Simtel MSDOS 1992 June/SIMTEL_0692.cdr/msdos/menu/rnr3d.arc/RNR.DOC

Text File | 1988-10-08 | 5.6 KB | 109 lines

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READ & RUN (tm)  Copyright (C) Techserve, inc. 1988

"READ & RUN" ("RNR") provides the capability to read ASCII text files on
screen and to execute program files from a single integrated menu handling
up to 52 files.  Text files may be compressed to save disk space (2 to 1
compression ratio) and are automatically decompressed when loaded for
display or printing.  Licensed versions of RNR provide a menu "locking"
capability and allow users to append their own advertising copy for
distribution by electronic media.  RNR is an ideal tool for software
publishers and DP managers to integrate software and documentation for
novice users.  It additionally is an ideal vehicle for authors and
advertisers to publish their works in the electronic media.

"READ & RUN" is executed by typing the command "RNR" at the DOS ">" prompt,
followed by a list of the program files and text files to be read or run:

 A>rnr myprog1.com myprog2.exe readme1.doc readme2.txt readme.3.cmp

Using the notation "*.*" causes RNR to read the current disk directory
and add all text and program files to the RNR menu, e.g.:

 A>rnr *.*

Executing the "Save" command (Alt+S) saves the file list so that
subsequently one only need type "RNR" when executing the program.  The
"Add" (Alt+A) command permits adding files from the menu.  Prefacing
the file name with "D)" (or other letter) puts the file in the 4th
position.

RNR automatically interprets all files with extensions ".EXE" or ".COM" as
program files which may be executed, and all files with extensions ".DOC"
or ".TXT" as text files which may be read.  ".BAT" type files may also be
run provided a copy of DOS's "COMMAND.COM" is in the directory from
which RNR is being run.  ".CMP" files are compressed text files which
may be produced using the "compress" function on the Utility Menu
(Alt+U command).

When printing documentation files using RNR, you will be prompted for
number of pages.  Since printing will start at the top of the currently
displayed page, this refers to the number of pages from that point.
You are also prompted for printer setup codes.  This allows you to set
printer type size and margin.  Refer to your printer manual for codes
for your printer.  ASCII values for codes may be entered by depressing
the "Alt" key and simultaneously typing in the numeric ASCII value from
the number keypad.  Upon releasing the "Alt" key you will see on screen
the icon or letter representing the ASCII value.

When viewing text files, alternative display modes may be invoked by
toggling "Alt+M".  Depending on your display type (CGA, MCGA, EGA or VGA)
the number of columns and lines displayed will change.  Text which extends
beyond the right edge of the screen may be viewed by toggling "Alt+W" so
"Wrap=On'.  Color may be changed by setting color parameters on the first
line of a text file to produce colored boxes such as follows:

   ┌──────────────────────────────────────────┐
   │                                          │
   │   This is an example of a colored box.   │
   │                                          │
   └──────────────────────────────────────────┘

RNR uses about 70K of memory in addition to memory required by object
programs and their data.  If the object program is very large memory-wise or
your PC does not have much memory you may need to run the program outside of
RNR.   RNR dynamically adjusts its text file read buffer in 16K increments
to hold text files.  Thus text files of up to 512K+ (uncompressed size) may
be read on a PC with 640K memory.

Registered users may install an advertisement in the "Info" section
of RNR and may "Lock" the menu and configurations so that RNR may be
distributed with their own programs and text files.  The registered version
of RNR will also hold up to 52 files on the menu versus 16 files for the
shareware version of RNR.   Unaltered copies of RNR designated "shareware"
may be copied and distributed provided charges are limited to cost of
media and distibution, but no more than $10/copy.  RNR may be Arc'd or
compressed for BBS distribution.

Shareware Support - If you are an RNR shareware user, your registration is
needed to support continue upgrading of RNR and development of other
Techserve, inc. software products.  This is especially critical in the face
of new PC technology (386 PC's, OS/2, VGA displays, laser printers, high
speed modems, scanners, etc) which require substantial capital investment as
well as time to make software which is compatible with and utilizes fully
these technologies.

In addition to registering, we also appreciate any efforts you make to
further spread the word about Techserve software to others, either directly,
or via messages or shareware uploads to BBS's.  Letters noting RNR, PFROI
and CAPTOOL to the editor of your favorite computer or professional
publications and newsletters are also appreciated and very helpful.  Thanks!

Robert N. Hobbs, Pres., Techserve, inc./RNR author

For a registered version of RNR send $19 plus $3 S&H to:

 Techserve, inc., POB 70056, Bellevue, WA 98007 (USA)

or call:  1-800-826-8082  or [phone]  (VISA/Mastercard)

If ordering by mail be sure to enclose name, address, & telephone number.
   ┌──────────────────────────────────────────┐
   │** Please Copy and Share RNR Shareware! **│
   └──────────────────────────────────────────┘