CU Amiga Super CD-ROM 4/CU Amiga Magazine's Super CD-ROM 04 (1996)(EMAP Images)(GB)(Track 1 of 3)[!][issue 1996-11].iso/magazine/psion/faq

Internet Message Format | 1996-09-19 | 186KB

From: [e-mail] (Daniel `HB9VBC' Pfund)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.psion,comp.sys.palmtops,comp.answers,news.answers
Subject: comp.sys.psion FAQ part 1/5
Followup-To: comp.sys.psion
Approved: [e-mail]
Summary: This article is a collection of information on the Psion
         Series 3(a) palmtop computers. It should be read by anyone
         intending to post to the comp.sys.psion newsgroup.

Archive-name: psion-faq/part1
Version: $VER: Psion FAQ v1.4 (May 1996)
Posting-Frequency: monthly
URL: http://www.bris.ac.uk/~lwmdcg/Psion/FAQ/  (FAQ repository)
     http://www.lookup.com/homepages/53994/    (My own homepage)

                               PSION SERIES 3x
                          FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

                         Original author: Chris Wesley
                   Actual author & maintainer: Daniel Pfund

                                May96 - v1.4

Welcome  to  the FAQ for comp.sys.psion.  Find the contents table below.
Questions  and  constructive  comments are welcome.  Send them to me at:
<[e-mail]>.

||| Indicates a change since last version
+++ Indicates an addition since last version

part 1
======
         I. DISCLAIMER
|||        II. CREDITS
       III. COPYRIGHT
        IV. FAQ UPDATES
         V. WHERE CAN I GET THIS FAQ?
        VI. NEWSGROUP NETIQUETTE

      1. INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION
         1.1 What is the Psion Series 3/3a?
         1.2 Which model should I buy?
         1.3 When will the "new" Psion (Series 4) come out?
         1.4 What other machines does Psion make?
         1.5 What other palmtop alternatives are there?
|||         1.6 Where can I purchase a Psion?
         1.7 How can I contact Psion?

part 2
======
      2. HARDWARE
         2.1 Hardware specifications
         2.2 What batteries does the Psion use?
         2.3 How long do the batteries last?
         2.4 How does the Psion measure the battery usage?
         2.5 Where can I find the backup battery?
         2.6 How can I make my batteries last longer?
         2.7 Can I use an external power supply?
         2.8 Can I upgrade my Solid State Disk (SSD)?
         2.9 Can I upgrade my internal RAM?
         2.10 Can I change the keyboard?
         2.11 Can I use a big (normal) keyboard?
         2.12 How can I build a serial link?
         2.13 How can I build a parallel link?
         2.14 What is this "soap on a rope" thing?
         2.15 How do I print with my Psion?
         2.16 Can I take my Psion through an X-Ray machine?
         2.17 Can my Psion wipe out magnetic data?

      3. SOFTWARE
         3.1 How do I reset my Psion?
         3.2 What is killing a process?
         3.3 How can I save what's on the screen?
         3.4 What is the soak test?
         3.5 How can I find a text in my memos with Agenda?
         3.6 How can I make the cursor bigger?
         3.7 How can I take out the "hum" when I record sounds?
         3.8 How safe is password protection?
         3.9 How can I change the icon of a program?
         3.10 How can I permanently change the distance units in World?
         3.11 Why do some programs crash with an "Invalid arguments"
              error?
         3.12 Why  is  my  Psion  not switching itself off automatically
              anymore?
+++         3.13 How can I change the fonts in the system applications?
+++         3.14 Is Perl ported to the Psion?

      4. TIPS & TRICKS FOR GENERAL USE
         4.1 Known hardware problems & solutions
         4.2 Known software problems & solutions
part 3
======
         4.3 Other official Psion repair centers
         4.4 User groups
         4.5 Online services
|||         4.6 Bulletin boards (BBSes)
         4.7 Magazines
+++         4.8 "Anti-thief" tips

      5. SHAREWARE AND FREEWARE
         5.1 Relevant FTP sites
         5.2 How can I upload my software to IC?
         5.3 I've uploaded my software to IC, but it still doesn't
             appear, why?
         5.4 How can I upload my software to Frontiernet?
         5.5 WWW internet sites
|||         5.6 Shareware for those without online access

      6. CONNECTING YOUR PSION
|||         6.1 With an IBM or clone
         6.2 With an Amiga
|||         6.3 With a UNIX machine
|||         6.4 With a Macintosh
         6.5 With an Atari
part 4
======
         6.6 With an Acorn Archimedes or Risc PC
         6.7 With a modem
         6.8 With a packet radio TNC
         6.9 With a cellular phone
         6.10 Terminal emulation
         6.11 TCP/IP stack

      7. THE EMULATOR
         7.1 Limitations & bugs
         7.2 Tips & tricks
         7.3 Changing permanently the keyboard mapping

      8. PROGRAMMING
         8.1 Overview of development possibilities
         8.2 OPL programming directly on the Psion
         8.3 OPL programming from a PC
         8.4 C Development on PC
         8.5 Advanced C Development on a PC
         8.6 Available books
         8.7 How to do various things: tips & tricks

      A. SHAREWARE/FREEWARE AVAILABLE SOFTWARE
         A.1 Applications
         A.2 Games

part 5
======
      B. COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE SOFTWARE, SERVICES & ACCESSORIES
         B.1 Business & Legal
         B.2 Education
|||         B.3 Drawing, Leisure & Guides
         B.4 Navigation
         B.5 Communications & Utilities
         B.6 Diet, Health & Safety
         B.7 Time Management
         B.8 Mapping & Surveying
         B.9 Databases
         B.10 Services
         B.11 Books & Accessories

========================================================================

I. DISCLAIMER

  This  article  is  provided  "as  is"  without  any express or implied
  warranties.   While every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy
  of the information contained in this article, neither the authors, the
  maintainer  or  the contributors will assume responsibility for errors
  or omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of the information
  contained  herein.   This document is compiled in spare time for free,
  and I cannot resource thorough checking of all its contents.  However,
  I  am  interested  in  making  the  FAQ  as good as it can be, so your
  constructive feedback is welcome.

  This  FAQ  is  not sponsored or endorsed by Psion PLC or any subsidary
  companies they may own in any way.

  This FAQ is  *NOT*  intended  as a replacement of the User Guide which
  comes  with  each  Psion.   Be  sure  to  read  that  first and - most
  important  - please double read the manual and this FAQ before posting
  any questions to comp.sys.psion!

II. CREDITS

  To  create  this document Chris (the original FAQ author) reviewed the
  Newsgroup  activity  at  comp.sys.psion over some months, used that to
  generate a list of Frequently Asked Questions, used THAT to generate a
  FAQ  structure,  then populated it with extracted wisdom from the news
  traffic.   So  a  lot of information here is provided by the newsgroup
  contributors,  who  are  too  numerous to credit individually.  (Chris
  said  "I'm  just  the  clerk  that  put it all in one place.") Special
  thanks  go  to  Markus Illenseer, who owned the first (Series 3) FAQ -
  from  which  Chris  also  extracted  useful  information.   Chris also
  thanked  Clive  D.W.   Feather,  Daniel  Senie, Roger Burton-West, for
  extensive  helpful  comments  on his preliminary FAQ.  I would like to
  thank  Mark  Gould  and  Jason  Savage  for  their  precious  help and
  comments.   Other  contributors  are  credited  in  the  sections they
  provided special help in compiling.

  If you have a question which is not answered in the actual FAQ, please
  Email  it  to  me  (Daniel Pfund, see address at the top of this FAQ),
  otherwise  if  you  want more information from one specific section of
  this FAQ, please try to contact the author of that section first.  All
  the  Email  addresses  of people mentioned in this FAQ are listed here
  for convenience (in alphabetical order):

        Andrew Baldwin          <[e-mail]>
        Daron M. Brewood        <[e-mail]>
        Roger Burton-West       <[e-mail]>
        Steve Clack             <[e-mail]>
        Nick Craig-Wood         <[e-mail]>
        Alban Debeaupuis        <[e-mail]>
        Mike Dolan              <[e-mail]>
        Tom Dolbilin            <[e-mail]>
        Paul DuBois             <[e-mail]>
        Clive D.W. Feather      <[e-mail]>
        Mark Gould              <[e-mail]>
        Roman Habrat            <[e-mail]>
        Jochen Hollmann         <[e-mail]>
        Markus Illenseer        <[e-mail]>
        Erik Johansen           <[e-mail]>
        Uwe Kallmeyer           <[e-mail]>
        Edwin Klement           <[e-mail]>
        Dan Ko                  <[e-mail]>
        Philippe Lebreton       <[e-mail]>
        Steve Litchfield        >[e-mail]>
        Neil Masson             <[e-mail]>
        Roger Muggleton         <[e-mail]>
        Daniel Pfund            <[e-mail]>
        Angus Rae               <[e-mail]>
        Dan Ramage              <[e-mail]>
        Alan Roberts            <[e-mail]>
        Konstantin I. Saliy     <[e-mail]>
        Jason Savage            <[e-mail]>
        Daniel Senie            <[e-mail]>
        Bruce Stephens          <[e-mail]>
        Toby Smith              <[e-mail]>
        Oliver Wagner           <[e-mail]>
        Lloyd Wasser            <[e-mail]>
        John A. Watson          <[e-mail]>
        Chris Wesley            <[e-mail]>
        Walter Wright           <[e-mail]>

  If  you  happen to change addresses or know the new address of someone
  on this list, please Email it to me, thanks!

III. COPYRIGHT

  I assert copyright on this document.  I encourage you to distribute it
  widely,  but  only in its complete and original form and if you do not
  make any money out of it.

IV. FAQ UPDATES

  For  the time being, I (Daniel) am the keeper of the FAQ.  If you have
  comments or suggestions, corrections, or you have some information you
  want  to  see  added or a request that I find some new answers, please
  let  me  know.   Please contact me via the Email address at the top of
  the  FAQ,  or  if that address doesn't work anymore (will stop working
  after  11th October 1996), then contact me at:  <[e-mail]>
  which  (should)  work  all  the  time  by  forwarding me my mail to my
  current  account.   If  all  else fails, do a web search on my name or
  check out my current homepage for more info at:
  http://www.lookup.com/homepages/53994/

V. WHERE CAN I GET THIS FAQ?

  You're  reading  it  aren't you?  SAVE it :-).  This article is posted
  monthly  to  comp.sys.psion  and  cross-posted  to  comp.sys.palmtops,
  comp.answers,  and news.answers.  It is therefore archived at any site
  that archives news.answers.  News.answers is archived on rtfm.mit.edu,
  and this article is available there via anonymous ftp in the directory
  /usenet/news.answers/psion-faq/partX  If you do not have anonymous ftp
  but  only  Email,  you can use the mailserver at rtfm:  send a message
  containing the lines "send usenet/news.answers/psion-faq/*" to receive
  all  parts  or  send  a  message  containing  "help"  and  "index"  to
  <[e-mail]>  for  more  information  on  how  to obtain
  seperate parts.

  Other  news.answers/FAQ archives are:  cnam.cnam.fr (163.173.128.6) in
  the  anonymous ftp directory /pub/FAQ; ftp.uu.net (192.48.96.2) in the
  anonymous  ftp  directory  /pub/usenet (also available via mail server
  requests to <[e-mail]>, or via uunet's 1-900 anonymous UUCP
  phone  number); and ftp.cs.ruu.nl (131.211.80.17) in the anonymous ftp
  directory  NEWS.ANSWERS  (also  accessible via mail server requests to
  <[e-mail]>).

  There  is  also  a  WWW  site  archiving all the news.answers FAQs at:
  http://www.switch.ch/cgi-bin/faq/fillform  ,  but  note  that they are
  only  archived  in  ASCII format.  Many of specific Psion FTP archives
  mentioned in this FAQ also maintain current versions of this document.

  There  is a HTMLized version of this FAQ held on Mark Gould's site at:
  http://www.bris.ac.uk/%7Elwmdcg/Psion/FAQ/        Mark's   site   also
  contains  links  to  other  sites which carry the HTMLized version and
  which  may be closer to you.  Use this site for any references in your
  own web pages.

  Please  do  NOT Email me or anybody else mentioned in this FAQ for the
  latest version.  We simply cannot handle such matters effectively.

VI.  NEWSGROUP NETIQUETTE

  I  thought  it  might be useful to include a few words about using the
  comp.sys.psion  newsgroup.   We get a steady trickle of transgressions
  and  the  ensuing  admonishments.   Maybe we can fix these before they
  happen  in future.  Egg-sucking grannies may skip this section.  (Does
  that work outside the UK?)

  0)READ  THE FRIENDLY MANUAL (RTFM) and then the FAQ before posting any
    questions!  Remember that the group is here to help you out but only
    if  the  answer can't be found by yourself.  Also remember that each
    time  you're  posting  a  question  to  the  group, hundreds (if not
    thousands) of people will read your question.  If the same questions
    come  up  again and again, people will just get bored and not answer
    anymore...

  a)DON'T BE RUDE.  Obvious?  Apparently not.  Our newsgroup is an oasis
    of  civilization  in  a  sea of adolescent vitriol and worse.  Let's
    keep  it  that  way.   Say it nicely or don't say it at all.  If you
    need to be uncomfortably direct, do it in personal mail - don't post
    it.

  b)When  responding  to a post, most handlers will give you an edit pad
    with  the original post inserted.  Delete most of this, leaving only
    the  part  which  will set the context for your reply.  This is more
    effective  communication,  it cuts down on crud to scan through, and
    reduces phone bills for those that pay them.

  c)Official NETIQUETTE says you should not use the net for advertising,
    but the prevalent view here is that the current level of activity is
    useful without being obtrusive.

  d)Posting   binaries   is   definitively   not   recommended   on  the
    comp.sys.psion  usenet  group!   There  is a seperate Psion binaries
    group  called  comp.binaries.psion  which is a moderated group.  The
    moderator  is  Erik  Johansen.   If  you wish to post to this group,
    either Email your binary directly to the news group's Email address:
    <[e-mail]> and it will arrive to the moderator or if
    your  news  program is configured correctly, post it directly to the
    group.   You  will  receive a message in return usually in a laps of
    2-3  days  maximum  to confirm your binary.  It has been agreed that
    very  large  programs  which  are not Psion specific (ie:  don't run
    directly  on  the  Psion)  should  NOT  be  posted  there but to the
    relevant computer group.  But you should send a small message to the
    comp.binaries.psion  group  stating  that  you have just posted your
    program.   It  is also common practice to send a description of your
    binary;  it  helps  to  know  if  it's  worth downloading it or not!
    Usually,  this  description  has  the  same  subject  line  but with
    part0(/x) suffix.  All postings to this group have been archived and
    are indexed on the following FTP site:
    <ftp://ftp.it.dtu.dk/pub/psion/index.html>.

  e)Consider  whether  you  should  be  mailing  or  posting.  PING-PONG
    personal  dialogues may - or may not - be of interest to others.  If
    not, please don't post.


1. INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION
===========================
1.1 What is the Psion Series 3/3a?

  I  will  describe  the  more  advanced 3a here.  Refer to the hardware
  section to see what you lose on the Series 3.

  The  Psion  Series 3 and 3a are palmtop computers.  Though packaged as
  personal  organisers,  they  are fully general, programmable, powerful
  computers.  The quality of the built-in applications, coupled with the
  power  saving  hardware make Series 3's excellent personal organisers.
  The   sophisticated  operating  system,  the  hardware,  the  built-in
  programming  language,  and  the options to program in C and assembler
  make them excellent general-purpose computers, with the major benefits
  of compactness and battery endurance.

  Optional link facilities can connect the Series 3 to desktop machines,
  allowing data backup and access to the resources of the larger machine
  from the Series 3.  Modems, fax modems, printers and other peripherals
  may  also  be  connected  via  industry-standard  serial  and parallel
  interfaces.

  The  built-in applications include a database manager, a sophisticated
  word  processor,  time  manager,  world  date/time  and dialling codes
  database,  calculator and spreadsheet.  The latest models (1Mb and 2Mb
  RAM  models)  also  include the spell checker/thesaurus and a patience
  game  (solitaire  card  game).   Many other applications are available
  commercially  and  from  shareware outlets.  More details in  the last
  part of this FAQ.

  The  built-in  OPL programming system provides a structured BASIC-like
  programming  language  with access to all the features of the machine.
  This  includes  the  ability  to  program polished Windows/Icons/Menus
  interfaces like those found in the built-in applications.

  The  sound  interface  can  record  and  playback digital sound.  DTMF
  dialling  tones  can  be  created  which  allow  the Series 3a to dial
  numbers directly through a telephone.

1.2 Which model should I buy?

  This  question  is  really  a  personal  matter.  I would definitively
  suggest  getting  a Series3a (and not 3) because of the greater screen
  resolution.   As for which memory model, this depends entirely of your
  needs  and  what  you  plan on doing with your Psion.  In general, the
  more  memory  the  better (and keep in mind also that the 1/2Mb models
  offer  the  spell checker/thesaurus and solitaire game which you might
  need).   If  you're  reading  this,  you probably have access to Psion
  free/shareware  also.   You  will see that these programs will quickly
  fill  up  your  memory ;-) so I would suggest to get the biggest model
  (2Mb).   If  on  the  other hand, money is tight and you don't plan on
  using  much more than the Agenda and the built-in apps, then I think a
  512k  is  big  enough  for  you.   As  you can see, there is no simple
  solution to this answer!

1.3 When will the "new" Psion (Series 4) come out?

  Good question... next please!

  Joke  apart,  nobody really knows.  So please folks, just stop asking!
  The  best  you  can get is a vague guess that no significant new Psion
  will  come out before 1997.  If you want a great palmtop computer that
  can organize your life on top of it, get a Psion Series 3a now.

  If you want to dream a little, here are some "rumoured features":
  Infrared  comms(  IrDa  compliant),  PCMCIA (most debated!), RISC (ARM
  7100)  32bits,  pen  for navigation (but hopefully still a keyboard!),
  backlight ...

  The reason no one knows is that Psion is quite relunctant to give such
  information simply because they've learned from the past (from Osborne
  computers to be more precise ;-) .

1.4 What other machines does Psion make?

1.4.1 WorkAbout

  This  is  the  latest  Psion  machine.   Very  comparable  to  a Psion
  Series 3a, it is more robust and has an A-Z keyboard for size reasons.
  One  nice  point:   a  back  lit  screen  is present.  Targeted at the
  vertical market, thus not so well known to the general public.

1.4.2 Acorn Pocket Book (by Acorn)

  Re-badged Series 3a, aimed at education-related markets.  Contains all
  the  3a  applications, though named differently, plus a spell checker,
  thesaurus  and  a  graph plotting application in a 2MB ROM (versus 1MB
  for  Series  3a).   Password  protection capability is removed.  Costs
  about 20 GBP more than a 3a.

1.4.3 Series 3

  The  immediate predecessor to the Psion Series 3a is the Series 3.  It
  is  the  same machine in size and concept, but is more limited in many
  respects.   See the hardware comparison table in section 2a for a list
  of differences.

1.4.4 Organiser II series:

  CM - available in 16K only, 16x2 screen, limited software

  XP - available in 16K or 32K, 16x2 screen, limited software (database,
       OPL)

  LZ - available  in  32K or 64K (LZ64), 20x4 screen, introduced notepad
       (basic text processor), dialing codes database, on-screen clock)

1.5 What other palmtop alternatives are there? (by Jason Savage)

  See section 2.1 for the Psion Series 3 and 3a hardware specifications.

  Make: Apple
  Model: Newton MessagePad 120
    Processor
        Model: ARM 610
        Speed: 20 Mhz
        Bit size: 32-bit
    Display
        Type: Monochrome, reflective LCD
        Pixel Screen size: 320 x 240
    Memory
        Size: 1MB RAM (385K user data & 639K system) or
              2MB RAM (1,361K user data & 687K system)
    Expansion slots
        Type: Type II PC-Card (PCMCIA 2.0)
        Number: 1
    Dimensions
        Size (W x D x H): 10.16 x 20.32 x 2.9 cm (4.0" x 8.0" x 1.2")
        Weight: 480 grams (16 ounces)
    Power Requirements
        Batteries: 4 x AA (main) & 1 x CR2032 (backup)
        Battery Life (Approx): Up to 22 hours
        Provision for AC Adaptor: Yes
    Input/Output Ports
        Serial (max speed): Yes, RS-422 8-pin DIN (230,000 bps)
        Parallel: No
        Infrared: Yes, (38,400 bps)
        Other: Optional FAX modem
    Keyboard: Yes, Popup virtual keyboard (QWERTY, Numeric, & Phone pad)
    Included Applications:
        * Newton  Intelligence (Handwriting Recognition, Object Oriented
          Database Programming language and Communications services)
        * Calendar (like Agenda)
        * NewtonMail (email client)
        * To-Do Lists (like Agenda)
        * Rolodex-like Address Book (like Data)
        * Digital Ink ScratchPad
        * Calculator (like Calc)
        * World Time Clock (like World)
        * Dictionary (13,000 words)
        * Notion List Manager (like Data)

  Make: Casio
  Model: Z-7000  (AKA: Zoomer, Tandy Z-PDA, AST GRiDPad 2390)
    Processor
        Model: NEC V20
        Speed: 7.7Mhz
        Bit size: 16-bit
    Display
        Type: Monochrome reflective, touchscreen
        Pixel Screen size: 320 x 256
    Memory
        Size: 1 Mb (384K user data & 640K system)
    Expansion slots
        Type: Type II PC-Card (PCMCIA 2.0)
        Number: 1
    Dimensions
        Size (W x D x H): 10.76 x 17.62 x 2.6 cm (4.2" x 6.8" x 1")
        Weight: 430 grams (15.2 ounces)
    Power Requirements
        Batteries: 3 x AA (main) & 2 x CR2032 (backup)
        Battery Life (Approx): Up to 90 hours
        Provision for AC Adaptor: Yes
    Input/Output Ports
        Serial (max speed): Yes, 10-pin, (19,200 bps)
        Parallel: No
        Infrared: Yes, (9600, Casio)
        Other: Round telescoping pen
    Keyboard: Yes, Virtual Pop-up software QWERTY, A-Z or International
    Included Applications:
        * Date Book (like Agenda)
        * Address Book (like Data)
        * Note  Book  (Digital  Ink  Scratchpad  & Document Manager with
          outliner)
        * Pocket Quicken (Financial Organiser)
        * America  Online  (Access  software for the service provider of
          the same name)
        * Calculator (like Calc)
        * Forms Calculator
        * World Clock (like World)
        * Language   Translator  (26  languages  &  up  1000  words  per
          language)
        * Games (Solitaire, Pyramid Solitaire & UKI)
        * File Manager
        * Consumer Information
        * U.S. Information
        * World Information

  Make: Hewlett Packard
  Model: 200LX
    Processor
        Model: Intel 80C186
        Speed: 7.91 MHz
        Bit size: 16-bit
    Display
        Type: CGA-compatible FTN liquid crystal
        Pixel Screen size: 640 x 200
    Memory
        Size: 1 or 2MB of RAM
    Expansion slots
        Type: Type II PC-Card (PCMCIA 2.0)
        Number: 1
    Dimensions
        Size (W x D x H): 16 x 8.64 x 2.54 cm (6.3" x 3.4" x 1")
        Weight: 312 grams  (11 ounces)
    Power Requirements
        Batteries: 2xAA (main) & 1xCR2032 (backup)
        Battery Life (Approx): ?
        Provision for AC Adaptor: Yes
    Input/Output Ports
        Serial (max speed): Yes, 9-wire (115K?)
        Parallel: No
        Infrared: Yes
        Other: No
    Keyboard: Yes, QWERTY
    Included Applications:
        * Pocket Quicken (Financial Organiser)
        * cc:Mail (E-mail client)
        * Data Communications (VT-100, ANSI & TTY emulation)
        * Lotus 1-2-3 r.2.4 (like Sheet)
        * Laplink (like Remote Link) for file transfers
        * Appointment Book (like Agenda)
        * Phone Book (like Data)
        * HP financial calculator (like Calc)
        * Memo editor with outliner (like Word)
        * Notetaker (like Notepad)
        * Database (like Data)
        * Filer (like File Manager)
        * Worldtime & Stopwatch (like World)
        * System Macros
        * Application Manager
        * Setup Utility

    See  also  the following WWW site for a more complete comparaison of
    Psion3a-HP200lx with over 170 articles:
    http://www.primate.wisc.edu/people/dubois/psion/

  Make: Hewlett Packard
  Model: OmniGo 100 Organizer Plus
    Processor
        Model: Intel 80C186 compatible
        Speed: 16 Mhz
        Bit size: 16-bit
    Display
        Type: FSTN LCD with Touchscreen
        Pixel Screen size: 240 x 240
    Memory
        Size: 1MB RAM
    Expansion slots
        Type: Type  II  PC-Card (PCMCIA 1.0:  SRAM memory cards no Flash
              or Modems)
        Number: 1
    Dimensions
        Size (W x D x H): 15.3 x 9.5 x 2.6 cm (6" x 3.7" x 1")
        Weight: 329 grams (11.6 ounces)
    Power Requirements
        Batteries: 2 x AA (main) & 1 x CR2032 (backup)
        Battery Life (Approx): ?
        Provision for AC Adaptor: No
    Input/Output Ports
        Serial (max speed): Yes, 10-wire, (?)
        Parallel: No
        Infrared: No
        Other: Yes, Pen
    Keyboard: Yes, QWERTY (5 function keys)
    Included Applications:
        * Appointment book (like Agenda)
        * Phonebook (like Data)
        * Notepad (like Word)
        * Database (like Data)
        * Worldtime and stopwatch (like World)
        * Jotter (Digital Ink Scratchpad)
        * Geoworks Book Reader
        * Financial Tools
        * Spreadsheet (like Sheet)
        * Emulated HP 12C financial calculator (like Calc)
        * Graffiti handwriting system (handwriting recognition)
        * Transfer (like Remote Link)
        * Setup Utility (like Install)
        * Solitaire

  Make: Motorola
  Model: Envoy Communicator
    Processor
        Model: Motorola Dragon 68349
        Speed: 16 Mhz
        Bit size: 32-bit
    Display
        Type: Reflective FSTN Touch Screen
        Pixel Screen size: 480 x 320
    Memory
        Size: 1 MB
    Expansion slots
        Type: Type II PC-Card (PCMCIA 2.0) slots
        Number: 2
    Dimensions
        Size (W x D x H): 14.8 x 19.2 x 2.9 cm (5.8" x 7.6" x 1.2")
        Weight: 770 grams (1.7 pounds)
    Power Requirements
        Batteries: Rechargeable Ni-Cad (main) & 1 x CR2032 (backup)
        Battery Life (Approx): 8 hours
        Provision for AC Adaptor: Yes, combined with Charger
    Input/Output Ports
        Serial (max speed): Yes, 14-pin MagicBus (38,400 bps)
        Parallel: Yes, MagicBus
        Infrared: Yes, FSK compliant
        Other: 2  round  full  length  pens, 4800 bps send/receive radio
               packet  modem,  9600  bps  FAX send modem & 2400 bps data
               modem
    Keyboard: Optional, QWERTY
    Included Applications:
        * Date Book (like Agenda)
        * World Time Clock (like World)
        * Address Book (like Data)
        * Notebook (like Agenda To-Do List)
        * Calculator (like Calc)
        * America  Online  (connection software for the service provider
          of  the  same  name)
        * AT&T PersonaLink (connection software for the service provider
          of the same name)
        * SmartWallet

  Make: Sharp
  Model: ZR-5000 & ZR-5000FX   AKA: Zaurus K-PDA
    Processor
        Model: Sharp Proprietary
        Speed: ?
        Bit size: 16-bit
    Display
        Type: DFSTN LCD, Touch screen (finger or stylus)
        Pixel Screen size: 320 x 240
    Memory
        Size: 1MB RAM (750k user data & 250K system)
    Expansion slots
        Type: Type II PC-Card (PCMCIA 2.0)
        Number: 1
    Dimensions
        Size (W x D x H): 17.0 x 10.0 x 2.54 cm  (6.7" x 3.9" x 1.0")
        Weight: 385 grams  (13.6 ounces approx.)
    Power Requirements
        Batteries: 2 x AA (main) & 1 x CR-2032 (backup)
        Battery Life (Approx): Up to 60 hours (~2 months)
        Provision for AC Adaptor: Yes
    Input/Output Ports
        Serial (max speed): Yes, 15-pin proprietary, (19,200 bps)
        Parallel: No (?)
        Infrared: Yes, (IrDA & ASK Compliant)
        Other: Round pen & FAX modem with ZR-5000FX
    Keyboard: Yes, QWERTY configuration
    Included Applications:
        * Activities (like Agenda)
        * Contacts (like Data) limited to 3 files
        * Data Files (also like Data) limited to 3 files
        * Notes (Digital Ink Scratchpad)
        * Documents (like Word) with Spell Checker
        * Outline (like Outline mode in Word)
        * Home & World Clocks (like Time & World)
        * Calculator (like Calc)
        * Filer (Manages Printing, Faxing, Email & File transfers)
        * Messaging (E-mail client)
        * FAX/Sending (FAX client)
        * Terminal Mode (ASCII & VT-100 emulation)

  Make: USR
  Model: Pilot
    Could someone Email me the specs? Thanks!

1.6 Where can I purchase a Psion?

  Prices  for  2Mb  Psion are quoted for each when known, but you should
  contact  vendors  for latest prices, as they change quite a bit, and I
  don't track those changes here very often.

  Numbers marked "[US/CA only]" means that the number can only be called
  from  the  USA  or Canada (sometimes both, sometimes only one).  If no
  other  number  is specified, the person or company presumably does not
  want  to  deal  with customers from elsewhere.

  Usually, you will get the best deal from a UK vendor (but keep in mind
  that you will also get a UK version!)

  Important  note:   these  addresses  have  NOT been verified, so check
  before you intend to buy from one of them!  Also, I am NOT listing any
  more vendors without web sites.


  UK Standard list price                       Psion 3a/2Mb: 399 UKP

  Various shops in Tottenham Court Road, London UK.
                                               Psion 3a/2Mb: 329 UKP

  Byson Computers [UK]
      Fax: [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    http://www.hiway.co.uk/~byson/

  Clove Technology [UK]
    [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    http://intertrader.com/computers/clove/

  Jonathon Glaser
    New World Technologies, New York, USA
    110 Greene St, Suite 1100
    New York, NY 10012 USA
    1 800 886 4967 [Toll free in USA only] Promises best available deal
    Phone: [phone] [worldwide access]
      Fax: [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>, <[e-mail]> (GidNEW on AOL)
    http://www.nwt.com

  Internet Shopping Network (usually have very cheap prices)
    http://www.internet.net

  NDS Distributing
    11875 Dublin Boulevard, Suite D-270
    Dublin, CA 94568 USA
    Phone: [phone] [US/CA only]
    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]
    http://www.ndsdistributing.com


  Official Psion distributors:

  Argentina
    PSIAR
    Avendia de Mayo 963,
    3rd Floor
    Buenos Aires
    Phone: [phone]
           [phone]
      Fax: [phone]

  Belgium and Luxembourg
    Micro-Connection
    Korte Winkelstraat 15,
    2000 Antwerpen
    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]
      BBS: [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>

  Australia
    Psitech Ltd
    Kangy Angy
    Phone: [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
           <[e-mail]>

  Canada
    Compulys Data Inc.
    Place Montreal Trust
    1800, Avenue McGill College, Bureau 2102
    Montreal (Quebec) H3A 3J6
    Phone: [phone] [US/CA only]
    Phone: +1 514 98 PSION [International]
      Fax: [phone]

  Finland
    Hand Held Systems
    Torikatu 6-A, 451000
    Kouvola
    Phone: [phone]
    Email: Pekka Aikas - <[e-mail]>

  Kuwait
    Nascorp Kuwait
    c/o Anwar Essa Al-Saleh Est.
    P.O. Box 4704
    Safat, Kuwait  13048
    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]
    Email: Essa Al-Saleh - <[e-mail]>

  Netherlands
    Psion Nederland B.V.
    Avio Trade Park
    Zandsteen 54
    2132 MR Hoofddorp
    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]
      BBS: [phone]
    Email: Ferenc Horvath - <[e-mail]>

  Portugal
    Comp 3 Lda
    Rua Augusto Gil 30 A/B
    1100 Lisbon
    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]

  Saudia Arabia
    Nascorp
    P.O. Box 2951
    Jeddah 21461
    Phone: [phone] (Jeddah)
    Phone: [phone] (Riyadh)
    Email: Essa Al-Saleh - <[e-mail]>

  Spain
    Paresa SA
    c/ Balmes 113, ppal 1a
    08008 Barcelona
    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]

  Switzerland
    Excom AG
    Moosacherstrasse 6, Au
    8820 Wadenswil
    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]

1.7 How can I contact Psion?

1.7.1 World Headquarters

  UK Offices:
  Alexander House
  85 Frampton St
  London NW8 8NQ
    Phone: [phone]  Main desk
           [phone]  Repairs
           [phone]  Technical enquiries
           [phone]  Sales & customer services
           [phone]  Main switchboard
           [phone]  Technical support hotline
           [phone]  SDK support
           [phone]  Repair administration
                             (call only with returns note number)

      Fax: [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
           <[e-mail]>

  UK Service centre:
  17-19 Bristol Road
  Greenford
  Middlesex UB6 8UP
  [phone]

1.7.2 USA (Psion Incorporated)

  Corporate Headquarters
    150 Baker Avenue
    Concord, MA 01742
    USA
    Phone: 1 800 54 PSION [USA callers only]
    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    Email: <[e-mail]>

  Midwest Office
    225 West Washington St., Suite 2242
    Chicago, IL 60606
    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]

  West Coast Office
    433 California Street
    Suite 520
    San Francisco, CA 94104
    Phone: [phone]

  In the USA only, contact 1 800 54 PSION to order parts.

  They also have a WWW page at: http://www.psioninc.com/
  Please  note that this is NOT the official Psion WWW site from London.
  That one is yet to come.

1.7.3 Germany

  Psion GmbH
    Saalburgstrasse 157
    61350 Bad Homburg
    Germany

    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]

    Hotline: [phone]
    Mailbox: [phone]
    (Dacom GmbH is on [phone], Hotline on -42)

    Email: <[e-mail]>
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    http://emporium.turnpike.net/P/psion-gmbh/

End of part 1/5
From: [e-mail] (Daniel `HB9VBC' Pfund)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.psion,comp.sys.palmtops,comp.answers,news.answers
Subject: comp.sys.psion FAQ part 2/5
Followup-To: comp.sys.psion
Approved: [e-mail]
Summary: This article is a collection of information on the Psion
         Series 3(a) palmtop computers. It should be read by anyone
         intending to post to the comp.sys.psion newsgroup.

Archive-name: psion-faq/part2
Version: $VER: Psion FAQ v1.4 (May 1996)
Posting-Frequency: monthly
URL: http://www.bris.ac.uk/~lwmdcg/Psion/FAQ/  (FAQ repository)
     http://www.lookup.com/homepages/53994/    (My own homepage)

part 2
======

  See  part 1 for complete table of contents of this FAQ (including this
  part's).


2. HARDWARE
===========
2.1 Hardware specifications

  All Psion machines are based around the "SIBO architecture", which was
  developed  to  meet  common goals which span the SIBO range, including
  Series 3.

  Of paramount importance is low power usage.  To this end CMOS circuits
  are  used,  the  CPUs  are static - meaning their clocks can be slowed
  down  or  stopped  and  restarted  without impairing function, and the
  specially   designed   ASIC   chips   implement   sophisticated  power
  management,  which always ensures that only those parts of the machine
  which are needed, are powered up.  Power is provided by 2 AA batteries
  during  normal  operation.   A  Lithium  backup  battery, a CR1620, is
  provided  which  maintains  memory  during  battery  changes.  A mains
  adaptor inlet is provided.

  A  system clock runs independently of the CPU even when the machine is
  "off".   This  allows  it to keep time and to wake the machine up when
  (for example) alarms expire.

  A  six-pin outlet is provided, through which serial and parallel ports
  may be connected.  This outlet has exactly the same signals as the two
  expansion ports (SSDs).

  A  sound  system  implements beeps on the Series 3 through a low power
  piezo-electric  element  at  two  volumes.   On the 3a there is a more
  sophisticated   system  employing  bi-directional  digital-to-analogue
  conversion,  a  conventional speaker, and a microphone, which together
  support  the  recording  and  playback  of  digitally-recorded  sound.
  Digital sound data is compressed and expanded between 8 and 13 bits by
  hardware  in  an  ASIC  using  the Alaw algorithm during recording and
  playback  respectively,  at  a  sample rate of 8KHz.  This performance
  conforms  to  the ISDN standard for digital phone systems.  A Series 3
  buzzer emulation is also available on the 3a.

  For  both  machines,  there  are  two expansion ports, also called SSD
  drives, into which RAM or EPROM memory modules may be placed.

  The  memory  is  split  into two types:  process and storage.  Storage
  memory  is  only  used for storing data.  Process memory is the memory
  used  by the processor.  Programs run in this type of memory.  Process
  memory  is  limited  on  _all_  Psions  to  512k maximum.  There is no
  storage memory on Psions with 512k RAM or less.  To be honest, this is
  a  not  a  big  problem, since the Psion implements a real good memory
  management  and  "windows" the memory needed for each application.  In
  practice,  this  means  that  you  can open several huge databases for
  example and only need 10k of memory for each one.

  In tabular form, the differences are summarised below:

      Item              Series 3                  Series 3a
  HARDWARE

   PROCESSOR
     name               V30H (80C86 compatible)   V30H(80C86 compatible)
     Bitwidth           16                        16
     Speed              3.84 MHz                  7.68 MHz
     video mem access   8 bit - half speed        16 bit - full speed

   DISPLAY
     Type               Monochrome LCD            Monochrome LCD
     Physical size      97 x 39 mm approx         126 x 45 mm approx
     Display size       240x80                    480x160
     Display depth      2 - black/white           3 - black/grey/white

   MEMORY
     Internal           128 or 256Kbyte           256Kb,512Kb,1Mb,2Mb
     Expansion          2 slots = 16Meg max       2 slots = 16 Meg max

   DIMENSIONS
     Size                  16.5 x 8.5 x 2.2 cm (6.5" x 3.3" x 0.9")
     Weight                      275 grams including batteries

   SOUND
     Output device      Piezo beeper              Loudspeaker
     Capability         variable pitched Beeps    Any sound
                        and DTMF [*]
     Digital system     NONE                      DAC/ADC 8/13 bits
     Sound recording    NONE                      8K samples per second
     Telephone dialler  DTMF capability           DTMF capability

   *Further sounds can be generated if a custom device driver is written

   PARALLEL PORT        Via optional link         Via optional link

   SERIAL PORT          Via optional link         Via optional link
     Software           Installed in link pod     In Psion 3a ROM
     Max speed          9600 baud                 19200 baud

  SOFTWARE

   SYSTEM SHELL         Controls applications     Upgraded on Series 3a

   DATA                 Database application      Upgraded on Series 3a

   WORD                 Comprehensive document    Upgraded on Series 3a
                        processing system

   AGENDA               Personal management       Major upgrades on 3a
                        application

   TIME                 Clock and alarms manager  Upgraded on Series 3a

   WORLD                World info database       Cosmetic upgrade on 3a

   CALC                 Calculator                Calculator
                        Allowing OPL extension    Cosmetic upgrade on 3a

   SHEET  [*]           Spreadsheet application   Speadsheet application
                        available as add-on [*]   built-in

   *In  the  US,  and  latterly  in the UK, the "Series 3s" includes the
    spreadsheet as standard (not for 128k models)

   SPELL CHECKER/THESAURUS       add-on           Only on 1/2Mb models *

   PATIENCE GAME                 add-on           Only on 1/2Mb models *

   *Spell   checker/thesaurus  and  patience  game  are  apparently  not
    available  on  all country specific 1/2Mb models (ie:  not available
    for french nor german models!)

   OPL                   Programming application  Series 3 compatibility
                                                  mode also available.

2.2 What batteries does the Psion use?

  Normal  power  is  provided  by  two AA (also known as LR6) batteries.
  Standby power is provided by a small Lithium backup battery, a CR1620,
  which maintains system data during main battery changes or failure.

2.3 How long do the batteries last?

  It  all  actually depends on what type of batteries you use.  Here are
  the advantages and disadvantages of the different battery types:

    -Alkalines.  These are the "normal" batteries and work well.

    -Carbon/Zinc.   These  batteries  are  cheaper than alkalines but of
     course  don't  last  as  long.  Might be interesting if you can get
     them really cheap and are ready to change batteries often.

    -NiCad  rechargeables.   These proivde less energy than conventional
     batteries  (reports  suggest maybe half) and they fade rapidly once
     their  charge  is  nearly gone, but - they are rechargeable, and so
     offer  a  cost  effective  alternative.   Note  that NiCads are NOT
     recharging while the machine is powered by the adaptor.

    -Lithium  AA  batteries.   They  are 30% lighter than alkalines, and
     they  last longer, but they are more expensive.  Recommended if you
     really  need  long  battery  life and in extreme conditions.  These
     batteries have a very long shelve life.

  The  link  causes  high  battery  loadings,  as does the sound system.
  Accessing  the SSDs also increases power drain.  Because of the static
  architecture,  a  busy  CPU  drains more power than a sleeping one, so
  compute-intensive  tasks  will  burn  power.  For these reasons, it is
  difficult  to  quote  battery performance exactly, but the table below
  summarises reports received on the net (for a 512k version).

                            Alkaline           NiCad           Lithium

  Running time (Hrs)         40-80              20              65-100
  Power  delivered (mAh)     1500               800           1600-2700
  Price each (UKP)           0.5                                 4.5
  Comment                                                    30% lighter

  1/2Mb  models  use  more  battery  power  since  they  use memory bank
  switching which is processor intensive.

  The backup battery typically lasts 15 months.

2.4 How does the Psion measure the battery usage? (by Alan Roberts)

  Actually,  the battery consumption is only estimated, there is no real
  voltage  meter  inside the Psion.  The Psion knows the average battery
  consumption  in  each state (ie:  xx mA when playing a WVE file; yy mA
  when  writing  on  flash ... ) and keeps a record of the time spent in
  each  state.   When  the voltage drops below a threshold, the "replace
  batteries" and "emptying batteries" display appear.

2.5 Where can I find the backup battery?

  It has been reported difficult to obtain these in the UK, so here is a
  small  list  to  get  you  started.  You should first check your local
  _watch_ shop, since this is essentially a watch battery.

   Sangers photographic, Birmingham      0121-523-4471
   C.D. Zelley Ltd, Thetford             01842-755303
   Apollo watch products, Tonypandy      01443-432474
   Swains International, Hunstanton      01485-533393
   Newey & Eyre Ltd, branches throughout the UK
   Watchmaker supply, Oxford             01993-842442

2.6 How can I make my batteries last longer?

  The most important thing is to always turn the serial link OFF when
you don't use it. This is the number one power eater on your Psion.

  Here are some other more or less obvious tips:

  1)Be sure to set the "auto power off" feature ON
  2)Turn the auto update list to OFF, set it to use the System button
  3)When  you want tu update just one list, use delete and ESC.  This is
    much  quicker  than  pressing  the  System  button  (and should save
    battery power).
  4)Avoid  switching on with the System button, as this would update all
    the lists.
  5)Let  the  applications  open  multiple  files.   Preferably  set the
    preference  to  "Enter" instead of "Shift-Enter" as you often forget
    to  press  shift-enter.   Saving and opening files uses more battery
    power than to leave the files open.

  Thanks must go to Philippe Lebreton for these great tips.

2.7 Can I use an external power supply?

  Yes,  the  Psion  comes  with  a  standard power outlet so you can use
  either  the  official  Psion  power  supply or a general-purpose mains
  adaptor (which is cheaper).  Negative polarity should be selected - ie
  the  tip  should  be  negative.   The  power  supply should be able to
  deliver  150mA at 9V.  The Psion adaptor has an indentation around the
  outer  conductor  near the tip which facilitates snug fit for improved
  reliability.

  You  can  plug the external power supply in/out while the Psion is on.
  It  will  then  immediately  use the external power or batteries.  The
  Psion also has an automatic turn off possibility.  This is very useful
  if you often forget to turn it off!   One of the choices for this auto
  turn  off  feature is "If no external power", so you can safely use it
  on  external  power  and it will not turn itself off anymore until you
  unplug it again.

2.8 Can I upgrade my Solid State Disk (SSD)?

  Flash  SSDs  are  cheaper than RAM SSDs because the filesystem doesn't
  actually  allow you to recover deleted space on them.  Even if they're
  cheap  compared  to  real  RAMs, they're still quite expensive because
  they're  not  manufactered on a big scale (they're Psion proprietary).
  This  tempted  several  people  to  accomplish  upgrades.  It has been
  successfully done, but I decided _not_ to describe it here for several
  reasons:

  1)It  wouldn't  be fair to Psion PLC.  Think about it:  it would prive
    them  of rightly owned money for their R&D and that wouldn't make us
    many friends, would it?

  2)The chips you need aren't easy to find.

  3)It is quite easy to do for a trained electronics technician, so that
    person wouldn't need any instructions anyway.  If you don't have the
    expertise, don't even think about it!

2.9 Can I upgrade my internal RAM?

  The  big  question  when  the 1/2Mb models came out:  can I upgrade my
  512k  to  a  2Mb  model?   Well, sorry, but the answer is no.  The new
  models  use  a new ROM to access the extra memory.  Psion PLC does not
  offer  upgrades  for  new models either.  The best solution is to sell
  your old model and get a more recent one.

  But, if you own a 128/256k or 1Mb model, upgrading it is just a matter
  of adding more RAM to it.  Psion PLC can do this for you, contact them
  about it.

  For  the  time being, process memory is limited to 512k on every model
  and you cannot add more whatever you do.

2.10 Can I change the keyboard?

  A  lot  of people buy their Psions in the UK because of the huge price
  difference  compared  to  their own country.  This is not a problem in
  itself  if  you just remember that you will be getting the UK version,
  thus  the  UK keyboard, applications and manual.  This also the reason
  why  so  many people would like to change the keys of their keyboards.
  For  these  people,  there is no simple solution.  The keyboard map is
  not  just  a  file  held  in RAM, so basically, you're stuck with your
  keyboard, but there are workarounds to this:

  1)In  many applications, you can enter special characters (for example
    -  foreign  characters  not  found  on the keyboard) by holding down
    control,  then  typing  the  three  digits of the ASCII code for the
    character  (ASCII  code  table on page 246 of the User Guide).  This
    works  for  all characters in the range 32 to 255.  Some lower codes
    are used for control purposes.

  2)There  is  also a quicker way to enter letters with accents, umlauts
    etc.   CONTROL  can  be  used  with  the  number keys as a character
    modifier  directive.   For  example,  "2"  is  the  "Add  an Umlaut"
    command,  so you can hold down CONTROL then press "2" and "o" to get
    a umlauted "o".  Most numbers are chosen as convenient mnemonics:  2
    has " above it - which looks like an Umlaut; 3 has \ which simulates
    a  grave  accent  but  4  has  ~,  which produces (oddly!) and acute
    accent, whereas 5 which has a ' produces a tilde!  See the Character
    set section of the user guide for details.

  3)Use  Tom  Dolbilin's  excellent  Macro  System  package  to assign a
    "macro" to a regular key, thus emulating another key.

  4)Use Konstantin I.  Saliy's keyboard map program to remap the keys in
    a  very efficient manner which works with all programs and only uses
    6k of memory!

2.11 Can I use a big (normal) keyboard?

  Yes,  if  you  have  Tom Dolbilin's Macro System installed, there is a
  macro  called "BigKeys" which actually reads the serial port and sends
  the   key   to   the   HWIM   application  you're  currently  running.
  Unfortunately,  it  will  _not_ work with normal OPL applications.  On
  the  other hand, you will still need another computer to send the keys
  over the serial line, so it really isn't what people are looking for!

  Keith Baker <[e-mail]> has made a little interface for just
  a normal keyboard (without the need for another computer) connected to
  the  Psion  using  the  3-Link interface .  Note that it will not work
  with OPL applications either.

2.12 How can I build a serial link? (by Konstantin I. Saliy)

  For  the  common mortal:  you can't.  If you have the C/OPL SDK, there
  is  a  diagram  of  a TTL RS232 interface...  BUT the diagram is based
  around  a  Psion  custom  chip called "ASIC5".  This chip converts the
  SIBO  serial  channel into standard RS232 signals and back.  According
  to  the  documentation  this  chip  is available from Psion for custom
  expansion  development.  Documentation also provides information about
  modification of example device for CMOS levels.

  But  this device is a serial link only, not a real 3-Link.  The 3-Link
  contains  a  ROM  "SSD"  with  software.   You can use the serial link
  instead  of  3Link  but  some applications (I'm not sure, it's only my
  opinion)  can  check  if disk C is present or even for disk C's serial
  number.   Of  course  if  an  application  uses  only  device  drivers
  interface (VT100 emulators) it will work anyway.

  The SIBO Serial Protocol is also described in the SDK.  Refer to it if
  you want know more about Psion expansion port.

2.13 How can I build a parallel link? (by Konstantin I. Saliy)

  If  you have read the previous section, you can realize that a one-way
  parallel  link is much easier to make for people who are familiar with
  digital  logic.   Two  way  parallel  link  is possible also:  typical
  parallel  link  baud  rate is 40K bytes/sec, and SIBO interface allows
  you  1.5M  bit/sec, but you'll need a hardware buffer and PDD/LDD pair
  to receive data.

2.14 What is this "soap on a rope" thing?

  The  "soap  on  a  rope" is simply another name for the 3-Link.  It is
  named  like  that  because  of it's ressemble with (guess what ;-) the
  well known soap on a rope.

2.15 How do I print with my Psion?

  There are a number of ways you can print from your Psion

  1)Through  the  parallel  link,  connect  your  Psion directly to your
    printer but do _not_ turn the link on in the system screen!

  2)Through   the   serial  link  -  use  the  printer  setup  dialogues
    appropriately and do _not_ turn the link on in the system screen!

  3)Use  PRINT  SETUP  to select printing to a file called REM::C:\LPT1.
    Run  MCLINK  on  your PC, and activate the link from the Psion.  Now
    all  print  requests will go through the link to the PC printer, and
    MCLINK  is available for file transfers - better than MCPRINT.  This
    solution  also works with RCOM.  On some PCs running Windows, it may
    be  better  to  print  to  LPT1.PRN,  which  traverses  through  the
    DOS/Windows device drivers slightly differently.  (by Daniel Senie)

  4)Use  RFM  (see  elsewhere  in the FAQ) to make Psion drives visible,
    then use a conventional PC tool to print files from the Psion.

2.16 Can I take my Psion through an X-Ray machine?

  Yes  you  can without fear.  Nowadays the airport's X-Ray machines are
  harmless  to  palmtop  computers and diskettes (hopefully ;-).  In any
  case, if you're really not assured, ask to pass it seperately.

2.17 Can my Psion wipe out magnetic data?

  Yes it can!  Be careful with the underside of your Psion because it is
  actually  the  speaker which contains a magnet whom is responsible for
  such  problems.   Credit  cards and other magnetic data seem to be the
  easiest  "victims"  of  the  magnet.  Check out the first page of your
  User  Guide  for  Psion's  own  warning  about  this.  You can try the
  paperclip  test  which  consists  of  taking  a pile of paperclips and
  placing the Psion on top of it.  Lifting the Psion will typically take
  5 paperclips with it!


3. SOFTWARE
===========
3.1 How do I reset my Psion?

  You  should  not  normally  need  to  reset  your machine at all.  See
  "What  is killing a process?" to find out how to terminate misbehaving
  applications.   Doing  a  RESET re-initializes the system's processes.
  It re-starts things as though it had just been powered up, and so will
  make  many  error  conditions go away.  Doing a reset will also remove
  any  software  patches  you  may have applied.  These would need to be
  re-applied  after  each  reset.   A soft reset will also make you lose
  your  user-defined  groups  and installed software icons (but the real
  software, ie: the program, should still be there).

  There are two kinds of reset.  A SOFT RESET or WARM reset will restart
  processes  and lose your time zone information, but leave the contents
  of  the RAM disk, and environment variables intact.  Do this by gently
  pushing  something  like  a straightened paperclip into the small hole
  above the ESC/On key to do a "warm reset".

  A  HARD  RESET  or  COLD RESET will completely re-initialize the whole
  machine,  removing  all  memory  contents.   Complete instructions for
  performing  this  action are included in the "Troubleshooting" chapter
  of your "User Guide".

3.2 What is killing a process?

  Killing  a  process is like closing an application but without letting
  it  know.   This will result in loss of data if the application didn't
  save  it  before being killed, so be warned!  Usually, you can exit an
  application  (from  within  it)  with  Psion-x (for english Psions) or
  Psion-Esc.   If  the application doesn't respond to keypresses anymore
  and  nothing  else works, you will have to kill it.  For this, you can
  go  to the system screen and press Psion-shift-k (for enlgish Psions).
  You  can also use other specific programs which allow killing of _any_
  process (Spy is one of them).

3.3 How can I save what's on the screen?

  From any point, you can take a screen snapshot, by holding down shift,
  control,   Psion,  and  S.   The  PIC  file  generated  is  placed  in
  M:SCREEN.PIC.

3.4 What is the soak test? (by Jason Savage)

  WARNING:  INITIATING THE SOAK TEST WILL CAUSE THE LOSS OF USER DEFINED
  GROUPS AND USER INSTALLED SOFTWARE!!!

  It has long been known in the computer and electronics industries that
  electrical  components,  for  the most part, fail either shortly after
  they  are  first activated or after many years of service.  Because of
  this  fact  the  concept  of the soak test or burn-in or life test was
  invented.   Simply  put,  the machine (in this case a computer) is put
  through a repetitive testing loop for several hours (24 for the Psions
  to be more precise).  This procedure would then filter out most of the
  bad  batches  and  prevent them from reaching the hands of the general
  consumers.

  To activate the soak test on the Psion series 3, press (See warning at
  the  beginning  of  this  section) Control-Shift-Psion-K on the System
  screen.  This procedure will cause a soft-reset of your Psion.

3.5 How can I find a text in my memos with Agenda?

  Actually, you can't!  Psion hasn't implemented this feature yet.  What
  you  can  do,  is  use another program called "MemoFind" which will do
  just  that.  It's a freeware program from Psion available at usual FTP
  sites.

3.6 How can I make the cursor bigger?

  It  may  get  difficult trying to find the cursor in Word for example.
  Unfortunately,  there  is  no  way  to make it bigger.  Some suggested
  solutions  are to press shift-right (to highlight a character) or home
  (to find the cursor on the far left).

3.7 How can I take out the "hum" when I record sounds?

  The  hum  (apparently a 60Hz sound) appears only when you record using
  battery power.  If you use the AC adapter, the hum disappears.

3.8 How safe is password protection?

  See also "Data security with link connected" in next section.

  The  Word  password  protection  is not really good.  It is known that
  it's  possible  to  "crack" the password (but not find it) and see the
  clear  text  in  a  very  short time (reported by Clive D.W.Feather in
  Dec94).   Obviously, you do need some programming skills to do it, but
  all in all, it is feasible, so be warned!

  Another  issue  is  power  on  password protection.  Apparently, it is
  possible  to  bypass it somehow; no infos are given!.  Just don't rely
  on it too much.  Also, remember that if you keep some data on your SSD
  Disks,  the  potential  thieve  can  still  read those informations by
  simply transfering the disks into another Psion!

  The bottom line is that the password functions of the Psion are useful
  for  keeping  casual  snoops  from  reading your data while you're off
  making  a  phone  call, but if you're seriously worried about security
  then you shouldn't be keeping sensitive material on a handheld machine
  in the first place.

3.9 How can I change the icon of a program? (by Matthew Powell)

  1)Install the application on the System screen in the usual way.
  2)Use the "create new list" command (Psion-E).  Enter the same working
    directory and file extension as for the original application.
  3)The "create new list" dialog will allow you to specify a custom icon
    in exactly the same way as when creating a group.
  4)Enter a name for the new list.

  Once  you've  done  this  the application should have two lists on the
  System screen.  Remove the one with the original icon.

  If you create a new list for Word, read this:
  The  Word  application maintains a different template (which holds the
  styles  and  default preferences) for each list.  To carry on with the
  same  template  as you had before, you will need to make a copy of the
  file Default.wrt in the \WDR directory.  The copy should have the same
  name  as  your  list, with a .wrt extension.  For example, if your new
  list was called "Notes", copy \WDR\Default.wrt to \WDR\Notes.wrt.

  Alternatively, use a program called NEWICON2.OPA which does just that!

3.10 How  can I permanently change the distance units in World?  (by Ian
     Phillipps)

  World  takes  its  distance  cue  from the printer defaults set on the
  System screen (Psion-y on UK Psions).  Set it to centimetres and World
  will use kilometres as default.

3.11 Why do some programs crash with an "Invalid arguments" error?

  Some  applications (mainly free/shareware) crash with an error message
  like:
    ERORR in PROGRAM\PROC
    Invalid arguments

  This  is  due  to  changes in the UK default settings of either number
  formats  (System  menu) or time format (Time).  You could try changing
  these but you're better off informing the programmer of the problem!

3.12 Why  is  my  Psion  not switching itself off automatically anymore?
     (by Philippe Lebreton)

  1)Obvious: because you changed the "Auto switch off" to NO.
  2)You  changed  it to "If no external power" and you're using external
    power...
  3)The  Series  3 will only switch off if no task is outpending (eg:  a
    spreadsheet is calculating in the background).
  4)Some  badly programmed programs do never stop performing a task.  If
    you know which one it is, close it.  If you don't, close them all.
  5)Some  files  are  still running but you can't see them on the System
    screen.   These  are  often IMG programs which might sub-application
    programs (ie:  launched by another one) that you are not supposed to
    see.   You  can  attempt  to see them by cycling through the running
    processes with Shift-System.  If you want to kill a process, you can
    use   Control-shift-Psion-k.    If   you  cannot  find  any  suspect
    processes,  then  the process probably doesn't allow you to bring it
    to  the  foreground.   The only way to find these is to use SPY from
    Psion and kill them from there.  But beware, don't kill any SYS$xxxx
    processes  as  these  are  system  processes  and need to be running
    (otherwise your Psion would reset itself).
  6)If  all  else  really  fails,  do a soft reset.  All your files will
    still be there but your System screen needs to be re installed.

3.13 How  can  I change the fonts in the system applications?  (by Roman
     Habrat)

  "A  time  ago  I  sarched  for a method for changing the fonts used by
  standard   applications.    I  wanted  to  implement  polish  national
  characters  in the fonts.  No success.  The only fonts one can replace
  are  dialog/menu  fonts, "screen corner message" font and some little,
  unimportant  fonts  used  by  i.e.  clock.  The other fonts are opened
  directly from ROM by the applications.

  I  understand why.  The Psion creators prepared methods to use another
  fonts by additional applications (by opening a user's own fonts).  But
  user   applications   use   also  menus  and  dialogs.   So  there  is
  wSetSystemFont()  function  to  change  font in them.  And that's all.
  The  creators  did  not foresee that one would want to change fonts in
  the built-in application.

  There is commercial solution for national characters problem (apart of
  changing the hardware ROM).  It was implemented in Czech Republic, and
  now  in Poland.  Parts of operating system located in memory (RAM) are
  replaced,  and  new  parts  are  added.   All English system texts are
  replaced  by  Polish  texts.   The fonts are modified.  Additional key
  combinations  are  interpreted.   It works.  But it uses 170 KB of RAM
  (80  for  OS,  and 90 for resource files), so it is better for 1MB/2MB
  models."

3.14 Is Perl ported to the Psion? (by Bruce Stephens)

  "The answer is no, because of memory limitations.  Something Perl-like
  is  surely  practical,  but  I  don't know of anything.  Scheme exists
  though,  in  a rather limited (just about useless) form; see my "port"
  (more "compilation" really) of scm http://supr.scm.liv.ac.uk/~bruce/ "


4. TIPS & TRICKS FOR GENERAL USAGE
==================================
4.1 Known hardware problems & solutions

4.1.1 Battery  warnings  (see  also  below:  "problems  when opening the
      machine")

  The  contacts  to  the main batteries are poor in many machines.  This
  causes  the  machine  to report low battery power inappropriately, and
  may  cause automatic switchoff.  The fix is to ensure the contacts are
  clean,  and  making  firm contact with the battery.  Different battery
  brands  can  be  slightly  different  sizes,  so  pick  a  larger one.
  Batteries  with  dimples in either contact are more prone to problems.
  You  might  consider kludging a fix by bending the contacts, or decide
  to return your machine for replacement.  Note that when replacing dead
  batteries  with  NiCads,  you  may  see  the REPLACE warning for a few
  seconds after the new cells are inserted.  This is normal, and will go
  away on its own.

4.1.2 Problems when opening the machine

  Opening/closing the older Series 3's can cause (possibly intermittent)
  problems  to  the  machine's  power supply, which in turn can manifest
  several  problems mentioned in this FAQ.  The constant twisting of the
  lead  connecting  the  main  board  to  the battery contacts can cause
  damage.   This  problem  is  the  most  serious one and is know as the
  "dreaded  battery  lead problem".  Psion will repair this in warranty.
  You  can  fix  it yourself if your machine is out of warranty.  Remove
  the  screws  behind  the  batteries.   Sometime re-seating the two-pin
  connector  will  give  a  permanent  fix,  otherwise, if you're handy,
  replace the wires.  This should not be a problem on newer Series 3a's,
  but one never knows...

4.1.3 Automatic dialling

  The  built-in  dialer  is  reported as variously as excellent, through
  unreliable  to  un-useable.   Sometimes it will work on internal phone
  systems  but  not  BT  - sometimes vice versa.  The recommendation for
  improving  performance is to place the Series 3 on a flat non-resonant
  surface, and holding the phone just above it - not against it.

4.1.4 Alarms replaced by odd beeps

  Not  a bug, but a response by your machine to low battery power.  When
  there  is  insufficient  power to play the chosen alarm, it makes this
  noise  which  is  designed  to  be  loud but economical on power.  Low
  available  power  can also be caused by poor battery connections or by
  the "dreaded battery lead problem" mentioned earlier.

4.1.5 Alarms come in pairs

  Several  people  report that their machine can get into a mode whereby
  alarms  sound - and need to be acknowledged - twice.  This problem can
  be  fixed by doing a soft reset or sometimes by exiting and restarting
  Agenda.

4.1.6 Display problems

  The Psion display flickers in bright sunlight - use an umbrella.

  The  LCD  display  works  in  such  a  way that the reflected light is
  polarized.    If   you   wear   polarising  sunglasses  who  plane  of
  polarization  is  at  odds  with that of the Psion, you'll see a blank
  screen.   Fix:  Take your shades off, or get some which are not simple
  polarizing lenses.  Ray-Bans, for example, do not polarize in a single
  plane.

  Some  people  have  noticed  problems  with odd pixels, lines, rows or
  patches  of  pixels  (usually  in  a  corner - usually the lower right
  corner).  These remain on (dark) all the time.  In each case, there is
  no real fix but to return the machine for repair or replacement.

4.1.7 An area of darker pixels appears in one corner of the LCD (by Nick
      Craig-Wood)

  This  just  seems to happen with ageing of the LCD.  It doesn't appear
  to  get  any  worse, and if you have your LCD replaced it is likely to
  happen  again.   It  may  be related to the stresses of the LCD in the
  case but this is unverified.

4.1.8 Lifting button bar

  Older  Series3's  had  problems  with the button bar at the top of the
  keyboard,  which  has  a  tendency to lift off.  Also, some often-used
  buttons  could  stop  working.   Replacement is the best option.  Glue
  might  help  those  with  no warranty.  See the manual for key presses
  which can in all cases duplicate the function of defunct buttons.

4.1.9 Left hinge breaks

  This  might  be  due  to excessive wear and tear on the extension port
  (but  unverified).   It  seems  that  it  is a design flaw which Psion
  doesn't  want  to  admit...   whatever  the  case,  there  is no other
  solution  than glue or replacement!  Ali Manson (Psion Inc's Technical
  Manager) stated that this problem occured in about 1.5% of all returns
  they receive.  So don't be scared off by the apparently huge number of
  people stating having had this problem in the news groups!

4.1.10 Key marks on display

  This  is  a quite common problem when the Psion is new.  The upper and
  lower  body  of  the  case  are a little too tight so when you open it
  again,  you  see some key marks on the screen.  Apparently it also has
  something  to  do  with the "oilness" of your fingers...  To fix this,
  either  put  something between the two or clean the screen with a soft
  cloth.

  From Philippe Lebreton:
  "It  is  an  ABSOLUTE  NECESSITY  to  clean  the  marks on the display
  regularly  (or  I'm a very strange guy), it appears that the "oilness"
  can  be "acidness", at least in my case.  Because the marks on the S3a
  where  much  much  less  visible  than they where on the S3, I did not
  bother  to  clean them, and my screen is now permanently marked (I can
  feel the dent with my nail)."

  From Jochen Hollmann:
  "Some (greenish) displays have a protection film on the surface, which
  makes these displays thiker than other (grayish) displays.  To test if
  this is the case, remove the gray frame with the printed Psion logo on
  it carefully from the inner side.  This frame is actually glued on the
  display  itself.   You  should  be  able  to  sense the film.  (It was
  mounted  about  2mm  from  the  outer  boundary  of  my display.) When
  removed, put the frame back to the old place.

  You  should  wait as long as possible before you remove the protection
  film,  because  you  can  do  it  only  once  in  the lifetime of your
  display."

4.1.11 Keys rubbing off

  Unfortunately  this  was quite common with some older Series 3 and 3a.
  Actually  there  seem to be several different keyboard types, so it is
  not  predictable  if it will happen to you or not.  There is no simple
  solution  to  this problem.  If your Psion is not in warranty anymore,
  you can contact Psion PLC which offer a "cosmetic upgrade".

4.2 Known software problems & solutions

4.2.1 World phone numbers wrong

  Apparently, a number of the country codes are wrong.  You can fix this
  by  editing  the  country  information  as required, though there is a
  limited  number  of slots available in the database.  Also note that a
  complete  change  in area codes was done in the UK during 1994/5.  See
  the  Phoneday  program  at the IC or on CIX for details and a suite of
  programs to fix your databases.

4.2.2 Area codes causing problems

  The  Psion will dial all of the number you select.  In some countries,
  (not  the UK) dialling the area code for a local call causes problems.
  Psion's  recommended  fix  is  to  have  two  entries  for the party -
  specifying the number both with and without the area code.

4.2.3 Data security with link connected

  If  you  have the link switched on, then files can be copied from your
  machine  even when it is password protected.  Be sure to turn the link
  off  to remove this possibility.  Note also that the link can turn the
  Psion  on  when it is off, and will transfer data even as the password
  screen is being presented.

4.2.4 Security affected by the Macro System

  Users  of  Tom  Dolbilin's Macro System should be aware that macro key
  presses work even on a password-protected Series 3.

4.2.5 Word hangs on "busy" when saving a text file forever

  This  is  a  quite  annoying  bug which has still not been resolved by
  Psion.   Actually, it is a limitation:  the first paragraph should not
  be  bigger  than  512 characters.  Either start your file with a CR or
  make a small paragraph ;-)

4.2.6 Size limits of inbuilt programs

  The  Psion Series 3(a) have a limited memory for each process they run
  of  64Kb.   This means that the program and it's data must always stay
  below  this  limit.   Usually  you don't need to worry about this, but
  some  people have found out about it the hard way:  they couldn't save
  their  document  anymore.  There is no way around this except to split
  your big document into smaller ones.  Be extra careful with the Agenda
  program, make sure you regularly compress it to regain space.

4.2.7 Shell panics - exit 130 (from Konstantin I. Saliy)

  If you press home (Psion-left) in an empty directory, you will cause a
  shell  panic  (and  lose all your icon information, beware!).  This is
  because  "home" moves to the first file and not directory entry.  This
  bug  should  be  fixed  on  the  1/2  Mb versions.  It was found up to
  v3.22F.

4.2.8 Bug in world application (from Konstantin I. Saliy)

  It  doesn't  allow you to enter 0 (zero) as the first digit of an area
  code.

4.2.9 Bug when using proportional fonts with the OPL editor

  The  program  editor  does  not  work correctly if you set the font to
  proportional.  Be sure to always leave it monospaced!

End of part 2/5
From: [e-mail] (Daniel `HB9VBC' Pfund)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.psion,comp.sys.palmtops,comp.answers,news.answers
Subject: comp.sys.psion FAQ part 3/5
Followup-To: comp.sys.psion
Approved: [e-mail]
Summary: This article is a collection of information on the Psion
         Series 3(a) palmtop computers. It should be read by anyone
         intending to post to the comp.sys.psion newsgroup.

Archive-name: psion-faq/part3
Version: $VER: Psion FAQ v1.4 (May 1996)
Posting-Frequency: monthly
URL: http://www.bris.ac.uk/~lwmdcg/Psion/FAQ/  (FAQ repository)
     http://www.lookup.com/homepages/53994/    (My own homepage)

part 3
======

  See  part 1 for complete table of contents of this FAQ (including this
  part's).

4.3 Other official Psion repair centers

  Only one is know at the time:

  Pinnock Organiser Service (POS)
    Paul Pinnock
    25 Leigham Avenue
    Streatham, London SW16 2PR
    Phone: [phone]
    Vodafone: [phone]

  Paul  is  an  ex Psion employee and does an excellent job (reading the
  good reports he always gets on the net).

4.4 User groups

  ARPUG - Amateur Radio Psion User Group [International]
    This  is  more  of  a  mailing list than a formal group.  We discuss
    various  topics  concerning  the Psion and radio in general over the
    packet  radio  network.   Contact  me  (Daniel)  for  more  infos or
    alternatively mail me a message by packet at:  HB9VBC @ HB9IAP.

  Club Series 3 [France & International]
    Contact Alban Debeaupuis for more infos or write to:
    Club Series 3
    6 rue de Fecamp
    75012 Paris
    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]
    http://alex.union-fin.fr/usr/dcabuzel/psion/clubpsion.html

  PEAT - Psion Enthusiasts Association of Toronto [Canada]
    Email  Lloyd  Wasser  for  more  infos  or  call  him  directly  at:
    [phone]

  PSILOG [Switzerland]
    Fluelastrasse 47
    8047 Zurich
    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]

  Psion Users Group Netherlands (Psion gebruikersvereniging Nederland)
    Postbox 82
    8700 AB Bolsward
    The Netherlands
    Fax/BBS:  [phone] (upto & including 28K8, 8N1 24H)
    Sysop: Alex Brandsma

4.5 Online services

  See  also  "Connecting your Psion" elsewhere for information on how to
  connect your Psion with modems.

4.5.1 Internet

  There  is  a  Usenet group called "comp.sys.psion" in which even Psion
  employees  lurk around.  There is also the "comp.binaries.psion" group
  for  binaries.  Before posting, it is considered good practice to read
  the  messages  and get the "feel" of the group for a while (apart from
  thoroughly reading through this FAQ ;-)

  The  comp.sys.psion  group  is entirely archived at the IC FTP site in
  the packages/psion/comp.sys.psion/ directory.  The comp.binaries.psion
  group    is   archived   at   the   moderator's   direct   FTP   site:
  ftp://ftp.it.dtu.dk/pub/psion/index.html and at the IC FTP site in the
  packages/psion/comp.binaries.psion directory.

4.5.2 CIX

  Psion is also on CIX.  Check the Palmtop A forum.  There is an offline
  reader for the 3a (only) called "ReadCIX"

4.5.3 Compuserve

  There  is  a Psion discussion forum called the palmtop forum.  You can
  access  it  by typing GO PALMTOP.  There is also an offline reader for
  the 3a (only) called "ReadCIS".

4.5.4 Microsoft Network

  Who has experience here?

4.6 Bulletin boards (BBSes)

  All  numbers  are  given  in ITU format.  To dial numbers outside your
  country,  replace  the  + by your international code.  To dial numbers
  inside  your  country, replace + and the country code by your national
  dialling  code.   For  example:   UK:   for "+", dial "00", except for
  "+44"  dial  "0".  US:  for "+", dial "011", except for "+1" dial "1".
  Note  that  the  Psion  3a at least knows how to do this.  (Clive D.W.
  Feather)

  Crystal Tower     [phone] [UK]

  Dacom BBS         [phone] [UK]
    Sysop: Andrew Morrow
    Notes: Psion Dacom, updates for PCMCIA Gold Cards
    Location: Milton Keynes, UK

  Ellis BBS         [phone] [France]

  Excom BBS         [phone] [Switzerland]

  Flightpath        [phone]  or  [phone] [UK]

  Lonely Times      [phone] [Germany]
    Sysop: Marko Schuster
    300-14k4 Bds, 24hours

  Metcom BBS        [phone] [UK]

  Pacific BBS       [phone] [UK]

  Psychotic Mouse   [phone] [UK]
    Sysop: John Portwin <[e-mail]>
    Time: 9am-4pm GMT

  Psion BBS         [phone] [UK]

  Psion GmbH BBS    [phone] [Germany]
    Sysop: Matthias Hlscher
    Notes: Series3/3a software, PCMCIA Gold Card updates
    Location: Bad Homburg

  The User Group    [phone]  [UK]
    Sysop: Adam Taylor
    Notes: Privately run, but Psion UK have an account there

  LTS Datalink      [phone] [UK]
    Sysop: Francis Creese <[e-mail]>

  ??? [phone] [Belgium]

4.7 Magazines

4.7.1 Palmtop

  This is an excellent publication entirely devoted to the Psion.  It is
  called (quite rightly IMHO):  "Palmtop, _the_ journal for Psion series
  3  and  3a  users".   It  is  an independant magazine in the B5 format
  running 64 pages (minimum) bimonthly.  It is run by only one person in
  his  spare  time,  thus  it  doesn't  print  on  regular  dates.  This
  situation  should  be  getting better soon, but for the moment, expect
  some  delay.   Only  available by subscription, credit cards accepted.
  For more info contact (see also his Email address):

    Steve Clack
    25 Avocet Way
    Bicester
    Oxon OX6 0YN
    England
    Phone: [phone]

4.7.2 PDADevelopers

  As the title says, this is a magazine clearly devoted to developers on
  Personnal  Digital  Assistants (PDAs).  This is a general denomination
  and covers a wide range of machines, amongst which the Psion (although
  this  could  be arguable...).  It can get quite technical at times but
  always  very instructive with loads of examples and source code.  Only
  problem:   being an american magazine & Psion not being too well known
  over  there,  it tends to get quite thin on Psion articles.  Published
  bimonthly.  For more info, contact:

    PDADevelopers
    293 Corbett Avenue
    San Francisco, CA 94114
    USA
    Phone: [phone]
      Fax: [phone]

4.7.3 Mobilis: The Mobile Computing Lifestyle Magazine (by Jason Savage)

  This  on-line webzine found on the World-Wide Web is devoted mainly to
  all  palmtops  and  PDAs currently on the market including the beloved
  Psion  series 3.  Like PDA Developers, the Psion specific articles are
  sparse  but  having  Steve Clack on staff as the European Correspodent
  and  Psion  Editor should ensure a steady flow of articles and best of
  all  the  magazine is free.  (Well almost free.  You still have to pay
  your  service provider for connection time while you read it on-line).
  Mobilis can be reached at: http://www.volksware.com/mobilis/

4.8 "Anti-thief" tips

  There's  nothing you can do against your Psion being stolen...  on the
  other hand, you can increase your chances of finding it again.  It has
  been  suggested  to  put  a warning message of the like "$$$ REWARD if
  found - useless without password $$$" in the owner info.  Not strictly
  true,  but  you never know.  If you don't want to type a password each
  time  you use your Psion, you should get PasOn from Andrew Lord.  This
  excellent  utility  turns  the password feature on at the time you set
  (usually  in  the night) and only asks for the password the first time
  you use your Psion the next day.


5. SHAREWARE & FREEWARE
=======================
5.1 Relevant FTP sites

5.1.1 Imperial College

  The  first  biggest  Internet  Psion  archive  started  in  the UK, at
  Imperial  College  (IC): <ftp://src.doc.ic.ac.uk>.  The relevant files
  are under /packages/psion/icdoc.  You can also reach this site through
  your WWW browser at:  http://src.doc.ic.ac.uk/packages/psion/icdoc/

  The archive is administered by Lee McLoughlin <[e-mail]>

  There is a mirror of IC for the USA at: <ftp://ftp.phone.net>.

5.1.2 Frontiernet

  IC being a little slow to get updated (see later), in November 1995, a
  new  site  has  come  to  life  with  the help of Steve Litchfield who
  generously  donated  a  complete  set  of  his  3-Lib  library.  It is
  reachable  at:   <ftp://ftp.frontiernet.net/pub/psion>.   The  site is
  being maintained by Fric <[e-mail]>.

  The  site  is  located in Rochester, NY, USA (GMT-5).  This makes it a
  lot  harder to reach than IC and transfer rates are *a lot* slower for
  Europeans.   It also has a very low anonymous users limit (IMHO) which
  can  get  quite  annoying at times (although the limit should raise to
  100   users   in  the  near  future...),  but  well,  you  can't  have
  everything...

  Finally,  there  is  also  another  known  site  which  has some Psion
  software:  <ftp://ftp.uni-erlangen.de/pub/psion3/> [131.188.2.43]

5.2 How can I upload my software to IC?

  You have to FTP it into the incoming directory and mail Lee McLoughlin
  a  note  about  your  program  and a one line description.  He will be
  transfering your program to the relevent directory *manually*.

**NOTE** This  has  apparently changed.  I haven't received confirmation
         from Lee though.

5.3 I've uploaded my software to IC, but it still doesn't appear, why?

  The  problem  is that although Lee is a very nice person, he is also a
  very busy one.  Don't forget that he does this in his spare time, thus
  it is not high on his priority list!  All you can do is be patient...

**NOTE** This  has  apparently changed.  I haven't received confirmation
         from Lee though.

5.4 How can I upload my software to Frontiernet?

  Place   your   software  in  the  /incoming  directory  with  a  short
  accompanying description.  Fric should take care of it fairly quickly.

5.5 WWW internet sites

  A  lot of personal Psion pages (as opposed to the official Psion page)
  have appeared on the World Wide Web and the number seems to be growing
  from  day  to day!  Fortunately for all of us, there is Mark Gould who
  maintains the most complete and actual web page of all at:

  http://www.bris.ac.uk/~lwmdcg/Psion/

  Another  site  of  great interest to programmers are the ever changing
  Psionic files which document most OS Services (INTs) at:

  http://www.gold.net/~cdwf/psion/psionics

  I  also  maintain  a  list of Psion programmers on the web with direct
  links  to  their homepages.  You can find all (hopefully!) programmers
  homepage URLs linked at:

  http://www.lookup.com/homepages/53994/prgers.htm

5.6 Shareware for those without online access

  Steve Litchfield runs a shareware library in the UK:

  3-Lib
  Shareware for the Series 3 and Series 3a
  SAE for catalogue to:

    22 Grays Crescent,
    Woodley,
    Berks,
    RG5 3EN,
    England

  Phone: [phone]
  Email: [e-mail] OR Compuserve: 100640,107
  http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/slitchfield/

  From Steve himself:

    "3-Lib  tries  to  be  *the*  clearing-house for new PD & shareware!
     Authors  can  send programs in to me and I'll act as the definitive
     source  for  others  to  get  new versions etc from, in addition to
     uploading  to Compuserve, CIX, and sending floppies of new stuff to
     src.doc  and  some BBS systems etc.  Although set up originally for
     people  who  have no access to modems, PCs etc, 3-Lib can be useful
     for  those  who  are  on  the  net  and would like large amounts of
     shareware on floppy disk very cheaply!"

  Alternatively,  you can send him 4 HD (1.44Mb) disks and 11 UKP with a
  return envelope (and stamp/IRC) to receive the best of the library.


6. CONNECTING YOUR PSION
========================
6.1 With an IBM or clone

6.1.1 PsiWin (by Mark Gould)

  PsiWin  is  a  package  for  PCs running Microsoft Windows (in all its
  current  incarnations  -  3.1,  3.11,  for Workgroups, NT and 95).  It
  allows the Psion 3a (or 3 - although this is slightly more limited) to
  be  connected  to  the  PC  and  for the filesystem of the Psion to be
  manipulated  in  exactly  the  same  way  as  in Windows File Manager.
  Drag-and-drop  copying  is  possible,  as  well as conversion of files
  between   Psion  app  formats  and  Windows  program  formats  (Agenda
  conversion  is only possible from the 3a format).  It is also possible
  for  3a  users  to  use  the  True-Type  fonts resident on the Windows
  machine when printing.  Finally, there is a Windows version of Psion's
  built-in  Database  application.   PsiWin  normally  comes with the PC
  3-Link.

6.1.1.2 What if I don't have Windows?

  The  standard  software  for  connecting  to  DOS  machines,  RCOM, is
  included  with PsiWin.  There may also be some RCOM packages available
  in  stores  for  those who don't want to buy PsiWin at all.  See later
  for other platforms.

6.1.1.3 What if I already have a 3-Link cable?

  It  is  possible  to buy PsiWin without also purchasing the 3link.  It
  should  be  available  in stores, but if all else fails, contact Psion
  directly.   If  you  bought  your 3-Link cable just before PsiWin came
  out, you might even be entitled to a free copy (contact Psion)!

6.1.1.4 What conversions will PsiWin do?

  The following file types are currently supported:

    Psion Agenda conversions to and from:
        Lotus Organizer v.1.0
        Act! v.2.0
        Schedule Plus

    Psion Data conversions to and from:
        dBase III and IV
        FoxPro
        Lotus Organizer 1.0
        Comma separated values
        Tab separated text

    Psion PIC format to and from:
        Windows RGB Bitmap

    Psion Record (.WVE) to and from:
        Windows sound (.WAV)

    Psion Sheet to and from:
        Quattro Pro for Windows
        Works for Windows spreadsheet
        Lotus 123 (.WK1 and .WK3)
        Excel 4.0 and 5.0

    Psion Word to and from:
        Text (Windows ANSI and codepage 850)
        Rich Text Format
        Word Perfect 5.1, 5.2 and 6.0
        Works for Windows WP 3.0
        Word for Windows 2.0 and 6.0
        Ami Pro 3.0

6.1.1.5 I can't run the Psion Manager - it produces a General Protection
        Fault.  What's the matter with it?

  Early  PsiWin  boxes  did not indicate that the minimum requirement to
  run  PsiWin  was 4Mb RAM.  Attempting to run it on a machine with less
  than  this  will  cause  a  GPF.   The  boxes  now  give  the  correct
  information.

  Alternatively,  it may be the case that you are not running Windows in
  enhanced  mode.  This is necessary.  Some laptops don't run Windows in
  enhanced  mode  by  default.   In  order to enable enhanced mode, type
  "win /3" at the DOS prompt.

6.1.1.6 Why is there no conversion for Schedule+ in Windows NT?

  Because Psion have not written it yet.

6.1.1.7 Why is there no conversion for Schedule v.7?

  Because Microsoft have not released its format yet.

6.1.1.8 How  do I convert Psion files to a format which is not supported
        by PsiWin?

  PsiWin  is designed to allow third-party developers to write their own
  translators  for  integration  into  the  package.  There is a program
  called pwaddon.zip available on CIX for this purpose.  It will be made
  available more generally soon.

6.1.1.9 Why is there no Windows version of the Agenda?

  Perhaps the most requested addition to the PsiWin package is a Windows
  version  of  the  Agenda, for those who do not have a diary program on
  their  PCs  (or  who  do not trust the conversion process).  Psion say
  they  decided  not to include such a program for a variety of reasons.
  The  justification for including the Windows Database Manager was that
  people could take advantage of the larger keyboard and screen of their
  PCs  to  enter  large  amounts of data.  This was not thought to be an
  issue  for  Agenda  users.   Simply,  Psion  had  to  make a number of
  choices,  and  in their judgment a Windows Agenda was a lower priority
  than other things.

  From Matthew Powell <[e-mail]>:

  RS  Components  (tel.   [phone]  in the UK) used to advertise an
  Agenda program "compatible with the Psion" for Windows.  They included
  a  screenshot and it looked pretty horrible.  Anyone who has access to
  their  catalogue  could  look  for it - it was on the same page as the
  Psions.

6.1.1.10 Why can't I access the PC drives from the Psion?

  This  is a problem for those who use the option in Agenda to tidy to a
  file  on  a  remote PC (amongst others).  The answer is hidden away in
  the help file, which says the following:

    If  you  want to access PC drives from your Psion (they will appear,
    in  dialogs,  with  "REM::"  before  their  drive  letter), edit the
    PSIONPRC.INI  file  in your "Windows" directory, and remove the "-x"
    from the end of the following line:

    engine=prcenwin.exe -x

6.1.1.11 I'm  having  difficulty  printing  from  my Psion through Psion
         Print.  What's wrong with it?

  On  some  setups using early versions of PsiWin, it wasn't possible to
  print  to  certain  network  printers,  or  just  the  first page of a
  document  was  printed.   Psion  released  a  file  to fix this called
  pp_fix2.zip,  which  is  available on CIX and Compuserve as well as at
  the   site   maintained   by   the  moderator  of  comp.binaries.psion
  (<ftp://ftp.id.dtu.dk/pub/psion/index.html>)  - this site has the file
  as  it  was posted to comp.binaries.psion, in five parts.  Frontiernet
  also has a copy of this file in the pub/psion/addon directory.

6.1.1.12 Why can't I reconnect to the Psion once I have disconnected it?
         (by Angus Rae)

  I posted a comment about a problem I was having with PsiWin locking up
  my  machine.   I  had  originally  blamed  it on my video card (it's a
  Diamond  Stealth  32,  and the usual mantra is "if it's named after an
  aircraft  or  a  snake  it's  probably  causing  the crash") but after
  WinLink3   gave   me  the  same  problems  I  started  wondering,  and
  remembering  some  problems  I was having with Trumpet Winsock a while
  back.

  So, a quick trawl through Microsoft's Knowledge Base revealed that the
  serial  port  drivers  for  Windows  for  Workgroups have a few little
  problems.   (A  few  big problems IMHO, but your mileage may vary.) It
  seems  to  apply  to machines with higher specification 16550 UARTs on
  local buses.  I have 16550AF UARTs on a VESA local bus.

  There  is a fix; replace the file SERIAL.386 with a different version.
  I  believe,  but don't quote me on this, that the version from Windows
  3.1  would  do, but the file WG1001.EXE in the Microsoft SoftLib has a
  copy     which     works,     which    you    can    get    to    from
  http://www.microsoft.com/  If you do a search in the Windows Knowledge
  base for WG1001 and appnote you can get the full info.

6.1.1.13 My   conversions  from  Agenda  to  Lotus  Organiser  cause  an
         Application error.  What is wrong?

  It  has  been  suggested that one source of such problems is an out of
  date  copy  of  a  file  called  ctl3dv2.dll.  A nice man at Psion has
  suggested the following approach:

  Currently   we  sneak  a  bonus  copy  of  ctl3dv2.dll  onto  disk  1,
  uncompressed,  for  just  this scenario, but it's not on all versions.
  If  you  don't  have  it,  then I guess the best thing is to close all
  Windows  apps,  rename  your  current ctl3dv2.dll out of the way, then
  reinstall PsiWin and see if that solves it.

  If  it  *doesn't*,  then  I'm  afraid  it's going to come down to some
  fairly standard testing to narrow it down -

    - what  if  you  use  different  date  ranges  or entry types on the
      "Convert what" dialog (though it sounds unlikely to me)

    - do Database conversions work (as they use a similar "convert what"
      system)

    - do your Organizer and Lotus INI files look OK in \windows

    - does it happen with nothing else running in Windows

    - can you change anything about the setup (eg try it on another PC)

  If none of these work, then check the answer to question 6.1.1.12.

6.1.1.14 I have another problem with PsiWin

  Many  problems  with  PsiWin  are  caused by having 32-bit file access
  enabled.   Try disabling this (in the Control Panel, Enhanced, Virtual
  Memory).   If  the  problem  recurs,  try asking in comp.sys.psion (or
  Psion Technical Support).

6.1.1.15 Serial port tip (from Mike Dolan)

  Under  the  Lose95 Control Panel, check the COM port settings.  Ensure
  that  if  you  have 16550 FIFO buffers, the receive buffers are set to
  maximum, and the transmit buffers are set to minimum.

6.1.2 MCLink

  MCLINK  was  the  software  which comes with Psion's 3-Link cable.  It
  runs  on  the  host  PC  (at  the  DOS  prompt) or Mac to provide data
  transfer capability.  When MCLINK is running on the PC/Mac, the Series
  3  can  see  host  drives as remote drives, and can access the data on
  them.   Similarly  the  command interface in the MCLINK program can be
  used  to  access or copy data to/from the Series3.  MCLINK can also be
  used  to  print  Series  3 data by copying it to REM::C:\LPT1.  MCLINK
  works  under  OS/2 and under the DOS emulator with Linux (Free Unix on
  PC).   It  had reliability problems under Windows for Workgroups 3.11.
  It supports only COM1 and COM2 ports.

6.1.3 SLink

  SLINK is a cut-down version of MCLINK, provided by Psion.  It may work
  in  non-standard  configurations  where  MCLINK will not.  Since it is
  smaller, it may cure space problems.

6.1.4 RCom

  Was  Psion's  replacement  for  MCLINK.   It  is  available  at the IC
  archive.  It provides all the capability of MCLINK and adds a range of
  other features, including  handling of Rich Text format files; backup,
  compress  and  equalize functions, a large range of DOS-like commands,
  from  which scripts can be generated, and a Windows interface.  Though
  it's   documentation   claims  that  RCOM  is  "more  like  a  network
  connection",  this  is  not  yet  a  reasonable  claim.   When RCOM is
  running,  the  host  machine  can  only  see the Series 3 via the RCOM
  interface.

6.1.5 RFM

  RFM  is  also  available  from  the  archive  (RFM110);  it is in beta
  release.   RFM  installs a TSR on the host PC; a small process is also
  run  on  the  Series  3.   When  set up, the system makes the Series 3
  drives  look  completely  like  PC  drives,  and  vice versa.  PC file
  management  tools  can  be  used  with great convenience to manipulate
  files  on  both  machines  transparently.   RFM cannot be installed or
  removed under Windows, but will run under Windows.  RFM will lock your
  machine  up  occassionally;  in  this  case,  turn the link off at the
  Series  3.  Rest the PC after the link icon disappears from the Series
  3, or you may need to reset both machines.

  From Roman Habrat:
  It  is  possible to install, use and uninstall RFM under Windows.  Two
  things need to be done:

    - use  DOS  SETVER  ("setver  rfm.exe  6.20") to set the DOS version
      number reported to RFM (required for Win 95 only since it uses DOS
      7.0)

    - prevent  RFM  from  detecting Windows (For Win95: check the option
      in:DOS session Properties ->
         -> Program ->
           -> Advanced ->
             -> "Prevent MS-DOS-based program from detecting Windows")

6.2 With an Amiga

  For  a  long  time,  Amiga  users had to resort to using the X/Y-Modem
  protocols  to transfer files back and forth with their Psions...  that
  was  before  Oliver  Wagner  gratified  us  with  his  great  program:
  AmigaNCP.   To  be  able  to  use  this  program, you will need the PC
  version  of  the  cable (3-Link) which connects to your standard RS232
  serial  port  of your Amiga.  You cannot buy the PC 3-Link without the
  PC  software  anymore  (PsiWin)  but you can use an Acorn 3-Link cable
  which is exactly the same and should cost less than the PC version.

  AmigaNCP  fully implements Psion's NCP protocol and thus allows you to
  see  your  Psion as a remote drive of your Amiga and vice versa!  File
  transfers are now as easy as drag and drop.  The program also contains
  a simple text transfer mode which allows you to directly convert Psion
  ASCII  files  to  Amiga/UNIX  type; it supports multi-serial cards and
  needs  WB  2.0+.   AmigaNCP is shareware and available from the IC FTP
  site  or  any Aminet site in the comm/misc directory.  There is also a
  WWW  site  devoted  to  AmigaNCP  where  you can always get the latest
  version and read more about it:
  http://wade1.ab.umd.edu/support/AmigaNCP/

  This is definitively a must for all Amiga users!

6.2.1 Graphics support on the Amiga

  There  is a progam called "ViewPic" (by Marko Schuster) written in GFA
  basic  and  available  on any Aminet site.  It supports black and grey
  and  even  works  with the stone age WB 1.3!  Doesn't support multiple
  pictures in a single file.

6.3 With a UNIX machine (by Edwin Klement)

  Using  the  Psion's  3-Link  cable data transfer between a Psion and a
  UNIX  workstation  can be provided in several ways.  One way is to use
  NFS  capabilities to mount the Psion only to the workstation, where it
  is  attached  to via the serial cable.  This is an easy way to capture
  filesystem   operations  (e.g,  change  directory,  list  contents  of
  directory,  move  and copy files) in a program.  All the UNIX commands
  can  be  used  on  the PSION file system.  Supported architectures are
  SunOS 4.1.3, HPUX 9.0.x, Linux, AIX 3.2, Solaris 2.3/2.4, and SGI IRIX
  5.3. The program is called p3nfs.

  There  is another proprietary program for Sun workstations that allows
  transfer  of  files  and  a limited number of file operations over the
  serial  cable.   It uses a proprietary protocol and has a command line
  interface.   There  is a facility for automatically filtering files, a
  backup  utility  and  a  mechanism  for supporting scripts to automate
  frequently used operations.

  David MacKay <[e-mail]> has written an article concerning
  his experience with hooking a psion up to a workstation.  It's located
  at: http://wol.ra.phy.cam.ac.uk/mackay/psion/psion.html

6.4 With  a Macintosh (information taken from Paul DuBois' WWW site, see
    last question for address)

  You will need the Mac version of the 3-Link cable.  This is almost the
  same  as  the  PC  version,  only  the  plug  which goes into your Mac
  changes; you can even make an adapter yourself if you already have the
  PC  version.   For the software, you need "Psion Link" or "MCLink" for
  Macintosh.  Both come with the Mac 3-Link cable.

6.4.1 Psion Link

  Psion  Link  allows  you  to  see  Psion  disks from the Macintosh and
  transfer  files  between  machines  using drag and drop.  (You do this
  within  Psion  Link's windows; the Psion doesn't appear as a volume on
  the desktop.) It runs on any Macintosh with System 6.0 or later.

6.4.2 MCLink

  MCLink  allows you to see Macintosh disks from the Psion, so that they
  become,  in effect, part of the Psion file system.  You use Psion file
  operations  to  access Macintosh files.  MCLink is described in the "3
  Link  (RS232)" manual.  There are also some documentation files on the
  MCLink   disk.    The  current  version  is  1.41F.   MCLink  runs  on
  Macintoshes  with  System 6.0 or later.  (Some earlier versions, e.g.,
  1.20, do not run under System 7.)

6.4.3 Choosing and Using a Macintosh Port

  There  are  two kinds of serial ports on a Macintosh, distinguished by
  the icons with which they are labeled:

    -A phone handset icon indicates a modem (or phone) port.
    -A printer icon indicates a printer (or AppleTalk) port.

  Some  Macintoshes  have a combined modem/printer port (e.g., Duos, and
  the  500  and 5300 series of PowerBooks).  Such ports are labeled with
  both icons.

  Both Psion Link or MCLink allow you to select which port you want.  If
  you have a combination modem/printer port, you need to tell Psion Link
  or MCLink to use the modem port, not the printer port.

  To establish successful communications, the Macintosh port you want to
  use  must  not  be  in  use  by something else -- make sure you're not
  running  any software that wants to control that port; especially make
  sure AppleTalk is off if you use the printer port!

6.4.4 Connecting

    -Make sure the Psion is turned off and plug in the 3Link cable.  The
     cable  connectors on the ends of the Macintosh adapter are similar,
     but if you look closely you'll see that they're different.  The end
     with  the  "crossbar" inside the connector goes into the 3Link pod;
     the other end goes into your Macintosh.
    -Turn  on  the  Psion  and  enable the link (Psion-L from the System
     screen).
    -Launch  the  Macintosh  communications  application  (Psion Link or
     MCLink).    Psion   Link   plays  a  chime  when  a  connection  is
     established.   If  you  hear  a short "plink" sound, the connection
     failed.   MCLink  doesn't make any sound but its status window says
     "Link Established" when it detects a connection.
    -Perform whatever data transfer you have in mind.
    -Quit the Macintosh communications application.
    -Disable the link from the Psion System screen.
    -Turn the Psion off and unplug the 3Link cable.

  If  you  do the steps in some other order, you may get an unresponsive
  machine.   For  instance, if you plug the link cable into your printer
  port,  enable  the  link  on the Psion, and then turn off AppleTalk on
  your Macintosh, you may have to reboot the Macintosh before Psion Link
  or MCLink will establish a connection properly.

6.4.5 What file conversions do Psion Link and MCLink do?

  Essentially none.

  Psion  Link recognizes certain files as "text" if their names end with
  any  of  a  given  set  of suffixes (e.g., ".txt").  For such files it
  converts  line  ending  characters  to whatever is appropriate for the
  destination machine (CRLF for Psion, CR for Macintosh).

  In   general,   to   transfer  a  file  between  Psion  and  Macintosh
  applications,  the  file  must be saved in a format understood on both
  machines (RTF for Word is an example).

  An  exception though:  recent versions of GraphicConverter (shareware)
  will  open and convert Psion PIC files.  It's available from the usual
  Mac shareware sites (info-mac and its mirrors, for example).

6.4.6 Other questions

  You can find more info on the web at:
  http://www.primate.wisc.edu/people/dubois/psion/psion-mac.html

6.5 With an Atari (by Daron Brewood)

6.5.1 General.

The Psion palmtop  computers can  be connected  to all  Atari ST  compatable
computers ; from the Atari 520ST to the TT and Falcon models.

6.5.2 Linkage Hardware Required.

The 3-Link (PC)  serial lead will  be needed to  connect the Psion's  serial
port to the 25-pin  serial connector on  the back of  the Atari machine.  No
other additional hardware is needed.

6.5.3 Port Speed.

It should be  noted that the  basic unmodified ST  computer can only  handle
baud rates of 9600bps, wheras the STe/TT/Falcon computers can communicate at
the Psion's maximum speed of 19200bps.

6.5.4 Software available for interfacing the two computers.

There are two main packages designed to interface the Atari computers to the
Psion series 3/3a, these are:

6.5.4.1   S3-ST v2.00 by Keith Baines.

An extract from his documentation file can be found below:
 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

                         S3-ST Version 2.00
                         ==================

                 File Transfer and Utilities Program


        Copyright (c) Keith Baines, March 1993 - August 1995
_____________________________________________________________________

S3-ST provides a graphical file-manager with features familiar from
the Atari GEM desktop. You can use it to:

  -   Copy files from the Atari to the Psion and vice-versa;

  -   Make regular full and incremental backups of your Psion;

  -   View files on either machine in a scrollable window on the
      Atari screen;

  -   Print files on either machine using a printer connected to the
      Atari's printer port;

  -   Delete files on either machine;

  -   Create new folders (or sub-directories) on either machine.

S3-ST uses a small companion program, STCOMMS.OPA, which can be
installed as an application on the Series 3 or 3a. (The Series 3a
version uses the enhanced facilities of that model.) The Psion
3-Link(PC) hardware is required.

In addition, the package includes DBFVIEW, a Desk Accessory for the
Atari (there is also a normal program version), which can be used to
browse through files created with the Series 3/3a Data application
and to copy information from them via the GEM clipboard.  For
example it can be used to copy names and addresses into a word
processor document on your ST.
 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Keith can be contacted at the following address:
Keith Baines, 8 Lumley Court, Denmark Avenue, London, SW19 4HQ, UK

6.5.4.2    TRAFIC version 2.2 - ¬1995, Club Psion Series 3

This program  is  keyware and  will  not allow  files  to be  copied  across
machines without  the software  first being  activated by  a user  key.  The
interface seems very much like 'Kobold' and '2in1' on the Atari's.

I can say little about it's features due to the documentation provided
with it being written in French.  However the authors can be contacted
via the Club Series 3 (see "User Groups") attn: Laurent PLOMB.

6.5.5 Support for the Psion machines in the Atari world.

Network ST (NeST), the worlds largest fidonet(tm) technology network in  the
world (for Atarians) supports the Psion via:

- An Internet gateway to the COMP.SYS.PSION newsgroup via the
  U.COMP.SYS.PSION message echo.

- An Internet gateway to the COMP.BINARIES.PSION newsgroup via the
  U.COMP.BINARIES.PSION message echo.

- Support within the N.MISC.PALMTOPS message echo.

- Distribution of files into the Atari file networks via the 90.SUP.PSION
  file echo.

- Archive storage of Psion files (available by ftn file request only) at
  90:90/[e-mail].

For further information  concerning NeST (Network  ST) please contact  Daron
Brewood via:

Email:   NeST: 90:90/[e-mail]
               90:1/[e-mail]
               90:100/[e-mail]
               90:100/[e-mail]
               90:100/[e-mail] (preferred address)

          CIX: dbrewood

     InterNet: [e-mail]
               [e-mail]

SnailMail:     Daron M. Brewood, 7 Crescent Road, Portwood, Stockport,
               Cheshire, SK1 2QG.

6.5.6 Graphics Support on the Atari.

There is no current program on the Atari computers which can create or  view
.PIC files from the  Psion, but there  is a program to  use to convert  true
colour JPG, and 256 colour GIF files, into .GIF's that take little space  on
the Psion. This is GEM-View by Dieter Fiebelkorn, and is highly  recommended
as it  will quickly  dither any  picture  through at  it, and  if  steinberb
dithering is used the end result is a very small 2-30k .GIF file, that  will
convert perfectly on the Psion to  give a minimum sized clear picture.  Very
useful if you wish to carry family  photo's round with you on the Psion,  or
to carry round proof graphic outlays.

End of part 3/5
From: [e-mail] (Daniel `HB9VBC' Pfund)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.psion,comp.sys.palmtops,comp.answers,news.answers
Subject: comp.sys.psion FAQ part 4/5
Followup-To: comp.sys.psion
Approved: [e-mail]
Summary: This article is a collection of information on the Psion
         Series 3(a) palmtop computers. It should be read by anyone
         intending to post to the comp.sys.psion newsgroup.

Archive-name: psion-faq/part4
Version: $VER: Psion FAQ v1.4 (May 1996)
Posting-Frequency: monthly
URL: http://www.bris.ac.uk/~lwmdcg/Psion/FAQ/  (FAQ repository)
     http://www.lookup.com/homepages/53994/    (My own homepage)

part 4
======

  See  part 1 for complete table of contents of this FAQ (including this
  part's).

6.6 With an Acorn Archimedes or Risc PC (by Nick Craig-Wood)

6.6.1 ALink from Acorn

  This  is  a  package  including the equivalent of the 3-Link for Acorn
  machines, the A-Link and some software to run on the Acorn.

  The  software  runs as a filing system on the Acorn machine and allows
  you  to use the Psion just as if it was a (rather slow) hard disc.  It
  does not allow the Psion to look at the Acorn drives though.

  It  comes  with a set of conversion applications for Spreadsheet, Data
  and Word files into native Acorn and generic (eg CSV) formate.

6.6.2 PC programs

  All  of  the  available  PC programs can be used under the hardware or
  software  PC  emulators  provided  you  can run the correct version of
  Windows or DOS that these programs rely on.

  Note  that  the  A-Link has a slightly different wiring to the 3-Link.
  The A-Link will work fine with the PC software, and plugged into a PC,
  but  the  3-Link  will  not work with the Acorn software.  All that is
  different is the wiring from the 'soap' to the 9-way D-Type connector.

6.6.3 3Link-Acorn cable (by Toby Smith)

        Cable wiring for 3link to Acorn
        (make up of Alink cable).

        PC Connector        Acorn connector
        (9pin male)          (9pin female)
        DCD 1 (not used)         1--|
        RxD 2--------------------2  |
        TxD 3--------------------3  |
        DTR 4--------------------4--|
        GND 5--------------------5
        DSR 6-----\ /------------6
        RTS 7------X-------------7
        CTS 8-----/ \------------8
        RT  9 (not used)         9

        (8 and 6 swapped, 1 & 4 connected at Acorn end)
        (With thanks to Jonathan Allin of Acorn)

  No conversion is needed for using an A-Link on a PC (apparently)

6.7 With a modem

  Psion  provide  3FAX, which is a hardware and software add-on offering
  FAX  capability  and a data modem operating at 2400 baud.

  A  separate  shareware  fax program has been released by Walter Wright
  which should work with all class 2/2.0 fax-modems.

  The  3-Link  cable/software offers a standard serial interface through
  which  standard modems can be connected, transferring (serially) up to
  the Series 3a limit of 19.2K (9.6K for the Series3).

  Keep  in mind that if you want to use a modem with a higher speed than
  the  serial  limit (19k2), you might get buffer overflows.  No one has
  reported  any  experiences  yet.   If you got such a system working, I
  would like to hear from you (and I'm sure the others as well ;-) .

  Paraphrasing "Lord John" - [e-mail]:

  The  Serial 3link cable is a null modem connection, with a male 25 way
  end.   To work with a modem, you need to "un-null" the modem wires, so
  you  have  a  straight through link.  The wiring of the plug is below.
  Note  that  pin  8  is  not just "in the air", but connected to pin 6.
  Choose plugs with whatever gender you need.

                           2 ------------- 3
                           3 ------------- 2
                           4 ------------- 5
                           5 ------------- 4
                           6 -+----------- 20
                           8 -+
                          20 -----------+- 6
                                        +- 8
                           7 ------------- 7

  The  harder  part  is  correctly  configuring the modem; each modem is
  different.   You  need  to  configure the modem and the Series 3/3a to
  handshake on RTS/CTS.  I do not use Xon and Xoff for flow control with
  the  modem;  these  characters  are  passed  through  to  whatever  is
  connected  to the modem.  Using this configuration, I can consistently
  operate the link at full speed with no problems.

  Also  of  interest,  Klaus @ [e-mail] notes:  The Psion Modem
  Adapter (cable), Partnumber 055856, is wired like this:

     Pin name    Pin number  Color of   Direction          DB-25
                  Mini-Din     wire     Series3 - Other
      DCD             1        red      <-------------     8
      RD              2        white    <-------------     3
      TD              3        black    ------------->     2
      DTR             4        x        ------------->     20
      SG              5        blue     --------------     7
      DSR             6        x        <-------------     6
      RTS             7        brown    ------------->     4
      CTS             8        grey     <-------------     5
      RI              9        orange   <-------------     22
      FG            shield     -        --------------     1

  The  Mini-Din  connector  pins are numbered as follows (as viewed from
  the wire side):

    9       8   7
    6   5   4   3
        2   1

6.8 With a packet radio TNC

  If  you  want  to  work packet radio mobile/remote, your Psion will be
  just  great  because  of it's small size.  Adding a TNC (Terminal Node
  Controller) is just like adding a modem actually (that's what TNCs are
  in  the first place!), so make the "un-null" cable first (as described
  in  the modem section).  Be sure to have a full cable with the CTS/RTS
  lines and set XFLOW OFF on your TNC as you should preferably use these
  hardware  lines instead of software XON/XOFF codes.  As for a specific
  packet     program,     you're     in     luck:     Roger    Muggleton
  (G0HZK@GB7WIR  on  packet)  made  a nice program called Pocket Packet.
  The  program  is  available  from the usual FTP sites or directly from
  Roger's homepage (see WWW section).  Now if someone could just write a
  little  BayCom  driver  program...which I personally doubt is feasible
  but you may never know!

  For  more  information  concerning  packet  radio and amateur radio in
  general,  I would recommend you the "rec.amateur.radio.xxx" newsgroups
  from Usenet.

6.9 With a cellular phone

  Psion  have released the "Telenote" program and cable which allows you
  to send and receive SMS messages with a Nokia 21xx cellular phone.

  If  you want to use your cellular phone as a modem or a fax modem, you
  need to get the data expander and PC card for it from Nokia directly.

6.10 Terminal emulation

  The  3-link  cable software includes a dumb terminal emulation.  VT100
  emulators are also available.  There are some at the IC archive:

  vt122.zip VT100 emulator from Psion GmbH
  vt100v2a.zip VT100 emulator from Widget http://www.widget.co.uk
  (these are crippled versions of commercial products).

  p3nfs  for  Unix  is apparently capable of VT220 and is released under
  the GNU general public license.

  There are also free/shareware/commercial alternatives:
  FreeVT (File: FreeVTxx.zip)
  PComm (commercial; Psion)

6.11 TCP/IP stack

  The  official  Psion  TCP/IP  stack should be available current summer
  1996.


7. THE EMULATOR
===============
  Psion,  in  their great generosity, have released their Psion emulator
  for  the  Series  3  and  later  on  for  the Series 3a.  This is a PC
  product.   Also  please  note  that  it is completely *unsupported* by
  Psion and do not ask them for new versions, other platforms, etc...  I
  think  that  it  was  quite  nice  of  them  to offer their users (and
  potential users) such a nice tool.  We wouldn't want it to stop, would
  we?   The  files  are  available  as  usual  in  the IC archive in the
  development directory.

7.1 Limitations & bugs

  The following limitations & bugs were reported:

    -The  keyboard  is  only  "British"  and doesn't accept your regular
     keyboard  map  (either  use  one of the techniques described in the
     "Can  I  change  the  keyboard?"  section  or  see below for a more
     permanent way around this problem);

    -No sound;

    -The  system  screen "loses" your configuration each time you launch
     the  emulator;

    -It only works in DOS with 4Mb RAM and at least a 386 processor;

    -Caps lock works but doesn't show the symbol like on a real Psion;

    -Shift diamond key doesn't work;

    -It  doesn't accept direct keyboard scan codes - this is mostly used
     in games.

7.2 Tips & tricks

    -Alt+Ctrl+shift+S   makes   a   screen  snapshot  and  automatically
     increases the screen number in the file (unlike the real Psion);

    -Alt+Ctrl+shift+C   shows   some   memory   parameters  (useful  for
     development);

    -Ins key on the numeric keypad (0 key) switches between applications
     like Shift-System button on the real Psion;

    -If  you  replace  the 480 by 160 in the "HHSERV.PAR" file by 640 by
     480, you will get a complete screen on your PC.

7.3 Changing permanently the keyboard mapping (by Uwe Kallmeyer)

  The  keyboard map is held internally in the file "EPOC.DLL".  You must
  thus  patch  this  file  to suit your own keyboard.  It contains three
  tables,  one  for  Psion/Ctrl  keys,  one for shifted keys and one for
  normal  keys.   These  tables  start  at locations (for the file dated
  4.12.94, size 94736):
                        Psion/Ctrl     $35D8
                        Shift          $33D8
                        Normal         $32D8


8. PROGRAMMING
==============
8.1 Overview of development possibilities

  There are a number of ways in which you can program the Psion.  Choose
  the one which fits your abilities, requirements, and budget.

8.2 OPL programming directly on the Psion

  This  is  the  most straightforward.  If you can live with the cramped
  keyboard  and  screen,  you  can  pursue  this  option with no further
  outlay, anywhere you can take your Psion.

  If you haven't got the OPL Programming Manual, I suggest you order it.
  It's really a great manual (unlike most others I've seen).  If you are
  impatient   to   receive   it,   it's   also   available   online  at:
  http://www.primate.wisc.edu/people/dubois/psion/oplman/

  Some alleviators:
  1)A database of the OPL commands is available from the IC archive (see
    section 5) which you can load into the built-in DATA application.

  2)Switching  off the clock in the OPL editor will give you more active
    screen width.  CONTROL/menu toggles this.

  3)CONTROL/Word  takes  you  straight to the OPL editor from the system
    screen.

  4)Get  OPP from Andy Clarkson.  This is really *the* programmer's tool
    for  programming  directly  on  the  Psion.   It  allows you to have
    exactly  the  same functionnalities as with Psion's S3ATRAN and even
    more directly on your Psion!

  5)Get  OPPDebug  from Andy Clarkson.  This is a fine debugger for OPL.
    Psion  haven't  written  one  themselves,  so this is a must for all
    serious programmers!

  You  can  also  make  use  of  some  of the data which follows in this
  section, so read on.

8.3 OPL programming from a PC

  You  can  compose your OPL text files on your PC and send them down to
  the  Psion  with  the  link for translation, or you can obtain S3ATRAN
  from  the  IC  archive  (Section  5).  S3ATRAN will translate your OPL
  source into .OPO format which you can then use the link to move to the
  Psion.   In addition to translating simple OPL, S3ATRAN understands a
  number of C-like pre-processor commands, which make source preparation
  easier.   As well as this advantage, source preparation on a PC allows
  use of the full-sized keyboard and screen, use of whatever text editor
  you  favour, convenient storage and archival of important source code,
  and  access  to  printers.  It also allows you to make bigger programs
  since you are not limited to a 64k source like on the Psion.

  For   those  using  windows,  you  can  use  Psion's  Opl  Development
  Environment  (ODE)  which  is  a  *very*  nice  programmer's  tool for
  developing OPL in windows.  ODE is commercial.

  There  is  a Psion 3 emulator for the Series 3 and another one for the
  Series  3a,  both available in the IC archive, which allows you to run
  OPL programs on the PC.  For more details, see elsewhere in this FAQ.

  The  "Psionics  files"  are  a  collection  of information for the OPL
  programmer  who  wants to know more than is in the programming manual,
  but  who doesn't want the expense and effort of getting the SDK.  They
  include  general  explanations of system concepts, descriptions of all
  the system calls usable from OPL, information about some useful device
  drivers,  and  random  other useful items.  Much of the information is
  taken  from  the  official  Psion SDK manuals, with permission.  Clive
  D.W.  Feather is widely appreciated for having taken the time to bring
  this  information  to the Psion community.  You can get the latest set
  of files (which change quite frequently), from the WWW site.  See that
  section in the FAQ for the address.

  Psion  offer  Software Development Kits - "SDKs".  The lowest level is
  the  documentation-only  level.   This  currently  includes  two large
  ring-binders  which  document  vast amounts of detail about the Psion.
  Though much is of prime relevance to C programmers, a lot of essential
  information  can  be  gleened  by  the  astute OPL programmer.  System
  calls,  file  formats,  transmission protocols, OS structure etc.  are
  all to be had.  The SDK costs 75 UKP.  See the contacts section if you
  want to order it.

8.4 C Development on PC

  The  second level of SDK (see above) is called the "Standard SDK".  It
  includes  the  documentation  mentioned  above,  and  some software on
  floppies.   The  software comprises the TopSpeed C language system, an
  interactive   Psion  debugger,  some  customisation  files,  and  some
  examples.  This costs 155 UKP.

  "TopSpeed  C"  is  a  general  purpose  development  environment and C
  compiler.   You  can  use  it to write C programs for your PC, and the
  development environment allows you to add other language compilers.

  Psion's  customisation files taylor TopSpeed C so that it can generate
  image files which will run on the Psion.

  The Psion debugger allows C programs to be debugged.  Debugging can be
  done  at the C source code level, or at assembly language level, or in
  a  mixture  of  the  two.  The debugger also allows programs to be run
  locally  on  the  PC  in a form of Psion emulator, or run on the Psion
  itself  through  the  serial link.  A slew of very useful features are
  included in the debugger.

  Psion  also  provide some example programs which are referenced in the
  manuals.   Going  through these with the manual is a good way to learn
  about  the  Psion  and  the  best  way  to  program  on  it.   The SPY
  application is amoung the examples included.

  It  is  theoretically possible to write C programs for the Psion using
  other  compilers, but extensive expertise would be needed to avoid the
  pitfalls.   For  example, Topspeed C implements parameter passing in a
  way which is compatible with the Epoc operating system.

  Object-oriented programming is possible in this C environment.

8.4.1 Can I use another compiler than Topspeed? (by Dan Ramage)

  "It  is  impossible  to  write sibo applications with anything but the
  sibo sdk for several reasons.

  Topspeed  can  output  small  memory model code staying within the 64k
  code  and  data  segment.   In addition, Topspeeds calling conventions
  don't use the segment registers (which can really mess up your psion).
  Another  reason  is that topspeed code is compact and executes quickly
  on sibo machines."

8.5 Advanced C Development on a PC

  The  highest  level  of  SDK is the "Professional SDK".  This adds the
  source  code  of various device drivers to the Standard SDK.  It costs
  295 UKP.

8.6 Available books (by John A Watson)

  In order of complexity, the following books are available.

  1)First Steps in Programming the Psion Series 3 by Mike Shaw, 14.95 GB
    ISBN  0-7457-0145-0
    An introduction to the basic principles of programming.

  2)Graphic Programming on the Psion Series 3 by Bill Aitken, 14.95 GBP
    ISBN 0-7457-0156-6
    As the title suggests this is for those interested in graphics.

  3)Serious Programming on the Psion 3a by Bill Aitken, 16.95 GBP
    ISBN 0-7457-0035-7 (Series 3)
    ISBN 0-7457-0282-1 (Series 3a)
    A   complete  OPL  programming  tutorial  from  basics  to  advanced
    especially graphics including sprite design.

  4)Machine Code Programming on the Psion Series 3a & 3 by John Farrant,
    16.95 GBP
    As  the  title  suggests  this book tells you how to program in 8086
    machine  code  and  assembly language.  The price/package includes a
    fully functional two-pass assembler with text editor and debugger.

  5)Introduction to Using the Psion Series 3
    by Ros Lawton & Isaac Davis, 14.95 GBP
    ISBN 0-7457-0146-9 14.95.

  6)The 100 Most Frequently Asked Questions for You and Your Psion
    Series 3a & 3
    by Richard Bloss & Adam Taylor, 9.95 GBP
    ISBN 0-7457-0300-3

8.7 How to do various things: tips & tricks
    (Thanks to Andrew Baldwin for material)

  1)First - reading the programming manual which came  with  your  Psion
    more than once is thoroughly recommended !

  2)REVTRAN - is a reverse translator  available  at  the  archive.   It
    turns OPO modules back into OPL - though variable names may be lost.
    This  program  allows  developers to see how others have implemented
    their programs, and this may  give  valuable  insights  into  useful
    programming techniques.  Please note that you should not use REVTRAN
    to circumvent protection mechanisms, to avoid paying shareware fees,
    to  steal  programs  or  fragments  thereof,  or to do anything else
    illegal or anti-social.  Some OPL  programs  are  protected  against
    reverse translation.

  3)SPRITES - the manual doesn't make it clear.  You can have  only  one
    sprite.  You must emulate any further sprite functionality in OPL.

  4)MULTI-DIMENSIONAL ARRAYS - are not provided in OPL, but they can  be
    emulated.   For  example, a two dimensional array: ARRAY%(X%,Y%) may
    be implemented by declaring ARRAY%(Z%) (where  Z%=X%*Y%).   You  can
    now  access  element  (a%,b%) as ARRAY((b%-1)*X% + a%).  Each access
    requires  arithmetic  so this will incurr a speed penalty.  OPP, the
    OPL  preprocessor, implements this (exactly like described) but with
    complete transparency to the programmer.

  5)SPEED - OPL can get slow.  Here are some ideas for speeding them up.

    a)Where  does  your  program  spend  the  most time ?  Find out, and
      concentrate  on  those  sections.  It's pointless speeding up code
      segments which will not impact overall speed significantly.

    b)The use of floating point numbers is very slow; the Series 3 calls
      code which emulates a floating point processing chip.  Major gains
      can  be  had  if you avoid floating point numbers.  Often integers
      can be used with a mental shift of the decimal point.

    c)BUILT-IN  FUNCTIONS  like SIN can also be very slow.  Sometimes it
      is  preferable  to  build  a  table  of  answers and use a look-up
      strategy.

    d)On  the Series 3a, make use of the procedure cache, which can keep
      often-used  procedures  in  memory - thereby avoiding a heavy time
      penalty for loading them in.  On the Series 3 there is no cache to
      use,  but  you  can  place  the procedure code inline to avoid the
      overhead.   There  will  be  a  readability/complexity overhead to
      trade off.

    e)Use gUPDATE to restrict screen updates, as detailed in the manual.

    f)OPL allows the programmer to call machine code routines, which can
      be highly optimized for speed.  These can be built from C programs
      using  the  SDK,  or with an assembler (available in the archive).
      Programming  at  low  levels  requires  extensive knowledge of the
      Series 3 Operating System.  During development crashes are common,
      and  data  loss  may well occur.  Also note that re-implementing a
      code   segment   at  a  lower  level  will  not  necessarily  give
      significant  speed  improvements;  it  depends on what the code is
      doing.


A. SHAREWARE/FREEWARE SOFTWARE
==============================
  Please  note  that the software described here is just a small part of
  available software and that it would be impossible to track down every
  single  share/freeware Psion program.  If there is a program which you
  would like to see added to the list, please write a mini review in the
  same  style as these here and mail it me.  I'll gladly add it and give
  you credit!

  Just  some guidelines if you wish to submit a mini-review: mention the
  author  (and  Email  address  if possible), the exact filename and the
  type  of  program (free/share/cripple) as from the list below.  Do not
  write  more  than 2-3 sentences and do not mention any "this is great"
  or "this is bad" comments, thanks!

  If  you  want to know more about these programs, you may want to check
  out my Psion programmer's on the web list at:

  http://www.lookup.com/homepages/53994/prgers.htm

A.1 Applications

  I've  used the following definitions below.  These may not accord with
  their standard meanings as used elsewhere.

  Shareware:   a  fully  functional program is provided, but the user is
               asked to pay for it.

  Crippleware: as  shareware,  but  the  functionality of the program is
               restricted  in some way to encourage registration.  (This
               may not make it unusable - ANY restriction puts a program
               in this category.)

  Freeware:    the  fully  functional program is given away free.  It is
               probably still copyright to the author and conditions may
               be imposed on redistribution.

  GNUware:     the  program  is distributed under the GNU General Public
               Licence:   among other things, this means it will include
               source code.

  Note  that  when  ``*''  appears,  this means the version number.  New
  version come out very often, so I can't track down each program.

  The  following  people  have  contributed their reviews (see the first
  part of this FAQ for their Email addresses):

  Andy Clarkson         (AC)
  Roger Burton-West     (RBW)
  Steve Litchfield      (SL)
  Neil Masson           (NM)


  APPMAN: Jeremy Wakefield <[e-mail]>: freeware (RBW)
    For  the  advanced  OPL  programmer only, how to use those cascading
    dialogues   and   other   flashy  features  of  the  built-in  apps.
    Challenging but very useful.

  BATCHK: Pelican software: freeware (SL)
    Shows  you  the  state  of  your  batteries in a one-screened pretty
    display.  Even shows the state of the battery in RAM SSDs!

  CALC3A*: Richard Schmidt <[e-mail]>: nagware (RBW)
    Not  to be confused with all the other calculators out there!  Solid
    and   stable   scientific   calculator,  including  editable  preset
    equations.  A little bulky, but very impressive.

  CMDP: Psion, Inc.: freeware (RBW)
    DOS-style command line interface for the 3a and Workabout.  Handy if
    you like command lines (I do).  Slightly quirky.

  CON3A: Tim Bentinck: shareware (SL)
    A  comprehensive units conversion utiility.  Allows every conversion
    under  the  sun,  and  a  few  more.

  DUMP3A: Wolfgang Schirmer <[e-mail]>: freeware (RBW)
    Elderly but still useful hexadecimal/ASCII file editor.  Perfect for
    inspecting and modifying binaries, finding resources, etc.

  DPBANK*: Daniel Pfund <[e-mail]>: shareware (DP)
    A  small and very easy to learn bank account manager.  Lacks all the
    bells and whistles of the "big shots" but uses much less memory.

  DRAW: Rick Andrews: shareware (SL)
    Painting  and drawing application.  Its basic function is to let you
    create  PIC  files for use as icons or in slide-shows or in your own
    programs etc.  Allows PCX import/export.

  EIKON: Roger Burton West <[e-mail]>: freeware (RBW)
    One  of  a  great many icon editors available - essential for anyone
    writing  applications,  or  just  customising the look of the system
    shell.   Yes,  this  one  is  my  own; it has more features than the
    competition, it's faster than most, and it's free.

  FE830: Psion, Inc.: freeware (RBW)
    Hex/ASCII  file  editor  for the PC, optimised for TLV files.  Needs
    some  technical  knowledge,  but  invaluable  for data recovery from
    corrupted  files.   (An  internal  tool  used by Psion themselves, I
    gather.)

  FIREPIC: Andrew Baldwin <[e-mail]>: freeware (RBW)
    Picture  viewer.   Nothing special there, but this one will read and
    write  PCX  files  as  well as PICs; further DYLs may be written for
    other  formats;  and  it's being used by an increasing number of art
    packages.

  FONT*: Steve  Godfrey <[e-mail]>:  crippleware
         (RBW)
    Edits  Psion  fonts.  You can use them in your own programs, but not
    in the built-in apps or for printing.

  JBDAT*: John  Boyce <[e-mail]>: freeware (RBW)
    Replacement for Data, with much better functionality.  Needs lots of
    memory, but much more useful than the standard app.

  JBFND*: John Boyce <[e-mail]>: freeware (RBW)
    Searches  files  (even open files) for a text or hex string, and can
    auto-launch files that match.

  JBLAUNCH: John  Boyce <[e-mail]>: freeware (NM)
    Provides a single icon under which you can launch any program.

  JBSTOPGO: John  Boyce <[e-mail]>: freeware (NM)
    Stops   all   your  programs  before  a  backup  and  restarts  them
    afterwards.

  JBTREE: John  Boyce <[e-mail]>: freeware (SL)
    Allows  you  to  browse  round  a  Psion disk, tagging and deleting,
    viewing  or  moving  files.   Lots  of  extra  features too, such as
    viewing the space that could be reclaimed on a flash SSD.

  INSTALL: Psion GmbH: freeware (NM)
    Provides  configuration  for  your Psion, so that your system layout
    can  be  restored  after  a  reset.   (DP:Only  works correctly with
    english type Psions!)

  LOTTERY3: freeware (SL)
    This  application  will  run  a  complete simulation of thousands of
    years  playing,  just  for you, showing how often you would have won
    (or, more probably, lost) during that time.

  MACSYS: Tom Dolbilin <[e-mail]>: freeware (RBW)
    The  Macro  System allows automation of most common Psion tasks.  It
    can  record  and play back a sequence of keystrokes:  but macros are
    actually  full  OPL programs, and can use all the power available to
    the system.  A little tricky to master, but very rewarding.  Several
    macros are available on the Net as separate files.

  MAP*: Steve  Litchfield  <[e-mail]>:  shareware
        (RBW)
    Huge  geographical  information system with multiple overlays.  Maps
    of the UK, Ireland and London are available (separate registration).
    NOT a route finder, but handy for general information and basic town
    plans.

  NOTEPAD: Pelican Software: shareware (NM)
    A useful note-taking utility with links to other Psion applications.

  OPP*: Andy Clarkson <[e-mail]>: shareware (NM)
    This  is  an OPL pre-processor with various C-like features, such as
    #defines,  includes,  2D arrays.  Makes OPL much more readable.  See
    also section "Programming" for more info.

  OPPDBG: Andy Clarkson <[e-mail]>: shareware (AC)
    For  OPL programmers.  This is a run-time source level OPL debugger.
    Shows  which  lines of OPL code are being executed.  Examine and set
    values  of  local  variables  in  the running program.  Requires the
    separate OPL preprocessor utility (OPP 1.4F).

  PASON (NM)
    Switches  password  protection on overnight.  I use my Psion far too
    often to put up with entering a password every time I switch it on.

  PICPRINT & PRINTPIC (SL)
    Two  small  utilities  which allow printing from a PIC graphics file
    (for  example,  a screen-dump of a spreadsheet) to an Epson or Canon
    BJ printer.

  PIEDIR (NM)
    Gives  a  graphical representation of where your precious memory has
    gone.  Can do files only or can sum all the space under directories.
    Also shows space recoverable on a flash by formatting it.
    (DP:still quite buggy, but a new version should come out soon.)

  PLAN: Andy Clarkson <[e-mail]>: crippleware
    A project planning application.  You enter task and resource details
    and  dependencies  between  tasks.   Plan  will  then  work  out the
    schedule  for  each  task and the project as a whole (includes Gantt
    and Pert charts, interface to Microsoft Project,...).

  READER*  and  TCREADER:   Barry Childress <[e-mail]>:
                            nagware (RBW)
    Probably  the best text file viewer for the Psion, with many display
    options  and  good  buffering.  TCReader is a PC program to compress
    text files that Reader can view on the fly; it usually manages about
    50% reduction in size.

  RFM110: Psion, Inc.: freeware (RBW)
    TSR  to mount Psion drives over serial link to a PC, allowing normal
    PC  software  to access them.  Old and sometimes unstable, but still
    my favoured serial comms package (even over RCom/PsiWin).

  RVTRN*: Mike Rudin <[e-mail]>: freeware (RBW)
    Extremely  useful package to convert translated OPL programs back to
    source  code,  in  case  you've  lost  the source or want to see how
    someone  else  did something.  Controversial, and some programs have
    anti-Revtran "traps".

  S3ABANK*: Alan Richey <[e-mail]>: crippleware (RBW)
    An excellent general personal finance handler, with optional modules
    for  inventories,  expenses,  petrol,  etc.   Shareware  version  is
    severely   limited   (only  3  accounts).   Needs  lots  of  memory.
    Alternatives  are  available;  easier  to  use and less power/memory
    hungry, but not as complete: BankPlus, DPBank, SCBank.

  S3AEM1: Psion, Inc.: freeware (RBW)
    Series 3a emulator for the PC.  Try before you buy a Psion, test new
    software,  or  run  programs  at greater speed.  See also "Emulator"
    section in part I of this FAQ.

  S3AFRAME (NM)
    Supplies  an event-driven interface to OPL.  Menu selections and key
    presses are supplied as events to your OPL code.

  S3UZIP*: David Palmer <[e-mail]>:freeware (himself)
    Port   to   SIBO   machines  of  Info-Zip  team's  Unzip.   Runs  on
    MC400/HC/S3/S3a/Workabout.   Unzips  any  version  2.xx  zip  files,
    including  across  a remote link (the fastest way to move files to a
    Psion).  Versions >= 1.4 include notes for developers on how to call
    Unzip from C/C++ or OPL.

  SHELL3A (NM)
    Gives  a  UNIX-like  command  line  interface.  This is particularly
    useful  for creating directories and removing files, where the Psion
    menu  interface  is  rather clumsy.  Not the least of its virtues is
    the  fact that it understands filenames using forward (/) slashes as
    well as back (\) slashes.

  TOPIX: Uwe Kallmeyer <[e-mail]>: crippleware (RBW)
    Multi-level  outline  editor,  with  links  to files from other apps
    (such  as  Word or Sheet).  Perfect for large project management and
    keeping track of long lists.

  TUBEFINDER: Steve     Litchfield    <[e-mail]>:
              freeware (SL)
    A  simple routefinder for the London Tube system.  It's not the most
    accurate and thorough program in the world, but then hey, it's free!

A.2 Games (by Dan Ko)

Name         Stars Zip  Exp  Mem  Type FMT Collection Description
------------ ----- ---- ---- ---- ---- --- ---------- ------------------
pipe3a.zip   ***** 9k   10k  12k  S    F   ?          exciting puzzle
stigma.zip   ****  63k  87k  39k  D+C  F   ?          rolling ball
fair22.zip   ****  115k 197k 46k  S+C  F+S GamesPck3a THE golf game
tetris_2.zip ***** 9k   16k  6k   S    F   ?          Tetris nuff said
Patience     ***   -    -    8k   C    R   1Mb/2MbS3a zzzzzzzz
bunnies.zip  **    15k  42k  ?    F    F              slow platform
lander3.zip  ****  33k  62k  ?    S    F+S GamesPck3a cool space game
risk101a.zip ***+  31k  81k  14k  S    F   ?          strategy
willy11.zip  **    40k  68k  ?    S    F   doubt it   2slow2big platform
Tanka.zip    **    9k   12k? ?    S    F              S3 was much better

Stars:  Arbitary rating units, overall personal impression includes
        adjustment for size.
        *     waste of space
        **    avoid; boring, limited appeal
        ***   OK, if you've nothing better to fill your flash with
        ****  excellent, recommended
        ***** can't live without it

Zip:        The zip file size
Exp:        How much space the installed components will take up
Mem:        Free system memory required to run in
Type:       S Shareware
            D Demo
            F Freeware/PD
            C Commercial
Format:     F floppy (ZIP file)
            S SSD
            R built into ROM
Collection: Name of collection which contains this game

End of part 4/5
From: [e-mail] (Daniel `HB9VBC' Pfund)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.psion,comp.sys.palmtops,comp.answers,news.answers
Subject: comp.sys.psion FAQ part 5/5
Followup-To: comp.sys.psion
Approved: [e-mail]
Summary: This article is a collection of information on the Psion
         Series 3(a) palmtop computers. It should be read by anyone
         intending to post to the comp.sys.psion newsgroup.

Archive-name: psion-faq/part5
Version: $VER: Psion FAQ v1.4 (May 1996)
Posting-Frequency: monthly
URL: http://www.bris.ac.uk/~lwmdcg/Psion/FAQ/  (FAQ repository)
     http://www.lookup.com/homepages/53994/    (My own homepage)

part 5
======

  See  part 1 for complete table of contents of this FAQ (including this
  part's).


B. COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE SOFTWARE
==================================
  This is the official Psion commercial Software list taken from Psion's
  "Software  &  Accessories"  catalog  v2  (Oct95).  Thanks to Psion for
  providing it.  All telephone numbers are UK unless stated otherwise.

  Prices are either known from v1 of the catalog or fall into one of the
  following categories in v2 (in UKP)

    -A: Less than 30
    -B: 30-50
    -C: 51-74
    -D: 75-99
    -E: 100+

B.1 BUSINESS & LEGAL

  Agenda Link - Please inquire for price.
    from Widget Software Ltd. [phone]
    Share  information  in  your  Series 3 or 3a Agenda by linking it to
    either  Lotus Organizer or MS Schedule Plus.  Agenda Link translates
    the  data  from  Series  3/3a  to  these popular Windows information
    managers.

  Asset Tracking - Please inquire for price.
    from  Advanced  New Technology [phone]
    Equipment  Inspections,PAT  checks  plus  more  all within this well
    proven  system.  Control of all items, history, inspections, overdue
    status, locations and status.  Full PC management control interface.

  Banker - Please inquire for price.
    from Pelican Software [phone]
    Personal  finance  software  for  the Series 3a.  Banker Imports and
    Exports  to Quicken.  Very easy to use and provides features such as
    easy  transfers,  split  transactions, password protection, unerase,
    reconciliation,  pop  up Calculator and Calendar, reports, printing,
    reminders and Tidy.

  Banking Assistant - GBP 89.95
    from Portable Software [phone]
    Built   around  a  multi-currency,  multi-account  system  with  tax
    handling  and  cash  flow  forecasting.  Separate budget planner and
    petty  cash recorder plus an energy monitor.  Complete with over 100
    sophisticated financial calculators and converters.

  Child Support and Legal Aid - cat E
    from Dodona Ltd. [phone]
    ChildSupport   calculates  liabilities  and  entitlements  to  child
    support   and  includes  welfare  benefits  calculations.   LegalAid
    calculates  entitlement  and  contributions  to a Green Form, ABWOR,
    Civil and Criminal Legal Aid.

  Electrical Design Suite - cat E
    from Electrical Engineer [phone]
    The  programs  come  in the form of spreadsheet files, together with
    technical data for the on-board database, some utilities for OPL and
    readme files.

  Finance Pack - GBP 49.95 for Series 3, GBP 59.95 for Series 3a.
    from Widget Software Ltd. [phone]
    Ideal  for  home  finance,  self-assessment  for  income  tax, small
    business accounts (without VAT).  Ask for the "Widget Software Guide
    to  Getting  Rich",  a  four page booklet containing full details on
    this package.

  Helper 3 and Renovator - cat E
    from Ferret Information Systems Ltd. [phone]
    Helper  3  calculates Income Support, Family Credit, DWA and Housing
    Benefits.   Renovator  calculates  entitlement to Renovation, Grants
    for Owners and Tenants, Landlords and disabled Facilities Grants.

  Office Assistant - GBP 89.95
    from  Portable Software [phone]
    Designed  to  help  co-ordinate  a  busy  office.   Integrated  time
    facility includes project monitor.  Helps with filing and retrieving
    documents.   Petty  cash  account  plus inventory and loan equipment
    tracking.

  Plain Paper Invoicing - cat D
    from Lasersoft [phone]
    The  convenient  and  efficient way to issue invoices and to prepare
    quotations,  particularly  suited for small businesses and for those
    who are self-employed.

  Pocket Publishing - cat C
    from Hockney Engineers Ltd. [phone]
    The  easy way to print personalised letterheads and the quick way to
    write  every  day letters, with a choice of high profile distinctive
    styles.   For  use with Canon Bubble Jet Printers or Hewlett Packard
    and compatible laser printers.

  Sales Assistant - GBP 89.95
    from Portable Software [phone]
    Integrated  order processing, stock control and customer care.  Full
    set  of  output  documents and management reports.  Special versions
    available for several industries.

  Text Assistant - GBP 89.95
    from Portable Software [phone]
    Assembles  letters,  memos, orders, invoices or notices without lots
    of  typing.   Lays  out the page automatically.  Financial documents
    totalled  allowing discount and tax calculations.  Links to the Data
    system to produce mail shots.

  Training Assistant - GBP 89.95
    from Portable Software [phone]
    Contains  a register and results recording system.  Designed for use
    in  industrial  training  as  well  as  educational  establishments.
    Allows  for  self  assessment  by students.  Carries out much of the
    tedious analysis and report writing.

B.2 EDUCATION

  Note: The "Acorn Pocket Book" is a re-badged Series 3.(the II is a 3a)

  Acorn Schedule - GBP 19.95
    from Acorn Computers Ltd. [phone]
    Supplied  on  an  SSD  ROM card with manual.  This combines a diary,
    personal organiser and timetable.  Also includes the spell checker.

  Acorn Plotter - GBP 35.19
    from  Acorn  Computers  Ltd. [phone]
    A  graphical  plotting  application  meeting all curriculum needs in
    Math  and  Science for key stages 3,4 and onwards as well as most of
    the requirements for A-Level.  Supplied on SSD with manual.

  Explorer - GBP 92.82
    from ExpLAN UK Ltd. [phone]
    Designed  to  allow the introduction of an IT content to field trips
    and  surveys  by  replacing  the traditional pen and paper worksheet
    with a structured set of questions on an Acorn Pocket Book or Series
    3/3a.

  Event - GBP 24.95
    from ExpLAN UK Ltd. [phone]
    A  desktop  diary  for  Acorn  RISC  computers designed to work with
    Schedule on the Acorn Pocket Book and Agenda on the Series 3/3a.

  Occasion - User version GBP 69.95.  Network version available.
    from ExpLAN UK Ltd. [phone]
    A   personal   organiser   application  for  Acorn  RISC  computers.
    Comprising  a  diary,  address  book,  phone  book  and  note  book.
    Information  may be exchanged with applications running on the Acorn
    Pocket Book and Series 3/3a.

B.3 DRAWING, LEISURE & GUIDES

  3a Bridge - cat B&C
    from Interdata Developments [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    The  ultimate Bridge program specifically written for the Series 3a.
    This  Acol-based  program  will  appeal  to  both  inexperiences and
    serious players at all levels.

  3a Chess - cat B
    from Purple Software Ltd [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    A powerful chess game that incorporates a wealth of useful features.

  Adventure pack I - cat B
    from Interdata Developments [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    Adventure  pack  is an Infocom text adventure interpreter with games
    such  as  Zork, The Hitchhicker's Guide To The Galaxy, Colossal Cave
    Adventure and many more.

  A cornucopia of leisure programs - cat A
    from BroadOak Computing [phone]
    Includes  10  programs:  Biorythms, Lottery, RPI '95 (purchase price
    comparaisons),  Tchance  (for football pool results), Roulette, Nim,
    Poker  Dice,  Quintet,  Papillons  (a  cryptic crossword like game),
    and Looksat (directions for satellite TV reception).

  Diamond Score - cat C
    from ProCreations Inc. [phone] (1 800 599 7828 in USA)
    A fun, easy and powerful way to score Baseball and Softball, whether
    professional, amateur or little league.

  DrawIt - cat B
    from Purple Software Ltd [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    DrawIt   is  an  object  based  drawing  program  incorporating  and
    extensive set of pre-drawn lines, arrows, curves and shapes.  Shapes
    can be re-sized, grouped, ungrouped, ordered and rotated.

  EMCC Backgammon - GBP 21.90 + (depending on disk/SSD)
    from EMCC
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    Multilingual  backgammon  game with loads of features like Undo user
    move,  save  & retrieve game, best move hint...  For 1 or 2 players.
    Available either on disk or SSD.

  Expotel Pages
    from Mobile Software [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    UK  Hotel  Reservations  Service.  Significant discounts for booking
    your  hotels  with Expotel.  Booking service is free.  Used with the
    relational  database  "Mobile  Pages"  also  available for free from
    Mobile Software.

  FloChart - cat B
    from Purple Software Ltd [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    FloChart  is a free form flow chart designer which supports the full
    ANSI set of flow chart shapes.

  Games 3 - GBP 34.95
    from Widget Software Ltd. [phone]
    Seven   exciting   and  innovative  games  for  your  entertainment.
    Includes  Castle,  a  full  text  adventure  game;  Bandit,  a fruit
    machine;  Poker  and  Solo,  classic  card  games; Reversi, Quad and
    Minesweeper.

  GolfCard - GBP 69.95 and Analyst - GBP 25.00
    from M-P (Golf) Systems [phone]
    GolfCard  is  a  Database  and Scoring System for use on and off the
    golf  course.   Use it to score all popular match formats for 1 to 4
    players,  Then  save  course  details  and  match  for reference and
    analysis.   Analyst  allows  you  to  monitor you and your partners'
    progress.   It  can  show all or a selection of a player's scores on
    one course at once, and then calculate averages, eclectic scores and
    other statistics.

  The Greater London Restaurant Guide - 49.95
    from Mobile Software [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    Find  the  restaurants you want but didn't know existed, quickly and
    easily.   A  wide  variety  of  search keys ensures that you ask the
    questions,  and  Mobile  Pages  gives the answers.  For example, all
    Chinese  restaurants  serving both Cantonese and Peking food, with a
    non-smoking area and highchair availability.

  Transmedia
    from Mobile Software [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    Directory  of  over  4500 UK, USA & Australian restaurants.  Members
    enjoy  25%  savings at all participating restaurants.  Used with the
    relational  database  "Mobile  Pages"  also  available for free from
    Mobile Software.

  Miscellany - GBP 34.95
    from BroadOak Computing [phone]
    Includes  Biorhythms, the Series 3 character set, the date of Easter
    1901-2199,  Football  Pools  manager  and  draw  selector, RPI price
    comparisons  1947-1994  (9  indices)  Games for Thinkers & Gamblers.
    Includes Roulette, Nim, Poker Dice and Quintet.

  OrgChart - cat B
    from Purple Software Ltd [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    OrgChart  is  a  free-form  organisational chart designer.  Built-in
    intelligence  ensures logical connections are maintained when charts
    are edited.

  Paint and Compose - GBP 69.95
    from Widget Software Ltd. [phone]
    Paint can display or print downloaded PCX, GIF, or BMP files, create
    new  pictures  or  capture  and  print  spreadsheet graphs or screen
    shots.   Compose  can  create  and  print melodies on bass or treble
    clef.

  Voyance Astrology - cat B
    from Voyance Astrology [phone]
    A  comprehensive Astrology program for the Series 3a.  Comes with an
    introductory manual on Astrology which provides everything necessary
    for anyone to learn the basics of this ancient science.

B.4 NAVIGATION

  Air Navigator - GBP 116.33
    from Dolphin Digital [phone]
    Flight  Planning software for PPL through to commercial use.  Flight
    plan,  fuel  consumption  and  cost  displayed  or  printed.  Stores
    aircraft  and  route  information,  full weight and balance schedule
    plus dB Hold, crosswind, conversions, sunrise, and sunset etc.  Full
    European or American database available.

  astroNAVCOMP - From GBP 149.00
    from Intecma Associates OMEGA [phone]
    Multi-leg  rhumb  line and Great Circle passage planning.  Celestial
    navigation  with  integral almanac for sun, moon, planets and stars.
    Easy  to  use  -  fixes  computed  without plotting.  Running fixes.
    Graphic display of D.R., fix, and position lines.

  Astro-Navigation - Please inquire for price.
    from Maritek [phone]
    Sextant  sight  reduction  calculations done quickly.  Automatically
    compensates for refraction, parallax and sun diameter.  Equally easy
    for moon, planets and stars.  Running fixes, use for predictions and
    gives  time  of  sunrise/sunset,  twilight  and  transits.   May  be
    combined with Navigator.

  Coastmaster 3 - Please inquire for price.
    from Dolphin Maritime Software Ltd. [phone]
    For  the Yachtsman or professional Navigator who needs to store very
    large numbers of waypoints and routes.  Computes intermediate points
    along  a  rhumb  line,  automatic route, ETA, true/apparent wind and
    many others.

  Flight Analyser  - Please inquire for price.
    from Top of the Stack [phone]
    For  glider  pilots  and  balloonists.   Allows you to upload, view,
    analyse  and archive electronic barograph traces on the Series 3/3a.
    Features  include  auto  scaling,  multiple  zooming,  GPS  support,
    automatic   selection   of  climbs  and  descents  and  many  useful
    utilities.

  GNAV3a - cat E
    from Pooleys Ltd. [phone]
    Professional  flight planning using waypoints created from latitudes
    and  longitudes,  national  grid references or bearing and distances
    from  known  waypoints or a track and distance.  Pooleys, Europe, US
    databases available.

  grafTIDE - cat E
    from Intecma Associates OMEGA [phone]
    Heights  of  tide  Tidal curve plotted for any day and any port in a
    user-maintained Port library.  30 day hi/low curve.

  LGBK3a - cat E
    from Pooleys Ltd. [phone]
    An  electronic  logbook  for  the  Professional  or  Private  pilot.
    Handles  both  Fixed  Wing  and  Rotary Wing.  Includes a CAA CAP371
    calculator  for  flying  limitations  and  duty  hours.  Produces A4
    certified print outs.

  Navcomp - GBP 149.00
    from Intecma Associates OMEGA [phone]
    Passage  and  race  planning.   Multi-function multi-leg system with
    built-in  tidal  streams for N.  Europe.  Estimated hourly positions
    with  graphic  display  of  groundtrack.   Up  to 99 legs, 234 named
    waypoints  with  index.   Wind  oriented tacking.  Optional NMEA0183
    interface.

  Navigator - cat D
    from Maritek [phone]
    A chart table companion for navigation, passage planning and keeping
    a  log.   Unlimited  waypoints/routes.   Computes a detailed passage
    plan.  Computes present positions, bearings, ground track and speed,
    and  keeps  performance  data.   Full  GPS  capability with optional
    receiver.  Optional astro-nav facility.

  Navplan - cat E
    from Airtech Systems [phone]
    Email: [e-mail]
    Navplan  is  a  flight planning package for pilots of all experience
    levels, both helicopter and fixed wing.  It is flexible enough to be
    simple and informative to any user, whilst remaining powerful enough
    to cope with any demands placed upon it by a commercial operator.

  Nautical Assistant - Please inquire for price.
    from Portable Software [phone]
    Check  the  European  tide  tables  from  the  built-in data tables.
    Numerous navigational, waypoint and racing calculators included.

  Odyssey - cat D
    from NavTech Software [phone]
    Email: [e-mail]
    A  comprehensive  record of flying hours including night, x-country,
    instrument   and  simulator  time,  plus  approaches,  landings  and
    remarks.  Uses defaults for rapid entry.

  Oil Survey 3 - Please inquire for price.
    from Dolphin Maritime Software Ltd. [phone]
    For  oil and chemical cargoes.  Up to 99 surveys may be stored.  All
    the  usual  ASTM-IP  tables  plus many extras.  Ability to print out
    survey with surveyor's name etc.  via optional cable.

  Sierra - cat D
    from NavTech Software [phone]
    Email: [e-mail]
    IFR/IVR   flight   planning   and   utilities  for  the  private  or
    professional pilot.  Uses default values for fast planning with auto
    fuel  plan  and  auto  frequency windows.  Uses TAS, RAS or MACH no.
    and can save multiple routes.

  Sightmaster 3 - cat D
    from Dolphin Maritime Software Ltd. [phone]
    Email: [e-mail]
    An  Ocean  Navigation  program which includes memory of all data for
    navigation,  Sight  reduction  with  all  corrections  automatically
    applied,  Almanac  for 59 stars, the sun, the moon and all 4 planets
    until 2100 AD.

  Stability Draft and Trim 3 - Please inquire for price.
    from Dolphin Maritime Software Ltd. [phone]
    For ship loading calculations.  Storage for up to 10 ships, up to 99
    voyages per ship, up to 99 cargo spaces, stores etc.  per ship.  All
    results printable via optional cable.

  Tides - cat D
    from Maritek Ltd. [phone]
    Fast  calculation  of  tidal  heigth for hundreds of ports round the
    British  Isles  and  Western  Europe.   You  may also add more ports
    yourself.

B.5 COMMUNICATIONS & UTILITIES

  S3 Backup - Please inquire for price.
    from Point.X [phone]
    Provides  simple  and  easy to use file backup from specified Series
    3/3a  disks  (internal, A, B or any combination).  Program runs from
    MS-DOS command line and can be included to the batch files.  Program
    compares  the  files on Series 3 with contents of "archive" on PC to
    copy a new file.

  3BASE - Please inquire for price.
    from The Turing Machine Company [phone]
    A   user-friendly  Windows  application  offering  data  integration
    between  your  Series 3/3a database and many of the world's PC-based
    database  applications.  3BASE will convert between Series 3, Series
    3a,  dBase  IV, Windows Card, IIP95LX and FoxPro files and a variety
    of other database formats.

  S3WP - Please inquire for price.
    from Point.X [phone]
    Converts text between Series 3/3a Word processor and WordPerfect 5.1
    files  without  losing  any formatting information (styles, emphasis
    etc.).   Database  files (application DATA) can also be converted to
    WP  5.1 files.  Utility is running from MS-DOS commands with various
    parameter settings.

  Commander 3a -Please inquire for price.
    from Yellow Computing [phone]
    A  toolbox  of  utilities  for  the  Psion  Series  3  and  3a.  The
    Commander-Shell allows all file functions such as copying, renaming,
    deleting   etc.    Also   includes   a  fast  Database-Viewer,  Data
    Compression,  Hex  Editor,  SSD-Manager,  Graphics  view  and  print
    utility etc.

  dBase Convert - Please inquire for price.
    from Point.X [phone]
    Converts  Series  3/3a  database files from and to DBase file format
    (dBase  III  compatible).   Also  the ODB files (OPL data files) are
    handled.    Program  is  MS-DOS  command  line  driven  and  several
    parameters  are  provided.  Agenda files can be transferred to dBase
    as well.

  ESP/3 (Electronic Sales and Purchases for Series 3) - GBP 75.00
    from Oak Software [phone]
    A  communications  base  using  the  ESP/Net  service  which  brings
    customers   and   producers   together  electronically.   Additional
    applications can easily be written as required.

  InterData - Please inquire for price.
    from Lacegem Ltd. [phone]
    Gives  you  the  power  to  manipulate your data effectively on your
    Series  3/3a  and  to work with, share and convert your data for use
    with your favourite Windows database.  InterData S3 and InterData PC
    are  supplied  as  a  suite  of  two  programs  on  a 3.5 inch disk.
    Interdata S3 available alone on flashpack.

  PComm - contact ASC
    from Advanced System Consultants Inc. [phone]
    PComm is an easy to use PC-like communications program for the Psion
    Series  3(a),  HC  or WorkAbout.  Supports ANSI, VT100, IBM3270, X/Y
    Modem.  Scripts are compatible with Procomm 2.0.

  Series 3 Tools - GBP 49.95
    from Widget Software Ltd. [phone]
    Puts  you  in  control of your Series 3/3a, telling you how much RAM
    you  have  left,  how much space each file on your SSDs takes up and
    how  to  make the most of what you have left.  Also includes Convert
    utility and Task Manager.

  Tool Kit I - cat B
    from Purple Software Ltd [phone]
    Email: <[e-mail]>
    Comprises  4  programs:   File  Manager (also available seperately),
    Convert  (converts  various  things  like  currencies,  length ...),
    PicView  (view  PIC,  PCX,  BMP  and GIF pictures on your Psion) and
    ScnPrint (Print your screen direclty).

  VT100 Emulator - GBP 58.75
    from  Widget Software Ltd. [phone] Keep in touch with your
    office  system  or test equipment on site direct from the Series 3a.
    Use  with  remote  system  via  modem  or connect direct to any host
    requiring  VT100 capability.  Supports most VT100 features including
    underline, bold, reverse video, scrolling and keypad emulation.

  Wasp Time Recorder - Please inquire for price.
    from Wasp Software Ltd. [phone]
    Portable  Time Recorder for professionals.  A host of features which
    you  would  have  been  pleased  to  think  of yourself to make your
    business  more  fluent  and  profitable.  Download and upload client
    details  from  network  or  mainframe.   Report  locally  or  on any
    supplier's system.

  Waspbox - Please inquire for price.
    from Wasp Software Ltd. [phone]
    Provides  office  machine costs recovery for professionals.  Copier,
    fax  control and direct chargeback to client account irrespective of
    computer  software  supplier.   Any  office  machine  can be made to
    function  only  when valid client codes are entered.  Stand-alone or
    networked.  Local reports or mainframe.

  Winlink - GBP 29.99 from Widget Software Ltd. [phone]
    Winlink  makes  communicating  between  a Series 3 or 3a and Windows
    easy.  You need a Serial Link (RS232) Cable in order to use Winlink.

B.6 DIET, HEALTH & SAFETY

  Berdy Smartdocs - Please inquire for price.
    from Berdy Medical Systems [phone] (or 1 800 66 BERDY)
    SmartDocs  is  an  easy  to  use  hospital  rounds  assistant.  With
    SmartDocs,  you  can  quickly  record  your  patient's diagnosis and
    procedure  information  on the spot.  SmartDocs stores basic patient
    information,  insurance  data and ICD-9 and CPT codes with a minimum
    effort.

  Compute-A-Diet - cat C
    from Comcard Ltd. [phone]
    A  complete  dietary  analysis  system incorporating the UK National
    Food  Database.  Calculates your ideal weight, dietary requirements,
    daily averages and much more.  US and Aus.  versions also available.

  COSHH Assessments - Please inquire for price.
    from  Advanced New Technology [phone]
    Allows  H & S mangers to view COSHH details directly from the Series
    3  and  also  enables  them to undertake COSHH Assessments using the
    base chemical details.  Full PC management control interface.

  Ezey-Log - Please inquire for price.
    from Ezey-Log [phone]
    Ezey-Log is a computerised log book designed by doctors for doctors.
    Allows  you  to  store  and  generate  your Anaesthetic, Surgical or
    Procedure Log Book.  Package includes PC archive and link.  Features
    include  quick  form-type  input,  simple  transfer  protocol to PC,
    workload breakdown, flexible input facility.

  Risk MATRIX Assessments - Please inquire for price.
    from Advanced New Technology [phone]
    Full,  user driven, Risk assessment system.  Employs the Risk Matrix
    method  of determining the risk level.  Full risk action control and
    measures in place facilities.  Full PC management control interface.

  Risk HRN Assessments - Please inquire for price.
    from Advanced New Technology [phone]
    Full,  user  driven,  Risk  assessment  system.   Employs the Hazard
    Rating Number formula technique to determining the risk level.  Full
    risk action control and measures in place facilities.

  Room Safety Checks - Please inquire for price.
    from Advanced New Technology [phone]
    The H & S Manager can walk into a room and check all safety aspects.
    Complete  with  hazard  ratings, notepad and automatic action alarms
    directly  from  the  Series  3  Agenda.   Full PC management control
    interface.

  Visual P.A.T Inspections - Please inquire for price.
    from Advanced New Technology [phone]
    All  electrical  equipment can be checked easily and quickly for any
    obvious visual defects.  Full recording of inspector, date, time and
    full   results.   Full  history  and  overdue  reporting.   Full  PC
    management control interface.

B.7 TIME/CONTACT MANAGEMENT

  Contact Edge - cat C
    from Total Computer Systems [phone]
    Manages   prospects,  sales  and  business  contact  information  by
    integrating  a  relational  contact database and user defined report
    generator  with  the  Psion 3 Agenda, Word and Spreadsheet.  Contact
    TEAM  links 3a's with Lotus Notes sales and marketing database for 2
    way data exchange.

  Contact Team - cat E
    from Total Computer Systems [phone]
    A  complete  sales and marketing multi-user system, written in Lotus
    Notes,  which  has  a  sophisticated  gateway to the Series 3(a) and
    integrates  with  the  built-in applications (ie.  Word, Sheet ...).
    Handles Email linking to Lotus Notes mail and Lotus cc:mail.

  G-Tabs - cat C
    from Gartside Neville Ltd. [phone]
    A sophisticated, easy to use system for collecting time, expense and
    cost   data.   Comprehensive  facilities  include  activity  timing,
    reviewing,  cutting/pasting,  merging, backing-up, printing and data
    transfer to the Psion Spreadsheet and PC-based accounting, database,
    spreadsheet and bespoke products.

  Job Search - cat B
    from Maritek [phone]
    Helps  the  job  seeker  keep track of job applications, interviews,
    etc.  It displays details of any application, lists applications and
    gives breakdown of the current state of applications.

  Timebase - cat C
    from Widget Software Ltd. [phone]
    Timebase  records time, activity, expenses and costs electronically,
    either  in  "real-time" using the built-in clock of the Series 3a or
    by manual entry after the event.

  Timebase Integrator - cat C
    from Total Computer Systems [phone]
    A  powerful,  multi-user  time recording system with several options
    for  data  capture,  including  recording time on a Series 3(a), and
    additional report generating and project monitoring modules.

  Timing Assistant - GBP 89.95
    from Portable Software [phone]
    Contains  a  set  of  business and domestic timing utilities.  These
    include  a  professional work timer, a scheduler plus fitness, phone
    and  chess  timers.   With Data Assistant which extends the built-in
    Data system.

B.8 MAPPING & SURVEYING

  Asset Tracker & Portable Appliance Testing - Please inquire for price.
    from Surveying Technology [phone]
    A  Facilities  Management  tool  that  utilises  the  Series  3a and
    interfaces  with  Seaward  PAT  testers.  Simplifies using the Psion
    Series  3 in conjunction with a CCD barcode scanner to keep track of
    company assets.

  Condition Survey Master - Please inquire for price.
    from Surveying Technology [phone]
    Designed  for  Building  Surveyors  and  Property Managers.  A fully
    customisable  Condition  Surveying  system  using  GUI  allows fully
    detailed  internal and external works to be monitored and downloaded
    into the Windows database.

  Geodos - cat E
    from Viker Data AB [phone]
    Geodos is a complete surveying software package for the Series 3.
    Connectable to optional surveying instruments and GPS systems.  Free
    stationing, traverse measurements, eccentric measurements, polar and
    rectangular setting out and measurementm resection, intersection...

  Geographical Database - cat D
    from Fawnbench Ltd. [phone]
    Displays  a  map  of the UK from a digital database including roads,
    railways,  and  rivers  with  full  annotation showing town and road
    names.   Features  can  be searched for by name and location.  Users
    can add their own features represented by custom icons.

  Planned Building/Room Inspections - Please inquire for price.
    from Advanced New Technology [phone]
    A  complete  Building/FM  managers  package.  Buildings/Rooms can be
    set-up  with  standard  blocks of questions, enabling all aspects of
    the  room  to  be checked.  Full hazard ratings and automatic agenda
    and alarms when actions are due.

  Spotter's Mate - cat D
    from Brider Ltd. [phone]
    Spotter's  Mate is the ideal companion for the railway enthusiast on
    the  move.  It contains all the current British Railways locomotives
    and multiple units, details of which can be displayed in seconds.

  Survey Master Graphique - Please inquire for price.
    from Surveying Technology [phone]
    For creating survey drawings.  A comprehensive list of commands that
    include  entering  symbols, editing data on site, calculating angles
    and  viewing  drawings  on  site.   Download the survey drawing into
    AutoCAD or use DXF translator.

  Tube - cat B
    from SW Systems [phone]
    Email: [e-mail]
    Enables  you  to navigate the Lodon Underground, locate stations and
    places  of  interest  and automatically calculate routes between any
    two stations.

B.9 DATABASES

  DataDeLuxe - GBP 69.95
    from Pocket & Soul [phone]
    Database  for  the  Series  3  and 3a.  Works with all existing data
    files.  Toggles between a record view and table view of all selected
    records.   Contains  multiple  search  and  select  options and fast
    alphabetical sort routine.

  DataView and DataView Pro - cat B/C
    from Purple Software [phone]
    Email: [e-mail]
    DataView  is  an  easy  to use, yet versatile, database manager that
    offers  complete  compatibility  with  databases  prepared using the
    built-in Data application.

  Information - cat B
    from Surerange Analysis Ltd. [phone]
    Email: [e-mail]
    A  collection  of  small  databases  in Psion Data format containing
    commonly  used  facts.   Disciplines  include  Physics, Mathematics,
    Biology, Geography, Language and Computing.

  Mobile Pages - cat E
    from Mobile Software [phone]
    Email: [e-mail]
    Mobile  Pages  is  an  innovative  solution  to an age old problem -
    equipping  people  on  the move with the information they need to do
    their  job.   It  allows  easy  downloading  of information normally
    stored on business and corporate computers, providing access to that
    information in a simple and flexible manner.

  Multivue - cat B
    from The User Group [phone]
    The complete businessman's database - design your own split-screens,
    scroll  through  information,  select  any mix of records, with full
    mail  merge  and  label  printing.  Simple export facility to remote
    computers.

B.10 SERVICES

  Advanced New Technology [phone]
    With  a  wide  range of on-hand experience, work closely as partners
    with  companies  requiring  custom  systems  to provide an effective
    solution in almost all aspects of business and industry.  References
    for quality satisfaction available.

  Iceberg Software Ltd [phone]
    A  consultancy  service  offering  a  professional team to meet your
    software   requirements.    Experience  includes  financial  trading
    software,  analytical,  datafeed and remote Psion based access to PC
    applications.   Can  develop  ideas  and  produce  software  for  MS
    Windows, MS Windows NT and the Psion Series 3a.

  PNJ Consultants-Software Engineering [phone]
    A  software  engineering and consultancy service is provided for all
    types   of   Psion   machines.    Applications   can   be  developed
    professionally  to  your  requirements  for  use  on their own or in
    conjunction with larger systems.

  Right Hand Software Ltd. [phone]
    Develop  general  and  business  applications for the Psion range of
    computers.  Services include business requirement analysis, software
    design and programming in C or OPL, integration with desktop systems
    and implementation, training and support.

  The User Group - [phone]
    User  group for Psion.  Receive unlimited technical support, advice,
    newsletters,  shareware,  new  software,  discount hardware, special
    offers,  own bulletin board, regional seminars and fun.  Cost is GBP
    28.00 per year.

B.11 BOOKS & ACCESSORIES

  First Steps in Programming the Psion Series 3.
    By Mike Shaw.  GBP 14.95
    from Kuma Books Ltd.  [phone]
    Step by step instruction of the programming process of OPL.

  Introduction to Using the Psion Series 3.
    By Rod Lawton and Issac Davis. GBP 14.95
    from Kuma Books Ltd. [phone]
    Disregards  all the computer jargon and concentrates on the machines
    abilities and potential as your own Personal Assistant.

  Serious Programming on the Psion Series 3.
    By Bill Aitken.  GBP 14.95
    from Kuma Books Ltd. [phone]
    Program planning and writing with many worked examples.

  Graphics programming on the Psion Series 3.
    By Bill Aitken.  GBP 14.95
    from Kuma Books Ltd.  [phone]
    Detailed  explanations  of graphics programming with numerous worked
    out examples.

  Serious Programming on the Psion Series 3a.
    By Bill Aitken.  GBP 16.95
    from Kuma Books Ltd.  [phone]
    Covers  all  the  commands of the Series 3a including sound, drawing
    and filling in black and grey plus a major section on graphics.

  Programmeren in OPL - Please inquire for price.
    from Portasoft [phone]
    Describes  how you design an application in OPL for the Psion Series
    3  and  3a.   It  starts  with simple programming and continues with
    subjects   like  using  structures,  procedures,  menus  and  window
    functions.  Available in Dutch.

  Desk Stand - GBP 16.99
    from Widget Software Ltd. [phone]
    If  you  don't  have  enough  hands to talk on the phone and use the
    Series  3  at  the  same  time,  then  you need this black, anodised
    aluminium  desk stand.  The angle of display makes it easier to read
    the  screen  and  reduces  glare.  Designed to make your Series 3/3a
    stand out above even the largest mound of paperwork

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