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▒▒▄ ▒▒▄ ▒▒▒▒▒▄ ▒▒▒▒▒▄ ▒▒▒▒▒▒▄ ▒▒█ ▒▒█ ▒▒█▀▒▒▄ ▒▒█▀▒▒▄ ▒▒█▀▀▀▀ ▒▒█ ▒▒█ ▒▒▒▒▒█▀ ▒▒▒▒▒█▀ ▒▒▒▒▒▒▄ ▒▒▒▒█▀ ▒▒█▀▒▒▄ ▒▒█▀▒▒▄ ▀▀▀▒▒█ ▒▒█▀ ▒▒▒▒▒█▀ ▒▒▒▒▒█▀ ▒▒▒▒▒▒█ ▀▀ ▀▀▀▀▀ ▀▀▀▀▀ ▀▀▀▀▀▀ * The Virtual BBS/NET Version 5.42 (C) Roland De Graaf 1990, 1991, 1992 4246 Elisabeth Ave Holland, MI 49424 * -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Terms of Use & Registration The Virtual BBS and associated files are: Copyright (C) Roland De Graaf 1990, 1991, 1992. This Virtual BBS/NET software has been made available to you as SHAREWARE, and is provided to you as such with hope that after evaluating this software, you will join our growing family of SySops nationwide. Your possesion of this program entitles you to evaluate it for a reasonable period of time prior to registration and in NO case, shall this evaluation period go beyond 3 months without resulting in either formal registration, or discontinuation of it's use. You are encouraged to distribute VBBS/NET to others in it's original form only and under the title: VBBS542.ZIP ** The author shall not be liable for any damages arising from the use of this software, or the VirtualNET network. By using the software you agree to the above terms. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- ==*== TABLE of CONTENTS -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- SOFTWARE OVERVIEW............................... 1 VBBS INSTALLATION............................... 4 CONFIGURATION (Vconfig.exe)..................... 4 Main Config................................ 5 Channel Config............................. 6 Database Config............................ 7 Paths Config............................... 9 Security Config............................ 10 U/L D/L Protocols.......................... 10 Network Config............................. 11 Events Config.............................. 12 Control Panel Config....................... 12 Doors Config............................... 13 Voting Booth............................... 13 Random Messages............................ 13 Archive View Config........................ 13 Text sections.............................. 13 Multi-Feedback............................. 13 VBBS Diagnostics........................... 13 RUNNING VBBS.................................... 14 FIRST TIME STARTUP...............................15 WFC (Control Panel)....................... 15 CREATING THE SYSOP ACCOUNT...................... 16 Online F-keys.............................. 16 User Editor................................ 17 User Defaults.............................. 18 DEFAULT SETUP................................... 19 Main Menu.................................. 20 Local/Networked Message Bases.............. 20 E-Mail..................................... 20 Files Transfer Area........................ 20 Mutiluser Teleconferencing................. 26 Voting..................................... 26 Doors...................................... 26 Autoposts.................................. 26 Chat Screens.............................. 26 Taglines.................................. 26 QWK Offline Readers........................ 26 CUSTOMIZING VBBS................................ 27 VScripts................................... 27 Function Blocks............................ 28 Pulldown Menus............................. 29 Source Code................................ 29 VBBS OPTIMIZATION............................... 30 Use of RAMdrives........................... 30 SECURITY........................................ 31 EXPLAINATION OF FILES........................... 32 VirtualNET...................................... 33 REGISTRATION.................................... 34 THE FUTURE...................................... 35 ACKNOWLEGEMENTS................................. 36 ABOUT THE AUTHOR................................ 37 ------------------------------------------------------------- V I R T U A L B B S ------------------------------------------------------------- - 1 - VBBS Overview ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Welcome to The Virtual BBS/NET. VBBS, as it is known, is a new and fast developing Electronic Bulletin Board software designed for MS DOS compatible computers. VBBS is a very unique and powerful telecommunications tool which you will discover features nearly limitless configurability. The powerful configuration available to you is enabled in part through the use of a special telecommunications oriented script language called Vscript. Through the use of these scripts, a SysOp is easily able to achieve total "look and feel" control over VBBS by simply modifying and customizing the vscripts with any ascii editor. A built in script compiler produces code from the scripts which loads and executes very quickly. Configurable onboard databases are used to store public and private messages as well as file listings, descriptions, and other information. The number of databases, as well as their size is limited only by the size of your hard disk, and the datafields can even be used for a special database creation of your own. Although it is not necessary for a VBBS sysop to become familiar with the scripts in order to use VBBS, the heretofor unknown flexibility that is available to you, enables amazing configurability options that are limited only by your imagination. Another configuration tool which is new to the VBBS program are "Definable Function Blocks". This ingenious device allows you to actually define the function of each key presented to a user of your BBS by simple editing of an ascii textfile (see Function Blocks). VBBS is fast and is so without any loss to it's flexibility unlike normal 'fixed' code BBS software. Multiple Node, Multiple Network, VBBS is a feature laden BBS software that is undoubtably the most configurable and capable BBS program available anywhere. -2- VBBS is a Multinode BBS which simply requires a seperate commandline (bbs <channel#>), for each node you wish to run under your multitasking software or Lan. Although VBBS multitasks as well as Windows3 and Desqview will allow, and in fact includes a Desqview aware commandline switch option and PIFs for both DV and Windows, it is the author's contention that superior multitasking performance with all communication software is best acheived through the use of a LAN at this time. VBBS can be run standalone, or as a door from inside virtualy ANY other BBS software or matrix logon. (wwiv sysops please see VWWIVSYS.DOC) VBBS creates chain.txt, door.sys and dorinfox.def formats for doors, and it releases all but 18k of Ram (shrinks out of memory) for all doors as well as events, freeing up more memory for other programs and multitasking. VirtualNET, the name of the VBBS Network, is a standard feature of VBBS and is extremely easy to set up and use. It uses Zmodem and optionally, the new bi-directional HS-Link protocol to transmit compressed mail packets, providing maximum speed and efficiency. VirtualNET, nearly famous for it's software support, openly welcomes all, and you are encouraged to come online as a new VirtualNET node at any time. In addition to VirtualNET, VBBS is completely compatible with QWK Format networks, Fido, WWIVnet and WWIVLink. (see NETGUIDE.DOC) Above all else, VBBS is a BBS software in motion. There is a certain excitement in it's continuing development that is unmatched within the BBS community. It is hoped that if you are now installing VBBS for the first time, this experience will lead you to become part of that motion, a part of our developing VirtualNET family, and a part of what is sure to be a bright future for this remarkable new program. -3- Some of the current BBS features in VBBS include: - Extremely easy setup - Versions supporting up to 64 users online available (SHAREWARE version supports up to 4 users online) - Zmodem, Zmodem Batch and HS-Link downloads and uploads - Automatically adds Zipcomnt.txt to uploads - Files attached to email local and Network - Automated offline file requesting - Automated Networked File requesting (networked feature). - Surveys and Voting - Multiuser Teleconferencing with port status and paging - Prompts for prepared text uploads in email and messaging. - Easy to use quoting feature in email and messaging - Configurable 'N' scans - Easy to set up Games and other external online programs - Save to ascii text any public or private message - Unlimited number of subs and file dirs - User defined macros and personal taglines - system bulletins and textfiles across drives - Random messages (up to 3 lines) - Up to 20 timed events per day. - User definable ansi screen colors (including background color) - File archive viewing. - Access coding throughout - Unique Dual purpose (ansi color and ascii) menuing system. - Full messaging and file search functions - Efficient binary storage of messages and all system text - Built in daily clean-up. - System activity display at logon - Fast Login from console - Mail forwarding (across multiple networks even) - FULLY WWIVnet, WWIVLink, Fido, and QWK format Capable - Assignable function keys at WFC - Highly informational and customizable WFC.COM screen - Full CD Rom or WORM capable databases - Runs as a door in whole OR in components from nearly any other BBS prog - Extensive log information - Macro capable Networking software included - Built in Ansi Autodetect - Read and write Email from WFC - Enhanced Sysop functions - Split Screen Chat - "Pseudo" Dos (allows sysop to perform Dos functions w/ user online) - Multi-Mail (up to 9 lists) - Multinet CC:s - SysOp security uploads - Uses full advantage of DSZ for upload and log info - Improved multiuser ability - Ansi Taglines (optionally random) - Built in BBS Diagnostics - Definable Function Blocks - Built in Ansi Color Full Screen Editor - Built in spell checker (requires VDIC.ZIP) - Configurable Autovalidation of SysOps - Optional use of FOSSIL driver for multiport operation, and better DESQVIEW compatibility - Ascii, Ansi, and Enhanced Ansi operation with Pull Down Menus - Multiple SysOp/Co-SysOp feedback. - Configurable personal taglines for users - Handles/Real Names toggle for each messaging sub and file uploads. - Message bases and file areas can be either "Flat" or "Layered" arrangements -4- ┌─────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ * - VBBS Installation - * │ └─────────────────────────────────────────┘ Installation of VBBS is quite straight-forward. It is perhaps the EASIEST BBS software in the known world to install. New Installations: ------------------ 1) Create a temporary directory on your hard disk and make it your current directory. 2) Extract the contents of VBBS542.ZIP or VBBS542.ARJ into your temporary directory. 3) Run INSTALL.EXE (choose NEW Installation YES when prompted) 4) Verify the configuration as Vconfig is presented, particularly in MAIN.CFG and MOST importantly CHANNELS.CFG. All Single node VBBS installations use the same command line; BBS 1 (naming channel # 1) You just need to correctly identify your modem PORT # in the channel 1 config. Existing Installations: ----------------------- 1) Extract the contents of VBBS542.ZIP or VBBS542.ARJ to a temporary dir. 2) Backup your LOGIN .ANS, .ASC LOGOFF.TXT NEWUSER.TXT and .DAT files (existing .CFG files will not be overwritten) 3) Run INSTALL.EXE (choose NO at new installation prompt) 4) Same as 3 for New Installation 4) Copy your backup VBBS data files to your VBBS directory and your .ANS, .ASC and .TXT files to the directory you have defined for TEXT files in PATHS.CFG - Configuring The Virtual BBS/NET - Using the VCONFIG.EXE configuration utility, you can configure main, Channel, databases, system paths, security levels, upload protocols, download protocols, VirtualNET Network data, timed events, assignable Function Keys, Door set up, Voting questions, random messages, textfiles and Archive Viewing configurations. NOTE: MOST of these configurations are properly set at default settings and configured for you already. The Following configuration is the ONLY configuration required in MOST installations to effect a first time start up: {In Main.cfg} BBS Name, SYSOP Name, System Password. {In Channel.cfg} Set channel 1 to correct modem port. It is easy to use the Vconfig configuration util at any time to do additional setup and further configuration. -5- Main.cfg ~~~~~~~~~~ 1. Main Settings are: BBS Name - The name of your system. SYSOP Name - Your name or alias. Timeout - The number of seconds to wait before inactivity timeout. (300 recomended) New User Security - Security level assigned to new users. New User Time - Time given to new users. Start-Up Script - Script file to run first when a user logs in. The name entered should be 8 characters or less, and DO NOT enter in any extension. ("Start" is the default start-up script, start.v) PAUSE String - Default string of text to output for PAUSE statement. Idle Modem - What do you want the modem to do when the BBS is not available to take a call? (ie system down, editing user data, etc.) Registration Number- Your Registration Number. New User Password - Setting to ALL SPACES disables this function. (If you are not using this setting, SPACE over it once!) Blank Screen WFC - How many seconds to display WFC after inactivity WFC screen can be recalled by using "?") Reserve Space (kb) - When a user goes to upload, they are informed of the free space available on the upload drive. This option lets you "shield" a set amount of free space from the amount actually available. Note: When you as SysOp access the free space display, the ACTUAL free space is indicated. Using Watch.Com - IF you use WATCH.COM to monitor the BBS, by turning this option on, VBBS will set WATCH to OFF when appropriate. Watch.com is a utility by which is one of many such utils that reboot your computer in the event that x number of rings are sensed w/o a connect NOTE: If using WATCH.COM or facimile, be sure to load the utility BEFORE the program in your autoexec.bat file. Allow Handles - "Yes" will allow New Users to use "Aliases" on your system. "No" will require that they use Real Names only. Daily Cleanup - Time of Day to do auto-cleanup, in hh:mm format. Disable option with 00:00. Allow 255 Remote - If set to No, will not allow any user to have 255 SL from a remote login. Security Feature. System Password - A required password to be entered by those logging in at 255 security level (including you). Security Feature. Registration Code - Special code to enable your registered board status. Using FOSSIL - Configure VBBS to use optional FOSSIL driver SysOp Pager - Can be set to either "scroll lock" or (A) from WFC WFC Drive List - Specify the dribes you want displayed on your WFC screen. Up to 5 (ie.. cdefg). # of Active Ports - Optimize VBBS for the max # of simultaneous online users. -6- Channel.cfg ~~~~~~~~~~~ 1 thru 64 COM Port - Your Modem COM Port # Base Address - Configurable but set as default IRQ (hex) - " " Baud - Maximum baud rate. Init String - Modem Initialization String Locked Baud Rate - Yes/No Hardware (RTS/CTS) Handshake - Yes (Normal)/Yes (Slow)/No Note: For most installations, all that should be entered is the Com Port #. -7- Database.cfg ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ At the heart of VBBS are the DATABASES. They are used for such functions as Message Bases, File directories and various other creative uses that might be a part of a custom Vscript. Databases can be setup or altered in Vconfig by the SysOp at any time. Remember that you MUST make sure that the directory you name in Database config actually exists. ONLY Databases which contain actual files need to be named to their own DOS sub directory. Also note that both tha "DB" dir where all the non-file related database data is stored, and the Sysop "UPLOAD" dir MUST be a subdirectory of VBBS. There are THREE basic types of DATABASES. Message databases, Files databases, and Other databases. All databses can be set up and grouped into TOPIC areas. Each Topic area requires it's own DB Group identifier which can be any letter between A - Z. ------------------ Message databases: ------------------ At default, VBBS comes with one message base topic area; MAIN. The "Main" topic area is given a DBGROUP designator of "A". After selecting Message databases in database config, and highlighting the topic, you are shown a display of the message bases that are included under that topic heading. There is no limit to the amount of message bases that can be entered under each topic. You may choose to put all of your message bases under a single "Main" topic, or break your topics down into several. For each topic that you add, you give it a name and a DBGROUP letter identifier. Your second TOPIC in addition to the already configured MAIN topic, might be called "VBBS", given a letter designator of "B" (or whatever), and contain message bases that are related to VBBS. You may choose to break your message bases down into NETWORK groups. You might have one TOPIC for Local subs, anoter for VirtualNET, another for Fido, and yet another for WWIVnet and so on. It's entirely up to you as to how you would like to have your message bases displayed. ---------------- Files databases: ---------------- The Transfer directory works in much the same way as the message bases. The DIFFERENCE, aside from the obvious like disabling taglines and such, is that instead of being pathed to the special "DB" dir which is used for message storage, a Files database is pathed to it's own unique DOS directory where the files for that dir are stored. Like message databases, Files databases can be set into topic areas by giving each topic a unique letter database DBGROUP identifier. All uploads go to the special UPLOAD sysop directory which is defined in paths.cfg and remain there until they are reviewed and moved by the sysop to a download directory. -------- *To add more message bases to the BBS, simply add more databases to the message database topic area. *To add more file directories to the BBS, simply add more databases to the files database topic area. *To add more topics to either, just enter the title and DBGROUP identifier for the new topic. ------ ALL FILE DIRS REQUIRE A DIR ACTUALLY BE CREATED BY YOU. ALL MESSAGE DIRS ARE AUTOMATICALLY PATHED TO THE "DB" DIR DEFINED BY YOU IN PATHS.CFG AND DO *NOT NEED AN ACTUAL DIR OF THEIR OWN. ------- Entries in your database configuration which have the same DB File and same DB Path specify the SAME database. So, be SURE you give each database a UNIQUE filename. -8- 3. Database Configuration: * = Not applicable to FILES databases Group - The identifier for the database type (A-Z) File Name - The filename of the database. Each Database should be given a UNIQUE filename. All database files are stored in the directory you defined under PATHS CONFIGURATION as the database directory. File Path - The pathname for the files attached to database entries, such as the files in the TRANSFER SECTION, or FILES ATTACHED to EMAIL. Long Name - The long, descriptive name of the database. Private? - Private Database Yes/No.(most databases are PUBLIC) VirtualNET Sub # - VirtualNET Sub-board identification code. 0 if not a net sub. Max Entries - Max Entries per database. 0 means unlimited. Read SL - Read Security Level. If user SL is less than this value, the database is invisible. Write SL - Write Security Level. Each time a DB is executed, the special variable $WRITESL is updated to reflect this value. Access Flag - Not associated with DBGROUP in any way. Group Codes let you restrict databases to certain groups. If the group code is zero, the feature is disabled for the database. If not, then a user must have a matching group code (or be SYSOP) to access the database. Age Limit - Restricts database access from users below defined age *WWIVnet - WWIVnet Subtype (if any). See NETGUIDE.DOC *WWIVLink - WWIVLink Subtype (if any). See NETGUIDE.DOC Tagline - Define tagline to be used in that database. 0=none 1= Tagline.1 201= Tagline.201 etc.. *Random Titles - 0 = dont use random titles, 1 to 999 use random title file RNDTITLE.x Name Used - Name used in database (Real, Handle, Anon) *QWK Conference # - Each database you make QWK-able should be given a UNIQUE Conference # greater than 1. Co-SysOp - Define co-sysop for msg base or file dir. 0=disable In msg bases, cosysop can delete, make permanent, net validate within their assign sub. In file dirs, can delete files and edit file descriptions. -9- Paths.cfg ~~~~~~~~~~~ 4. System Paths: Main VBBS Directory - VBBS Home Directory: Executables *.FB and *.CFG files go here (This should be your current directory when you are executing the program.) Scripts Directory - Where VBBS expects to find any script files: *.LIT, *.COD, *.V, plus .FB and .PDM files. Data Directory - Where VBBS expects to find system data files: USERFILE.DAT, USRMACRO.DAT, STATVBBS.DAT, CONNECT.DAT Network Files - Where VBBS expects to find network configuration files, other *.NET files and store net packets awaiting transfer. System Text Files - Where VBBS expects to find *.TXT, *.ANS, *.ASC files. CONTROL.DAT Directory - Where VBBS will maintain the temporary system file, CONTROL.DAT. Use of a RAM Drive for CONTROL.DAT is highly recommended in multiuser VBBS installations. Temporary Directory - The directory VBBS will use for temporary storage of incoming network packets and files. This directory you specify here should be not be used for any other purpose. Database Dir - Directory where VBBS will store all database data which is not related to actual files storage (ie. messages) Upload/Email Directory - Specifies path for storage of email attached files, and new uploads. -10- Security Config ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ MSL = Minimum Security Level required 1) MSL to Autopost - Who gets to post Autoposts 2) MSL to email others - Who get's to use the basic email function 3) MSL to email sysop an attached file- Who gets to attach files to email to the sysop 4) MSL to email others an attached file - Who gets to attach files to other users (and across the network) 5) MSL to use Multimail features - Who get's to use Multimail 6) MSL to use email carbon copy feature - Who gets to use CC:s 7) upload/download ratio Upload to download ratio used by the system (if any) This may be exemptable in the user editor. 8) Allow Sysop Validation- Enables/Disables Autovalidation of SysOps. A) Auto-Sysop Validation - Sets SL given to Visiting Sysop. B) Auto-SysOp Time Limit - Sets Visiting SysOp Time allowed on C) QWK Message Limit - Max # of msgs to put in a QWK mail outgoing packet. Will always finish a database up before making this test. D) Allow Personal Tag Lines (Y/N) --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Download amd Upload Protocols ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 7. Download Protocols and 8. Upload Protocols: Each Protocol is configurable by: 1. Letter Pressed to Select 2. Name/Description of Protocol 3. DOS Command Line to run Protocol %1 = Port #, %2 = Baud, %3 = FileName, %4 = HandShake 4. Batch Compatible? * Xmodem, Ymodem, Zmodem and HS-Link protocols have been preconfigured for you. ---------> Important! NOTE: It is highly recommend that you use the FULL PATH when you specify the filename of your transfer protocol. For example, with DSZ: C:\VBBS\DSZ port %1 ha %4 rz ^^^^^^^^^^^ Full Path to execution file. -11- Network Config ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 9. Network Config Net Low Time - Begin time for accepting net xfers only (00 = disabled) Net High Time - End time for accepting net xfers only (00 = disabled) Net Redial Attempts - Number of attempts for connection to Host or remote system. (default is 10 attempts) SYSTEM VirtualNET node # - Your systems Unique VirtualNET node number SYSTEM VirtualNET Config SERVER VirtualNET Node # - VirtualNET node # of your host (Defaults to VirtualNET @1) VirtualNET Network Password- Network Password assigned by Net coordinator VirtualNET Server Distance- Local/Long Distance. If set to Local, VBBS will dialout whenever the Network message threshold is met. Long distance will only dialout once per day. VirtualNET Server Threshhold- # of messages Vnet will allow before going into Autodialout mode to Server. 0 = Never autodial. VirtualNET server macro- If your server is being run from inside another system or matrix Login, you may create a macro textfile for it and name it here. The macro.txt should go in your NETWORK directory. (see Network.doc) VirtualNET Server Protocol- Toggles between Zmodem and HS-Link.(Zmodem is the default) Dialing string - SysOp definable dialing string. ATDT will suffice for most installations. VirtualNET Clients Config - Information on systems to which you serve as host to (if any) WWIVnet Config SYSTEM WWIVnet Node # - Your WWIVnet node # (if any) NOTE: Do not set this to a WWIVnet node # unless you are running WWIVnet directly inside of the program WWIVnet Data Dir Path - Where VBBS will find your WWIVnet DATA dir WWIVLink Config SYSTEM WWIVLink Node# - Your WWIVLink node # (if any) WWIVLink Data Dir Path- Where VBBS will find your WWIVLink DATA dir. Network Poll delay at WFC- Time interval (in seconds) between Auto-net dialouts from WFC For more on setting up as a VirtualNET node, see NETGUIDE.DOC -12- Events Config ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ A. Events: VBBS allows up to 20 timed events per day. Possibilites here include your daily external maintenance (usually done by a batch file), network dialouts, etc. You can specify: Time - Time event runs (00:00 disables event) Command - The DOS command line to execute For a daily maintenance batch file, you might use EXTERNAL.BAT. To automatically do a network dialout, use: VNET /NET To automatically poll a remote system (which you serve as host to), use: VNET /DIAL<remote sys#> VNET.EXE features a macro facility which makes it possible to access a VirtualNET BBS that is being run as a door or in a matrix logon. (see, NETGUIDE.doc) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Control Panel ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ In addition to other commands found in the Waiting For Call menu, VBBS allows you to assign up to 10 Function keys for whatever use you desire. At default, the F1 key is assigned to call a batchfile called Terminal.bat (but ofcourse can be anything you want). The F2 and F3 keys call up System Log and Network Log respectively using a List utility (not included). Logs are located in the DATA directory. -13- Doors Config ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ In Doors config, you are prompted for the Name of the online game or other external program you wish to run, the security level required to access that program if any, and the name of the batchfile (including the .BAT extention) from which the program is run. VBBS shrinks out of memory for all external programs. You may use this to add, delete or modify your doors at any time. VBBS creates both Chain.txt, door.sys and Dorinfo1.def formats for your use. Those three parameters are all that need be defined. At the present time VBBS will NOT run older online programs that rely on DOS interupts. VBBS allows you to assign an access letter in addition to a minimum security level for each game. The doors configuration also asks you if the game is single node or multi-node. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Voting Booth ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ VBBS Voting allows you to present your users with a perpetual survey in which users can 'vote' on particular issues as defined here. The sysop presents a question and then supplies up to 8 multiple choice answers for the users to answer. When accessing the 'voting booth', results of the voting are presented to the sysop and display a percentage breakdown of the 'vote'. In the default START.V, if new questions exist, the user will be presented at logon with the opportunity to vote. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- Random Messages ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ VBBS features a "random messaging" function that can display one, two, or three line quips, quotes or whatever upon display and redisplay of the main menu (as set in the default start.v). These messages are called randomly by the program and are entered in Vconfig. Archive View ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ VBBS allows you to view the contents of a compressed file within the File Transfer Directories. Configured at default are the .ZIP, .ARC, .ZOO, .LZH and .ARJ archive extentions. Text Sections ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Various Textfiles on in various directories on your system can be configured here for display. Textfiles are uploaded in much the same manner as downloadable files in the file section. In the configuration, you can define any directory on your system as that containing text for a defined subject area. VBBS Diagnostics ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ VBBS has the ability to run diagnostics on your setup. If you recieve an error, go here and run the diagnostics. Chances are, it will show you where your error is. Diagnostics are a seperate utility and available along with other utilities from any VBBS support board. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- -14- Running VBBS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ When running VBBS, a Ram Resident BBS.EXE controls the program and should be used as the ONLY means of starting VBBS. The EXE is used to transfer needed information to the program. The basic syntax for bringing VBBS online is: BBS <channel #> (NOTE that ALL single node installations use the "BBS 1" command line) Channel 1 is the only channel capable of doing network operations, and running automatic events. <channel #> is a number from 0 to 4, for the SHAREWARE version. (For the 64 user version, its a number from 0 to 64, for example.) BBS 0 specifies LOCAL MODE execution only, using the console keyboard, and bypassing WFC initialization. Command line options include: /AC - Use this when running VBBS as a door, or from a matrix logon. Example: BBS 1 /AC /H - Used with /AC, forces VBBS to hang up when caller logs off. /Bxxxxx - Used with /AC to pass the baud rate of the modem connection. /DV - Turns on Desqview Awareness. When this option is on, VBBS will multitask better under desqview. When the program is idle, (waiting for a call, or waiting for user input), more CPU time is given to other tasks that may be running on the system. It is highly recommend that you use a FOSSIL driver when running VBBS under Desqview. /WWIV - command for logging user to VBBS being run as a door from WWIV, VBBS or any BBS program using the chain.txt format. (see .doc) ----------------------------------------------------------- Internal Serial Driver vs. FOSSIL driver VBBS comes with its own serial driver, called SERIAL.BIN. This driver will work with COM1 to COM4, and will be suitable for use by most sysops. If you wish to run a mulriport serial card, or if you wish to run VBBS under Desqview, it is highly recommended that you use a FOSSIL driver. Selecting between Internal and FOSSIL is acomplished by VCONFIG, under main configuration. For more info, see VFOSSIL.DOC. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- -15- --------------------- First Time Start up --------------------- Note: VBBS uses true Ansi. Ansi.sys or similar device driver is required in your config.sys for Ansi display. To enable all BBS functions to work properly, DSZ.COM (or exe), LIST.COM, PKUNZIP.EXE, and PKZIP.EXE (all Shareware) should be in your path. By executing VBBS using "BBS 1" (single node installation), you will bring up the program in the WFC mode. This is the online control panel for VBBS and in this screen, the BBS is in a "Waiting for call" state. Logging on the first time: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ If your VBBS is a new installation, then the USERFILE.DAT (user accounts) file is empty. Use the (L)ogin Local from the WFC screen to Log yourself in as NEW, and create yourself a SYSOP account. Thereafter, you can use (F)ast Login. DO NOT use (F)ast Login until your sysop account has been created! ┌──────────────────┐ │ Waiting For Call │ └──────────────────┘ VBBS uses a highly informational WFC.COM screen. This screen not only provides System statistics, time, drivespace and system status, and BBS name, it is also customizable from within any Ansi Draw program that saves screens to the .COM format. Note that if your drive space on a given drive drops below a certain % of capacity, that line will change color to let you know that more space needs to be freed up. -CONTROL PANEL- F) Fast Local Login - Fast login from console (Estab. SysOp acct 1st) L) Login Local - Logs you into the system (Use this to estab. Sysop account) S) Shell to DOS - Shells to Dos environment within VBBS U) User Editor - Allows editing of user information V) VConfig - The VBBS configuration utility I) System Info - "To date" information on your BBS C) Today's Callers - Log of callers since midnite W) Who's Online - Shows status of each port /) Dial NET CLIENT - Allows a forced net callout to a system that is listed in your remote configuration N) Dial NET SERVER - Forces a network connect to SERVER E) Email - This function allows you to email local and network from the WFC M) Read All Mail - Sysop read all mail on system Scr/Lock) Sysop avail. - Toggles sysop page (beep) on/off Esc) Quit BBS - Quits VBBS and returns to DOS -DEFINABLE FUNCTION KEYS- F-1 thru F-10 - Configured in Vconfig to call up various batchfiles. (might be a term program, text editor or whatever) These keys are configured in the main.cfg using Vconfig.exe. Use of a LIST utility is needed to read the various log files. Note: If you encounter any program errors at this point, it is likely that you have either misstated a path in paths.cfg, moved a file to a wrong dir, or forgot to compile the V.Scripts. Use the Diagnostics option in Vconfig to isolate any problems. -16- Creating The SYSOP Account ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ From VBBS WFC, Login locally by pressing 'L'. You will first see the Login.txt screen from Virtual Reality BBS. This screen, as well as the logoff.txt screen will need to be replaced later with an ascii or ansi screen of your own creation. Directly following the login.txt will be the login prompt. Type "New" to create the first entry into your user data file. You will then see the Newuser.txt followed by the prompts to fill out your user information. VBBS currently also allows the user to configure his default colors here as well. It may be best to choose "8" (none) at each prompt, and then experiment with the settings, once an account has been created and you are inside of the BBS. Once your account has been created, you will login with mail waiting. This mail is a scripted auto New User mail from the sysop welcoming the new user. It is created from the "start.v" script and is an excellent place for you to later get your feet wet inside of the scripts by personalizing that mail. A "?" displays your email options at the end of the mail. The following Hot keys are available to the console while a user is online: [F1] Enter/Exit Chat Mode [shift F1] Enter Split Screen Chat ([esc] exits) [F2] Enter user editor Note: by exiting the F2 user editor as another user. The SysOp can change to that user. [F3] Add 1 minute to user session [Shift F3] Subtract 1 minute from user session [F4] Increases online user's SL by 5 [Shift F4] Decreases online user's SL by 5 [F5] Drop to DOS (VBBS stays in memory) [Shift F5] Drop to DOS (VBBS shrinks out) [F6] pseudo DOS multitasker (allows sysop to run small DOS commands from the console while the user is online and using the BBS.) [F8] Sysop Alert (alerts sysop when board is free after user logs off) [F10] Boot User Off [Ctrl F10] Boot user with "storm.txt" (BBS coming down due to inclimate weather conditions or whatever) [Shift F10] Boot user off with simulated "line noise" [Scroll Lock] Can be used at any time to toggle the "SysOp Available" status As you continue with creating your SysOp account, you will need to change your security level to 255 (maximum), and assign yourself a "max time" which is how many minutes per day a user is allowed on the system. For Sysop, make this 1440 (24 hours). By pressing F-2, you will call up the user editor to enable your editing of the appropriate fields. -17- VBBS User Editor ------------------- User No. 1 - Displays User # a. Handle : - User Handle b. Name : - User Real Name c. Address : - Street or PO Box address d. City : - City e. State : - State f. Zip : - Zip code g. Security: - User's Security level h. Flags : - (see note) i. PW : - User's Password j. Title : - (see note) k. Phone 1 : - Voice Phone # l. Phone 2 : - Data Phone # m. MaxTime : - Maximum time allowed on per day n. Access Flags: - (see note) o. Verify Birthday: - Displays user's Birthday. (see note) p. Ex1: q. Ex2: r. Ex3: s. Ex4: t. Ex5: u. Ex6: v. Ratio Exempt: - Allows you to exempt user from Up/Down Ratio reqs. w. U/L:1 x. D/L: Sets Ratio for up/downloading of files ANSI:Y Page Length: 24 Colors: 32 4 6 Calls: Time: 12411 910807 (a-v)=edit, Esc)Quit, Enter)Next, -)Previous, /)Find !)Delete-> Note: g. - Security levels are 1 thru 255 (255 being SysOp access). Default new user security levels are set in Vconfig {main}. h. - The use of flags - There may as many as 26 flags (a-z) A - AutoPost at login time on/off X - Expert mode N - If set, has received the new user welcome message. F - If set, user is configured for the full screen editor j. - This area can be used for one line notes concerning the current user. p. thru u. - Extra variables o. - if toggled will ask user to re-enter his or her b'day at login. / - Searches User list ! - Deletes user (user's SL is reset to 0 and account becomes open for reassignment). -18- User Account Defaults 1. Video Mode [ ] - User chooses Ascii, Ansi, or Enhanced Ansi (pulldown menus) for default usage. 2. Expert Toggle [OFF] - Expert mode will bypass the menu display 3. Page Breaks [0] - Defaults at 24. "0" = Continuous scroll. 4. Password - User password 5. Auto-Posts [OFF] - Toggles AutoPost display at login 6. Ctrl-A User Macro- Users can set up 2 seperate macros each containing 7. Ctrl-B User Macro- up to 79 chars including Ansi control chars. 8. ANSI Color Set-Up - Allows user to select screen display to taste. 9. Full Screen Editor [ON] - Toggles between FSE or Line editor. A. Mailbox: - Allows users to forward mail to another user or Network system. B. Security- Displays list of things that the user has sufficient security to do on the system. C. Long Distance Cost- Allows user to keep track of Long distance usage and billing by defining cost per minute and knowing the billing cycle. D. Sort File lists - Allows user to choose if file listings should be sorted alphabetically or not. E. User Taglines - User has the ability to set up to 9 personal taglines for inclusion into messages. User tags are inserted by using ^C. Q. Quit - Saves changes and quits to main menu -19- The Default setup ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ VBBS could easily be distributed with a BLANK menu. Instead, a default menu and Function Block set are provided with the program reflecting the configuration of the software on the Author's BBS. Below is the START.FB (function block) which is provided with VBBS 5.42. It corresponds exactly to what has been defined in the MAIN menu (.ans/.asc). For more info on FBs, see Customizing options. MAIN (name of corresponding menu) A (dbgroup letter(s) of TOPIC areas to reference. ie.. ABC) $ 001 1 choosetopic > 001 1 nextbase < 001 1 prevbase c 001 1 selectbase j 001 1 setquickscan s 001 1 scanmsg n 001 1 readnewmsg r 001 1 readseqmsg p 001 1 post e 001 1 sendemail y 001 1 reademailfrom m 001 1 reademailto q 001 1 quickmail f 001 1 feedback o 001 1 door z 001 1 telecon d 001 1 account l 001 1 pagesysop t 001 5 files b 001 1 textfiles k 001 1 listcallers u 001 1 listusers a 001 1 autopost v 001 1 vote i 001 1 sysinfo w 001 1 who x 001 1 listnet * 255 5 sysop G 000 1 logoffyn Menus ~~~~~ VBBS uses Ansi and Ascii Menus that can be created with your favorite Ansi Draw program. VBBS comes with a complete menu set (various .ans and .asc menus). You simply need to save your menus in the appropriate .ANS and corresponding .ASC menus. Note also that VBBS uses lines within both the main and transfer menus which are visible only to users with sec levels of 255 (sysop level). Newly saved Ansi menus will need to have these lines "tagged" into the menu using an ascii type editor. "!" is a VBBS comment line. "!" followed by 255 tells VBBS to only display this line to users who have a security level of 255. This can be used as a filter for menu options at any SL. Pull down menus can be accessed by using the [esc] key or configuring Enhances Ansi as a default Video Mode and can be easily customized. (see Pull down menu sec.) -20- ----------------------- The Default Main Menu ----------------------- Messaging functions ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ L) List Bases - Brings up prompt to list available message bases. P) Post Message - Post a message in the current base. N) New Message Scan - New-scans all bases. R) Read Sequential - Read messages in current base sequentially. S) Scan Brief - Scans posts in current base backwards in groups of 10, showing the number, author and message subject. J) Join/ Ignore Base - Allows users to set up bases to ignore or mark for scanning. >) Next Base - (or +) Next message base in sequence. <) Previous Base - (or -) Previous base number. #) Change to Base # - Change to a base by entering it's number. Email functions ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ M) Mailbox Scan - Displays all mail in user mailbox '*'= unread Y) Read Mail You've Sent - Displays list of all local mail sent as well as all unbundled Network mail. E) Write Email - Write email to another local or network user. F) Feedback to the SysOp - Auto mails the SysOp Q) Multimail- Users configured for Multimail usage may store up to 9 seperate "mailing lists" which may include an unlimited # of local, VirtualNET and/or WWIVnet/WWIVLink addresses. It is important that responsible Network usage of this feature is maintained. BBS Sub-System ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ T) File Transfer - This calls up the Files menu B) Bulletin/Texfiles - General Textfiles available for reading S) System info - Provides a display of VBBS system stats. V) Voting Booth - Users are allowed to vote on polling questions posted by the sysop or others as determained in $Vconfig7. D) Defaults - User configurable default settings. O) On-line Programs - Displays menu for games and other online programs configured in Vconfig A) Autoposts - Displays AutoPosts Other Functions ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ K) Today's Callers - A list of callers who have logged on today. U) User Listing - The list of system users and their location. I) System Info - Shows statistical chart of BBS usage. C) Page SysOp - If the console scroll lock is selected to "on", this will activate an audible page. W) Who's Online - Shows status of console and each modem port. Z) Mutiuser Telecon. - This is the multiuser teleconference feature that allows users to chat beween nodes. X) Network info - Displays Network BBSlist(s) *) SysOp Menu - Go to Sysop function menu (displayed to 255 SL only) G) Logoff - Exit BBS -21- SysOp Menu ~~~~~~~~~~~~ M) Read All Mail - Review all mail on system E) Edit File - Edit any file U) User Editor - User Editor S) Security - Displays Users with "security" status C) Force Cleanup - Force Daily cleanup Q) Quit - Quit to main menu -22- Communications ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ VBBS, in the default setup, places all communications functions in the main menu. Seperate menu displays for messaging and/or email for instance, can be easily customized to whatever type of interface the SysOp would like to present to the user. The messaging function in VBBS provides an easy to use interface for email and the posting of public messages. In addition to the standard line editor for messages, VBBS also includes a built in full screen editor which provides function in addition to that of line editor. Users may set their default to whichever editor they prefer. A quoting feature is built in to VBBS and can be used in either editor. Users are prompted whether or not to quote from a message when replying to a mail or post. When a user choses to write mail or post, he or she will also be asked by the program whether or not to upload a prepared text. Choosing Yes will prompt for a filename followed by the upload. At the end of an email, users whom have the proper security level are able to attach a file to a piece of mail. Sysops may send attached files to email accross the Network. The "FSE" includes line by line scrolling, a cut and paste feature, Control code colors (^P), and a built in Spell check dictionary (not included). Note: Both VBBS editors as well as Post titles, and Autoposts are capable of ^P color enhancement (10 color options for line editor, 36 for FSE). A list of those colors is shown in the editor help screen. To bring up the menu line for options of Saving or discontinuing a message in the FSE, a user can press the [esc] key twice, or press a "/". Message sub-menu ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ [ENTER] Next Message - Advances to next Message Base. R) Reply to message - Reply to the current message. A) Read message again - Re-read the current message. D) Delete Message - Delete the current message. ###) Jump to Number ### - Entering a number will take you to that message. S) Scan Next 10 Messages - Scans forward. B) Bypass Sub (QuickScan) - Bypasses msgs to next sub during Quickscan. E) Send Email Reply - Sends a private reply to a message. Q) Quit Reading Messages - Returns to Communications menu. +) Thread Forward - Search for Replies to current message (if any). -) Thread Backward - Search for Original to current message (if any). ----- SysOp ----- X) Extract Text - Extracts message to a textfile which is named by you. Can extract to a file in OVERWRITE or APPEND modes. M) Move Message - Moves message to a different message base. P) Toggle Perm - Makes or unmakes current message permanent. This is useful for making the first message of a message sub an explaination of that message sub, etc. -23- Email sub menu ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ [ENTER] Next Email - Advances to next mail. R) Reply To Email - Reply to email sent you. A) Re-Read Email - Re-displays current message. D) Delete Email - Deletes an email. Q) Quit Reading Email - Quits to communications menu. T) Download Attached File - If file is attached, this will allow the remote user to download the attached file. ###) Read Mail number ---- SysOp ---- X) Extract Text - Allows SysOp to save a message to a textfile. F) Forward - Forward mail to another local or network user. V) Validate User - Goes to User editor to update User account. -24- ------------------------ Default Transfer Section ------------------------ FILES.FB FILES (name of files menu) F (corresponding files library area(s)) g 000 1 logoffyn m 001 1 dlmasterlist u 001 1 remoteupload d 001 1 downloadfile r 001 1 reviewfile c 001 1 selectbase j 001 1 setquickscan l 001 1 listfiles n 001 1 newfiles s 001 1 searchall b 001 1 batchdl f 001 1 findfiles > 001 1 nextbase < 001 1 prevbase p 001 1 topdownloads y 001 1 ratio z 255 1 sysopupload x 255 1 reviewuploads q 000 5 start Files Menu ~~~~~~~~~~ C) Change directory - Displays list of dirs and prompts for dir change. L) List Files *.* - Lists all files in the current dir. S) Search All Dirs - Searches for filenames based on. D) Download Files - Download file(s). R) Review Files - Browse files in current directory. N) New files - Scans files that are new since last call. U) Upload Files - Prompts user for files to upload. B) Batch Functions - Used to mark and then download multiple files. Y) Your Transfer Stats - Displays users transfer statistics. P) Popular D/Ls - Searches and compiles display of top user downloads. J) Join/Ignore Dirs - Sets dir to include or ignore in newscan. K) Default File Dir - Dir that user defaults to (#1 if not set). F) Find Description - Finds file through keyword searches in file. descriptions. >) Next Directory - (or +) Advances to next file directory. <) Previous Directory - (or -) Reverses to previous directory. #) Change to Dir. # - Entering a dir number will take you to that dir. M) Master List - Creates Masterlist of Files for user to download. Q) Quit - Quits to main menu. G) Log Off - Exit BBS. ---- SysOp ---- X) Sysop Directory - Review NEW uploads to Sysop Directory. Z) Local Upload - Uploads files to directory. -25- Filesub menu ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ [ENTER] Next Entry - Advances to next file or file listing. D) Download - Download Current file (? displays options). B) Batch Functions - Add files to "batch queue" (for multiple file transfers). A) List Again - Re-displays the current file. ###) Jump to ### - Jumps to file number pressed. Q) Quit - Quit to Files menu. V) View Archive - View the contents of the archived file. R) Request File - Allows user to request a file from it's networked. file listing. SysOp will be prompted to Approve or Disapprove a request (also for local offline files). T) Test ZIP - Allows the testing of the current file with a virus scanning software such as SCAN (not included) This feature is currently ONLY available for .ZIP files. ---- SysOp ---- O) Move File Offline/Online - Toggles file to/from diskette or Tape drive. Can also just toggle the file's availability. Z) Add ZIPCOMNT.TXT to ZIP - Manually adds Zipcomnt.txt to archive. X) Remove File - Remove filelisting and/or file from current dir. C) Copy File - Copies file from one directory to another. E) Edit Description - Allows SysOp to Edit the file description. -26- Multiuser Teleconference ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The Multiuser Teleconference is a simple demonstration of an internode "chat" setup. It has been internalized into the exe for speed. Even if you are running only one node under Windows or Desqview, you can run multiuser by running one node from the BBS 1 command and one from a BBS 0 commandline. Users can page each other for chat and join into an online teleconference. Autoposts ~~~~~~~~~~~~ Autoposts are electronic Post-It notes that appear at program login or from choosing their display from the main menu. Users who have the appropriate security level may post a 3 line message for display. The most recent 5 autoposts are displayed. In the default start.v users have the option of having autoposts displayed to them at login. Chat Screens ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ VBBS uses a special Chat feature which splits the screen into TWO halves. The upper half of the screen for the sysop, the lower half for the user. The User's name appears at the bottom end of the screen and the Sysop's name appears at the very top. Split screen can be called at any time by using [shift][F1]. Normal chat is called by pressing [F1]. System Taglines ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ VBBS now uses a file called TAGLINE.### for system taglines. This 3 line tagline may either be created in ascii or heart code ansi. VBBS strips out any raw ansi from taglines. In the absence of an ascii editor, a sysop can use the "edit any file" option in the SysOp menu to create a ^P colored tagline. Setting the tagline option to 0 in database.cfg will disable the use of taglines in that message sub. Setting the tagline option to 999 will enable a complete random rotation of taglines. A seperate EMAIL tagline is created for email use. For specific rules on tagline usage in VirtualNET, please see NETGUIDE.DOC. -27- Customizing VBBS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The configurability of VBBS cannot be overstated. You may easily modify VBBS to look and feel like some other BBS software. You may borrow features from several different BBS softwares to form one of your own design. You might just go absolutely nuts one night and decide to make VBBS emulate GEnie (or other CIS). Aside from obvious limitations in actual STORAGE, you could accomplish this to the point where a user could not tell the difference! It is doubtful that anyone would actually want to RUN a BBS that looked exactly like GEnie. This was just used as an illustration as to the capabilities of script customization. Unlike source code, which normally contains strict rules on code segment distribution (VBBS included), Vscripts as well as Function Blocks and menus may be distributed freely in full, or even in entire configuration sets. Creating and Editing Vscripts- The ability to create and edit scripts is completely self contained. You simply need to use your favorite text editor or word processor and of course become somewhat familiar with the Vscript language. (see Vscript.doc) SysOp created VSCRIPTS and VSCRIPT help can be found on VirtualNET and from many VBBS Support BBSs. Compiling the Vscripts- VBBS includes a special compiler (VCOM.EXE), that is used to compile the .V script text into code. -28- ---------------- Function Blocks: ---------------- Creating and editing Function Blocks- Function Blocks are simple ascii files residing in the MAIN VBBS dir. The syntax for their use is: <menu file (8 chars max)> <database group attached to this FB> (if any) <one or more lines of the following, in strict columns:> 1 3 7 9+ x yyy z ccccccccccccccc x=Key to assign yyy=Security Level (must be 3 digits (like 001)) z=command type 0= Null (no operation) 1= Internal command (like SENDEMAIL) (Any one word script command will work) 2= Script 3= DOS function (don't shrink) 4= DOS function (shrink) 5= Transfer control to a different function block c=command string ------- an example FB might look like: ------- EMAIL (name of menu file) (no database attached (email is automatic)) E 001 1 sendemail M 001 1 reademailto F 001 1 feedback S 001 1 reademailsent Q 000 5 START (on Quit, return to START FB) ------- For msg bases: ------- MSG A (since this references group A, A is the attached dbgroup) R 001 1 readseqmsg N 001 1 readnewmsg P 001 1 post C 001 1 selectbase > 001 1 nextbase < 001 1 prevbase Q 000 5 START ------- START.FB must be the first FB run. It is to be the MAIN FB of a BBS. It takes control immediately after START.V finishes running. Once you are a VirtualNET node, you will be able to access the SysOp sub message bases which includes the Vscripts discussion sub as well as the Vscripts FBs and Mods networked File directory. <Please see Vscript.doc for detailed script info> -29- ---------------- Pull Down Menus: ---------------- New to VBBS are enhanced ansi Pull down Menus. This option can be called by a user at any time by hitting [esc] at a menu prompt. Pull down menus can also be set up as a default user display in User Defaults as part of the Enhanced Ansi video mode which creates a unique display of dialog boxes and other enhancements. Try it! Pull down menus are completely configurable just like the function blocks they correspond with. Each Pull down menu is contained in a .PDM file. The default FILES.PDM file is shown below. Directory C Change Directory [C] L List Files [L] S Search All Dirs [S] N New Files List [N] F Find Description [F] Transfer D Download Files [D] U Upload Files [U] B Batch Functions [B] R Review Files [R] Y Your Stats [Y] Other J Join/Ignore Directories [J] P Popular Downloads [P] M Download Master List [M] Q Quit to Main Menu [Q] G Log Off [G] The FILES.PDM as shown corresponds with the default FILES.FB included with the VBBS distribution archive. Be sure that any additions and changes to one is mirrored to the other. The Source ~~~~~~~~~~ VBBS may also be modified through "source mods" by Sysops who have registered at the SOURCE level. Sysops are encouraged to share their modifications with others and in fact, specific "sub" areas have been devoted to this on both VirtualNET and WWIVnet. -30- Optimizing VBBS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Aside from the frequent running a disk speedup/optimization utility, A VBBS installation can be optimized further by the use of Ramdrive. Although it is not at all nescessary to do so, if you have the RAM to spare, further improvement to system speed can be made this way. Use of a RamDrive ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ A VBBS installation can be optimized through the use of a RAMDRIVE (virtual disk). By loading some of the smaller, frequently accessed files into RAM memory, many systems will apreciate system speed up ranging from modest to substantial. The CONTROL.DAT directory probably benefits the most from being located on a RAM drive. CONTROL.DAT is the "buffer" or channel between two or more nodes, and is as well, the file that holds temporary status information about who is logged onto the system. VBBS Textfiles and Menus within the TEXT directory can be put on a RAMDRIVE. These would be the *.TXT, *.ASC, and *.ANS files. Because they are frequently used, loading them into RAM can reduce hard disk access substantially. Last, the SCRIPT directory can be put on a ramdrive. These would be the *.COD and *.LIT files. Putting your script files on the ramdrive speeds the process of loading the scripts. In a typical installation, RAMDRIVE installs in the following manner: DEVICE=RAMDRIVE.SYS 80 /E The "80" refers the size of the desired ram disk in kilobytes. The "/E" locates the ram disk in extended memory. (In order to use this option, you need to be running a 286 or 386, with at least 1 megabyte of ram, and with either HIMEM.SYS (An Extended Memory Manager), or QEMM386 (if you have a 386) installed. Leaving the "/E" part off puts the ram disk in conventional memory. -31- - Security- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ VBBS provides a high level of security. One of the most significant security features of VBBS is that it will not allow a remote user to drop to Dos. If you would would like to enable a Remote Dos capability, you will need to install Doorway (shareware), RemDos (shareware), or other program to run as a door in VBBS. This is generally a much safer method, and in the case of using "Doorway" provides a much more powerful remote interface. In Vconfig, you have the option of allowing Remote Sysop. Allowing a remote Sysop will let users with a security level of 255 (who know the current system password) to access the SysOp functions of VBBS EXCEPT accessing Dos. Pressing "S" from the SysOp menu will show all users on the system who have security level access. Although a user may view an archive, there is no function that will allow him or her to extract an archive. As with all BBS software, it is recomended that you use a registered Zmodem. VBBS uses a SysOp "SYSOP" directory which stores all files uploaded to the system and files sent that were attached to email. Here, the sysop has the ability to view, scan and move the files and file listings to the appropriate directory after review. Be sure to leave the security settings at 0 for this database and also insure that DSZ.COM is either IN your path or in the SYSOP dir itself. -32- Explanation of files used by VBBS ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Filename Directory Explanation ------------ --------- ---------------------------------------------- LOGIN ANS Text Your system's login screen LOGIN ASC Text Ascii version of above LOGOFF ANS Text Your system's logoff screen LOGOFF ASC Text Ascii version of above NEWUSER TXT Text Displayed to new users before sign-up COLORS TXT Text Menu for selecting user's default ANSI colors EMAILHLP TXT Text Help File for addressing email/netmail EDITHLP TXT Text Help File for line editor FEDITHLP TXT Text Help File for full-screen editor TRASHCAN TXT Text Ascii file containing words disallowed in user handles. STORM TXT Text Used as an emergency logoff screen to online users ZIPCOMNT TXT Text Your BBS ZIP file Comment REMUPLD TXT Text Message Displayed to Users before Upload EMAIL TAG Text Tag Line File for Email (2 lines max) TAGLINE x Text x = 1 to 989. Tag line files (2 lines max) TAGLINE 990-999 Text Tag Line file for Random Tag Lines (1 tag per line) (various)ANS Text ANSI Menus (various)ASC Text ASCII Menus (various)PDM Text Pull Down Menu Definitions (various)NET Network Network files BBSLIST x Network x = 0 to 12. Network BBS Lists. (various)V Script Script files " COD Script " " (produced upon compiling with VCOM.EXE) " LIT Script " " " " START FB Script Start function block (main menu) FILES FB Script Files " " (files menu) SYSOP FB Script Sysop " " (Sysop menu) INSTALL EXE Main VBBS Auto install program VBBS EXE Main Main VBBS executable VNET EXE Main Network executable VCONFIG EXE Main VBBS Configuration program VCOM EXE Main VBBS Vscript compiler BBS EXE Main Resident VBBS shell WFC COM Main SysOp's Waiting-for-caller Menu WFC DVA Main SysOp's WFC Menu (for use with Desqview) (various)CFG Main System configuration files produced by Vconfig SERIAL BIN Main Assembly language built-in serial routines (This is VBBS' built-in serial routines. These routines are used if you do not specify use of a FOSSIL driver.) (various)LOG Data SysOp Logs Dorinfo1.def chain.txt door.sys are files that are produced to pass needed information to online programs being run from the BBS. -33- VirtualNET Network Information ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ VirtualNET is the networking feature of the Virtual BBS. VirtualNET, has as it's primary purpose, the support of the VBBS/NET software. That nearly famous support and the growing network of subs around it, have been online for aproximately 12 months as of this update. You will find VirtualNET easy to become setup with, and alot of fun to participate in. VirtualNET is friendly and free from the politics that may be found on other networks. Come, join us! Networking your BBS with VirtualNET is quick, easy and more affordable than you might think. A typical network call at 2400 baud takes only one or two minutes, due to the efficiency of the design. Network "packets" are automatically ZIPped for transmission, reducing the length of the transfer to 1/3 of sending unZIPped data. The network software can make full use of the new HS-Link bidirectional protocol which can make net xfers even more efficient. The main mail server is located in Western Michigan, and utilizes a US Robotics HST 14400 bps modem. It is available for network transfers 24 hours a day. Registration is NOT required to join the network. We welcome nearly everyone! Setting up is EASY! Join the international NET Today! VBBS/NET is at this time capable of handling and nearly transparently "gating" Networks and Network subs of FidoNET, WWIVnet, WWIVLink and others in an ever expanding "Multi-net". Network utilities to enable the use of these Networks by VBBS are available to registered SysOps. * Please see NETGUIDE.DOC for information on VirtualNET and the VNET.EXE -34- VBBS/NET Registration ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ REGISTRATION: Only $35.00 ! The current cost of a Basic VBBS LIFETIME registration is ONLY $35.00. This makes VBBS affordable to all and an unsurpassed value in telecommunications software. Your registration of this young and fast growing program enables you to become a part of it's continuing developement. You will receive a life-time registration #. as well as access to VWW4.EXE and other available VBBS utilities which will make your VBBS even MORE powerful. Source Code: the VBBS SOURCE code, is available on a continuing basis to registered VBBS sysops for a seperate one time registration fee of $25.00 (See MAIL_REG.TXT) -35- The Future ~~~~~~~~~~~~ VBBS is a software that does not stand still. The near future will find VBBS with further enhancements and system features through the wizardry of it's author and through the input of the growing number of VBBS SysOps that are beginning to assemble nationwide. Plans for the immediate future include as always, the continuing and regular occurence of improved, new and added features that find their way into the program in each successive release. =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= ACKnowledgements DSZ.COM is an external protocol driver product by Omen Technology, Inc. HS-Link is a bi-directional external protocol driver by Samuel Smith PKZIP and PKUNZIP are file archiving programs by Phil Katz. LIST.COM is a file viewing utility by Vernon D. Buerg =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-= -36- For More on VBBS: Virtual Reality BBS 616-399-4818 24hrs USRobotics HST (300 to 14,400 bps) (fast file xfers! sysop support BBS!) -37- About the Author Roland DeGraaf is 27 years old and does not sleep. Earning a following as a gifted programmer and program developer in Western Michigan, Roland's passion for the past year has been the continuing developement of the Virtual BBS software. Born in 1964 with detached retnas from a premature birth, Roland is legally blind. Although his sight is very weak, his vision is intense and focused. Roland is blessed with both photographic and audiographic memory, but above all else, he is blessed with a drive to excel. Under the deft helmsmanship of Roland De Graaf, VBBS continues sailing into the virtual blue water of the modeming cyberspace. =-=-=-*-=-=-= VBBS/NET SysOp Documentation (C) 1992 J.Jaros