NetNews Usenet Archive 1992 #16/NN_1992_16.iso/spool/comp/sys/apple2/18133

Text File | 1992-07-30 | 44.7 KB | 862 lines

Newsgroups: comp.sys.apple2
Path: sparky!uunet!well!joko
From: [e-mail] (Joe Kohn)
Subject: Re: Frequently Asked Questions Post (2/2)
Message-ID: <[e-mail]>
Sender: [e-mail]
Organization: Whole Earth 'Lectronic Link
References: <[e-mail]> <[e-mail]> <[e-mail]>
Date: Fri, 31 Jul 1992 00:25:44 GMT
Lines: 850

In article <[e-mail]> [e-mail] (Daniel Demaggio ) writes:
>Topic:  What is an Apple II?
>==========================================
>
>      Excuse me while I wax a little philosophical, but the Apple II is one of
> the computer that started the computer revolution because it is so flexible
> and open--a pure hacker's machine, but also one that there is a lot of
> software to allow novices to use it too. The following are the various models
> of the Apple ][:
>
>    Apple ][
>    Apple ][+
>    Multitech MPF-II
>    Franklin Ace
>    Apple /// (w/emulation software)
>    ][ In A Mac emulator
>    track emulator for IBM
>    Apple ][ Emulator for Unix
>    Apple ][e (Unenhanced)
>E   Multitech MPF-III (if enhanced)
>E+  Laser 128
>E   Laser 128 EX/2
>E+  Apple ][e Emulation card (and a Mac LC)
>E   Apple ][e (Enhanced)
>E+  Apple //e (Platinum w/numeric keypad)
>E   Apple //c
>E   Apple //c+
>E   Apple IIGS (ROM 00/Woz edition.)
>E   Apple IIGS (ROM 01 with 256K built-in)
>E+  Apple IIGS (ROM 03 with 1 MB built-in)
>
> (E) = Emulates an Enhanced //e  (+) = Still in Production
>
>      Apple ][+: Surprisingly, the ][+ can run some of today's software. For
> instance, Davex and FredWriter. You can even run AppleWorks if you have more
> than 128K and a program called PlusWorks. Recommended configuration: 16K
> language card (in slot 0 with a ribbon cable running to the RAM), an
> 80-column video card (not the same as a //e 80-column card), shift key
> modification (a wire running from shift key to game port).
>      Apple //e: The //e comes in two flavors: Enhanced and Unenhanced. The
> Enhancement kit allows an upgrade path by replacing 4 chips. Most current
> software requires an Enhanced //e, and sometimes 128K too. The current
> operating system is ProDos. The Apple //e is still useful for three major
> reasons: 1) It runs AppleWorks, a simple to use, yet sophisticated integrated
> program. 2) There are many Apples in schools, so there is a ton of
> educational software for it. 3) It is was and will always be a _Personal_
> computer. You can learn as little or as much as you want, and nothing stops
> you from learning about every nook and cranny in it. Ask any big name
> programmer in MS/DOS or Mac where they learned to program. Most of them
> taught themselves on a good ol' Apple //. Good programs for an Apple //e:
> AppleWorks (from Claris) with TimeOut (Beagle Brothers), Copy ][+ (Central
> Point), ProTerm (InSync), PrintShop (Broderbund). Recommended configuration:
> 80 extended column card, 512K to 1MB RAM, Enhanced, Hard Drive is nice.
>      //c and //c+: The //c and //c+ are 'luggable' versions of an Enhanced
> //e, with many built-in 'cards'. Included are 2 serial ports, a mouse port, a
> 3.5" disk port and 128K of RAM. Even though they were supposed to be
> unexpandable, you can still add extra memory (there's room under the
> keyboard) and a hard drive (through the disk port--a bit slow by ordinary
> standards, but usable). Some software that uses the mouse may get confused on
> the //C+. The //C and //C+ cannot do AppleTalk or take any cards. Recommended
> configuration: Not much you can add to it, except maybe extra RAM and a 3.5"
> drive/Hard drive.
>      The Laser 128EX is a cross between the //c and an Enhanced //e. It is as
> luggable as a //c and has built-in 'cards', but it also has a slot to expand.
> If you want to add card, you may have to disable the internal UDC (for 3.5"
> drives) or the internal 1MB memory expansion.
>      The Apple IIGS represents a giant leap in the Apple // line. It can still
> run //e software, but has a better processor (16-bit), a new super-hires
> graphics mode, a toolbox in ROM (just like the Mac) and a 32 oscillator
> Ensoniq sound chip. It can not only run ProDos, but it can also run GS/OS, a
> sophisticated operating system very much like the Macintosh's OS. The
> original GS (I think they all have the Woz signature) must have a motherboard
> upgrade to run the current software. The ROM 01 had 256K on the motherboard,
> while the ROM 03 has 1 MB. Although there were a few ROM changes, the current
> system software will work patch the toolbox ROMs to look identical.
> Recommended configuration: 1.25 MB lets you boot up and launch programs. With
> 2 MB, you will have room for Desk Accessories. Go for 4 MB if you want a RAM
> disk (useful if you don't have a hard drive) or do a lot of Graphics work.
> Adding a hard drive is highly recommended.
>      The Apple ][e emulation card is a card that can only go into a Macintosh
> LC, and lets one run Apple //e software. It is actually more like a //c
> because it has no slots. Unfortunately, the emulation can be slower than a
> real //e because the LC is slow at updating the screen. There is a place on
> the back of the card to plug in a UniDisk 5.25" and a joystick.
>
>Q: How do I get out of Basic (that little "]" prompt and flashing cursor?
>
>A: Type the word "BYE" and press return. Now get out the Apple manual 'A Touch
> of BASIC' and read it.
>
>Q: Can the Apple II connect to SCSI devices?
>
>A: Yes. See the section on SCSI in this FAQ.
>
>Q: Can my Apple read IBM/MAC disks? What about High Density disks?
>
>
>A quick chart for 3.5" compatibility:
>Disk type   |  //e          GS           Mac W/DD Drive    Mac W/HD drive
>------------|------------------------------------------------------------
>ProDos 800K | yes           yes              AFE              AFE
>ProDos 1600K| HD 3.5        HD 3.5           no               AFE
>HFS 800K    | A2FX          Sys 6            yes              yes
>HFS 1440K   | not yet       HD 3.5 + Sys 6   no               yes
>IBM 720K    | somewhat      somewhat         AFE?             AFE
>IBM 1440K   | somewhat      somewhat         no               AFE
>
>Key:  yes = no problem            no  = impossible
>      not yet = possible, but no software available. Would need HD 3.5.
>      somewhat = software was written, but with limitations.
>      HD 3.5 = High Density Disk Drive _AND_ NEW 3.5" controller card
>      A2FX (and HFSLink) = PD/SW programs for the Apple II.
>      AFE = Apple File Exchange on the Macintosh.  Very S-L-O-W.
>      [note: for those who don't know, HFS is the normal Macintosh format]
>      For 5.25" disks, the encoding method is completely different between IBM
> and Apple. If you are really a glutton for punishment, you can get an Applied
> Engineering PC Transporter to read IBM 3.5" or 5.25" disks.
>Q: How do I get stuff from my Apple // to IBM (or Mac)?
>
>A: there are two parts to this question. Physically, you can use AFE (see
> above Q) or a null-modem cable. (a null-modem cable is really a printer
> cable. You connect the 2 serial ports, and poof, they can send files back and
> forth with any communications software) The other part to this question is
> data conversion. Once you copy your file to the IBM, you may find there is no
> software that can use it. Of course, converting an Apple program to IBM is
> out of the question.
>
>      One helpful hint is that all computers can read text files. Most word
> processors can save as text and import as text. But with text files, you will
> loose all your formatting (font type, centering and so-forth). For
> spreadsheets, saving as DIF will make conversion a breeze. Databases can be
> saved as tab-delimited records. (Note that in AppleWorks, you have to go to
> Print to save in these formats).
>      If you want to do better, there are several options available. For
> example, AFE can convert between some kinds of documents (For example
> AppleWorks Word Processor to MacWrite). The CrossWorks program can convert
> between many Apple and IBM formats, and even comes with a universal null
> modem cable. The program SuperWorks is an IBM clone of AppleWorks. It can
> import AppleWorks files directly. SuperConvert can convert between all
> Apple-specific graphics formats and many Mac, Amiga and IBM specific formats.
> It can also save as GIF, which is a universal standard.
>Q: What's the scoop on the new HD 3.5" drive?
>
>A: In order to do High Density on the Apple //, you will need both the High
> Density 3.5" drive and the new Apple 3.5" controller. If you don't have both,
> you will only be able to do regular density. Of course, you will also need
> High Density Disks.
>
>      Once you have collected the above items, you are in for a pleasant
> surprise. ProDos 8 programs not only recognize it, but they can format HD
> disks just fine. GS/OS has no problems either. You can even boot off of it,
> giving extra room for Desk Accessories and such. Drawbacks: You cannot boot
> copy-protected software or boot some FTA demos. Also, it takes up a slot on
> the GS. If you are clever, you can get around this. You can put it in slot 5,
> but then you will not be able to use a RAM disk (/RAM5). If you have a ROM 03
> GS, you can put it in slot 4 and disable the mouse. Your GS/OS programs will
> work, but your ProDos 8 programs won't be able to find the mouse. If you use
> AppleTalk on a ROM 01, you may be able to put it in slot 1 (or 2), and use
> the drive in the same slot as AppleTalk.
>Q: AppleWorks won't print to my printer. What gives?
>
>A: AppleWorks will refuse to print to a slot that has a disk device. In the
> past, this worked well because if you try to print to a slot that has a disk
> controller in it, you will re-boot. But now, this can cause problems when a
> disk device is 'mapped' into your printer slot (due to a limitation in
> ProDos, you can only have 2 drives per slot. Extra partitions on your hard
> drive will be re-mapped to other slots). If you have a RamFast, you can
> re-map the drives to different slots. Otherwise, there is a patch available
> that will let you print anyway. (**I forget where this patch is located?**)
>
>Q: Do third party 3.5" Macintosh disk drives work on the ][?
>
>A: No. Apple's 3.5" drive has logic to sense which machine it is hooked up to
> (Apple II or Macintosh) and it works accordingly.
>
>Q: Can I hook up a LaserWriter, DeskJet, etc to my Apple //e?
>
>A: Yes, all the above connections have regular serial or parallel connections.
> The tricky part is getting them to do what you want. The DeskJet, for example
> will print very nice looking text with regular old "PR#1". But if you want to
> change the font or print graphics, you may have to purchase some software.
> One excellent program for these types of printers is PublishIt 4. You won't
> believe the output you can get from a //e. For AppleWorks fans, there is the
> program called SuperPatch. Among it's patches is a cool DeskJet 500 printer
> driver. You can print sideways, and change fonts with normal AppleWorks
> commands.
>
>Q: Can I hook up a LaserWriter, DeskJet, etc to my Apple IIGS?
>
>A: On the GS, you can hook up a LaserWriter via AppleTalk or direct serial
> connection. A GS program can typically print to a LaserWriter if it's
> connected to the GS via AppleTalk. If you get a DeskJet, or PaintJet, etc,
> you can hook them up via the serial port. But in order to use them
> effectively, you will want Harmony from Vitesse (better) or Independence
> (cheaper) from Seven Hills. They are new printer drivers for GS/OS programs
> only. If you want to print from an 8-bit program, see the previous question.
>
>Q: Can I hook up a scanner up to my //e? Can it do OCR (Optical Character
>     Recognition)?
>
>A: Yes and Yes. Just pick up a Quickie scanner (by Vitesse) and InWords (by
> WestCode Software). You can scan 4" columns (you must have 512K to 1 Meg) and
> can even paste them together to make 8" scans. Then you can use InWords to
> "read" text and put it into a text file or AppleWorks Word Processor file.
>
>Q: What version is my computer?
>
>A: Apple //e: The major division is between the Enhanced and unenhanced
> models. Look at your computer while re-booting. If it says "APPLE ][", it is
> not enhanced. The enhanced computers will say "Apple //e". You can upgrade it
> yourself by getting the Apple //e Enhancement kit. (It contains 4 chips to
> replace on your motherboard.) Many newer programs will not work unless you
> have an Enhanced //e. If you have a //c or GS, or a Laser 128, you have
> Enhanced //e compatibility. There are also some older //e's that are not
> capable of double-hires. Check the serial number on the motherboard (in the
> back, by the power-on led). If it ends in -A, you may need a motherboard swap
> (unless you have the PAL version).
>
>A: pple //GS: There are 3 major versions of the GS: Check the initial power-up
> screen. It will say ROM 01, ROM 03. If it does not say either, you have the
> Original (Woz Signature edition). You must upgrade it in order to run current
> system software. The ROM 01 has 256K on the motherboard, while the ROM 03 has
> 1 MB on the motherboard. All the enhancements of the ROM 03 (except the 1MB,
> of course) can be added to the ROM 01 simply by booting up with current
> system software.
>
>      Apple //c: Go into Basic and type "PRINT PEEK (64447)" and press return.
> If it says 255, you have a very old //c. See your dealer about getting an
> upgrade. If it says 0, you can do 3.5" drives, but you don't have the memory
> expansion connector. If it says 3 You have the memory expansion. If it says
> 4, you have the latest model of the //c. If it says 5, you have a //c+.
>Q: I have a ][+/Franklin. Where can I get tech support?
>
>A: Send a Self Addressed, Stamped Envelope to: TEBR, RFD #1, North Salem, NY
> 10560-9705 or call PH# (914)-669-5421
>
>Q: My Applied Ingenuity drive died. Does anyone repair them?
>
>A: Bill Heineman, Custom Software Inc, 7734 S. Broadway Rd, Whitter, CA 90606
> PH# (213)-695-3966. He also does other types of drives.
>
>Q: Can I get replacement chips for my Apple //c?
>
>A: Alltech Electronics carries all the //c chips for $9 to $39 each (depending
> on the chip). Pick up the latest A+ and look for their ad. You can them at
> [phone].
>
>Q: Where can I find oscillator crystals?
>
>A: Digi-Key Corp (Phone: [phone]). They charge $3.75 per crystal and $5
> for shipping an order. Here are the part #'s for a TransWarp GS: (TWGS speed
> in parens) 32MHz (8MHz) SE1101, 36MHz (9MHz) SE1103, 40MHz (10MHz) SE1104.
>
>Q: What programming languages are available for the Apple ][?
>
>A: well..
>
>
>  Basic:    Applesoft (built-in to your computer!), which can be extended
>            with several utilities in commercial and non-commercial form.
>            To speed it up: Beagle Brother's Applesoft Compiler.
>            TML Basic, Micol Basic, or Z-Basic, which are BASIC development
>            packages.  Pecan Power System Basic.
>            GS-Basic, available through APDA.
>  Forth:    Purple Forth+, Q Forth+, Mad Apple Forth+, GS Forth, GraForth
>  Full C:   Orca C, APW C, and Manx Aztec C.  The first 2 are GS only.
>  Small C:  Hyper-C+ and a Small C that comes as an add-on
>            package with one of the assemblers.
>  Pascal:   Complete (formerly TML) Pascal, Orca/Pascal, Apple UCSD Pascal
>            and Quick Pascal (via APDA) and Pecan Power System's Pascal.
>  Assembly: Orca/M, Orca/M GS, APW, Merlin 8/16 Plus, Lisa+,  EDASM.
>  Other:    Pecan Power Systems Fortran. Lisp, Logo, Promal.  GS Scheme+
>                       (+ = share/freeware [available via FTP])
>
>Q: My GS control panel keeps resetting to the defaults and/or forgetting the
>     date.
>
>A: It's probably your battery. If you have a ROM 03 GS, you just pop it out an
> get another. On the ROM 01, you will need a Slide-On Battery Replacement Kit
> from Night Owl Productions. See address in 'Resources' section.
>
>Q: I want a Y-adapter for my GS keyboard.
>
>A: Redmond Cable has an ADB Y-connector cable for separating your mouse from
> the side of your keyboard (also can be used to work around a failing ADB port
> on the keyboard). See the 'Resources' section of this FAQ.
>
>Q: What programs are there for conversion of graphic images?
>
>A: There are quite a few:
>
> IIGIF is a freeware GIF converter for any Apple II (but there is a patch
>     needed for the Apple //c). It reads in GIF and saves as hires or
>     double-hires.
> MACDOWN is also freeware and lets you do the same with MacPaint pics.
> A ProDos 8 version of The Graphics Exchange (don't know much about it).
>      [The following software only work on an Apple IIGS]
> The Graphics Exchange (with library disk 1 - and soon with library disk 2 and
>     The RGB Exchange) converts between many formats of graphics.
> SuperConvert loads all GS formats, plus GIFS and other non-GS specific
>     formats and saves in all GS formats (including Finder Icon files). It has
>     more dithering options than most of the other programs, but you may have
>     to play with it to find the best one.
> SHRConvert is the earlier, shareware, predecessor to SuperConvert. It does a
>     pretty good job on the types of graphics it supports.
> Platinum Paint can import all GS formats (yes, even PrintShop) plus MacPaint.
>     It can only save in SHR and Apple Preferred. It can view (but not
>     make/edit) SHR animations.
> ShowPic 6 is a shareware NDA that can display most GS formats. You can also
>     save the resulting graphic as a IIGS SHR painting.
> Dream Grafix supports all 3200 color picture types and also 16 color and 256
>     color pictures. This is a very impressive paint program with its 3200
>     color support.
>      Note: 'All GS formats' includes Superhires (type $C1 and $C0), hires,
> double-hires and PrintShop/PrintShop GS.
>Q: I have an old CPM / PASCAL / DOS 3.3 disk. How do I get it into ProDos?
>
>A: The //e system software, the GS/OS system 6 DOS3.3 HFS FST, and Copy ][+
> can all convert Dos 3.3 files into ProDos. This is only helpful for text
> files, graphics, and some Basic programs. For ProDos, CPM, Pascal, Dos 3.3,
> try the program Chameleon. It's only drawback is that it does not recognize
> hard disks. (just have a ProDos floppy disk handy.)
>
>Q: How do you copy from a 5.25" disk to 3.5" disk?
>
>A: ProDos has no problems with this, as long as you copy by files. Note that
> ProDos can only have 51 files in the main directory. If you try to exceed
> that, it will give you a cryptic 'Disk Full' error. If there really is space
> left on the disk, you can copy all the files into a subdirectory to get
> around the 51-file limit. In theory, you can put an unlimited number of files
> in a Subdirectory, but in practice, you should limit them to 150 - 200 files
> (to avoid problems with certain programs).
>
>Q: Why does my Apple II lose characters when I'm using the modem?
>
>A: Check the following: 1) Your software may need interrupts enabled. Examine
> DIP Switch 2-6 on your Super Serial Card. 2) If you have an unenhanced //e,
> you need to enhance your //e. 3) If you have a //c, it may be one of the ones
> that had a serial port problem. Talk to your dealer about upgrading it for
> 2400 baud support.
>
>Q: What happened to Beagle Brothers?
>
>A: Beagle Brothers is alive and well, but concentrating on the Macintosh with
> their BeagleWorks package. The Apple // distributing is being handled by
> Quality Computers. That does not mean that it is the end. QC is supporting
> current BB packages, and will be expanding the TimeOut line of AppleWorks
> enhancements.
>
>Q: Is the Apple // dead?
>
>A: Old computers never die, they just get upgraded. Ok, ok, maybe not. But as
> long as the computer is still useful to you, it is not dead. In fact, despite
> the lack of advertising, there are some people at Apple supporting the II.
> Consider that this year alone, we have a new GS/OS, an improved HyperCard, a
> new ProDos (Don't expect V2.0, they said), a High Density 3.5" drive and
> controller, and an announcement for an EitherTalk card. Hmmm...
>
>Q: Yes, but isn't the Apple // wimpy? Isn't it old technology? Isn't 1 MHz
>     slow in today's computer world?
>
>A: You don't always need a 50 MHz computer to do word processing, or a 3-D
> relational spreadsheet to do checkbook balancing. Of course, I wouldn't use
> my Apple to run Mathmatica. Use the right tool for the job. The other part of
> it is that the Apple // is simple enough that one can take total control of
> it. Write directly to to screen. Re-write the operating system. Do cool
> hardware hacks with it. Write a simple basic 'guess-the-number' game.
> Whatever. The point is that many programmers write software for the Apple //
> because it is FUN as well as challenging.
>
>      As for the 'old' bit: the IBM PC was released well over a decade ago too.
> The GS is to an Apple II+ as the IBM 486 is to the IBM XT. (Ok, so maybe
> that's stretching it a bit). As for speed, you can't directly compare those
> because the underlying processors are different. The Apple gets more done in
> 1 clock cycle than the IBM processor. Really, the only speed that matters is
> REAL time. Windows and fancy graphics can really load a computer down. Even
> though hardware is getting faster and better, software is getting larger and
> slower. You can't win. Compare the time to start up the following word
> processors: FrameMaker on a Sun SparcStation (30 seconds), M.S. Word on a Mac
> (2 seconds) classic AppleWorks on my GS (instantly --I have a RamFast ;).
>
>
>Topic:  System 6.0 mini-FAQ
>==========================================
>
>
>Subtopic:  Common Problems
>------------------------------------------
>
>      Some programs are incompatible with CloseView. Symptoms are the mouse
> wipes out everything it moves over. Remove CloseView or inactivate it in the
> system folder. May still cause troubles if active, but set to 'off'. See GS
> Technote #91.
>      EasyAccess is also incompatible with some applications, (especially on
> ROM 01). Symptoms are a locked keyboard, and not being able to reboot. Remove
> it or make it inactive.
>      Missing features of system 6? Perhaps you just used easy install, which
> doesn't install all the bells and whistles. Try clicking on customize and add
> the nifty things like Calculator, Find File, HFS FST, etc. You can also read
> the Shortcuts file on SystemTools2 for some great keyboard shortcuts.
>      Finder icons that match by name and have a leading wildcard require
> uppercase letters. For example, a name like "*.txt" never matches, but
> "*.TXT" works fine (it matches regardless of a file's actual capitalization).
> (This was accidental; the 5.0.4 Finder did not care about capitalization in
> icon files.)
>      Two misconceptions about System 6: The A2.RAMCARD is not for the GS's
> /RAM5. It only works with "slinky" (i.e. standard slot) cards. Also, the DOS
> 3.3 FST has nothing to do with MS-DOS.
>
>Subtopic:  Tips & Hints
>------------------------------------------
>
>      The AppleShare logon programs have always looked for a folder named
> "Mail" inside your user folder whenever you log onto a user volume. If
> there's any items in there, they present a dialog that says "You have mail."
> Under SSW 6.0, that also sends a SysBeep2 request so you can get the sound of
> your choice.
>      If you don't want to see your icons on boot, set bit 1 (i.e. the 2nd LSB)
> of BRAM Location $5F. Be sure not to mess with the other bits. Use the
> toolbox calls!
>      The FinderExtras folder goes in the same folder as the Finder (generally
> *:System).
>      If you don't like yellow folders in the Finder you can change the byte at
> offset +65 in the Finder resource with type $C001 and ID 1. Change the $E0 to
> whatever you want (the first digit is the default folder foreground color,
> and the low nibble is for the outline color). Only folders that do *not*
> already have a color recorded in a Finder.Data file get the default color.
>
>Subtopic:  If you have a RamFast
>------------------------------------------
>
>      The RamFast and ProDos 2.0.1 both try to do re-mapping of drives to
> unused slots. This can cause problems, mostly when launching and returning
> from ProDos 8 applications (crashes or wants you to insert disk). Solution:
> Configure the RamFast not to re-map. If you have a RamFAST with a ROM
> revision less than 2.01a, you need to get a newer ROM from CVT. Otherwise,
> V2.01c allows setting Slot Priority Allocations to 0 which will let ProDos
> deal with them. V3.0 allows you to choose between RamFast mapping (works now)
> and ProDos 8 mapping. If you can't wait, you can Patch ProDos 2.0 not to
> re-map slots. Look for "10 BF C9 A5 D0 07" and change the $A5 to $00 (should
> be byte $1A3 in the 5th block of the file). Hack at your own risk.
>
>Subtopic:  If you have a Vulcan or AE High Density disk
>------------------------------------------
>
>      Due to problems with the Vulcan, when booting, it asks for your System
> Disk. Just put the Vulcan driver on your boot disk, boot it, and then launch
> the installer. Alternately, put the driver on the installer disk and boot it.
> (but you have to delete some of the installer scripts first) For the AE High
> Density Drive, be sure to remove Apple's 3.5" driver when putting on AE's.
>
>Subtopic:  If you have ProSel
>------------------------------------------
>
>      Rename start to something else before running the installer, or else the
> Finder won't be installed. Believe me, you don't want to miss out on Finder
> 6.0!
>
>Subtopic:  If you have an AMR 3.5"
>------------------------------------------
>
>      If the computer hangs (mostly at the Standard File dialogue box) with no
> disk in the drive, try putting one in. What's happening is that GS is reading
> the status from the drive, and the drive won't return anything unless there
> is a disk in the drive. Just stick a disk in and all will be fine. If it
> really annoys you, either deactive the 3.5" driver (get IR so you can
> double-click to re-activate it) or simply keep a disk in the drive at all
> times. This is not a problem under ProDos 8.
>
>Subtopic:  GSCII+ & HFS Note
>------------------------------------------
>
>      There is a problem with the HFS FST, but only GSCII seems to be affected.
> When de-binscii-ing files, put the output onto a ProDos volume, not an HFS
> one.
>      [ Mega-thanks to Dave Lyons & friends for these. ]
>
>
>Topic:  What to do with an Apple ][?
>==========================================
>
>Q: What can you hook up to an Apple ][?
>
>A: Hard Drives, Scanners, Video Digitizers, Laser Printers, Video Overlay
> Cards, Tape backups, Inkjet Printers, 24 pin Dot Matrix Printers, EPROM
> Burners, AppleTalk Networks, High Density 3.5" drives, serial cards, parallel
> cards, audio Digitizers, CP/M boards (Z-80 processor), an IBM-on-a-card, 9600
> baud modems, D/A and A/D cards, joysticks, mice, graphics tablets, touch
> screens, extended keyboards, track balls, several Megabytes of RAM, Real-time
> clocks, and of course, Users!
>
>      This list is by no means exhaustive: This is just what I personally have
> done. All of it is available NOW, and can be done on any Apple //e. In the
> very near future, you will be able to hook up:
>      EitherTalk Networks, DSP boards, cheap IBM disk drives, and cheap FAX
> modems.
>Q: What can you do with an Apple ][?
>
>A: As if the above weren't impressive, how about: Optical Character
> recognition, Desktop publishing, Integrated Spread sheet, Database and Word
> Processing, Interactive fiction adventure games, Arcade quality games,
> Educational games, Programming, Telecommunications, Inventory, Accounting,
> Money Management, and that's not even scratching the surface.
>
>Q: What can the //e can "borrow" from other computers? (w/the right software)
>
>A: GS bitmapped fonts, Mac Disks, MacPaint pictures, GIF pictures, just about
> any Mac SCSI device (Hard Drives, Tape backup), Mac sounds?, many archive
> formats (like uudecode), any serial device (EPROM burners, FAX modems,
> mega-fast modems w/ MNP5), etc.
>
>Q: What can the GS can "borrow" from other computers? (w/the right software)
>
>A: Mac bitmapped fonts, Mac Icons, Mac and Windows TrueType fonts, Mac Disks,
> Amiga Mod songs, MacPaint pictures, MacWrite documents, GIF pictures,
> WordPerfect documents, just about any Mac SCSI or ADB device (including Hard
> Drives, Pen Mice, etc), Mac sounds, Many archive formats (.uu, .zip, .arc,
> .sit, .hqx, etc), any serial device (EPROM burners, FAX modems, mega- fast
> modems w/hardware MNP-5), etc.
>
>      If you are interested in doing any of the above, feel free to e-mail me
> ([e-mail]). Someday, maybe I'll fill in the specific
> software or hardware you need to do any of the above. If you have any
> additions, let me know too!
>
>
>Topic:  Resources for the Apple II:
>==========================================
>
>      Listed below are some places to get information about the Apple II.
>      Be sure and check your local user group (and the user group library).
>      There's also the FTP sites...
>      To find the closest Apple II (or Macintosh) User Group near you, contact:
>
>       The Apple User Group Connection      Phone:
>       Apple Computer, Inc.                 [phone], extension 500
>       20525 Mariani Avenue, MS:36-AA
>       Cupertino, CA 95014
>
>      InCider/A+ is a monthly Apple II/Macintosh magazine. Although their Apple
> II coverage is shaky at best, you can find a lot of Apple II ads in there.
>
>     InCider/A+
>     P.O. Box 56818
>     Boulder, CO 80322-8618
>
>      A2-Central is a tiny monthly publication, but it is packed with
> information. It has technical discussions and philosophical discussions. It
> is also available on disk, with many PD/SW programs each month. They also
> publish many monthly disks, including ones for HyperStudio users, TimeOut
> users, HyperCard users, and probably others. All are on 3.5" disk only.
>
>     A2-Central                             [phone]
>     P.O. Box 11250                         [phone] (FAX)
>     Overland Park, KS  66207
>
>     GEnie: A2-CENTRAL, UNCLE-DOS, or DENNIS.DOMS
>
>      APDA (Apple Programmers and Developers) is the place to get the latest
> and greatest from Apple and third party vendors. They have many programming
> tools and debugging aids not available anywhere else. You can get their
> catalog for free just by calling. They sell the Tool 35 docs w/SynthLab, the
> Video Overlay Card Development Kit, GSBug and other debugging tools, d e v e
> l o p (The Apple Technical Journal with developers help on a CD-ROM), and
> many other wonderful products.
>
>  APDA                                      [phone] (U.S.)
>  Apple Computer, Inc.                      [phone] (Canada)
>  20525 Mariani Avenue, Mail Stop 33G       [phone] (International)
>  Cupertino, California 95014-6299          [phone] (FAX)
>                                            171-576 (Telex)
>
> AppleLink: APDA   GEnie: A.DEVELOPER3   Compuserve: 76666,2405   MCI: POSTROM
> MacNet: APDA
>
>      You can become an associate in the Apple Developer Program for $350 (for
> Mac and Apple II) or a mere $150 (for Apple II only) by calling
> 1-408-974-4897. That gets you Develop magazine, Apple Technical notes, the
> Apple Developer CD, discounts on Apple products, and more! If you want to
> license Apple Software for distribution with your product you can get
> information by calling 1-408-974-4667. (Note: You need a license to
> distribute Apple System Software, including ProDOS, and the Installer.)
>      Apple has a toll-free customer assistance line for handling sales
> questions and user concerns. This toll-free line is not designed to be a
> technical support hotline, but instead is an extension to the comprehensive
> Apple customer relations effort. The Customer Assistance Center is open
> Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific time by dialing
> 1-800-776-2333.
>      GS+ is published bi-monthly, as a magazine and as an accompanying disk.
> They are a great source for shareware and PD programs, some which are not
> available anywhere else. They also have reviews of new software. Of course,
> it's GS specific.
>
>       GS+ Subscription Services            [phone] (orders only)
>       c/o EGO Systems                      [phone]
>       P.O. Box 15366                       [phone] (FAX)
>       Chattanooga, Tennessee  37415-0366
>
>       Email: [e-mail]
>
>      Hyperstudio Network is a quarterly newsletter about HyperStudio. They put
> out an annual 'Best of HyperStudio' disk of stacks, and have discounts on
> HyperStudio accessories. They even do some teacher-oriented stuff.
>
>       HyperStudio Network                  Phone:
>       Box 103                              [phone]
>       Blawenburg, NJ 08504
>
>      II Sysops is a bi-monthly newsletter for Bulletin Board System Operators.
> It explores every aspect of running a BBS, from the technical issues, to
> legal issues, to sysop policy. They even have board-by-board news on the
> major BBS's.
>
>      II Sysops
>      P.O. Box 720
>      Eldersburg, MD 21784
>
>      The Road Apple - An Apple // "End Users" Underground Newsletter.
> Published bi-monthly.
>
>      1121 NE 177th, Suite B                Phone:
>      Portland, OR 97230                    [phone].
>
>      Computist is a publication devoted to gathering and distributing
> information on removing copy protection from Apple II software.
>
>      P.O. Box 110846
>      Tacoma, WA  98411
>
>      Softdisk and Softdisk GS - monthly disk magazines containing a variety of
> software (PD/SW, clip art, reviews, etc). Softdisk is available on 5.25" or
> 3.5" disks. Softdisk GS is available only on 3.5" disks.
>
>       Softdisk Publishing                  Phone:
>       P.O. Box 30008                       [phone]
>       Shreveport, LA 71130-0008            [phone]
>
>
>      USUS is an international non-profit organization dedicated to promoting
> and influencing software standards to aid in the development of portable
> software. They have a large software library including a lot of source code
> (for almost every language or computer).
>
>       Keith Frederick (Secretary), USUS Inc.,
>       P.O. Box 1148
>       La Jolla, CA 92038
>
>      Night Owl makes a slide-on battery for ROM 01 GS's.
>
>  Nite Owl Productions                      Phone:
>  Slide-On Battery Dept.                    [phone]
>  5734 Lamar Street
>  Mission, KS 66202
>
>      Redmond cable makes and sells all sorts of custom cables.
>
>  Redmond Cable Corporation                 Phone:
>  17371-A1 NE 67th Ct                       [phone].
>  Redmond, WA 98052,
>
>      Quality Computers not only sells Apple II products, but maintains a list
> of user groups and publishes an informative newsletter geared towards
> educators (called Enhance). To get a QC catalog and a free subscription to
> Enhance, just call or write.
>
>    Quality Computers                       (800) 777-ENHAnce
>    20200 E. 9 Mile Road                    [phone] (International)
>    Box 665                                 [phone] (FAX)
>    St. Clair Shores, MI  48080             [phone] (Technical Support)
>
>      NAUG, the National AppleWorks Users Group is a group devoted to that
> wonder program, AppleWorks. You can get info by calling 313-454-1115
> (Michigan). Anybody know their address?
>     (More resources to be added as I think of them. Email suggestions to
> [e-mail]. as always, let me know of any mistakes, updates,
> corrections, additions, etc.)
>
>
>Topic:  General guidelines on How To Troubleshoot
>==========================================
>
> First, resist the temptation to install all your new toys at once. Take it
>     one step at a time and test everything after adding each item.
> Leave the computer plugged in, but turned off when installing cards. Touch
>     the power supply before and often during your work. Better yet, use a
>     wrist strap tied to ground through a 1 Megaohm resistor.
> When asking others for help, it is essential to know the EXACT error message
>     you are getting. Also, be as specific as possible. Saying "It did not
>     work" or "I could not get any farther" is not helpful. Exactly which
>     screen did it stop at? Does it respond to any input at all? What had you
>     done up to that point? Is it reproducible any other way?
> Make sure you have the required components for the program. Does it require
>     an Enhanced //e? More RAM? A separate boot disk?
> Never use your original disks. Make a backups and store the write-protected
>     originals in a safe place.
> Be sure to keep your disks away from stray magnetic fields emanating from
>     phones, monitors and speakers.
> If you have an accelerator, try to disable it or take it out entirely. It may
>     not be compatible with the new item.
> Is the problem re-producible? If so, what are the MINIMUM actions to
>     reproduce it?
> Check all your cable connections. Do not disconnect or connect any cables
>     with the computer on.
> Try pulling out other cards and disconnect your joystick. If you have a lot
>     of cards, you might consider a Heavy-Duty Power Supply from A.E. It
>     supplies 6 Amps instead of a measly 2.5 Amps. Test the power supply with
>     a voltmeter while the computer is on.
> Call the manufacturer to see if there is an upgrade or a fix.
>
>Subtopic:  Trouble shooting and good maintenance
>------------------------------------------
>
> Try the system test: hold down the Control key, the Open Apple key, and the
>     Option (or Solid Apple) key. Then press and release Reset. Lastly, let up
>     on the other keys. Sit back and 'Watchen Der Blinken Lighten.'
> Most RAM cards come with a memory tester. Try running it in continuous mode
>     for several hours, even if your RAM seems to be working.
> Write down your configuration when you have it working (for future
>     reference).
> Verify your disk(s) with Copy ][+ or the Finder to see if you have any bad
>     blocks.
>
>Subtopic:  GS Trouble shooting
>------------------------------------------
>
> Check your control panel settings: What is the startup slot set to? Is the
>     slot set to "Your Card"? Check your RAM disk setting. Is it taking up all
>     your memory? Try setting the speed to normal if it's a non-GS program.
> Take out or disable your INITS, CDAs, NDAs, and CDEVS. (With System 6, just
>     hold down Shift while booting).
> If you have a hard disk, try booting from a System Disk and/or re-install the
>     latest system software. Many random problems can be traced to corrupted
>     or improperly installed system software.
> Never connect/disconnect an ADB device when the computer is on.
> AppleWorks GS comes with a memory tester (try it).
> The TransWarp GS has a continuous test on the CDA (try it too).
>
>
>Topic:  SCSI
>==========================================
>
>      SCSI is a protocol (kind of like serial or parallel) that lets you hook
> up several devices (up to 8) on a SCSI bus (a bus is just a series of wires).
> You must give each device it's own unique ID number from 0-7. The SCSI card
> is usually set to 7. There are two types of SCSI cables: the 50 pin
> Centronics-type (like on parallel printers) or the 25-pin "D" connector. The
> 50-pin is the SCSI standard, the 25-pin is the Apple standard. On a SCSI
> chain, there must be a Terminator at each end. A Terminator is just a bunch
> of resistors. Some drives have internal terminators (3 small yellow-orange
> packs), and some drives come with an external terminator (a "plug" to put on
> the back of the drive). Also, somebody on the bus must supply terminator
> power (one of the SCSI lines). If There are any problems (multiple things
> with the same ID, too much termination or not enough, or no terminator
> power), you may be able to use the drive, but your data will get corrupted.
> Most of the time, the computer will refuse to recognize the drive.
>      At first, there was the Apple Rev 'C' SCSI card (named after the final
> ROM version--all previous versions MUST be upgraded to work with current
> software). There were several clones from the likes of CMS and Chinook. Then
> Apple came out with it's High Speed DMA SCSI card. This has the ability to do
> Direct Memory Access to the RAM in your computer, which speeds things up.
> This created a lot of problems with cards that were not DMA compatible. CV
> Technologies also has a DMA SCSI card called the RamFast. This card has 256K
> or 1MB of on-board RAM to make it even faster than Apple's card. It can also
> supply terminator power if you drive does not supply it. Both of the new
> cards support things like SCSI tape backup units, removable SCSI drives, SCSI
> CD-ROM, and of course SCSI hard drives. Both the new cards also require an
> Enhanced //e.
>
>Subtopic:  Tips on setting up a SCSI system:
>------------------------------------------
>
> You can have multiple drives on one SCSI card, just make sure you remove the
>     termination on all the drives but the last one. This is because the newer
>     SCSI cards are terminated (and they count as a SCSI device).
> Always check that the cords are plugged in properly. Never connect/disconnect
>     anything when the computer is on.
> The computer will boot the hard drive with the highest SCSI ID, which should
>     be ID 6.
> Try letting the drive 'warm up' for 15 seconds before turning the computer
>     on. The SCSI cards look for drives only at startup, and may ignore any
>     drives that are not ready.
> Try turning off DMA. If this helps, you may have a non-DMA compatible card,
>     such as the early versions of the TransWarp, early versions of the GS
>     RAM, or any 8-bit accelerator.
> Check that each device has a unique ID. Most drives have a thumbwheel on the
>     back to set the ID. Your SCSI card (yes, it counts too) is probably ID 7.
>     Number your drives from 6 downwards for best compatibility. The IDs have
>     nothing to do with what slot the card is in.
> Is there a terminator at each end of the SCSI bus? (the DMA cards are
>     terminated, and some drives are internally terminated.)
> Try the software that came with the card. It may give helpful diagnostic
>     messages (I.E. the Apple DMA SCSI utilities-- Does it say "No Apple SCSI
>     card found" or "No SCSI devices found"?)
> Do you get the message "Unable to Load ProDos"? If so, it's booting your
>     drive but you have no system software on it. Try hitting Control-Reset,
>     then PR#5 (or PR#6) to boot a floppy. Then install the system software
>     (i.e. ProDos or GS/OS).
> In extreme cases, try reformatting the drive, repartitioning, and
>     re-installing the System software.
> If the drive access light blinks in a regular pattern before the computer is
>     turned on, it is telling you that it has a hardware malfunction. It needs
>     to be serviced.
> Did you try re-installing the System software? Many times, the data on a
>     drive will get corrupted if you run the drive with improper terminators
>     or conflicting SCSI ID's. Sometimes you will not notice the corrupted
>     data until after you fix the problem. If re-installing the System
>     software helps, it was probably a software problem, not a hardware
>     problem.
> The Apple HS DMA SCSI card requires an Enhanced //e. It will not work on the
>     older //e without an Enhancement Kit.
> To really put a drive through it's paces, copy a LOT of stuff from one
>     partition to another (copy the entire partition if you can). If there is
>     a problem with DMA or SCSI ID's, it will probably show up as a strange
>     GS/OS error. (GS only)
> Make sure you do not have the Apple SCSI drivers installed if you have a
>     RamFast. It may cause random problems (they leave an interrupt handler
>     dangling if they can't find their card.) (GS only)
> Make sure you are booting the right slot. If the card is in slot 7, you can
>     set the startup slot to Scan or 7. (GS only)
> If you boot up and only 1 partition shows up, you need to install the SCSI
>     drivers. (GS only)
> If you boot up and it says "Drive XXX is already on the desktop" over and
>     over: Probably a SCSI ID problem. (GS only)
>
>
>======================================================================
>[note: the umich archive is down now. Don't know how long tho.]
>This FAQ will be available on-line at apple2.archive.umich.edu and via
>AFS (in /afs/umich.edu/group/itd/archive/apple2). Permission granted to
>copy portions into non-profit User Group newsletters.
>
>This FAQ is also in transition. Any additions/corrections/suggestions
>would be appreciated.  Also, if this FAQ has helped you, e-mail me
>and let me know!
>
>FAQ Revised July 17,1992 by Dan DeMaggio ([e-mail])
>--
>      -=- Dan DeMaggio -=- [e-mail] -=-
>"That is really incredible. That is truly incredible.  That is so
>incredibly incredible that I think I'd like to steal it." -Zaphod


RE: FAQ

I think that we all should give a great big round of applause to Dan
Demaggio for the great job he's doing with the monthly FAQ.

Good job, Dan!! Keep it up.

Joe kohn