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how2run.txt
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1993-01-03
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6KB
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ABOUT SHAREWARE...
Most shareware is every bit as good as commercial software but
it does have some differences. Usually the instructions for running
the software are stored on the disk in .DOC or .TXT files. You may
also find file names like READ.ME or README.1ST. Before running the
programs you should read these files to determine how to install or
run the software.
DOS provides only one very poor method for viewing text files,
the TYPE command. Simply enter the command, TYPE FILENAME.DOC, then
use the pause and return keys to scroll through the document.
(There are many programs available that allow you to view text files
the same way you are viewing this one.)
You can print the document by entering the command, COPY
FILENAME.DOC PRN:. This will cause the document to be printed out
on your printer.
FILE TYPES...
As you try out new software you will find many different types of
files. The type of file is usually denoted by it's extension. Below
is a list of the more common file types and their meaning.
FILENAME.EXE - An executable file. Just type the filename without the
extension to execute the program.
FILENAME.COM - A command file. Operates the same as an executable
file.
FILENAME.BAS - This type of file requires a BASIC interpreter to run.
It must be used in conjunction with a program like
GWBASIC or BASICA. Usually you can learn more about
the program by "listing" it out and reading the
internal comments.
FILENAME.DOC - This is a documentation file. Most always contains
documentation for the program it comes with.
FILENAME.TXT - Sometimes used for documentation. Most often used for
information files, not necessarily related to
programs.
FILENAME.ZIP - This means the file has been archived. Will need to be
"un-arced" before using. Other more common archive
extensions are, .ARC, .LZH, .PAK. Chestnut uses the
.ZIP extension.
FILENAME.BAT - This is a batch file, one of the most useful features
of DOS. Batch files may contain any DOS commands. They
can display text and perform loops to vastly reduce
repetitive keystrokes. Batch files are invoked like
.EXE or .COM files, they will then execute each line
in the batch file as if it were entered from the
command line. A special batch file named, AUTOEXEC
.BAT, will automatically execute when the computer is
"booted". To create a BATCH file you must use a text
editor not a word processor. DOS provide a simple
text editor called EDLIN.COM. (See your DOS manual
for more instructions on creating and using batch
files.)
FILENAME.DAT - This type of file will almost always contains data
that the program needs or has created.
There will also be many different graphics or picture extensions.
(.PIC. .IMG, .GIF, .RLE, etc...) Usually graphics with different
extensions are created differently and are not compatible, although
there are several programs that read and convert different formats.
File extensions can be any thing you choose, so there will many
that are program specific.
BASIC PROGRAMS...
Some programs in the catalog will require a compatible version
of the BASIC programming language to run, usually GWBASIC or BASICA.
Using BASICA as an example you can run BASIC programs by having
BASICA.EXE and the BASIC program, FILENAME.BAS in the same directory,
then typing, BASICA FILENAME. ( Leave off the .BAS extension.) You
can also run them by invoking BASIC, then typing the command, RUN
'FILENAME'.
******************************************************************
SHAREWARE SOFTWARE SUMMARY
Shareware is software marketed on a "Try before you buy"
basis. The price per disk that Shareware distributors charge
is a distribution fee and not the price of the software.
Shareware authors have agreed to allow vendors (like us) to
recover expenses for copying, packaging, and maintaining a
shareware library. This allows you to obtain software programs
at incredibly low prices to try, then pay the registration
price for them only if they suit your needs. The idea is
that after a reasonable trial period, if you find the
programs to be of use, you are expected to send the author
the registration fee.
Registration entitles you to various rights and
benefits. These include such basic things as the legal (and
moral) right to continue using the software. In addition many
shareware authors offer printed documentation and/or higher
levels of service and support. Unlike Public Domain software,
which is free to everyone with no fees asked for or
expected, shareware programs exist because the authors
expect and deserve the registration support from people
who use their programs.
So that's Shareware. If you like it, support it !
******************************************************************
ASP OMBUDSPERSON
ASP wants to make sure the Shareware principle works for
you. If you are unable to resolve a shareware-related problem
with an ASP member by contacting the member directly, ASP may
be able to help. The ASP Ombudsperson can help you resolve a
dispute or problem with an ASP member, but does not provide
technical support for members products.
ASP Ombudsperson
545 Grover Road
Muskegon, MI 49442
Shareware is not just a novel idea. It is a real solution
to the Program Author's distribution problems and the Software
consumer's high prices. It's simply great for everyone, but
will work only if Author's keep their promises and consumer's
pay for the products they use. So if you like the shareware
concept, support it and register programs you use!