Nebula 1994 June/NEBULA_SE.ISO/Documents/FAQ/OS2-faq/user/part2

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From: [e-mail] (Timothy F. Sipples)
Subject: OS/2 Frequently Asked Questions List Rel. 2.1C (2 of 4)
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Archive-name: os2-faq/user/part2
Version: 2.1C

[Part 2 of 4]

to customize refresh rates for your particular monitor.] }}


  Related information:

  (2.5) Specific Hardware Recommendations
  (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources
  (5.8) Displaying Background Bitmaps


(2.3) Printer Support

 Will OS/2 2.1 work with my printer?

OS/2 2.1 includes support for Hewlett-Packard LaserJets (including the
LaserJet 4 series), DeskJets (including the new 1200C and 510 models), and
PaintJets; IBM/Lexmark ExecJets, InkJets, Proprinters, Quickwriters,
Quietwriters, Pageprinters, and Laserprinters; Epson dot matrix, ink jet,
and laser printers; Postscript devices; and other printers (e.g.
Panasonic, Okidata) compatible with these families.  A variety of IBM and
HP plotters (including HPGL/2 plotters) is also supported.  Drivers for NEC
dot matrix printers and Canon laser and BubbleJet printers are now
available for download [See (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources or contact
the Canon Support BBS at 714-438-3325].  {{ Most BubbleJet printers also
work quite well with either the IBM 4072 ExecJet or IBM 4072 InkJet driver.
If your printer model is not listed when you install OS/2 2.1, consult your
Using the Operating System manual starting on Page 351 for advice.  Or
check your printer's manual to see if the printer emulates one of the
models that is listed.  }}

DOS/Windows printer drivers continue to work for DOS/Windows applications.
OS/2 2.1 includes a large assortment of Windows printer drivers for
Win-OS/2.  If necessary install Windows printer drivers using the Win-OS/2
Control Panel.  OS/2 2.1 and OS/2 1.3 printer drivers are interchangeable
in many cases.

If your printer is not compatible with one of the drivers supplied with
OS/2, check with the printer manufacturer first then with (3.2) Shareware
and Freeware Sources.  If you own an IBM printer, check with the Lexmark
BBS (modem 606-232-5653).  {{ Drivers for older IBM printers (including the
original IBM 5152 Graphics Printer) are available from (3.2) Shareware and
Freeware Sources.  }}

If you are using a Postscript printer, and you are having difficulty
printing under Win-OS/2 3.1, particularly over a network, try adding the
following line to the Postscript section of your WIN.INI file:

 CtrlD=0

If you are having trouble printing generally, see the configuration advice
in (4.1) Installation for assistance.


 Related information:

 (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources
 (4.1) Installation


(2.4) COM3 and COM4 Support

 Can I use COM3 and COM4 in OS/2?

COM3 and COM4 are supported on most PS/2s without any additional effort.
On {{ ISA, EISA, and VESA LocalBus }} machines, some additions are required
to CONFIG.SYS.  Using a text editor, include "(port number, base address,
interrupt number)" parameters next to the COM.SYS and VCOM.SYS filenames.
One example:

 DEVICE=C:\OS2\COM.SYS (3,3E8,5) (4,2E8,10)
 DEVICE=C:\OS2\MDOS\VCOM.SYS (3,3E8,5) (4,2E8,10)

Parameters for COM1 and COM2 need not be included (unless they are somehow
nonstandard).  OS/2 must end up with sequentially numbered logical COM
ports, if possible.  For example, if (physical) port two is not installed
but port three or port four is installed, start numbering using (2,...)  in
the DEVICE lines.  See the OS/2 2.1 Using the Operating System manual,
starting on Page 374, for more information on COM ports under OS/2.  If
these efforts fail, try the SIO drivers [available from (3.2) Shareware and
Freeware Sources].  Note that IRQ 2 is actually redirected to IRQ 9 on the
AT bus, so use (...,...,9) in the above COM.SYS and VCOM.SYS settings if
your serial port is set to use IRQ 2.

AT bus COM ports cannot be used at the same time if they share interrupts
because of bus design limitations (cf.  "Under the Hood:  How Interrupts
Work," Byte, February, 1992).  An adapter which provides more flexibility
in interrupt selection [e.g.  the 16-bit model from STB; See (2.5) Specific
Hardware Recommendations] may prove helpful.  Also, PolyCom, a replacement
driver available from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources, supports up to
eight ports with the right hardware {{ (Xenix-compatible multiport
adapters) }}.

"Smart" (coprocessor controlled) multiport communication adapters should be
used when installing more than four ports.  Such an adapter will work with
OS/2 if the manufacturer has written an appropriate driver.  Examples
include:

  Company           Telephone Number

  IBM (ARTIC)       (800) PS2-2227
  Digiboard         [phone]
  Stargate          [phone]
  Arnet             [phone]
  Computone         [phone]
  Comtrol           [phone]
  CTC Systems       [phone]
  Equinox           [phone]
  I-Concepts        [phone]
  Specialix         [phone]
  Stallion          [phone]


  Related information:

  (2.5) Specific Hardware Recommendations
  (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources


(2.5) Specific Hardware Recommendations

 Are there any specific hardware recommendations?

Here are some of the peripherals and adapters that are particularly well
suited to OS/2.  Some true bargains are included.  Prices do not include
shipping and handling.

o CatsEye/X XGA-2 Adapter.  An AT bus display adapter with the latest IBM
P2 XGA-2 chipset, providing superior performance and the best driver
support under OS/2.  Price:  $249 from FutureComm (phone [phone] or
FAX [phone]; ask for John Jaser).  {{ Or contact Synaptec
(61-2-555-9560 or FAX [phone]).  }} A Microchannel version is
available from IBM for a comparable price.

o ATI 8514/A Compatible Display Adapters.  Harmony Computers (phone
800-441-1144 or 718-692-2828) is advertising two of ATI's 8514/A hardware
compatible Mach8 display adapters.  Both operate in 1024x768 256 color mode
at up to 72 Hz noninterlaced using the OS/2 8514/A driver.  (Confirm,
though, that these adapters have the full megabyte of video memory for the
Mach8 processor, required for OS/2 operation.)  The ATI 8514/Ultra ($179)
is designed to work in both Microchannel and AT bus machines and, while it
uses fast VRAM video memory, it does not contain onboard VGA circuitry.  A
separate VGA or SuperVGA display adapter, with passthrough connector, is
required.  The ATI Graphics Ultra ($199) also uses VRAM, has onboard
SuperVGA circuitry, and works with AT bus computers.  {{ Data Products and
Services (phone [phone]) offers OEM versions of the ATI Graphics Ultra
Plus 2 MB ($209), Graphics Ultra Pro 2 MB ($315), Graphics Ultra Pro EISA 2
MB ($329), and Graphics Ultra Pro VESA LocalBus 2 MB ($315).  }} The ATI
GUP includes the more recent (and faster) Mach32 coprocessor, yet it is
still 8514/A hardware compatible.  Computer Discount Warehouse (tel.
800-795-4239, FAX [phone]) sells the ATI Graphics Vantage (an AT bus,
DRAM version of the original Graphics Ultra) for only $158.41.

o Intel OverDrive Processors.  {{ Intel and IBM have teamed up to provide
inexpensive Intel OverDrive upgrade processors.  Each processor comes with
a free copy of IBM OS/2 2.1 on your choice of media.  OverDrive processors
are 486DX compatible, clock doubled CPUs designed for systems with
OverDrive sockets.  Versions are available for 33 MHz ($549), 25 MHz
($399), and 20 MHz and below ($299) systems.  Call 800-621-3117 by
September 14 for more information or to order.  }}

o NEC CD-ROM Drives.  {{ ITG Computers (tel.  [phone] or FAX
708-259-1130) is selling NEC CDR-73 ($225), CDR-83 ($205), CDR-74 ($315),
and CDR-84 ($295) SCSI CD-ROM drives.  The CDR-73 (external) and CDR-83
(internal) feature an average access time of about 350 ms and a 150K/second
data transfer rate.  The CDR-74 (external) and CDR-84 (internal) increase
the data transfer rate to 300K/second and add Kodak Photo CD compatibility.
Some models are refurbished.  Or you may wish to order the CDR-37
(portable, caddyless, 150K/second, 450 ms, Photo CD) for just $139 from JEM
(phone [phone]).  Say "Summer Sizzler" when ordering.  Finally, MPS
Multimedia (phone [phone], or FAX [phone]) sells
the CDR-55 (300K/second, 340 ms, Photo CD) for $299 (internal) or $379
(external).  }}

o Toshiba CD-ROM Drive.  The latest, super fast (200 ms average access
time; 300K+/second sustained data transfer rate) Toshiba CD-ROM drive,
Model XM-3401, is available from many dealers for about $500 (internal
model; external model is priced higher).  The Toshiba is the best choice
when performance is critical.

o SCSI Adapters Two good values are the Adaptec 1522 (available for {{ $79
from Smart Computer Systems, tel.  [phone] or FAX [phone]) }} and
the Future Domain 1680 (only $129 from Computability, phone [phone] or
FAX [phone]).  Both are 16-bit AT bus SCSI-2 adapters with on board
diskette controllers {{ (which can be disabled if necessary) }}, and both
are supported by drivers that ship with OS/2 2.1.  Neither use DMA [see
(2.6) More Than 16 MB RAM].  {{ Other possibilities include the bus
mastering, AT bus, Adaptec 1540B ($100 from Discount Electronics Trading
Int'l, tel.  [phone] or FAX [phone]) and the Microchannel Adaptec
1640 ($139 from Discount Electronics Trading Int'l).  These, too, are
supported by drivers included with OS/2 2.1 itself.  For EISA and LocalBus
systems, consider BusLogic SCSI adapters (which come with OS/2 2.1 drivers
and complete instructions).  }}

o Wangtek Tape Drives.  Super Technologies (phone [phone]) offers a
seven month warranty on several Wangtek SCSI tape drives.  The Wangtek
5150ES (250 MB) is $295, the 5525ES ( 525 MB) is $495, and the 6200HS (2 GB
DAT) model is $650.  All will work with GTAK tape backup software [See
(3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources] when attached to an OS/2 supported
SCSI adapter.

o Irwin Accutrack Tape Drive with EZTape/PM.  Several dealers offer the
Irwin Accutrack series of tape drives bundled with EZTape for DOS, Windows,
and OS/2.  Prices start at about $200.

o 16550AFN Buffered UART Serial Port Adapters.  Improves high speed serial
communications performance.  Price:  $35 for a two port adapter from
Zero-One Networking (phone [phone]).  Ask about adapters with parallel
ports.

o Four Port 16550AFN Buffered UART Serial Adapter.  The STB 4-COM adapter
is available for {{ $110 }} delivered by calling 800-735-5266 Ext.  64.
The 16-bit STB adapter provides four buffered serial ports, each with an
independently selectable interrupt and address.  IRQs above 7 are supported
for each port.  Up to two of these adapters may be installed in the same
system (for up to eight buffered serial ports).  Four six inch 8-pin DIN to
DB9 male converter cables are supplied.  Fifteen month manufacturer's
warranty and free technical support from STB.

o Creative Labs SoundBlaster.  Original (Revision 2.0), Pro, and 16ASP
models are available from many suppliers and provide audio output for OS/2
multimedia applications.  {{ The original SoundBlaster ($50; confirm
Revision 2.0 or later; speakers $5 extra) and SoundBlaster Pro ($90 with
free speakers) are available from Stata (tel.  [phone] or FAX
510-656-9891).  }}

o IBM M-Audio Adapter.  Available in either AT bus or Microchannel models
for the same price.  Provides compact disc quality audio reproduction and
recording capabilities under OS/2.  Price:  $235 from IBM Direct (phone
800-IBM-2YOU).

o MediaVision ProAudio Spectrum 16.  The PAS 16, as it is known, offers
compact disc quality audio reproduction and recording capabilities and an
on board SCSI port (for CD-ROM drives and other peripherals).  Available
from several dealers for about $150.  The Logitech SoundMan 16 is identical
to the PAS 16 (and sometimes less expensive), although it does not include
a SCSI port.  MediaVision's new ProAudio Studio, a more expensive adapter,
is also supported under OS/2 2.1.  All three are AT bus adapters.

o Ethernet Adapters.  {{ While supplies last, Accton Technology Corp.
(800-926-9288, 510-226-9800, or FAX [phone]) is selling their 16-bit
ISA NE2000 compatible ethernet adapters for only $29 each (plus $5 shipping
per order).  Limit two per customer; United States and Canadian customers
only.  }}


  Related information:

  (2.1) Hardware Requirements
  (2.2) SuperVGA Support
  (2.4) COM3 and COM4 Support
  (2.6) More Than 16 MB RAM
  (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources


(2.6) More Than 16 MB of RAM

 Can I use more than 16 MB of RAM?

OS/2 2.1 will address all the RAM in your system.  If the BIOS recognizes
the memory, OS/2 will find it and use it.

However, on certain systems the RAM beyond the 16 MB boundary may be used
as a fast swap area.  OS/2 relies on its swap file, SWAPPER.DAT, to hold
code and data which cannot fit into real memory (i.e.  to provide virtual
memory).  If the swap file {{ (and applications) }} can only be accessed
via a hard disk adapter which uses 24-bit DMA for disk access (e.g.  the
Adaptec 154x series), then the system must move code and data below the 16
MB boundary before it can write it to disk.  This "double move" is costly
(in terms of performance), and often OS/2 will merely use all the RAM above
the 16 MB boundary as a fast swap area (before writing to disk) to avoid
the problem.  It is up to the hard disk adapter driver, however, to decide
how to handle this situation.

Only AT bus adapters are limited to 24-bit DMA.  Microchannel, EISA, {{
VESA LocalBus, }} and other 32-bit adapters are not so limited.  Moreover,
only a select few AT bus hard disk adapters utilize DMA.  Nearly all MFM,
RLL, and IDE adapters, and many SCSI adapters, do not use DMA for disk
access.

Suffice it to say that, regardless of your present hardware, OS/2 will take
advantage of it as best it can.  However, if you are planning new hardware
purchases, you may wish to take this particular hardware design limitation
into account.  Specifically, if you plan to install more than 16 MB of RAM
in your system, either choose a 32-bit hard disk adapter (Microchannel or
EISA, for example) or choose an AT bus adapter which does not utilize DMA
for disk access (a standard IDE adapter, an Adaptec 152x series SCSI
adapter, or a Future Domain SCSI adapter, for example).  {{ The performance
trade-off is highly system dependent, however.  You may find that even DMA
adapters such as the Adaptec 154x series outperform the alternatives in
certain cases.  }}


 Related information:

 (2.5) Specific Hardware Recommendations


(2.7) Device Driver Availability

 What device drivers are available that aren't included with OS/2?

{{ Here is a list of device drivers (and their common filenames) available
from (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources:

(This section will be completed in a future release of the OS/2 Frequently
Asked Questions List.)  }}


 Related information:

 (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources


(3.0) Software

 The following questions are addressed in this section:

 (3.1)  What applications are available for OS/2?

 (3.2)  Where can I obtain OS/2 shareware and freeware?

 (3.3)  What are the "must have" shareware and freeware titles?

 (3.4)  Is there a Norton Utilities for OS/2?

 (3.5)  I would like to set up an OS/2 BBS.  What is available?

 (3.6)  What do I need for OS/2 multimedia applications?

 (3.7)  Should I worry about viruses when running OS/2 2.1?

 (3.8)  What networking products are available for OS/2 2.1?

 (3.9)  What is Extended Services?

 (3.10)  Are there any special software offers I should know about?

 (3.11) What backup software is available?

 (3.12) What multiuser extensions and security options are available?

 (3.13)  What on-the-fly disk compression software is available?

 (3.14)  Are there any dealers that specialize in OS/2 products?


(3.1) Applications

 What applications are available for OS/2?

In addition to the thousands of applications available for DOS and Windows,
there are a couple thousand OS/2-specific applications representing almost
every category imaginable.

The DOS/Windows applications with 16-bit OS/2-specific counterparts
include:

  o Aldus

     - Pagemaker

  o AutoDesk

     - AutoCAD

  o Borland

     - Sidekick
     - Paradox
     - Brief

  o Corel Systems

     - CorelDraw

  o DeScribe

     - Word Publisher

  o FutureSoft

     - DynaComm

  o Hilgraeve

     - HyperAccess/5

  o IBM

     - DisplayWrite
     - DisplayWrite Composer

  o Informix

     - Wingz

  o JP Software

     - 4OS2 (4DOS for OS/2)

  o Lotus Development

     - 1-2-3
     - Freelance Graphics
     - Notes
     - cc:Mail

  o Micrographx

     - Designer

  o Microrim

     - R:Base

  o Microsoft

     - Word
     - Excel
     - Multiplan
     - Mail

  o New England Software

     - Graph-in-the-Box

  o Omen

     - Pro-YAM

  o Oracle

     - Database

  o SAS Institute

     - SAS

  o SemWare

     - QEdit

  o SPSS Inc.

     - SPSS

  o Ventura

     - Publisher

  o WordPerfect Corp.

     - WordPerfect

and many others.  In some cases DOS and OS/2 versions ship together (e.g.
Microsoft Word 5.5, Lotus 1-2-3 3.0, Wingz).

OS/2 2.1 provides an attractive, 32-bit, Workplace Shell environment for
new applications; many do not have DOS/Windows predecessors.  This new
class of 32-bit applications will (or does) include:

  o {{ BocaSoft

     - System Sounds
     - WipeOut Screen Saver }}

  o Borland

     - ObjectVision
     - C++

  o Computer Associates

     - {{ C++
     - CommonView
     - Compete!
     - Datacom
     - dBFast
     - Easytrieve Workstation
     - IDMS
     - PAN/LCM
     - QbyX
     - Realia COBOL
     - Realizer
     - RET
     - Simply Accounting
     - SuperProject
     - Telon/PWS
     - Textor
     - Unicenter }}

  o Corel Systems

     - CorelDraw

  o DeScribe

     - Word Publisher

  o {{ Fifth Generation Systems

     - FastBack Plus }}

  o Hilgraeve

     - HyperAccess/PM

  o {{ HockWare

     - VisPro/REXX }}

  o {{ IBM

     - DB2/2
     - C Set ++
     - CICS
     - Communications Manager/2
     - Person to Person/2
     - Personal Application System/2
     - PL/1
     - Programmer's Toolkit
     - Prolog
     - TCP/IP
     - Time and Place/2
     - Ultimedia Builder/2
     - Ultimedia Perfect Image/2
     - Ultimedia Workplace/2
     - (Many others) }}

  o Lotus Development

     - 1-2-3
     - Freelance Graphics
     - Notes
     - cc:Mail
     - Ami Pro

  o Microformatic

     - Fax/PM

  o Micrographx

     - Draw
     - Designer
     - (All others)

  o Microrim

     - R:Base

  o {{ OneUp

     - WindowWasher }}

  o Proportional Software

     - DCF/2 (disk compression)

  o SofNet

     - FaxWorks

  o {{ Software Corp. of America

     - TalkThru }}

  o Spinnaker

     - PFS:Works

  o Stac Electronics

     - Stacker

  o Symantec

     - Norton Commander
     - Zortech C++

  o Vienna Software Publishing

     - N/Joy: The World of Objects

  o {{ Watcom

     - C++
     - Fortran
     - VX REXX }}

  o WordPerfect Corp.

     - WordPerfect
     - Office
     - Presentations

  o ZSoft (WordStar)

     - Publisher's Paintbrush

and many more.  Over 1200 new 32-bit OS/2 2.1 applications have been
released to date.

OS/2-specific versions of popular utilities include ZIP/UNZIP, ARC, LHA,
Zoo 2.1, many GNU tools, tens of different file finders, desktop clocks,
calculators, and many more.  Programming languages include Ada, {{ APL, }}
Assembler, BASIC, C, C++, COBOL, Forth, Fortran, Icon, LISP, Modula-2,
Pascal, {{ PL/1, }} Prolog, REXX (included with every copy of OS/2 2.1),
Smalltalk, and still more, from vendors such as Borland, Clarion, IBM,
Microway, Symantec (through its Zortech subsidiary), Watcom, and many more.
Two free ports of the 32-bit GNU C/C++ compiler, GCC/2 and EMX/GCC, are
available [See (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources].  Fortran to C (f2c)
and Pascal to C (p2c) translators are also available.  (See the
Programmer's Edition of this List for more information.)

The IBM PC Company BBS ({{ 919-517-0001 }}) provides an online product
database of OS/2-specific software.  A directory of OS/2 applications, IBM
document number G362-0029, is published by Graphics Plus (phone
800-READ-OS2).  The OS/2 Development Tools Guide is available free of
charge by calling the IBM Developer Assistance Program at [phone].
TINF [See (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources] is an applications
directory (for use with the OS/2 VIEW facility).


  Related information:

  (1.3) DOS and Windows Compatibility
  (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources


(3.2) Shareware and Freeware

 Where can I obtain OS/2 shareware and freeware?

See (4.11) OS/2 BBSes for information on bulletin board systems that
support OS/2.

On the Internet, the Usenet conference comp.binaries.os2 carries OS/2
software.  And several sites are available via anonymous ftp.  (No ftp?
Send a single line message with the word HELP to [e-mail] or
[e-mail] to learn about ftp mail servers.)  Some are (with
Internet node numbers and subdirectories):


  ftp-os2.cdrom.com              192.153.46.2     /os2

  ftp-os2.nmsu.edu               128.123.35.151   pub/os2

  software.watson.ibm.com        129.34.139.5     pub/os2

  mtsg.ubc.ca                    137.82.27.1      os2:

  access.usask.ca                128.233.3.1      pub/archives/os2

  luga.latrobe.edu.au            131.172.2.2      pub/os2

  funic.funet.fi                 128.214.6.100    pub/os2

  pdsoft.lancs.ac.uk             148.88.64.2      micros/ibmpc/os2

  ftp.uni-stuttgart.de           129.69.1.12      soft/os2

  src.doc.ic.ac.uk               146.169.2.1      computing/systems/os2

  zaphod.cs.uwindsor.ca          137.207.224.3    pub/local/os2

  ftp.luth.se                    130.240.18.2     pub/pc/os2

  ftp.informatik.tu-muenchen.de  131.159.0.198    /pub/comp/os/os2


The ftp-os2.nmsu.edu library is available on CD-ROM from Walnut Creek
(phone [phone]).  {{ A quarterly subscription is available.  Profit
Press (phone [phone]) also offers OS/2 shareware and freeware on
CD-ROM.  }} EMS (phone [phone]) offers an OS/2 shareware/freeware
library on diskette.

Other sources include CompuServe (FIND OS/2) and archive servers (send a
single line message with the word HELP to [e-mail] or
[e-mail] for more information, or use ftp).
TRICKLE servers are also available outside the United States.  For more
information on TRICKLE services, including automatic file subscription
procedures, send a single line message with the word HELP to any one of the
following sites nearest you:

  Country       Address
  Austria       [e-mail]
  Belgium       [e-mail]
  Colombia      [e-mail]
  France        [e-mail]
  Germany       [e-mail]
  Israel        [e-mail]
  Italy         [e-mail]
  Netherlands   [e-mail]
  Sweden        [e-mail]
  Turkey        [e-mail]
                [e-mail]

IBM has been releasing freely distributable employee written software (e.g.
Visual REXX) and OS/2 patches to these sites.


  Related information:

  (3.3)  "Must Have" Shareware and Freeware
  (3.5)  Running a BBS Under OS/2
  (3.7)  Viruses
  (4.6)  Corrective Service Diskettes
  (4.11) OS/2 BBSes


(3.3) "Must Have" Shareware and Freeware

 What are the "must have" shareware and freeware titles?

Here are some of the shareware and freeware selections that have proven
popular among OS/2 users.  Where available, an approximate filename is
provided.  However, since version numbers are changing frequently, please
bear in mind that some of this information may be dated.  Also, please
register any shareware you use -- your support will ensure a continuing
supply of capable OS/2 shareware.

o OS2Exec (OS2EXEC.ZIP):  Start any OS/2 program from any OS/2 DOS session.

o Worldwide OS/2 BBS List (OS2WORLD.ZIP):  List of BBSes around the world
where OS/2 is the predominant area of discussion and where large OS/2
software archives are held.

o 4OS2 Version 1.1 (4OS232.ZIP):  A replacement command interpreter from JP
Software.  A must for command line users.

o StartD ({{ STARTD22.ZIP }}):  Provides the capability to start DOS
sessions with specific, custom DOS Settings from the OS/2 command line.

o Icon Extractor (ICON_160.ZIP):  Converts Windows icons to OS/2 format.
Icons can be extracted from Windows executables.  Assigns icons via drag
and drop.  Deletes undeleteable objects.

o Mr.  File/PM (MRFILEPM.ZIP):  File manager and program launcher.

o Workplace Shell Backup (WPSBK7.ZIP):  Backup the OS/2 desktop.

o Extended Attributes Backup (EABK202.ZIP):  Saves extended attributes so
that non-EA aware backup software preserves all necessary OS/2 data.

o Visual REXX (VREXX2.ZIP):  Provides the ability to write REXX programs
which use Presentation Manager windows, scroll bars, menus, and other
features.

o Icon Programming Language (ICON88.ZIP):  A simple yet powerful
programming language for many platforms, including OS/2.  Supports
graphical applications.

o EMX/GCC (various):  Powerful C/C++ compiler with programming aids and
enhanced libraries.

o Enhanced Editor Toolkit and Accessories (various):  Add-ons to the
Enhanced Editor (EPM) which provide editor macro capabilities,
documentation, and various accessories.

o INI Maintenance (INIMNT1E.ZIP):  Edit and maintain your vital OS/2 INI
files.

o Info-Zip's UnZip 5.0 (UNZ50X32.EXE):  Extract files from ZIP archives.
PKZip 2.x compatible.  Supports extended attributes.  Companion utility,
Zip 1.9, also available.

o GTAK GNU tar ({{ GTAK212B.ZIP }}):  Tape archive (backup and restore)
utility.  Supports SCSI tape drives.

o MR/2 (MR2_139.ZIP):  Reader for BBS QWK mail packets.

o TE/2 ({{ TE2_124.ZIP }}):  A full featured terminal emulation and modem
communications program.

o PMComm (PMCOM110.ZIP):  As full featured as TE/2, but with a Presentation
Manager interface.

o C-Kermit 5A(189) ({{ CK5A189.ZIP }}):  A terminal emulation and modem
communications program featuring the Kermit file transfer protocol.

o SIO COM Drivers ({{ SIO102.ZIP }}):  Replacement serial port drivers
which offer enhanced performance.

o McAfee's Virus Scan ({{ OSCN104.ZIP }}):  Detects viruses.  Companion
Virus Clean and Net Scan utilities also available.

o Minesweeper (DMINE110.ZIP):  A game which requires you to avoid the mines
in a minefield.  Several other versions are available.

o Galleria (GALLERIA.ZIP):  Graphics manipulation and screen capture
utility.  {{ Also try PM Camera for screen capture.  }}

o IBM Configurator and Pricer (ICPAUSA.ZIP):  Prices IBM personal computer
systems and accessories.

o PS/2 Assistant ({{ PS2AST77.ZIP }}):  Provides information on most of the
IBM personal computer product line, including OS/2.

o emTeX (various):  Provides professional typesetting and document
composition.

o BlackHole (BLAKHOL3.ZIP):  A Workplace Shell object that destroys
anything dragged to it.

o CONFIG.SYS Editor (CFGED1B.ZIP):  A Presentation Manager utility which
eases CONFIG.SYS editing.

o BootOS2 (BOOT2X.ZIP):  Creates an OS/2 bootable diskette.

o psPM (PSPM2.ZIP):  Displays a graphical representation of the processes
running on an OS/2 system and allows termination of any or all.

o Workplace Shell Tools (WPTOOL02.ZIP):  Creates or deletes standard
Workplace Shell objects.

o GhostScript PM (GS252PM.ZIP):  Postscript interpreter and viewer.

o OS2You (OS2YOU27.ZIP):  OS/2 remote control over a modem or LAN
connection.  Companion program PM2You, for control of graphical
applications, including DOS and Windows, is also available.

o UUPC/Extended (various):  Provides uucp connection for mail, news, and
other services.

o TinyEd {{ (TINYED.ZIP):  Text editor, under 10K in size -- perfect for an
emergency boot diskette.  }}

o BookShelf (BOOKSHLF.ZIP):  Utility which presents a coherent menu of all
available INF files on your system.

o HSwitch {{ (HSWTCH02.ZIP):  A task list for full screen sessions.  }}

o Mousey {{ (MOUSEY10.ZIP):  Shareware utility which allows you to change
the default mouse pointer to a candy cane, chicken head, or other icon of
your choosing.  }}


  Related information:

  (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources


(3.4) Disk Utilities

 Is there a Norton Utilities for OS/2?

Not yet, although Norton Desktop, Norton Utilities, and Norton Commander
all work under OS/2 2.1's DOS/Windows sessions [with limitations; See (1.3)
DOS and Windows Compatibility].  Also, Norton Commander is now available
for OS/2 2.1.

However, the GammaTech Utilities should fill the role.  Contact their
publisher at 405-359-1219.  Note that OS/2 2.1 has a built-in UnDelete
utility (see the online Command Reference), and HPFS is resistant to
fragmentation [See (1.5) High Performance File System].


 Related information:

 (1.3) DOS and Windows Compatibility
 (1.5) High Performance File System


(3.5) BBS Operation Under OS/2

 I would like to set up an OS/2 BBS.  What is available?

OS/2 is an excellent environment for BBS operation (even using DOS/Windows
software), including large multiline facilities.  Related software will
enable FidoNet capabilities, gateways to Usenet/UUCP, nodelist processing,
additional file transfer protocols, and more.

Five popular OS/2-specific BBSes are Maximus and Simplex [available from
(3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources), Omega Point/2 (BBS 404-564-1961),
Magnum (phone [phone], BBS 818-706-9805), and Multi-Net (phone
503-883-8099, BBS 503-883-8197).

For more information on operating a BBS under OS/2 (with conferences
devoted to the subject) log on to one of the OS/2 BBSes listed in (4.11)
OS/2 BBSes.


 Related information:

 (2.4)  COM3 and COM4 Support
 (4.11) OS/2 BBSes


(3.6) Multimedia (MMPM/2)

 What do I need for OS/2 multimedia applications?

OS/2 2.1 includes both the Win-OS/2 multimedia extensions and MMPM/2, the
OS/2 multimedia extensions, at no extra charge.  OS/2 2.1's MMPM/2 includes
software motion video support for both IBM Ultimotion and Intel Indeo
files.  Software motion video provides playback of video clips in a window
under OS/2.  (Video for Windows will operate correctly under Win-OS/2, but
Ultimotion is far more capable than Video for Windows.  Ultimotion supports
higher frame rates, larger image sizes, better synchronization of video and
audio, and, often, simultaneous playback of two or more video clips, even
with background tasks running.)  An accelerated display adapter and a fast
processor can help improve the quality of software motion video.

Drivers for the Creative Labs SoundBlaster series, MediaVision ProAudio
series, and IBM M-Audio Capture and Playback Adapter are provided with
MMPM/2.  Other drivers should be available from (3.2) Shareware and
Freeware Sources, or contact your adapter vendor for information on OS/2
driver support.  (The original SoundBlaster and certain ATI SoundBlaster
clones may require a low cost upgrade from the manufacturer to work with
MMPM/2.)  A driver for the PC speaker {{ has been }} released by IBM, but
this driver demands a huge amount of processor attention and does not
provide the fidelity that audio adapters do.

Note that the MediaVision ProAudio Spectrum Plus operates correctly when
using the built-in MMPM/2 ProAudio Spectrum 16 driver.  However, to obtain
full functionality you must change the PARAMSTRING line in the
[ibmwavepas1601] section of the file \MMOS2\MMPM2.INI after installation of
MMPM/2.  Using a text editor (like the OS/2 System Editor), change the line
so that BPS=8 instead of BPS=16.  This change causes MMPM/2 to default to
8-bit audio (since the ProAudio Spectrum Plus does not support 16-bit
audio).

{{ The MMPM/2 driver for the original SoundBlaster supplied with OS/2 2.1
contains a special check which may render it inoperable with SoundBlaster
clones (like the MediaVision Thunderboard).  Advanced users may patch the
driver using the following commands:

 CD \MMOS2
 COPY SBD2.SYS SBD2.OLD
 DEBUG SBD2.SYS
 -e 3fd8 00
 -w
 -q

  }}

MMPM/2 drivers should also be available for Digitan and Omni sound
adapters, directly from their manufacturers.  VideoLogic's (phone
617-494-0530) DVA-4000 supports video capture and video display in OS/2
windows as does New Media Graphics's (phone [phone]) Super
VideoWindows.  Tecmar (phone [phone] or 216-349-1009, or FAX
216-349-0851) offers various OS/2 multimedia products, including the
ProSound audio adapter.

REXX programs [see (5.11) REXX] can be used to play, record, and manipulate
MMPM/2 audio and video files.  For more information on REXX and MMPM/2,
consult the online Multimedia with REXX document (located in the Multimedia
folder).

More information on IBM's OS/2 multimedia extensions (MMPM/2) and tools,
Ultimotion, multimedia hardware, and IBM multimedia titles (e.g.
Illuminated Manuscript) is available through IBM's Multimedia Office (phone
800-426-9402 ext.  150).

{{ To install a Windows sound driver under Win-OS/2, make sure that the
line drivers=mmsystem.dll appears in the file \OS2\MDOS\WINOS2\SYSTEM.INI
under the [boot] section.  In some cases an installation bug prevents this
line from being set up properly.  }}


 Related information:

 (1.3)  DOS and Windows Compatibility
 (2.5)  Specific Hardware Recommendations
 (3.2)  Shareware and Freeware Sources
 (4.5)  Technical Support
 (5.11) REXX


(3.7) Viruses

 Should I worry about viruses when running OS/2 2.1?

At present there are no OS/2-specific viruses.  However, DOS/Windows
viruses can conceivably infect an OS/2 2.1 system.  DOS/Windows antivirus
tools are just as useful in preventing such infection.  Also, IBM has an
antivirus package (AntiVirus/2) which runs under OS/2 directly (without
DOS/Windows emulation).  {{ To order AntiVirus/2, call 800-551-3579
(800-465-7999 in Canada).  }} McAfee's OS/2 SCAN and CLEAN have been
released, as has Dr.  Solomon's Antivirus Toolkit for OS/2 from Ontrack
Systems.  Others (Dr.  Cohen, for example) are in development.

But OS/2 2.1 is likely to be much more resistant to viruses because of its
design.  Viruses running in one virtual DOS/Windows session are likely to
be confined to that session.  Low level disk access is curtailed under OS/2
2.1, thus preventing most virus infection at that level.  And when a
DOS/Windows virus does trigger, it is far less likely to disrupt the entire
system.  In fact, OS/2 is most vulnerable when it isn't in charge (i.e.
when native DOS is being used).  A DOS virus then has free reign to write
to the hard disk and possibly disable OS/2.  The greater risk comes from
leaving OS/2.

OS/2 2.1 is by no means virus proof -- no system is.  But it should prove
more resistant to virus infection.


 Related information:

 (1.3) DOS and Windows Compatibility


(3.8) Networking Products

 What networking products are available for OS/2 2.1?

In addition to DOS/Windows products, OS/2-specific TCP/IP support is
available from IBM (phone 800-IBM-CALL), Essex Systems (phone {{
508-750-6200 or FAX [phone] }}), FTP Software (send mail to
[e-mail]), {{ Wollongong (phone [phone] or FAX [phone]), }}
and others.  (A freeware SLIP implementation, PMNOS, is available; see
(3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources.)  The NetWare Workstation Kit 2.01
for OS/2 is available from Novell (phone [phone]) and IBM for a small
charge; it is also available free of charge from (3.2) Shareware and
Freeware Sources.  Note that NetWare 4.0 Server (including all the NLMs)
can run alongside OS/2 2.1 at the same time, making OS/2 2.1 the only
operating system providing nondedicated NetWare 4.0 server and client
capability (a boon for administration and dual LAN Server/NetWare servers,
for example).  {{ The package to enable NetWare 4.0 Server to run alongside
OS/2 2.1 is available from IBM Direct (800-IBM-2-YOU), Part No.  53G5730.
IBM also }} offers both NetWare and LAN Server 3.0 (Basic and Advanced)
with LAN requesters.  Microsoft sells LAN Manager (which comes bundled with
OS/2 1.3).  An OS/2 2.1 LAN Manager Requester, part no.  96F8359, is
available from IBM; Microsoft offers a similar requester with LAN Manager
2.1a (or later).  DEC sells Pathworks (Version 2.0b {{ or later }}) for
OS/2.  Banyan Vines 5.5 (or later) includes an OS/2 2.x requester.

OS/2 NDIS MAC drivers for most network adapters are available from (3.2)
Shareware and Freeware Sources, as well as vax.ftp.com via Internet
anonymous ftp.  Drivers for 3Com adapters are available via anonymous ftp
from ftp.3com.com, from the 3Com Support BBS, or from CompuServe (GO
THREECOM).  Drivers for Cabletron adapters are available via anonymous ftp
from ftp.ctron.com.

Peer-to-peer networking under OS/2 2.1 is best accomplished (at the moment)
with either a TCP/IP or APPN product, like IBM's TCP/IP or Communications
Manager/2, respectively.  TCP/IP (with NFS) is available for nearly all
platforms, so it is a particularly good choice in a mixed environment.
Artisoft is reportedly working on an OS/2 version of LANtastic; contact the
company for details.  Note that LANtastic 5.0 can run in an OS/2 2.1 DOS
session, providing either client or server capability (including access to
HPFS long filenames for DOS clients).  IBM may have its own offering in the
near future (a repackaging and upgrade of the peer-to-peer support already
provided in LAN Server 3.0).  This support can {{ already }} interoperate
with Microsoft Windows for Workgroups.

Infoworld recently called OS/2 the best PC operating system for networking
in a mixed environment (i.e.  with multiple network protocols and/or
platforms).  With IBM's Network Transport Services/2 at the base (i.e.  by
working through a single NDIS interface, using {{ ODI }} "shims" if
necessary), multiple network protocols can share the same network adapter
under OS/2, avoiding contention.  OS/2 is equally adept as network client,
server, and/or peer.  It is flexible enough to meet the needs of almost any
network user.


 Related information:

 (1.3)  DOS and Windows Compatibility
 (3.2)  Shareware and Freeware Sources
 (3.9)  Extended Services
 (3.12) Multiuser Extensions and Security
 (5.9)  Specific DOS Sessions


(3.9) Extended Services

 What is Extended Services?

Prior to Version 2.0, IBM offered two separate packages with each release
of OS/2:  Standard Edition and Extended Edition.  Extended Edition included
extra, bundled software products:  the Communications Manager (for
communication with IBM mainframes, minicomputers, and other hosts),
Database Manager (a full, network aware, relational database), and LAN
Requester.

IBM has now unbundled the Extended Edition features, dropped LAN Requester
from the package (now available separately, with IBM's LAN Server), updated
it for OS/2 2.x, and renamed it Extended Services 1.0.  ES, by itself, no
longer includes the base operating system as Extended Edition once did.

This new arrangement makes it easier to update the base operating system
with CSDs [See (4.6) Corrective Service Diskettes].  And now ES 1.0 will
run under OS/2 1.3 Standard Edition as well as OS/2 2.x.  Also, ES 1.0,
like OS/2 2.x itself, is designed to operate on both IBM and non-IBM
systems [See (2.1) Hardware Requirements].

While Extended Services will remain available, IBM has decided to further
separate the ES components.  DB2/2, a full 32-bit relational database, is
available separately as a replacement for ES's Database Manager.
Communications Manager/2 is now also available by itself.  With each
component available "a la carte," you can configure your OS/2 system to
your exact specifications (almost always at a lower cost), and you are free
to substitute similar products from other vendors (so you aren't locked
into IBM's offerings).

{{ To install Extended Services 1.0 under OS/2 2.1, you must replace the
ESSTART.CMD file on ES Diskette 1 with the ESSTART.BAK file found in the
\OS2\INSTALL directory Keep a backup of the old file.  }}


 Related information:

 (1.2) Differences Between Versions
 (2.1) Hardware Requirements
 (3.8) Networking Products
 (4.6) Corrective Service Diskettes


(3.10) Special Software Offers

 Are there any special software offers I should know about?

Here are some of the OS/2 software products that represent particularly
good values.  Most prices do not include shipping and handling.

o Low Prices on OS/2 2.1.  {{ Katy Computer Systems in St.  Louis (phone
314-230-8200 or netmail [e-mail]) is offering the OS/2 2.1 Upgrade
Edition on diskette for $82 and on CD-ROM for $68.  Katy will ship anywhere
in the continental United States for $4 per copy.  Prices are subject to
change after September 14.  }}

o Special Offers from IBM.  {{ Through September 14, you can order several
non-IBM OS/2 software packages from the OS/2 Hotline (800-3-IBM-OS2) at
special, low prices.  Mention Offer R1 when ordering.  SofNet's FaxWorks
($79), Arcadia Workplace Companion ($89), TalkThru ($139 text emulator;
$239 graphics emulator), PolyPM/2 ($199 combo package), BlackJack ($19.95),
and DeScribe Word Publisher ($99) are available.  }}

o Novastor's Novaback Tape Backup Software.  This package supports a wide
variety of tape drives, but check ahead to see if yours is supported.
Available for $112 from Programmer's Connection, phone [phone] or
216-494-8715.

o IBM C Set ++.  IBM has released its C++ compiler for OS/2 at a special
price.  Through August 31, C Set ++ is $175 on diskette, $149 on CD-ROM.
To order call 800-342-6672 in the U.S.  or 800-465-7999 in Canada.  Outside
North America, contact your local IBM dealer.  C Set ++ on diskette is IBM
Part No.  61G1175; on CD-ROM, 61G1412.

o Borland C++ for OS/2.  Available from Below Zero in Calgary (phone
800-461-2777, 403-547-0669, or FAX [phone]) for about $136 U.S.,
including shipping.  Add GST in Canada.  Below Zero will export outside
North America.  {{ Also available from IBM Direct (800-IBM-2-YOU) for $139.
}}

o IBM PL/1.  Not everyone is a PL/1 programmer, but IBM is offering free
copies of Workframe/2 with every purchase and free product videos.  Phone
800-426-3346 ext.  STL10 for more information on the two packages
available.

o IBM TCP/IP 2.0 for OS/2.  The universal peer-to-peer networking solution,
{{ now updated to take advantage of OS/2 2.x's special features.  }} In the
United States the base package {{ (IBM Part No.  65G1220) is available for
$150 from IBM (phone 800-IBM-CALL ext.  S83) through December 31.
Discounts apply for additional licenses.  The Base Services package
includes basic server and client software (finger, ftp, talk, telnet,
etc.), an NNTP newsreader (NR/2), a mailer (LaMail), SLIP support, and much
more.  Ask about available TCP/IP add-ons if you need them:  X Window
System Server, X Window System Client, NFS, DOS/Windows Access,
Programmer's Toolkit, Domain Name Server, Extended Networking, NetBIOS,
OSF/Motif, Asia/Pacific Kit, and MultiMail.  }}

o Lotus Applications.  Lotus 1-2-3 2.0, {{ cc:Mail 2.0, }} and Freelance
Graphics 2.0 for OS/2 are now available.  These 32-bit, Workplace Shell,
and HPFS aware applications are available at the same prices as the DOS and
Windows counterparts.  For educational discounts in the United States
contact Douglas Stewart Co.  (phone [phone]).

o Imara ScanTool.  Imara Research Corp.  is offering its OS/2 ScanTool
software at a special price of $99 with a 30 day money back guarantee.
Works with HP ScanJet, ScanJet Plus, ScanJet IIP, and ScanJet IIC scanners.
Saves files as PCX, raw TIFF, or compressed TIFF.  Phone Imara at
416-581-1740 (or FAX [phone]) for more information or to order.

o Conner Backup Exec.  Conner, through some recent acquisitions, has
obtained expertise in OS/2 backup software.  Backup Exec is the latest
effort, on sale at a special price of $69.  Call 800-468-2587 for more
information or to order.

o Corel Draw 2.5.  Corel Systems has dropped the price of Corel Draw 2.5
for OS/2 to just $199 (list).

o Corel SCSI Software.  Corel Systems offers a SCSI driver package which
will give you additional support for removeable media (such as
magneto-optical drives) under OS/2 (and DOS).  This package is available
for $64.95 from Computability (phone [phone] or FAX [phone]).

o PFS:Works.  Spinnaker has slashed the price of PFS:Works for OS/2, an
integrated software package providing word processing, spreadsheet,
charting, database, and communications functions.  Many dealers are
carrying PFS:Works for OS/2 for under $40, including Indelible Blue (phone
{{ 800-776-8284 or }} 919-834-7005, FAX [phone]).

o WordPerfect 5.2.  If you already have WordPerfect 5.2 for Windows, you
may obtain the diskettes for the OS/2 version for about $25, thanks to
WordPerfect's generous multiplatform license.  (A manual is extra.)
Contact WordPerfect for details, including educational and nonupgrade
pricing.  WordPerfect can be reached at {{ 800-321-5906 }} or FAX
801-222-5077.

o Relish.  Relish is a 32-bit PIM (personal information manager), handling
scheduling and calendar functions.  Relish is now available for only $69
directly from Sundial Systems; mention the "OS/2 User Group Special" when
ordering.  A demonstration version of Relish is available from (3.2)
Shareware and Freeware Sources.

o IBM DB2/2.  The single user version of IBM's Database 2 for OS/2 is on
sale through August 31 for just $199 (Part No.  62G3648).  This powerful,
32-bit database is the successor to the Database Manager found in Extended
Services.  Server versions are available.


  Related information:

  (3.1) Applications
  (3.2) Shareware and Freeware Sources


(3.11) Backup Software

 What backup software is available?

Generally DOS backup programs will work under OS/2 2.1, but they may not
capture some OS/2 data (especially extended attributes) on the hard disk
without the assistance of utilities such as EABackup [See (3.2) Shareware
and Freeware Sources].

OS/2 backup tools are available, notably:


  Software Title           Company              Telephone

  PMTape and PS2Tape       IBM                  (800) IBM-CALL

  Sytos Plus               Sytron               [phone]
                                                BBS [phone]

  EZTape and Backup Exec   Irwin (Conner)       [phone]

  DMS/Intelligent Backup   Sterling             [phone]

  FileSafe                 Mountain             {{ [phone] }}

  Back in a Flash!         CCT Inc.             [phone]

  NovaBack                 NovaStor             [phone]

  OBackup                  ?                    See (3.2) Shareware and
                                                Freeware Sources

[Continue with Part 3 of 4]

--
Timothy F. Sipples        | READ the OS/2 Frequently Asked Questions List
[e-mail] | 2.1C, available from 192.153.46.2, anonymous
Dept. of Econ., Univ.     | ftp, in /pub/os2/all/info/faq, or from
of Chicago, 60637         | [e-mail] (send "HELP").