You may set foreground and background colors for (1) the CRT text area, (2) the status line, and (3) main menus (queries are set to black on white for contrast). The color names are those used in the IBM Technical Reference; if you have different names for some of the color values, I apologize. My wife and I have argued for years over 'beige'. If the "Use DOS for screen writes" option is set, then the text colors selected above are ignored. If this option is set, and the internal ANSI emulator is not turned off, then no color at all (beyond your DOS configuration) is available for text. Like other option menus, you may experiment with settings. Unless you save your settings, they are lost when the COM-AND terminates. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 44 XIII. File Transfer (PgUp, PgDn, Alt-F and F4) COM-AND offers several file transfer protocols, to and from your PC. Transfers to your PC are called downloads (down from the host). File transfers from your PC are called uploads (up to the host). The file transfer methods currently implemented are: o XMODEM (Windowed, CRC and checksum) o YMODEM (BBS YMODEM, a.k.a. XMODEM1K) o Batch YMODEM (True YMODEM (tm), and YMODEM-G) o ZMODEM (batch) o KERMIT (Windowed or original) o CIS-B (classic, QuickB, and B+, for CompuServe) o ASCII (without error checking) To begin a transfer, you must FIRST tell the host (system) to start the transfer. Each system is different in this respect. Once the host is ready to start the transfer, THEN begin the transfer in COM-AND. The transfer in COM-AND begins with either the PgUp key (for upload) or PgDn key (for download). The items on the menu presented are explicit; if you select CRC XMODEM, Windowed XMODEM is not used, even if the host supports it. On the other hand, the definition of CRC XMODEM allows a 'drop' into checksum XMODEM, if the host doesn't support CRC. Each system you use has an optimal transfer method. Select the method from the menu. According to the transfer method selected, you may then be queried for a file name (or wildcard template in the case of KERMIT, ZMODEM and Batch YMODEM uploads). At this point, COM-AND takes over the transfer. With the exception of ASCII transfers, the sequence is usually: o Synchronize with the host o Negotiate parameters for the transfer o Transfer a file or files o Report error or completion of transfer Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 45 XIII. File Transfer (continued) During a file transfer, COM-AND displays an estimate of the time required for the transfer (for downloads the estimate is for 30K chunks, unless the protocol provides the true file size). The transfer rate (in terms of bytes per second actually delivered) and efficiency (in terms of percent of maximum linespeed) is computed and displayed every few seconds. The download statistics window displays: . the file name of the file being transferred, . the method . the time so far, . the file size so far, . the number of blocks received, . the number of errors encountered, . a description of the last error encountered. . an estimate for the transfer time (to the nearest 30K interval, unless the protocol supplies the true file size) . and the efficiency of the transfer (percent linespeed) The upload statistics window displays: . the file name of the file being transferred, . its size, . the method . the number of blocks being transferred, . the time so far, . the number of blocks sent, . if windowing the current 'window' size . the number of errors encountered, . a description of the last error encountered. . an estimate for the transfer time . and the efficiency of the transfer (percent linespeed) During file transfers, cursor keys may be used to position the statistics window on the screen. If the window does not move immediately, wait a moment; remember, characters are coming in rather quickly. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Protocols are not available through accessory programs. ---------------------------------------------------------------- Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 46 XIII. File Transfer (continued) A. XMODEM Up/Download The XMODEM protocol was developed by Ward Christensen in 1977, and has become the best known and most generally available file transfer protocol. It was extended to use windowing in 1986 by Peter Boswell. COM-AND supports transfers to/from systems accepting checksum, CRC, or Windowed XMODEM. When you request XMODEM upload, you are asked for a file. Once the file's existence has been assured, COM-AND begins protocol negotiation with the host system. One of the possible protocols is negotiated, according to your choice and the host's implemen- tation. Up to 60 seconds are allowed for the negotiation. If 60 seconds is exceeded, the transfer fails. When you request XMODEM download, you are asked for a file name. Once the file has been created (you are queried for a purge if it already exists), COM-AND begins protocol negotiation with the host system. One of several protocols is negotiated, according to your choice and to the host's implementation. COM-AND drops through WXMODEM after 24 seconds. COM-AND drops through CRC XMODEM after 24 seconds. If the host does not acknowledge CRC XMODEM, then finally, CHECKSUM is attempted. Up to 100 seconds are allowed for the negotiation. If 100 seconds is exceeded, the transfer fails. COM-AND is intended primarily for users of networks and services available through the networks. For this reason, COM-AND implements what is referred to as "relaxed XMODEM". The networks introduce timing delays into file transfers not contemplated by the original XMODEM standard. However, the relaxed XMODEM works quite well with BBS's expecting strict XMODEM. COM-AND was developed for use in a network environment. There- fore, an XMODEM variant is available: Windowed XMODEM (WXMODEM). This protocol is designed to accommodate network delays and maximize performance. It also accomodates XON/XOFF flow control. WXMODEM gives approximately 35% faster transfer rates in network environments. For details about WXMODEM refer to Appendix D. COM-AND changes the communications parameters to 8 data bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit when XMODEM begins. It restores settings to their original state after XMODEM completes. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 47 XIII. File Transfer (continued) B. YMODEM Up/Download (BBS YMODEM and Batch YMODEM/YMODEM-G) The YMODEM protocol was developed by Chuck Forsberg, in the early 1980's, to address efficiency and stability issues. COM-AND supports several several YMODEM variants: . simple YMODEM (Bulletin Board YMODEM, also known as XMODEM1k) . Batch YMODEM (properly named "True YMODEM (tm)") . Batch YMODEM-G (streaming version for error free connections) When one of the YMODEM uploads is selected, you are asked for a file name (or in the case of Batch YMODEM and YMODEM-G, a wild- card template). Once the file's existence has been assured, protocol negotiation with the host system begins. Up to 60 seconds are allowed for the negotiation. If 60 seconds are exceeded, the transfer fails. You may restart it, of course. When simple YMODEM/XMODEM1k download is selected, you are asked for a file name. Once the file has been created (you are queried for a purge if it already exists), COM-AND begins protocol nego- tiation with the host system. Up to 60 seconds are allowed for the negotiation. If 60 seconds is exceeded, the transfer fails. When a Batch YMODEM or YMODEM-G download is selected, you ARE NOT asked for a file name. The host supplies the name(s). For this reason, if the supplied name duplicates a name on the default download subdirectory, the new file name has its last character(s) (usually the extension) changed to '$'. YMODEM (in all its variants) is more efficient in any environ- ment than simple XMODEMs (CRC and checksum) simply because it transfers longer blocks of data at a time. YMODEM is subject, however, to the same problems (lack of flow control, for one) known well to XMODEM users in networked environments. Variations on YMODEM abound. The various namings of this protocol proliferate; even YMODEM's developer has changed his naming of the protocol; thus COM-AND uses the most common names (and the name given it by the developer in its original specification). COM-AND changes the communications parameters to 8 data bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit when any YMODEM begins. It restores settings to their original state after YMODEM completes. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 48 XIII. File Transfer (continued) C. ZMODEM Up/Download The ZMODEM protocol was developed by Chuck Forsberg in 1986, and has become the de facto standard for BBSes. ZMODEM is available for transfers on many on-line hosts, as well. When you begin ZMODEM upload, a wildcard template is requested (for example, FILE*.ASM). Once the (first) file's existence has been assured, COM-AND begins protocol negotiation with the host system. Up to 60 seconds are allowed for the negotiation. After 60 seconds, the transfer fails. COM-AND detects and automatically begins ZMODEM receive when the 'auto' option of Alt-O is enabled. If this option is disabled, the ZMODEM receive must be manually started. When a ZMODEM download begins, you ARE NOT asked for a file name. The host supplies the name(s). ZMODEM defines a 'recovery' mode (which is enabled/disabled through Alt-O). When recovery is dis- abled, and the download file name duplicates an existing file, the download name has its last character(s) changed to '$'. When recovery is enabled, and the name supplied duplicates an existing file, the transfer begins at the old end-of-file. Presumably, the file is there as the result of a failed transfer. On download, once the file has been opened, COM-AND begins nego- tiation with the host system. Up to 60 seconds are allowed for the negotiation. After 60 seconds, the transfer fails. ZMODEM is more efficient in a networked environment than XMODEM (CRC and checksum) for several reasons. First, ZMODEM transfers longer blocks of data at a time (up to 1024 byte blocks). Second, ZMODEM is designed to accomodate XON/XOFF flow control as used by many hosts and networks. Third, ZMODEM sends continuously, until the receiver detects an error (streaming). COM-AND does not implement some of the 'management' and 'trans- port' options intended for batch and automatic operation. COM-AND does not implement ZMODEM fall-back to YMODEM or XMODEM. COM-AND changes the communications parameters to 8 data bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit when ZMODEM begins, and enables soft flow control. It restores settings to their original state after ZMODEM completes. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 49 XIII. File Transfer (continued) D. KERMIT Up/Download The KERMIT protocol was developed at Columbia University and has been very popular at some computer sites. COM-AND supports both KERMIT (original) and Super KERMIT (windowed). When you request KERMIT upload, you are asked for a file template (e.g. *.EXE). Once the first file's existence has been assured, COM-AND begins protocol negotiation with the host system. Up to 60 seconds are allowed for the negotiation. After 60 seconds, the transfer fails. You may restart it, of course. When you request KERMIT download, you ARE NOT be asked for a file name. The host supplies the name. For this reason, if the supplied name duplicates one on your default download subdir- ectory, the file name has its last character(s) changed to '$'. Once the file has been created, COM-AND begins protocol negotia- tion with the host system. Up to 60 seconds are allowed for the negotiation. After 60 seconds, the transfer fails. You may restart it, of course. KERMIT has grown in many directions over the years. Originally, it was a 7-bit protocol. Extensions were added to accomodate 8-bit data, and to negotiate the 'width' (7 or 8 bits) of the transfer. Extensions have been added to support a simple data compression method (run length encoding). Extensions have been added to accomodate windowing (called Super KERMIT). COM-AND supports all KERMIT facilities through the windowing extensions. COM-AND supports a window size of up to 8. COM-AND does not support the (later) large block size extension. COM-AND attempts to negotiate an 8 bit data path if you have set your comm parameters 8N1. An 8 bit data path provides the most efficient file transfer. COM-AND does not (now) change parity and data bits settings for the transfer. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 50 XIII. File Transfer (continued) E. CIS-B and B+ Up/download The CIS-B protocol was developed at CompuServe and is their protocol 'of choice'. Files may be transferred to and from CompuServe (CIS) using CISB, and B+ protocols. When you initiate a transfer on CIS (sending OR receiving), you tell CIS the name of the file to transfer AND tell CIS the name for the file on your PC. CIS takes over, and instructs COM-AND to open the file you specified. Once the file's existence has been assured, COM-AND begins protocol negotiation with CIS. Up to 60 seconds are allowed for the negotiation. If 60 seconds is exceeded, the transfer fails. When using VIDTEX emulation in COM-AND, it is not necessary to manually select PgUp/PgDn to send and receive files. In VIDTEX, COM-AND recognizes CIS's instructions to begin a protocol trans- fer once you have instructed CIS as to the transfer. A variant of CIS-B known as B+ (BPlus) is available in COM-AND. B+ supports limited windowing and larger block lengths. It also changes the quoting mechanism to optimize binary transfer and accomodate network peculiarities. B+ also provides failed download recovery (if you have enabled it in Alt-O). When recovery is enabled, and the name supplied duplicates an existing file, the transfer begins at the old end- of-file. Presumably, the file is there as the result of a failed transfer. CIS B+, however, actually TESTs the file's data to verify the request; if the test fails, COM-AND downloads the entire file with the last character(s) of the name changed ('$'). B+ is quite efficient, even in a networked environment, and offers transfer efficiencies comparable to ZMODEM or YMODEM. The original CISB is less efficient... but more efficient than XMODEM or other protocols offered by CIS. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 51 XIII. File Transfer (continued) F. ASCII Upload (PgUp, and F5) File data may be transmitted to a system using a simple 'send' (as if entered by hand). When an ASCII upload is invoked, you are prompted for a file name. Once the file has been opened, you are prompted with a small menu with various options: . Host prompting Transfer may occur in one of two ways: 1) with a prompt from the host (some special character) or 2) without a host prompt for every line. If 'Host prompting' is set 'On', you are asked for the prompt character (either an ASCII or a control character). The prompt character is entered as you see it, unless it is a control character (e.g. enter ^J for a line feed). . Send linefeeds Line feeds may be suppressed during the transmission. ASCII text files contain line feeds you (usually) do not send. . Expand tabs Similarly, tab characters may or may not be expanded during the transmission. ASCII text files contain tabs you (usually) want to expand during transmission. . Stop at control-z Transfer may be terminated when an an end-of-file character (control-Z) is encountered. This is the case in most ASCII files. . Respect XON/XOFF ASCII upload uses the default XON/XOFF setting established through Alt-O. You may change the setting here temporarily. We do not recommend this - use Alt-O instead. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 52 XIII. File Transfer (continued) F. ASCII Upload (continued) . Expand blank lines You may choose to expand null lines to a blank line. This is convenient on many BBS's, where at least one blank is required for an entry to be interpreted as text. . Line pacing You may choose to send lines of text with fixed delays between lines. This is needed on some systems. You may set the delay in intervals of 1/10th of a second. Transfer is, in all cases, paced (timed). Transmission begins at maximum speed. You may alter the pacing with the Ctl-PgUp and Ctl-PgDn keys during the transmission. Ctl-Home increases the speed to its maximum. Ctl-End decreases the transmission speed to its minimum. ESC or F1-F10 terminates the send. The ASCII send function in COM-AND responds to XON/XOFF sequences transmitted by the host (when this function is enabled). When an XOFF is received, COM-AND waits up to 30 seconds for a subsequent XON. Transmission is suspended while COM-AND waits. Transmis- sion resumes after 30 seconds, or after COM-AND receives an XON. ---------------------------------------------------------------- NOTE: When host prompting is specified, the first line is sent and then COM-AND waits for a host prompt. Should the prompt from the the host be lost (inadvertently, of course), the left arrow key (or function key (F1-F10)) sends the next line. ---------------------------------------------------------------- NOTE: When host prompting is specified, COM-AND 'looks ahead' in the file being transmitted. COM-AND does not wait for a prompt when end-of-file follows the last carriage return in the file. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 53 XIII. File Transfer (continued) F. ASCII Upload (continued) ---------------------------------------------------------------- NOTE: When stop-on-control-z is specified, COM-AND transmits a carriage return on end-of-file (if a carriage return was not the last character transmitted). ---------------------------------------------------------------- NOTE: The percent transmitted is incorrect when the file being transmitted is small (less than 1000 bytes). Don't be surprised. I was. Sorry 'bout that. G. ASCII Download (PgDn, and F6) ASCII downloads differ from transcripting (F7) in that no extra characters are added to the file (i.e. line feeds after received carriage returns, and end-of-file are added when transcripting). Transcripting is intended to result in an ASCII edit file (or a printed log). ASCII downloads may implement binary transfers. XON/XOFF flow control is performed during an ASCII download according to the current Alt-O setting. Anything you type while the download function is being performed is transmitted to the host system. ESC or F1-F10 terminates the receive function and closes the capture file. COM-AND functions (macros, scripts etc) are not available during an ASCII receive. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 54 XIII. File Transfer (continued) H. File directory (Alt-F) A directory of files on any legitimate disk may be requested with Alt-F. A search mask is requested. Enter one just as you would with the DIR command of DOS. For example: D:*.TXT specifies all files with the extension "TXT" from the "D" drive. File names and modification dates are displayed, 20 at a time. When the list is exhausted, the amount of free space remaining on the specified drive is displayed. Should you wish a search of a subdirectory, you must enter a full file mask. The mask: C:\TEMP specifies a search on the root directory for a file named TEMP with no extension. If you want to search the TEMP subdirectory of the root directory, enter: C:\TEMP\*.* I. Default download path (F4) All file receive functions of COM-AND write to a default path, unless the given file name is qualified (with a drive and/or path). The default drive:path is set through the F4 function. Please note that this setting is automatically saved for the next use of COM-AND. No "do you wish to save this setting" prompt is used here; the setting is permanent until next changed. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 55 XIV. Logging and Call-logging COM-AND offers two methods to log activity for later review. The two methods are transcripting and call-logging. The transcript records every character of received text... the call-log records calls made through the dialing directory, hangups, carrier dropouts, file transfers, accessory programs, and file encryption/decryption. Generally speaking, the transcript function is invoked when you want an exact record of everything you've seen (COM-AND even allows you to transcript text seen BEFORE transcripting is turned on). It is not used all the time. The call-log is enabled once, and left to record all system activity. A transcript is an ASCII file recording all text you captured. The only discussion of its contents needed is to point out that COM-AND marks the time of transcript start and end, unless you direct other- wise (through Alt-O, transcript marking). The call-log, however, requires some further discussion. The call- log is an ASCII file too. The call-log contents are fixed in format. An example of such a log might be: COM-AND loaded CONNECT: CIS 2400 (chicago) 2400,E,7,1,COM2;ATDT263-5636 Dnl BAROQUE.BAS 7552 ( 0:00:32) 98.3% QuickB 0 errs DISCONNECT ( 0:02:33) CONNECT: Source (Chi) C S15 1200,N,8,1,COM2;ATDT938-0600 Dnl YES.BAS 2008 ( 0:00:27) 64.3% Super KERMIT 1 errs DISCONNECT ( 0:04:57) CONNECT: Scintillation 2400,N,8,1,COM2;ATDT953-4922 Dnl MAZE.ARC 34816 ( 0:02:36) 92.9% YMODEM (chk) 0 errs CARRIER dropped: ( 0:06:02) COM-AND exited ( 0:14:57) COM-AND loaded * Annotation line entered through Alt-U * I'm going to encrypt/decrypt a file for demonstration ENCRYPT: COM-AND.EXE to ENCRFILE 154567 ( 0:00:17) DECRYPT: ENCRFILE to DECRFILE 154568 ( 0:00:11) COM-AND exited ( 0:02:33) ACCESSORY: PC-VCO Maug mode: PC-VCO.EXE /2/m/s Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 56 XIV. Logging and Call-logging (continued) In the above example, the timestamp from each line has been removed to make it more easily read in document form. Each line of the call-log is discussed below. o COM-AND loaded The "COM-AND loaded" line is issued to timestamp the time COM-AND was invoked from DOS. This is only logged, of course, when call- logging had been previously enabled. o CONNECT: <name> <commparms> ;<dialing string> The "CONNECT" line is logged when a connection has been made through the dialing directory (Alt-D, Alt-R, and script DIAL and MANUAL commands). <Name> is taken from the dialing directory. <Commparms> record the current setting and port after connection. <Dialing string> records the dialing sequence passed the modem. o Dnl <file name> <size> <time> <eff>% <method> <errs> Upl <file name> <size> <time> <eff>% <method> <errs> The "Dnl" and "Upl" lines record downloads and uploads (performed through PgDn, PgUp keys, and script GETFILE, SENDFILE commands). <Size>, <time>, <eff>, <errs> and <method> record the file size, transfer time, efficiency of transfer, count of errors, and method used (XMODEM, CISB etc). Errored transfers are also recorded, with "error = nnn" in place of <size><time><eff%>. COM-AND error numbers are listed in an appendix of the document CASCRIPT.DOC. Note: ASCII file transfers are not call-logged. o DISCONNECT (<time>) The "DISCONNECT" line records a manual hangup (Alt-H). If a connection is known, the time since the connection was made is recorded. o CARRIER dropped: (<time>) The "CARRIER dropped" line records a loss of carrier when a connection is known. The time since the connection was made is recorded. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 57 XIV. Logging and Call-logging (continued) o * <annotation> Annotation lines (added through Alt-U) are delimited with asterisks (note: lines written to the call-log through the script CLOG statement are not necessarily delimited). o ENCRYPT: <fromfile> to <tofile> <size> (<time>) DECRYPT: <fromfile> to <tofile> <size> (<time>) The "ENCRYPT" and "DECRYPT" lines record successful file encryp- tion and decryption (Alt-N and script ENCRYPT, DECRYPT commands). <Fromfile>, <tofile>, <Size>, and <time> record the files used, file size, and processing time. Errored encryption and decryption attempts are not recorded. o COM-AND exited (<time>) The "COM-AND exited" line is issued to timestamp the time COM-AND terminated. The total time COM-AND was in use is recorded. o COM-AND exited (CONNECT=<time>) (<time>) This form of the "COM-AND exited" line is issued to timestamp the time COM-AND terminated, when a connection is known. The time since the connection was made is recorded as well as the total time COM-AND was in use is recorded. o ACCESSORY: <F1 menu name> <program invocation> The "ACCESSORY" lines record a program loaded by COM-AND through the F1 Accessory menu (accessory entries which do not load a pro- gram are not recorded). The entry name and the program invoca- tion are logged. Accessory terminations and process creation errors are not logged. Script files without a subsequent program are not logged when executed. Keyboard commands relating to logging and call-logging follow on the next page. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 58 XIV. Logging and Call-logging (continued) A. Disk logging [transcripting] (F7) You may transcript what you receive to a disk (or PRN) with the "Disk logging" function. The transcript is marked with the date and time it began and ended if transcript marking is set on through the Alt-O screen. COM-AND keeps the last characters received in a buffer for back- screen (or redisplay). The size of the buffer is adjustable through Alt-S. When you invoke transcripting, you are asked if the backscreen is to be saved first. If you respond "Y", the backscreen is written to the transcript file before the "BEGIN" mark (if marking is enabled). F7 is a toggle (press it a second time to terminate logging. B. Log hold [transcripting] (F9) The transcript may be suspended with the F9 toggle. Logging status is displayed on the status line (if KBD buffer hasn't been enabled). When the log is held, what is received is not copied to the transcript. No mark is made to show the transcript was held. This key is a toggle (press it again to resume logging). C. Annotate call-log (Alt-U) Notes may be made directly to the call-log (not the transcript). [If no call-log is active, you are asked if you wish to open a call-log. However, the call-log is closed when you exit COM-AND and not reopened the next time, unless you save the option option through Alt-O.] The Alt-U window allows you to enter a line at a time to the call- log. Each line is delimited with an asterisk ("*"). When you press <cr>, the line is written to the call-log. The last three lines so entered are displayed for convenience. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 59 XV. Miscellaneous Functions A. Default Drive:Subdirectory (F3) You may change the default drive:subdirectory at any time through the F3 window. This affects files uploaded but not files down- loaded (see File Transfers, page 54). When the program terminates, you are left on the selected drive:path. B. Keyboard display (F8) Some talk systems are more friendly when what you type is not mixed in with what you receive. Turning echo off (if the system echoes key-entry) may be accomplished in a number of ways (note: this is different from program echo, Alt-E, above). However, all of a sudden there is a new problem: you don't see what you're typing! Keyboard display in COM-AND is one way to solve this problem. What you type is displayed on the status line when keyboard display is turned on. Keyboard display may be set on permanently through the Alt-O options window. C. Chat mode (Alt-A) Chat mode is another way to make typing more friendly when what you type isn't echoed by the host. A 'chat window' of 2-10 lines may be opened just above the status line. The last few lines you've typed are displayed there. Chat mode may be set on permanently through the Alt-O options window. You may specify the size of the Chat window in Alt-S. D. Redisplay [backscreen] (Alt-B) COM-AND saves lines scrolled 'off' the screen for redisplay (up to the buffer size set through Alt-S). When you request redisplay, the screen is 'frozen' (as the last page of the backscreen). You may page backwards and forwards using the 'PgUp', and 'PgDn' keys. The 'Home' key finds the first page of the redisplay. The 'End' key move to the last page of the redisplay. Exit redisplay with the ESC key. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 60 XV. Miscellaneous Functions (continued) E. Clear Screen (Alt-C and received TOF) The command Alt-C entered at the keyboard clears the screen. Similarly, when the host sends a control-L (^L or decimal 12) the screen is cleared. F. Echo (Alt-E) COM-AND writes keypresses directly through the COM port. Some services turn around what is sent to be visible ("full duplex", or echoplex) and some don't ("half duplex"). You may force COM-AND to display what you type in the CRT window by toggling echo. Setting echo on through the Alt-O window turns echo on immediately, and the next time you run COM-AND. Echo may be set for each call through the dialing directory and permanently through the Alt-O options window. The dialing directory setting overrides Alt-O, of course. G. Blank line suppression (Alt-G) Blank lines may be suppressed from the display if you choose. This is especially useful when double spacing is done by a system's conference area. Blank line suppression may be set permanently through the Alt-O options window. H. 43(50)/25 line toggle (Alt-L) If you have an EGA (or VGA) adapter, you may want 43(50) line displays. If you enter COM-AND from a 43(50) line screen, COM-AND automatically displays in 43(50) line mode. Alt-L may be used to toggle 25/43(50) line line modes during COM-AND. Do not use Alt-L during VIDTEX sessions on CIS. CIS does use the new setting. I. Kermit parameters (Alt-K) The parameters COM-AND uses during the KERMIT negotiation may be changed and saved using the Alt-K menu. It is not recommended you change these values unless you understand their meaning completely. The supplied defaults are suitable for most KERMIT installations. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 61 XV. Miscellaneous Functions (continued) J. Time and alarms (Alt-T) The time elapsed since the program started, and since the last Alt-D dialing command or Alt-R is displayed through the Alt-T window. The 'last call' time may be reset (if you are actually connected) manually here (or through a script). An alarm may also be set here, either for the single session or permanently (every time you use COM-AND). When the alarm is triggered, a pop-up window and a tune announce the fact. K. Playback (Alt-W) You may display the contents of a file in the CRT area with Alt-W, Playback. You are asked for a file name. The contents of the file are displayed in the text area as if text were being received. Playback is paced (timed). It begins at minimum speed. Alter the pacing with the Ctl-PgUp and Ctl-PgDn keys. Pause the playback with the space bar. Cancel the display with ESC. L. Program termination (Alt-X) COM-AND is exited (and returns to DOS) with the Alt-X. The usual query "are you sure" is issued if "Exit query" is turned on with the Alt-O selection. When you exit COM-AND, unless you ran COM-AND with the /P switch (piggyback), you are asked about hangup if carrier is reported by the modem. [If piggyback is set, or if CDRESPECT is OFF, you are not queried.] NOTE: a script may override the Alt-X function. When a script has done this, after Alt-X is pressed (and after the hangup query if it is needed) a new script may start! Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 62 XV. Miscellaneous Functions (continued) M. Parity (hi-bit) mask (Alt-Z) You may mask parity from every received character by setting the parity mask on permanently through the Alt-O window. I've found this useful, mandatory when I've needed it. Some services require you to logon with 8 data bits, no parity, if you intend to download (or upload files). When there is an X.25 network between your PC and the service, certain characters (such as backspace may be transmitted with parity on, regardless of your setting). In these cases, parity masking is very nice to have. Toggle the current parity mask setting with Alt-Z. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 63 XVI. DOS Gateway (Alt-F10) COM-AND offers a gateway to a DOS shell through Alt-F10. The DOS gateway requires a few preliminaries, however. . There must be sufficient memory for the current DOS shell (usually COMMAND.COM), COM-AND, and a second DOS shell. If there is insuf- ficient memory, the Alt-F10 is rejected for 'insufficient memory'. . There should be an environment variable 'COMSPEC' pointing to the DOS shell for Alt-F10 to load. If this variable is missing (has been deleted), COMMAND.COM on the default drive, root directory is used (if present). When the DOS gateway is entered, you can perform any DOS function that the shell supports. Memory available to that shell is decreased by the presence of COM-AND still running. You return to COM-AND by exiting the DOS shell. [If the shell is COMMAND.COM, type the command 'EXIT' to return to COM-AND. Exit other shells accordingly.] ------------------------------------------------------------------ NOTE: In order to make full use of the DOS gateway, you must provide yourself with the capacity for more open files than the default. The number of files allowed open at any one time is increased by editing the file CONFIG.SYS on the root directory of your boot disk, adding (or changing) a line: "FILES=n", where n is a number from 1 to 20. At least 12 is recommended. Refer to your DOS manual for particulars. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 64 XVII. Emulation (Alt-V) COM-AND supports several terminal emulations. COM-AND defines 'terminal emulation' as three individual functions: o Display emulations o Translations of received and transmitted characters o Keyboard remapping All three functions are controlled through the Alt-V menu. However, translations and remapping require preparation external to COM-AND. A. Display emulation COM-AND supports five display emulations: TTY, ANSI, VidTex, VT100, and VT52 in the current release. Display emulations are selected through Alt-V. The setting is enabled as soon is it selected. Save the setting if COM-AND is to use the setting every time it is loaded. . TTY is appropriate for most BBSes and host systems. What is received is displayed and what it typed is sent. . ANSI is appropriate for some BBSes and some host systems. The host is given considerable control over cursor positioning and display colors. [Details of ANSI display sequences are discussed below in Appendix E.] . VidTex is appropriate only for the CompuServe (tm) system. The mode MUST be set before logging onto CompuServe if you want to use this mode. CompuServe does not allow you to change 'modes' after logging on. [See Appendix F.] . VT100 and VT52 emulations are appropriate only for certain host systems and communications applications. [Details of VT100/VT52 display sequences are discussed in Appendix E.] Display emulation in COM-AND only refers to COM-AND's response to certain control sequences received from the host. Selection of a display emulation has no effect on character translation or on keyboard remapping. Character translation and keyboard remapping must be specified independently (see the following). Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 65 XVII. Emulation (continued) B. Translation COM-AND translates characters both incoming and outgoing if you choose. Characters are translated immediately upon receipt, and just before transmission, using two tables (one incoming and one for outgoing) supplied in the file COM-AND.XLT. When translation is enabled, the only cases where characters are NOT translated is within the binary protocols (XMODEM, YMODEM, KERMIT, and CIS-B), and when modem commands are issued. The file COM-AND.XLT is a binary file. It must be supplied by you. COM-AND.XLT consists of two tables: each 256 bytes in size. Within a table, the 'nth' byte contains the translation for the character of value 'n'. Within the 'incoming' table, you are translating character with value 'n' received, to something else (hopefully ASCII). Within the 'outgoing' table, you are translating a character (probably ASCII again, e.g. a keypress) of value 'n' into something else. On the incoming side, translating a character to a null indicates COM-AND is to ignore the character. Obviously, the creation and maintenance of such a file is quite an effort. It requires an ASCII table t'boot! A script, XLATE. CMD is supplied to serve to format, display and edit the tables. You'll still need the ASCII table, however. [Within the PC, all characters are treated as ASCII (as defined by IBM of course).] Translation is enabled and disabled through Alt-V (it may also be enabled or disabled through the XLATE.CMD script). The table(s) may be edited at any time. The new values are not used by COM-AND until translation is re-enabled (turned ON) after the changes are saved to disk. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 66 XVII. Emulation (continued) C. Remapping To complete the overall function of 'emulation', COM-AND offers an internal 'keyboard remapping' function. Remapping makes COM- AND see a keystroke as another keystroke or even a string of keys. When a remapped key is pressed, COM-AND sees the key(s) redefining it instead. Remaps allow the COM-AND to provide a keyboard similar to a ter- minal being emulated. One immediate difficulty presents itself, however... within COM-AND, certain keys have certain meanings (e.g. F1 for a help screen, Alt-F10 for shell-to-DOS and so on). When you redefine a key COM-AND uses, either some other key must be redefined to replace it or the function in COM-AND is lost while the remap is in effect. Remaps only affect actual keystrokes when pressed; they do not have any affect on characters within the binary protocols (XMODEM, YMODEM, KERMIT, and CIS-B), or script TRANSMIT text. Remaps are specified through a binary file, COM-AND.RMP. It must be created outside of COM-AND. COM-AND.RMP consists of one table, defining keys being remapped and their new value(s). Needless to say: the creation and maintenance of such a file is more effort than dealing with the translation tables! A script, REMAP.CMD is supplied to create a suitable COM-AND.RMP file. REMAP.CMD compiles a simple language for remapping. Keys (such as F1) are given 'names' (Function key F1 is 'F1'). A simple syntax is defined to redefine any key COM-AND can detect. REMAP.CMD expects a source file prepared with a text editor (like a script). It compiles the source file into COM-AND.RMP. Sample remaps (in source form) are provided in REMAPS.TXT. Remapping is enabled/disabled through Alt-V (also through the REMAP.CMD script and Alt-O). The table may be reconstructed at any time; the new table is not used by COM-AND until remapping is enabled again (turned ON) after the changes are saved to disk. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 67 XVII. Emulation (continued) D. Other related settings Two related settings are available through Alt-V. They are: . Status Line ON/OFF The status line may be disabled through Alt-V, yielding the last line of the display for received text. When the status line is disabled, the keyboard buffer (F8) is disabled, of course. How- ever, the special script/statement buffer invoked with Alt-2-5-5 is NOT disabled... just invisible. When COM-AND is used in tandem with DOORWAY (see Appendix S) or a Doorway-like utility, disable the status line for the best effect. . Wrap ON/OFF Line wrapping at the last character position may be disabled. For most purposes, this is undesirable... however, again, with DOORWAY and Doorway-like utilities, it may be best to disable line-wrap. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 68 XVIII. Script Language A script automates certain manual tasks, and allows COM-AND to run unattended (in some cases). Scripting is invoked in several ways: o when COM-AND is loaded: .. COM-AND.CMD, is executed immediately if found .. INSTALL.CMD, is executed if the file COM-AND.DFT is created (not updated), if INSTALL.CMD is available .. the /F switch in the run command specifies a script to execute immediately (after COM-AND.CMD, and INSTALL.CMD) o interactively (F2) o attached to a dialing directory entry Script commands are read by COM-AND from an ASCII file (wordprocessor files are not usually ASCII files (!)). COM-AND's internal editor (Alt-Q), programmer's text editors, and EDLIN (included with DOS) may be used to create and modify a script file. [If you use a word processor to update a script, ensure the particular program can write an ASCII file (often called non-document format, perhaps even called ASCII).] Once a script begins, execution of COM-AND is automatic, driven by the script. However, the ESC key may be used to terminate most (but not all) scripts at any time. During dialing, two ESCs are needed. One terminates the dial function, and the second ends the script. Generally, a script takes the form: <perform some action> <wait for a response> <perform some action... and so on. For example, a script might dial a number listed in the dialing directory and wait for the "ID = " prompt from the dialed host. The scripts included with COM-AND provide examples of such scripts. However, the COM-AND script language is not limited to just such tasks... programs may be loaded and passed parameters, screen windows may be opened and scrolled... A nontrivial BBS has been written as a COM-AND script, and is provided with the distribution for the interested (and intrepid!). Documentation for the COM-AND script language is presented in the separate document CASCRIPT.DOC. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 69 XIX. Text Editor A light-duty text editor is available within COM-AND, invoked with Alt-Q. An editor has been included for many reasons... . Scripts written for COM-AND are ASCII text files. Popular word-processors do NOT produce ASCII files (unless the capa- bility is provided, and the word processor is then instruc- ted to produce an ASCII file)... . Many scripts (such as the scripted BBS) eventually need a text editor to prepare text (such as a reply to a note) to use within the script. . Often, the need arises to view a capture log quickly, or to view the call-log... The text editor within COM-AND is a light-duty editor, capable of opening up to 5 files at one time. Each file may be up to 19,200 lines, each line limited to 128 characters. It is intended for viewing and searching long files, and the creation of short files. This text editor is limited, when modifying text, by the size of memory available above COM-AND. It does not use EMS memory, and does not spill to disk. For this reason, it is a light duty editor. The text editor is invoked from COM-AND with Alt-Q. Alt-Q prompts for a file name. Press ESC at this prompt to return to COM-AND. The file name you enter may exist, but need not exist. Within the editor, F10 provides a summary of editor commands. Documentation for the COM-AND text editor is presented in the separate document CAEDIT.DOC. Please refer to it for details. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 70 XX. Program Requirements This program is coded for an IBM PC or DOS compatible machine. COM-AND does direct-to-screen buffer fetches and stores (unless BIOS screen updates are directed using the /C switch or the Alt-O options menu). Note: COM-AND is TopView aware even without the /C switch (or Alt-O option). COM-AND supports MDA, CGA, EGA, VGA and Hercules. COM-AND supports a Microsoft Mouse if one is available. COM-AND disk I/O is done through the 'Handle' oriented I/O routines added to DOS 2.0. Therefore DOS 2.0 is a minimum requirement. COM-AND (Version 2.9) requires 277K for itself. You need 384K minimally to use COM-AND and the DOS Gateway, and more to take advantage of accessories. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 71 XXI. Program and Author Information This program was written using Microsoft Macro-Assembler. The author likes assembler. Assembly language is an entirely appropriate vehicle for some of the program, and a not-inappro- priate vehicle for the rest of it. Everything, in moderation... COM-AND has been written by, and is supported by R. Scott McGinnis (CABER Software) of Chicago, Illinois. My GEnie and Delphi IDs are: TARTAN. My CIS ID is 73147,2665. Comment and suggestions (and criticism in moderation) are welcomed: CABER Software R. (Scott) McGinnis P.O. Box 3607 Mdse Mart Chicago, IL 60654-0607 I want to thank the sysops on GEnie, Paul Homchick, David Kozinn and Charles Strom for their support of this program in its early days (known as PC-VCO). Their opening an RTC just for PC-VCO made it possible to reach a wide audience quickly and to gather comments and criticism from people using the program. I thank my wife, Elizabeth, who supported this effort and doesn't laugh at me (except for the time I tried to squeeze between a grape arbor and a board fence...). She has been my companion and partner for many years and I am grateful. I also thank Jim Aspinwall, who contributed the Appendix below on modem initializations, and Dr. David Snyder, who contributed the marvelous TARTAN icon for COM-AND under Windows 3.0. This program (Version 2.9) may be distributed freely along with its accessories with the caveat: the Author information displayed at program termination may not be removed. If the program is USED after a 30 day evaluation, you MUST pay for it (see REGISTER.DOC). PROCOMM, PCPLus, and ASPECT are trademarks of the DataStorm cor- poration. DSZ is a trademark of OMEN Technology. Windows is a trademark of the MicroSoft Corporation. DesqView is a trademark of the QuarterDeck Corporation. Smartmodem is a trademark of the Hayes Corporation. Version 2.9: 921203 COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 72 A. Switches and parameters Program Switches: /A 'Chat mode': COM-AND may be set to default to the chat mode split screen through the Alt-O options menu. However, you may wish to turn chat on for some systems and off for others. /B 'Black and White mode': COM-AND may be set to use or not use colors on-screen with the Alt-J Colors menu. /B on the command line is an expedient way to turn colors off temporarily. /C 'Compatible': COM-AND normally does direct screen buffer reads and writes for its pop-up menus. The /C switch forces COM-AND to use BIOS for all such references (e.g. when under WINDOWS). /E 'no EGA': Turn off EGA/VGA support (forcing 25 line mode when COM-AND is entered in 43(50) line mode). /F 'Execute script': The /F switch followed by a legitimate file name (for example /FPLINK.CMD) designates that file for execu- tion as a script after COM-AND is loaded. The file name given defaults to .CMD (and .ENF) if the name-as-given is not found. /G 'Blank line suppression': Blank lines are used to double space on some systems. Alt-G toggles a blank line suppression feature interactively. /G in the run command turns the feature on when COM-AND is loaded. This feature may also be set through Alt-O. /H 'No mode': inhibit COM-AND from changing screen mode when the screen is initialized. /I 'No Init': inhibit the modem initialization string from being transmitted at run-time. /J 'PCJr': Suspend comm during disk I/O, when logging, WXMODEM, CIS BPlus and Super KERMIT. /K 'KBD Buffer': Turn on KBD buffer (F8). /L 'EGA/VGA mode': Set 43(50) line mode on upon entry. This is is automatic if COM-AND is entered from a 43(50) line screen. This feature may be toggled within COM-AND with Alt-L. /M 'No Mouse': Turn off MOUSE support (e.g. when running under WINDOWS or DesqView). Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 73 A. Switches and Parameters (continued) /P 'Piggyback': COM-AND opens the COM port in such a manner as to retain another program's already opened line. When COM-AND is exited, the previous state is restored. /Q 'No COM-AND.CMD': This switch inhibits the automatic execution of COM-AND.CMD (if one is present). It is provided for batch invocations, where the automatic script might require action. /R 'Report Receive Errors': This switch reports ALL receive errors. During testing, certain nodes of certain networks consistently reported framing errors. The apparent error did not interfere, so report of it was suppressed. /S 'Bidirectional flow control': This switch sets 'Bidirectional Flow control' ON at load time. When this switch is set, RTS is turned high when COM-AND is able to read, and (CTS) is awaited before writes. Certain modems do not work with this discipline. Other modems (especially the new 9600 bps modems) and interconnects require it. The option may be set permanently through Alt-O. /T 'Carrier override': This switch forces COM-AND to ignore the carrier detect sense reported by the MODEM. COM-AND tests the carrier detect sense during all file transfers, and through the script processor. A few modems apparently cannot (???) report carrier detect. This switch facilitates the use of COM-AND on those modems (to perform file transfers). /V 'Menu mode': This switch forces COM-AND to initialize in menu mode. The top line menu comes up after initialization. /W 'Slow transfers': This switch forces COM-AND to slow down its file transfers. COM-AND uses interrupt driven writes for file transfers... which is too fast for some network modems (!). This switch enables COM-AND's use with those modems. /X 'Debug mode': This switch enables certain resident debugging keys (such as Ctl-F2, which writes a dump of memory to disk). I do not recommend you use it. I document it only for the curious. /Z 'REMOTE commands': This switch allows COM-AND to perform script commands received through the sequence: "ESC ^ <text> <cr>". This switch overrides the Alt-O setting. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 74 A. Switches and Parameters (continued) Program parameters: COM1 COM-AND uses the COM1 port COM2 COM-AND uses the COM2 port COM3 COM-AND uses the COM3 port (base addr 3e8h) COM4 COM-AND uses the COM4 port (base addr 2e8h) 300 COM-AND uses port at 300 bps 1200 COM-AND uses port at 1200 bps 2400 COM-AND uses port at 2400 bps 4800 COM-AND uses port at 4800 bps 9600 COM-AND uses port at 9600 bps 14K COM-AND uses port at 14.4K bps 19K COM-AND uses port at 19.2K bps 38K COM-AND uses port at 38.4K bps 57K COM-AND uses port at 57.6K bps 115K COM-AND uses port at 115K bps EVEN COM-AND uses port with even parity ODD COM-AND uses port with odd parity NONE COM-AND uses port with no parity DATA7 COM-AND transmits/receives 7 data bits DATA8 COM-AND transmits/receives 8 data bits STOP1 COM-AND uses and expects 1 stop bit STOP2 COM-AND uses and expects 2 stop bits BIOS COM-AND uses BIOS for communications services; BIOS (#) (#) may be optional port # (parentheses required) Please refer to Appendix P, page 100. DIAL <n> After initialization, COM-AND dials directory entry <n>, using the rate, parity, data and stop bits as specified. Program switches require no delimiters. Parameters must be preceded by a blank. For example: A> COM-AND 1200 Run the program at 1200 bps A> COM-AND /L1200 43(50) line mode, 1200 bps A> COM-AND /L 1200 43(50) line mode, 1200 bps Program defaults are: "d"> COM-AND COMx 300 EVEN DATA7 STOP1 where COMx is the first installed port COM-AND can find. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 75 B. COM-AND Error display. One command not listed in the F10 help display is Alt-Y. This command displays RS232 and file errors encountered. RS232 errors list both the last error condition recorded and a count of errors. RS232 errors are: Receive error. The hex value represents: Bit 0: Shouldn't occur in display, but what do I know.... Bit 1: Overrun. Indicates a character waiting in the 8250 receive buffer was not read before the next character overwrote it. Bit 2: Parity error. Indicates the parity of a received character was incorrect. This report is normally suppressed. Enable it with the /R switch. Bit 3: Framing error. Indicates a character received lacked a valid stop bit. Bit 4: Break interrupt. Not too many systems send a break. Other bits of the LSR of the 8250 are masked off. Send error. The hex value represents: Bit 7: A timeout occurred in one of three places: . Waiting for DSR to go true . Waiting for CTS to go true . Waiting for the transmit holding register to clear The first two conditions are normally suppressed, but may be overridden with the /S switch. Other bits are masked out. There is serious trouble (or my over- sight) if anything but Hex 80 is reported. Buffer overflow. This program uses an interrupt service routine to read the COM port. The ISR fills a 4096 byte buffer. The application takes characters out of the circular receive buffer one by one. Buffer overflow may occur when the application is suspended; for example when a menu is pending attention, and flow control is not enabled. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 76 C. Files COM-AND expects the following files on the default drive/subdirectory (or COM-AND= environment variable specified drive/subdirectory): COM-AND.DFT Parameter save area (Alt-S, Alt-O and Alt-P) COM-AND.DIR Dialing directory (change name in Alt-S) COM-AND.MAC Macro definition (change name in Alt-S) COM-AND.ACC Accessory definitions (F1) (change name in Alt-S) COM-AND creates the .DFT file at load-time if not found. COM-AND automatically updates the .DFT file if the program version number is different from the .DFT file version number. COM-AND creates, if not present (filling with default values): an empty dialing directory, and empty macro definition, and an empty accessory definition. Different versions of COM-AND require dif- ferent structures to the .DFT file... previous versions (with the exception of 1.0) are accepted; however when a new major (e.g. 1.0, 2.0, ...) is released the previous .DFT file probably should be purged (and recreated by COM-AND). COM-AND also uses: COM-AND.XLT Translation tables; see XLATE.CMD script COM-AND.RMP Keyboard remapping table; see REMAP.CMD script COM-AND.LOG Default call-log file COM-AND.TUN Tune file (if present; ASCII file, PLAY data) COM-AND.CMD Automatic script (if present, executed at init) INSTALL.CMD Automatic script (if present, and if COM-AND.DFT is created (not updated)) COM-AND.RLE Last RLE viewed (used during receipt of RLEs) The ".RLE" and ".LOG" file names may be changed through the Alt-S (Setup) Menu. COM-AND currently implements the rule for file names: If the given file name carries a drive spec (i.e. C:) or path (subdirectory), the name is taken 'as is'. If neither is provided the default drive and subdirectory are added to the file name. COM-AND shares Dialing Directory and Macro Definition files with PROCOMM 2.4.2 and before. In this case, the subdirectory on which these files may be found must be specified through the Alt-S func- tion, and the values saved for subsequent executions. COM-AND's updates to these files are acceptable to PROCOMM, and PROCOMM's to COM-AND (true at least through Version 2.4.2 of PROCOMM). Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 77 D. Windowed XMODEM (WXMODEM) In June, 1986, Peter Boswell of PLINK issued a specification for an XMODEM protocol variant called Windowed XMODEM (WXMODEM to its friends). WXMODEM was designed primarily to overcome delays imposed by the X.25 networks. X.25 network delays are mostly imperceptible to conversational users of the networks... however, people performing file transfers might expect to see up to 50% of the transfer time eaten up in these delays! Asynchronous communications lines do not suffer these same delays. When one accustomed to Bulletin Boards (dialed through a direct phone line) enters the network environment, file transfers feel entirely 'too slow'. The difference is entirely in the network (and many times intervening satellite hops). Windowed XMODEM also accomodates the requirements of new services such as PC Pursuit... permitting XON/XOFF flow control by the network during a binary file transfer (this is not possible with XMODEM, as transparency is required). Flow control permits higher data rates while retaining existing network interconnects. Windowed XMODEM was implemented on PLINK in September, 1986. Many comm programs on many different machines have been modified or written to implement WXMODEM for PLINK communications. The differ- ence in throughput between CRC XMODEM and WXMODEM is astounding. I measure at least 35% and sometimes as much as 40% improvement in transfer times over CRC XMODEM. In real terms, this means the dif- ference between 24 minutes and 40 minutes for a download of the same (approximately 120K) file at 1200 bps. Windowed XMODEM is still a new protocol. Its developers discovered quite a few practicalities during its implementation that had not been addressed in the original specification. However, WXMODEM is now available on Delphi, and for various BBS's (TCOMM, and RBBS, for example). For the technically inclined, the Windowed XMODEM specification may be found on many bulletin boards and most systems as WXMODEM.ARC. An excellent analysis of XMODEM problems in an X.25 environment was also published (electronically) by Peter Boswell. In the latter paper, Peter quantifies exactly the delays and their predicted overhead in an X.25 environment. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 78 E. ANSI, VT100, and VT52 graphics 1. ANSI sequences COM-AND may be set to display ANSI graphics. ANSI graphics are used by some services and Bulletin Boards to enrich the display through screen formatting and colors. Beginning with Version 2.0 of this program, ANSI graphic software is entirely contained within COM-AND. Any errors in implementa- tion must be addressed to this developer. COM-AND implements the ANSI sequences as follows: ESC,'[#;#H' CUP: Cursor position; 1st #=row, 2nd=col ESC,'[;#H' CUP: Alternate cursor position to col ESC,'[#H' CUP: Alternate cursor position to row ESC,'[H' CUP: Alternate cursor position to home ESC,'[#;#f' HVP: Horiz/Vert pos; 1st = row, 2nd = col ESC,'[;#f' HVP: Alternate horiz/vert pos to col ESC,'[#f' HVP: Alternate horiz/vert pos to row ESC,'[f' HVP: Alternate horiz/vert pos to home ESC,'[#A' CUU: Cursor Up # rows ESC,'[#B' CUD: Cursor Down # rows ESC,'[#C' CUF: Cursor Forward # cols ESC,'[#D' CUB: Cursor Backward # cols ESC,'[6n' DSR: Device status rpt (rtns CPR) ESC,'[#;#R' CPR: Cursor position rpt (1st=row, 2nd=col) ESC,'[s' SCP: Save cursor position ESC,'[u' RCP: Restore cursor position ESC,'[#J' ED: Erase display (# = 0,1,2) ESC,'[#K' EL: Erase line (# = 0,1,2) ESC,'[&m' SGR: Set graphics rendition (&-> #[;#...]) ESC,'[=#h' SM: Set mode ESC,'[?7h' SM: Set wrap mode ESC,'[=#l' RM: Reset mode ESC,'[?7l' SM: Reset wrap mode The only sequence defined in ANSI.SYS (the device driver sup- plying ANSI emulation) not implemented in COM-AND is: Esc,'[...p' KKR: Keyboard key redefinition. I am considering implementing this sequence, with a menu to sup- port it as a 'different' sort of Macro facility. I'd like to hear comments from people reading this. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 79 E. ANSI, VT100 and VT52 graphics (continued) 1. ANSI sequences (continued) Under MS-DOS/PC-DOS, ANSI graphics are usually performed by the ANSI.SYS device driver. Replacements for ANSI.SYS are available on all the systems and boards, offering increased functionality and additional utility. For example, the FANSI device driver (sold by Hersey Micro Consulting) offers: . improvements in screen display speed, . considerably more control sequences than ANSI.SYS, . DEC VT100 emulation (which therefore is available to you in COM-AND if you use FANSI and turn DOS screen on), . a backscreen function which pages last-to-first, . one finger typing, . increased typeahead buffer size, . and many many other functional enhancements The implementation of ANSI within COM-AND does not negate any of these features (except perhaps terminal emulation). In order to use ANSI.SYS or any of its replacements through COM- AND, you must have a device driver installed in your DOS. Add the line: DEVICE=ANSI.SYS to the file CONFIG.SYS on the root directory of the boot disk, and reboot the PC (Ctl-Alt-Del). If there is no file named CONFIG.SYS on the root directory of your boot disk, create one containing the line above (see also the note on DOS gateway), and then reboot. Other device drivers, such as FANSI mentioned above, have their own installation requirements. Refer to the documentation for the device driver you wish to use for instructions. Once you've installed the ANSI device, you must turn COM-AND's ANSI and VIDTEX emulation off through the Alt-V menu. You must also turn on 'DOS screen writes' through Alt-O. With ANSI and VIDTEX off, and DOS on, all received text is routed through the ANSI device. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 80 E. ANSI, VT100, and VT52 graphics (continued) 2. VT100 sequences COM-AND performs a subset of VT100 escape sequences in display emulation. Display emulation is available through the Alt-V option 'VT100' (or in a script, 'EMULATE VT100'). The VT100 was originally created as an ANSI terminal. The difference between COM-AND's VT100 and ANSI modes is minor. There are the following differences to the above ANSI sequences: o Erase display does not position to home in VT100 o Erase line does not position to beginning of line in VT100 In addition to the ANSI sequences above, COM-AND VT100 emulation also adds the following sequences: ESC,'[?2l' Switch to VT52 mode ESC,'<' VT52: Change to VT100 (redundant) ESC,'>' Keypad numeric mode ESC,'=' Keypad application mode ESC,'7' Save cursor and attributes ESC,'8' Restore cursor and attributes ESC,'#3' Set cursor line to DH DW top half (literal '#') ESC,'#4' Set cursor line to DH DW bot half (literal '#') ESC,'#5' Set cursor line to SH SW (literal '#') ESC,'#6' Set cursor line to SH DW (literal '#') ESC,'#:' Set cursor line to DH SW top half (literal '#') ESC,'#;' Set cursor line to DH SW bot half (literal '#') ESC,'[#;#r' Set scrolling region ESC,'[?#l' Reset (parameter controls) ESC,'[?#h' Set (parameter controls) ESC,'[>#l' Reset (parameter controls) ESC,'[>#h' Set (parameter controls) ESC,'[20l' Reset LF to new ln (unused) ESC,'[20h' Set new line mode (unused) ESC,'[#q' LED controls (unused) Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 81 E. ANSI, VT100, and VT52 graphics (continued) 2. VT100 sequences (continued) COM-AND's VT100 emulation Displays from one of two character sets, designated G0 and G1 in VT100 nomenclature. The identity of each set and the current controlling set is determined through the following sequences: ESC,')A' Designate UK set as G1 ESC,')B' Designate ASCII set as G1 ESC,')0' Designate graphics set as G1 ESC,')1' Designate Alternate char set as G1 ESC,')2' Designate special graphics as G1 ESC,'(A' Designate UK set as G0 ESC,'(B' Designate ASCII set as G0 ESC,'(0' Designate graphics set as G0 ESC,'(1' Designate Alternate char set as G0 ESC,'(2' Designate special graphics as G0 ESC,'D' Move cursor down a line ESC,'E' Move cursor down a line to col 0 ESC,'M' Move cursor up a line SI (15) Shift in (use G0 char set) SO (14) Shift out (use G1 char set) COM-AND implements the UK set identically to ASCII at this time. The graphics set, alternate set and special graphics sets use an approximation from the high order characters (128-255). Finally, COM-AND supports these inquiry sequences: ESC,Z Report identity ESC,'c' Report device attributes ESC,'0c' Report device attributes The response to these three 'report' sequences above is the same in all cases: VT100 without a printer (which is ESC,'[?1;2c'). Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 82 E. ANSI, VT100, and VT52 graphics (continued) 3. VT52 sequences COM-AND is capable of accepting VT52 escape sequences as well. CIS in VIDTEX mode uses a mix of ANSI, and VT52 sequences to format the screen. Beginning with version 2.3 of this program, VT52 cursor control is available if the Alt-V option 'VT52' is enabled (or in a script, 'EMULATE VT52'). COM-AND implements the following VT52 sequences: ESC,'A' CUU: Cursor up ESC,'B' CUD: Cursor down ESC,'C' CUF: Cursor forward ESC,'D' CUB: Cursor backward ESC,'H' CUH: Cursor home ESC,'J' ES: Erase from cursor to end of screen ESC,'K' EL: Erase from cursor to end of line ESC,'Yrc' CUP: Horiz/Vert pos; r= row+32, c= col+32 ESC,'j' CS: Clear screen and home cursor ESC,'<' VT100: Switch to VT100 mode Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 83 F. Vidtex and RLE files 1. Vidtex COM-AND emulates a 'VIDTEX' screen mode as an option. Vidtex is a special service of CompuServe (CIS). It is enabled: o Alt-V (set VIDTEX screen mode ON), or o script "SET ENQ CISB" or "EMULATE VIDTEX" statements Vidtex screen mode provides several features to the CIS user: o Screen displays are formatted to appear 'full screen'. If color is available, it is used. The current screen size is known to CIS as well. o File transfers are automatic. CIS asks the name a file is to take on your machine, and then prompts COM-AND for the transfer. PgDn and PgUp are not needed. o RLE files are displayed automatically. There are several drawbacks to the VIDTEX screen mode, too: o CIS assumes you are going to use B+ for file transfers. It doesn't ask for alternatives. o Alt-L screen size may not be toggled during a VIDTEX session. The screen size at the time of logon is reported to CIS, and there is no method (now) to report a change of size. o Vidtex control sequences are captured (along with text) when transcripting. These are easy to edit out, but distracting. Again, VIDTEX can't be turned off easily during a session. o Other systems may from time-to-time use the ENQ character for special functions. You should ensure VIDTEX mode is 'off' when you use such a system. CIS inquires the capability of a communication program with the sequence: ESC,'I'. COM-AND responds (in VIDTEX mode) with: #IBX,SSyx,AC/CA/CC,GH,GM,PB,DT,+<checksum> The SS parameter specifies screen size. The AC/CA/CC choice is made according to whether color is set through Alt-J. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 84 F. Vidtex and RLE files (continued) 2. RLE files Although created on CompuServe, RLE (run length encoded) graphics files have been popular for some time on the services and BBS's. One reason is because the format is not machine specific. Most any flavor of PC having a graphics display may view and create graphics images in RLE format. The resolution is limited (256 horizontal pixels by 192 lines). RLE images are monochrome (although I know there are some people who've experimented with color information embedded in RLE files). But RLE files do provide one medium of graphics exchange between differing personal computers. RLEs are encoded as 7 bit ASCII data. Normally, an RLE file would be viewed through something like an ASCII download. [PLINK, for one, had trouble with this. It backscanned text lines, removing blanks. This is death for an RLE graphics image.] COM-AND recognizes RLE control sequences when they are encountered in the stream of received text. When COM-AND encounters an RLE sequence, it attempts to switch to graphics mode. If successful, COM-AND then displays the image as it is received, and buffers the image in a temporary file. Upon completion of the image, COM-AND prompts for a save file name. You may ignore the save step, and throw away the picture in good conscience, as you now know what it shows. Or you may of course opt to save it for later playback. You may disable this feature of COM-AND through the Alt-O options menu. --------------------------------------------------------------- CIS Users NOTE: CIS 'tests' your terminal program each time you request an RLE viewing. COM-AND responds to the test only if you have set emulation to 'VIDTEX' or used the equivalent script statement. If the option is not enabled, CIS tells you "Your terminal program is not equipped ... do you wish to proceed?" If you answer "y", CIS sends the RLE file, and COM-AND displays it nicely. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 85 G. External protocol drivers COM-AND supports external protocol drivers through its F1 (acces- sories) menu. You may edit the entries in the F1 menu to load and execute just about any program you might wish (and have memory for). If you limit the F1 entries to simple script invocations, you may also use the script name through F2. For example, you might wish to replace COM-AND's ZMODEM or batch YMODEM. You might do this with Chuck Forsberg's DSZ.COM program. DSZ is a module used within other comm programs to perform ZMODEM transfers (and X/Ymodem transfers too). DSZ is revised quite often (to expand its function), and is available on most systems. For downloading purposes, no script is needed to invoke DSZ. How- ever, as mentioned above, the F1 entry may be coded to use a script. This permits the same script to be manually invoked through F2, too. The file name used for the downloaded file is determined by the sender. Revise an F1 entry (with the 'r' subcommand) as follows: Name: Download using YMODEM Subdirectory: (whatever subdirectory your DSZ occupies) Program: (leave this field blank) Script: DSZDOWN.CMD The script DSZDOWN.CMD might be written: ------------------------------------------------------------------ COMPARMS S1 ; read current settings S2 = "DSZ.COM port " * S1(14:14) * " rb " ; Ask for YMODEM rcv RUN S2 ; Load and run DSZ ------------------------------------------------------------------ Note: change " rb " to " rz " for ZMODEM ------------------------------------------------------------------ DSZ requires a file name for uploading. You accomplish this by editing the F1 menu as follows, and creating a script. Name: Upload using YMODEM Subdirectory: (whatever subdirectory DSZ/DSZUP occupies) Program: (leave this field blank) Script: DSZUP.CMD An example script DSZUP.CMD follows on the next page. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 86 G. External protocol drivers (continued) The script DSZUP.CMD might be written: ------------------------------------------------------------------ MESSAGE "^MEnter the upload file name: " GET S0 ; Read keyboard COMPARMS S1 ; read current settings S2 = "DSZ.COM port " * S1(14:14) * " sb " * S0 ; ask for YMODEM sb" RUN S2 ; Load and run DSZ ------------------------------------------------------------------ Note: change " sb " to " sz " for ZMODEM ------------------------------------------------------------------ DSZ defaults to COM1 and the current COM1 rate. The above scripts adjust for the comm port you're using. The above scripts (or better) are included in the scripts archive file released with COM-AND. NOTE: DSZ is user supported. If you use it, please register it! DSZ may be found on most bulletin boards, and on every major system. Registration information is provided with every release of DSZ. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 87 H. Modem Configuration COM-AND default values do not require a modem pre-configuration (although you may set it up that way). However, certain features cannot be used unless you configure your modem before you use COM-AND. 1. DTR (Data Terminal Ready) COM-AND, by default, hangs up using the command sequences defined through the Alt-S setup (hangup and modem escape). However, you may alternately select 'Drop DTR to hangup' through the Alt-O options. Dropping DTR is the only way to hangup certain modems, and is generally much faster than the command sequences. Most Hayes compatible modems allow configuration of the DTR sense through a switch-block. If you wish to use DTR to hangup, be sure your modem follows the DTR signal. Refer to the documentation provided with your modem to ensure that option switches are set appropriately. 2. CD (Carrier Detect) COM-AND (presently) uses the CD sense line for several purposes. The 'CONNECTED' test supported in the script language, test for carrier detect upon exit, and the file transfer protocols all require the modem report carrier detect. True carrier detect is the only way to determine if you are 'on-line' or 'off-line'. Many Hayes compatible modems are sold with a carrier detect override (in other words the modem reports carrier detect all the time). When carrier detect is overridden, COM-AND cannot detect when carrier is lost during a file transfer or whether to ask if you want to hangup when you exit to DOS. Be sure the modem is reporting true CD (instead of it just saying 'yes'). Most Hayes compatible modems allow configuration of the CD sense through a switch-block. Refer to the documentation provided with your modem to ensure that option switches are set appropriately. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 88 I. Environment variables COM-AND uses environment variables to default files names. Two environment variables are relevant to COM-AND. The "COM-AND=' environment variable specifies a default path for certain file names, and "COMSPEC=" specifies the shell program name. 1. COM-AND= COM-AND searches the current subdirectory and then the subdirec- tory indicated by the environment variable "COM-AND=" (if present) for the following files: . COM-AND.DFT (Default settings and values) . COM-AND.DIR (Dialing directory) . COM-AND.MAC (Macro definitions) . COM-AND.ACC (Accessory definitions) . COM-AND.RMP (Remap definition) . COM-AND.XLT (Translate tables) COM-AND also uses this environment variable searching for script file names. However, script files are also searched using (a) the supplied extension, (b) the extension ".CMD" and (c) the extension ".ENF" (for encrypted files). So, the search for script files is a little bit longer than the search for the above files. COM-AND accessories use the "COM-AND=" environment variable to find COM-AND.EXE when they are loaded without COM-AND. For this reason we recommended COM-AND.EXE be in that subdirectory. Refer to your DOS manual (the SET command) for information about environment variables and how to create them. As an example, you might place COM-AND in the C:\COM-AND subdirectory. You should then add the following line to your c:\AUTOEXEC.BAT file: SET COM-AND=C:\COM-AND Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 89 I. Environment variables (continued) 2. COMSPEC= COM-AND uses the environment variable "COMSPEC=" to identify the shell program to use when Alt-F10'ing or executing the SHELL script command. This environment variable is already set in most installations. 3. Other variables COM-AND's script language allows access to environment variables through the ENVIRON statement. Scripts written for COM-AND may therefore be sensitive to environment variables. The script statement "EBL" and EBLSET" look for a 'BATINT=' environment variable to set the (hex) interrupt number for EBL. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 90 J. Background operation COM-AND may be used as a background process with several of the available multi-tasking operating environments. In particular, file transfers are buffered, and send is interrupt driven to provide maximum efficiency when used as a background processor (which of course means more efficiency in foreground mode, too). COM-AND has been made 'shadow-buffer' aware... if an operating environment such as DesqView or Windows establishes a shadow-buffer for the screen, COM-AND uses it. Thus, you do not need to flag COM- AND as "writing directly to the screen" under such environments. The only exception to this is RLE displays in interactive mode (RLE displays are inhibited during the script processor). RLE displays switch the screen from text to graphics modes; during RLE display all access to the screen is performed using BIOS write-pixel calls However, you should turn RLE displays off (through Alt-O) if you plan on using COM-AND regularly in background mode, and view RLEs. The distribution of COM-AND includes a PIF and ICO (icon) file for Windows and a DVP file for DesqView. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 91 K. Encoded music Beginning with version 2.3, COM-AND uses encoded music strings for several different purposes: . If the file COM-AND.TUN exists on the default drive:subdirectory (or on the COM-AND= drive:subdirectory), and it contains a valid encoded music string (up to 40 notes), COM-AND uses the encoded string for its alarm. . The alarm tune may be changed with a "SET TUNE" command through a script file. The new alarm tune holds until it is changed, or until COM-AND is terminated. . A script may PLAY an encoded music string during its execution (up to 80 notes). . An escape sequence to play music has been implemented (for some RBBS boards). The escape sequence is "ESC [M <music string> ^N" allowing up to 255 characters for the <music string>. The script ALARM.CMD is included with this release. ALARM contains a number of simple melodies to substitute for the default alarm tune. The ALARM script allows you to sample the tunes, and one may be selected permanently (if it doesn't hurt the ear...). Permanent selection means the script creates a file, COM-AND.TUN which is then used by COM-AND every time it is loaded. Syntax for music statements may be found in an appendix to the CASCRIPT.DOC document. The interested reader is referred there. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 92 L. BIOS Comm Read/Write Beginning with version 2.3 of COM-AND, BIOS read/write comm port calls are intercepted by COM-AND. When the port number matches the comm port currently opened by COM-AND, COM-AND makes available its interrupt driven read/write procedures. Only read/write are supported. Open calls (change parameters) and status calls are stubbed. COM-AND's interception of BIOS comm port calls opens some doors for the wary. For example, the following script is useful: KFLUSH ; Clear the keyboard buffer STACK "CTTY COM2:!" ; Stack a cmd for DOS SHELL ; Shell-to-DOS After the shell-to-DOS, DOS functions are available through the comm port. If COM-AND had previously established a connection through the modem (dialed another PC, or used the CONNECT script to answer the phone), then DOS would be available to the caller! [Note: only very well-behaved programs may be used through this link. A program writing to screen memory or intercepting keyboard interrupts IS NOT available, and IS difficult to terminate remotely.] Programs written for no more communications support than that pro- vided by BIOS may use COM-AND's communications, and act as acces- sories. Such programs, when loaded through the accessory menu (or DOS Gateway) take advantage of COM-AND's communication support (and XON/XOFF flow control). The author would be interested in hearing of any applications developed to use this feature, and would be interested in discussing its future refinement. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 93 M. Modem initialization COMMON MODEM PARAMETER INITIALIZATION VALUES for USE WITH COM-AND and OTHER COMMON COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAMS, by Jim Aspinwall ----------------------------------------------------------------- As a user of computer modems and communications software, you should be aware of several matters affecting your modem, your software, and successful on-line operation. It seems most common problems we have encountered have to do with how or if the modem reports back on the status of the Carrier Detect (DCD or CD) signal. CD reports whether or not you are on-line; in other words, connected. Another problem frequently encountered is how the modem responds to the Data Terminal Ready (DTR) signal from the terminal or PC. In many cases the modems we use have default or factory configura- tions that cause DCD to indicate that you are on-line at all times, even if there has been no connection made; and the modem acts like the terminal or software is active all of the time. This setting does not always prohibit proper communications, but it does make some operations inefficient, or causes inaccurate error messages. Setting these and other parameters to the values we have shown below, or equivalent values specific to your modem, have resulted in successful on-line operations for a great many users. You must also correlate some of the modem values to corresponding values in your communications software. One value of particular note is the modem's S7 register. The value in this register sets how long the modem waits for a carrier after dialing a call. Most modems use 40 seconds as a default. It is likely your communica- tions software also provides a Wait-For-Carrier parameter for its operation. If these two values are different, you may get unexpected results in originating calls. Either the modem hangs-up before the call is established while the software is still waiting, or the software aborts the call origination before enough time has elapsed. Setting the parameter at the modem S7 register does not set the value in your software, and setting the value in the software does not reset it for the modem. There are a few other parameters exhibiting this difference, so you should read the modem and software documentation carefully. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 94 M. Modem initialization (continued) As annoying as it may seem to issue YET ANOTHER reminder about docu- mentation, it IS very helpful to read through it all, even if you think you do not understand or need it all, at first. Once you are familiar with 'what' information is 'where', you are more able to recognize problems and their solutions as they arise. Many veteran users are pleasantly surprised Product R&D Corp.: (per Charlie) ----------------- AT&C1S7=60S11=40V1X1 MICROCOM 9624c: (per Mike, modified 891103) -------------- Modem Init: ATE1\C1\G0\J1\K5\N3\Q0&T5\V1V1\X1S0=0^M Dial Command: AT\N3DT Alt-P: 9600,N,8,1,COM1 Alt-O: Keyboard=ON Drop DTR=ON Alt-S: Break Delay=250 ms Alarm Duration=3 sec Everex 2400 internal (older style?): (per Jim) ----------------------------------- Switches 1 and 2; as appropriate for COM 1,2,3 or 4 Switches 3,4,5; OFF (default) String = AT&D2S7=60^M (the &D2 sets proper DTR, can also be done with S21=48 or S21=112 (default=96)) Leading Edge 2400B half-size internal: (per Jim) ------------------------------------- Switches 1 and 2; COM 1,2,3,4 selection Switches 3,4,5,6; OFF (default) String = ATS7=60X3^M (there are no &... settings and no S21, DCD and DTR are set by switches) Practical Peripherals 2400 half-size internal: (per Jim) --------------------------------------------- Switch on rear selects COM 1 or 2 String = AT&C1&D2L0X3^M (S21=117 is another way of doing &C1&D2) Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 95 M. Modem initialization (continued) Everex, Evercom 24+ (MNP): (per Mike) ------------------------- Modem INIT string: AT\N3\Q1\K5\V1\X1\C1^M Dialing Prefix: AT\N3DT (\N3 forces the modem to MNP) Break Delay: 250 ms Drop DTR on Hangup: ON Ven-Tel Pathfinder 18k: (per Jim) ---------------------- Init String: ATS0=0S7=60S51=5S52=1S53=1S58=2S66=1S95=2&W^M AutoAnswer Off/Wait 60secs for carrier/Serial Port at 19,200 DTR active/DCD active/Hardware handshake/Lock Serial Port/Auto MNP With these settings set into the modem and written (&W) once the user can recall them (INIT) using AT&E^M, instead of the entire string. It is handy to place this string in a comm. program macro for later use, should the modem get reset to factory values or other events change the desired settings. FACTORY Jim's Function and Notes DEFAULT Usage about settings ------- ----- ------------------ S0=1 S0=0 This depends on ORIG/ANSWER side S7=40 S7=60 Longer for some calls/systems... S45=0 S45=0 Keep disabled (0) for secure/support operations S50=0 S50=0 Auto-speed (starts high, allows other uses) S51=4 S51=5 19,200 VS. 9600 SERIAL LINE S52=0 S52=1 DTR must be active... S53=0 S53=1 DCD must be active... S58=3 S58=2 Hardware handshake is faster S61=45 S61=0-255 Speaker volume, =<45 is best. S66=0 S66=1 Lock serial speed, flow control S95=0 S95=2 Auto-reliable MNP mode S110=255 S110=255 Compression depends on other side S110=1 To control remote's compression ON S111=255 S111=255 Protocol depends on other side S111=10 KERMIT 8,n,1 S111=20 XMODEM S111=30 UUCP Note : Only these settings need to be changed and re-written to the EEPROM (with &W) vs. factory defaults. ATZ recalls all parameters to Factory defaults. AT&E recalls EEPROM values. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 96 N. COM-AND's Backscreen Beginning with COM-AND 2.8, the backscreen function performs its task as customers have asked. This was a major modification to COM-AND's backscreen function, and has several ramifications: o Previously released accessories no longer perform backscreen functions with COM-AND 2.8. [New versions of popular acces- sories will be released, supporting the new function.] o The backscreen-to-transcript function now does not save the exact text received... rather it saves the formatted screen lines to the transcript. If a display emulation is used, not necessarily all the received text is written to the transcript. The backscreen no longer captures cursor positioning commands received. Should it be necessary to capture exactly what was sent, ASCII receive (though limiting) is the only way to do it. The new backscreen is faster than before. Considerably. The author hopes it meets the approval of those who requested it. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 97 O. Customizing COM-AND Several methods are immediately available to customize COM-AND for particular purposes. Some script authorship is required, but the result a communications program tailored to an exact application. Beyond customization of the existing COM-AND product, other custom- izations are possible and negotiable. 1) COM-AND initialization When COM-AND is loaded, it performs an initialization process (opening the comm port, sending an init string, opening files, and so on). After initialization, a shareware advertisement is dis- played (unless turned off in Alt-O). After the advert, if a script named COM-AND.CMD is found in the current default subdirec- tory OR the "COM-AND=" environment variable indicated subdirec- tory, it is executed. A simple COM-AND.CMD script may be created to display an opening screen, set options and values to your preference, and to offer an initial menu. For example, a menu might be offered making func- tion key F1 dial a certain number, function key F3 enter COM-AND proper and function key F5 exit COM-AND back to DOS. 2) COM-AND termination When COM-AND is terminated (either by Alt-X or through the script statement "BYE"), COM-AND tests for carrier (may be turned off by Alt-O or "SET CDRESPECT OFF"). If carrier is found (if tested), a prompt for hangup is issued. After the carrier test, COM-AND tests to determine if an "exit script" has been defined. If an exit script has been named, COM-AND attempts to execute it. Exit scripts are defined through the script statement "SET EXIT". If the indicated file does not exist, COM-AND terminates. If the indicated file exists, COM-AND executes it as a script. Upon Alt-X then, COM-AND may be customized to provide a menu of choices (e.g. dial another system, and a list of systems). When established, the exit script determines if COM-AND is actually to terminate, or to continue. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 98 O. Customizing COM-AND (continued) 3) DOS after COM-AND An interesting feature of COM-AND's script language is the statement "STACK". STACK places a string into the BIOS keyboard buffer. An exit script might offer a menu of selections to invoke other programs through DOS. For example, the script: SET TTHRU OFF ; Turn off script typethrough STACK "DIR *.*!" ; Set-up to execute a DOS DIR cmd BYE ; Terminate com-and and do a DIR terminates COM-AND (without hanging up... be careful), and executes a DIR *.* through DOS. More interesting things might be found, I'm sure, to do with DOS.... but the point is made. The DOORWAY script included with COM-AND actually creates a BAT file, STACKs the BAT file invocation, and terminates COM-AND as above. The BAT file takes over, and loads DOORWAY. When DOORWAY ends, the BAT file reloads COM-AND! Throughout the COM-AND -> BATfile -> DOORWAY -> COM-AND sequence, carrier is unchanged. 4) Keyboard remapping COM-AND maps the Alt'd and function keys on the PC keyboard in a manner consistent with (the author's experience of) common usage. Other maps for the PC keyboard may well be imagined. The keyboard remap function (available through the REMAP.CMD script) allows you to determine key usage yourself. As the simplest example, COM-AND's F10 help window might be con- sidered inadequate (the author thinks it is...). To change this sad state of affairs, the following remap might be created: F10 = 255 "HELP" CR This remap says in effect: When the F10 key is pressed, COM-AND sees the character with value 255, the characters "H" "E" "L" and "P", and a CR. 255 as a character is documented above under Alt-M (Macros). The character 255 in COM-AND has the same function as F2 (run a script), but does not pop up a window. "HELP" would be interpreted by the 255 function as a script name (either HELP., HELP.CMD or HELP.ENF on the default or COM-AND= subdirectory). The CR causes the 255 function to execute the script named HELP. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 99 O. Customizing COM-AND (continued) 4) Keyboard remapping (continued) So... you might write your own help window (see the help screens in FILEMGR or LEARN), call it HELP.CMD, put it in the COM-AND= subdirectory, and never see this author's idea of a HELP summary again. It might be paginated, indexed, what-have-you. 5) Functional customization The author of COM-AND will happily customize a version of COM-AND for anyone licensing 30 or more copies of COM-AND (site license). This customization is limited to: . Alt-I Information screen: 10 lines of the program informa- tion screen are devoted to a description of COM-AND and its accessories in the 'standard' edition. CABER Software will encode any information a licensee (meeting the quantity restriction) requests in this space. CABER Software retains the last lines of the window for itself. . Copyright statement upon termination: CABER software will change the program termination notice from: "Freely redistributable; R. Scott McGinnis <date>" to "Licensed from CABER Software (all rights reserved), <date>, by: <licensee name>" . Customization is limited to the current version of COM-AND. The same customization, applied to later releases of COM-AND may be had from CABER Software upon request, for a fee of $15.00 each release. CABER Software does not automatically issue updated customized versions. Other functional customizations are negotiable. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 100 P. BIOS (INT 14h) communications With version 2.7, COM-AND may be directed to invoke BIOS services for communications. Communications programs, per se, exist in large part BECAUSE of the BIOS comm service routines... what BIOS provided in the early days of the PC was generally useless; to perform communica- tions work, one wrote one's own. However, at this date, it is becoming common for LAN modem servers and special purpose communications gear to 'take over' the BIOS ser- vice routines, and replace them with special code. COM-AND now pro- vides the capability to override its own communications driver (in- ternal) and be directed to use the BIOS service routines instead. Due to the nature of the original BIOS service call definitions, certain COM-AND functions are disabled or ignored when COM-AND is directed to invoke BIOS for communications. . When COM-AND is run /p, the Alt-P value (script COMPARM) shown for the 'current setting' only reflects the default set for COM-AND. BIOS doesn't read back settings. . True break is disabled (Ctl-End). The original BIOS has no facility to perform true break. . DROP DTR is ignored even if set. Some versions of BIOS do and some don't allow access to DTR. . RTS Flow control is ignored even if set, for the same reason as DROP DTR is ignored. This modification is not intended for use with BIOS proper, although it can be (at 300 bps). BIOS proper does not provide an interrupt service routine; therefore, the comm port must be 'sampled' to find if a character has been received. At 300 bps, with a fast CPU, BIOS sampling is possible. At 1200 bps, even with a 16Mhz machine, characters are dropped. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 101 P. BIOS (INT 14h) communications (continued) To direct COM-AND to use BIOS communications, run COM-AND: "d>" COM-AND BIOS <other switches and parameters> COM-AND's BIOS redirection is only partially dependant on the current port set in COM-AND. When BIOS redirection is used, COM-AND places the base address for the current port (declared through Alt-P) in the appropriate BIOS parameter area (it restores the previous value when COM-AND exits). This overrides default BIOS base addresses, if the INT 14h service routine uses the BIOS parameter area. However, when COM-AND invokes service through the BIOS INT 14h, it does not pass a base address; a port number (0,1,2,3 representing COM1 through COM4) is passed. The port number passed is the port for the currently selected COM port (e.g. 0 for COM1, 1 for COM2) unless a port number override is specified in COM-AND's run command. To override the port number passed to the INT 14h service routine (i.e. pass a number larger than 3), run COM-AND thusly: "d>" COM-AND BIOS(5) <other switches and parameters> The port number following the BIOS keyword is then passed to INT 14h on all calls. The port number MUST be encased in parentheses. When BIOS redirection is used, COM-AND does NOT replace the INT 14h BIOS service routines with its own driver. COM-AND simply uses the service routines provided. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 102 P. 16550A(N) UARTs A UART is the 40 pin chip in the serial board. UART means Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter. The UART chip converts an 8 bit byte from parallel to serial, sending, and from serial to parallel, receiving. This is the electronic base for serial communications. The original UART used in PCs was the 8250. This was (relatively) slow, but adequate for the 4.77 Mhz bus speed of the PC and XT. With the 8 Mhz bus speed of the AT, a faster chip was needed. The 16450 was used. The 8250 and 16450 chips are functionally identical, and are pin compatible. However, many AT computers STILL come with an 8250 UART on their serial port. To gain maximum efficiency from certain modems, the serial port is set fixed to 19,200 bps. Most bare PCs are able to keep up with that speed. However, expansion boards such as (some) disk control- lers, and (some) Network Interface Cards tie up the machine for (relatively) long intervals of time. When interrupts are suppressed for more than one character time (1/1920th of a second at 19,200 bps) a character coming in through the serial port is lost. [With a 2400 bps modem, there is 1/240th of a second between characters. [Much more lee-way!] At 19,200 bps, many problems became apparent. For these newer modems a new UART is needed to buffer characters that would otherwise be lost, until the computer is able to read them. National Semiconductor constructed the 16550A UART. With the UART buffering, the computer can be busy doing something else for up to 16 character times, with no characters lost. The 16550A works with any serial port now using an 8250 or 16450. The 16550A is pin-for-pin identical to the 16450/8250. However, no- thing comes for free. Special software is needed to activate the buffer. Unactivated, the 16550A acts as a 16450 without a buffer; simply a fast UART. With version 2.7, COM-AND recognizes the 16550A UART and activates it when a communications port is opened. A script author may even inquire what type of UART is present (through the intrinsic "_UART"). COM-AND resets the 16550A to its previous mode when the port is closed. The use of the 16550A UART provides a noticeable improvement in speed of transfers when a 4.77 Mhz CPU is used. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 103 R. High-Speed Communication As described above (Appendix J, Background Operation), COM-AND imple- ments interrupt driven sends to maximize speed of file transfers (when COM-AND is sending). This is particularly useful when COM-AND is used in the background DesqView or Windows 3.0. However, this method has drawbacks, too. Particularly with the 8250 UART (see above, Appendix Q, 16550A(N) UARTs), the maximum send rate can overrun the receiver, especially at high speeds. If you use COM-AND at 115k bps (or 57.6k bps sometimes) it is recom- mended interrupt driven sends be turned OFF. TO do so, set SLOW TRANSFER ON in Alt-O (Options). [The script command is SET SLOW ON.] Setting SLOW ON does not drastically reduce the speed with which sends are performed. At most, under DOS, a few percent decrease in efficiency may be noticed while uploading (none during downloads). Under multi-tasking environments, a considerably larger decrease in efficiency may be noted when COM-AND is uploading in the background. 16550A(N) UARTs may also be used to improve the transfer speed. Experimentation with a 16550A and your PC(s) is the only way to determine if COM-AND performs reliable transfers at 115k bps, given your PC's speed and the UARTS you use with SLOW OFF. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 104 S. Doorways A number of 'doorway' utilities are available for the intrepid PC communicator. With a doorway utility running on a PC, and a connec- tion to another PC through a comm port established, the display of the host PC (the one running the doorway) is ALSO displayed on the remote PC (the one connected), and keyentry from the remote PC is accepted by the host PC as if entered on the local keyboard. Literally, two people can work together in one program, document, spreadsheet, or what-have-you. Albeit most 'doorway' type utilities are limited to text-only mode, this is not an overly severe limita- tion at this time. [Don't try to doorway Windows, or graphics!] COM-AND, of course, provides a vehicle for connecting two PCs through a modem. The CONNECT script, supplied in the scripts archive of this release allows one PC to go into autoanswer, to accept an incoming call. The other side of the connection makes a call to the host PC in the usual manner. Once two PCs are connected through the modem, EITHER PC can then exe- cute the doorway function. The doorway may be loaded ON-TOP of the existing communications program (i.e. through a shell-to-DOS), or if the communications program permits, IN PLACE of the communications program. With version 2.8 of COM-AND, a new script, named DOORWAY, was included. The DOORWAY script unloads COM-AND without breaking an existing connection, loads a doorway utility... and on exit from the doorway utility reloads COM-AND, again without breaking the connection. Used this way, almost all of the memory occupied by COM-AND in execution is freed for use by the doorway and DOS. Ths script DOORWAY requires editing; you must change the first line to invoke the doorway utility you have, and the comm port you use. The script supplied is set for Marshall Dudley's DOORWAY utility. Any similar utility might be invoked in its place. Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 105 S. Doorways The host PC (the one running the doorway) keeps the display of the remote PC (the one NOT running the doorway) up-to-date using control sequences. The remote must be set to the appropriate display emula- tion (in the case of Marshall Dudley's DOORWAY, the ANSI display emulation of Alt-V would be selected by the remote PC). The remote PC must have a means of sending not only simple keystrokes but a means to send function keys (if the remote user wants to have function and Alt'd keys available). The remote PC must therefore distinguish function keystrokes from from simple text in what it sends. For Marshall Dudley's DOORWAY (and all similar utilities), COM-AND supplies a 'mode', tied to the Alt-Minus key. In 'Remote' mode, function (and Alt'd) keystrokes do NOT pop-up COM-AND windows; they are instead sent to the host doorway utility. The remote PC user toggles 'Remote mode' with the Alt-Minus key. This means that Alt-Minus itself is recognized by COM-AND in EITHER mode... and therefore Alt-Minus cannot be sent to the host. A simple macro, or script may be used to send that one keystroke to the host. COM-AND converts mouse motion (and mouse-keyclicks) on the remote PC to cursor keys (keyclicks to PgUp, PgDn, ESC and CR) as discussed in Chapter V above, Menu mode. Therefore, if the program running on the host accepts cursor keys and PgUp/PgDn, even the mouse on the remote PC is useful! To summarize, the host PC must (minimally): . make connection with the remote by calling or answering a call . load the doorway utility (plus whatever program the doorway executes; the supplied DOORWAY script invokes the DOS prompt) . exit the doorway utility (the remote user may initiate the exit too, in many cases) . disconnect the call Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 106 S. Doorways The remote PC's operation is a bit more complex. It must: . make connection with the host by calling or answering a call . select appropriate display emulation (ANSI is usual) with Alt-V . select other options according to the host's software: .. Display control chars (Alt-O) should probably be ON (control characters are commonly used as displayed characters) .. XON/XOFF software flow control (Alt-O) should probably be OFF (XON/XOFF are control characters commonly used in displays) .. The status line should probably be turned OFF (in Alt-V) (depending on the doorway and the application) .. Line wrap should probably be turned OFF (in Alt-V) (depending on the doorway and the application) .. Menu mode should probably be turned OFF (with Alt =). [Menu selection is performed with cursor keys. In 'Remote' mode, these are sent to the host.] . select 'remote' mode with Alt-Minus to send function keys to host . return to usual after the doorway session by toggling Alt-Minus again (to exit COM-AND, one presses Alt-X; in 'Remote mode', the Alt-X is simply sent to the host; turn OFF 'Remote mode' to exit!) . disconnect from the call Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices COM-AND: IBM PC Communications and Accessories Page 107 T. Command Index Key Meaning Page --------- --------------------------------------------- ----- F1 Switch between CRT and Accessory. 12,8-9 F2 Perform a script 15,68 F3 Set current disk/subdirectory 15,59 F4 Set default download disk/subdirectory 15,54 F5 ASCII upload. 15,51 F6 ASCII download. 15,53 F7 Toggle logging (transcripting). 15,58 F8 Toggle display of typed characters. 15,59 F9 Toggle Log hold. 15,58 F10 Help screen. 12 Alt-F10 DOS Gateway. 12,63 Alt-A Toggle chat mode (on CRT screen) 17,59 Alt-B Redisplay (backscreen). 17,59 Alt-C Clear the screen. 12,60 Alt-D Dialing directory. 12,19-22 Alt-E Toggle echo (full/half duplex). 12,60 Alt-F File directory. 12,54 Alt-G Toggle blank line suppression 12,60 Alt-H Hangup. 12,23 Alt-I Program information. 13 Alt-J Set screen colors 17,43 Alt-K Set KERMIT parameters 17,60 Alt-L Toggle 25/43(50) line modes 17,60 Alt-M Define a macro for Alt-0 through Alt-9. 13,24 Alt-N Encrypt/Decrypt a file 13,27 Alt-O Set program options. 13,36-43 Alt-P Comm Parameters. 13,34 Alt-Q Edit a file 13,69 Alt-R Redial the last number dialed. 13,22 Alt-S Setup. Define initial program values. 14,30-33 Alt-T Elapsed time. 14,61 Alt-U Annotate call-log 14,58 Alt-V Emulation, Translate, and Remap 64 Alt-W Playback 17,61 Alt-X Exit the program. 14,61 Alt-Y Error information. 75 Alt-Z Toggle parity mask. 14,62 Alt-0/9 Send a Macro. 14,24 Alt-Minus Toggle remote function key usage (Doorways) 17,104 Alt-Equal Toggle menu mode 17,10 PgUp Begin an upload 16,44-54 PgDn Begin a download 16,44-54 Ctl-End Send a Break. 12 Ctl-PrtSc Toggle printer (LP1) 12 Version 2.9: 921203 Appendices