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SILICON TIMES REPORT ==================== INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE ============================= from STR Electronic Publishing Inc. A subsidiary of STR Worldwide CompNews Inc. April 28, 1995 No. 1117 ====================================================================== Silicon Times Report International OnLine Magazine Post Office Box 6672 Jacksonville, Florida 32221-6155 R.F. Mariano, Editor Featured in ITCNet's ITC_STREPORT Echo ----------------------------------------- Voice: 1-904-783-3319 10am-4pm EST STR Publishing Support BBS * THE BOUNTY INTERNATIONAL BBS * Featuring: * 4.5GB * of Download Files Operating with * Mustang Software's WILDCAT! BBS v4.10 * Fully Networked within the following Nets: ITCNet 85:881/253 JAX HUB ~ FIDO Net 1:112/35 Prowl ~ USPOLNet ~ FNET 350 ~ Nest 90:301/3 Delivered via Subscriber List through Internet 904-786-4176 MULTI-NODE 24hrs-7 days 2400-115.2 bps V.32-34 v.42 bis 28.8 Hayes Optima 28.8 V.FC Data/Fax USRobotics D/S Data/Fax 28.8 V.34 Everything FAX: 904-783-3319 12am-6am EST ----------------------------------------- The Bounty STReport Support Central .... 1-904-786-4176 FNET. 620 : Leif's World ................1-904-573-0734 FNET. 690 : PASTE BBS....................1-206-284-8493 FNET. 489 : Steal Your Face BBS..........1-908-920-7981 MNET - Toad Hall BBS.....................1-617-567-8642 ______________________________________________________________________ > 04/28/95 STR 1117 "The Original * Independent * OnLine Magazine!" """"""""""""""""" - STR INDUSTRY REPORT - MS Wine Guide - SYSOP NEWS Offer - OPEN TRANSPORT SHIPS - HP admits WS BUG - CHILD MATH - HP Cuts Notebook $$ - SCSI TIDBITS - DELRINA UPDATES - Hover Strike Review - People Talking - Jaguar NewsBits -* WIN95 PROMISES FASTER IMAGES! *- -* INTEL TO HALT'486 PRODUCTION! *- -* USROBOTICS NEW VOICE-MODEM! *- ========================================================================== STReport International OnLine Magazine The Original * Independent * OnLine Magazine -* FEATURING WEEKLY *- "Accurate UP-TO-DATE News and Information" Current Events, Original Articles, Tips, Rumors, and Information Hardware - Software - Corporate - R & D - Imports ========================================================================== STReport's BBS - The Bounty BBS, invites all BBS systems, worldwide, to participate in the ITC/Fido/Internet/PROWL/USENET/USPOLNet/NEST/F-Net Mail Networks. You may also call The Bounty BBS direct @ 1-904-786-4176. Enjoy the wonder and excitement of exchanging all types of useful information relative to all computer types, worldwide, through the use of excellent International Networking Systems. SysOps and users alike worldwide, are welcome to join STReport's International Conferences. ITC Node is 85:881/250, The Fido Node is 1:112/35, Crossnet Code is #34813, and the "Lead Node" is #620. All computer enthusiasts, hobbyist or commercial on all platforms and BBS systems are invited to participate. ========================================================================== CIS ~ DELPHI ~ GENIE ~ BIX ~ FIDO ~ ITC ~ NEST ~ EURONET ~ CIX USENET ~ USPOLNET ~ CLEVELAND FREE-NET ~ INTERNET ~ PROWL ~ FNET ~ AOL ========================================================================== SOFTWARE CREATIONS BBS is proud to distribute Silicon Times Report STReport International OnLine Magazine -------------------------------- With more than 130 Lines of PCBOARD access, Internet, Telnet and X.25 local access in every major city world-wide through SprintNet Software Creations delivers the files! -------------------------------------------------- Silicon Times Report joins names like Apogee Software, Borland, id Software, TriSoft, Interactive Gaming, PC Techniques, Coriolis, Fastgraph, PC Information Group, and many more. -------------------------------- Real-Time Credit Card Approval and Membership Upgrades The Software Download Store - for on the spot purchase/approval and download ability! -------------------------------- Call 1-800-4SWCBBS (479-2227); Fax 1-508-365-7214 for more information! ----------------------------------------------------- So, Get the latest releases from SOFTWARE CREATIONS BBS "Home of the Authors" * Software Creations, Voted #1 BBS for 1993 & 1994 * 1200/2400 V.42/MNP Lines : (508) 365-2359 2400-14.4k HST US Robotics Lines : (508) 368-7036 2400-16.8k V.32/V.42bis US Robotics lines : (508) 368-7139 14.4-28.8k V.32/V.42bis/V.fc Hayes Optima lines: (508) 365-9352 14.4-28.8k V.32/V.42bis/V.32terbo/V.fc US Robotics lines: (508) 368-3424 ======================================================================== COMPUSERVE WILL PRESENT $15.00 WORTH OF COMPLIMENTARY ONLINE TIME to the Readers of; STREPORT INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" "The Original 16/32bit OnLine Magazine" NEW USERS; SIGN UP TODAY! CALL: 1-800-848-8199 .. Ask for operator 198 You will receive your complimentary time and be OnLine in no time at all! "Enjoy CompuServe's forums; where information is at its very best! """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" LottoMan V1.3 Results: 04/22/95: 7 3# matches & 1 4# match ---------------------- > From the Editor's Desk "Saying it like it is!" """""""""""""""""""""" Monday is May first... April sure went by fast. Spring Comdex has made the springtime a little bit brighter. The announced new products are beginning to surface around the country and most folks are delighted. The BIG news this year is, without a doubt, Internet. The WEB, FTP, NEWSGROUPS and server sites have all become "buzz" words of "where its at" as far as telecommunications are concerned. The new Telcom programs coming out that are written to take advantage of the knockout "eye candy" the WEB offers to those accessing the "multitudinous" pages. Spry Mosaic, NETSCAPE and Netcruiser have become favorites of those accessing the Web's colorful, highly informative and entertaining pages. Of the three mentioned, NETSCAPE is clearly the most popular at this time. If you have the opportunity to get a look at the Internet and the WEB, don't hesitate. It will certainly impress you. Ralph... Of Special Note: ---------------- STReport will be branching out further to Internet's userbase in the very near future. We've received numerous requests to receive STReport from a wide variety of Internet addresses. As a result, we're putting together an Internet distribution/mailing list for those who wish to receive STReport on a regular basis, and we'll UUENCODE each issue and mail it to you. If you're interested in being added to our mailing list, please, send your requests to either "dpj@delphi.com" or, RMARIANO@DELPHI.COM. Look for mailings to begin by October first. We are also considering a number of Internet ftp sites in which to post our issues for as well. Whatever we can do to make STReport available to you. we'll try it! """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STReport's Staff DEDICATED TO SERVING YOU! """""""""""""""" Publisher -Editor """""""""""""""""" Ralph F. Mariano Lloyd E. Pulley, Editor, Current Affairs Section Editors """"""""""""""" PC SECTION AMIGA SECTION MAC SECTION ATARI SECTION ---------- ------------- ----------- ------------- R.D. Stevens R. Niles J. Deegan D. P. Jacobson STReport Staff Editors: """"""""""""""""""""""" Michael Arthur John Deegan Brad Martin John Szczepanik Paul Guillot Joseph Mirando Doyle Helms Frank Sereno John Duckworth Jeff Coe Steve Keipe Guillaume Brasseur Melanie Bell Jay Levy Jeff Kovach Marty Mankins Carl Prehn Paul Charchian Contributing Correspondents: """""""""""""""""""""""""""" Dominick J. Fontana Norman Boucher Clemens Chin Eric Jerue Ron Deal Mike Barnwell Ed Westhusing Glenwood Drake Vernon W.Smith Bruno Puglia Paul Haris Kevin Miller Craig Harris Allen Chang Tim Holt Patrick Hudlow Tom Sherwin Please, submit letters to the editor, articles, reviews, etc... via E-Mail to: CompuServe................... 70007,4454 Delphi......................... RMARIANO GEnie......................... ST.REPORT BIX............................ RMARIANO FIDONET........................ 1:112/35 FNET........................... NODE 620 ITC NET...................... 85:881/253 NEST........................ 90:21/350.0 America OnLine..................STReport Internet.............RMARIANO@DELPHI.COM Internet.......70007.4454.compuserve.com Internet................STReport@AOL.Com IMPORTANT NOTICE ---------------- STReport, with its policy of not accepting any paid advertising, has over the years developed the reputation of "saying it like it really is". When it comes to our editorials, product evaluations, reviews and over-views, we shall always keep our readers interests first and foremost. With the user in mind, STReport further pledges to maintain the reader confidence that has been developed over the years and to continue "living up to such". All we ask is that our readers make certain the manufacturers, publishers etc., know exactly where the information about their products appeared. In closing, we shall arduously endeavor to meet and further develop the high standards of straight forwardness our readers have come to expect in each and every issue. The Staff & Editors """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" SYSOP NEWS & CYBERWORLD REPORT ============================== The Leading Hard Copy News Source in the BBS & Online Telecommunications World Your own personal copy mailed to your home every month; STReport's special offer! Annual Subscription Rate of $15.95!! (normally 20.95). Include the STR offer number (STR-21) for your discount. You can send your subscription in to: ------------------------------------- BBS Press Services, Inc. 8125 S.W. 21st Street Topeka, KS 66615 Or, to order by phone, Please Call: 1-913-478-3157.....(Voice) 1-913-478-9239......(Data) 1-913-478-1189.......(FAX) Note: Checks, MasterCard & Visa ok, Please include Full Name, Address, ===== Phone Number, Card type, number & expiration date when ordering. If by mail, please _sign_ your personal order. """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > STR INDUSTRY REPORT LATE BREAKING INDUSTRY-WIDE NEWS """"""""""""""""""" IBM/POWER-PC/PC SECTION (I) =========================== Computer Products Update - CPU Report ------------------------ ---------- Weekly Happenings in the Computer World Issue #17 Compiled by: Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr. ******* General Computer News ******* >> Microsoft Ships Wine Guide << Microsoft Corp. has released Microsoft Wine Guide, an interactive multimedia guide to nearly 6,000 wines and the world's most famous wine regions. Hosted by Oz Clarke, winner of the prestigious James Beard award, Microsoft Wine Guide combines tips and insights with an integrated wine reference. A Wine Selector helps users find the right wines for any meal or occasion, says the Redmond, Washington-based software publisher. Microsoft Wine Guide is available on CD-ROM for the Windows and Macintosh computers. The software sells for $39.95. >> Epson Sues Over Cartridge Ads << Makers of Epson printers have filed federal suit alleging Nukote International Inc. falsely advertises its replacement cartridge for Epson Stylus ink jet printers are "100 percent compatible" and "meet or exceed original equipment specifications." The suit also alleges Nukote infringes Seiko Epson's patents and uses the Epson trademark on its packaging in a way that misleads buyers. Director Charles Gunderson of Epson's imaging products unit said in a statement, "Genuine Epson cartridges use patented technology and speci- ally formulated inks to assure high-quality printing and the longevity of Stylus printers and their printheads. We had to file this action to prevent customer confusion and protect the Epson trademark." >> Apple Ships Open Transport Beta << Apple Computer Inc. says it has started distributing the beta version of its new Mac OS networking and communications system -- Apple Open Transport -- to developers and customers worldwide. The company notes that the software, which is based on industry standards, brings a new level of networking connectivity, control, and compatibility to current Macintosh System 7 and System 7.5 customers. The product also preserves and enhances the hallmark of the Mac OS -- built-in support for easy-to- use networking. According to Apple, Open Transport provides significant management capabilities, such as new flexibility in setting up network configur- ations. With Open Transport, network managers can determine configur- ation settings for network users or allow the users to determine their own settings. Open Transport also supports the Dynamic Host Configur- ation Protocol (DHCP), which is a new standard that allows network managers to administer addressing and other configuration information for TCP/IP networks from a central location. Apple notes that Open Transport makes it easy for individual users to switch from one network configuration to another. The software also integrates online help and active assistance, based on Apple Guide technology. Apple plans to include support for Open Transport in QuickTime Conferencing, Apple Remote Access, AppleShare, PowerTalk, PowerShare, the Copland release of the Mac OS and other products. >> Intel Halting '486 Production << By year's end, to solidify the Pentium chip as its core product, Intel Corp. says it will have stopped production of most versions of the 80486 microprocessor. Reports say that, while no formal timetable for phasing out the '486 has been announced, Intel spokesman Howard High said the company most likely would make '486 processors only for low-end notebook computers. Meanwhile: -:- AMD spokesman Chuck Mulloy told the wire service, "We think there is still a very strong demand for '486s. They have left behind an incremental opportunity for AMD." -:- Dataquest analysts predict that about half the PCs sold this year will have Pentiums, but that Pentium-based PCs will outsell 486-based machines by nearly 10-1 by the end of 1996. >> HP Reveals Workstation Bug << Hewlett-Packard Co. says it has discovered and corrected a manufacturing-process flaw that affects the behavior of some HP 9000 workstations. The company notes that the flaw can result in inconsistent system behavior -- a "system machine check" message or data corruption in fewer than 20,000 HP systems worldwide. HP adds that the flaw may affect a small percentage of HP 9000 and HP 3000 servers as well. HP is advising owners of potentially affected systems to immediately contact the HP Response Center or their local sales office for further information and direction. If it's determined that a system is affected, HP will incur the costs associated with repair or replacement. >> Win95 Promises Faster Images << A new technology for its Windows '95 operating system that will make imagery in games move quicker is expected to be introduced this week by Microsoft Corp. Reports say the technology also includes a way to add pre-recorded sounds to games and will have a way to create 3-D imagery. It's felt that Microsoft's effort may help address an impending threat from new souped-up video-game machines from Sega Enterprises Ltd., Nintendo Co. and Sony Corp. The personal-computer industry hopes to match or exceed performance of those game-only machines with the help of add-on circuit boards that make animation and three-dimensional images move more quickly on a regular PC screen. The new Microsoft technology for game developers includes DirectDraw, a set of programming code and specifications that allow them to exploit those acceleration boards. David Britton, a Microsoft group marketing manager, said the hardware and software can display 70 frames of animation a second, compared with 30 frames on conventional PCs and videogame machines. A new feature called DirectSound offers an easier way for game designers to add combinations of prerecorded sounds to games, such as gunshots, car crashes and background music. >> Novell Launches Consumer Push << Novell Inc. has unveiled a new marketing initiative that's designed to lead the networking giant into the home software market. Novell's new PerfectHome brand aims to introduce consumers to an assortment of CD-ROM multimedia software titles that will begin appearing in stores beginning in June and July. The company has also announced the establishment of a long-term partnership with Bertelsmann. Novell says the alliance will help it augment its international presence by providing new channels for distribution, sales, marketing, manufacturing and product localization. One of Novell's first home titles is PerfectWorks, an integrated software package that includes a word processor, spreadsheet, database, paint, draw and communications module. The product is set to begin shipping in June Novell will also release its first entertainment title in June -- Hard Evidence: The Marilyn Monroe Files. Novell says the CD-ROM will let users investigate the death of the superstar and uncover police records and evidence never previously seen by the public. >> USRobotics Offers New Modem << The new Sportster Vi 28.8 Faxmodem from US Robotics Inc. promises to allow PC users to talk and share applications simultaneously over a single analog phone line. The company is quoted as saying the product is expected to ship early in the second quarter of calendar 1995 with a list price of $399. >> Lotus Embraces 'Team Computing' << Lotus Development Corp. says it is adding "team computing" features to its leading software applications. The software publisher notes that the technology is designed to improve the productivity of organizations by enhancing the way people communicate, coordinate and collaborate on their work. The company says unique features built into forthcoming versions of the new Lotus Word Pro word processor, 1-2-3 spreadsheet, Freelance Graphics presentation graphics software, Approach database and Organizer personal and group scheduler will make it easier for people to collaborate on common business tasks such as preparing a budget, writing a business proposal, organizing a sales presentation or scheduling a group meeting. By automating the process of collecting ideas, distributing drafts for review and consolidating feedback into a final document, these new applications will help people work together and increase the productivity of individuals, teams and organizations, says Lotus. >> HP Cuts Notebook PC Prices << Hewlett-Packard Co. says it has cut prices on its entire range of HP OmniBook notebook computers by up to 15 percent. Prices on the HP OmniBook 4000 series of color notebook PCs have been reduced by 3 to 15%, with entry-level prices now starting at $2,469 for a model equipped with a 50MHz 486DX2 microprocessor, a 260MB hard disk and built-in sound. The company has also reduced prices of its high-performance small notebooks by 5 to 10%. HP OmniBook 600 notebook PCs now start at $2,419 for models with a 50MHz 486DX2 microprocessor and a 170MB hard disk. Prices on a wide range of HP OmniBook PC accessories, including RAM and hard disks, have been reduced by up to 45%. A 260MB hard disk for the OmniBook 600 now costs $582, a reduction of almost $500. >> Shareware Programs Go Online << The Association of Shareware Professionals reports that more than 1,200 shareware programs from its ASP Advantage CD-ROM are now available for downloading on CompuServe's ASP CD-ROM Forum (GO ASPCD). "CompuServe members can download a wide variety of top- quality games, utilities, educational software and business and financial programs for just pennies," says George Campbell, chairman of the Muskegon, Michigan-based ASP. "Unlike other shareware programs, these programs are written by authors who uphold the ASP's code of conduct, which has many provisions for protecting consumers." The programs are sorted into 20 categories, including, Business, Communications, Database Applications, Education, Engineering, Finances, Games/Arcade, Games/Windows, Games/Card/Word, Games/Other, Graphics, Home, Music, Programming, Religion/Philosophy, Sports, General Applications, Utilities, Business/Windows and Miscellaneous/Windows. Consumers also can purchase the ASP-CD ROM directly from the ASP for $24.95 plus $2.50 shipping in the U.S. or $3.50 internationally. >> Prodigy Names New CEO << Prodigy CEO Ross Glatzer, who is retiring next Monday, will be re- placed by Edward A. Bennett, a former cable executive. Glatzer joined Prodigy in 1986 and was named president/CEO in 1992. _________________________________________________ > USR VOICE MODEM STR InfoFile """""""""""""""""""""""""""" SPORTSTER VI 28.8 FAXMODEM WITH DSVD ==================================== U.S. ROBOTICS ANNOUNCES DSVD MODEM Digital Simultaneous Voice and Data Over a Single Telephone Line U.S. Robotics (NASDAQ:USRX) today announced the Sportster Vi 28.8 Faxmodem with DSVD. The new product allows PC users to talk and share applications simultaneously over a single analog telephone line. The Sportster Vi 28.8 Faxmodem with DSVD is a true V.34 modem that incorporates the new DSVD (digital simultaneous voice and data) communications specification recently issued by a group of leading data communications companies. Intel's ProShare Premier Edition Softwar personal data conferencing application, is included with the modem. The open DSVD standard ensures the interoperability of all V.34 modems incorporating the specification. Because the specification is digit type of information that can be exchanged is unlimited, including voice, graphics, photographs and video. A digital solution also offers scalability, advanced voice compression and the ability to add new modem technology at a future date. The first version of the Sportster DSVD modem is an internal PC model that is flash ROM upgradable. The first product is expected to ship early second calendar quarter of 1995 with a list price of $399. An external model will follow, with price and shipping date to be determined. "DSVD adds a new dimension to PC-based interactive communication," said Michael Seedman, vice president and general manager of U.S. Robotics Personal Communications Division. "The specification delivers on the collaborative computing over a single telephone line at a very reasonable price. "The DSVD standard delivers a wide range of interactive capabilities to PC users, from desktop conferencing applications to interactive gaming," Seedman added. The companies issuing the open DSVD specification are Intel, Creative Labs, Hayes, Rockwell and U.S. Robotics. Communications products incorporating the DSVD standard are expected to be introduced by many of these companies during 1995. U.S. Robotics, headquartered in Skokie, Ill., is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of information access systems and products, and has its Personal Communications Division and Corporate/Systems Division located in Skokie. Manufacturing operations are located in Skokie, Morton Grove, Ill. and Salt Lake City, Utah. Other U.S. Robotics companies include Salt Lake City, Utah-based Megahertz Corporation, focused on mobile and wireless information access solutions; U.S. Robotics Ltd., with offices in Slough and Windsor, England; U.S. Robotics, s.a. in Villeneuve d'Ascq, France; and P.N.B., s.a., based in Suresnes, France. Please refer reader inquiries to U.S. Robotics at 1-800-DIAL USR These products are also available in Canada: for editorial information, please call U.S. Robotics Public Relations. All products mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective manufacturers. ___________________________________________ > Frankie's Corner STR Feature """""""""""""""""""""""""""" The Kids' Computing Corner -------------------------- Brighter Child Math Challenge! ============================== Windows CD-ROM for ages six to nine suggested retail $45 American Education Publishing 150 E. Wilson Bridge Road, Suite 145 Columbus OH 43085 800-542-7833 IBM Requirements CPU: 386 OS: Windows 3.1 RAM: 4 megs Video: 256 color VGA CD-ROM: Single speed Misc.: Mouse, sound card by Frank Sereno Brighter Child Math Challenge! combines three software products onto one CD-ROM. The disc includes Math Level One for first grade students, Math Level Two for second grade students and Math Level Three for third graders. This trio of math programs features more than eighty exercises. Skill building begins with number recognition and will advance to basic geometry. Math problems and concepts are organized to have increasing difficulty. The program's interface may prove difficult for inexperienced users and for beginning readers because it lacks audible help. The interface is so simple that the user manual consists of two pages. The program has a row of buttons which allow the user to move forward or backward from the current lesson, examine a table of contents and jump to an exercise by clicking on it, read a glossary, check his scores or exit the program. Help is often available by clicking on a question mark. All math exercises are explained aloud, but, unfortunately, all help is in text form. Depending on your child's reading level, he may need assistance. The program could have used spoken dialog to explain the many math concepts as well. Technical assistance is excellent. You have to call long distance, but calls are usually returned within twenty-four hours. The people at American Publishing did make an extra effort to assist me in this review and I appreciate their efforts. To save potential purchasers the cost of a tech support phone call, I had a problem running Math Level Three. A Windows file named mci.vbx was outdated. The fix is to rename the file to mci1.vbx and then reinstall the Math Challenge software. The math exercises are designed well and should provide a good learning experience. Math Challenge would be much improved if the program provided more problems within each exercise and if the problems were randomized. Each time an exercise is done, the problems are presented in the same order. This repetition can become tedious and may diminish the amount of time the child will spend with the program. Math Challenge has very sparse graphics. The lack of eye-catching graphics and fascinating animations may cause children to have less enthusiasm for this product. The program treats sound in the same manner. The voices are very good, but Math Challenge makes little use of sound effects or music. Another shortcoming in its sound package is that it offers little verbal encouragement to the child. Such encouragement is shown as text or fireworks animations. A parent or teacher can overcome this problem by encouraging the child while he works with the program. With little visual or aural enticement, Math Challenge does not have a high degree of attractiveness to computer savvy children. I believe the program can be rewarding and that a parent or teacher must give encouragement to the child to make the program more fun. American Education Publishing has been producing workbooks under the Brighter Child label for several years. These books are very good. Math Challenge is very much like the workbooks. The activities are founded on sound learning principles, but the programs do not use the full power of the computer to enhance the learning experience. If a parent or teacher is willing to work with the child on this program, then I believe Math Challenge can be very beneficial to young math students. Ratings Graphics ............ 6.5 Sounds .............. 6.5 Interface ........... 7.0 Play Value .......... 7.0 Educational Value ... 8.5 Bang for the Buck ... 8.0 Average ............. 7.25 ### Radical Rex for the Sega Genesis from Activision Radical Rex is a happening, skateboarding dino. He lives in a cool, prehistoric land where all the dinosaurs live as hip-hopping vegetarian brothers. And then one day, a mammal named Skriitch comes along who gives all the other dinosaurs the evil-eye. Now all Rex's brothers are under Skriitch's spell and he means to finish the dinosaurs. Your mission is to guide Rex through battles with enchanted dinosaurs to foil Skriitch's evil scheme. He has several weapons to aid him in his quest. He can breathe fire, has an awesome karate kick and his mighty roar will send his opposition running. Explore five different worlds featuring different obstacles and opponents! Enjoy the cool music! Radical Rex is a "cute" platform game. The graphics and gameplay are suitable for most children. The game should also prove challenging to most adults. The many characters are expertly animated. The faces are especially expressive and funny. The action is fast-paced and furious. Rex can do some hair-raising stunts on his skateboard. Opponents attack quickly and furiously. You must develop individual strategies for defeating each enemy. Player control is very good. Rex is very easy to maneuver, but advancing in some lands is more difficult than in others. One shortcoming of Radical Rex is the lack of a save game feature. Once the machine is turned off or reset, you cannot begin again from your last point in the game. The game does have a nice feature for saving progress while playing. Spaced along the game are torches. Simply light each torch as you pass it and then you will go to the last lit torch if Rex dies during that game. Radical Rex is an excellent game for parents to share with their young children. Children simply adore dinosaurs! The game is fun with simple controls, yet it can be challenging for adults as well. The game is filled with humor to make it even more enjoyable. Ratings Graphics ........... 9.0 Sounds ............. 9.0 Control ............ 8.5 Fun ................ 9.0 Bang for the Buck .. 9.0 Average ............ 8.9 ### Simon & Schuster Interactive announces the release of "I.M. Meen," the first title in the "Action Learning" series of software products. This CD-ROM product combines 3-D maze action similar to "Doom" with grammar and writing lessons. "I. M. Meen" is designed for children ages nine and up. The program features three levels of difficulty based on third, fifth and eighth grade reading levels. The plot of the game is that the player has been lured into the library and tossed into the dungeon of I.M. Meen. The object of this edutainment title is for the player to traverse thirty-six dungeon levels. In the dungeon, he will find more than 150 scrolls which have been poorly written by librarian Meen. To escape the maze, the child must correct Meen's spelling, punctuation and grammar errors. Meanwhile, he must avoid hordes of spiders, skeletons and mad scientists who patrol the dungeon. "I.M. Meen" promises state-of-the-art gaming combined with fun learning. Look for a review of this title in a future edition of the Silicon Times Report. ### Also on the review docket are Hometime Weekend Home Projects, Richard Scarry's How Things Work in Busytown, Spellbound!, Super Solvers Gizmos & Gadgets and Shanghai: Great Moments. As always, I thank you for reading. _______________________________________________ > DELRINA UPDATES STR InfoFile """""""""""""""""""""""""""" DELRINA ANNOUNCES COMMSUITE FOR NETWORKS ======================================== DELRINA INTRODUCES NEW WINFAX SCANNER Enables Enterprise Workgroups, SOHO Users to Access Modems for Both Fax and Data Transmissions Across the Network COMDEX SPRING, ATLANTA, GA -- Booth 8415 -- April 24, 1995 -- Delrina Corporation (NASDAQ:DENAF, TSE:DC), the worldwide leader in PC fax software, today announced Delrina CommSuite<tm> for Networks. CommSuite for Networks includes a new network communications component -- Delrina CommServer<tm> -- that supersedes the server component of Delrina's market leading network fax software, WinFax PRO<tm> for Networks 4.0. CommSuite for Networks enables workgroups to access and share fax modems across a local area network for bothfax and data communications. It has a new DLL-based (Dynamic Link Library) architecture that frees up essential DOS memory (and system resources), and ensures greater transmission reliability. In addition, CommSuite for Networks provides network access to Delrina's Fax Broadcast<tm> service so users can broadcast faxes to large groups without tying up network resources. Finally, the new software supports a broader range of hardware (more than 600 fax modems), including the full array of GammaLink fax modems. A starter pack of the network product that includes two copies each of WinFax PRO 4.0 and WinComm PRO 1.1 with Internet Messenger, and one Delrina CommServer will be avilable in early June. CommSuite for Networks, like WinFax PRO for Networks, is aimed at departmental and enterprise workgroup requirements and for small office / home office users (SOHO). Both network solutions run on Novell<R> NetWare<R>, Microsoft<R> Windows<tm> for Workgroups, Artisoft<R> LANtastic<R>, Microsoft LAN Manager, IBM<R> LAN Server, and virtually any other IPX or NetBIOS based network. CommSuite for Networks includes all of the capabilities that the current WinFax PRO for Networks provides, and adds several essential new benefits. A Common Modem Pool for Fax and Data Communications --------------------------------------------------- CommSuite for Networks includes the ability to access and share fax modems across the network for both fax and data communications. WinFax PRO for Networks only enabled users to access fax modems for facsimile transmissions requiring users to add additional hardware and modem pooling software to provide data communications capabilities. CommSuite for Networks, however, enables access of all network fax modems for data transmissions as well. This permits users to access network modems using WinComm PRO for on-line communications such as connecting to bulletin boards (like CRS Online), on-line services (such as America Online and CompuServe), legacy systems through terminal emulation, and the Internet. DLL-based Technology Frees Up System Resources ---------------------------------------------- CommSuite for Networks is DLL-based, which means that accessing networks fax modems does not require the pre-loading of memory resident drivers in DOS. This frees up essential system resources, which become scarce because of the additional overhead required by network drivers. Technology Breakthrough For Improved Reliability ------------------------------------------------ Delrina CommServer (the workgroup communications server in CommSuite for Networks) uses a unique technology to ensure the reliability of fax transmissions by compensating for network latency. All of the competitive workgroup solutions today that are based on LAN communication (comm) re-director technology, are inherently fallible for faxing. This is because facsimile communications, unlike straight data communications, has very critical timing requirements and requires a continuous data stream during transmission. Any delay or miscue in timing of this stream will cause a fax to fail. Comm re-director technology is dependent on the data stream being fed to the fax modem through the network and is thus susceptible to network traffic delays, known as network latency. While such delays can be measured in milliseconds, the fax protocols are quite stringent -- fax transmission failures can occur with delays as little as 50 milliseconds. The Delrina CommServer component of CommSuite for Networks provides for a continuous flow of data, eliminating sensitivity to network latency, to ensure reliable fax transmissions. Network Access To Delrina Fax Broadcast Service ----------------------------------------------- CommSuite for Networks offers direct access to Delrina's pay-as-you-use Fax Broadcast service. The service, which was launched in November 1993, enables users to broadcast a fax document to up to 10,000 recipients virtually simultaneously with a single toll free call. Rather than utilizing network fax modems and phone lines to execute a fax broadcast, users can easily initiate the broadcast by "clicking" on the broadcast option built into WinFax from the Send screen dialog. The document, along with the list of recipients, which the user selects form his or her WinFax phonebook, is immediately uploaded to the service. The service then broadcasts to thousands of recipients virtually simultaneously, freeing up the network for other tasks. Users can then receive a report to verify that the faxes have been delivered. Broader Hardware Support Including GammaLink Fax Modems ------------------------------------------------------- CommSuite for Networks supports more than 600 fax modems that are compatible with the Class 1 and Class 2 industry standards, and the Pure Data SatisFAXtion hardware (formerly Intel SatisFAXtion). The product now supports the range of GammaLink fax modems from GammaLink of Sunnyvale, California. GammaLink fax modems are recognized as one of the leading and most reliable fax hardware devices for mission critical applications. The Network Fax Ground Swell ---------------------------- Delrina's network fax and communications solution is aimed at enterprise workgroup and SOHO requirements, which are different from the needs of an enterprise wide solution. According to Judith Pirani, Sr. Analyst, Image Communications, at BIS Strategic Decisions of Norwell, Mass., "there is a distinct market segmentation between the departmental or workgroup approach and the enterprise wide solution both in terms of marketing and technical requirements. Typical workgroup solutions, which have grown out of the pooling of fax modems and relatively inexpensive fax servers, are aimed at networks of up to 50 users, while the enterprise wide solutions concentrate on networks of more than 50 users. In terms of market growth, our studies forecast the fax server market to rise from 72,000 units in 1994 to 461,000 units by 1998. Of this market total, workgroup solutions will come to represent more than two-thirds of the units shipped." "WinFax PRO for Networks (and now CommSuite for Networks) has evolved out of the grass roots need of stand-alone users to share their fax modems and phone lines with others in a workgroup environment," said Dave Wilmering, product manager at Delrina. "The spread of this technology is a 'ground-up' decision, which contrasts sharply from the proverbial 'enterprise' fax server, where the decision to provide such a solution is typically a 'top-down' MIS decision." As a result, WinFax PRO for Networks has enjoyed overwhelming success in a market that is still in its infancy. Since its release in November 1993, Delrina has registered over 375,000 WinFax PRO for Networks users making it the world's leading enterprise workgroup fax solution. Pricing and Upgrade Information ------------------------------- Available in early June, a starter kit of CommSuite for Networks that includes two copies each of the network-enabled WinFax PRO 4.0 and WinComm PRO 1.1 with Internet Messenger (i.e. a network-enabled version of Communications Suite 2.1), plus the new communications server component Delrina CommServer, retails for $549 ($699 Cdn). Delrina will continue to market WinFax PRO for Networks but will upgrade the server component with the new communications technology. The WinFax PRO for Networks starter kit remains $399 ($499 Cdn). Delrina WinFax PRO for Networks (3.0 and 4.0) servers can be upgraded to Delrina CommServer for $29 ($39 Cdn). Delrina is also offering a competitive upgrade for $359 ($479 Cdn). Multiple client packs for 10, 25 and 50 users are also available for fax only (WinFax PRO clients) and for both fax and data (CommSuite clients) users. A 50 user pack of WinFax PRO for Networks retails for $4299 ($5589 Cdn), and a 50 user pack of CommSuite for Networks retails for $5799 ($7799 Cdn). As server capacity requirements expand, users can purchase Delrina CommServer separately for a retail price of $179 ($249 Cdn). DELRINA INTRODUCES NEW WINFAX<TM> SCANNER Complete Fax Solution for PC Users Turns Fax Modem Into Fax Machine and Printer into Copier COMDEX SPRING, ATLANTA, GA -- Booth 8415 -- April 24, 1995 -- Delrina Corporation (NASDAQ:DENAF, TSE:DC) today announced WinFax Scanner for Windows -- a simple paper input device with the world's best selling fax software -- offering the first complete alternative to the fax machine. The all-in-one-box fax solution incorporates Delrina WinFax PRO 4.0 with Xerox TextBridge document reading technology and a Fujitsu multi-page scanner, allowing individuals to scan, send, edit, file, and copy documents. The result of a venture announced earlier by Delrina and Fujitsu Computer Products of America Inc., the WinFax Scanner will be available in May at an expected street price of US$299 (Cdn$399), including a US$30 (Cdn $50) rebate from Delrina. "Our customers have been asking us for a way to get rid of their fax machines entirely since we launched WinFax PRO three years ago," said Tony Katz, product manager at Delrina. "Now, coupling the communications power of WinFax PRO with the capability of paper scanning and copying, we've made faxing from a PC even more attractive -- and the stand-alone fax machine virtually obsolete." WinFax Scanner -------------- The compact (11.5 in. by 4.2 in., 3.5 lbs.) Delrina WinFax Scanner easily connects to a desktop or laptop computer using a parallel port connector. A second parallel port on the Fujitsu scanner can be connected to a printer for copying purposes. The unit operates just like a fax machine using a 10-page automatic document feeder for hands-free operation and an "instant on" feature which scans up to six pages per minute from within any Windows application. Business card to legal size documents can be input at 100 to 300 dpi resolution, from line art to 256 grayscale. Once in the WinFax Scanner desktop, scans can be sorted, straightened, cleaned-up or inverted for better viewing. In the desktop users can also select buttons to fax, file, edit, OCR, or copy documents. The faxing function can be preset to be automatically invoked once a document is completely scanned into the computer. The WinFax Scanner can save scanned images in more than 25 file formats including BMP, TIFF and PCX. Unlike other scanner products, Delrina's product is TWAIN-compliant and works with many document imaging and office applications software which support TWAIN. WinFax PRO 4.0 -------------- Delrina's popular WinFax PRO 4.0 is the easiest way to send, receive, and manage faxes in Windows. The software has an advanced phonebook to support sending of scanned documents to multiple recipients and groups, whether by fax or company e-mail. With Delrina's new Fax Broadcast Service, accessible through WinFax, one can send a scanned document to up to 10,000 destinations virtually simultaneously with a single call. Fax numbers stored in personal information or contact managers can be automatically added to the WinFax phonebook. Included in WinFax PRO 4.0 is a unique cover page designer program and Cover Your Fax, a collection of 101 predesigned cover pages. WinFax maintains logs of all sent and received faxes. With WinFax PRO 4.0 users can easily combine documents from multiple Windows applications and scanned pages into a single fax transmission. With the built-in Xerox TextBridge optical character recognition software users can also automatically turn scanned pages into editable text for incorporation into popular word processors or spreadsheets. Users can file all fax or scanned documents electronically into customizable folders for later use. Tim Bajarin, president of Creative Strategies Research International Inc., a market research and business consulting firm, said he is impressed with Delrina's new package, "For the price of a high-end handheld scanner I get a more versatile, high quality scanner plus the communications capabilities. With this solution I can do away with my fax machine and my personal copier." Warranty and Support -------------------- Delrina WinFax Scanner comes with a unique 48-hour hardware replacement warranty provided by Fujitsu for one year. Customers dial one number for hardware and software support provided by Delrina's award-winning technical support team. Availability Delrina WinFax Scanner will be available through mail order, independent retailers, and national chains throughout the U.S. and Canada. Upgrades are available direct from Delrina. Existing WinFax PRO 4.0 customers can purchase the scanner only for US$279 (Cdn$379) and other WinFax users can purchase the complete solution for US$299 (Cdn$399), plus shipping and handling. There are more than 10 million small businesses in the U.S. and Canada that as one-person operations could benefit from the all-in-one-box approach of Delrina's WinFax Scanner. According to market research firm BIS Strategic Decisions, the market for sheetfed scanners is expected to reach 230,000 units in 1995 and grow by 50% per year for the foreseeable future. Most users require a simple input device, like a sheetfed scanner, to scan in paper documents in order to send them out again by fax or e-mail. By contrast, nine million fax modems shipped in 1994 and growth rates are predicted to be about 25% per year. "Many users are discovering the benefits of faxing from their PCs, as evidenced by the significant growth in fax modem and fax software unit shipments," said Kristy Holch, director of Scanning Market Strategies at BIS. "Delrina's new fax scanner builds on this market momentum through an innovative partnership with Fujitsu and the burgeoning awareness of WinFax PRO among PC users." Since 1991, Delrina has shipped more than 10 million copies of WinFax and WinFax PRO. About Delrina ------------- Delrina Corporation designs, develops, markets and supports innovative PC software products and services in the fax, data and voice communications, electronic forms, and consumer software markets. Founded in 1988, the Company is ranked in sales among the top fifteen software publishers in North America and is recognized as the worldwide leader in PC fax and forms. Delrina employs more than 700 people with offices in Toronto and Ottawa, Canada; San Jose, CA;Kirkland, WA; Washington, DC; Lexington, MA; the United Kingdom; France; and Germany. Delrina can be contacted at 1-800-268-6082. """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" A T T E N T I O N -- A T T E N T I O N -- A T T E N T I O N FARGO PRIMERA PRO COLOR PRINTERS - 600DPI For a limited time only; If you wish to have a FREE sample printout sent to you that demonstrates FARGO Primera & Primera Pro SUPERIOR QUALITY 600dpi 24 bit Photo Realistic Color Output, please send a Self Addressed Stamped Envelope [SASE] (business sized envelope please) to: STReport's Fargo Printout Offer P.O. Box 6672 Jacksonville, Florida 32205-6155 Folks, the FARGO Primera Pro has GOT to be the best yet. Its far superior to the newest of Color Laser Printers selling for more than three times as much. Its said that ONE Picture is worth a thousand words. Send for this sample now. Guaranteed you will be amazed at the superb quality. (please, allow at least a one week turn-around) A T T E N T I O N -- A T T E N T I O N -- A T T E N T I O N """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" :HOW TO GET YOUR OWN GENIE ACCOUNT: _________________________________ Set your communications software to Half Duplex (or Local Echo) Call: (with modem) 800-638-8369. Upon connection type HHH (RETURN after that). Wait for the U#= prompt. Type: XTX99587,CPUREPT then, hit RETURN. GENIE Information Services copyright 1995 by General Electric Information Services/GENIE, reprinted by permission """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" ___ ___ _____ _______ /___| /___| /_____| /_______/ /____|/____| /__/|__| /__/ /_____|_____|/__/_|__|/__/ /__/|____/|__|________|__/ /__/ |___/ |__|_/ |__|_/_____ /__/ |__/ |__|/ |__|______/ ________________________________________ /_______________________________________/ MAC/APPLE SECTION (II) ====================== John Deegan, Editor (Temp) > HAYES UPDATES STR Spotlight """"""""""""""""""""""""""" HAYES POSTS SECOND QUARTER PROFITS ================================== Corporate Turnaround Points to Reorganization Success ATLANTA, GA, 15 April 1995 -- Hayes Microcomputer Products, Inc.'s aggressive reorganization efforts have resulted in operating profits of approximately $1.5 million on sales of approximately $65 million for second quarter of FY 1995. This is the second consecutive quarter the company has posted operating profits this fiscal year. "The cost reductions and operational improvements we have put in place are starting to take hold and are making Hayes stronger," says Hayes President and Founder Dennis C. Hayes. "The company has made great strides in strengthening its executive team, improving capacity and reducing supply constraints. Clearly we are on track for a solid recovery." Hayes Microcomputer Products, Inc., which has been under Chapter 11 Federal Bankruptcy protection since 15 November 1994, has experienced record sales levels during the past two quarters. Bookings for the company set record levels and reached in excess of $74 million for the second quarter of FY 1995. Those results reflect a 34 percent increase in year-to-year total of unit shipments, and are in excess of 100 percent unit growth year-to-year for PCMCIA and high speed modems. Several changes in Hayes operations are playing a key role in the company's turnaround. The merger of Practical Peripherals, Inc. and Hayes Microcomputers Products, Inc. is complete and is starting to make a significant economic impact; inventories have been reduced by 22 percent, or $12 million dollars; and manufacturing improvements have allowed gross margins to be virtually restored to 1993 levels. Best known as the leader in microcomputer modems, Hayes develops, supplies and supports computer communications equipment and software for personal computers and computer communications networks. The company distributes its products through a global network of authorized distributors, dealers, mass merchants, VARs, systems integrators and original equipment manufacturers. HAYES ANNOUNCES NEW QUAD ULTRA 288 MODEM LINE CARD FOR MILLENNIUM 8000 HIGH DENSITY COMMUNICATIONS PLATFORM Supports speeds up to 230,400 bit/s with 8:1 Data Compression Atlanta, GA, 24 April 1995 -- Hayes Microcomputer Products, Inc. today announced immediate availability of Hayes Quad ULTRA Smartmodem 28800 (Quad ULTRA 288) Line Card for Hayes Millennium 8000 Network System. Quad ULTRA 288 implements four modems per line card and a system capacity of 64 modems per chassis in Hayes Millennium 8000 Network System. Each modem provides high-speed dial-up communications at rates up to 230,400 bit/s - over a megabyte a minute - using 8:1 data compression. Quad ULTRA 288 is now shipping in the United States and Canada for US$3599 and CN$4899. "The release of the Quad ULTRA 288 line card completes the scope of high-speed, high density communications devices," said Hayes President Dennis C. Hayes. "The combination of V.34 technology and a high density network system allows information services and corporate LANs to provide the fastest dial-up communications available for remote node access, multimedia, shared modem pooling, and host computer access." Quad ULTRA 288 supports ITU-T V.34 and V.Fast Class (V.FC) for 28,800 bit/s data transmission; ITU-T V.42 error-control; V.42bis data compression featuring Hayes superior implementation of 8:1 data compression for 230,400 bit/s. The new quad cards are fully compatible with the installed base of V.34 and V.FC (28,800 bit/s), V.32bis (14,400 bit/s), V.32 (9600 bit/s), V.22bis (2400 bit/s), and V.22 (1200 bit/s) modems. Additional features include asynchronous and synchronous communications, Flash ROM for easy upgrading, "Hot Swap" capability for continuous services during system modifications and Remote Configuration, over the LAN, utilizing Hayes Millennium 8000 Control Station Software. Hayes Millennium 8000 Network System is a high-density rackmount modem platform for integrating local and wide-area data networks. The Millennium 8000 Chassis serves as a versatile front-end platform that houses all system components including Modem Line Cards, Controller Cards and Connector Cards. Redundant Controller Cards provide complete system management and connectivity to an Ethernet local area network. Each chassis can integrate up to 16 Quad ULTRA 288 modem line cards for a maximum of 64 modems. Multiple chassis' can be integrated into a single system for virtually unlimited line capacity. All functions are managed from a remote PC connected to the LAN using Windows-based Control Station Software. Best known as the leader in microcomputer modems, Hayes develops, supplies and supports computer communications equipment and software for personal computers and computer communications networks. The company distributes its products through a global network of authorized distributors, dealers, mass merchants, VARs, systems integrators and original equipment manufacturers. ### Hayes, Smartmodem, Millennium and ULTRA are trademarks of Hayes Microcomputer Products, Inc. Other trademarks mentioned are trademarks of their respective companies. For additional information, customers should contact Hayes Sales Support: Telephone Hayes Online BBS 404/441-1617 (U.S.) 404/446-6336 (U.S.) 519/746-6459 (Canada) 404/729-6525 (ISDN U.S.) +33 1 34 22 30 15 (France) +44 1252 775599 (Europe) +44 1252 775544 (Europe) +44 1252 812560 (ISDN Europe) +852 2887 1037 (Hong Kong) +852 2887 7590 (Hong Kong) +61 2 959 5544 (Australia) +61 2 959 5287 (Australia) GO HAYES (CompuServe Worldwide) Hayes is a trademark of Hayes Microcomputer Products, Inc. Other trademarks mentioned are trademarks of their respective companies. __________________________________________ > SCSI TIDBITS STR FOCUS! ADAPTEC HINTS & KINKS """"""""""""""""""""""" SCSI TIDBITS ============ FAST SCSI: ---------- There are 2 handshaking modes on the SCSI bus, used for transferring data: ASYNCHRONOUS and SYNCHRONOUS. ASYNCHRONOUS is a classic Req/Ack handshake. SYNCHRONOUS is "sort of" Req/Ack, only it allows you to issue multiple Req's before receiving Ack's. What this means in practice is that SYNCHRONOUS transfers are approx 3 times faster than ASYNCHRONOUS. SCSI1 allowed asynchronous transfers at up to 1.5 Mbytes/Sec and synchronous transfers at up to 5.0 Mbytes/Sec. SCSI2 had some of the timing margins "shaved" in order that faster handshaking could occur. The result is that asynchronous transfers can run at up to 3.0 bytes/Sec and synchronous transfers at up to 10.0 Mbytes/Sec. The term "FAST" is generally applied to a SCSI device which can do syncrhonous transfers at speeds in excess of 5.0 Mbytes/Sec. This term can only be applied to SCSI2 devices since SCSI1 didn't have the timing margins that allow for FAST transfers. Differential SCSI: ------------------ For each signal that needs to be sent across the bus, there exists a pair of wires to carry it. The first in this pair carries the same type of signal the single-ended SCSI carries. The second in this pair, however, carries its logical inversion. The receiver takes the difference of the pair (thus the name differential), which makes it less susceptible to noise and allows for greater cable length. Single-ended SCSI (normal SCSI): -------------------------------- For each signal that needs to be sent across the bus, there exists a wire to carry it. Wide SCSI: ---------- SCSI may now transfer data at bus widths of 16 and 32 bits. Commands, status, messages and arbitration are still 8 bits, and the B-Cable has 68 pins for data bits. Cabling was a confusing issue in the closing days of SCSI-2, because the first project of SCSI-3 was the definition of a 16-bit wide P-Cable which supported 16-bit arbitration as well as 16-bit data transfers. Although SCSI-2 does not contain a definition of the P-Cable, it is quite possible that within the year, the P-Cable will be most popular non-SCSI-2 feature on SCSI-2 products. The market responds to what it wants, not the the arbitrary cutoffs of standards committees. Fast SCSI: ---------- A 10 MHz transfer rate for SCSI came out of a joint effort with the IPI (Intelligent Peripheral Interface) committee in ASC X3T9.3. Fast SCSI achieves 10 Megabytes/second on the A-Cable and with wider data paths of 16- and 32-bits can rise to 20 Megabytes/second and even 40 Megabytes/second. However, by the time the market starts demanding 40 Megabytes/second it is likely that the effort to serialize the physical interface for SCSI-3 will attract high-performance SCSI users to the Fiber Channel. A word of caution. At this time the fast parameters cannot be met by the Single Ended electrical class, and is only suitable for Differential. One of the goals in SCSI-3 is to identify the improvements needed to achieve 10 MHz operation with Single Ended components. SCSI Termination: ----------------- The Single Ended electrical class depends on very tight termination tolerances, but the passive 132 ohm termination defined in 1986 is mismatched with the cable impedance (typically below 100 ohms). Although not a problem at low speeds when only a few devices are connected, reflections can cause errors when transfer rates increase and/or more devices are added. In SCSI-2, an active terminator has been defined which lowers termination to 110 ohms and is a major boost to system integrity. Command Queueing: ----------------- In SCSI-1, initiators were limited to one command per LUN e.g. a disk drive. Now up to 256 commands can be outstanding to one LUN. The target is allowed to re-sequence the order of command execution to optimize seek motions. Queued commands require Tag messages which follow the Identify. Is SYNCHRONOUS faster than ASYNCHRONOUS? ---------------------------------------- Asynchronous is faster on short cables, while synchronous is faster on long cables. The reason has to do with the propagation delay of the cable; the turn around time of the silicon; and the interlocked nature of the asynchronous handshake. 1) We have measured propagation delays from various cables and found an average of 1.7 nanoseconds per foot, which is roughly 5.25 ns per meter. 2) The turn-around time is the amount of time the SCSI chip takes to change an output in response to an input. If REQ is an input then ACK is an output. Or if ACK is an input then REQ is an output. Typical turn-around time for the 53C90 is 40 nanoseconds. 3) The asynchronous transfer uses an interlocked handshake where a device cannot do the next thing until it receives positive acknowledgment that the other device received the last thing. First REQ goes true /* driven by Target */ then ACK is permitted to go true /* driven by Initiator */ then REQ is permitted to go false then ACK is permitted to go false Thus we have four "edges" propagating down the cable plus 4 turn-around delays. Asynchronous transfer requires 55 ns setup and no hold time (paragraph in 5.1.5.1 in SCSI-1 or SCSI-2) which gives an upper speed limit around 18 MB/s. A detailed analysis shows that the setup time subtracts out. This is mostly because we are running at one-third the max rate, but also because setup for the next byte can begin anytime after ACK is received true or REQ is received false, depending on who is receiving. You can either take my word for it or draw the waveforms yourself. Thus, the asynchronous transfer reduces to: (4 * 1.7 * 1) + (4 * 40ns) = 167 ns /* 1 foot cable */ = 6 MB/s (4 * 5.25 * 6) + (4 * 40ns) = 286 ns /* 6 meter cable */ = 3.5 MB/s (4 * 5.25 * 25) + (4 * 40ns) = 685 ns /* 25 meter cable */ = 1.5 MB/s Note: cables longer than 6 meters require external differential transceivers which add delay and degrade the performance even more than indicated here. Our simulations say that under very best conditions (fast silicon, low temperature, high voltage, zero length cable) we can expect more than 8 MB/s asynchronously. In the lab, I routinely measure 5 MB/s on 8 foot cables. So, if you were writing the data manual for this, how would YOU spec it? The framers of the SCSI spec threw in synchronous mode to boost the performance on long cables. In synchronous mode, the sending device is permitted to send the next byte without receiving acknowledgment that the receiver actually received the last byte. Kind of a ship and pray method. The acknowledgment is required to come back sometime, but we just don't have to wait for it (handwave the offset stuff and the ending boundary conditions). In this mode any external transceivers add a time shift, but not a delay. So if you negotiate for 5 MB/s, you get 5MB/s regardless how long the cable is and regardless whether you are single-ended or differential. But you can't go faster than 5.5 MB/s, except in SCSI-2. Synchronous mode does have a hold time (unlike asynch) but again, setup and hold times subtract out. In SCSI-1 synchronous mode, the speed limit comes from the combined ASSERTION PERIOD + NEGATION PERIOD which is 90ns + 90ns = 180ns = 5.5 MB/s. Our 53C90 family doesn't quite hit the max, but we do guarentee 5.0 MB/s. In SCSI-2, anything above 5.0 MB/s is considered to be FAST. Here the maximum transfer rate is explicitly limited to 100 ns or 10MB/s; you don't have to read between the lines to deduce it. Interesting tid-bit: given a SCSI-2 FAST period of 100 ns and a cable delay of 131 ns on a 25 meter cable, you can actually stack 1.31 bytes in the 8-bit cable. In FAST and WIDE SCSI you can stack 5.24 bytes in this copper FIFO. Active Termination: ------------------- An active terminator actually has one or more voltage regulators to produce the termination voltage, rather than using resistor voltage dividers. This is a passive terminator: ----------------------------- TERMPWR ------/\/\/\/------+------/\/\/\/----- GND | | SCSI signal Notice that the termination voltage is varies with the voltage on the TERMPWR line. One voltage divider (two resistors) is used for each SCSI signal. An active terminator looks more like this (supply filter caps omitted): +-----------+ TERMPWR -----| in out |------+------/\/\/\/-------SCSI signal | gnd | | +-----------+ | | +------/\/\/\/-------SCSI signal | | GND ---------------+ | +------/\/\/\/-------SCSI signal | etc. Assuming that the TERMPWR voltage doesn't drop below the desired termination voltage (plus the regulator's minimum drop), the SCSI signals will always be terminated to the correct voltage level. The SCSI specification is available from: ----------------------------------------- Global Engineering Documents 15 Inverness Way East Englewood Co 80112-5704 (800) 854-7179 SCSI-1: X3.131-1986 SCSI-2: X3.131-199x SCSI-3 X3T9.2/91-010R4 Working Draft Global Engineering Documentation in Irvine, CA (714)261-1455 SCSI-1: Doc # X3.131-1986 from ANSI, 1430 Broadway, NY, NY 10018 IN-DEPTH EXPLORATION OF SCSI can be obtained from Solution Technology Attn: SCSI Publications PO Box 104 Boulder Creek, CA 95006 (408)338-4285, FAX (408)338-4374 THE SCSI ENCYLOPEDIA and the SCSI BENCH REFERENCE can be obtained from ENDL Publishing 14426 Black Walnut Ct. Saratoga, CA 95090 (408)867-6642 FAX (408)867-2115 SCSI: UNDERSTANDING THE SMALL COMPUTER SYSTEM INTERFACE was published by Prentice-Hall, ISBN 0-13-796855-8 Adaptec Phone Numbers: 800-442-7274 Software Order Hotline 408-957-7150 Interactive Fax 800-934-2766 Literature Hotline 408-945-7727 24 Hour Technical Support BBS ********************************************************************** IMPORTANT NOTICE! ================= STReport International OnLine Magazine is available every week for your reading pleasure on DELPHI. STReport's readers are invited to join DELPHI and become a part of an extremely friendly community of enthusiastic computer users there. SIGNING UP WITH DELPHI ====================== Using a personal computer and modem, members worldwide access DELPHI services via a local phone call JOIN --DELPHI -------------- Via modem, dial up DELPHI at 1-800-695-4002 then... When connected, press RETURN once or twice and... At Password: type STREPORT and press RETURN. DELPHI's 20/20 Advantage Plan 20 Hours for Only $20! ----------------------------- Advantage Members have always enjoyed the lowest DELPHI access rates available. On the new 20/20 Advantage Plan, members receive their first 20 hours of access each month for only $20. If you happen to meet someone OnLine or find some other diversion, don't worry because additional usage is only $1.80 per hour. 20/20 Advantage rates apply for access via SprintNet or Tymnet from within the continental United States during home time or via direct dial around the clock. Home Time is from 6pm to 6am weekdays. Access during business time carries a surcharge of $9 per hour. These rates apply for most services, but note that there are some surcharged areas on DELPHI which are clearly marked with a "$" sign. Who is eligible to take advantage of the plan? Any DELPHI member in good standing. Applications are reviewed and subject to approval by Delphi Internet Services Corporation. It's easy to join. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply OnLine -- at any time -- for membership in the DELPHI 20/20 Advantage Plan. Your membership becomes active at 4 a.m. Eastern Time on the first billing day of the following month. The $20 charge will be billed to you at the beginning of the month to which it applies. Any portion of the 20 hours not used in any month does not carry forward into the next month. Advantage rates may be changed with 30 days notice given OnLine. TRY DELPHI FOR $1 AN HOUR! For a limited time, you can become a trial member of DELPHI, and receive 5 hours of evening and weekend access during this month for only $5. If you're not satisfied, simply cancel your account before the end of the calendar month with no further obligation. If you keep your account active, you will automatically be enrolled in DELPHI's 10/4 Basic Plan, where you can use up to 4 weekend and evening hours a month for a minimum $10 monthly charge, with additional hours available at $3.96. But hurry, this special trial offer will expire soon! To take advantage of this limited offer, use your modem to dial 1-800-365-4636. Press <RET> once or twice. When you get the Password: prompt, type IP26 and press <RET> again. Then, just answer the questions and within a day or two, you'll officially be a member of DELPHI! DELPHI-It's the BEST Value and getting BETTER all the time! -* ANNOUNCING: DELPHI INTERNET JET *- -------------------------------------- Windows-based graphic interface for the otherwise text-only Delphi online service. In addition to providing the user with a graphic interface, Delphi Internet Jet can be configured to automatically gather Delphi Internet e-mail and forum messages, and place them into a QWK packet for the user's existing QWK mail reader! Complete instructions for setup, operation, Delphi membership, and a FREE five hour trial included in the INTJET.TXT file. ************************************************************ ATARI/JAG SECTION (III) ======================= Dana Jacobson, Editor > From the Atari Editor's Desk "Saying it like it is!" """""""""""""""""""""""""""" I try to spend a lot of time considering a good editorial topic for each of our weekly issues of STReport. Sometimes, a topic will be so obvious that it makes life here very easy. At other times, it's quite difficult. And at times, my mind simply can't focus on anything in particular! For the most part, the difficulty lies with the fact that Atari computing, in general, has shrunk. New developments, while not always plentiful in the past, has certainly decreased in the present. I know, tell you something you don't already know! What I'd like to do this week is solicit YOUR ideas, your opinions, and your concerns. What would you like to see us cover in these pages? What would you write in this editorial space if you had the opportunity? Well, here's your chance to make your voices and opinions public. Drop me a line with your questions, thoughts, or whatever concern that you might have - we'll put you in the editor's chair for a week! The world has become an arena for bad news lately. It seems that every newspaper front page that we see everyday is full of the latest tragedy. However, somewhere hidden in a back section is some joyous news. Since this is the Atari section of STReport, let's report some terrific news. There was a message posted on CompuServe this week from one of our friends from ACT, the organizers of the Connecticut AtariFest folks: Congratulations are in order for Brian Gockley @ ST Informer...and his lovely wife Angela. A few days ago (Tuesday, I think) Angela delivered their second child, David Andrew, an 8-pound, 6-ounce bundle of joy. If we don't see Brian in the Atari forums for a few days, I suspect he might be catching some shut-eye from a demanding evening schedule. Best wishes from a Gockley fan. Doug Finch Congratulations Angela and Brian, from your friends at STReport!! Until next time... ______________________________________________________ Delphi's Atari Advantage!! TOP FIVE DOWNLOADS (4/26/95) (1) UNIVERSAL PRINT CONTROL ACC (2) SPEED OF LIGHT 3.7B (3) SILKBOOT 3 *(4) SPEED OF LIGHT 3.8 (5) LITTLENET/MIDI PORT NETWORK PRG. * = New on list HONORARY TOP 5 The following on-line magazines are always top downloads, frequently out-performing every other file in the databases. STREPORT (Current issue: STREPORT 11.16) ATARI EXPLORER ONLINE (Current issue: AEO: VOLUME 4, ISSUE 4) Look for the above files in the RECENT ARRIVALS database. __________________________________________ > Substation! STR GameFile! - New Falcon/STE game """"""""""""""""""""""""" Substation ~~~~~~~~~~~ Story line In 1996, Mitushi Industries, a small Japanese industrial group, is researching alternative energy sources. What they come up with is so unbelievable it might just be possible. Three years later, Mitushi's 'IEE' (Inside Earth Energy) base Substation at 2500 meters below sea-level provides Japan's two largest cities with all their power needs. June 6th 2004, 11.15am: Contact with Substation is lost. In panic, Mitushi's Board of Directors pay the U.S. government an unknown amount of money to lease an 'M.E.M' (Multi-Environment Marine) to find out what has happened. Visuals ------- SubStation is an incredible action game in which the player moves freely in an extremely fast real-time gouraud-shaded 3D world. The screen refresh rate for the 3D world alone is an amazing 25fps (frames per second) in a resolution of 320*160 using 3 bitplanes. The 3D system is a state of the art development solution written by Mikael Emtinger and Oskar Burman, and will make Substation one of the most technically advanced games ever to appear on the STE or Falcon. Gameplay -------- Substation runs on any Atari STE 1Mb or Falcon with RGB or VGA monitor. Your character is controlled either using the keyboard or Jaguar PowerPad. You can run, walk, strafe, pick up items, choose between a great number of weapons, open doors, access elevators between the different sub-levels and even strafe, rotate, run and fire your gun at the same time, giving you total control of your actions! DD Audio -------- To further increase the horrifying atmosphere in Substation, Tord Jansson (responsible for the amazing sound routines in Obsession) developed a special sound effect system called DD Audio (Distance & Direction) which enables you to hear where monsters are lurking. The combined effect of foggy colours and pit-pat of tiny monster feet from the far left will give you nightmares.... MIDI-Link --------- By utilizing the link capabilities of Substation, you can play against other humans in special combat levels using the MIDI ports. Up to four players can take part in a game, either by forming two teams, or every man for himself... In MIDI-Link Mode you gain credits for which you can buy extra ammo, first-aid kits, food or new weaponry. Scheduled Release Date : May 1st 1995 Price : 24.95GBP (UK) 26.95GBP (Europe) 29.95GBP (Rest of the World) Available from : MERLIN PO Box 77 Stroud Glos GL6 9YD U.K. Telephone : 01452 770133 Fax: 01452 770133 or EMAIL orders : POPEMERLIN@DELPHI.COM Credit Cards only. Cheques/Cash/Postal Orders must be sent. All Payment must be in Sterling. ________________________________________ > Soft-Logik Support! STR InfoFile! - Tech Support Policy Update! """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" NOTE: THIS SUPERSEDES THE TECHNICAL SUPPORT OPTIONS LISTED IN YOUR PROGRAM MANUAL! SOFT-LOGIK TECHNICAL SUPPORT OPTIONS Soft-Logik offers several levels of technical support to make getting help easy and accessible. You can choose the technical support option which best suits your needs. Technical support via telephone is available only for customers paying for support. FREE BASIC SUPPORT SERVICES If you don't want to pay for technical support, Soft-Logik offers a variety of basic support services to answer your questions free of charge. FREE ONLINE SUPPORT We normally answer questions within 24 hours every business day on GEnie, CompuServe and the Soft-Logik BBS. (Good support is also available from a designated volunteer on Portal.) The latest program modules and patches are available online. GEnie: type SOFTLOGIK CompuServe: type GO AMIGAVEN Portal: type GO SOFTLOGIK BBS: 314-256-8971 Internet: comp.sys.amiga.applications (email tech@slpc.com) FREE MAIL SUPPORT Please include your name, address, registration number and full details of your problem when mailing or faxing us questions. We will MAIL you a reply as soon as possible; technical support cannot phone or fax you back. If you are in a hurry, please use a different technical support option. Fax: 314-256-7773 Mail: Soft-Logik Support, 315 Consort Drive, St. Louis, MO 63011 USA PAID ANNUAL SUPPORT --- For those who always need someone to turn to. If you are a desktop publishing professional, you know how frustrating it can be to need an answer and not have anyone to turn to. With the Soft-Logik Annual Support plan, help will only be a toll-free phone call away. For a low annual charge, Soft-Logik Annual Support provides unlimited toll-free support for one user. It's like having your own consulting service on hand! Call 1-800-829-5816 toll-free for Paid Annual Support, 314-256-9595 if you live outside the United States or Canada. If all our representatives are busy, we'll call you back! Fax us your questions, we'll fax you answers --- fax 314-256-7773. An additional 25% discount off the price of new Soft-Logik releases. An additional 25% discount off the price of major updates. Free minor updates (3.0g, 3.0h...) sent automatically. $149 per year for each Soft-Logik application. PAID PER CALL SUPPORT --- For those who have the occasional question. Not everybody needs the benefits of the Annual Support plan, so it may be more cost-effective for you to pay whenever you need help. The fee per call is $15. If we solve your problem in less than 15 minutes, you can ask additional questions up to the 15 minute limit. If your problem takes longer than 15 minutes to solve, or if it requires follow-up calls, you'll still only be charged a single flat fee. Call 1-800-829-5816 toll-free for Paid Per Call Support, 314-256-9595 if you live outside the United States or Canada. $15 per problem resolution; 15 minute maximum for multiple questions. VISA, MasterCard, Discover or American Express card required. BEFORE YOU CALL FOR HELP 1. Know your program version and registration number. 2. Be prepared to discuss your computer system and program setup. We will not provide support to those who do not have their registration number. QUESTIONS & ANSWERS Q. I received a defective disk. How do I get it replaced? A. Call sales at 1-800-829-8608 (314-256-9595) to request a free replacement. Q. I just have a quick question. Can I call for free help? A. No. Soft-Logik does not provide free telephone support. Most of our customers have chosen to use one of the online networks for convenient and affordable support. We highly recommend getting a modem and using our BBS, GEnie, CompuServe or the Internet. The Soft-Logik BBS and GEnie have the largest numbers of PageStream users. Q. I don't have a modem. What's the next best way to get free support? A. You should either mail or fax your questions to us. A written reply will be mailed to you as soon as possible. Q. I think I found a bug. Should I call to report it? A. No. The best way to report a problem with a Soft-Logik program is to mail or email us a detailed description of the problem. Q. Can I get technical support for any Soft-Logik product? A. Technical support is available for current Soft-Logik products. Support is not available for discontinued products or older versions of some programs. At this time, technical support is available for: PageStream 2.2-3.1; TypeSmith 2.0-2.5; Wordworth 3.1; Datastore 1.0; and Digita Organizer 1.0. THE SMALL PRINT Soft-Logik Publishing will provide support as detailed here. Access to technical support services is restricted to registered users of Soft-Logik products. Your access to Soft-Logik technical support will be terminated if you sell your program. The Annual Support plan cannot be transferred to another user. If the Annual Support plan is terminated during the term of your service, your sole remedy will be a refund for the prorated portion of the annual fee for the remaining period. You are entitled to the resolution of one incident for the Per Call plan. Soft-Logik reserves the sole exclusive right to define the scope and resolution of the incident. In no event shall support for an incident exceed four weeks after the initial call. Soft-Logik makes no warranty or conditions of any kind, express, implied, or statutory, related to or arising in any way from technical support. In no event, shall Soft-Logik's liability exceed the amount received from you for the services you ordered. All prices subject to change without notice at Soft-Logik's discretion. Q. What happened to free telephone support? A. Soft-Logik has discontinued free telephone support due to the current state of the Amiga market. Free technical support is still available via online services such as GEnie, CompuServe, Portal and the Internet, as well as via mail. Q. I can't justify buying the Annual Support Plan, and I can't afford $25 for each tech call. A. We have lowered the price of the toll-free Per Call option from $25 to $15 to help make paid technical support more affordable. Q. What is the single best way to get technical support now? A. There is no better way to get fast and affordable help than with a modem. GEnie and the Soft-Logik BBS are home to the largest groups of users of PageStream and other Soft-Logik programs. Q. I hadn't used the 90 days of free phone support I received with my program. Has it just evaporated? A. We regret that we have had to discontinue free phone support, but we hope to offer free support again when the Macintosh version of PageStream is available. Our records detail who did and did not use their free phone support for PageStream3 Amiga, so we will make the appropriate arrangements then. Q. Does this mean that Soft-Logik is going to follow other Amiga companies out of business? A. Definitely not. We wouldn't be investing so much money into Macintosh and Windows development if we were going to go out of business. But we have employees to pay and bills to meet, and Amiga sales are too low at this time to continue the luxury of free phone support. Q. So does this mean Amiga development will come to an end? A. Definitely not. PageStream for Macintosh, Windows and Amiga are all the same program. Aside from re-compiling the program and making some small platform specific changes, the only files that have to be rewritten are the libraries in your SoftLogik/Libs directory. The Amiga versions of the libraries have already been written---only the DTP code will see major changes from now on. So it would be silly for us to abandon the Amiga now when it is so easy for us to keep the Amiga version up to date. Q. You keep mentioning the Mac and Windows versions are coming. So tell us when. A. Forgive us for being a bit tight-lipped on this, but our release date prediction abilities are somewhat lacking. ;-) Having been burned a couple of times, we're reluctant to do it again. That being said, we believe the Macintosh version will be released in the fourth quarter of this year. The Windows version will not be done until after the Macintosh version, so the first half of 1996 is as specific as we want to get now. These dates are subject to change, but we're working as hard as we can. Q. Are you going to offer a discounted price for us Amiga and Atari users? A. Yes. You will be able to upgrade to PageStream for Macintosh or Windows from either the Amiga or Atari versions. The price will depend on which version of PageStream you own. PageStream3 Amiga owners will get the best price. PageStream2 (Amiga or Atari) owners will pay a slightly higher price, while PageStream1 owners will pay a bit more. We'll even have a discounted price for people who own other Soft-Logik programs but not PageStream, including Publishing Partner! We haven't decided on the suggested retail price for the Macintosh and Windows versions yet, so we can't tell you the upgrade prices now. Q. I have a Macintosh emulator for my Atari or Amiga. Will PageStream Mac run on it? A. PageStream for Macintosh will require at least System 7, so it won't run on the Atari Mac emulator. We don't know at this time if it will work on the Amiga Mac emulators, but using the native Amiga version would be better anyway, so it's a non-issue. Q. Back to the Amiga now. When are we going to see the final version of PageStream3? A. We're getting tired of updates too. 3.0h will be the next release and will see the completion of the remaining text attribute features such as hyphenation. If we have time, we'll work on text speed some more. The following release will concentrate on the remaining object features such as the Pen and Reshape tools. The version after that will be called 3.1 and will wrap up the remaining miscellaneous features and bug fixes. Version 3.1 will be mailed free of charge to all PageStream3 owners. There will be some features missing from it that are in the manual, such as anchored objects, but it will essentially be the program you've been waiting for. Q. So we get 3.1 and then what? Is that it? A. Of course not. There will probably be a 3.1a. (There's always a dot something.) Other feature upgrades will follow, but we don't need to get that far ahead of ourselves now. Q. When Art Expression disappeared, you said something about replacing it with a PageStream3 module. What's up with that? A. It will be released later this year. The primary features that Art Expression had that PageStream3 lacks are text effects such as text on a curve. We plan to release a module that will add these features to PageStream. If you already own Art Expression, you will receive a discount on the price of this module. Q. I recently bought Wordworth. When is the Wordworth document loader module for PageStream3 going to be released? A. It will be released about the same time as PageStream3.0h, which will also have a much improved Wordworth text import/export filter. Q. Escom just bought the rights to Commodore's technology and plans to start making new Amiga computers soon. What does Soft-Logik think of this? A. Like you, we're very happy that the Amiga has found a new home, and are looking forward to more exciting Amiga development in the years ahead. We plan to continue improving PageStream and our other Amiga programs. ______________________________________ > Commodore Update! STR NewsFile! - Escom to Buy Commodore? """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""" . . By Dan Stets, The Philadelphia Inquirer Knight-Ridder/Tribune Business News NEW YORK--Apr. 21--Escom AG, of Germany, picked up the assets of Commodore International Ltd. for the bargain-basement price of $6.6 million at an auction here Thursday. About a half-dozen companies interested in Commodore's assets appeared at the auction, but only Escom and Dell Computer Co. submitted bids backed up by the required $1 million security deposit. Dell's bid was disqualified because the company attached some unspecified conditions. Escom president Manfred Schmitt said his company would resume manufacturing Amiga and other popular Commodore products and start making Apple- and IBM-compatible computers with the Commodore name for the European market. Schmitt said he would attempt to manufacture all of the traditional Commodore products, even the advanced Amiga 4000, in China. He said he planned to approach Motorola Co. about microprocessors for a new Commodore PowerPC, which would be similar to the PowerMac manufactured by Apple Computer Co. This new PowerPC would likely be built in Europe. Escom has no plans to resume any of Commodore's American manufacturing operations. Commodore had its North American headquarters in West Chester, Pa. However, before Escom can launch its new strategy, the purchase must be approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in New York and the Supreme Court of the Bahamas, where bankrupt Commodore was incorporated. That approval is not yet certain since Commodore's creditors have not yet agreed to the sale price, and both IBM and the trustee for Commodore's assets in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the Philippines are objecting to the sale. Judge James L. Garrity Jr. has scheduled a hearing in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for Friday to consider the proposed sale to Escom as well as the objections. Commodore's creditors are owed more than $100 million. Previous estimates of Commodore's auction value were as high as $20 million, so the creditors are likely to have reservations about the Escom sale price. The auction, which was supposed to be the end of Commodore's bankruptcy saga, was a bizarre affair. A standing-room-only crowd of 65 people filled a conference room at the Midtown headquarters of Fullbright & Jaworski, the American law firm representing Commodore's Bahamian liquidators. Almost half the group were lawyers. There were representatives of the creditors' committee and of two creditors, Prudential Insurance and Microsoft Co. Also on hand were representatives of a Chinese electronic-game company, New Star, as well as another Chinese company, Tietsin Trust & Investment Co., which is the parent firm of yet another game company. If its proposal is approved, Escom plans a joint venture with Tietsin to manufacture the traditional Commodore products at a factory near Beijing. Also represented were several small American technology companies, including Computer Connection,of Stockton, Calif., which submitted a bid which was disqualified because the firm failed to include the required $1 million deposit. One attorney joked that never had he seen so many people show up for an auction prepared to pay so little. Schmitt said he was not surprised that Escom apparently had been able to acquire Commodore for such a low price. If the other companies had been willing to pay more, they would have signed a contract with the liquidators months ago. Another likely bidder, Creative Equipment International, of Miami, apparently teamed up with Dell in its unsuccessful bid. The managers of Commodore's United Kingdom team, who have been trying to buy Commodore's assets for months, withdrew before the bidding began. Dell was represented at the auctions by Dalton Kaye, the company's vice president and treasurer, who said after the auction that his company had not yet given up its attempt to buy Commodore. Kaye complained that Dell had become aware of the auction only two weeks ago and had nt yet had time to evaluate either the bid documents or Commodore's assets. Dell, of Austin, Texas, makes personal computers for businesses and individuals. In its latest fiscal year, which ended in January, sales rose 21 percent to $3.5 billion, and the company had a profit of $149 million compared with a loss of $36 million the year before. Neither the amount of the Dell bid nor of the Computer Connection bid was made public. Kaye declined to specify what conditions Dell had attached to its bid. If Dell is really serious about pursuing Commodore, a shoot-out with Escom could prove interesting. Dell had sales last year of $3.4 billion. Escom, which is the second largest computer company in Germany, had sales of about $1.1 billion. Escom will end up paying the Bahamian liquidators no more than $5 million for Commodore's assets. The company already has paid the German bankruptcy trustee of Commodore's German subsidiary 2.2 million German marks, the equivalent of about $1.6 million for the right to use the Commodore logo in Germany. -/- Escom AG Buys Commodore Assets -/- At a New York auction, Germany's Escom AG has bought the assets of the fallen Commodore International Ltd. for $6.6 million, described by The Philadelphia Inquirer as a "bargain-basement price." Inquirer reporter Dan Stets says some half-dozen companies interested in Commodore's assets appeared at the auction, "but only Escom and Dell Computer Co. submitted bids backed up by the required $1 million security deposit." Stets says Dell's bid was disqualified "because the company attached some unspecified conditions." After the auction, Escom President Manfred Schmitt told the paper his company will resume manufacturing Amiga and other Commodore products and start making Apple- and IBM-compatible computers with the Commodore name for the European market. He said the firm will attempt to manufacture all of the traditional Commodore products, even the advanced Amiga 4000, in China, adding, he plans to approach Motorola Inc. about microprocessors for a new Commodore PowerPC, to be similar to Apple's PowerMac but probably built in Europe. In fact, the Germany company says it has no plans to resume any of Commodore's American manufacturing operations. (Commodore had its North American headquarters in West Chester, Pa.) "However," writes Stet, "before Escom can launch its new strategy, the purchase must be approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in New York and the Supreme Court of the Bahamas, where bankrupt Commodore was incorporated. That approval is not yet certain since Commodore's creditors have not yet agreed to the sale price, and both IBM and the trustee for Commodore's assets in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the Philippines are objecting to the sale." -/- New Comdex Show Added -/- Softbank Comdex says it has scheduled new computer industry trade shows for Britain and Quebec. The Needham, Massachusetts-based company notes that the first annual Comdex/UK event will be held on April 23 to 26, 1996 at the Earls Court Exhibition Centre in London. Comdex/Quebec will run from Oct. 8 to 10, 1996 at the Place Bonaventure in Montreal. Softbank Comdex already currently produces two Comdex events in Canada: Comdex/Canada, which will be held in Toronto this year on July 12 to 14, and Comdex/PacRim which will convene next year in Vancouver on Jan. 16 to 18. The 1996 London event will mark the entrance of Softbank Comdex into Britain and Europe. "The U.K. market is perceived by the industry to be important in its own right, and also useful as a key entry point into Europe," says Peter Shaw, Softbank Comdex's marketing vice president. Softbank Comdex produces 19 information technology events in the U.S., Brazil, Canada, Mexico, Singapore and Britain. -/- Online Hoax Fools 'Dateline NBC'-/- Television's "Dateline NBC" fell for an online hoax in reporting Friday night that Timothy McVeigh, a suspect in the Oklahoma City truck bombing, had described himself as a "Mad Bomber" in a file on a commercial computer network. The show broadcast a report that a listing for "a Timothy McVeigh" on America Online contained the quote, "Let us take back the government ... or die trying. Boom." America Online released a statement yesterday saying the membership entry was created on Friday, after the suspect already had been in custody for two days. AOL spokeswoman Pam McGraw told the Reuter News Service the account was later cancelled by the person who had created it, adding AOL members are allowed to create their own screen names, and that there is no verification process. "It is a violation of terms of service if a member is impersonating another person," she said. McGraw declined to say what action, if any, will be taken against the member who created the hoax profile. She declined to identify the person, but said AOL will cooperate if approached by the authorities with a court order. Meanwhile, says Reuters, "On Saturday the AOL membership directory listed another Timothy McVeigh, from 'Gullible, U.S.A..' The personal quote in that profile? 'Don't believe everything you hear on NBC.'" -/- Cops Get 135 Guns for Computers -/- In San Francisco, about 135 weapons were turned over to authorities yesterday in the police department's offer to swap computers for guns. As reported earlier, the effort to hand out used computers to anyone turning in a working handgun, no questions asked, follows police programs that sought turned-in handguns for cash, guns for groceries and guns for concert tickets. Police Capt. Tim Hettrich told the Reuter News Service, "The goal was to get weapons off the street," adding that the plan would also reduce the potential for accidents at home. The PCs were handed out to people who turned in a working handgun, shotgun or rifle at an event in San Francisco's Bayview District, where there have been many drive-by shootings. Hettrich says people turning in guns also will get three free computer training classes. The exchange was developed by Hettrich, community leaders and the Computer Recycling Centre, a local group that recycles computers discarded by businesses. The latter donated the IBM-compatible computers with monitors and keyboards. Computer training will be donated by the Black Chamber of Commerce. -/- Kentucky Bulletin Board Raided -/- Microsoft Corp. and Novell Inc. report that U.S. Marshals in Lexington, Kentucky, raided one of the world's largest pirate bulletin boards (BBSes), Assassin's Guild, for distribution of copyright protected software. According to the software publishers, Assassin's Guild is the worldwide headquarters for two large pirate groups, Pirates With an Attitude (PWA) and Razor 1911. The firms note that the board had been offering access to hundreds of pirated software programs to users throughout the U.S. and around the world. During the raid, U.S. Marshals seized over 13 computers, 11 modems, a satellite dish, 9GB of online data and over 40GB of offline data storage dating back to 1992, say the software makers. Marshals also seized the principal operator's business records, tax returns and asset documents. "Bulletin board piracy is one of the fastest growing forms of software theft worldwide," says Bob Kruger, director of enforcement for the Business Software Alliance. "We're pleased with the increased effort by law enforcement agencies to help us eradicate this problem both in North America and around the globe." Both Microsoft and Novell are members of the BSA, an industry alliance formed to promote the growth of the software industry through public policy, education and enforcement initiatives. -/- A Home Page in Every Home? -/- Is there an Internet "home page" in your future? At this past week's Internet World show, it was bandied about that an estimated 5 million World Wide Web users now have created introductory home pages, and that the number doubles every 57 days, according to Computergram International. This prompted a PC Week staffer to figure that at that rate, there will be one Web site for every person in the world in four years. ______________________________________________ JAGUAR SECTION ============== - Hover Strike Review! - Pinball Fantasies! - E3 Video Offer! More Catnips! - White Men Can't Jump! - And much more! > From the Editor's Controller - Playin' it like it is! """""""""""""""""""""""""""" I'm hoping to get some time to really get involved with a number of Jaguar games this weekend. Time just doesn't seem to be something of an abundance. I've been trying to finish up Cannon Fodder in order to get a review finished - somehow, I haven't been able to get past Level 5!! We also have Pinball Fantasies on the way, so I hope to have a chance to test out my "crazy flipper fingers"!!! I just love pinball games, having grown up with pinball machines as a favorite form of entertainment - long before video games became popular! We're going to be going through some re-evaluations here in the Jaguar section in the next few weeks. As interest grows, and wanes, with the Jaguar - so does the support staff. Some things that we've wanted to do from the beginning have fallen short of our goals. However, there's some renewed interest from the online community to take part in what we're trying to accomplish here at STReport, and our Jaguar coverage. So, we hope things progress smoothly and quickly. You shouldn't see any disruption during this process. Well, there's plenty of news, information, and opinions for this week's issue - let's get to it! Until next time... _________________________________ > Jaguar Catalog STR InfoFile - What's currently available, what's """"""""""""""""""""""""""" coming out. Current Available Titles ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ CAT # TITLE MSRP DEVELOPER/PUBLISHER J9000 Cybermorph $59.99 Atari Corp. J9006 Evolution:Dino Dudes $49.99 Atari Corp. J9005 Raiden $49.99 FABTEK, Inc/Atari Corp. J9001 Trevor McFur/ Crescent Galaxy $49.99 Atari Corp. J9010 Tempest 2000 $59.95 Llamasoft/Atari Corp. J9028 Wolfenstein 3D $69.95 id/Atari Corp. JA100 Brutal Sports FtBall $69.95 Telegames J9008 Alien vs. Predator $69.99 Rebellion/Atari Corp. J9029 Doom $69.99 id/Atari Corp. J9036 Dragon: Bruce Lee $59.99 Atari Corp. J9003 Club Drive $59.99 Atari Corp. J9007 Checkered Flag $69.99 Atari Corp. J9012 Kasumi Ninja $69.99 Atari Corp. J9042 Zool 2 $59.99 Atari Corp J9020 Bubsy $49.99 Atari Corp J9026 Iron Soldier $59.99 Atari Corp J9060 Val D'Isere Skiing $59.99 Atari Corp. Cannon Fodder $69.99 Virgin Syndicate $69.99 Ocean Troy Aikman Ftball $69.99 Williams Theme Park $69.99 Ocean Sensible Soccer Telegames Double Dragon V $59.99 Williams J9009E Hover Strike $59.99 Atari Corp. Available Soon ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ CAT # TITLE MSRP DEVELOPER/PUBLISHER Pinball Fantasies $ 59.95 Computer West Jaguar CD-ROM $149.99 Atari Hardware and Peripherals ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ CAT # TITLE MSRP MANUFACTURER J8001 Jaguar (complete) $189.99 Atari Corp. J8001 Jaguar (no cart) $159.99 Atari Corp. J8904 Composite Cable $19.95 J8901 Controller/Joypad $24.95 Atari Corp. J8905 S-Video Cable $19.95 CatBox $69.95 ICD _______________________________________________ > Jaguar Hover Strike STR Review - "Hover Strike" """""""""""""""""""""""""""""" -= Available Now =- By Craig Harris Published by: Atari Corp. Price: $59.99 Federation colonists are in trouble. A group known as the Terrakin Pirates have seized all control of the planet they inhabit, and the colonists are being killed to provide organic compounds for God-knows-what. We've *got* to get them out of there! There's a catch: The planet is well protected. Our armada doesn't stand a chance against their planet defenses. What we need to do is sneak through enemy lines and destroy these defenses bit-by-bit. And this is where you come in. You will pilot the effort's final hope, a top secret, all-terrain, heavily armored, heavily weaponed military vehicle known as a Hovertank. Your mission: to knock out strategically placed targets that prevent any kind of full-assault planet-wide strike. It's not going to be easy. The Terrakin Pirates will do anything and everything necessary to protect these "targets," which include hydraulic power plants, missile silos, underground bunkers, and radar dishes to name a few. Let's get moving, soldier. The entire effort is now up to you. Don't choke. \\\\ Hover Strike can be thought of as a low-riding Cybermorph, with all the quirks ironed out. You must pilot your Hovertank through 30 missions, 6 missions per level, all with the basic idea: Destroy X (insert target here). Each of the 6 missions takes place on different terrain: Desert, Urban, Ice, Water, Volcanic, and the painfully annoying Unknown (Night) mission. Desert missions are generally flat with the occasional mountain thrown in; Urban missions are chock full o' buildings and streets to pilot through. Water missions make you drive your craft over wavy seas; Volcanic missions, VERY mountainous. Night missions? Well, aside from your plasma bursts lighting the way, visibility is nil; you won't know *what* the heck you're piloting over. You select your mission at the start of a new game, or at the end of a successful mission. During a mission, if you feel you're not quite ready for what's ahead, you can abort and jump back to the mission select screen. Controlling the craft takes a little to get used to. The 'A' button is the accelerate button. Pushing it will give you a little boost forward. The longer you hold it, the faster you go. However, since the craft is a hovering vehicle, there's no friction to slow you down. Once you let go of the accelerate button, the inertia will push you in that direction, no matter what direction you spin yourself to face. Slowing and stopping the vehicle is accomplished by pressing and holding 'C', respectfully. Pushing left and right on the directional pad will spin you in that direction. Up and Down controls the vertical movement of your gun turrets, which essentially move your gun sight up and down. Once you get used to the controls, you'll find the best way of steering the craft is by boosting and braking, boosting and braking, turning the vehicle during the stops. Remember, you're piloting a hovercraft. If you don't have enough inertia to get over hills, you'll start moving in the direction of the slope. Give hard boosts of power to get over them. Button 'B' fires your main gun: a plasma ball. The top row of the keypad (as well as the Option button) give access to your secondary weapons: standard and guided missiles, mortars (movement-triggered grenades), and, for those annoying Night missions, flares. The hovertank's "dashboard" displays how much shields and energy it has, the active secondary weapon, the enemy target selected, and the radar (which doubles as a compass). You can also push a button on the keypad you jump out of the cockpit and view a smaller, external shot of the tank. (I find this external view completely useless; even though you can adjust the camera view closer, further, and totally around your vehicle, the angle is too low to be of any help. If you zoom back, the distant scenery fades out of sight. Zooming in will *really* reduce your field of view.) Even though you should be watching where you drive, you really shouldn't worry about getting hurt by riding around like a maniac. Like the acid pools in AVP, any damage from hard jumps and bumps are minimal. Actually, due to you're half-assed deployment into enemy grounds, you take damage at the beginning of every mission. (I'm sure the designer(s) took flak from testers/reviewers in regards to this "feature," but I think it adds realism to a non-existent war vehicle). Your main focus of shield depletion should be directed toward enemy fire. They'll come at you from all sides throwing laser bolts, plasma shots, missiles...pretty much any projectile in lethal form. These enemies include different kinds of "Floaters," each with their own attacking strategy. Some Floaters offer paydirt when destroyed (shields, weapons, energy), while others just explode when shot. Turrets and tanks are also out for blood. Magnetic mines will seek and destroy your craft in some missions, too. Once you're shields and/or energy reserves have been depleted, you get an outside view of your craft biting the dust. If you have any crafts in reserve (you start out with 3), you must start the current mission over again. Go through all your lives, and you're treated to a spectacular cinema of your air-assault fleet getting annihilated. Finish the mission intact, and view your transport ship lifting you off to another mission. \\\\ Graphically, the game boasts 100% texture-mapped 3D surfaces and enemies. Even the fuel pods are solid objects. But this graphic detail does come at a cost: the game has a slightly low frame-rate. You'll get used to the choppiness of the game, but the screen update will annoy you when you're stuck between a rock and an enemy, and you can't figure out where he is. The textures are beautiful, though. Rocky surfaces look as they should, water waves up-and-down, and the metallic, futuristic cities are dead-on. There are even snow-peaked mountains lining the horizon in the Ice missions. During Night Missions, firing your plasma gun will light up cavers and enemies as it travels out of view. And, as a retaliation to all those Cybermorph complainers, scenery fades into the foreground. Nice touch. Sound is another story. While music in some levels fit the atmosphere, others are just downright annoying. The music and sounds have a high -pitched whine to them that might give some people headaches. All sound f/x are of standard, generic flair. The only outstanding part about the sound is the sexy female computer voice. And they didn't attempt to try and graphically represent her, either (read: Skylar). Most of the landscapes are large and thought out well. And they have limits, too; none of this Cybermorph "'round the world in 4 seconds" crud. I just wish the boundaries were higher and less tempting to climb. \\\\ At the start of a new game, you can select one of three difficulty levels: Easy, Medium, and Hard. The higher the selection, the higher amount of enemies per level. You can also decide to save your game during the mission select screen. Saving your game will store your score, missions completed, and hovertanks left in reserve. Unfortunately, the cartridge only has one saved game slot...and the program doesn't warn you when you save over it. The programmers also threw in a two-player cooperative mode. If you have two Jaguar pads plugged in, Player Two can simply jump in and control the weaponry whenever he/she wants. Button B fires the turret, Button A cycles through the secondary weapons, and Button C launches it. But this two-player mode doesn't lock out Player One's ability to control weapons. The one benefit to the Two Player Coop mode is that Player Two can move the turret all over the view screen, not just up and down. \\\\\ With the release of Hover Strike, Atari seems to be doing something right. After a string of ported softs that don't even make the system break a sweat, it's great to see that *some* programmers are taking the initiative to create games that take advantage of the hardware. While Hover Strike isn't the perfect 3D "go anywhere game," it's a step in the right direction. Graphics: 8.0 Sound FX/Music: 6.5 Control: 8.0 Manual: 9.5 Entertainment: 7.5 Reviewer's Overall: 8.0 Gameplay tips: 1) READ THE MANUAL. Even though you can eventually figure out the controls, they are explained well in the book. 2) LEAVE THE NIGHT MISSIONS ALONE. Don't touch 'em until you have to. They look cool, but are DEADLY. Save your lives and SAVE YOUR GAME before going to these annoying levels. 3) LEARN TO SIDESTEP. Especially in the Urban areas, you can take out enemies hiding in cubby's by sliding left and right. Plus the fact that it's harder for missiles to hit you when you're moving parallel to the enemy. 4) TAKE TANKS HEAD-ON. You can shoot down their missiles before they even get out of the tube. 5) WATCH YOUR RADAR. Sometimes you won't know what's hitting you. Watch your radar. It even shows projectiles...follow those moving blips to their source and lock-on. 6) ALWAYS LOCK-ON TO A TARGET. Use it as a guide, red shows up better than green on the radar. 7) HOLD THE C BUTTON AT THE START OF EVERY MISSION. Whenever you're dropped into a mission, you'll be in motion due to the inertia. Stop and get a good look at the surroundings before venturing forward. > Jaguar Online STR InfoFile Online Users Growl & Purr! """""""""""""""""""""""""" CATnips... Jaguar tidbits from Don Thomas """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" E3 (Electronics Entertainment Exposition) is fast approaching and exciting things are on their way. "Hover Strike".... It's shipping NOW! In stores by Monday or Tuesday, June 24 or 25. I purchased a copy Friday and played it several hours to offer an early report... "Hover Strike" is what you get when you combine the virtual surrealism of "Cybermorph", the strategic mission-by-mission approach of "Iron Soldier", the high-impact visuals of "Val D'Isere Skiing and Snowboarding", the true-to-life virtual aspects of "Doom", the audio presence of "Tempest 2000" and the 64-bit power of the Atari Jaguar 64-bit game system. Oh, I almost forgot, you have to add the fun factor... you know, the most important ingredient Atari strives for in all games... If you had fun playing "BattleZone", "Robot Tank" and "BallBlazer" in the eight-bit days, well welcome to "Hover Strike" and a major step into the next century. Lately, I've been playing the Jaguar on my SC1224 RGB monitor and with stereo headphones. I cannot imagine playing "Hover Strike" any other way. The enemy approaches with aggressive ambience and attacks from the sides that you hear it coming from. The soundtrack grabs you and enhances the experience. "Hover Strike" is a hovering armored war vehicle of the future. It is equipped with advanced weapons and sufficient force field technology. You pilot the hovercraft over a great many different terrains, find fuel and supplies and encounter relentless enemy crafts. There are three initial skill levels and there is "Save Game" feature as well as a high score screen. The game commences with a story line and ends with a cool animated sequence. Your A button propels the craft in the direction you are facing. The control pad allows you to change the direction you're facing. If you head and one direction, then turn, you will maintain the previous course heading and watch the landscape pass beneath and in front of you until you hit the A button again and begin to push the craft into whatever new direction you are heading. Obstacles in the terrain affect maneuvering and hits taken from enemy fire push you away from the point of impact. The more you play "Hover Strike" the more you appreciate the level of realism that was added to simulate the experience of piloting the craft. Just like Cybermorph, "Hover Strike" allows full access to the virtual world. "Hover Strike" offers many more complexities, however, in visual impact, sound, animation and strategic play. The C button slows and stops the vehicle. The B button is your cannon. There are radar and missile options outlined by the keyboard overlay provided with the game. I only had the opportunity to complete the first series of missions so I know there is a lot more to see and do. I did not uncover any secrets, but knowing those Atari developers, they're there. I do not know how much variety there is to the soundtrack. Everything I heard was fantastic, but there were only a few selections. There may be more I'll hear as I improve and advance to different levels. The sound effects are awesome. I think the craft responds exactly as it should (no Checkered Flag steering debates on this one <g>). It does seem to keep an exact distance from the ground, however. There are a few times you'd expect a slight bounce up and down at one side or on the whole vehicle and there is no bounce, but that can be explained by extremely effective "anti-grav units". The suggested retail on "Hover Strike" is $59.99. It is a one or two player (cooperative play) game and published by Atari Corporation. I know a lot of people like to know what the box description is so here goes... "THE ULTIMATE WAR MACHINE IS HERE! You fear the worst for the missing colonists. Terrakian Pirates have taken over the distant planet, with their deadly machines patrolling every section of the surface. The Federation has chosen you to launch a preemptive strike. Your vehicle is a state-of-the-art armored hovercraft, equipped with rapid fire cannon and powerful missiles. Anti-grav units enable it to float over any terrain. Battle through 30 fully texture-mapped 3D levels, including Night Vision missions. Knock out key targets and make way for the Federation armada. Save the colony before it's too late! HOVER STRIKE is a trademark of Atari Corporation. (c)1995 Atari Corporation. Atari, the Atari logo and Jaguar are trademarks or registered trademarks of Atari Corporation. All rights reserved. This software is authorized by Atari for use with the Jaguar 64-bit Interactive Multimedia System. Made in the U.S. of domestic and imported components. J9009E *~* ------------------------------------------------------ *~* Trivia: The "E" on the Atari Jaguar model numbers on software ("J9009E") stands for "Everywhere". That indicates that the packaging includes multi-lingual materials. *~* ------------------------------------------------------ *~* Jaguar Journal is now available on CompuServe. Here is the contents of the April issue. April 1995 - Jaguar Journal - Cat's Club Publication """""""""" CONTENTS: * Theme Park * Troy Aikman NFL Football Quick Reviews: * Double Dragon V * Sensible Soccer Special: * Kasumi Ninja Move Guide Press Releases, Conference Report Poll: Your 5 Most Wanted Games Jaguar Journal is published by Jeffrey Norwood, a Jag owner and an avid Atari follower since 1983. Atari Explorer Online is expected to release their next issue late on Monday night (April 24). Look for the new issue or recent back issues on GEnie, CompuServe, Delphi, CATscan as well as prominent BBS and WWW pages worldwide. The most recent issue of Silicon Times Report has just been released (April 21). Look for the new issue or recent back issues on CompuServe, Delphi, GEnie, CATscan as well as prominent BBS and WWW pages worldwide. Silicon Times Report includes industry news and a comprehensive section on the Atari Jaguar. *~* ------------------------------------------------------ *~* CATscan UPdate... You may or may not recall that CATscan has had the benefit of a software upgrade. Consequently some of the popular features were temporarily lost until I could make time to rewrite new scripts. Effective immediately, the T-shirt Lottery and Dealer Referral services are back on line. The Lottery allows you to pick four digits and see if you can have them match a random draw. This feature is limited to one time each day; first call only. To play the Lottery, press P from the Welcome Menu as you enter the system. The Dealer Referral feature enables onliners to locate a Jaguar retailer nearest them 24-hours a day. This includes Canada and mail order lists. It is impossible to offer a complete list because so many retailers purchase their products through independent distributors, BUT this offers hundreds and hundreds of suggestions and the list is updated regularly. Dealer lists are viewed through an easy menu selection process to enable users to get a list of the ones in their state. To access the Dealer Referral system, press D from the Welcome Menu or N (for Nearest Dealer) from the Main Menu. Although the structured order system is still under construction, those wishing to order Tempest 2000 Soundtracks, posters, videos, Jaguar software or Lynx software can do so by sending private E-Mail to the SysOp. It appears that CATscan is now working at high speeds. I will know if this is functioning properly as more people provide feedback. So far it seems flawless. Other features planned for CATscan as soon as possible are a glossary of Jaguar terms, on call game descriptions and more. As always, expect the latest online magazines, public access tips and reviews, sample screens and sounds for downloading. Or interact with enthusiasts in the message areas. Joining CATscan is free. The only costs are long distance charges. To access CATscan, dial 209/239-1552 any time day or night. If you get a busy signal, please try back. Users are limited to 20 minutes (most downloads are not timed). Please Note that CATscan is not an official or licensed site of Atari Corporation. Atari is not responsible for its operation or content. *~* ------------------------------------------------------ *~* I know everyone is asking for updates on the CD-ROM. An official document I received last week indicated that the CD will be available in mid-summer along with a healthy selection of CD titles. Yes, we all know everyone wishes it was already released and we do monitor the supportive demand for this product. The change from our first quarter tentative release to mid summer is strictly based on making certain we are prepared for proper release along with ample software. *~* ------------------------------------------------------ *~* This has been a bit longer CATnips than usual and I apologize for its verbosity. I hope everyone had a great Holiday last week. Thanks for supporting the 64-bit Jaguar system. --Don Thomas Atari Corporation ** END OF FILE ** ___________________________________________________ > Pinball Fantasies! STR JagUpdate! - PF in Production! """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" Sb: Pinball Fantasies Fm: Peter Curry 75373,2203 To: All Pinball Fantasies entered manufacturing last Friday. We are looking at a street date of June 9 (Friday). SRP $59.95 If you have questions you can E-Mail me here or call me directly at (805)543-8197 / Fax (805)549-0549. Peter Curry Computer West "White Men Can't Jump" Preview! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Sb: #Preview Fm: Laury Scott [ATARI] 75300,2631 To: All Since it is Friday and the weather is nice I just thought I would give you all a little 'preview of coming attractions'. I walked past one of the offices today and watched 4 people playing White Men Can't Jump using the Jaguar (look for a summer release) 4 player adaptor. That's right - 4 people playing together on one TV - one player controlling each of the players. From the shouting and excitement coming from that office it looks HOT. -Laury Comments regarding last week's game preview video, from CompuServe": Sb: #77404-#Game Previews-Long Post Fm: Darryl Still Atari Europ 75300,2632 To: Larry Tipton 74127,601 (X) Thanks for posting this. As the person who put the video together I'd like to post back a few comments/explanations and clear up a couple of points. Firstly the sound on Primal Rage. this was recorded externally through an arcade cabinet. there is no sound in the Jag version yet. Blue Lightning was recorded from the developers kit. using a version of the game which was far from complete. Expect major improvements. Highlander was also a very early version. We did receive a later, better version for ECTS, bit too late for the video shoot. The Demolition man on the tape was a direct port of the 3D0 version. The finished Jag game will not have such large borders. Varuna's Forces. We also received a more advanced show version after the shoot I expect big things from this game as it looks a lot of strategic fun, with a nice arcade balance. With respect to the pauses, this was due to video hardware problems and did not occur when the CD was run unconnected to the editing suite we used. They were glitches that will not occur when you play the game! F1 - An early version. T-mapping to be added for the CD. Rayman - We used existing Beta, but there is a much later version which looks just great. Ultra Vortex. The date on the tape was conservative and is likely to be wrong. I hope you will see UV a lot earlier than September. It has not slipped again. White Men Can't Jump. Again quite early, but shows the style well and the "street speech" already a lot of fun to play muthas....whoops the influence is rubbing off 8-) Super Kart. Extremely early footage FFL. the Fight for Life shown was to illustrate how well the texture mapping worked. There was 2 main problems. a) the version shown only had a selection of the 40 moves per character implemented. b) the sucker playing could only use a couple of that selection whilst handling the pad! I am not good at beat 'em ups and apologise. Finally to clarify, the tape was not produced as a dealer tape, it was produced as a looped demonstration for the Atari stand at ECTS. Regards Darryl Sb: #77444-Game Previews-Long Post Fm: SYSOP*Jeff Kovach 74777,3071 To: Darryl Still Atari Europ 75300,2632 Darryl, > Ultra Vortex. The date on the tape was conservative and is likely to > be wrong I hope you will see UV a lot earlier than September. It has > not slipped again The person who wrote the original message on the net has acknowledged that he made an error, and the date on the tape for this game was May. Just thought I'd clarify that for our members and your peace of mind :). Jeff User Reaction to the latest JagCD delay, from CompuServe: Sb: #77566-Jag CD due in August Fm: Gil Gulick 76347,110 To: Dana P. Jacobson 71051,3327 (X) Oh, well. Looks like I won't be buying a JagCD after all. August is just too close Saturnday September 2nd. I'm sorry, but I am beginning to believe that Atari has been INTENTIONALLY deceiving us. I don't see how they could possibly be as far off on the release dates as they have been recently. I have recommended the Jaguar to friends in the past (after all the CD is only going to be $150 and it will be available very soon), but I can no longer do so. I will have to recommend that they wait until the next-generation systems are available. I used to honestly think the Jaguar had a serious chance of being moderately successful. I now seriously doubt it. Remember, "50 titles by Christmas" then "50 Titles by Summer". There is ABSOLUTELY NO EXCUSE FOR THIS, ATARI! Nearly all Jag titles have been six months behind schedule! If this were a few titles, I could understand it. Sorry guys, but I am just VERY angry right now. I think we deserve an answer from Atari. I think Atari has always heavily relied on word of mouth advertising. Well, right now, that is what they should fear most. Gil =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= //// Subspace Publishers Announce Dual E3 Videotape Projects =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= Subspace Publishers are pleased to announce two new NTSC videotape projects - "AEO at E3 '95" and "E3 1995: NextGen Debuts" - to bring to you the best video coverage of the video gaming industry's showings at May's Electronic Entertainment Exposition (E3) in Los Angeles. Last summer, hundreds of orders were filled for our "AEO at SCES" video featuring exclusive interviews with Atari notables, and direct video and audio feeds from over 20 Jaguar games. Customers were uniformly pleased at what a direct-from-the-floor videotape brought them, and Subspace Publishers hope to have lightning strike once again, this time not only for Jaguar fans, but for owners of/those interested in offerings for Nintendo, Sega, Sony and 3DO consoles also! Christian Svensson and Jim Marsteller both have their bookings set to attend, and will provide the on-floor talent, shooting on S-VHS. Mark Santora (Subspace Publishers' own DGA applicant) will professionally edit the videos on S-VHS or 3/4 inch tape, and all VHS videotapes will be commercially duplicated. Turnaround time will be kept to a minimum. The E3 show will take place May 11-13th, and after editing and duplication, Subspace Publishers hope to begin shipping orders by May 29th. //// AEO at E3 '95 The AEO video will focus on interviews with personalities and exposure for games for the Atari Jaguar 64-bit Interactive Multimedia System. Every effort will be made to obtain direct audio/video feeds from floor Jaguar machines of as many games as possible. AEO has always been regarded as the best source of information on the Atari Jaguar, both online and off, and we hope to maintain that standing with this planned two-hour video. //// E3 1995: NextGen Debuts But there's more going on at this expo. Nintendo, Sega and Sony are all expected to debut their next generation video game consoles here, and 3DO may have a few surprises as well. This two-hour video will focus on the titles shown on these platforms, as well as a more general look at E3 itself. There will be very little crossover between the two videos, perhaps five minutes worth on each. Here are the videotape ordering details. If you have any questions, please write: --Travis Guy Subspace Publishers <aeo.mag@genie.geis.com> <aeo_mag@delphi.com> <70007.3615@compuserve.com> //// Pricing Either video can be ordered at a special pre-show price of $15.00 US, plus shipping. All videotape orders postmarked on or after May 11, 1995 will be for the regular price of $20.00 US, plus shipping. Only personal checks drawn on U.S. banks in U.S. currency; cashiers checks drawn from U.S. or large international banks in U.S. currency; or money orders payable in U.S. currency (Preferred!), will be accepted. Make all instruments of payment payable to Travis Guy, and send them to: Subspace Publishers Route 2, Box 53 Altha, Florida 32421 USA Orders paid via personal checks will incur a slight delay as the check must clear your bank first. If you provide a valid Internet mailable address, Subspace Publishers will be able to confirm receipt of your order, and shipment of your tape. All prices quoted are in U.S. dollars. We cannot be responsible for lost or misdirected mail. For quantity orders (five tapes and over), contact Subspace Publishers via EMail or post. This offer expires June 30, 1995. After that date, orders for either videotape will be filled at a higher rate. PLEASE DO NOT SEND CASH! //// Shipping Information Shipping and handling for up to two tapes will be $3.00 (Priority Mail) if you live in the U.S.; $4.75 for Canadian and Mexican orders; $12.00 for European orders; and $16.00 for orders to Australia. North American orders for one copy each of BOTH videos will receive free shipping. The postal authorities promise prompt delivery (U.S. orders will be sent via Priority Mail), but all we can guarantee is that the tapes will be put in the mail promptly. All foreign orders must go through Customs. Here is our un-snazzy order form to help you on your way: ------------------>8--------- clip --------->8------------------ Name: ________________________ Phone:___________________ Mailing ________________________ Internet address address: ________________________ ________________________ (For Confirmation) #C# # # # # # # # # # # # # City:_________________ # # Mail this order form to: State/Province:_________________ # Subspace Publishers # Route 2, Box 53 Postal Code:_________________ # Altha, Florida 32421 # USA Country:_________________ # # # # # # # # # # # # # # # Please send me ____ copy(ies) of the "AEO at E3 '95" video at $15.00 each...... $ ___.__ (AFTER May 10, 1995... $20.00 each) Please send me ____ copy(ies) of the "NextGen Debuts" video at $15.00 each..... $ ___.__ (AFTER May 10, 1995... $20.00 each) US Shipping & Handling: $3.00 each 2 videos Canadian & Mexican Shipping & Handling: $4.75 each 2 videos (North American orders for one each of BOTH videos): FREE SHIPPING European Shipping & Handling: $12.00 each 2 videos Australian Shipping & Handling: $16.00 each 2 videos. $ __.__ Florida residents add 6.00% sales tax..... $ __.__ Total..... $ ___.__ Make all instruments payable to: Travis Guy PLEASE DO NOT SEND CASH Important Notices: Subspace Publishers wants to provide the best possible coverage of all events at E3 1995. In case of accident, illness, or an Act of God or of Fate that prevents the completion of the videos, all orders will be returned. ___________________________________________________ > ONLINE WEEKLY STReport OnLine The wires are a hummin'! """"""""""""""""""""""""""""" PEOPLE... ARE TALKING ===================== On CompuServe ------------- compiled by Joe Mirando CIS ID: 73637,2262 Hidi ho friends and neighbors. Another week has come and gone with its own special combination of fun, info, news and all the other things that make our lives interesting. Early this week a good friend of mine sent me a fax labeled "URGENT". Now, I don't remember ever having gotten a fax from this friend before, so I quickly grabbed the flimsy paper as soon as the fax had been fully received. "VIRUS ALERT! VIRUS ALERT" was what struck my eye first. It seems that someone reported a new virus that could be transferred not by programs as normal viruses are, but by e-mail. Simply reading a message that was titled GOOD TIMES could wipe out your hard drive. And if that wasn't bad enough, it would also make sure that copies of itself also got sent out to anyone in your online address book. I chuckled a bit because I had heard the same rumor almost a year ago. That one turned out to be either a hoax or a false alarm, just as this one will. Current computer wisdom holds that a virus must be transmitted via a program because instructions need to be carried out, memory addressed, and peripherals accessed. Simply reading a text file cannot transmit a virus. The process simply lacks the elements necessary for a virus to 'do its stuff'. Well that, as I said, is the _current_ wisdom. Who knows what the future will bring. It may well be possible to transfer a virus in this way... in the future. Back in my early days of computer usage, I was told by my professor that there was no way to change the portions of the operating system that were in ROM in our Apple ][+'s. I've never been one to take statements like that at face value, so I thought about it for a while. Let's see... first, we should copy the ROM portions of code into RAM. Tricky, but do-able. Now all I had to do was substitute some of my codes for the originals and tell the rest of the operating system to look at the RAM copy instead of the ROM copy. Well, that wasn't so hard after all. The problem was that one of my codes caused the machine to 'tick' the built-in speaker repeatedly so that it sounded like a canary with the hiccups. After a long night of trying to nail down the problem, I decided to hang it up until the following day. I turned off the light to the computer lab and started off for my dorm room. On the way out of the building I met up with my professor and exchanged greetings. I was about half way to my dorm when I realized that I had not re-booted the computer... my 'version' was still running. If the professor tried to print anything out, the feathered bug, as I later named it, would fill the computer lab with its monotonous song. I raced back to the lab and entered just as the professor hit the enter key and tried to print out a classroom notice. Damn! Too late. He heard me panting from my race against time and turned. Then he heard the chirp and, without skipping a beat, yelled "What in the hell did you do"? I explained, as I removed his floppy and re-booted the system, that I didn't believe that there was anything that _couldn't_ be done with a computer and so had 'messed' with the operating system. Once I explained what I had done he relaxed a bit and even offered to help me hunt down the bug. I don't remember if we ever found it or not, but from that day on, every time there was a computer glitch, he would look at me and ask "Any special projects running today, Joe"? The moral of the story is ... Never say never. Well, let's get on with the reason for this column... all the great news, hints, tips, and info available every week right here on CompuServe. From the Atari Computing Forums =============================== On the subject of noisy hard drives and cooling fans, Carl Katz posts: "...I have been thinking about mounting my hard drive under my computer table station, which would definitely cut down on fan noise which intrudes on the high frequency range. Whenever I am doing crucial work such as mixing, I don 't even turn on my hard drive and use my floppy drive since once my sequencing is finished I don't need the speed of my HD." Frank Heller tells Carl: "I guess I can deal with the minimal fan noise that comes out of the NuDesign 1.2gig HD in my control room. It was the indamnible noise from the Falcon that almost drove me looney. That turned out to be both the 80meg internal HD and the fan. I removed them both. That led to an interesting discovery: You can't format or partition an external HD without the internal HD's presence>>>UNLESS<<< you instal ICD's ICDBOOT.PRG (v6.5.2 I think). Then, you can have an external HD without the accursedly noisy IDE internal drive. If you use Cubase Audio Falcon, this software is an ABSOLUTE must. It solves a lot of problems TOS4.04 causes for HD audio recording." Albert Dayes of Atari Explorer Online Magazine tells Frank: "The most current version of ICD software is 6.5.5." Chris Roth asks Albert: "Does the current version of ICD software still create AHDI-incompatible partitions? If yes, there are other, at least as fast and reliable hard disk-utilities/drivers?" Frank Heller asks Chris: "Well...now you've got me curious. What is an ADHI-incompatable partition? Once I've formatted partitions with ICD...I am actually able to use HD's larger than 1gig and partitions larger than 256meg. For CAF use...this is wonderful. With AHDI/HDX you can't. I threw those crappy little utilities out of my system over a year ago and haven't looked back since. (I see I've typo'd AHDI in my second sentence...goodness..it's been so long since I used it that I've forgotten how to spell it.)" Simon Churchill tells us: "To those who may be interested. 8-) A compatable 'AHDI' partition is simply thus: (X Bytes logical sector = 1 sector) * 32768 (Doubled if TOS =>1.4) Where 'X' is 512, 1024, 2048, 4096, 8192. Ok it's a bit thin I know but the basic idea when the AHDI was first used was each sector equaled 512 Bytes. TOS'es blow 1.4 could use 32768 sectors which meant a partition size of 16Meg. TOS's 1.4 and above has this figure doubled and can use 32Meg partition's. A compatable AHDI formated drive MUST have the first partition formated as a normal GEM type which is 16Meg (or less) or 32Meg (or less) dependent on TOS used. The following partitions are normaly called BGM partition and can be up to 16 times larger. That is insead ofusing 512 Byte sector's, X byte logical sectors are assigned to each sector. So we still have 32768 sector's (TOS <1.4), (Double for TOS =>1.4) but the logical sector can be 512, 1024, 2048, 4096 or a maximum of 8192 Bytes in length. That mean's we have 32768 sector's each up to a maximum of 8192 Bytes making a maximum sized AHDI compatable partition of 256Meg. (512Meg for TOS=>1.4) And giving on a suitably sized drive(s) a maximum of 3.5Giga Bytes for TOS <1.4 and 7Giga Bytes for TOS =>1.4. 8-) Now how's about that for some starage space! This compatability gives a maximum of 16 times partition size over the original AHDI system and is still backward's compatable. I have a 270Meg drive in my towered system (STFM) and I have set it up as follows. C: About 14Meg (GEM) D:-K: 32Meg (BGM's) The reason for this is I have TOS 1.2 and 2.06 in the tower and require the back compatability for some rograms which don't like TOS 2.06. So I am using 8 partitions and each is using 1024 Byte Logical Sector's with 32768 actual sector's (Compatability for TOS 1.2) giving me 32Meg partition's. Each has been assigned to a different type of program. EG C: is for boot and utils. D: is for WP E: is for DTP F: is for something that I can't remember. Could be STOS G: - J: are for music art sampling and games. K: is reserved empty at all times for odd commpressions, decompressions, Partition to partition copying and somewere safe to save a file IF the Partition it would normaly go in get's full. (With sound sampling a few 3.5Meg files soon fill a partition!) Well, I hope this has clouded your mind! PS - I have a towered STFM with 270Meg HD and TWO PSU's inside and NO fan, all is cool. (Got a built in heat monitor near the PSU's to worn me - just in case!) I don't realy notice the drives whrrr it's SOOO quite, Even at 4am when I am playing Frontier........." Frank Heller tells Simon: "Quite the little history lesson, Simon. I am downloading this for future (unclouded) reference. Nice job. Thank you, I appreciate the info." Greg Montano asks another hard drive related question: "I have a question with ICD 6.5.5 I am currently using it and have a slight problem. I have a 540 meg drive. For some wacky reason when i format with 1 partition to 540 megs, the drive apperas to work, but I can't get the boot sector recognized with Diamond Edge. But if I make two partitions, 1 5 megs and the other 53 it works? For some reason thats the default that ICD pro gives the 5 meg and the 535. This is not my boot drive but a secondary drive. I now plan to use my syquest 270, so this may be mute, but what could this be?" Frank Heller tells Greg: "Send some EMAIL to ICD: Tom Harker. They have a forum section on GO ATARIVEN. I think the guy that wrote the software will give you a better answer than I ever could. BTW: I don't have a clue." Mark Westendorf tells us that he's... "Looking to replace a mouse for a 1040 ST. Anyone know where I can get one? ANd can an IBM mouse be made to work on an ST?" Frank Heller tells Mark: "There are two decent mice replacements (as far as I know) for the Atari. One is a device known as the Beetlemouse. The other is made by a company called Golden Image. Both of these units have hardware drivers that are INFINATELY superior to the stock Atari units. Try one for 3 seconds and you'll immediately know what I'm talking about. I think you can get these thru TOAD Computers 800-448-8623. As to modifying an IBM...I dunno. The early Golden Image's had a switch that let you choose Atari or PC operation...so it may be possible to modify a PC mouse." Matthew Szewczyk tells mark: "An IBM mouse won't work. Try getting a Golden Image mouse - they work great, alot more sensitive and faster on the roll." Albert Dayes adds: "The Golden Image mouse is around $34 or so. It is available from Toad computers and other Atari dealers. There are some drivers that allow STs to use PC mice but I have no experience with them personally." Sysop Bob Retelle tells Mark: "As the other messages indicated, there are a few direct replacements for the Atari mouse that are very good... Also, you CAN use a PC mouse, with some changes.. DMC Publishing sells a software driver that will let you use a PC *serial* mouse with no hardware modificatons.. they have a section in the Atari Vendors Forum (GO ATARIVEN) for more information. You can modify the connections to a PC *bus* mouse to use it directly on an ST with no software changes. We should have several text files in our libraries here that tell how to do that.. try searching with keywords like IBM and MOUSE." Mike Myers asks for... "Help (Again) I'm having a most interesting time right now. It seems that something or other keeps corrupting files, and it seems to be associated with one hard drive partition, C. I cannot load Neodesk, because the Neodesk.exe file seems to be shot. Also, I moved my wordprocessor, Wordwriter to partition D, because it was (possibly) making it impossible to get anything but a coloured screen, with no icons. One time, I repartitioned the hard disk, hoping to clean out whatever was causing the trouble. The C partition has been zeroed, using Diamond Edge twice. Somebody give me some suggestions, I'm just waiting for the next time. I still have the STe Language disk that came with the ST1040, would putting that back thru and rebuilding work?" Albert Dayes asks Mike: "Did you check your DMA cable? What host adapter are you using? Are you using ICD and if so what software? Have you tried reformatting? Also it might be a problem of loose chips (MMU, SHIFTER and DMA) that need to be reseated." Mike posts: "First, this is an odd one, but a lot of people have given me good advice lately in this forum, and because of problems with corrupted software, I haven't been able to say "Thank you". If you're one of them, thank you. Second, I have GDOS that came with the software. I tried to get Fontgdos to work, as downloaded from a library, but either it was corrupt, or my system corrupted it. So, how do you install plain old GDOS? Is there anything in a library that would help, such as directions? I have GDOS.PRG, and double clicked it, but nothing happened." Simon Churchill tells Mike: "Welcome to the land of GDOS, I am a bit of a guru on GDOS these day's as I have used many of the ahum releases. If you have FontGdos and require some help in installing it then look up a text file which was a reply I wrote but got stored in the library by request from other's. (Those sysop's are lovly guys) First the main GDOS.PRG should be put in the AUTO folder as it is required to load as the machine boot's. Ie before gem get's in full swing. But, before GDOS is any good you need a directory with some font's in it and preferably a printer driver. First the directory is normaly call 'FONTS' or 'GEMSYS' these are the most common anyway. In the directory shoud be screen and printer font's at variouse sizes EG SSS012RM.FNT LSS012RM.FNT This is not a be all and end all as the format of the name changes quite abit, there is no real common standard but you will find a few guide lines in variouse text's. The first letter in the above is 'S' for screen and 'L' for a laser printer or a 300*300 or 360360 Printing device. The next two are the type face name, I have used 'SS' in the examples as SANS SERIF. The numbers '012' means the font is a 12 point font. (there are 72point's to the inch so a 12 point font is about 1/6 of an inch high) The 'RM' stands for Roman or upright. Sometimes you get 'I's for itablics, 'B's for bold, 'C's for condenced, 'O's for outlined and other's. You know it's a FoNT by it's extension. Once all the required ont's are collected together you need a printer drive for your attached printer. This gose in the same directory. Once all that is sorted all you need is the ASSIGN.SYS file, this is what the GDOS program will first look for as it boot's and contain's a PATH to the font's and driver's, a list of the FONT names for each screen resolution, a list of FONTS after the printer driver entry for the printer's FONT's. This file is placed in the root directory so that GDOS.PRG can find it when it is executed. If you then run a GDOS compatable program like Timework's DTP (After fontwid - this is for timeworks only, it's a special program that check's high detail's and put's the info in a file called publish.wid which timework's need's to load) you then get access to the font's for the screen ad printing. Look out in the lib's for all TXT files to do with GDOS and if you don't have it a complete download of the GDOS main archives. These are essential files!! Have fun and let's me now how you get on." Frank Heller reminds us of one of the most important rules in the computer world: "First rule of Maintenance: If It Don't Work...Whack It. Once is Maintenance, Twice Is Abuse. 90% of everything that goes wrong with electronic gear is mechanical in nature. Your story proves the point, once again. Glad it's workin'." John Randone asks about using a CD-ROM with his Atari: "I downloaded the CD list for atari computers, and finally got it unarchived with ST ZIP 2.6. So now, if I wanted to get a CD ROM for my ST, what kind of hardware and software do I need? I suppose the items I've listed below, plus more? If more, what else? Thanks for your help. Hardware: any SCSI compatible CD ROM drive, 2x or better. This can plug directly into the second terminal of my Double Hard Disk Deluxe Case. Software: Extendos to enable the system to recognize the CD ROM, as well as VARIOUS READERS to be able to retrieve the data from the disks on the list. Each reader can only read the data for the particular disks listed. Are these readers commercially or otherwise available? Where can they be obtained, and at what cost? Also, do any of these things do the "tricks" the Windows ones do? Like showing sound and motion clips of, say, a beating heart? Or a helicopter in flight? Or any kind of interactive activities?" Greg Kopchak of It's All Relative Software tells John: "You need a SCSI-2 CD rom drive, ExtenDOS Pro (available from us or from all the better Atari dealers), and connecting cable. On a ST or STe series you also need the Link or AdSCI Plus adapter. For a TT or Falcon all you need is the cable. The revised CD list coming in May will have over 1,100 titles on it. For an animations disc, we suggest Awesome Animations, Animation Festival, or Hot Stuff. All three are loaded with tons of animations. What computer do you have? We can suggest a few animation viewers for you. Leave me e-mail with a mailing address and I'll get the latest It's All Relative newsletter out to you and the 40 page color catalog of CD's from Walnut Creek." Albert Dayes of Atari Explorer Online Magazine tells John: "Software-wise ExtenDOS PRO is the way to go. Hardware wise there are many choices. I would consider a 4x drive since prices are not too high. Also you need an ICD host adapter on your ST. There are a few readers and SARA is one that comes to mind. Greg of Its All Relative can tell you the precise details on SARA." Alberto Sanchez jumps in and asks: "What is SARA?" Albert tells Alberto: "SARA is a software program to read different CD-ROMs. One of the CDs supported is Compton's Encyclopedia." Patrick Wong asks: "Since you're talking about SARA maybe you could help answer this. I have a friend who wants to buy a CD-ROM for his STe and he was wondering if he'll be able to run some of his reference CDs. They're just basic Windows CD-ROMS that's sort of like the encyclopedia except it's nothing but text. Would you know if he'll be able to run this on the STe?" Greg Kopchak tells Patrick (and the rest of us): "There are two SARA packages, one that reads twelve DOS CD's........ CD-ROM Deluxe Toolworks Reference Library The Family Doctor - DOS Version Sherlock Holmes on Disc (Disc Passage) Shakesphere on Disc (Disc Passage) Multimedia Audubon Animals Wayzata World Fact Book 1993 Time Man of the Year The Powerhouse Art History Encyclopedia Software Toolworks Reference Library Total Baseball 1993 Edition Total Baseball 1994 Edition Parenting - Prenatal to Preschool The other SARA is for Groliers only. They are available through all the better Atari dealers. You need version 6 of Groliers for use with the SARA reader. SARA is not a CD rom driver. You still need ExtenDOS to read the disc. SARA reads the data on the disc and acts as an interface to the data. On an STe you can access text and sound. A TT or Falcon is required for graphics. Most of the value of the discs supported by SARA is in the text, not in the graphics, so you don't lose too much with an STe. See our CDLIST.ZIP here in the libraries for over 800 CD's you can use with an Atari computer. Along with SARA, our Photo Show Pro supports over 400 commercial CD's in the Kodak Photo CD format or Corel Photo CD format. Photo Show Pro comes in a special STe version too. The shareware M.O.S.T. viewer is most likely available for download here too. With it you can read M.O.S.T. format CD's. For DTP, there are close to 100 clip art and font CD's that can be used with your favorite DTP program. Fouch Software just released a special front end to use with one of these on an Atari. heeler Clip Art has an Atari CD out too. There are also fifteen Atari shareware / public domain CD's released to date including Crawly Crypt 2, just published March 30. Actually it went on sale April 1 at the TAF Show in Toronto but I hate to use that date :-> If you have any questions about CD rom and the Atari, feel free to ask." Will Dwinnell jumps in and asks: "I just got here, so I think I may have missed some basic material. Here's my setup: Atari 1040 STe (1 meg RAM, original TOS 1.06 chips). The STe is connected to a SyQuest 88 drive, which it shares with an IBM clone via a SCSI switch box (so only one of them can access it at any given time, obviously). The cartridge drive/switch box (it's all in one housing) also has a free port marked "OUT - other DMA". Can I connect a CD-ROM to the STe? So that both the IBM and the STe can use it? Oh, the controller is an ICD+." Albert Dayes tells Will: "In the library there is a list of all known CD-ROM titles that work. It was uploaded by Greg of Its All Relative. From what I recall it is close to 1100 titles in that list (that work on the ST). It really depends on what CD-ROM title authoring software was used. I would assume if they require Windows they probably use something that proprietary. Greg of Its All Relative can give you more details on how SARA works." Woody Windischman asks an interesting question: "Something I always wondered... On the original 520ST boxes, they have lots of screen shots. If you look carefully, you will find that several of them represent the TOS/GEM desktop in a HIGH-RES COLOR mode that never existed. Anyone here know where those shots came from?" Albert Dayes tells Woody: "I do not recall those screen shots on the 520ST boxes. I could guess that the shots were either from a prototype machine or the PC version." The last item this week is from our good friend Doug Finch. He posts: "Congratulations are in order for Brian Gockley @ ST Informer...and his lovely wife Angela. A few days ago (Tuesday, I think) Angela delivered their second child, David Andrew, an 8-pound, 6-ounce bundle of joy. If we don't see Brian in the Atari forums for a few days, I suspect he might be catching some shut-eye from a demanding evening schedule..." Well, that's it for this week folks. Congratulations to Brian and Angela Gockley.... And to you for making it all the way through this column! <grin> Tune in again next week, same time, same station, and be ready to listen to what they are saying when... PEOPLE ARE TALKING """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STReport's "EDITORIAL CARTOON" """""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > A "Quotable Quote" A true "Sign of the Times" """"""""""""""""" WHERE ARE THEY WHEN WE NEED 'EM? Hey NEWT!! Wanna do something for your country and the taxpayers?? STOP THE GASOLINE PRICES FROM GOING THROUGH THE ROOF! 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