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Text File | 1992-01-03 | 92KB | 2,059 lines

*---== ST REPORT INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE ==---* """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" "The Original 16/32bit Online Magazine" January 03, 1992 No.8.01 ========================================================================== STReport International Online Magazine Post Office Box 6672 Jacksonville, Florida 32205 ~ 6672 R.F. Mariano Publisher - Editor ----------------------------------------- Voice: 904-783-3319 10 AM - 4 PM EST BBS: 904-786-4176 USR/HST DUAL STANDARD FAX: 904-783-3319 12 AM - 6 AM EST ----------------------------------------- STR East: FNET 350 - The Bounty ST BBS <Home of STR> 1-904-786-4176 STR West: FNET 075 - Bloom County BBS 1-415-965-9347 STR Canada: FNET 018 - ///Turbo Board Support 1-416-274-1225 STR Europe: FNET 1031 - <<<INTERNET>>> 011-44-296-395-935 __________________________________________________________________ > 01/03/92: STReport #8.01 The Original 16/32 bit Online Magazine! ------------------------- - The Editor's Desk - CPU REPORT - APPLE > Good Xmas! - FREEZE DRIED TERM - SCANLITE REVIEW - MONITERM UPDATES - QUICK ST & CODEHEAD - AJAX & 1.44MB - STR Confidential -* UPGRADE MSTE HARD DISK *- -* KNIGHTMARE RELEASED! *- -* GEMULATOR FOR YOU? *- ========================================================================== ST REPORT INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE The _Number One_ Online Magazine -* FEATURING *- "UP-TO-DATE News and Information" Current Events, Original Articles, Hot Tips, and Information Hardware - Software - Corporate - R & D - Imports ========================================================================== STReport's support BBS, NODE 350, invites BBS systems, worldwide, to participate in the Fido/F-Net Mail Network. Or, call Node 350 direct at 904-786-4176, and enjoy the excitement of exchanging information relative to the Atari ST computer arena through an excellent International ST Mail Network. All registered F-NET - Crossnet SysOps are welcome to join the STReport Crossnet Conference. The Crossnet Conference Code is #34813, and the "Lead Node" is # 350. All systems are welcome and invited to actively participate. Support Atari Computers; Join Today! ========================================================================== AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY ON: GENIE ~ CIS ~ DELPHI ~ BIX ~ FIDO ~ F-NET ========================================================================== COMPUSERVE WILL PRESENT $15.00 WORTH OF COMPLIMENTARY ONLINE TIME to the Readers of; ST REPORT 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! WHAT'S NEW IN THE ATARI FORUMS (January 3) "HIDDEN" TREASURES IN ATARI PRODUCTIVITY FORUM (GO ATARIPRO) DO YOU HAVE THIS FILE? TURBO BOARD ST BBS. A shareware, full-featured BBS system for your Atari ST. Featuring Doors, Crossnet message bases, and FNET Network message bases. Compatible with Binkley Term, Fido, Fidodooor, QBBS and Fido Mailer. File: TURBO1.LZH in Library 2 ("Telecommunications"). DO YOU HAVE THIS FILE? RUNNER SEMI-REPLACEMENT DESKTOP. Runner allows you to create your own menu, supports user-definable background pictures, and operates in all three resolution modes! File: RUNNER.ARC in Library 4 ("Utilities"). DO YOU HAVE THIS FILE? The Church Treasurer - a complete software package dedicated to take care of your record-keeping needs. Fully configurable, this program promotes efficient and friendly data entry and supports numerous screen and hardcopy options. Many fun-to-use features included. File: TREASU.ARC in Library 5 ("Applications"). DO YOU HAVE THIS FILE? CDBASE - an easy-to-use compact disk cataloging database. It presents your collection using a graphic format and allows you to view, edit, search and print lists. File: CDBASE.ARC in Library 5 ("Applications"). FRENCH ANIMATION PROGRAM Rob Rasmussen has uploaded an incredible little animation that is really worth a look. It's in French, and has a rather awkward ending, but its something that I found amazing in such a small file (68k). Try out AWORLD.LZH now available in LIBRARY 17 of the Atari Arts Forum (GO ATARIARTS). PRODUCT ANNOUNCEMENTS FROM CODEHEAD SOFTWARE Some great new product announcements from Codehead Software in LIBRARY 16 of the Atari Vendors Forum (GO ATARIVEN): TEC.TXT - Upgrade your 520, 1040, or Mega ST to TOS 2.06! QUICK.TXT - CodeHead Software assumes support of Quick ST 3! MEGSLM.ARC - Patch to let MegaPaint print on US SLM804s MEGMOD.ARC - Package of external modules for MegaPaint Pro NEW VERSION OF ARCSHELL Charles Johnson has uploaded his newest shareware version of ARCSHELL, version 3.1, to LIBRARY 4 of the Atari Productivity Forum (GO ATARIPRO). This version has significant new features and supports all the latest versions of Questor's LHARC utility. THE ATARI PORTFOLIO FORUM ON COMPUSERVE HAS BEEN DESIGNATED AN OFFICIAL SUPPORT SITE BY ATARI CORPORATION "GO APORTFOLIO TO ACCESS THE ATARI PORTFOLIO FORUM" *********************************************************************** > CPU STATUS REPORT LATE BREAKING INDUSTRY-WIDE NEWS ================= Issue #52 Compiled by: Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr. -- Low and Mid-Level Mac's Have a Successful Christmas Season Because of their popularity, the prices for the low and mid-level Mac's climbed during the Christmas season. The two most popular choices were the Mac SE Model 40 and the Mac Plus. Prices on both climbed $50-$60 during the Christmas season due to their popularity. The Apple IIgs gained $45, while the Mac SE/30 jumped $100 in comparison to their pre-Christmas prices. -- Super Nintendo Nearing the 2 Million Mark According to Nintendo of America, the Super Nintendo Entertainment Sys- tem, in four months of retail sales, is set to break the 2 million unit mark. It is reported that Nintendo had set a goal of selling 2.2 million units this year and according to the company, "The Super NES will outsell all competitors close to 2-to-1 by the end of 1991,". -- Analysts Say Sega's Genesis Beat Nintendo in Christmas Sales Analyst John Taylor of L.H. Alton & Co said that Sega's $150 unit out- sold Nintendo's $190 unit by a 2-to-1 margin in the final week before Christmas. Sega said it sold 1.6 million Genesis systems this year and that the company was sold out of product just prior to Christmas after having to air ship extra units in from Japan to meet demand. Sega President Tom Kalinske estimates Genesis has 56% of the smaller 16- bit market now while Nintendo holds 31%. Some analysts feel that Nintendo made a mistake in not making the system compatible with the existing 8-bit game unit. -- Nintendo Gets Monopoly Parker Brothers' Monopoly has introduced a version for Nintendo's Game Boy system. It will be demonstrated Jan. 9 at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The $29.99 game can be played by one to four people and the players can take on up to eight computer opponents, each with a different skill level. -- New Chip Speeds Battery Charging QuickSaver, a rapid charge battery controller chip from Integrated Cir- cuit Systems, is designed to recharge nickel-cadmium (NiCad) batteries safely in 20 minutes rather than a couple of hours. Nickel cadmium batteries are popular not only in portable computers but in cellular telephone, cordless power tools, and other devices. According to Integrated Circuit Systems, QuickSaver also enhances NiCad reliability, prolongs battery life, and ensures a full charge every time. -- "Stoned III" Virus Only on Novell 5.25" Disks According to a statement issued by Novell Inc., the "Stoned III" virus was accidently shipped on some of its Network Support Encyclopedia disks. The encyclopedia provides technical reference information directly to network service organizations on a subscription basis and is not resold through distribution channels. It is available on CD ROM, 5.25- and 3.5-inch disks. However, only the 5.25-inch disks were affected. -- Cray Computer Looses Initial Contract Due to Cray Computer Corporation missing a December 9th demonstration milestone, the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory cancelled its order for the initial Cray 3 supercomputer with Cray Computer Company and excercised its option to buy a Cray C-90 from Cray Research Inc. Because of this action, Cray Computer Corp. will not realize the appr. $30 million revenue on this 1992 contract and will be seeking another purchaser. Cray Computer Corporation was spun off of Cray Research to develop the Cray 3 supercomputer with the parent company supplying the initial $98.6 million funding. -- For the Man that Has Everything, a $54,000 Clock Hewlett-Packard's (HP) new HP 5071A, a $54,000 atomic clock, is being heralded as the most precise time piece in the world. HP says the clock will only lose a single second in a time span of 1.6 million years. The new clock is not totally foolproof. HP estimates one failure every ten years, and only warranties the clock for five years. Atomic clocks provide the accuracy necessary for astronomy, the space program, radio and television signals, and communication companies. -- Healthline Settles with SPA After a surprise audit by the Software Publishers Association (SPA) on August 6th, Healthline Systems has agreed to pay a cash settlement to Lotus Development, Microsoft, Symantec, Wordperfect, and Wordstar International, all SPA members. Healthline also agreed to accept a consent decree barring illegal copying of copyrighted software. -- SPA Involved in Divorce Action After a divorce judge recently ruled that a man give copies of his soft- ware to his wife, the man contacted SPA for help in convincing the judge that this would be illegal, immoral, and unethical. SPA intervened and got the ruling vacated. However, the man is probably not too happy with the results, as the Judge changed his ruling so that the man had to turn over the originals of the software to his wife instead of the illegal copies. _______________________________________________________ > FREEZE DRIED TERMINAL STR FOCUS "Absolutely, THE VERY BEST!" =============================== Excerpts from included DOC File; by Aaron Hopkins compiled by R.F. Mariano commentary by R.F. Mariano FreeZe Dried Terminal was written by a BBS (Bulletin Board System) addict. It was written because the "best" of all available Terminal Programs just wasn't good enough for my use. The original purpose was to write a more usable terminal program just for my personal use, but as it grew and developed, I gave it to a few friends and they enjoyed it so much that my goal became developing it enough to the point of perfection, at which time I would release it. But as I worked on it, I discovered that it never could be quite perfect, and at some point I would have to stop and say "This is it, I'm going to release this if it kills me." You see, I am a bit of a perfectionist. FZT can never be perfect, and never will. There will always be things to change, new features to add. I started FzDSTerm in mid-August, 1990 and it has taken me over a year to get this far. I hope you enjoy using it as much as I and my Beta-testers do. Let me start out with the correct way to pronounce FzDS, the acronym for FreeZe Dried Software. Whenever saying the name it is pronouced "FizzDizz and FizzDizz Software." The software group is dedicated to bringing you the finest available programs with a reasonable price. It was started by the authors of UBBS, Brian Hauer and Sean Price. It was originally FDS Software, but when we were told that FDS is a brand of feminine hygiene products we promptly changed the name. A partial list of the powerful features offered: o Colorful, Intuitive non-GEM user interface with full mouse control and keyboard commands for most selections. o True 19200 baud input handling. Use your high-speed modem as it was meant to be used. o VT-52, ANSI, UBT-Graphics, Instant Graphics, and more. o Any external protocol can be installed under easy-to-use shell: Currently installed protocols include Z-Modem Batch, Y-Modem Batch, Y-Modem G Batch, F-Modem Batch, X-Modem 1k, X-Modem CRC, X-Modem Checksum. o Any protocol can be set up to Auto-Start receiving or sending. o Full Featured Auto-Dialer With 45 slots, redial, and chain dialing. o Auto-Logon Sequences for each BBS to get you on with few keystrokes. o Auto-Macros for each BBS to perform repetitive tasks for you. o 40 Macros with the ability to perform any script command or keyboard command, chaining macros, and much more. o 5 extra Macros for each BBS to hold your personal information, such as Handle, Password, etc. o Full Featured Capture Buffer, including block commands to save, ASCII send, etc. a block of text. o Full Featured Text Editor. o Flash!(tm) FULL Compatibility -> .DO Script Files. o Full Featured Disk Commands, including Format Floppy and an LZH/ARC/ZIP archiver shell. o 1000 Character Type Ahead Buffer. o Several built-in fonts and the ability to load standard .FED 8x8 Font Files. o Affordable Registration Price ($25) o Fully usable Demo, with only non-essential commands disabled and no time limit. o Complete In-Depth Documentation. NOTE: FzDSTerm requires at least 1 Meg of RAM to run; I cannot say that FzT will even boot with under a Meg, much less function properly. You will be warned if FzT cannot use the current resolution, and only resolutions of 640 by 200(400/600/800) by 4(Mono/16) colors can be used at the moment. (To my knowledge this only includes ST Medium and ST High, and possibly some of the new graphics cards.) Why Do I Need a Good Terminal Program? -------------------------------------- Modems (short for MOdulator/DEModulator) are devices which allow one computer to communicate with another through standard telephone lines. To use a modem, you will need a few things. First, you need something capable of connecting to the modem to allow the user to interact with whats going on with the modem. Also, you need a modem and appropriate connectors (RS-232 cable, etc.) Lastly, and the most importantly, is the software to allow the modem to communicate with the computer and the user. This is referred to as a Terminal program. You can have the most expensive computer and the fastest modem, but if you don't have a good terminal program you are nowhere. Many people have had a terminal program that they've been using for a long time, and that they're happy with. They're happy, thats all that matters. I was happy with my 8-bit for a long time, I was sure that it could handle all that I needed to do. But then I saw an ST over at a friends house, and it could do all that I NEEDed to do, plus much more. It was faster with a better user interface, and had the extras that made computing easier and more interesting. This same idea applies to Term programs, something else may work for your NEEDs, but does it do all that you WANT? There have of course are a lot of other programs out there and many have things about them that nothing else can touch. But most, if not all, trade one feature for another. If you want true 19200 baud communications, you might have had to sacrifice something else. If you wanted IGS graphics, you would have had to put up with a completely featureless terminal. If you wanted a feature packed program, you would have had to sacrifice ease of use or speed. Its a trade-off. But FzDSTerm has everything I or any of my beta testers have ever needed, wanted, or thought of, all in a very fast, easy to setup and use package. Your archive (or disk) should contain: FZDSTERM.PRG The FzDSTerm Main Program (Demo versions are named "FZT_Dxxx.PRG", where xxx is the version without the decimal point.) FZDSTERM.DOC This documentation REGISTER.DOC Registration information PRINT.ME Registration Form CONV2FZT.PRG Converter for Interlink and Flash files to FZT format CONV2FZT.DOC Docs for Converter XYZ201.TTP X-Modem, Y-Modem and Z-Modem protocals v2.01 XYZ201.DOC Documentation file to go with XYZ201.TTP FZDSXFER.TTP Beta Test Version of the FreeZe Dried Protocols FZDSXFER.DOC Documentation for the FzDS Transfer Protocols NOTE: Other, unlisted programs or documentation may be included for your convenience. It will also (eventually) create the following files: FZDSTERM.CFG The configuration file FZDSTERM.NUM The default autodialer directory FZDSTERM.MAC The default macro set Next week, we will have more on this superb terminal program. As we were going to press with this item, there are updates and modifications being conjured up to further enhance this powerhouse terminal program. As a staunch Flash and Interlink user, I went to many different terminal programs that have been offered to the Atari marketplace but always went back to the "old favorites". Folks, this terminal program has it all! I've changed over and am I ever glad I did. FZD has so many features and options that one can find something new most every time one boots the program. You OWE it to yourself to check this terminal program out completely before you go for any long bux on the "fancy". This baby is FANCY, STRONG, FLEXIBLE, FAST and... the author is available on all services and the FNET in the FZD conference. *********************************************************************** :HOW TO GET YOUR OWN GENIE ACCOUNT: _________________________________ To sign up for GEnie service: 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 costs only $4.95 a month for unlimited evening and weekend access to more than 100 services including electronic mail, online encyclopedia, shopping, news, entertainment, single-player games, and bulletin boards on leisure and professional subjects. With many other services, including the biggest collection of files to download and the best online games, for only $6 per hour. MONEY BACK GUARANTEE! Any time during your first month of membership if you are not completely satisfied, just ask for your $4.95 back. GEnie Announcements (FREE) 1. Help out GEnie, take our free survey today..................*SURVEY 2. GEnie DECALS now being mailed...............................*ORDER 3. Win CA$H & connect time prizes in our tourney...............BACKGAMMON 4. Hot games, big fun, huge value - still time left............SOFTCLUB 5. RTC 1/5 10 PM: How to Start a Profitable Home Business......HOSB 6. Cut to the chase... HOT NEW THINGS to do in ---->...........A2 7. Meet the author of MY TEACHER IS AN ALIEN at a special RTC..WRITERS 8. During the COLLEGE BOWL & NFL PLAYOFFS, play the game of....QB1 9. If you're a new GEnie User, see us in the GEnie Users' RT,..GENIEUS 10. If you play RSCARDS GAMES we have a Category for you in.....MPGRT 11. Check out what's happening in the Unix RT...................UNIX 12. It's one of the funnest games around, join others playing...TRIVIA The ST Roundtable Staff would like to wish all of you the BEST upcoming year yet. Coming January 14th, the beginning of Lexicors Virtual Cinematography and Graphic Art classes. The classes will begin at 10pm Eastern in room 5. The first class will be FREE. GEnie Information copyright (C) 1991 by General Electric Information Services/GEnie, reprinted by permission *********************************************************************** > The Flip Side STR Feature "...a different viewpoint" ========================= A LITTLE OF THIS, A LITTLE OF THAT ================================== by Michael Lee Due to illness, STReport was not published last week. So this week, you get two weeks' worth of my column. Here's some odds-and-ends in which to end the year. ---------------- From Hal Dougherty on CIS... I just got Best Electronic's Catalog in the mail today. They have EVERYTHING for the ST. I have three broken monitors and the service manual was $40. That's high for the size of the book, but where else can you get one. After I fix the monitors they will more than pay for the book. I have learned so much because I can't just take my stuff to the local repair shop and pay money to get it fixed. So far I have fixed everything on my ST's. The manual I got was just the service manual for the Goldstar Monitor. If you need a service manual for any ST product call Best Electronics at: 1-408-243-6950 They have any Atari manual or part you might need. Be sure to get one of the new catalogs. It is full of pictures of Atari stuff that was only made in limited quanities. ---------------- How safe is it to move a hard drive? - From Cat. 4, Topic 39, Msgs. 217, 218, 222 - from the ST Roundtable on Genie... From Fred Koch.... HDs can be safely transported. Just park the head, which should be done automatically when the power is turned off, and pack it in some cushioning, such as bubble wrap and a box, and take it along. I transported mine for a two day trip with no problems, and to and from user group meetings ocasionally with no problems. The greatest danger seems to be dropping one or otherwise producing a hard shock which might cause the head to hit the drive. After all, many portables have HDs in them and they are transported all the time. From Joe Meehan... Several people were I work were on the ill fated air liner that had a malfunction and the pilots had to try and land it without rudder control, they did great, but it still crashed, killing many people. Our employees made it out fine. Several months later we recieved a shipment, our laptop computer. It was a little ragged looking and had been fire damaged, but -it still worked- including the hard drive, we still had all the data. The moral of this story is, stay out of plan crashes, but if you are in one, don't worry about your hard drive. From Steve Johnson... I take my hard drive on a 80 mile road trip every now and then when I visit my parents with no ill effects whatsoever. And that's a HD where some of the internals are just lying in there unmounted (well, the host adaptor anyway!)! I wouldn't worry too much about it...or get a Stacy. ---------------- Craig Beaumont - A happy ST owner on CIS... I have been using a 1040 ST over 20hrs/wk every week for the past 5 years for business and music.... I live in a rural coastal community 1.5 hrs from a well-stocked Atari store but I have done most shopping by phone/mail. I have found so many stores selling/servicing Atari that I've always been happy with my choices. How much would you pay for a 4 Meg simm upgradable Mac or DOS w/Genlock, Stereo Digital sound, 4096 color palette w/mouse, joystick, light gun, Midi, printer, serial and HD ports? Under $550 for an STE...a low-end Atari. Lotus 123-using friends marvel at the speed and features of my LDW Power. Cost - slightly over $100. Keboard Mag's report on C-Lab's Notator, pg 122 Jan 92 issue "...isn't just the best Atari sequencer around. For ease of use and sheer # of features it outstrips just about every other sequencer we know about.". This doesn't sound like a machine that's " far too limited..expensive for the pitiful few features.."....My prejudice is obvious as I'm love with the "hobby toy computer" that helps me earn a six-figure income. ---------------- How to upgrade your MegaSTe's hard drive - From Bob Brodie (Atari) - Cat 14, Topic 40, Msg 157 - from the ST Roundtable on Genie... Look underneath the Mega STE where the hard disk is situated. There is a single screw under here that has to be removed in order for you to get to the Hard Disk. You can also access the roms, ram, and host adapter as well from this spot. Just lift up the hard disk and take it out of the case. Any standard 3-1/2" hard disk will fit in the bracket. I have a Seagate 60 meg unit installed in my demo unit. Before that, I had a 105 meg Quantum. Both formatted fine with the latest version of Atari Hard Disk Utilities. ---------------- Do you own a Moniterm monitor and want to know where to get it fixed? From Chris Kehoe - Cat. 4, Topic 25, Msg. 82 & 85 - from the ST Round- table on Genie... I've had my Moniterm Viking 2/91 for just under a year now. Just this last month it developed a blooming problem (that's where the screen display grows bigger and duller, then shrinks back down to it's normal size and brightness). When I called the people at Moniterm they told me they no longer service their monitors and gave me the name & number of ALX TECHNOLOGY in Mountian View, CA (415) 964-9365. Alex, the guy at ALX told me that Moniterm is going under and that he will most likily be handling all their west coast services. So I drove my monitor to his place and watched Alex check it out. Apparently my power supply was going bad. No big deal cause Alex had the parts on hand. Anyway, this guy had at least 20 or 30 large screen monitors, all being repaired in his shop and he seemed to have a good deal of spare parts laying around too. His card says "HIGH- RESOLUTION MONITOR SALES & SERVICE" and from the looks of his shop, he knows his stuff. As I was leaving his shop he mentioned the possibility of him buying out the rest of Moniterm's parts stock so if anyone needs their Moniterm serviced, I would think this is the guy to talk to. Check it out. ...my monitor is still under warranty so I don't know his charges. He said if he billed Moniterm by the end of the year he should get paid but he also said that since they are under going a lot of changes there's always the possibility he won't get paid. He said, "Oh well, in that case I'll just eat the charges." WHATTA GUY!! He definitely made an impression on me. If I ever have to buy another monitor, I'm calling this guy first. Anyway, while I was there he explained what the possible problem areas were for my monitor's behavior. With the monitors cover cracked (taken off) he showed me two possible fixes. One was so simple anybody could do it if they knew what to do. It had to do with a connector not seated well enough. All he did was applied a little pressure on it and the screen started blooming.... ---------------- Comments about Powermonger from C.JANES1 - Cat 9, Topic 26, Msgs 24 & 26 - from the ST Roundtable on Genie... A Warning to Anyone Interested in the "sequel" called "Powermonger"! Rumor has it that there is a sequel to Populous called "Powermonger." My wife and I purchased Powermonger for our AtariST and were disappointed with it in several ways. First, it is incorrect to think of Powermonger as a sequel to Populous. The game's play deals with guiding armies in mideval battle rather than in world creation and God vs. God conflict. There is no "raising land" here. Of course, this is OK as a type of game in itself, but don't be mislead into thinking it's a more challenging version of Populous (which the both of us love). Secondly, we wish we could lower the programmers' salary $1 every time we had to battle with the game's interface while precious game time went by. Info windows would not close and the mouse click would often be interpreted as a request to open more windows (the routine to determine if the mouse was over the "close" box is very limited.) We once wasted five minutes (count 'em 300 seconds!) just duelling with these rebellious windows while our army was ambushed! Gee, what fun! Other "playability" flaws included moronic minions who couldn't nego- tiate their way out of a paper bag let alone around lakes or streams. This is an important point to make because the game will eventually require you to control several separate armies via slow carrier pidgeons. This locomotion incompetence greatly detracts from the enjoyment of the game. In closing, we'd like to say that this is not (in our opinion) a "sequel" to Populous although, on its own, it is an interesting concept. Also, using Bullfrog's own words, "if the game ever stops the magic is broken." In this game, the battle you will have just trying to interface with the game kills any hope of creating "magic." Two thumbs down for Powermonger. Reply from Drew Kerr... "Powermonger" was never seen as a sequel to Populous (Populous II is). They may be spiritually related, and look superficially a little bit alike, but they are completely different games...I personally think it's quite something!... If you have some patience, there are some excellent strategies to getting around this game and conquering other armies.... ---------------- Comments about Knightmare from R.EIDAL - Cat. 9, Topic 9, Msg. 19 - from the ST Roundtable on Genie... Hey! Knightmare's out! I just got a copy of it last night and began playing it. Unfortunately I only had an hour or two to play, but so far I like it a lot. The interface is very similar to Captive, so if you played that game you'll have no trouble with Knightmare. The way you use weapons is a little different, some weapons have more than one way to use them. It's more of a quest game than is Captive, and there are four quests to solve. The graphics are better than they were in Captive, and although all my adventuring has been out of doors so far, the atmosphere is just as claustrophobic. Apparently there is a tele- vision show in England titled Knightmare, and this game has some sort of tie-in with it. I think this game is going to be pretty difficult. I'm stuck already - four trolls are after me and I can't kill them no matter what I do. At the beginning of the game it's VERY easy to die. Even the cute little rabbits hopping around are Killer Bunnies. Looks like Knightmare will have many, many hours of play in it. If you're having trouble finding it, here's the phone number for Mindscape (in England): 0444 246333. Perhaps they can help. ---------------- Some interesting info about the STe/MegaSTe from Mike Drysdale (Team Computers) - Cat. 14, Topic 4, Msg. 47 - from the ST Roundtable on Genie... EVERY STe (again STe) is ready for TOS 2.06. Just remove the old TOS and plug in the new chips. No boards or modifications are needed. EVERY MEGA STe and TT (that's MEGAe or TT) is ready for a 1.44 (or 2.88) floppy drive. Install the Ajax chip, a 1.44 (or 2.88) mech, and flip dip switch #7. Yes it will still read, write, format, 360K (single-sided) and 720K (double-sided) disks as well as other perverse and extended format disks (IBM, SPECTRE, Mac, Etc). If you have an ST or STe (the older stuff), adding a 1.44 floppy will will much more complex. AND MAY NOT BE POSSIBLE AT ALL. Owners of older STs (NOT e's) who want TOS 2.06, go directly to Codehead (do not pass GO). If you want to have some fun right now, MEGAe owners ONLY, flip dip switch #7 (it's under the hard drive) and go to format. ---------------- From John J. (Atari Explorer) - Cat. 14, Topic 30, Msg. 54 - from the ST Roundtable on Genie... The "wonderful MIDI issue of Atari Explorer" will be released a week prior to the NAMM show (i.e. around January 10th) to a select group of music stores and specialty dealers. The rest of the MIDI issue will be released at NAMM and thereafter (which is proper, since it's a February issue). Meanwhile, on or about January 5th, the wonderful "Terminator" issue of Atari Explorer will be released. Issue contents include: "T2 Portfolio" -- a philosophico-technical exegesis of James Cameron's vision for high tech and moral responsibility. "Liquid Metal" -- an interview with Lee Seiler on Terminator 2 SFX, with a tutorial on how to create "liquid metal" weirdo-creepo sci-fi effects on your ST. Then, for you Star Trek, The Undiscovered Country fans, we have an interview with "Walter Koenig, Atari User". Way cool -- he's a bright guy and has had a really interesting career. And for music/movie fans, we've got extended interviews with Dave and Don Grusin (the former wrote the score for Bette Midler's new film: For the Boys). Tech folks will enjoy the premieres of TWO new programming series: The first, by BJ Gleason, on "Portfolio Programming" (*everything* you ever wanted to know ...), and another, by Steve Yelvington, on "Serial Programming," in which we'll eventually cover EVERYTHING on THAT subject. Also look for extended reviews of CardFile 3, Dorothy Brumleve's KIDPRGS, D.E.K.A., Data Diet, eSTeem PILOT, and P.A.M. And then, for you just general Atari tech fans, we've got THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE EXPLANATION OF HOW THE ST BOOK WAS DESIGNED, STRAIGHT FROM THE MOUTH OF THE GUY WHO DESIGNED IT (Tracy Hall). So relax, folks. Don't worry. Be happy. Sure, we've had some production problems, but they're over now. ---------------- Some helpful hints from John Spande for you TT/MegaSTe owners - Cat. 28, Topic 2, Msg. 85 - from the ST Roundtable on Genie... I'd like to pass along a helpful hint to those of you who are concerned about putting heavy monitors on top of the TT/MSTE but haven't space to put it elsewhere. (I believe the Codeheads traced some problems with their TT to flexing of the motherboard due to weight on the case). I discovered a CPU Stand made by FELLOWES (stock no 40704) which I got a OfficeMax for $20. It is welded steel rod construction (like shopping carts) which is very sturdy and allows good access from all sides (large cartridges might call for a minor modification with a hacksaw). Best of all it clears the top of the computer by just 1/8 inch so overall it would raise your monitor only about 1/2 inch over what it would be if you put it directly on the computer. Overall it is about 3 inches wider than a TT/MSTE. ---------------- A person asked about 2.88 meg floppy drives for the ST. Here's a reply from Norm Weinress - Cat. 4, Topic 17, Msg. 42 - from the ST Roundtable on Genie... 2.88 meg drives are still very expensive and so is the media. It is not likely tht they will be competitive for at least a year. On top of that, there is no way to extend the capability of the older ST line to handle handle them. Maybe (if you have lots of money) you want a 20 MByte floppy (they exist), although at that point you've got a low capacity Syquest. ---------------- Have you wondered what's happened to the '030 accelerator from Fast Tech? Here's Jim Allen - Cat. 4, Topic 11, Msg. 83 - from the ST Roundtable on Genie... The marketing effort on the 030, other than some noise here on GEnie, has been concentrated on direct marketing to the most likely customers...professional Dynacadd and Calamus users. We've made an arrangement with ISD, and their registered customers get a big price break. But even with the break this kind of product is a serious purchase and has appeal only to those who can justify the expense. To folks using Calamus and Dynacadd in business, the savings of time, the 5-10 fold increase in productivity, can be translated directly into dollars. That's why we haven't been plastering ads all over, and whooping up a storm...that's not how you reach the intended customers. We have been shipping 030's, and have a healthy backlog, principly in Germany where we've gone after the lino-type houses with direct mail efforts. The big $1199 to $1999 board is just not a "mass-appeal" product. The Tiny030 will be, and I'm working with another company to make the board an Atari/Amiga device, with some cost reduction measures taken. It just takes time to get projects like this off the ground. I'm looking forward to the Tiny030 being a big hit, and filling in the space btween the $379 T25 and the $1199 T030-cache only. In this business, with an expensive unit like an 030, there are alot of folks interested, but only a certain percentage will actually buy. We're concentrating active marketing on the most likely customer base. But folks listening who need a T030 can have one ;-) ---------------- Until next week..... __________________________________________________________ > GEMULATOR? STR Spotlight "Why emulate the ST?" ======================== WHY DO I NEED THE GEMULATOR? ============================ Compiled by Michael Lee Here's a post about the Gemulator by Darek M. (Brasoft) - from Category 19, Topic 15, Msg. 1 - from the ST Roundtable on Genie... As many of you know, we are developing an emulator allow Atari ST software to run on PC clones. You may be wondering why this topic is in this category, why not in the PC roundtable. Well, considering that the whole idea of Gemulator was suggested to me by Atari ST users, and it will be used by existing Atari ST users to run ST software, it seems only appropriate to discuss it in an ST roundtable. Since only people attending my demo at the Chicago Atarifest got to see the 8- bit and ST emulators, a lot of rumors have been circulating about Gemulator. I would like answer questions people may have about it in this topic. In the Novemeber issue of the BraSoft News, there was an Emulator Survey which asked various questions about your potential use of Gemulator. A lot of good ideas and suggestions have resulted from this survey, and so I'd like to continue this by asking for your input regarding Gemulator. I'd like to start off by answering some of the most frequently asked questions about Gemulator. Q: why emulate the ST? A: from a computer junkie's point of view, my answer is, "because it's there". This was the same reason why I wrote the 8-bit emulator. it was a challenge in programming. With 5 years of experience writing 6502 emulators, it was time to move up to emulating the 68000. There are real reasons from the users point of view why this is de- sirable as well. First, the PC clones of today in general have faster CPUs and better graphics and larger disk drives than the ST. After all, the ST has hardly been improved upon since 1985, while PCs and Macs have leapfrogged in power and dropped in price. Early attempts at making the ST and PC compatible, such as PC Ditto, didn't prove very successful. Software only emulation of the 8088 on the ST was slow, and the ST's graphics were unable to emulate EGA and VGA graphics, not to mention simple 80 column text mode. However, by reversing that, i.e. emulating the 68000 on a PC, you can take advantage of the PC's ability to emulate the 68000 in real time, and to emulate the ST's graphics without loss of quality. That is the whole idea behind Gemulator, and through email and at Atari shows people have been coming up to me and saying "you wrote the 8-bit emulator, why don't you do an ST emulator." And so I am. Q: is it hardware or software? A: Gemulator emulates the 68000 and the ST's hardware entirely in software. The only hardware required is a plug in card that contains two sets of sockets for ROM chips. You plug in one set of TOS ROMS, or two sets (i.e. two different versions of TOP), or, depending on how compatibility with Mac emulators goes, a set of TOS ROMs and a set of Mac ROMs. Q: wouldn't it be faster to put a 68000 chip on a card? A: yes, in some cases, but this would increase the cost of the product, as well as place a limit on features. By emulating the 68000 in software you gain two big advantages. First, the 68000 can be emulated at full speed on a 386, and on a 486 emulation is at about double the speed of the 68000. As PC clones get even faster and cheaper, this will allow Gemulator to run even faster. Putting an 8 MHz 68000 on a card puts a limit on the speed. The other advantage is that if you run Gemulator on a multitasking OS like Windows, you can multitask several different 68000 programs at once. Again, a hardware implementation would mean only running one ST program at any one time, and you would have to use something like MultiGEM or Revolver to fake multitasking. However, a software implementation of the emulator has one drawback, which depending on your point of view is or is not a drawback. Gemulator requires a 386 or a 486 to run on. It will not run on an 8088 or 286. The results of the Emulator Survey so far show that less than 10% of the respondants have such a machine. Everyone else either already has a 386 or is going to buy a 386. The 8088 died off years ago with 6502 based machines. Q: how compatible is Gemulator? A: that remains to be seen. It does not yet fully emulate all of the ST's hardware, so only some 68000 code runs on it right now. However, because the ST and PC have such similar graphics, and virtually identical disk formats, many of the compatibility problems that I faced with the 8-bit emulator will not exist. The problem with Xformer was that the 8-bit disks and ST disks were not compatible at all, and the 8 bit was also capable of generating better graphics with more colors that the ST, not to mention sound. Q: what about sound and MIDI? A: I am evaluating the Sound Blaster Pro card. It supports stereo sound and MIDI, and so PCs equipped with such a card would be able to emulate the ST's sound and MIDI capabilities. Like I said in the newsletter, I am not commiting to this yet. Ok, enough for now, I'll let someone else put in a few words. - Darek @ BraSoft """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" IMPORTANT NOTICE! ================= As a reader of STReport International Online Magazine, you are entitled to take advantage of a special DELPHI membership offer. For only $29.95 ($20 off the standard membership price!), you will receive a lifetime subscrip- tion to DELPHI, a copy of the 500-page DELPHI: THE OFFICIAL GUIDE and over $14 worth of free time. NOTE: Special offers can be found in your favorite Atari magazines: START CURRENT NOTES ST INFORMER ATARI INTERFACE MAGAZINE SIGNING UP WITH DELPHI ====================== Using a personal computer and modem, members worldwide access DELPHI services via a local phone call JOIN -- DELPHI -------------- 1. Dial 617-576-0862 with any terminal or PC and modem (at 2400 bps, dial 576-2981). 2. At the Username prompt, type JOINDELPHI. 3. At the Password prompt enter STREPORT. For more information, call DELPHI Member Services at 1-800-544-4005, or at 617-491-3393 from within Massachusetts or from outside the U.S. DELPHI is a service of General Videotex Corporation of Cambridge, Mass. SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT -------------------- Beginning September 1, 1990, DELPHI will begin offering a new plan that will save you money! The new plan is called the 20/20 Advantage Plan and it features 20 hours online for just $20 a month! The $20 is a monthly fee that covers your first 20 hours online via direct dial into one of DELPHI's two direct-access lines, or via a special Tymnet 20/20 Access code. It also gets you additional hours at just $1.20 per hour. And you get free access to several services on DELPHI as part of the Advantage Perks. Other telecom services may have additional charges. Canadian Tymnet users have an additional telecom charge. Office Time access (7 a.m. to 7 p.m., weekdays) may have an additional charge. And of course, other restrictions may apply. But this is still an amazing deal! For more information, contact DELPHI at 1-800-544-4005 and ask for Member Services. DELPHI- It's getting better all the time! """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > QUICK ST STR FOCUS "THE TRANSITION" ================== CODEHEAD AND QUICK ST ===================== Compiled by Michael Lee Here's a post about Quick ST by John Eidsvoog (CodeHead Software) - from Category 32, Topic 31, Msg. 102 - from the ST Roundtable on Genie... It seems that we need to spell out exactly what obligations we have regarding Quick ST, and what obligations we don't have. On January 1st, 1992, CodeHead Software will begin handling future development and support of Quick ST. This will include doing our best to fix all bugs and improve the software in any way we can. We will update previous versions of Quick ST and any version of Turbo ST for $20 and proof of original purchase. Send in your QST disk or Turbo ST disk with $20 and we will send you an update. If you do not have your original disk, contact us and we'll try to help you. The initial version of the program we'll be releasing will be 3.06. This version will be essentially the same as 3.05 developed by Darek, but will contain a couple of bug fixes to solve a crashing problem with FSMGDOS and Calligrapher. If is up to each individual to determine whether the upgrade is worth $20 to him. Future plans for Quick ST include follow-up bug fixes, further possible speed improvements, interface design, and possibly some other surprises. It is not known at this time how updates will be handled for those who update from 3.06. As always, we will attempt to be fair. CodeHead Software assumes NO RESPONSIBILITY for losses or unfilled orders incurred while Branch Always Software was handling Quick ST. ---------------------------------------------------- In light of the comments and attitudes we've viewed lately from some users, we've actually had some second thoughts about following through with the take-over of Quick ST. It seems that some of the customers of Branch Always are not aware of the way we do business at CodeHead Software. Perhaps this is due to the history of Quick ST, which started out as a shareware program and then was sold commercially at $19.95. Support for software often parallel its cost. Even at its current price of $34.95, Quick ST will be the cheapest program in the CodeHead catalog (along with G+Plus and CodeHead Utilities). But we will still treat it as one of our own programs, including accepting suggestions and bug reports and responding to user questions in a timely fashion and treating them with respect. In turn, we expect the owners of Quick ST to treat us with the same respect. Do not complain about previous experiences over which we have no control. If you have bug reports, offer them as factual, un- emotional, well-documented reports that will help us to determine the cause of the problem. If you have suggestions, let us know, in a polite way. If these simple guidelines are followed, I think Quick ST will have found a new and permanent home where it can grow to match the high standards of CodeHead Software. ________________________________________________________ > SCANLITE STR Review "...much needed and LONG overdue.." =================== SCANLITE V1.10 THE SCANNING ACCESSORY/PROGRAM from Dr.Bobware by Doyle C. Helms (STReport STaff Editor) Scanlite is a much needed and LONG overdue program for the Atari ST/TT computers. Before the advent of Scanlite, hand scanner users were limited to one major piece of software that would allow a hand scanner to be used. Touch-Up. Sure, the 'other' hand scanner manufacturers included their own scanning software but it was limited at best. With Dr. Bobs Scanlite accessory ALL the major hand scanners are supported in one package. Documentation ------------- The included documentation is about the shortest and most concise set of instructions I have seen in a commercial piece of software. The program disk comes in a glossy folded piece of cardboard with the instructional documentation printed inside. Is the Dr. Cheap? NO! The required instructions are ALL there and it would be a waste of good paper to have included anymore verbose documents. There are some included graphics that point out essential menus and options with their appropriate uses. A few extra notes and hints are included on the disk as "README" files. Performance ----------- The program performs as advertised. This program/acc is not a do-everything-under-the-sun nor is it advertised as one. This prg/acc is a accessory that allows a user to use a hand scanner and then save the image for further manipulation in a DTP program or whatever. Scanlite does not have any editing abilities (ergo- ScanLITE). Scanlite allows hand scanning from the MIGRAPH hand scanner, DATASCAN, GENSCAN and the GOLDEN IMAGE scanner. Once Scanlite is invoked (either as an ACC or proram) the user is presented with a selection menu which allows the choice of the DPI to scan with. The choices are 100, 200, 300 and 400 DPI. The user also has the option to begin the scan, save the scanned image, exit the program or go to a configuration menu. The configuration menu is really important when you first install Scanlite. After the initial set-up the configuration option is rarely used. Important note; you MUST use the configuration options the first time or you will experience severe emotional problems that may require psychological help to avoid further hair pulling. Let me digress for a moment. My first encounter with Scanlite was not a joyous occasion. Upon opening the newly acquired software package in which I received THE Tray and COALESCE(ah, but that is another review...). I slipped the disk in drive A and copied the appropriate files to my hard drive. I then rebooted (to install Scanlite as an ACC) and thought I was well on my way to scanning nirvana. I called up Scanlite and then hit the "SCAN" selection on the menu and nothing happens. The scanner does NOT even grunt or twinkle. Hmmm...? I then try again and again and again. Nothing. Where did I put Dr. Bobs phone number? I then go to old faithful (Touch-Up) to ensure my scanner was still operational. Everything worked fine. Gotta be a bug in Scanlite! Right? Wrong! I then got out the neat little documentation that accompanied the program and began to read. The doc's mentioned the configuration and setting up the PROPER scanner for proper operation. If the proper scanner is not chosen then it will not work! Simple enough. Well after clearing the hair from the keyboard which I had removed from my head moments before I called up Scanlite and selected the configuration menu. The default scanner was set for Golden Image. I then set the selection for Migraph and returned to the main menu. I selected SCAN and viola! Positive results. Moral: ALWAYS READ THE DOCUMENTATION FIRST! I'm one of the brightest and most intelligent people I know (barring Carl Sagan of course) and I let this happen to me. Ashamed is an understatement. If you believe the last statement please call me at 1-800-BUY-SWAMP here in Florida anytime. Now that I have thoroughly embarrassed myself and shown my inability to read the simplest of instructions... allow me to continue. The configuration menu also includes selections for the following: 1. Save the scanned image in compressed format or use the standard format. I haven't used a program yet that requires the "standard" format. All programs so far have been compatible with the compressed format. 2. Time out setting.This allows the user to set the amount of time the scanner will allow for inactivity before switching off. The timer setting is based on a 8Mhz speed. So if you have a 16Mhz machine, a 30 second setting will be in reality a 15 second time out value. I think you get the flow of reason. 3. "W" or "B" setting. This setting allows for the user to select the background color of the scan, White or Black. 4. "O". Video plane setting to display the image scan on multiplane (color) systems. 5. Lastly, you choose to save these settings for use the next time Scanlite is called. There is also a second configuration program that is run external of Scanlite. The program is called SL_PREP.PRG. This program is for configuring the memory buffer that is used by Scanlite. The user is NOT required to use the buffer set-up, but many applications use up all available memory and none is left for Scanlite ACC. In other words the buffer set-up will set aside a predetermined amount of memory that Scanlite will reserve for itself regardless of what the "other" applications may do. Usefulness ---------- I have found the program to be extremely useful for general scanning for pleasure and for serious DTP applications. I have found NO flaws (bugs). I have been using the program for several weeks with many applications. Dr. Bob is to be commended for this fine piece of programming. Scanlite has special hooks to allow communication with a sister program "COALESCE". This "hook" allows COALESCE to receive the scanned image from Scanlite, whether called as an ACC or program for use in combining to half-scans into one seamless image. Conclusion ---------- Rating: 10 (out of 10). Recommendation: Buy it! (if you have a hand scanner) The program/ACC was tested on a Mega St 2 w/TOS 1.4 and on a Mega STE4 w/ TOS 2.05 - Note for MSTE users, TURN OFF the cache if using the 16Mhz mode. This applies not only to Scanlite but to Touch-Up and COALESCE also. Contact: Dr. Bobware 180 N. Hazeltine Ave. Campbell, OH. 44405-1024 (216) 743-4712 OR WizWorks P.O. Box 45 Girard, OH. 44420 (216) 539-5623 ___________________________________________________ > STR Portfolio News & Information Keeping up to date... ================================ THE ATARI PORTFOLIO FORUM ========================= On CompuServe by Judith Hamner 72257,271 BJ Gleason has uploaded ver 1.1 of his Pbread program. PREAD1.ZIP offers searching and a built-in help screen. ALICE.ZIP, also uploaded by BJ, contains the complete text of Alice in Wonderland in Pbread format. David Stewart has uploaded UFOREA.ZIP which contains two more Pbread files for the entertainment of UFO fans. Another entertaining offering comes from BJ. OPCODE.COM is in Pbread format and gives some amusing variations for three letter machine codes. This should be a hit with assembly language fans. Also on the light side is a fortune cookie program from BJ Gleason. COOKIE.COM will give you a dose of wisdom every time you re-boot if placed in your autoexec file. PFDIAL.ZIP is a dialing queue manager written by Robert L. George. This program will allow you to dial and edit telephone numbers. CRYPT.ZIP by Don Messerli will be a boon to Port users who carry sensitive data. The file contains editor hooks to encrypt and decrypt documents. It uses passwords and is more secure than the previously uploaded CODE utility by David Stewart. In response to a user request, we have TIMECA.ZIP. This worksheet will do running calcualtions of time in minutes and seconds. PowerBasic users will appreciate BJ Gleason's POWED.ZIP. This file contains an editor for PowerBasic. It allows editing and compiling of Portfolio programs on the PC. If you are looking for old gold in the forum libraries, LIBINF.TXT could help. This file is a list of the most popular files in the library, based on download count. Also included is a scorecard of the most prolific uploaders in the forum. Several useful programs have been uploaded recently. SCRMOD.ZIP by David Stewart will display your current settings for external and internal screen modes. TIMESE.COM is a PowerBasic program which will dial the Naval Observatory in Washington DC and set your system clock to the correct time. WORLD.ZIP contains a world map in PGC format and a Pbasic program to display the map and print the current system time. ALARM.ZIP is an alarm clock for the Portfolio. This program by BJ Gleason will keep the Port running until the user exits it. JOG12.ZIP by Tim Salami does simple calculations for joggers. MKPG12.ZIP contains a new version of the PGX creation program by Don Messerli. The program creates animations to be viewed with PGfliX. Among the new features are partial second delays, random delays, and repeat features. We have several new animations uploaded this past week. TREE.ZIP by Don Messerli is a simple Christmas greeting. Don Thomas has re-done his EYES.ZIP, PM.ZIP, and T2.ZIP to take advantage of the latest features of MKPGX and PGfliX. David Stewart has written CGASHO.ZIP to allow those with CGA monitors to view .PGC and .PGF files on their desktop machines. PA08.TXT contains issue #8 of Portable Addiction, uploaded by BJ Gleason. The programming marathon has finally ended. Congratulations to marathoners BJ Gleason, Don Messerli, and David Stewart for an excellent job. They exceeded the goal of having at least one program added to the forum library every day in November and December. As a result, the forum library now contains over 600 files. RESET.ZIP is a utility by David Stewart which will allow you to reset the default file for one application without having to delete permdata and lose the other applications'. PSSWRD.ARC is a password security for the Port by Jim Ness. It will require a password to exit once the program has been started. This will restrict access to the Port. It can be run from the autoexec.bat to protect in the event of a reboot. PLIB.ZIP by BJ Gleason is a collection of PowerBasic routines that allow access to special Port functions. ASCII.ZIP is a code table which would be of use to programmers. The collection of PGC graphics files keeps growing. TARGET.PGC is a humorous composition by Don Thomas of Atari. PATTRN.ZIP and PATT2.ZIP are collections of background patterns by Don Messerli. ASL.ZIP is a Pbasic program from BJ Gleason to show the letters in the American Sign Language. Don Messerli has also provided a collection of animal pictures in ANIMAL.ZIP. Don Messerli has created a new version of PCSHOW to view PGC files on your desktop. PCSHO1.ZIP supports CGA as well as EGA and VGA. Atari ST owners will be able to adapt Degas images to the Port with STGRAB.ARC. The program will also display PGC images. STCHEK.ARC will check the PGC files to see that they are clean and optimally compressed. From the workshop of BJ Gleason comes SF.ZIP. Showfile 1.0 is a file viewer which serves as a front end for PREAD. This stand alone version can be used for viewing normal text files on the Port. There is a good library of files available in Pread format. BJ has uploaded DOSINT.COM, a DOS interrupt listing. PEMPIR.COM is a Space Epic. DICT2.ARC is a Pread compressed version of the spelling dictionary, POORSPl.ARC. SNARK.COM contains Lewis Carroll's "Hunting of the Snark". "Through the Looking Glass" is in GLASS.ZIP. Both uploaded by BJ Gleason. On a humorous note, MURPHY.ZIP contains Murphy's laws applied to computers and HIST.ZIP is a history of the world as told by students' test papers. Both were uploaded by Don Messerli. George Campbell has an introduction to DOS in DOSDOC.COM. Two new games arrived this week. Hangman is contained in two files: HANGEM.COM and HANGEM.TXT. The text file can be edited to create your own word lists. FINDME.COM will appear to fans of "Where's Waldo". You have to seek out the unchanging letter out of 128 on the rapidly changing display. David Hayden's comparison of 5 Palmtop computers from the December Mobile Office is available. PLMTOP.COM is in Pread format. PLMTOP.TXT is an ASCII version. Marty Mankins has also uploaded a comparison of several palmtops. See COMPLM.TXT for his opinions. Robert Kelsoe has uploaded DISPTM.COM, a PowerBasic program to display the current time and give an audible countdown to each minute. This is a useful companion to the time setting program TIMSE.COM which will set the Port from the Naval Observatory's atomic clock. RLE.ZIP is a viewer for RLE weather maps by BJ Gleason. Another program of interest to pilots is WCA.COM. This is a PowerBasic version of his flight computer. David Stewart has written a trig program. TRIG.ZIP will give the sine, cosine and tangent of an angle. If things get a little too quiet, HORN.ZIP will play the Sailor's Hornpipe through the Port's speaker. To really impress people in the line at the gas station use your Port with LOTTO.ARC to pick the winning numbers for your ticket. """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > STReport's Editorial Page "Saying it like it really is." ========================= From the Editorial Dep't. ------------------------- Toasting in the New Year ======================== by Dana P. Jacobson It's hard to believe that 1992 is here already. I hope that the start of this new year finds everyone healthy; it seems that most of the STReport staff has been down and out with the flu lately. I think that last week was the first time in ages that an issue didn't see the light of day. I initially wanted to make a few predictions for the new year, but somehow I couldn't see myself come up with too many. I'm sure we'd all like to know ahead of time how Atari will fare in 1992, how the users will fare, what we can expect, etc. etc. Maybe my optimism has waned a bit; or I've adopted a wait and see attitude - I really don't know yet. So, what I thought appropriate at this time, instead, was to take a few topics from last year and make some recommendations or observations so that perhaps a new year can help to provide some insight as to how things can progress smoother. Throughout this past year, there has been a lot of public and behind the scenes controversy about some of the content of STReport. STReport will continue to be for the Atari user. If this means that controversial editorials continue, then that's what will be done. Some readers will call this Atari-bashing, but it really isn't. _Someone_ has to bring controversial issues to light; it's pointless to attempt to maintain a rose-colored attitude. I find that controversy is an effective means to affect change. It might not happen right away, but it will happen. There has already been some behind the scenes attempts (mostly positive) to try and affect some changes in STReport. I'm sure that we'll hear a lot more as time goes on - we do listen! Perhaps our editorials will take on a slightly different tact, but I doubt we'll see a 180-degree turnaround. In an editorial earlier in the year, I explained the attitudes dealing with "killing the messenger". We'll continue to report, and editorialize" about those events, people, etc. that we find to be informative to our readers. Let's hope that the news for 1992 will be all positive so STReport can write it that way! There was a lot of discussion in the past year about user groups, and user group shows. I hope to learn in the near future that we'll see a resurgence of user groups and user group activities. I hope to hear that Atari finds a way to free Bob Brodie up enough so that he can help out in this area. Last I heard, Bob still had that "role", among his many others. Perhaps Bob can initiate an "official" Atari user group newsletter on a monthly or bi-monthly basis to keep user groups informed of current topics related to user groups. Or, another idea might be a regular column specially directed for those user groups who might want to include it in their regular newsletters. Before Start magazine folded, I believe Bob had started a regular, albeit short-lived, column. Maybe it can be resurrected for user groups. I expect that I'll get some E-Mail from Bob thanking me for adding on a few more "duties" to his already jam-packed schedule! Sorry, Bob. User group shows are probably one of the biggest events that the users have come to depend. The prospects for 1992 need to be addressed so planners know where they stand and they can begin the early stages of putting on another event. So far, I haven't seen any public messages that any show for this year has been tentatively scheduled. The user group show has always been a successful event where users and developers can get together and talk, sell, buy, meet, party, etc. Let's hope that this trend continues this year. This is an election year, so I would imagine that the economy will make a miraculous "recovery". If this happens, perhaps we'll see more dealers and more (and new) products in the near future. Perhaps in its infinite wisdom, Atari will find the means to let the general populace know that the Atari line of computers does exist, and that it's a very worthwhile investment. I also hope that our developer base remains successful, and grows. Speaking of developers, one thing that I would like to accomplish this year is to inform our readers who our developers are. And in addition, who the people at Atari are. I know that most of you know the names and most of the products, but do we know _who_ these people are? If it can be arranged effectively, I plan to talk with various developers, people at Atari, magazine editors/staff, and some of the highly visible vendors who you may want to learn more about. Wouldn't it be interesting to learn more about such folks as Jack Tramiel, Bob Brodie, the CodeHeads, Jim "Fast Tech" Allen, John Barnes, and more? If there's someone you'd like to learn more about, let me hear your suggestion. The only stipulation that I have is that this person(s) must be an active (and "visible") member of the Atari community. I can reached on Delphi (DPJ), on GEnie (D.JACOBSON2), Toad Hall BBS (617-567-8642) or the Bounty Atari ST BBS (904-786-4176). If all else fails, drop me a letter to STReport at the address listed at the top of this issue! I think we'll all find these "series" interesting. Most importantly, I hope that we all find 1992 to be an interesting and fruitful year, both personally and Atari-related. We at STReport will continue to strive to keep you informed of all the news and events, directly and indirectly Atari related, for the coming year. I hope that you'll join us and make this a joint endeavor. Until next time... """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > STR Mail Call "...a place for folks to be heard" ============= STReport's MailBag ================== From the FNET Network Conf : Atari 16/32 Bit Msg# : 25140/25170 Lines: Extended Read: 2 Sent : Dec 26, 1991 at 9:33 AM Recv : Dec 28, 1991 To : Ralph Mariano From : Top Gun at TOP GUN SYSTEMS #1-NODE #475 Subj : Re: <25070> TRUTH! In reply to: - Sure! Atari NEEDS to sue. Atari SHOULD sue. In fact, Atari should - clobber _anybody_ who has, does and might bad-mouth them. Yup, that - type of thinking falls right in line with the "overall" perception the - computer marketplace has envisioned of Atari... Sour Grapes! Darek - Mihocka has been supporting the Atari platform from the very beginning. - He has been a strong holdout in our area... as opposed to other devs who - "bailed" early etc.. WOW RALPH!... What a guy! Been around since God was a child in the ATARI arena...been an ATARI CLUB PRESIDENT back in the 8 through the ST days... Been a developer with them... been to just about all the shows (COMDEX) here in Vegas since I can't remember how long... and I want to add a VERY BIG 'DITTO' to your comments... I have some inside information I received at the show this year... 1. - Yes, Atari has apparently been out to butcher the little guy (dealer/user/and all) since TRAMIEL's took over the company. Didn't use to be that way when Nolan Bushnell started the company, but is definitely true today. 2. - Atari has been after the $$$ since Tramiel took over and remember the first thing he did when he purchased the games division? Fired 800 people! SAD huh? Oh well $$$ is the key. 3. - Atari moved systems hardware sales to the Europeans because of the strength of the $$$ over there, while promising to release NEW hardware into the US market (ya right!), and then when the hardware wouldn't pass FCC, the promises went out the window and the hardware went to Europe. 4. - THIS YEAR'S PROMISES FOR NEXT YEAR! In addition to the new graphics gamers, Atari SAYS they will be introducing the 040 as well as about 3 more NEW machines still "on the benches". 5. - Atari is DYING for DEVELOPERS for the NEW stuff, and guess where they are probably going to get them... (remember ya gotta have hardware!), that's why they are psuedo pampering the US market developers, in hopes of trying to bring this market back up, while still pumping in Europe. 6. - Sad thing is that I don't believe the users (LONG TIMERS) can stand much more of this, because we are NOT STUPID! The real downside to this is that we have one of the FINEST machines EVER built in ANY arena, just look at the overall architecture... and we have to be held captive by the very entity WE CREATED with OUR support systems... not through any grace of ATARI... SAD SITUATION but true... WE ARE THE ONES HOLDING THE US MARKET IN PLACE... not ATARI! I AM AN ATARIAN 'FOREVER'! ... but can someone do something about the CORPORATION? <little grin> TOP GUN SYSTEMS #1-LAS VEGAS (NODE #475) 702-363-6066 From the FNET Network Conf : Atari Technical Msg# : 9089/9092 Lines: 10 Read: 2 Sent : Jan 02, 1992 at 11:59 AM To : Scott Standiford From : Electron Beam at Bloom County 75 Silicon Valley Subj : Re: <9087> COMPANIES AND MISTAKES In reply to: - Am I being overly optomistic or un-realistic? Possibly, but so what? Yes you are being overly optimistic and unrealistic. And the 'so what' comes down to simple behavior modification. By apologizing for and ignoring Atari's mistakes you are rewarding their incompetent management for their behavior. You, like all of us, want them to improve. The only way we can contribute toward that end as individuals is to not reward them for their incompetence. They need to learn from their mistakes. And if nobody points them out they never will... From Delphi Atari ST Area 31-DEC 00:12 General Information TT RAM boards From: TURBONICK To: ALL Hi folks, Last month at the Chicago Computerfest, I bought a TT, but did not take it home with me because I also bought extra RAM for it (2MB of ST RAM and 4MB TT RAM), and the dealer said he would not be able to get the daughterboard(s) until after the show. Well, I still don't have my TT. I talked with the dealer today (actually my wife did because I have a bit of laryngitis), and he says that he still does not have the boards. He also said that some Atari sales guy said that they have the boards. Why aren't they shipping them? Does anyone know? Have these boards been in short supply? 'Course, with the amount of clutter around here, I don't know where I could set up the TT anyway :-/ (I have computer desks on order - yes, even for the old 8-bit, my wife will be happy...) Nick """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STReport's Staff The regulars and this week's contributors! ---------------- Publisher - Editor ------------------ Ralph F. Mariano PC DIVISION AMIGA DIVISION MAC DIVISION ----------- -------------- ------------ Robert Retelle Charles Hill R. ALBRITTON STReport Staff Editors: ----------------------- Michael Arthur Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr. Dana P. Jacobson Lucien Oppler Brad Martin Judith Hamner John Szczepanik Dan Stidham Joseph Mirando Doyle C. Helms Contributing Correspondents: ---------------------------- Michael Lee Richard Covert Roger Stevens Brian Converse Oliver Steinmeier Tim Holt Andrew Learner Norman Boucher Ben Hamilton Neil Bradley Eric Jerue Ron Deal Robert Dean Ed Westhusing James Nolan Vernon W. Smith IMPORTANT NOTICE ================ Please, submit letters to the editor, articles, reviews, etc... via E-Mail to: Compuserve.................... 70007,4454 GEnie......................... ST.REPORT Delphi........................ RMARIANO BIX........................... RMARIANO FIDONET....................... 112/35 FNET.......................... NODE 350 NEST.......................... 90:19/350.0 ____________________________________________________________ > STReport CONFIDENTIAL "Reporting ABOUT Atari...not FOR Atari!" ===================== * "Rumors - Tidbits - Predictions - Observations - Hot Tips" * ======================================================== Mr. Supersnoop has been buzzing all 'round the west coast during the past two weeks. Most of what he found were indications of an "obvious and strong rebirth of Atari." He was told by one dealer in the SF Bay area; "The product flow has been greatly enhanced." "The selection of computers available would satisfy even the most demanding customer." "Dealers are once again becoming abundant nationwide and are well stocked." "The bundles (package deals) of software and hardware are moving quite well", he heard from a number of satisfied dealers. He also noted that while he was testing a new program on a brand spanking new class B TT, the TV across the room was carrying a NEW, never seen before, highly animated Atari advertisement for the "Atari Family of Fine Computers" where they emphasized "A computer for every budget!" Hmmm.. that was on a National Network TV channel! He gleefully noticed. As the ad proceeded, a loud bell began ringing in the background. Our snoop dutifully struggled to turn the TV sound down. As he reached for the control... he woke to the familiar sound of his trusty old alarm clock. Well.. some people do have "nice dreams"! Let's, all of us, hope this dream comes to pass. ____________________________________________________ > A "Quotable Quote" ================== "'TIS BETTER TO REMAIN SILENT AND BE THOUGHT A FOOL.. ...THAN TO OPEN ONE'S MOUTH AND REMOVE ALL DOUBT!" ....Ziggy "The Zigster" Zircon (Homey's best buddie) __________________________________________________________ > ABCO SPECIALS! STR InfoFile * NEW HOLIDAY Prices! MORE Products! * =========================== ** EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY! ** NOTICE: ABCO will beat or match * ANY * Invoiced price. We will NOT be undersold! ABCO COMPUTER CONSULTANTS P.O. Box 6672 Jacksonville, Florida 32236-6672 Est. 1985 _________________________________________ Voice: 904-783-3319 10 AM - 4 PM EDT BBS: 904-786-4176 12-24-96 HST FAX: 904-783-3319 12 PM - 6 AM EDT _________________________________________ HARD DISK SYSTEMS TO FIT EVERY BUDGET _________________________________________ All systems are complete and ready to use, included at NO EXTRA COST are clock/calendar and cooling blower(s). *-ALL ABCO HARD DISK SYSTEMS ARE FULLY EXPANDABLE-* (you are NOT limited to two drives) (all cables and connectors installed) - Available for all Platforms - * ICD HOST ADAPTERS USED EXCLUSIVELY * OMTI HIGH SPEED CONTROLLERS * * ICD ADSCSI+ HOST ADAPTERS * FULL SCSI COMMAND SET SUPPORTED * * SCSI EMBEDDED CONTROLLER MECHANISMS * -- QUANTUM: THE "ROLLS ROYCE" OF HARD DRIVES -- WE PAY SHIPPING & INSURANCE!!! >UPS!< (Cont. USA) Deluxe 2 bay Cabinet w/65w auto-switching PS TIME PROVEN to be the most reliable! Model Description Autopark Price ================================================== SGN4951 51Mb 24ms 3.5" Y 439.00 SGN6277 65Mb 28ms 5.25" Y 469.00 SGN1096 85Mb 28ms 5.25" Y 549.00 SQN2055 105mb 12ms 3.5" Y 599.95 SQN1296 210Mb 12ms 3.5" Y 879.00 ================================================== FULLY ASSEMBLED SCSI DRIVES DEDUCT $60.00 ADD $35.00 for 4 BAY SUPER CABINET w/250+w PS EXOTIC TOWER CABINETS AVAIALABLE Call for Info! PLEASE NOTE: The above is partial listing only! FULLY ASSEMBLED SCSI DRIVES DEDUCT $60.00 ADD $35.00 for 4 BAY SUPER CABINET w/250+w PS EXOTIC TOWER CABINETS AVAIALABLE Call for Info! PLEASE NOTE: The above is partial listing only! CPU ACCELERATOR & MEMORY UPGRADES AVAILABLE & INSTALLED >> ABCO proudly offers the fabulous 1040 & MEGA STe Computers << Call for ABCO's Introductory prices! ATARI COMPUTERS * STILL THE BEST VALUE! If you don't see what you want listed here, call us. Odds are, we either have it or, can get it for you! * GUARANTEED * AT THE BEST POSSIBLE PRICE! ** 800-562-4037 ** "We service what we sell" ****** SPECIAL - SPECIAL ****** * SYQUEST 44MB (#555) >> ABCOFILE "44" << REMOVABLE MEDIA DRIVE * - SYQUEST 44 MB DRIVE - ICD ST ADSCSI PLUS H/A - ICD Utility Software - 3' DMA Cable - Fan & Clock - Multi-Unit Power Supply (1) 44 MB Syquest Cart. --->> SPECIAL! NOW ONLY __$ 645.00__ <<--- **** SCSI UNITS -> ONLY $549.00 **** WE PAY SHIPPING & INSURANCE! >UPS!< (Cont. USA) COMPLETELY ASSEMBLED AND READY TO RUN! Cart and Utility Software Included! EXTRA CARTS: $ 74.50 DRIVE MECH ONLY: $ 349.95 ****** SPECIAL - SPECIAL ****** * TWIN SYQUEST 44MB REMOVABLE MEDIA DRIVES ... PROGRAMMER'S DELIGHT * SPECIALLY PRICED ** $995.95.00 ** Includes: * TWO * cartridges! * SYQUEST 44MB REMOVABLE MEDIA DRIVE AND HARD DRIVE COMBINATIONS * - Syquest 44 Model [555] and the following hard drives - ** 50mb SQG51S $789.00 105mb SQG105S $989.00 ** LOWBOY - STANDARD - DUAL BLOWER CABINETS CUSTOM CONFIGURATIONS AVAILABLE ** ANNOUNCING THE NEW! -> ABCO CD-ROM! ** :Special Introductory offer: ABCO CD-ROM $389.95 (limited time only) Listed above are a sampling of the systems available. Prices also reflect various cabinet/power supply configurations (over sixty configurations are available, flexibility is unlimited) * IBM - MSDOS - AMIGA - ATARI - APPLE - MACINTOSH * ALL UNITS COMPATIBLE WITH --> SUPERCHARGER - AT/PC SPEED - GCR LARGER units are available - (Custom Configurations) *>> NO REPACKS OR REFURBS USED! <<* - Custom Walnut WOODEN Cabinets - TOWER - AT - XT Cabinets - Atari SLM 804, SLM 804PCV Laser Toner Kits Memorex 2108, 5287 Oasys Laserpro 5287, 5308, Express 830, Express Series II Silver Express, Gold Express ** $41.95 shipping Included ** Atari SLM 605 Laser Toner Kits AT&T 593, CAF Laser, DSI Laser, DTP Systems, Epson EPL-6000 Facit P6060, Fontx Syslaser, Harris3M 2006, M-Tally MT905 Microtek Turbo PS, OAS Laserpro Executive, Packard Bell 9500 TEC LB 1305, Toshiba PageLaser 6 ** $41.95 shipping included ** (TWO Toner Carts Incl.) Panasonic Laser Toner Kits Panasonic KX -P 400 series, Panafax UF-750 Facimile ** $41.95 shipping included ** -- ALL TONER KITS * IN STOCK * -- * Toner Starter Kits-$62.95 * * Replacement (804) Drums-$186.95 * ABCO's Replacement Toner Advantages =================================== >> MANY other ATARI related products STOCKED << ALL POWER SUPPLIES UL APPROVED -* 12 month FULL Guarantee *- (A FULL YEAR of COVERAGE) WE PAY SHIPPING & INSURANCE! >UPS!< (Cont. USA) QUANTITY & USERGROUP DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE! _________________________________________ DEALERS and DISTRIBUTORS WANTED! please, call for details Personal and Company Checks are accepted. ORDER YOUR NEW UNIT TODAY! CALL: 1-800-562-4037 -=**=- CALL: 1-904-783-3319 Customer Orders ONLY Customer Service 9am - 8pm EDT Tues thru Sat ABCO is EXPANDING!! CALL FOR INFORMATION! GOOD NEWS! ========== ABCO Computer Consultants now has a SUPER computer goodies catalog available. Drop us a note and we will mail your copy to you! You'd be surprised at the variety of products we offer at substantial savings. Don't wait! Send for your catalog now and get the great Christmas Discount Coupons. It'll make Santa feel great about the holidays! ABCO COMPUTER CONSULTANTS ========================= P.O. BOX 6672 Jacksonville, Florida, 32205-6672 904-783-3319 """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STReport International Online Magazine Available through more than 10,000 Private BBS systems WorldWide! """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STReport "YOUR INDEPENDENT NEWS SOURCE" January 03, 1992 16/32bit Magazine copyright 1987-92 No.8.01 """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" Views, Opinions and Articles Presented herein are not necessarily those of the editors/staff, PCReport, STReport, AMReport, MCReport. Permission to reprint articles is hereby granted, unless otherwise noted. Each reprint must include the name of the publication, date, issue # and the author's name. The entire publication and/or portions therein may not be edited in any way without prior written permission. The entire contents, at the time of publication, are believed to be reasonably accurate. The editors, contributors and/or staff are not responsible for the use/misuse of infor- mation contained herein or the results obtained therefrom. """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""