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1994-02-25
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┌───────┐ ┌───────┐
│ │ │ │
│ ┌────┘ │ ┌────┘
│ │ ┌─────┐ ┌─────┐ ┌─────┐ │ │ ┌─┐ ┌─┐ ┌─────┐
│ └──┐ │ ┌─┐ │ │ ┌───┘ └─┐ ┌─┘ │ └──┐ │ │ │ │ │ ┌───┘
│ │ │ └─┘ │ │ └───┐ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ └──┐
│ ┌──┘ │ ┌─┐ │ └───┐ │ │ │ │ ┌──┘ │ │ │ │ │ ┌──┘
│ │ │ │ │ │ ┌───┘ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ │ └───┐ │ └───┐
└──┘ └─┘ └─┘ └─────┘ └─┘ └──┘ └─┘ └─────┘ └─────┘
for RemoteAccess
A RemoteAccess filedoor and filemanager written by
Richard Skalsky & Hakan Akerberg
Copyright (c) 1993, 1994 R.H. Creative Computer Software
SYSOP GUIDE
FASTFILE FOR RA 0.02ß (WIDEBETA 2) - 1994-02-25
INDEX
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Copyright and trademarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Guarantee and Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
REGISTRATION
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Fee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
INSTALLATION
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Configuring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
How to invoke FastFile from BBS . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
System start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
FFSTART.HLP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
FastFile start parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
DESCRIPTION OF FUNCTIONS
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Group menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Area menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
FastAreaChange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
File menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Long file descriptions, Information files . . . . . . . 30
Tagging files for download . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Download . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
FILES.FF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
DOWNLOAD.BAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Upload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
UPLOAD.BAT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Locate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Chat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
ScreenColor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
ChangeTimeMode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
OnlineHelp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Redraw . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Quit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
SYSOP FUNCTIONS
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Edit (F4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
RawDir, MakeDir (F2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Move (F6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Delete (F8) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
AddFile (F7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Copy (F5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
1
ChangeLimits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Lock (Alt-L) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
DOSShell (Alt-J) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
OTHER
Multitasking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Batch files, examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
YELLCONV.EXE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
MultiNode Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Special Acknowledgements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
PackList (FFRA02WB.ARJ) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
2
Copyright and trademarks
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
RemoteAccess Andrew Milner and Wantree Development
SuperBBS SuperBBS group (AA & RV)
ProBoard Philippe Leybaert
DESQview Quarterdeck Office Systems
IBM International Business Machines
OS/2 International Business Machines
MS-DOS Microsoft Corporation
Windows Microsoft Corporation
X00 Ray Gwinn
BNU David Nugent
DSZ Omen Technology Inc
GSZ Omen Technology Inc
FidoNet Tom Jennings
HS/Link Samuel H. Smith
BiModem Erik Labs
ProcommPlus Datastorm Technologies Inc
Telix deltaComm Development
Telemate White River Software
FrontDoor Joaquim Homrighausen
PKZIP PKWARE Inc.
LHA Haruyasu Yoshizaki
ARJ Robert K. Jung
SQZ J. I. Hammarberg
3
Background
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Why should it be that complicated to download files from a BBS?
Is it really necessary with all those jumps between the area menu,
the file menu and the file lists? And when you at last have found
the files of interest - you have to choose a protocol and name the
files to download. It doesn't make it any easier when the files
have awkward names such as PCWL103B.ARJ. Does it have to be that
complicated?
During summer 1991 I met Hakan Akerberg. He was just as interested
in PCs, programming, modems and BBSs as I was. Neither one of us
had seen a BBS where the procedures were as simple as we had
wanted. There were certainly programs where you could tag files
but those programs could not be used for downloading the files.
Instead you were forced to return to the file menu and start
another program for the file transfer.
Hakan suggested that we together should write the perfect file
door. It couldn't be too difficult, simply tagging the files and
then automatically starting an external protocol for the file
transfer. A few weeks job maybe...
Hakan started with the routines for listing files and I with the
routines for ANSI sequences and the main menu. After two weeks of
work we had made a program with features for tagging files
directly in the file list and for downloading. But by then we had
got more ideas. Why not implement a feature for viewing text?
While doing this we could just as well implement an archive-
viewer at the same time. A locate feature would be useful and why
not a split-screen chat mode?
Some improvements for the SysOp would also be a good idea. We
implemented a couple of features for administrating the file-lists
in the BBS as well.
Over a year later and after a number of closed beta releases had
been tested by a 20 man strong team, the first WideBeta version of
FastFile was released in January 1993. This version was designed
for use with RemoteAccess 1.11, SuperBBS and ProBoard BBS, and
soon created considerable interest from users. We received many
letters and file requests from all over the world.
After two WideBeta releases we were almost ready to release
FastFile 1.0 when, during the spring of 1993, RemoteAccess version
2.00.g1 suddenly appeared. The entire file system had been
redesigned in this release and it became quickly apparent that
FastFile 1.0 would not work together with this new version of
RemoteAccess - thanks Andrew ... :-)
We soon began to receive letters desiring a new version of
FastFile adapted for RemoteAccess 2.0x ...
So here it is - after almost another year's work - the first
WideBeta version of FastFile for RA !! This version of FastFile is
intended for use only with RemoteAccess 2.0x.
4
FastFile for RA has the same user interface as FastFile but under
this exterior nothing is the same. Almost all code has been
rewritten and it now consists of some 25 modules and approximately
8000 lines of code. As a result of this amount of code, we have
also been forced to change our development system. The new code is
for the most part divided into threads which allows, for example,
file reading to take place as background activity while the user
continues in foreground !! This can be noticed in the revised
locate function - FastFile searches for files in background while
the user can continue to page file lists and tag files.
FastFile is a filedoor containing all the features which one can
find in the file menu of most BBS's plus much more ! It also
contains a powerful file manager for maintaining RAs filedatabase.
Many thanks to ALL users of FastFile. We have not had time to
reply to all the letters that we have received but we have been
proud to read all the Net- and Crash- mail sent to our BBS.
Without this fantastic response, FastFile for RA would never have
been a reality ... ** Thanks **
We also like to thank our incredible *beta-team* and all other
persons who came up with good ideas, sent bug reports, lent us
hardware and kept us working many nights :-). Thanx guys !!
** Robert Burgess and family, Leffe Forsstrom, Johan Fernberger,
Roger Persson, Leif Mortenssen, Henry Dahl, Dan Stark and more **
Richard Skalsky - Stockholm, Sweden
5
General
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
FastFile for RA is a filedoor and filemanager for RemoteAccess 2.0.
The program is built around a "graphic" user interface which makes
usage simple. It is for example possible to tag files in the lists
by using the cursor positioning keys and space. Transfer of the
tagged files is then initiated by the user pressing "Ctrl-Z" or
"D" and "Z" for ZModem download.
Using FastFile requires that ANSI emulation is handled by the
user's communication program - for example Telemate, FrontDoor,
ProComm Plus and Telix.
Since FastFile transmits many ANSI sequences the modem speed
should be at least 2400 BPS. Otherwise it will be experienced as
slow.
FastFile contains *all* the features usually found in the file
menu on most BBS's!
The most important features are:
------------------------------------------------------------------
- Changearea and FastAreaChange.
Choose an area from an area list or use the FastAreaChange
feature from a file list.
- FileTagging.
Tag files for download from file lists, the locate list or Raw
Dir. It is also possible to tag single files in an archive !
- Upload and Download.
No file transfer protocols are embedded. You can easily install
any number of external protocols. FF.CTL included in the
FastFile archive contains the commands for DSZ or GSZ 10-15-91,
HSLink 1.0 and Bimodem 1.24.
- Locate.
Search filenames, descriptions or new files. Tag files in the
located files list and download!
- TXTView.
Displays text files online. Even archived text files can be read
online.
- ARCView.
Lists files saved in ARJ, ZIP, LHA, LZH and other archives.
- GIFView.
Displays information about GIF pictures. Colors, resolution.
- MODView.
Displays information about MODules.
- ChatMode.
Split-Screen ChatMode. Internal chat feature for user and SysOp.
FastFile can also be started directly in chat mode and may
thereby be used as an external chat program.
6
- Help.
Online Helpscreens. Just press F1 or H for selectiv help.
- Long Descriptions.
For the sake of clearness the file lists displays only one line
of the file description. But just one keystroke and FastFile
displays file descriptions which are up to 15 lines long.
- NewFilesSearch.
Displays new files that have been received since the previous
logon. FastFile may also be started in the NewFilesSearch
mode and may thereby be used as an external NewFiles program.
- Download Counter.
Counts the downloads in a configurable format.
- MonoBaud.
Runs FastFile in a black/white display mode when used below a
configured (in FF.CTL) baud rate.
- DownloadDescription.
FF can optionally send a list with descriptions of the files
downloaded by the user.
- VirusCheck.
After an UL/DL FF can automatically start a BAT file. This BAT
file can be used for virus checking uploaded files or creating a
log containing the name of the user who uploaded the file.
- DL Ratio.
Checks the up-/download ratio.
- MultiNode.
FastFile also works on multinode BBSs.
- DOS-Shell.
FastFile has a SysOps DOS SHELL.
7
Important SysOp-features:
------------------------------------------------------------------
(LOCAL AND REMOTE)
- EditFile.
Edit file descriptions in the files list.
- RawDir.
Display all the files in a path. The files in raw dir can
also be Downloaded, Viewed, Moved, Copied, Deleted etc.
- MoveFile.
Move files between file areas or to / from raw dir. Files inside
archives can also be moved to fileareas or rawdir !!
- CopyFile.
Copy files between file areas or to / from raw dir. Files inside
archives can also be copied to file areas or rawdir !!
- DeleteFile.
Delete files on the hard disk and / or in RA's file database.
- AddFile.
Add all or some of the files in a directory to RAs filedatabase.
- Import FILE_ID.DIZ.
Import file descriptions to RA's file database.
- ShowInformation.
Display information about harddisk space, paths etc.
(LOCAL)
- ChangeLimits.
Temporarily change the user's time- and download limits.
- Lock.
Lock the user's keyboard.
- Capture.
Save the screen to a file during a chat.
------------------------------------------------------------------
For further descriptions of each feature see later in this manual!
------------------------------------------------------------------
8
Guarantee and Support
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
We have been testing this program for 3 months without finding any
serious bugs. But we cant guarantee that the program works without
errors on your computer. Use the program at your own risk!
If you have any problems or questions, call one of our support
BBSs from which you can also download the latest FastFile version
using Filerequest - FASTFILE or FF.
You can also reach us through Fidonet RA_UTIL (international) or
R20_FASTFILE (only within Sweden) echo. Address your letter to
Richard Skalsky or Hakan Akerberg.
You are also welcome to send crashmail to our support sites:
╒════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╕
│ FastFile Development Center │
├────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ SysOp: Richard Skalsky │
│ Stockholm Sweden │
│ +46 8 7595169 FidoNet: 2:201/284 │
╘════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╛
╒════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╕
│ The Wizard's Head │
├────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ SysOp: Robert Burgess │
│ Stockholm Sweden │
│ +46 8 6041712 FidoNet: 2:201/352 │
╘════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╛
╒════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╕
│ Nalle Puh BBS │
├────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ SysOp: Henry Dahl │
│ Stockholm Sweden │
│ +46 8 6116043 FidoNet: 2:201/410 │
╘════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╛
9
Registration
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
FastFile is a _SHAREWARE_ program. This means that the program may
be downloaded from a BBS and be tested for 1 month without any fee.
If you then wish to continue using the program you _MUST_
register and pay a small fee. Then you will receive a personal
registration code which should be written into FF.CTL. This code
enables you to use additional registration features of FastFile.
These extra features are listed below, and also indicated by
{+} later in the manual. You will be able to use this registration
code in future releases of FastFile without additional cost. A
registered user will also have the opportunity of valuating newer
beta-versions of FastFile. Those beta-versions will only be
possible to use by registered users.
FastFile is copyright protected by R.H. Creative Computer Software
R.H. Creative Computer Software guarantees neither further develop
ment nor support of FastFile. Development of new versions of Fast-
File will depend on the number of users registering this version.
You may NEITHER modify FastFile NOR include FastFile as a part of
any other software or CD-ROM package without the written
permission of R.H. Creative Computer Software.
You may NOT use a registration key that has not been obtained from
the registration agency R.H. Creative Computer Software.
You may copy and distribute unregistered versions of FastFile,
on condition that you do NOT charge anything for this. The files
within the FastFile archive may NOT be forwarded separately, only
the entire archive may be copied and distributed.
Registration features
─────────────────────
The following *Extra* features are available when FastFile has
been registered and the personal registration code entered.
- All SysOp-features can be used remotely.
- FastFile events can be logged on a printer connected to a
communications port.
- The possibility exists to use future ßeta versions of FastFile.
- By the SysOp selected headers can be put into FILES.FF.
- FastFile displays upon termination the names of the BBS and the
SysOp and that the program is registered thus:
- FastFile for RA Copyright (c) 1993, Creative Computer Software
- Registered to Richard Skalsky FastFile Development Center.
10
Registration costs
──────────────────
The registration fee for the program depends on the BBS environ-
ment - commercial or private - in which it is used. A private BBS
is one physically located in a private household where NO type of
commercial activity is practised, and where the BBS itself is
operated by a private person. Other systems are to be regarded as
commercial and MUST be registered as such. A separate registration
is required for each installation of the program, with exception
for MultiLine systems which require only one registration provided
that all nodes use the same BBS and SysOp names.
╒════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╕
│ Registration costs per installation │
├────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ Commercial: $150, (ca 1080SEK, 100GBP, 240DM). │
│ Private : $35, (ca 250SEK, 23GBP, 55DM). │
╘════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╛
╒════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╕
│ Registration via American Express and Mail (All countries) │
├────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ Alt 1. Mail, send the registration form to: │
│ │
│ R.H. Creative Computer Software │
│ c/o Richard Skalsky │
│ Industrigatan 14 │
│ S-112 46 STOCKHOLM. SWEDEN │
│ │
│ │
│ │
│ Crashmail: FastFile DC BBS 2:201/284, +46 8 759 51 69 │
│ │
│ │
│ Alt 2. Register online by calling "FastFile DC BBS" │
│ Choose "Register FastFile" in the main menu. │
│ │
│ FastFile DC BBS 2:201/284, +46 8 759 51 69 │
│ │
╘════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╛
╒════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╕
│ Registration by Post, Postgiro, Bankgiro, invoice │
├────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────┤
│ Alt 1. Mail or transmit the registration form to : │
│ │
│ R.H. Creative Computer Software │
│ c/o Richard Skalsky │
│ Industrigatan 14 │
│ S-112 46 STOCKHOLM. SWEDEN │
│ │
│ │
│ │
│ FastFile DC BBS 2:201/284, +46 8 759 51 69 │
│ │
│ POSTGIRO 436 67 12-0 BANKGIRO 5852-4430 │
│ │
│ Alt 2. Register online (get invoice) by calling FastFile DC. │
│ Choose "Register FastFile" from the main menu. │
│ │
╘════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╛
11
REGISTRATION FORM
SysOp Name _______________________________________________________
BBS Name _______________________________________________________
(This information must be EXACTLY that which you have written in
your BBS software configuration. Your personal code is compiled
using that information so it is necessary that it is correct !!)
Node number _____________ BBS telephone number _________________
Voice telephone number ______________ Fax number _______________
Post Address :
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Comments:
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
[ ] I wish to register FastFile for $35.
[ ] I wish to pay by check, $10 additional fee !
( ) I have sent the registration fee by post.
( ) I have paid the registration fee to Postgiro account
4366712-0.
( ) I have paid the registration fee to Bankgiro account
5852-4430.
( ) I wish to be invoiced (only within Sweden).
( ) I wish to pay using American Express.
Card number __________________________________________________
Card's expiration date _______________________________________
CITY/DATE ________________________________________________________
SIGNATURE ________________________________________________________
12
Installation
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
To use FastFile you need an IBM 286 or above compatible computer
and DOS 3.3 or later. FastFile can also be used with OS/2 2.x or
Desqview.
In addition to DOS you need to have installed a copy of Remote-
Access 2.0x together with a FOSSIL driver.
A FOSSIL driver is a memory resident program that FastFile uses to
communicate with the modem. FastFile has been tested with two
FOSSIL drivers, Ray Gwinn's X00 and David Nugent's BNU. Remote-
Access, BNU, X00, GSZ and DSZ can be downloaded from most BBSs.
Follow these instructions to install FastFile assuming that you
have previously installed the BBS system and a Fossil driver.
Steps with the number within parentheses, (), are not essential
but recommended.
1. Create a new directory for FastFile on your hard disk. That
directory is referred to as the FastFile system directory in
what follows. Example: C:\FASTFILE.
2. Copy all files in the FastFile archive to that directory.
3. Create a new directory for GSZ or DSZ on your hard disk. GSZ is
recommended for its graphic capabilities. Example: C:\GSZ.
4. Copy all files pertaining to GSZ to that directory.
(5). Include the FastFile system directory in the PATH directive in
AUTOEXEC.BAT. Example: PATH C:\DOS;C:\FASTFILE
6. Add the line "SET FASTFILE=[FASTFILE SYSTEM DIRECTORY]" to your
AUTOEXEC.BAT. Example: SET FASTFILE=C:\FASTFILE
---------------------------------------------------------------
Note: Skip the instruction #6 if your BBS uses several nodes !
---------------------------------------------------------------
7. Add the line SET DSZLOG=\path\GSZLOG.TXT to AUTOEXEC.BAT.
Example: SET DSZLOG=C:\GSZ\GSZLOG.TXT.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Note: !!!!!!! "SET DSZLOG=" applies even if you use GSZ !!!!!!!
---------------------------------------------------------------
8. Place the archive programs PKUNZIP, ARJ, ZIP, LHA etc. in a
directory named on the PATH command in AUTOEXEC.BAT.
Ex. C:\DOS
If you wish to use HSLINK and/or BIModem then create directories
for those on your hard disk and copy the corresponding files
to these directories.
13
Configuration
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The ASCII file FF.CTL is used to configure FastFile. FF.CTL may be
edited using a standard text editor or FFCONFIG.EXE. The following
codes can be used in FF.CTL within chat sequences and protocol
commands.
------------------------------------------------------------------
*B - Baud Rate *P - Com Port
*N - File Name UL/DL (Not Batch) *C - TMPFile (FileList for Batch)
*A - User's Name *L - User's Location
*S - SysOp's Name *F - SysOp's Christian Name.
*T - User's Time Remaining *D - User's DownLoad Limit
*I - Date (Todays date) *K - Time
*E - Enter *U - UpLoad Path
------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------- FF.CTL -----------------------------
FFPath =
Path to FastFile directory on the hard disk.
Ex. FFPath = C:\FASTFILE\
-----
BBSPath =
Path to FILES.RA (RemoteAccess path)
Ex. BBSPath = C:\RA\
-----
NodePath =
Used in systems with several nodes. This path points to the
directory where EXITINFO.BBS and DORINFO1.DEF reside for the
actual node and "BBSPath =" points to the directory where the file
area file, FILES.RA resides.
Since EXITINFO.BBS and DORINFO1.DEF reside in different direct-
ories for each node, an FF.CTL file must be created for each node
and described by a node path. The only difference between these
FF.CTL files is the "NodePath=" information.
FastFile has to be started from the NodePath directory in order
to determine the FF.CTL file to use.
------------------------------------------------------------------
"SET FASTFILE=" must NOT be present in systems with several nodes!
------------------------------------------------------------------
Ex. NodePath = C:\RA\LINE2\
14
TempPath =
Temporary path used by FastFile to unpack archives.
Ex. TempPath = C:\UNPACK\
-----
UploadArea =
Number of area where all uploaded files are to be saved.
If upload path is not used, FastFile checks in FILES.RA for
upload security.
Ex. UploadArea = 1
%UploadArea = 1
-----
LogFile =
Path and name of the file where events in FastFile are logged.
Ex. C:\LOG\FASTFILE.LOG or C:\RA\RA.LOG
-----
LogPrint =
{+} The device name for the printer log. Operational only if
FastFile has been registered.
Ex. LogPrint = LPT1:
%LogPrint = LPT1: To turn off printer logging.
-----
LogLevel =
Determines the amount of information logged to the log file and on
the log printer.
0 - Only errors, 1 - Normal, 2 - Full.
Ex. LogLevel = 2
-----
SysOpSec =
The security level required in order to be able to use SysOp
features in FastFile.
Ex. SysOpSec = 100
15
MonoBaud =
In order to maintain an acceptable display updaterate in FastFile,
a minimum data transfer rate can be specified. If FastFile is
used at this transfer rate or slower then the screen will be
accessed in monochrome mode.
Ex. MonoBaud = 1200
FastFile will produce a black/white display if the user has
a modem with maximum Baud rate 1200. The user can change to
a color display if he so wishes by pressing W.
Note: This applies only for remote use, local use is always
with color display.
-----
LockBaud =
Locks FastFile to use the specified baud rate. Must be used if
the FOSSIL driver is locked.
Ex. LockBaud = 19200
-----
RegKey =
Specifies the personal registration code received on registering
FastFile.
Ex. RegKey = 12345-A2341694FF44G12274MQ3
%RegKey =
-----
F1 = , F2 =, F3 =, F4 =
Specify the text to be output when the corresponding function
key is pressed during chats.
Ex. F1 = Bye *A, see you later...
F2 = Hi *A, I can see that you are from *L.
F3 = The time is now *K and the date is *I.
-----
CTL-Enter =
Specifies the text to be output when Ctrl-Enter is pressed in
chat mode.
Ex. CTL-Enter = :-)
CTL-Enter = :-) *E
16
ALT-Enter =
Specifies the text to be output when Alt-Enter is pressed in chat
mode. (Does not usually work under Windows.)
Ex. ALT-Enter = :-(
ALT-Enter = :-( *E
-----
ChatLine =
Specifies the text to be output in the SysOp window when entering
chat mode.
Ex. ChatLine = Hi *A !!
-----
ChatESC =
Specifies whether the user can terminate a chat by using ESC.
Default = NO.
Ex. ChatESC = YES
-----
ChatName =
Determines if the user's and SysOp's names will be displayed in
the respective window frames instead of "User Window" and "SysOp
Window".
Ex. ChatName = YES
Display SysOp's and user's names in chat mode.
-----
Scroll =
Specifies how many lines will remain in the chat window after a
scroll.
Ex. Scroll = 3
-----
GroupMenu =
Specifies if FastFile should use a group menu or not.
Ex. GroupMenu = NO
17
DLBatMsg =
Specifies the text displayed to the user while FastFile is
performing the DOWNLOAD.BAT file after downloading files.
Ex. DLBatMsg = Running Bat file, wait ...
-----
ULBatMsg =
Specifies the text displayed to the user while FastFile is
performing the UPLOAD.BAT file after uploading files.
Ex. ULBatMsg = Scanning for virus, wait ...
-----
JumpDos =
Specifies the text displayed to the user when SysOp exits to DOS
via ALT-J.
Ex. JumpDos = SysOp to DOS, wait ...
18
Missing =
Specifies the text displayed, instead of the file size, if a file
in RAs file database is not present in the corresponding directory.
Ex. Missing = Deleted
-----
NotHome =
Specifies the text displayed when the SysOp doesn't reply to a
chat request.
Ex. NotHome = SysOp is not home now !!
-----
CheckCarrier =
Turns on or off control of Carrier Detect. Specify OFF if you
run FastFile via modemless cable between two systems.
CheckCarrier = NO
-----
TMPFile =
Specifies the name of the TMP file that FastFile uses to record
the names of the files to be fetched using a batch protocol such
as ZMODEM or HS/LINK.
Ex. TMPFile = FASTFILE.TMP
-----
19
********************* File transfer protocol *********************
FastFile's external transfer protocols are configured as follows -
PROTOCOL =
Specifies the name of the protocol that will be displayed in the
download window in FastFile. An asterisk before the name specifies
that FastFile is to show the download time in the information line
Ex. PROTOCOL = *ZModem
PROTOCOL = YModem
--
Key
Specifies the key to be used to start a download using this
protocol.
Ex. Key Z
--
Batch
Determines whether this is a batch protocol.
Ex. Batch YES
--
DnLoad
Specifies the command that FastFile sends to the protocol in order
to start the download.
Ex. DnLoad C:\GSZ\GSZ speed *B port *P sz @*C
If the COM port is locked to a fixed speed then 'speed *B'
should be replaced by, for example, 'speed 19200'.
--
UpLoad
Specifies the command that FastFile sends to the protocol in order
to start the upload.
Ex. UpLoad C:\GSZ\GSZ speed *B port *P pd0 rx *N
If the COM port is locked to a fixed speed then 'speed *B'
should be replaced by, for example. 'speed 19200'.
20
DnL-Log
Specifies for FastFile the character in the DSZ log which is to be
interpreted as meaning successful download.
Ex. DnL-Log z
"z" is the first character written to the DSZ/GSZ log when
ZMODEM is used for downloads.
--
UpL-Log
Specifies for FastFile the character in the DSZ log which is to be
interpreted as meaning successful upload.
Ex. UpL-Log Z
"Z" is the first character written to the DSZ/GSZ log when
ZMODEM is used for uploads.
--
CPS2400
Specifies the characters per second rate that the protocol
achieves at 2400 Baud.
Ex. CPS2400 230
--
END PROTOCOL
Terminates each protocol configuration. Must be present !!!!
Ex. END PROTOCOL
21
Starting FastFile from the BBS program
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
In order to start FastFile from RemoteAccess a new menu alter-
native should be added.
1. Start RACONFIG.
2. Add a new alternative to the menu from which FastFile should be
invoked thus:
---------------------------------------------------------------
User display = FastFile
Action = Execute sub-program (Type 7)
Data = C:\FASTFILE\FASTFILE.EXE *M
Hot-Key = F
---------------------------------------------------------------
The user can now start FastFile by pressing "F" from that menu.
22
System start
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
FastFile reads four BBS system files when started:
DORINFO1.DEF
------------
Contains information on users (names, surnames, modem speeds etc.)
EXITINFO.BBS
------------
More user information (Downloadlimit, Uploadlimit, Wantchat etc.)
FILES.RA
--------
Information on all file areas (paths, names, security etc.)
LIMITS.RA
---------
Download ratios.
When FastFile is started in local mode (/L), then only the file
FILES.RA is read.
FFSTART.HLP
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
When invoked FastFile first reads DORINFO1.DEF, EXITINFO.BBS,
FILES.RA and LIMITS.CTL then FFSTART.HLP is displayed assuming it
is present in the FastFile system path.
FFSTART.HLP is an file showing "QuickHelp - How to use FastFile"
explaining the elementary features of FastFile. The user can break
displaying by any keystroke.
23
Different methods to invoke FastFile
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
There are several different methods to invoke FastFile. The most
common is using the command "FASTFILE". FastFile can also be
started in Chat mode, as New Files Search, Local and NoCarrier
modes by including switches in the FASTFILE start command thus:
CHAT-LOCAL (/CL)
----------------
Used to start FastFile directly in chat mode. Example - configure
your BBS program to execute the command "FASTFILE /CL" by pressing
ALT-F2. FastFile can then be started in chatmode by the SysOp
pressing ALT-F2 when the user is online.
CHAT-REMOTE (/CR)
-----------------
Used to start FastFile in remote chat mode. /CR is similar to /CL,
except that FastFile "yells" for SysOp when /CR is used.
A new alternative should be included in the main menu thus:
------------------------------------------------------------------
User display = Yell for SysOp
Action = Execute sub-program (Type 7)
Data = C:\FASTFILE\FASTFILE.EXE /CR *M
Hot-Key = Y
------------------------------------------------------------------
A user can now call SysOp in FastFile remote chat mode by pressing
"Y" in the main menu.
LOCAL (/L)
----------
Used to start FastFile in local mode. This can be used, for
example, in order to use FastFile's SysOp-features without
first logging to the BBS locally.
When FastFile is used in local mode, the files DORINFO1.DEF,
EXITINFO.BBS, LIMITS.RA and the FOSSIL driver are not used.
24
NEW FILES SEARCH (/NF)
----------------------
Used to start FastFile in new files search mode. FastFile then
displays all the new files which have been added since the user's
last logon. File names are listed and the user has the opportunity
to tag files for downloading.
NO CARRIER DETECT (/NC)
-----------------------
Turn off the check on carrier detect. Used if FastFile is used
between two systems connected by a null-modem cable.
HELP (/?)
---------
Displays the FastFile version number, copyright information and
all the available switches.
Examples of the different ways to invoke FastFile
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
FASTFILE
Starts FastFile in normal mode.
FASTFILE /L
Starts FastFile in local mode.
FASTFILE /NF /NC
Starts FastFile in new files search mode and without control of
carrier detect.
FASTFILE /CR
Starts FastFile in remote chat mode.
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Those parameters may be combined in a logical manner.
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
25
DESCRIPTION OF KEY FUNCTIONS
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Key descriptions
────────────────
The following table shows the keys and ESC-sequences that are used
to control FastFile both locally and remotely.
╒════════════╤═══════════════╤═══════════════════════════════════╕
│ Key │ ASCII Sequence│ Description │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ │ │ ARROW KEYS │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ Up │ 27+91+65 │ Move cursor up │
│ 8 │ 56 │ │
│ Down │ 27+91+66 │ Move cursor down │
│ 2 │ 50 │ │
│ Right │ 27+91+67 │ Next file area (in file list) │
│ 6 │ 54 │ │
│ Left │ 27+91+68 │ Previous file area (in file list) │
│ 4 │ 52 │ │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ │ │ OTHER POSITIONING KEYS │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ PgUp │ 27+91+80 │ Previous page in the file list │
│ 9 │ 57 │ │
│ - │ 45 │ │
│ │ │ │
│ PgDn │ 27+91+78 │ Next page in the file list │
│ 3 │ 51 │ │
│ + │ 43 │ │
│ Enter │ 13 │ │
│ │ │ │
│ Home │ 27+91+72 │ First file in current page or - │
│ │ │ first file in the file list │
│ 7 │ 55 │ │
│ │ │ │
│ │ │ │
│ End │ 27+91+75 │ Last file in current page or - │
│ │ │ last file in the file list │
│ 1 │ 49 │ │
│ │ │ │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ │ │ TAGGING FILES │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ Insert │ 27+91+83 │ Tag one file in the file list │
│ 0 │ 48 │ │
│ Space │ 32 │ │
│ T │ 84 │ │
│ * │ 42 │ Show all tagged files │
│ / │ 47 │ Remove all file tags │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ │ │ FAST AREA CHANGE │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ F │ 70 │ Fast Area Change (in file list) │
│ Del │ 127 │ │
│ , │ 44 │ │
│ Backspace │ 08 │ Remove last typed character │
└────────────┴───────────────┴───────────────────────────────────┘
26
╒════════════╤═══════════════╤═══════════════════════════════════╕
│ Key │ ASCII Sequence│ Description │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ │ │ FUNCTIONAL KEYS │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ A │ 65 │ Area menu - show area menu │
│ L │ 76 │ Locate - file name/description│
│ T │ 84 │ Tag File - tag file │
│ U │ 85 │ Upload - upload file │
│ D │ 68 │ Download - download file │
│ CTRL-X │ 24 │ Download - Xmodem download │
│ CTRL-Y │ 25 │ Download - Ymodem download │
│ CTRL-Z │ 26 │ Download - Zmodem download │
│ V │ 86 │ View - ARCHIVE,TXT,GIF,MOD │
│ I │ 73 │ File Info - show long filedesc. │
│ Y │ 89 │ Chat mode - call SysOp │
│ W │ 87 │ Color/Mono - choose color/mono │
│ S │ 83 │ Stop list - stop file list │
│ H │ 72 │ Help - show help display │
│ R │ 82 │ Redraw - refresh display │
│ N │ 78 │ NewFiles - Search for new files │
│ M │ 77 │ ChangeTime - choose time mode │
│ $ │ 36 │ Information- show system info. │
│ Q │ 81 │ Quit - terminate FastFile │
│ G │ 71 │ Goodbye - terminate FastFile │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ │ │ FUNCTIONS IN CHAT MODE │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ F9 │ local only │ Start Chatmode │
│ ESC │ 27 │ Stop Chatmode │
│ │ │ │
│ F1 │ local only │ Insert F1 text defined in FF.CTL │
│ F2 │ local only │ Insert F2 text defined in FF.CTL │
│ F3 │ local only │ Insert F3 text defined in FF.CTL │
│ F4 │ local only │ Insert F4 text defined in FF.CTL │
│ F5 │ local only │ Insert SysOp's name │
│ F6 │ local only │ Insert User's name │
│ F7 │ local only │ Insert current date │
│ F8 │ local only │ Insert current time │
│ CTRL-ENTER │ local only │ Insert text defined in FF.CTL │
│ ALT- ENTER │ local only │ Insert text defined in FF.CTL │
│ │ │ │
│ CTRL-C │ 03 │ Erase Chat-window │
│ ALT- W │ local only │ Jump between user/SysOp windows │
│ ALT- F │ local only │ Jump from chat to area menu │
│ ALT- C │ local only │ Capture, dump screen to file │
│ SCROLL LOCK│ local only │ Turn off Yell sound │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ │ │ SYSOP FUNCTIONS - GENERAL │
├────────────┼───────────────┼───────────────────────────────────┤
│ F9 │ local only │ Start Chatmode │
│ F10 │ local only │ Terminate FastFile │
│ ? │ 63 │ Show help-line (SysOp-features) │
│ ALT-L │ local only │ LockOut. Lock user's keyboard │
│ ALT-H │ local only │ Terminate FastFile │
│ ALT-J │ local only │ DOS-Shell │
└────────────┴───────────────┴───────────────────────────────────┘
27
╒════════════╤═══════════════╤══════════════════════════════════╕
│ │ │ SYSOP FUNCTIONS │
├────────────┼───────────────┼──────────────────────────────────┤
│ F1 │ 27+79+80 │ HELP. Show selective help │
│ │ │ │
│ F2 │ 27+79+81 │ RAWDIR. Show all files in │
│ │ │ any directory on the hard disk │
│ │ │ │
│ F3 │ 27+79+119 │ VIEW. View textfile or archive │
│ │ │ │
│ F4 │ 27+79+120 │ EDIT. Edit filedescriptions │
│ │ │ │
│ F5 │ 27+79+116 │ COPY. Copy files in file lists │
│ │ │ or between RawDir and file lists │
│ │ │ │
│ F6 │ 27+79+117 │ MOVE. Move files in file lists │
│ │ │ or between RawDir and file lists │
│ │ │ │
│ F7 │ 27+79+113 │ ADD FILES. Add files to RA's │
│ │ │ file database │
│ │ │ │
│ F8 │ 27+79+114 │ DELETE. Delete files and/or desc │
├────────────┼───────────────┼──────────────────────────────────┤
│ │ │ SYSOP FUNCTIONS - LIMITS │
├────────────┼───────────────┼──────────────────────────────────┤
│ CTRL-UP │ Local only │ Increase user's time by 10 mins. │
│ CTRL-DOWN │ Local only │ Decrease user's time by 10 mins. │
│ CTRL-LEFT │ Local only │ Decrease time by 1 minute │
│ CTRL-RIGHT │ Local only │ Increase time by 1 minute │
│ CTRL-PGUP │ Local only │ Increase time by 100 minutes │
│ CTRL-PGDN │ Local only │ Decrease time by 100 minutes │
│ │ │ │
│ ALT-UP │ Local only │ Increase user's DL limit by 10 KB│
│ ALT-DOWN │ Local only │ Decrease DL limit by 10 KB │
│ ALT-LEFT │ Local only │ Decrease DL limit by 1 KB │
│ ALT-RIGHT │ Local only │ Increase DL limit by 1 KB │
│ ALT-PGUP │ Local only │ Increase DL limit by 100 KB │
│ ALT-PGDN │ Local only │ Increase DL limit by 100 KB │
└────────────┴───────────────┴──────────────────────────────────┘
28
The Group Menu
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The first displayed menu when starting FastFile is the group menu.
Each group has a number and by choosing a number and pressing
Enter, the areamenu for that group is displayed. The arrow keys
or the mouse, if used by a communication program that supports it,
together with Enter can also be used to select an group. The group
menu can display up to 38 areas per screen. If more than 38 groups
exist, plus (+) and minus (-) can be used to swap pages.
The functions Chat (Y), Upload (U), Locate (L), Redraw (R), Color
Toggle (W), Quit (Q), NewFilesSearch (N) and Help (H) can also be
invoked from the group menu.
The Area Menu
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Each area has a number and by choosing an area number and pressing
Enter, the file list for that area is displayed. The arrow keys
or the mouse, if used by a communication program that supports it,
together with Enter can also be used to select an area. The area
menu can display up to 38 file areas per screen. If more than 38
file areas exist then plus (+) and minus (-) can be used to swap
pages.
The functions Chat (Y), Upload (U), Locate (L), Redraw (R), Color
Toggle (W), Quit (Q), NewFilesSearch (N) and Help (H) can also be
invoked from the area menu.
FastAreaChange
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The FastAreaChange feature can be used in a file list as a short
cut to change file area without selecting it from the area menu.
If F is pressed in a file list then the area name in the
lower left corner of the screen starts blinking. A new file area
can then be selected by either choosing an area number or entering
the first letter of the area name, and then pressing Enter to
confirm. That character can be deleted with the help of Backspace.
The arrow keys too can be used to select the previous or the next
file area respectively.
The Left/Right keys can be used directly, omitting first pressing
Enter, in order to select the file area previous or next to the
current area. In this case the file list will be displayed
immediately without the need to press Enter to confirm.
29
The File Menu
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The file menu display shows file names, dates, sizes and descrip-
tions. Each screen of the file menu display shows up to 21 files.
The keys PgUp(9,-), PgDn(3,+,Enter), Home(7), End(1) are used to
swap between file menu display screens. Up(8) and Down(2) are used
to point at a file within the file list. Pressing END once results
in pointing to the last file of the current screen. Another
press of END makes the last file of the file list pointed to.
Pressing Home once and twice works similarly.
The Left and Right keys can be used to select the previous and the
next file areas directly (FastAreaChange).
Long File Descriptions
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
If the description of a file is too long for the line then the
character (i) is displayed at the right of the description. Those
longer file descriptions can be displayed by pressing "I".
Tagging files
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Files in the file list can be marked for downloading by using the
up and down arrow keys (or 8 and 2 keys) to position the cursor in
front of a desired file, and then pressing Space, T, 0, or INSERT.
The status line at the top of the display shows the number of
files thus tagged, the total size in KBs and the time required to
transfer those files using Zmodem (or another protocol if so
desired by the SysOp). If too many files corresponding to the
users limits are tagged then either the size or the time in the
status line blinks, and the download cannot be initiated.
In file area 0 (Tagged Files) all the tagged files from all file
lists are shown. This area is displayed either by pressing "*", by
choosing area 0 from the area menu, or by using FastAreaChange.
Pressing the character "/" will remove all file tags in all file
areas.
30
Download
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
FastFile uses external protocols (such as GSZ) for transferring
files. A download is initiated by pressing "D". A menu will be
displayed from which the desired protocol can be selected, for
example by pressing "Z" for Zmodem. The download is then started
and all the tagged files will be transferred.
------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: If using Xmodem only one file can be sent contemporaneously!
------------------------------------------------------------------
A download can also be started directly, without using the
protocol selection window, by simply pressing Ctrl-X, Ctrl-Y,
Ctrl-Z, Ctrl-B, Ctrl-H for transfer using Xmodem, Ymodem
Zmodem, BiModem or HSLINK respectively when pointing at the wanted
file (Ctrl-hotkey).
The information file FILES.FF {+}
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
If "DL description" is set to YES in RACONFIG an information file,
with name FILES.FF, is sent to the user as part of the download.
This information file contains the names and descriptions of the
downloaded files.
If FastFile has been registered then the SysOp has the possibility
to add headers to the FILES.FF file containing, for example,
information about the BBS. This heading text is maintained as a
separate file "DLHEAD.FF" in the FastFile system directory.
DOWNLOAD.BAT
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Following a download FastFile executes the batch file DOWNLOAD.BAT
if this file exists in FastFile's system directory. DOWNLOAD.BAT
can be used, for example, to maintain a log file, DOWNLOAD.LOG
containing information on all downloads to the BBS. An example
DOWNLOAD.BAT is included in the FastFile archive.
The following parameters can be used in DOWNLOAD.BAT:
------------------------------------------------------------------
%1 Path to file without final backslash (\)
%2 File name excluding stop and extension (.XXX)
%3 Extension with stop (.)
%4 Date
%5 Time
%6 Protocol
%7 User name - name and surname
------------------------------------------------------------------
31
Upload
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
An upload is initiated by pressing "U". A menu will be displayed
from which the desired protocol can be selected, for example by
pressing "Z" for Zmodem. The upload is then started by the user
in his local communications program. On completion of the upload
the user must provide a description of the file, using the
embedded full-screen editor. The arrow keys, Home, End, Delete,
Insert and Ctrl-Y (delete line) can be used in this editor.
Before requesting the user for the description, FastFile checks
for the file FILE_ID.DIZ in the uploaded archive - this file
should contain text describing the archive. If found, FastFile
will ask if this text is to be used as the description.
The file description is saved by pressing Ctrl-Z. If an upload
area is specified in FF.CTL (UpLoadArea = ) then all files sent to
FastFile are stored in that directory. If no upload area is
specified the files are stored in the current file area, which is
the area in use by the user when the upload is initiated, provided
that uploads to this area are allowed.
If the file description begins with "/" then the file is private
to SysOp and will not be included in the file list.
UPLOAD.BAT
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Following an upload, FastFile executes the batch file UPLOAD.BAT
if it exists in FastFile's system directory. UPLOAD.BAT can be
used to scan for viruses, repack the file to another archive
format or maintain an UPLOAD.LOG with information on all uploads.
A few example UPLOAD.BATs is included in the FastFile archive.
The following parameters can be used in UPLOAD.BAT:
------------------------------------------------------------------
%1 Path to file without final backslash (\)
%2 File name excluding stop and extension (.XXX)
%3 Extension with stop (.)
%4 Date
%5 Time
%6 Protocol
%7 User name - name and surname
------------------------------------------------------------------
32
Locate
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The Locate feature can be used to search for a file within the
file areas. FastFile searches all file areas and displays a
listing of the found files. It is then possible to select files
for download by tagging in this list.
The locate feature is invoked by pressing "L". A locate window is
then displayed in which the user enters search parameters. By
specifying "*" only, a search is initiated for the files that have
been added since the user's previous login.
The searching for files thus initiated is performed in background.
This allows the user to continue scanning the lists and tagging
files at the same time as the search is performed.
The search text in the search window can be edited using the Left,
Right, Backspace, Delete and Insert keys.
Examples of search parameters:
FILE NAMES -
------------------------------------------------------------------
FFRA02WB.ARJ
FFRA02
FFRA0*.*
*.ARJ
FF.C*
------------------------------------------------------------------
DESCRIPTIONS -
------------------------------------------------------------------
REMOTEACCESS
RemoteAccess
FastFile for RA
------------------------------------------------------------------
33
View
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The FastFile viewer is a combined Archive, Text, GIF and MODule
viewer which is very easy to use. Viewing is initiated by pointing
to a file in the filelist and pressing "V". FastFile automatically
detects the type of the selected file and views it.
If the file is of type ZIP, LZH, ARJ or SQZ, then FastFile will
list the content of that archive.
Similarly text files can be viewed online by pointing to the file
and typing "V".
T (tag) can be used to tag individual files in the archive for
downloading and V (view) can be used to view an archived file.
It is also possible to view the contents of, or text files in, an
archive which is itself archived.
Ex. 1. Position the cursor before the file FF.ZIP in the file list.
2. Type V (view). The contents of the archive (FF.ZIP) are now
displayed.
3. Position the cursor before the file DOC.ZIP in the archive
FF.ZIP.
4. Type V again. The contents of DOC.ZIP are now displayed.
5. Position the cursor before the file READ.ME in the archive
DOC.ZIP (which itself resides in the archive FF.ZIP).
6. Type V again. The contents of READ.ME are now displayed.
The locate function (L) can also be used for searching for
keywords in text files.
Ex. 1. Type V to view a text file.
2. When the file is displayed, type L (locate).
3. A locate window is displayed which provides the possibility
to search for a text string in the file.
View can also be used for GIF format files. In this case the size
of the file and the picture resolution and number of colors will
be displayed.
If a MOD-file is viewed then FastFile displays the modules
different samples with names, durations and sizes etc.
Within the view window the keys Up/Down, +/-, Home and End can be
used to swap pages within the viewed file.
------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: ** The SysOp function F3 can also be used to view files ! **
------------------------------------------------------------------
34
Chat
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
FastFile has an embedded Full Screen Chat. There are 4 different
methods to invoke chat mode.
1. User calls (yelling) for SysOp by pressing "Y". FF will
then "call" for SysOp. If the file PAGE.RA exists in the BBS
system directory FastFile will "play" the PAGE.RA melody using
the computers loud speaker. Otherwise a loud speaker "beep"
will be produced.
PAGE.RA is the same file as used by RemoteAccess. The program
YELLCONV.EXE can be used to convert SBBS yell files to PAGE.RA.
YELLCONV.EXE is described below.
SysOp can respond to the yell by pressing SPACE or ENTER.
2. SysOp can at any time initiate a chat by pressing F9.
3. FastFile can even be used purely as a chat program. Chat mode
is started directly by executing FastFile with /CL (chat local)
and /CR (chat remote) parameters.
The command "FASTFILE /CL" can by invoked by a function key
(alt-F) in the BBS program. SysOp can thereby start FastFile in
chat mode, by pressing this function key.
4. /CR works similarly but FastFile then "yells" for SysOp. The
command "FASTFILE /CR" can be inserted as the function "Yell
for SysOp" in the BBS main menu.
ALT-F can be used in the chat if FastFile has been started with
/CL or /CR. FastFile then swaps to it's filedoor mode and
displays the area menu. For more information on /CL and /CR,
see the installing FastFile section earlier in this document.
"SCROLL LOCK" can be used to toggle sound on/off within the
chat. When the "Scroll Lock" lamp on the keyboard is lit the
sound is turned off.
35
Special keys that can be used during chat:
Key Function Available to
------------------------------------------------------------------
F1-F4 Writes prepared texts defined in FF.CTL (SysOp)
F5 " SysOp's name (SysOp)
F6 " User's name (SysOp)
F7 " Date (SysOp)
F8 " Time (SysOp)
Ctrl-Enter Writes text defined in FF.CTL ( :-) ) (SysOp)
ALT-Enter " ( :-( ) (SysOp)
Ctrl-C Clear chat window (User/SysOp)
ALT-C Capture. Save screen to CAPTURE.FF (SysOp)
ALT-W Jump between User/SysOp windows (SysOp)
ALT-F Show the area menu (SysOp)
ESC Ends the chat. The user can terminate (User/SysOp)
the chat provided that the statement
"ChatEsc =" is set to "YES" in FF.CTL.
------------------------------------------------------------------
Periods during which the user can call SysOp can be specified
in FF.CTL.
ScreenColor
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The ScreenColor feature (W) allows the user to use FastFile in
monochrome mode if he prefers. This speeds up the displaying of
file lists. Pressing "W" causes toggling between color and
monochrome modes.
ChangeTimeMode
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The status line at the head of the display shows the time required
to download the currently tagged files using Zmodem. Pressing "M"
toggles between by Xmodem, Ymodem and Zmodem required times.
Online Help
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
A FastFile Help-screen is displayed by pressing "H" or "F1". That
screen shows all the FastFile commands and a short description of
each command. The help-screen(s) can be edited with FFCONFIG.
Redraw
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The Redraw feature (key R) results in FastFile redisplaying the
current screen. This is useful if communication line disturbances
caused corruption of transmitted data.
36
Quit
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The feature Quit (Q) or Goodbye (G) is used to exit FastFile.
FastFile will update information such as Timelimits, WantChat in
the file EXITINFO.BBS before terminating.
SysOp can also use ALT-H or F10 to quit FastFile.
37
SYSOP FEATURES {+}
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
FastFile includes a number of features to help SysOp maintain
RemoteAccess file database. This file area manager can be used
locally (and remotely if FastFile has been registered). Other
SysOp features are included for DOS-Shell, RawDir, LockOut,
TimeLimits and SystemInformation($). Since FastFile don't compress
RA:s file database it's recommend that RAFILE COMPRESS is executed
every night. ---------------
In FF.CTL should be specified the security level required for
remotely use of SysOp features.
On pressing "?", an extra help line is displayed at the top of the
file list. That line indicates which various SysOp features are
available. Pressing "?" again removes that help line.
Edit (F4)
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The Edit feature (F4) allows updating of file descriptions in RA's
file database. Fullscreen editing of a file description is invoked
by pointing to the file and pressing F4.
The text is saved by pressing Ctrl-Z. Ctrl-Y is used to delete
lines and Home, End and the arrow keys moves the cursor within the
edit window. ESC terminates editing without saving the text.
RawDir, MakeDir (F2)
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Using the RawDir feature (F2) causes all the files and directorys
in a chosen directory on the hard disk or on a diskette to be
displayed as a file list in FastFile. Files can then be tagged,
viewed and downloaded. This is a powerful feature which only SysOp
should have access to.
The right and left arrow keys can be used to change to a
subdirectory or parent directory.
Pressing F2 causes display of a pathline in which a directory path
can be entered. If the directory exists then its contents are
displayed as a file list. Desired files can then be marked with
"T", and downloaded by pressing "D". If the specified directory
does not exist then FastFile displays a question on whether it
should be created. The question requires an answer, Y (yes) or N
(no).
F2 + ENTER can be used to display all the files in the file area
directory.
The RawDir-feature can also be used to move or copy files to or
from RawDir. See Move (F6) and Copy (F5) below. Delete (F8) can
also be used in RawDir.
38
Move (F6)
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Move (F6) can be used to move files in the file list between file
areas, to or from RawDir or from archive to RawDir.
Example.
--------
1. Move file(s) within a file list.
a. Tag the file or files to be moved.
b. Place the cursor to the desired position in the file list.
c. Press F6.
The tagged files will be moved to the new position.
2. Move file(s) between two file areas.
a. Tag the file or files to be moved.
b. Change area.
c. Point to the file next to the position where you
want the moved file to be placed within the filelist.
d. Press F6
The tagged files will be moved to the new file area.
3. Move file(s) to RawDir.
a. Tag the file[s] to be moved.
b. Press F2 for RawDir.
c. Type in the desired path and press Enter.
d. When the RawDir-directory is displayed, press F6.
The tagged files will be moved to the RawDir-directory.
------------------------------------------------------------------
!!!!! This method can be used to move files to a floppy disk !!!!!
------------------------------------------------------------------
4. Move file(s) from RawDir.
a. Press F2 for RawDir.
b. Type the desired path and press Enter.
c. When the RawDir-directory is shown, tag the desired file(s).
d. Choose a file area.
e. Press F6.
The tagged files will be moved from the RawDir-directory to the
file area.
------------------------------------------------------------------
!!!! This method can be used to move files from a floppy disk !!!!
------------------------------------------------------------------
39
Delete (F8)
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Delete (F8) can be used to remove files from the file list or to
delete them from the hard disk.
The files to be deleted are first tagged before pressing F8.
Removing the file from the file list requires confirmation, by
answering "Y" to the question "Delete [File name] ?". The file can
also be erased from the hard disk by answering "Y" to the question
"Delete file from disk ?". No remove or erase are performed if the
questions are answered "N".
If several files are to be deleted then the questions for the
first file can be answered "A" (All) and all the tagged files will
be deleted without requiring confirmation for each file.
AddFile (F7)
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The AddFile feature (F7) can be used to add files to RA's FDB.
Positioning in a file area and pressing "F7" results in all files
in the file area directory not already present in the file list to
be added to it. The Edit feature (F4) can then be used to update
the file descriptions.
FastFile checks for the file FILE_ID.DIZ in the uploaded archive -
this file should contain text describing the archive. If found,
FastFile will ask if this text is to be used as the description.
Copy (F5)
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Copy (F5) works in the same way as Move (F6), except that the
files are copied instead of being moved. See Move (F6).
Copy can also be used to copy files from an archive to RawDir or
to a file area.
Ex. 1. Position the cursor before the file TEST.ZIP in the file
list and type V (view). The contents of the archive
TEST.ZIP are now displayed.
2. Tag all files in the archive using T (tag).
3. Press ESC to return to the file list.
4. Press F2 and create the directory C:\FFTEST.
5. Press F5. The files in the archive are unpacked and copied
to C:\FFTEST.
Yeah !! that's it ... a real nice feature ... !!
------------------------------------------------------------------
!!!!!! The Copy feature (F5) can also handle floppy disks !!!!!!
------------------------------------------------------------------
40
ChangeLimits
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
FastFile contains features to enable a user's Time and Download
Limits to be changed. The following keys are used.
TimeLimit
---------
Ctrl-Right - Increase 1 minute.
Ctrl-Left - Decrease 1 minute.
Ctrl-Up - Increase 10 minutes.
Ctrl-Dn - Decrease 10 minutes.
Ctrl-PgUp - Increase 100 minutes.
Ctrl-PgDn - Decrease 100 minutes.
DownloadLimit
-------------
Alt-Right - Increase 1 KB.
Alt-Left - Decrease 1 KB.
Alt-Up - Increase 10 KB.
Alt-Dn - Decrease 10 KB.
Alt-PgUp - Increase 100 KB.
Alt-PgDn - Decrease 100 KB.
Lock (Alt-L)
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The user's keyboard can be locked by using the LockKeyboard
feature. This is useful when SysOp wishes to show the user some
information without the user interfering.
Press Alt-L to lock the user's keyboard. FastFile shows that the
keyboard is locked by displaying "LockOut" at the bottom right of
the screen. Press Alt-L again to unlock the keyboard.
DOSShell (Alt-J)
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
There is an embedded DOSShell feature in FastFile. Pressing Alt-J
causes the DOS shell to be called. Entering "EXIT" in DOS causes
return.
41
Multitasking
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
BBSs are commonly run in multi-tasking systems. FastFile has
therefore been tested with the following programs, with excellent
results.
- OS/2 2.0 GA+SP and OS/2 2.1 GA
- Windows 3.1
- Desqview
FastFile determines automatically the multi-tasking system (OS/2,
Windows or Desqview) in which it is being run, and returns CPU
control to the system.
Batch files, Examples
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
Two batch file example are included in the FastFile archive
which can be used as UPLOAD.BAT, and one for use as DOWNLOAD.BAT.
The upload BAT-file desired should be renamed as "UPLOAD.BAT", and
the download BAT-file as "DOWNLOAD.BAT".
Batch file examples for UPLOAD.BAT
----------------------------------
VIRSCAN.BAT - Scans for viruses and logs in VIRUS.LOG.
UPLOAD.BAT - Logs the upload in UL.LOG.
Batch file example for DOWNLOAD.BAT
-----------------------------------
DOWNLOAD.BAT - Logs the download in DL.LOG
------------------------------------------------------------------
The batch files in use should reside in the FastFile system
directory !
------------------------------------------------------------------
YELLCONV.EXE
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
FastFile uses the file PAGE.RA to play a melody using the loud-
speaker during a yell. PAGE.RA is distributed with RemoteAccess.
The program YELLCONV.EXE exists for those using SuperBBS and who
wishes to convert their SBBS Yell files for use with FastFile.
Use /? for help information.
Ex. YELLCONV SBBSYELL.CTL PAGE.RA
42
MultiNode Systems
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
NodePath =
----------
This is used in systems with several lines. The path should be
that of the directory containing EXITINFO.BBS and DORINFO1.DEF for
the line and "BBSPath =" should specify the directory containing
FILES.RA.
Since EXITINFO.BBS and DORINFO1.DEF exist in different directories
for the different lines, a different FF.CTL must be created for
each line and be specified in a NodePath statement. The NodePath
statement is the only necessary difference between the FF.CTL's.
- "SET FASTFILE = ..." must _NOT_ be present in AUTOEXEC.BAT.
- "BBSPath =" should specify the path of the directory containing
the files FILES.RA and LIMITS.CTL [C:\RA\].
- "NodePath =" should specify the path to the directory containing
the files EXITINFO.BBS and DORINFO1.DEF for the actual line.
[C:\RA\LINE1\]
- An FF.CTL should be present in each line's directory and the
"NodePath =" statement should be different in each FF.CTL.
- FastFile should be started from the line's directory.
43
Special Acknowledgements
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
We would like to give special credits to the following persons who
have assisted in the development of FastFile for RA !!
Robert Burgess and family
-------------------------
Thank you for all your assistance in translation this manual
from Swedish - we would probably never have finished without this
help ... And also thanks for all good bug reports!
Henry Dahl
----------
Thank you for your good ideas ! And for editing this manual. It's
always interesting to chat with you and obtain new insights !
Johan Fernberger
----------------
Thank you for all those bug reports.
Leffe Forsstrom
---------------
Thank you for being first to register FastFile !, hope that many
more will follow you ... and also thanks for all credit that you
always give us. Lets hope that this beta is not to stable for you.
Leif Mortenssen
---------------
Thank you for being first outside Sweden to register FastFile !
Dan Stark
---------
Thank you for letting us do some last minute beta test of FastFile
on your multiline BBS.
A ***BIG THANK YOU*** to all other beta-testers and all others who
came up with ideas during the development of FastFile, Thanx Guys!
Richard & Hakan
44
FASTFILE FOR RA 0.02ß Packing List (FFRA02WB.ARJ)
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
The FastFile archive contains the following files -
FASTFILE.EXE - FastFile main program.
FFCONFIG.EXE - Configuration program.
FFSYSOP.DOC - SysOp documentation (this manual).
FFUSER.DOC - User manual. Put it in a area for user-download.
FASTFILE.REG - Registration form.
KEYS.DOC - Keyboard guide (quick reference).
INSTALL.DOC - Installation guide. (QuickInstall).
PACKLIST.DOC - This file list.
UPLOAD.BAT - Batch file executed after uploads.
DOWNLOAD.BAT - Batch file executed after downloads.
YELLCONV.EXE - Converts SBBSYELL.CTL to FastFile (RA) format.
PAGE.RA - Yell file.
DLHEAD.FF - Headline for FILES.FF.
FILE_ID.DIZ - File description.
WBETA2.DOC - Latest information (not in this manual).
SUPPORT.DOC - How to get support.
PACKET.CTL - FastFile's archive-configuration file.
FFSTART.HLP - Help-screen "FastFile QuickHelp".
GROUP.HLP - Help-screen "Groupmenu help".
AREA.HLP - Help-screen "Areamenu help".
FILE.HLP - Help-screen "Filelist help".
ARCVIEW.HLP - Help-screen "Archivelist help".
RAWDIR.HLP - Help-screen "RawDir help".
TAGLIST.HLP - Help-screen "Taglist help".
FastFile is written by Hakan Akerberg and Richard Skalsky
Copyright (c) 1993, 1994 R.H. Creative Computer Software
45