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PSION SERIES 3x
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Chris Wesley
12Oct94
Welcome to the FAQ for comp.sys.psion. Find the contents table below.
Questions and constructive comments are welcome. Send them to me at:
Chris.Wesley@tiuk.ti.com.
I. DISCLAIMER
II. CREDITS
III. COPYRIGHT
IV. NEWSGROUP NETIQUETTE
1. INTRODUCTORY INFORMATION
a. What is the Series 3/3a ?
b. Brief review of older Psion machines
c. Comparison of Psion versus other palmtops
d. User groups, CIX, Internet and Bulletin boards
e. Obtaining machines: contacts and prices for
f. Obtaining support: Psion addresses worldwide
2. HARDWARE
a. Psion Series 3/3a hardware description
b. Link, hardware and protocol details
c. Power supplies: batteries & mains adaptors
3. HINTS & TIPS FOR GENERAL USE
a. Known problems
4. COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE SOFTWARE, SERVICES & ACCESSORIES
a. Business & Legal
b. Education
c. Leisure & Guides
d. Navigation
e. Communcations
f. Utilities
g. Diet, Health & Safety
h. Time Management
i. Mapping & Surveying
j. Services
k. Books & Accessories
5. SHAREWARE AND FREEWARE
a. Relevant FTP and other sites.
b. Other related ftp sites
c. Summary of available applications; (mini-reviews?)
6. CONNECTING TO OTHER MACHINES
7. PRINTING
8. PROGRAMMING
a. Overview of development possibilities
b. How to do various things/Hints & tricks
I. DISCLAIMER
I have taken steps to ensure that the information included here is
correct, but this document is compiled in spare time for free, and I
cannot resource thorough checking of all its contents. Therefore, I
will not be held responsible for any consequences of your using the
information contained in here. However, I am interested in making the
FAQ as good as it can be, so your constructive feedback is welcome.
II. CREDITS
To create this document I have 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 the
information here is provide by the newsgroup contributors, who are too
numerous to credit individually. I'm just the clerk that put it all in
one place. Special thanks go to Markus Illenseer, who owned the
previous FAQ - from which I have also extracted useful information.
Thanks also to Clive D.W. Feather [clive@sco.com] and Daniel Senie
[dts@world.std.com] for extensive helpful comments on the preliminary
FAQ. Other contributors are credited in the sections they provided
special help in compiling.
III. COPYRIGHT
I assert copyright on this document. It can be freely distributed in
its complete and original form only.
IV. 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?)
a. DON'T BE RUDE. Obvious ? Apparently not. This newsgroup is an
oasis of civilization; 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. Opinions on posting binaries differ. Placing your binaries in
the archive, and referring to them in the newsgroup will not
upset anyone, but it can take a week or so to get there, and it
is more effort. Posting binaries to the group is very fast and
low-effort, but the binary may be of little relevance to most
readers, and it's size may force some un-interested phone bill
payers to spontaneously combust. Use common sense. A short
binary of general interest is probably fine. A 4 Meg GIF of your
mother is not.
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
a. What is the Psion 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. Many other applications are
available commercially and from shareware outlets. More details
elsewhere in the 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.
b. Brief review of older Psion machines
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.
Others To be completed.
c. Comparison of Psion versus other palmtops
A table comparing ther following machines is under construction.
HP1000LX/95LX, Omnibook300, Sharp IQ/QZ/9000, Poquet, Wizard, Newton,
PC3000, ZEOS, Palmbook
d. User groups, CIX, Internet and Bulletin boards available
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 Feather:
clive@sco.com]
When phoning into the UK from outside it, do not dial the first zero in
the number.
Psion BBS Lonely Times
+44 175 289 4422 [UK] +49 911 393 9034 300 [Germany]
14.4 Baud, 24hour
Flightpath
+44 181 759 3332 or Metcom BBS
+44 181 759 6664 [UK] +44 1442 257 527 [UK]
Pacific BBS Crystal Tower
+44 1430 431 145 [UK] +44 817 598 244
Psion is also on CIX - the Palmtop A forum.
e. Obtaining machines: contacts and prices for various countries
Prices for 512K Psion are quoted for each when known.
Marc Tebeka
2661 Emerson Street,
Palo Alto, CA 94306, USA
FAX: +1 415 323 4006 [USA]
EMAIL: marc.tebeka@spacebbs.com Psion3a/512K: 390 dollars
Jonathon Glaser
New World Technologies (USA)
+1 800 886 4967 [USA] Promises best available deal
UK Standard list price Psion 3a/512K: 329 pounds
Various shops in Psion 3a/512K: 270 pounds
Tottenham Court Road, London UK.
Dabs Direct Psion3a/512K 272 pounds
Phone: [UK]
+44 131 556 4114, +44 161 773 8632
+44 1772 623 000, +44 1483 797 474
Fax: +44 1772 622 917, +44 1483 799 510
Byson Computers [UK]
Fax: +44 1635 874 022
Email: ian@byson.demon.co.uk
Clove Technology [UK]
+44 1202 302 796
Rovoreed Ltd [UK]
+44 1981 250 026
Computers Direct [USA]
New Hamphsire +1 1800 222 4070 Psion 3a/512K $399
Official Psion distributor for Australia:
Psitech Ltd
Kangy Angy
+61 4362 2014 email: psitech@cix
f. Obtaining support
Psion Incorporated
555 Virginia Road, Building 5
Concord, MA 02154
USA
+1 800 547 7466 (+1 800 54 PSION)
+1 508 371 0310
+1 508 371 9611 fax
71511.3401@compuserve.com
75300.3133@compuserve.com
GregPaul@aol.com
Psion_c@cix.compulink.co.uk
73733.32@compuserve.com
Psion UK plc via email: Psioncorp@cix.compulink.co.uk
Psion Inc are at +1 508 371 0310 in Concord Mass. USA
In the USA, contact +1 800 54 PSION to order parts.
Psion distributor in Canada is Compulsys in Ville
St-Laurent, Quebec. Phone +1 800 361 0609.
2. HARDWARE
a. Psion Series 3/3a hardware description
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 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.
A sound system implements beeps on the Series 3 through a low power
peizo-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 digitsal phone systems. A Series 3 buzzer
emulation is also available on the 3a.
For both machines, there are two expansion ports into which RAM or EPROM
memory modules may be placed.
In tabular form, the differences are summarised below:
Item Series 3 Series 3a
H A R D W A R E
PROCESSOR
name V30H (80C86 compatible)
Bitwidth 16 16
Speed 3.84 MHz 3.84 MHz
video memory access 8 bit - half speed 16 bit - full speed
MEMORY
Internal 128 and 256Kbyte 256 and 512Kbytes
Expansion 2 slots = 16Meg max 2 slots = 16 Meg max
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 DTFM capability DTFM capability
* Further sounds can be generated if a custom devide driver is written
DISPLAY
Physical size 126 x 45 mm approx
Display size 240x80 480x160
Display depth 2 - black/white 3 - black/grey/white
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
S O F T W A R E
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 Upgrades on Series 3a
application
TIME Clock and alarms manager Upgrades on Series 3a
WORLD World info database Cosmetic U/G 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, the "Series 3s" includes the spreadsheet as standard
OPL Programming application Series 3 compatibility
mode also available.
b. Link, hardware and protocol details
Refer to appendix at the archive.
c. Power supplies: batteries & mains adaptors
Normal power is provided by two AA batteries. Standby power is provided
by a small Lithium backup battery, which maintains system data during
main battery changes or failure.
A Psion mains adaptor is available. Reports suggest that many
general-purpose mains adaptors also work, and they are cheaper.
Negative polarity should be selected - ie the tip should be negative.
The Psion adaptor has an indentation around the outer conductor near the
tip which facilitates snug fit for improved reliability.
NiCad rechargeables may be used. 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 are now available. They are 30% lighter than alkalines,
and they last longer, but they are more expensive.
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.
Alkaline NiCad Lithium
Running time 40-100 20 65-100
(Hrs)
Power delivered 1500 800 1600-2700
(mAh)
Price each 5
(UKP)
Comment 30% lighter
d. Upgrading Solid State Disks (SSDs)
Refer to appendix at the archive.
3. HINTS & TIPS FOR GENERAL USAGE
a. Known problems & solutions
1. BATTERY WARNINGS 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
cludging 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.
2. 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. YThe
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.
3. 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. Psion will repair this in
warranty. You can fix 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 is not a
problem on newer Series 3's or 3a's.
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 lid-damages-battery-wire bug mentioned
elsewhere in this FAQ.
5. 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.
A few people have noted problems with odd pixels, lines, rows or
patches of pixels. IN each case, there is no real fix but to
return the machine for repair or replacement.
6. ALARMS COME IN PAIRS
Several people report that their machine can get into a mode
whereby alarms sounds - and need to be acknowledged - twice. This
problem can be fixed by doing a soft reset.
7. WORLD PHONE NUMBERS WRONG
Apparently, a number of the country codes are wrong. You can fix
by editting 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 is scheduled for the UK in 1994/5.
See the Phoneday item in the archive or on CIX for details and a
suite of programs to fix your databases.
8. AREA CODES CAN CAUSE 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.
9. 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.
b. Entering Unusual Characters
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.
There is also a quicker way to enter letters with accents, umlauts etc.
CONTROL with the number keys is used 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". See the Character
set section of the user guide for details.
c. Resetting the machine
You should not normally need to reset your machine at all. See KILLING
ROGUE PROCESSES 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.
There are two kinds of reset. A SOFT RESET or WARM reset will restart
processes, 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. To do this, hold down the right
shift key whilst appliying your paperclip as for a warm reset.
d. Screen Snapshots
From any point, you can take a screen snapshot, by holding down Psion,
shift, and Control, then pressing S. The PIC file generated is placed
in M:SCREEN.PIC.
4. COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE SOFTWARE
This is the official Psion commercial Software list. Thanks to Psion
for providing it. All telephone numbers are UK unless stated otherwise.
a. BUSINESS & LEGAL
Asset Tracking - Please inquire for price.
from Advanced New Technology +44 182 571 3058
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.
Pocket Publishing - ú49.95
from Hockney Engineers Ltd. +44 113 245 5061
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.
Job Search - Please inquire for price.
from Maritek +44 141 554 2492
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.
Banker - Please inquire for price.
from Pelican Software +1 713 242 8928
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.
DataDeLuxe - ú69.95
from Pocket & Soul +32 3232 3468
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.
Banking Assistant - ú89.95
from Portable Software +44 190 463 3918
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.
Text Assistant - ú89.95
from Portable Software +44 190 463 3918
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.
Sales Assistant - ú89.95
from Portable Software +44 190 463 3918
Integrated order processing, stock control and customer care. Full set
of output documents and management reports. Special versions available
for several industries.
Training Assistant - ú89.95
from Portable Software +44 190 463 3918
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.
Office Assistant - ú89.95
from Portable Software +44 19 463 3918
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.
Contact EDGE - ú116.33
from Total Computer Systems +44 199 257 5151
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.
Finance Pack - ú49.95 for Series 3, ú59.95 for Series 3a.
from Widget Software Ltd. +44 143 881 5444
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.
Agenda Link - Please inquire for price.
from Widget Software Ltd. +44 1438-815-444
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.
Child Support and Legal Aid - Please inquire for price.
from Dodona Ltd. +44 122 264 4131
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.
Helper 3 and Renovator - Please inquire for price.
from Ferret Information Systems Ltd. +44 122 264 4660
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.
b. EDUCATION
Note: The "Acorn Pocket Book" is a re-badged Series 3.
Acorn Schedule - ú19.95
from Acorn Computers Ltd. +44 122 325 4254
Supplied on an SSD ROM card with manual. This combines a diary,
personal organiser and timetable. Also includes the spell checker.
Acorn Plotter - ú35.19
from Acorn Computers Ltd. +44 122 325 4254
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 - ú92.82
from ExpLAN UK Ltd. +44 182 261 3868
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 - ú24.95
from ExpLAN UK Ltd. +44 182 261 3868
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 ú69.95. Network version available.
from ExpLAN UK Ltd. +44 182 261 3868
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.
c. LEISURE & GUIDES
Miscellany - ú34.95
from BroadOak Computing +44 171 836 7640
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.
Papillons - ú34.95
from BroadOak Computing +44 171 836 7640
A crossword-like linked-word game. Links may be anagrams, common
associations of words, homophones, puns, synonyms. Cryptic clues help
you to flit from word to word.
GolfCard - ú69.95 and Analyst - ú25.00
from M-P (Golf) Systems +44 181 394 2049
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.
Games 3 - ú34.95
from Widget Software Ltd. +44 143 881 5444
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.
Paint and Compose - ú69.95
from Widget Software Ltd. +44 143 881 5444
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.
The Greater London Restaurant Guide - 49.95
from Mobile Software +44 181 906 0002
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.
d. NAVIGATION
Air Navigator - ú116.33
from Dolphin Digital +44 120 248 3050
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.
GNAV3 & GNAV3a - ú149.00 (ú249.00 for Pooleys)
from Haggis Computers +44 146 767 1243
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.
LGBK3 & LGBK3a - ú149.00
from Haggis Computers +44 146 767 1243
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.
astroNAVCOMP - From ú149.00
from Intecma Associates +44 184 434 4570
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 +44 141 554 2492
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.
Flight Analyser - Please inquire for price.
from Top of the Stack +44 123 585 0157
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.
Sightmaster 3 - Please inquire for price.
from Dolphin Maritime Software Ltd. +44 172 845 4171
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.
Coastmaster 3 - Please inquire for price.
from Dolphin Maritime Software Ltd. +44 172 845 4171
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.
Stability Draft and Trim 3 - Please inquire for price.
from Dolphin Maritime Software Ltd. +44 172 845 4171
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.
Oil Survey 3 - Please inquire for price.
from Dolphin Maritime Software Ltd. +44 172 845 4171
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.
NAVCOMP - From ú149.00
from Intecma Associates +44 184 434 4570
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 NMEA +44 1183 interface.
Navigator - Please inquire for price.
from Maritek +44 141 554 2492
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.
Nautical Assistant - Please inquire for price.
from Portable Software +44 190 463 3918
Check the European tide tables from the built-in data tables. Numerous
navigational, waypoint and racing calculators included.
e. COMMUNICATIONS
InterData - Please inquire for price.
from Lacegem Ltd. +44 161 792 2871
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.
ESP/3 (Electronic Sales and Purchases for Series 3) - ú75.00
from Oak Software +44 192 681 5041
A communications base using the ESP/Net service which brings customers
and producers together electronically. Additional applications can
easily be written as required.
Waspbox - Please inquire for price.
from Wasp Software Ltd. +44 173 755 5989
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.
Wasp Time Recorder - Please inquire for price.
from Wasp Software Ltd. +44 173 755 5989
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.
Winlink - ú29.99 from Widget Software Ltd. +44 143 881 5444
Winlink makes communicating between a Series 3 or 3a and Windows easy.
You need a Serial Link (RS232) Cable in order to use Winlink.
VT100 Emulator - ú58.75
from Widget Software Ltd. +44 143 881 5444
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.
S3WP - Please inquire for price.
from Point.X +42 224 225 347
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.
dBase Convert - Please inquire for price.
from Point.X +42 224 225 347
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.
S3 Backup - Please inquire for price.
from Point.X +42 224 225 347
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 +31 206 533 033
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.
Series 3 Tools - ú49.95
from Widget Software Ltd. +44 143 881 5444
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.
Commander 3a -Please inquire for price.
from Yellow Computing +49 713 695 1111
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.
f. DIET, HEALTH & SAFETY
Compute-A-Diet - Please inquire for price.
from Comcard Ltd. +44 190 577 8957
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.
Risk MATRIX Assessments - Please inquire for price.
from Advanced New Technology +44 182 571 3058
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 +44 182 571 3058
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.
COSHH Assessments - Please inquire for price.
from Advanced New Technology +44 182 571 3058
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.
Room Safety Checks - Please inquire for price.
from Advanced New Technology +44 182 571 3058
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 +44 182 571 3058
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.
g. TIME MANAGEMENT
G-Tabs - ú99.95
from Gartside Neville Ltd. +44 172 233 3490
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.
Timing Assistant - ú89.95
from Portable Software +44 190 463 3918
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.
Timebase - ú116.33
from Total Computer Systems +44 199 257 5151
Allows a service professional to record time, activity, expenses, costs
and charges electronically. Available in single user form and muti-user
department form. A further version can be linked to existing
departmental time recording or accounts systems using Timebase LINK.
h. MAPPING & SURVEYING
Geographical Database - Please inquire for price.
from Fawnbench Ltd. +44 127 645 1239
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 +44 182 571 3058
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.
Asset Tracker & Portable Appliance Testing - Please inquire for price.
from Surveying Technology +44 171 702 3850
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.
Survey Master Graphique - Please inquire for price.
from Surveying Technology +44 171 702 3850
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.
Condition Survey Master - Please inquire for price.
from Surveying Technology +44 171 702 3850
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.
i. SERVICES
3-Lib +44 125 251 5431
The 3-Lib Series 3/3a Public Domain & Shareware library has been
established since January 1993 and currently has over 300 items
available, for a nominal copying charge. Games, utilities,
applications, programming guides and aides, PC-based tools, for Series 3
and 3a. Catalogue available on request.
Advanced New Technology +44 182 571 3058
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 +44 137 181 0829
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 +44 181 740 0215
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. +44 181 319 8576
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 - +44 175 276 8515
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 ú28.00 per year.
j. BOOKS & ACCESSORIES
First Steps in Programming the Psion Series 3. By Mike Shaw. ú14.95
from Kuma Books Ltd. +44 173 484 4335
Step by step instruction of the programming process of OPL.
Introduction to Using the Psion Series 3.
By Rod Lawton and Issac Davis. ú14.95
from Kuma Books Ltd. +44 173 484 4335
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. ú14.95
from Kuma Books Ltd. +44 173 484 4335
Program planning and writing with many worked examples.
Graphics programming on the Psion Series 3. By Bill Aitken. ú14.95
from Kuma Books Ltd. +44 173 484 4335
Detailed explanations of graphics programming with numerous worked out
examples.
Serious Programming on the Psion Series 3a. By Bill Aitken. ú16.95
from Kuma Books Ltd. +44 173 484 4335
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 +31 757 042 05
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 - ú16.99
from Widget Software Ltd. +44 143 881 5444
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
5. SHAREWARE & FREEWARE
a. Relevant FTP and other sites.
There is a Psion forum in the UK's CIX system, where software can be
obtained, called the Palmtop A forum.
The main Internet Psion archive is in the UK, at: src.doc.ic.ac.uk.
The relevant files are under /packages/psion/icdoc.
HTML: <hhtp://src.doc.ic.ac.uk/packages/psion>
The archive is administered by: Lee McLoughlin:
Lee McLoughlin. Phone: +44 171 594 8388
Dept of Computing, Imperial College, Fax: +44 171 584 8301
180 Queens Gate, London, SW7 2BZ, UK. Email: L.McLoughlin@doc.ic.ac.uk
There are other archives:
ftp.informatik.uni-erlangen.de:pub/psion3/...
http://www.comlab.ox.ac.uk/oucl/users/robin.watts/Docs/
http://alife1.cs.man.ac.uk/psion
(http://130.88.240.101/psion)
Steve Litchfield runs a shareware library in the UK:
3-Lib
Shareware for the Series 3 and Series 3a
SAE for catalogue to:
8 Grove Farm,
Mytchett,
Surrey,
GU16 6AQ, England
6. COMMUNICATIONS
a. MCLINK
MCLINK is 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 runningo n the PC/Mac, the
Series 3 can see host drives as remote drives, and can access the
data on them. Similarly the cammand 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.
b. RCOM
Is a beta version of Psion's replacement for MCLINK. It is
available at the IC archive. It provides the 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.
c. RFM
RFM is also available from the archive (RFM110); itis also 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. The big BUT, is that RFM
will not run under windows which makes it not quite the ultimate
solution it might otherwise be.
d. CONNECTING MODEMS
Psion provide 3FAX, which is a hardware and software add-on
offering FAX capability and a data modem operating at 2400 baud.
The 3-Link cable/software offers a standard serial interface
through which standard modems can be connected, operating up to the
Series 3a limit of 19.2K (9.6K for the Series3).
Paraphrasing "Lord John" - w0400@ggr.co.uk:
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. 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 @ ernstk@delphi.com notes:
The Psion Modem Adapter (cable), Partnumber 055856, is wired like
this:
Pin name Pin number Direction DB-25
Mini-Din Series3 - Other
DCD 1 <------------- 8
RD 2 <------------- 3
TD 3 -------------> 2
DTR 4 -------------> 20
SG 5 -------------- 7
DSR 6 <------------- 6
RTS 7 -------------> 4
CTS 8 <------------- 5
RI 9 <------------- 22
FG shield -------------- 1
e. TERMINAL EMULATION
The 3-link cable software includes a dumb terminal emulation. VT100
emulators are also available. There are two in the Imperial archive:
term122s.zip VT100 emulator from Psion GmbH
vt100v2a.zip VT100 emulator from Widget
- these are crippled versions of commercial products.
7. PRINTING
There are a number of ways you can print from your Psion
a. Through teh prallel link, connect your Psion directly to your
printer.
b. Use PRINT SETUP to Set printing to be 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. [Daniel Senie - dts@world.std.com]
c. Use RFM (see elsewhere in the FAQ) to make Psion drives visible,
then use a conventional PC tool to print files from the Psion.
8. PROGRAMMING
a. 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.
I. 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.
Some alleviators:
i. A database of the OPL commands is available from the Imperial
archive (see section 5) which you can load into the built-in DATA
application.
ii. Switching off the clock in the OPL editor will give you more
active screen width. CONTROL/menu toggles this.
iii. CONTROL/Word takes you straight to the OPL editor from the system
screen.
You can also make use of some of the data which follows in this section,
so read on.
II. 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 S3ATRA from the
Imperial archive (Section 5). S3ATRA 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, S3ATRA understyands 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.
There is a Psion 3 emulator for the Series 3, available in the archive,
which allows you to run OPL programs on the PC. There is also an
emulator for the Series 3a but this has been withdrawn by Psion for
reasons which are not clear.
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 [clive@sco.com] is widely appreciated for having taken the time
to bring this information to the Psion community.
Psion offer Software Development Kits - "SDKs". The lowest level is the
documentation-only level. This currently includes three 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 programms. 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.
III. 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 Epoch operating system.
Object-oriented programming is possible in this C environment.
IV. 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.
b. How to do various things/Hints & tricks
<To be complete>
END
.