PC Online 1996 October/PCO_10.ISO/filesbbs/commo.arj/COMMO.DOC

Text File | 1996-08-24 | 180.1 KB | 4,819 lines

    {COMMO} (tm)

                   "A New Standard in Telecommunications"


        by Fred P. Brucker





            Part I
              User Guide and Reference


            Release 7.0
              August 24, 1996





       (C)Copyright 1989-1996  Fred P. Brucker  All Rights Reserved




The {COMMO} program and associated on-disk documentation are the property
of Fred P. Brucker (the "author") and may not be sold without permission.
The Shareware version may be distributed, unaltered and as a unit, via
Electronic Bulletin Board Systems.

SHAREWARE DISTRIBUTORS and clubs, please see the files VENDINFO.DIZ and
VENDOR.DOC for distribution guidelines.


THE AUTHOR OF THIS PROGRAM DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EITHER EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, WITH REGARD TO THE
SOFTWARE, THE ACCOMPANYING WRITTEN MATERIALS AND THE DISKETTES.  IN NO
EVENT SHALL THE AUTHOR BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL,
INCIDENTAL OR INDIRECT DAMAGES OF ANY KIND ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF THE
SOFTWARE, EVEN IF THE AUTHOR HAS BEEN SPECIFICALLY ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.  IN NO EVENT WILL THE AUTHOR'S LIABILITY
EXCEED THE ACTUAL PRICE PAID FOR THE LICENSE TO USE THE SOFTWARE.

YOUR USE OF THIS PROGRAM CONSTITUTES YOUR ACCEPTANCE OF THESE TERMS.


{COMMO} is a trademark of Fred P. Brucker.  All other trademarks and
registered trademarks referenced in this document are the property of their
respective owners.



                     ================================
                     {COMMO} Registration Information
                     ================================

  {COMMO} is a "SHAREWARE" product.  You are entitled to evaluate it for
  30 days.  If it suits your needs and you would like to continue using
  it, then you must pay the licensing fee.  Please use the REGISTRATION
  FORM on the next page.

  When you REGISTER you will be licensed to use all future SHAREWARE
  releases of {COMMO}.  You will never have to pay an "update" charge.
  Registration eliminates the startup delay and makes you eligible for
  full technical support.

  Call or write for pricing information on MULTI-USER (SITE) and
  DISTRIBUTION licenses.  Discounts are given on quantities of 10 or more.

  All prices shown are US DOLLARS.  Please remit US FUNDS on US BANK only.
  NET 30 TERMS will be accepted on purchase orders totalling $100.00 or
  more.

  The PRINTED MANUAL is 7 x 8.5 (inches) in size and includes an index.
  The DISKETTE has the latest {COMMO} release plus the latest version of
  the Enhanced MOSTHOST host macro.

  For orders, inquiries and support for registered users, call MON-SAT,
  9am-5pm, EASTERN time.  If you get my answering machine, please try
  again later (I cannot return long distance calls).

  To register by E-mail on CompuServe or Internet, upload the completed
  Registration Form as a message (text or binary).

     MAILING ADDRESS:    Fred P. Brucker
                         P.O. Box 141537
                         Columbus, OH 43214

     VOICE TELEPHONE:    [phone]
     COMPUSERVE:         71021,356
     INTERNET:           [e-mail]

  PAYMENT OPTIONS:

  1) CHECK or MONEY ORDER:  make payable to FRED P. BRUCKER.

  2) CREDIT CARD:  fill in the credit card information at the bottom of
     the Registration Form (next page).  Credit card orders may be mailed,
     phoned or E-mailed.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------



                 {COMMO} 7.0 SINGLE USER REGISTRATION FORM

  Name     _______________________________________________________________

  Company name (if company address)   ____________________________________

  Address  _______________________________________________________________

           _______________________________________________________________

           _______________________________________________________________

             * All prices include shipping and handling *            Number
                                                                    of Copies

  {COMMO} single user license with PRINTED MANUAL and DISKETTE:
         Price in USA/Canada/Mexico ....................... $ 53.00   ____
         OHIO residents (includes sales tax) ..............   56.05   ____
         All other countries ..............................   60.00   ____

  {COMMO} single user license, with DISKETTE (manual on disk):
         Price in USA/Canada/Mexico ....................... $ 40.00   ____
         OHIO residents (includes sales tax) ..............   42.30   ____
         All other countries ..............................   42.00   ____

                  * All diskettes are 3.5" DS/HD *


                                      Enter total AMOUNT:   $ ____________

  Payment method:  Check__  Money order__  Visa__  MasterCard__
                   Carte Blanche__  Diners Club__  JCB__   PO__


     INFORMATION FOR CREDIT CARD PURCHASES ONLY:

     Card No. ________  ________  ________  ________  Expires ____/____
                                                               mo.  yr.
     Cardholder signature _____________________________________________

     Cardholder name __________________________________________________

     Daytime telephone  (_____) _____ _______

--------------------------------------------------------------------------




  Answers to the following questions will help me serve you better in the
  future:

  How did you obtain {COMMO}?  (If BBS, please give name and phone number)

  ________________________________________________________________________

  In general terms, what do you use {COMMO} for?

  ________________________________________________________________________

  ________________________________________________________________________

  What type of computer and modem do you use?

  ________________________________________________________________________

  ________________________________________________________________________


  Comments / Questions ___________________________________________________

  ________________________________________________________________________

  ________________________________________________________________________

  ________________________________________________________________________

  ________________________________________________________________________


  Thank you, and I hope you enjoy {COMMO}.



                                    -6-

========
Contents
========


Program Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  10

Principal Features  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  11

Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  14
     The Best Way to Learn {COMMO} Quickly  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  14
     Quick Start Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  14
     Preparing Your System  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  16
     Command Line Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  17
     Initialization Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  19
     Terminal Screen  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  19

{COMMO} Key Commands  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  20
     Alt+A  ASCII Upload  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  20
     Alt+B  Send Break Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  21
     Alt+C  Clear Screen  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  21
     Alt+D  Dialing Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  22
          Dialing Directory Entry Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  22
     Alt+G  Edit Setup File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  26
          Predefining Variables with SET  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  26
          Explanation of Setup File Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
               Terminal and Modem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
                    Serial port data rate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
                    Data format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
                    Serial port number  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
                    Emulation type  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
                    Inter-character delay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
                    port address/IRQ  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  27
                    Modem Init String . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  28
                    Send Modem Init String  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  28
                    Hardware (RTS/CTS) Flow Control . . . . . . . . . .  29
                    Software (XON/XOFF) Flow Control  . . . . . . . . .  29
                    Stop serial input during disk I/O . . . . . . . . .  29
                    Enhance serial priority . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
                    Drop DTR and RTS on exit  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
                    Answer ENQ with ACK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  30
                    Macro to execute on NO CARRIER  . . . . . . . . . .  30
                    Zmodem like-named file mode . . . . . . . . . . . .  31
                    Auto Receive  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  31
                    Receive Translate Table initialization  . . . . . .  32
                    Send Translate Table initialization . . . . . . . .  32
               Paths and Files  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  33
                    Path to find uploads  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  33
                    Path to place downloads . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  33
                    Path to find external protocols . . . . . . . . . .  33
                    Path\filename for Usage Log . . . . . . . . . . . .  33
                    Path\filename for Capture File  . . . . . . . . . .  34
                    Path\filename for Screen Image File . . . . . . . .  34



                                    -7-

                    Path\filename for Swap to Disk File . . . . . . . .  35
                    Command line for external editor  . . . . . . . . .  35
               Dialing  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  35
                    Default Dialing Prefix  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  35
                    Default Dialing Suffix  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  35
                    Dialing cycle time limit  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  36
                    Delay between dialing attempts  . . . . . . . . . .  36
                    Method to cancel dialing  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  36
                    Dialing success response(s) . . . . . . . . . . . .  36
                    Dialing failure response(s) . . . . . . . . . . . .  36
                    Inter-dial response(s)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  36
                    Clear dialing marks when loading  . . . . . . . . .  37
                    Display connect messages  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  37
               Video and Chat Mode  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  38
                    Speech Friendly Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . .  38
                    Scrollback buffer size  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  38
                    Status Line on  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  39
                    Status Line at top of screen  . . . . . . . . . . .  39
                    Auto-detect number of rows and columns  . . . . . .  39
                    Alternate video mode  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  39
                    Startup editor in insert mode . . . . . . . . . . .  40
                    Number of lines in upper Chat Mode window . . . . .  40
                    Send when Enter is pressed in Chat Mode . . . . . .  40
                    Use BIOS for Terminal Screen scrolling  . . . . . .  41
                    Snow checking on CGA adapter  . . . . . . . . . . .  41
                    Graphic display characters  . . . . . . . . . . . .  41
               Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  42
                    Master Sound on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  42
                    Dialing connection alarm  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  42
                    ASCII Upload finished alarm . . . . . . . . . . . .  42
                    Make sounds on errors/warnings  . . . . . . . . . .  42
                    Maximum number of alarm rings . . . . . . . . . . .  42
               ASCII Upload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  42
                    Expand blank lines  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  42
                    Strip outgoing linefeeds  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  42
                    ASCII Upload Pacing Character . . . . . . . . . . .  42
               Miscellaneous  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  43
                    Startup macro label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  43
                    Variable Space size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  43
                    Edit space for files  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  43
                    Enter Dialing Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  44
                    Local Echo on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  44
                    Signal Lights on  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  44
                    Capture File open . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  44
                    Capture Mode  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  44
                    Display time of day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  44
                    Order of date parameters  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  45
                    Time format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  45
                    Test for enhanced keyboard  . . . . . . . . . . . .  45
                    Scan code for Doorway Mode key  . . . . . . . . . .  45
                    User-defined macro key-label  . . . . . . . . . . .  46
                    Go directly to selector for uploads . . . . . . . .  46
               Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  46



                                    -8-

                    Color Mode  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  46
                    Terminal Screen, Status Line colors . . . . . . . .  47
                    "file" window colors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  47
                    "pop-up" window colors  . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  48
     Alt+H  Hang Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  48
     Alt+I  Screen Image Save . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  48
     Alt+K  Scrollback  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  48
     Alt+L  Capture File Options  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  49
     Alt+M  Macro File  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  49
          Keyboard Macros: Customizing Key Commands . . . . . . . . . .  49
          Compiling Macro Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  50
     Alt+N  Multi Number Dialing  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  51
     Alt+O  Send Modem Initialization String  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  51
     Alt+P  Set Terminal Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  51
          Parameter Descriptions  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  52
          How to Set Terminal Parameters  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  54
     Alt+S   Shell to DOS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  54
     Alt+T  Set Toggles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
          Sound Control Toggle  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
          Local Echo Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
          Signal Lights Toggle  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
     Alt+U  Utility Menu  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  55
     Alt+W  Send Current Password . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  56
     Alt+X  Exit from {COMMO} . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  56
     Alt+1  Capture File Options  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  56
     Alt+2  Print Log Toggle  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  58
     Alt+-  Chat Mode Toggle  (Alt minus) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  58
     Alt+=  Doorway Mode Toggle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  58
     F1  How to Use Online Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  60
          Modifying the Help File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  60

PgUp/PgDn  Uploading/Downloading  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  60
     Internal Protocols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  61
     CompuServe BPlus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  62
     ASCII Upload/Download  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  63
     External Protocols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  63
     Using HS/Link  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  64
     Using Kermit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  64
     External Zmodem  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  64
     {COMMO} Auto Receive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  64

Appendix A:  Setting Up Your Modem  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  67
     Answering a call from another computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  68
     Connecting two computers (null modem cable)  . . . . . . . . . . .  69

Appendix B   {COMMO} and Multi-Tasking  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  70

Appendix C   Flow Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  71

Appendix D   ASCII Character Representation . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  72

Appendix E   Terminal Emulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  74
     ANSI-BBS Keyboard Support  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  74



                                    -9-

     VT102 Keyboard Simulation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  74
     VT220 Keyboard Simulation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  75
     Printer Support  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  76

Appendix F   Usage Log Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  77

Appendix G   Error Message Explanations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  79

Appendix H   {COMMO} Macro Key-labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  83
     Table of PREDEFINED Key-labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  83
     USER-DEFINED Key-labels  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  84

Appendix I   List of Reserved Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  85

Appendix J   Macro Functions Listed by Class  . . . . . . . . . . . . .  87

Appendix K   {COMMO} Support Files  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  90
     The Internal Editor  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  90
     Using an External Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  90
     The Setup File, COMMO.SET  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  91
     The Dialing Directory, COMMO.FON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  91
     The Resident Macro File, COMMO.MAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  92
     The Auxiliary Macro File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  92
     The Online Help File, COMMO.HLP  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  92
     Changes to the Support Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  92

Appendix L   External Communications Drivers (INT 14) . . . . . . . . .  93



                                    -10-

==========  Program Description

{COMMO} is a high-performance communications program.  The comprehensive
macro programming (script) language provides the power to customize the
program and to automate any online or offline procedure.

{COMMO} handles high speed modems with ease, is multi-tasker aware and uses
plain text support files (Setup File, Dialing Directory and Macro Files).
It is small in size, yet has an amazing amount of functionality (it is
written entirely in assembly language).

And {COMMO} is elegant, easy to learn and fun to use!

See the full list of features starting on the next page.


Minimum system configuration:

     IBM PC compatible computer.
     MS-DOS 2.1 or higher.
     128k of memory.
     One diskette drive.
     A serial port or internal modem with an 8250, 16450 or 16550
       compatible UART chip (or INT 14 driver).
     {COMMO} can be configured to work with any type of modem.



{COMMO} is pronounced cah'mo.  It's technical jargon for "communications."





                                  {COMMO}

                   "A New Standard in Telecommunications"



                                    -11-

==========  Principal Features

{COMMO} is small in size, loads rapidly and performs all functions with
great speed.

The powerful Macro Language allows you to:

      *   Write macro "scripts" to automate many common operations such as
          logging in, reading messages, uploading/downloading.  {COMMO} can
          even perform these tasks in the middle of the night while you
          sleep.

      *   Assign Function Keys, Alt Keys, Keypad Keys, etc., to:
          - Send a string to the modem
          - Execute any DOS command
          - Start any macro
          - Initiate any {COMMO} function.

      *   Create pop-up menus with "hot keys" to start macros.

      *   Edit all macros without exiting {COMMO}, using the Internal
          Editor (or your external editor).  Macros become effective
          immediately.

      *   Call your computer from a remote location using {COMMO}'s
          convenient Host Mode, written in {COMMO}'s macro language.

      *   Macros can be compiled for improved speed, reduced size and
          greater security.

The free-form Dialing Directory can hold an unlimited number of entries.
Mark any number of entries for Multi Number Dialing (entries may also be
marked from the command line or from a macro).  A macro may be linked to
each directory entry.

Built-in file transfer protocols include Zmodem, Ymodem, Xmodem and
CompuServe BPlus.  Files can be tagged for uploading with {COMMO}'s File
Selector feature.

Multi-tasking support.  {COMMO} is fully DESQview aware and operates in far
less memory than comparable programs.  Also compatible with OS/2 and
Windows.

Swap to Disk may be used when shelling to DOS or executing external
programs.  The resident program kernel occupies only 8k of memory.

Built-in ANSI-BBS and VT102 emulation.  Supports ANSI editing functions,
scrolling region, 132 column mode, graphics character set, tab set/clear,
printing, modes, reports, etc.  Complete auto-switching VT102 or VT220
keyboard support via Macros.

ENQ/ACK terminal protocol support.



                                    -12-

ASCII Upload feature sends messages and text files.  Includes optional Line
Pacing, linefeed stripping and blank line expansion.

The Setup File, Dialing Directory and Macro File are plain text files and
may be edited with the full-function Internal Editor, or with any external
editor.

Any file up to 64k in size may be edited within {COMMO} using the Internal
Editor.

String search is available in all support file windows, including
Scrollback and Online Help.

{COMMO} supports all text display modes, including 132 column screens.

Character Translate Tables for both sending and receiving.  Tables can be
modified dynamically via macros.

Split-screen Chat Mode for communicating with another computer which is
also running a terminal program.  All program features are available while
in Chat Mode.

Doorway Mode provides full support for Marshall Dudley's DOORWAY program,
which lets you operate remote applications with the full use of your screen
and keyboard.

{COMMO}'s Auto Receive feature lets you configure any 16 strings to
automatically trigger any 16 macros.  Thus any protocol with a "signature"
can be set to start automatically.  Zmodem and HS/Link are pre-configured.

Support for any 16 serial ports.  Port addresses and IRQ's are configurable
(including IRQ 8 to 15).  Port speeds up to 40,000,000 bps.  Automatic
support for 16550A buffered UART chip.

Support for external communications drivers that use the standard INT 14
(BIOS) interface.

Serial port Signal Lights may be displayed on the Status Line, including
send and receive (especially useful with internal modems).

Scrollback buffer up to 64k bytes gives instant replay of the text that has
scrolled off the screen.

Capture File saves all text from the screen to a disk file.  Three
different capture modes are available.

Screen Image Save writes the current screen to a disk file.

Print Log writes all text from the screen to the printer.

Usage Log records date, time, length of call and other information about
each call.  Date of last call can be saved in the Dialing Directory.



                                    -13-

Date and time formats used in logs and displays are configurable for use in
any country.

Comprehensive support for visually impaired users with {COMMO}'s
configurable Speech Friendly Interface (use the "/b" command line switch or
set {sfi=yes} in COMMO.SET).

Extensive context-related Online Help.



                                    -14-

==========  Getting Started

Refer to Appendix G for explanations of any error messages you receive
during your initial use of {COMMO}.

For additional details, see "Preparing Your System."

IMPORTANT!  {COMMO} is initially configured to use COM1.  If your modem is
not on COM1, there may be a conflict the first time you run {COMMO}.  To
avoid this possibility, you can first edit COMMO.SET with your own editor
or word processor, changing {por=1} to the proper value.  For example,
{por=3} if your modem is on COM3.


-----=====  The Best Way to Learn {COMMO} Quickly

1)   Read the next section "Quick Start Instructions," which will get you
     up and running.

2)   Read Appendix A "Setting Up Your Modem" for some very important
     instructions.

3)   Read through the section "{COMMO} Key Commands" to familiarize
     yourself with {COMMO}'s commands and features.

4)   Use Online Help as a reference while you use {COMMO}.


-----=====  Quick Start Instructions

1)   If you have a hard drive, create a subdirectory named "COMMO."  Copy
     all of the files from the {COMMO} archive or distribution diskette
     into this subdirectory.

     If your system has only floppy drives, copy the {COMMO} files to a
     formatted diskette.

     Now change to the {COMMO} subdirectory or to the diskette where you
     have copied the {COMMO} files.

2)   Run the "New User's Guide"  by typing "guide" at the DOS prompt.
     Follow the instructions carefully.  A macro will automatically take
     you on a tour of some of {COMMO}'s major features.

     When you are in the Setup File you will be in {COMMO}'s Internal
     Editor and you may change any part of the file using the arrow keys,
     PgUp, PgDn and other editing keys.  Press Alt+E for Edit Help to see a
     list of editing keys.

     You may need to change some of the items to conform to your system
     setup.  Note that {COMMO} only looks at the items that are contained
     in curly braces: e.g., {min=auto}.  All other text is treated as
     commentary and is not used by the program.



                                    -15-


     Most items will not need to be changed until you are more familiar
     with {COMMO}.  For now, check the following:

          The default Terminal Parameters.  These are the first five items
          in curly braces.  Make sure you have the correct port number.  If
          your modem is on COM2, change it to "2", COM3 to "3", etc.  Using
          COM2 it would look like this: {por=2}.

          In some cases you may have to change the port address and/or IRQ
          number for your serial port.  Find the corresponding "com" item
          and make the necessary changes.  For example, if your modem is on
          COM3 using IRQ 5, change {com=3,3e8,4} to {com=3,3e8,5}.

          The Modem Initialization String.  If you know the commands for
          your own modem, make the necessary adjustments.  If you don't,
          then leave it like it is.  Refer to Appendix A for more
          information.

          Check the items under "Paths and Files" (page down to see these).
          Make sure that the directories are valid.  Set them to your
          {COMMO} directory if you have no other preference.

     Press Esc to save the file and continue the tour.

3)   The next stop is the Dialing Directory.  To alter an entry or to add
     new ones, just press "E" to enter edit mode.  This is the same
     Internal Editor you used to modify the Setup File.  When you are
     finished making changes, press Esc to bring back the Selector Bar.
     Then press Esc again to continue.

4)   Next you will see a sample menu created by a {COMMO} macro.  Press
     Enter to continue and return to the Terminal Screen.  Then exit
     {COMMO} with the Alt+X command.

5)   From the DOS prompt type "commo" to restart the program.  The new
     Setup File items will now be in effect.

6)   When the Status Line is at the top or bottom of the screen, you are in
     the Terminal Screen.  Now you may press Alt+D to enter the Dialing
     Directory.  Use the up and down arrow keys to select an entry to call
     and press Enter.  {COMMO} will begin dialing.

7)   When a connection is made with a remote system, {COMMO} will return to
     the Terminal Screen where you may interact with the remote.

     NOTE:  If your modem does not seem to operate properly (no connection
     is made or the data is garbled), read Appendix A "Setting Up Your
     Modem."  You may need to change the Modem Initialization String in the
     Setup File.  If you change it, you will need to exit {COMMO} and
     restart the program.  Then try dialing again.



                                    -16-

-----=====  Preparing Your System

The following sections give startup instructions in greater detail.

Make sure that all of the files from the {COMMO} package are in one
directory or on one diskette.  Four of these files are required to run the
{COMMO} program:

     COMMO.EXE, the Program File
     COMMO.SET, the Setup File
     COMMO.FON, the Dialing Directory File
     COMMO.MAC, the Macro File

In addition, if Online Help is used (recommended):

     COMMO.HLP, the Online Help File

There are two ways to make sure that {COMMO} will be able to find all of
its files.  The first method is the simplest and should be used if you are
not too familiar with DOS commands:

1)   Make sure you are logged into the directory or disk drive where the
     files are located.  Then type "commo" at the DOS prompt.  If your
     files are in the directory "C:\COMMO" you would type the following
     commands (press the Enter key after each command):

          c:
          cd \commo
          commo

     Or if the files are on a diskette in drive A you would type:

          a:
          commo

     {COMMO} will remember where the files are, so you will be able to
     change directory or drive later without concern.

2)   The second method is a little more advanced, but allows you to run
     {COMMO} no matter which directory or drive you are currently logged
     into.  Use the SET command in DOS to store the {COMMO} path into the
     "environment."  If you place this command in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file
     you won't have to change directories or diskettes to run {COMMO}.  If
     your files are in the directory "C:\COMMO" the command would be:

          set commo=c:\commo

     If the files are on the diskette in drive B the command would be:

          set commo=b:

     Do not use any extra spaces in the SET command.  And remember to place
     the {COMMO} directory or drive in your PATH command.



                                    -17-


     IMPORTANT!  Be sure to check your "set commo=" command if you install
     {COMMO} into a different directory or onto another drive (or if you
     install a later release of the program).  If it points to the wrong
     directory, {COMMO} will not operate properly.


-----=====  Command Line Options


----------  Dialing Strings

Dialing Strings are used to indicate numbers to dial at program startup.
If present, they must be placed before any command line switches.  {COMMO}
will search the Dialing Directory for each string and mark the first entry
where a match is found (case is ignored).

The strings may consist of any part of a Dialing Directory entry line
(usually part of the system name) and may be separated by commas or spaces.
The following characters may not appear in a command line Dialing String:
space, comma, slash (/), curly braces.

After entries in the Dialing Directory are marked, {COMMO} will check for a
startup macro (specified on the command line or in the Setup File).  If a
startup macro is present, it will be started.  Otherwise Multi Number
Dialing of the marked systems will begin.

Examples:

     commo demodulator mas-bbs 4567

     commo demod,mas,4567

IMPORTANT!  The Modem Initialization String will normally be sent before
dialing begins.  Your modem should be turned on and ready to receive the
command string before you start {COMMO}.


----------  Switches

Case is ignored and the switches may be in any order (Dialing Strings must
precede all switches, however).

NOTE:  Environment variables may also be used to communicate data to
{COMMO} at program startup.  See the description of the SETVariable
function in Part II (MACRO.DOC).

/:label             Startup Macro.

     This switch can be used to override the "mac" item in the Setup File.
     The "label" is a one to eight character macro label.  If the label is
     found in the Macro File, macro execution will be started.  If the
     label is not found the switch will be ignored.



                                    -18-


/sfilename      Alternate Setup File         (default is COMMO.SET).
/dfilename      Alternate Dialing Directory  (default is COMMO.FON).
/mfilename      Alternate Macro File         (default is COMMO.MAC).
/hfilename      Alternate Online Help File   (default is COMMO.HLP).

     Only the filename should be specified.  The {COMMO} home directory
     will be assumed for the path.

     If an alternate Macro File is specified, it will become the resident
     Macro File (and its name will be the value of the built-in variable
     "_mac").

/knn                Scrollback Buffer size.

     This switch will override the "sbs" item in the Setup File.  "nn" is
     kilobytes and ranges from 0 to 64.

/vnn                Size of String Variable Space.

     This switch will override the "vsp" item in the Setup File.  "nn" is
     kilobytes and ranges from 1 to 64.

/iy or /in          Modem Initialization override.

     Forces the Modem Initialization String to be sent ("/iy") or not sent
     ("/in").  This will override the "min" item in the Setup File.

/{parms}            Default Terminal Parameters

     Any or all parameters may be specified in string form:

          {speed,format,port,terminal,delay}

     Included parameters will override those in the Setup File.

/b                  Enable Speech Friendly Interface

     This switch is used to force SFI to ON for the current session only.
     Users with speech synthesizers should set {sfi=yes} or {sfi=expert} in
     COMMO.SET for permanent SFI (the switch will no longer be needed).


Command line example:

     commo mas demod /:mailrun /dother.dir /k25 /v20 /in

     *    Two systems will be marked in the Dialing Directory.

     *    The macro "mailrun" will be started if it exists in the Macro
          File.

     *    The alternate Dialing Directory "other.dir" will be loaded.



                                    -19-


     *    The Scrollback Buffer will be set to 25k in size.

     *    The size of String Variable Space is set to 20k.

     *    The Modem Initialization String will not be sent.


-----=====  Initialization Procedure

When {COMMO} begins running it will read and process the Setup File,
COMMO.SET.  Then it will attempt to load into memory:

     1) COMMO.MAC, the resident Macro File
     2) COMMO.FON, the Dialing Directory

Any problems encountered will be reported.  These problems must be
corrected before restarting the program.

Automatic modem initialization will occur (the "/i" command line switch and
the "min" setup item can affect this).

{COMMO} will adapt to any video text mode that is set when the program is
started.  Check the items under "Video and Chat Mode" in the Setup File if
you need to change the video mode.  These items are described in more
detail in the section "Alt+G  Edit Setup File" later in this document.

If the display does not look right try executing the DOS command  "mode
co80" or "mode bw80" prior to starting {COMMO}.


-----=====  Terminal Screen

The Terminal Screen allows you to see the characters coming in from the
serial port.  Any characters that you type will be sent out to the serial
port.  If you are connected to another system you will be interacting with
that system.

Keep in mind that you will also be interacting with {COMMO} and with your
own computer via key commands (Alt keys, for example).  These key commands
have no effect on the remote system unless they cause characters to be sent
to the serial port (pressing Alt+W to send your password, for example).



                                    -20-

==========  {COMMO} Key Commands

The Alt keys shown in this section are the built-in default key assignments
for the various {COMMO} commands.  Once you are familiar with these
commands you may use macros to reassign any of the keys.

Keys used within the various command windows are properly detailed in
Online Help.  Please press F1 from any command window to invoke {COMMO}'s
context-related help system.

Note that certain program features are available only in macros.  Refer to
Part II (MACRO.DOC) for details.


-----=====  Alt+A  ASCII Upload

This command is used to send ASCII text files, such as prepared messages,
to the remote system.  Use it in situations where the remote is expecting
typed input or when you want to display text at the remote.  File to file
transfers should be performed with error checking protocols (e.g., Zmodem,
see "Uploading / Downloading").

In the ASCII Upload window you will be prompted to enter a path\filename.
You can also change the Pacing Character.  To select a file using the
picklist, press PgUp instead of Alt+A, then "A".  The current Pacing
Character will be used.

Several parameters are used to control an ASCII Upload:


----------  Line Pacing   ("pac" in COMMO.SET)

IMPORTANT!  Line Pacing is normally used when the remote is sending a
prompt for each line of typed input, such as "nn:" or "nn?", where "nn" is
a line number and ":" or "?" is the prompt or "Pacing Character."

{COMMO} will send each line when the Pacing Character is received (or after
waiting 5 seconds).  If there is a 5 second delay between the sending of
each line, then either you have the wrong Pacing Character or you don't
need Line Pacing (e.g., you don't need it when using a full-screen editor).

At any time, the Spacebar may be pressed to force transmission of the next
line.  This is useful when you've chosen the wrong Pacing Character or if
you want to send each line manually.  In the latter case, use any invalid
Pacing Character.

TIPS on using Line Pacing:

 *   The initial Pacing Character is configurable.  See "Alt+G  Edit Setup
     File."



                                    -21-

 *   The Pacing Character may be any character including control
     characters, e.g. "^m" or "|" for carriage return.  See Appendix D for
     details on how to represent special characters.

 *   The receive Translate Table can affect the Pacing Character if receive
     translation is ON.


----------  Character Pacing

You may insert a delay between each character using the Inter-Character
Delay feature.  This should be used only when the remote system is so slow
that it drops characters.  See "Set Terminal Parameters" for details.


----------  Stripping Linefeeds   ("slf" in COMMO.SET)

Strip linefeeds from your outgoing text in situations where you would
normally be typing the information (e.g., into a message editor).  If all
of your data displays on the same line at the remote, then you need to send
the linefeeds.


----------  Expanding Blank Lines   ("ebl" in COMMO.SET)

You may configure {COMMO} to send a space character whenever a blank line
is encountered in the text file you are sending.  This will prevent your
message from terminating prematurely (message editors often end the message
on an empty line).  Blank line expansion is not normally required when
sending to a "full screen" BBS editor.


-----=====  Alt+B  Send Break Signal

A one second Break Signal will be sent.  This signal is used by some online
systems to interrupt certain operations.  Use it only when the remote
system directs you to do so.

NOTE:  The duration of the Break Signal may be varied using the BREAk macro
function.  See Part II (MACRO.DOC) for details.


-----=====  Alt+C  Clear Screen

The Terminal Screen will be cleared and the current colors will be set to
the Setup File defaults.



                                    -22-

-----=====  Alt+D  Dialing Directory

The Dialing Directory is your database of telephone numbers.  From the
directory window you can select numbers to dial.  You can also update the
directory using the Internal Editor, dial a number manually or load a new
directory.

Refer to Online Help for a complete description of the commands available
in the Dialing Directory window.

NOTE:  Directory entries may be added easily without editing by using the
"D" selection on the Utility Menu (press Alt+U from the Terminal Screen).


----------  Dialing Directory Entry Example

File City BBS  {555-1234}  {pword}  {fcbbs}  {}  12/01/95
     [1]          [2]        [3]      [4]    [5]   [6]

     where:
               1.  The System Name
               2.  Telephone number
               3.  Password for this system
               4.  Linked Macro
               5.  Terminal Parameters
               6.  Date Last Called

TIPS on creating Dialing Directory entries:

 *   Any number of string variable items may be added following the
     Terminal Parameters item (see below).

 *   Do not use extra spaces within the curly braces (except in the phone
     number field).

 *   Items in curly braces are positional and must be present if any
     subsequent items are present on the same line.  Items which are not
     used may have a null string {} as a placeholder (null strings at the
     end of the line may be omitted).

 *   Directory entries are limited to one per line.  Lines may be up to 255
     characters in length.  {COMMO}'s Internal Editor will scroll
     horizontally to follow the cursor.

 *   Comments may be placed anywhere outside the curly braces or on
     separate lines.



                                    -23-

----------  1. System Name     File City BBS

Up to 40 characters in length,  it must NOT be enclosed in curly braces.
The System Name will be displayed on the Status Line after connection (if
the Signal Lights option is not selected).  It will also be part of a Usage
Log entry if the log is enabled.


----------  2. Telephone Number     {1-707-555-1234}

The Dialing Prefix, Telephone Number and Dialing Suffix are strung together
to form a dialing command (may be up to 128 characters total).  Spaces and
hyphens are ignored by most modems (your modem manual has more detailed
information on dialing commands).

Normally the default Dialing Prefix (usually "ATDT") and the default
Dialing Suffix (usually "|") will be used.  These are specified in the
Setup File.  You may also have any number of alternate prefixes and
suffixes by defining them with SET items in the Setup File.

For example, you might need to turn off modem error-correction when calling
a non-error-correcting modem.  The commands to control this vary from modem
to modem, but let's assume that the command is "\N0" to turn it off and
"\N3" to turn it on.  Then the Dialing Prefix you would use for the entries
where you want it off should be "AT \N0 DT" (spaces optional).  To define
this prefix, you could have this item in your Setup File:

     {set no_ec,AT \N0 DT}    Prefix to turn off EC

The directory entry to use it would be as follows:

     File City  {%no_ec%555-1234} {pword} {city} {}

The default prefix would contain the command to turn error-correction back
on:

     {set _dialpf,AT \N3 DT}    Default Dialing Prefix

The prefix "no_ec" will override the default prefix if it is at the very
beginning of the telephone number field (immediately following the left
curly brace).  Similarly, an override suffix may be specified if it is at
the very end of the field (immediately preceding the right curly brace).

Notice that these are variable names and must be bracketed between "%"
characters.  Variables may be placed anywhere else within the number field
as well, but they will not override the default prefix or suffix unless
they are at the very beginning or very end, respectively (insert a space
between the variable and the curly brace if you want the default AND the
variable).

You may use variables defined with SET items in the Setup File or variables
set within macros.



                                    -24-

IMPORTANT!  The tilde (~) will not work as a delay in the dialing command.
This is because the modem does not start dialing until it receives a
carriage return (the Default Suffix).  Therefore you must use the modem's
own delay character, which is usually a comma (,).  For example, use the
following prefix to disable Call Waiting (with most tone systems):

     {set _dialpf,ATDT *70,}    Default Dialing Prefix

This will cause the modem to dial "*70" and then delay two seconds before
sending the telephone number.

NOTE:  If you dial an entry in the directory and the telephone number field
is NULL (no characters between the left and right curly braces), then
{COMMO} will act exactly as if a connection had been made -- WITHOUT
actually dialing.  The password and any variables will be defined and the
Linked Macro will be started.  This is useful when you want to "call" a
host that is on a "direct connection."


----------  3. System Password     {pword}

A different Password String may be defined for each system that you call.
Passwords may be up to 64 characters in length.

The Password String may be sent by pressing Alt+W or by using the variable
"_pas" in a macro.

Passwords are invisible in the Dialing Directory window, but appear when
you enter Edit mode.

Characters in password strings follow the rules in Appendix D.


----------  4. Linked Macro     {fcbbs}

The general form for this item is:

     {label,filename}

          label
               A macro label where execution is to start (optional).  The
               label may be located in the resident Macro File or in the
               current auxiliary file.

          filename
               The filename of a Macro File (optional).  If the file is not
               already in memory (resident or auxiliary), it will be loaded
               as the auxiliary prior to searching for the label.  Do NOT
               specify a path; the {COMMO} home directory will be used.



                                    -25-

Examples:

     {fcbbs}
          Start at the label "fcbbs".

     {mailrun,fcbbs.mac}
          Start at the label "mailrun" after loading the auxiliary Macro
          File "fcbbs.mac".

     {,fcbbs.mac}
          Load the auxiliary Macro File "fcbbs.mac" and enter manual mode
          (no label given).

If a valid label is specified, the Linked Macro will be started when a
connection is established with the remote system.  If no macro is specified
(or the macro label is not found), {COMMO} will enter the Terminal Screen
in manual mode.

Additional options are available when using the DIAL macro function.  See
Part II (MACRO.DOC) for details.


----------  5. Terminal Parameters     {}

This item allows you to override any or all of the default Terminal
Parameters for the current call.

The default Terminal Parameters are initialized with the first five items
in the Setup File and may be changed during a session with the Alt+P key
command or with the DPARms macro function.

Prior to dialing each number, {COMMO} will change the current parameter
settings to the default Terminal Parameters.  Then it will set any
overrides specified in this item.

The general form for this item is:

     {speed,format,comport,terminal-type,delay}

For example, you might have:

     {,7,,V}

which would set the Data Format to "7e1" and the Terminal-type to VT102,
but would use the defaults for the other parameters.

See "Alt+P  Set Terminal Parameters" for a complete description of each
field.



                                    -26-

----------  6. Last Called     12/01/95

If this item is present, {COMMO} will replace it with the current date
whenever a connection is made with the system.  It may appear anywhere on
the entry line (do not enclose it in curly braces).  Place "00/00/00" to
start it.


----------  Variable Items     {name,string}

Any number of Variable Items may be included in a directory entry and will
be set just prior to dialing.  The "string" may not contain any variables.
The first Variable Item must follow the Terminal Parameters item (all other
items must be present as placeholders even if some are null).  Example
(must be on a single line):

     Foxhole  07/24/96  {555-1234} {pword} {mac} {}
     {bbsid,mbbsfox} ...

See also "Alt+N  Multi Number Dialing."


-----=====  Alt+G  Edit Setup File

Pressing Alt+G allows you to edit the Setup File, COMMO.SET (see "Internal
Editor" in Online Help for details on editing).  The Setup File contains
initial settings for many parameters used by {COMMO}.

Items changed with the editor are not effective until the next time you
start the program.  However, most items may be temporarily changed with key
commands and/or macro functions while the program is running.

Each item in the Setup File is enclosed in curly braces.  Items are
designated with three letter "keywords" and may be present in any order.
There are no "required" items.  Most missing items will take on the default
values shown in the examples below (AUT items and SET items have no default
values).

All text outside the curly braces is commentary and is ignored by {COMMO}.
Avoid using curly braces other than to bracket setup items.


----------  Predefining Variables with SET

SET items predefine variables in {COMMO}'s String Variable Space.  The
general form of a SET item is:



                                    -27-

     {set name,string}

          name
               Any valid variable name.

          string
               A text string to assign to the name.  The string may not
               contain any variables.

Any number of SET items may appear in the Setup File.  They may be used
later in macros, in telephone numbers, etc.

See Part II (MACRO.DOC) for more information on variables.


----------  Explanation of Setup File Items

Items are listed in the same order as they appear in the Setup File.


----------  Terminal and Modem

_________________________________________________________

{bps=38400}     Serial port data rate (2400, 38400, etc.)
{fmt=8n1}       Data format (8n1, 7e1, etc.)
{por=1}         Serial port number (1=COM1, 2=COM2, etc.)
{emu=A}         Emulation type (Ansi-bbs/Vt102/Tty)
{icd=0}         Inter-character delay (0-999)
_________________________________________________________

     These five items are the default Terminal Parameters.  They are the
     startup settings and will be restored each time a number is dialed.
     If necessary you can override any or all of these values by using the
     "Terminal Parameters" item in each Dialing Directory entry.

     See "Alt+P  Set Terminal Parameters" for a detailed description of
     each item.

     The speed field "bps" may also be used to indicate INT 14 driver mode.
     See Appendix L for details.

_____________________________________

{com=1,3f8,4}   Com1 port address/IRQ
{com=2,2f8,3}   Com2 port address/IRQ
{com=3,3e8,4}   Com3 port address/IRQ
{com=4,2e8,3}   Com4 port address/IRQ
_____________________________________

     These are the hardware serial port base address and IRQ assignments
     (the settings shown are the defaults).  COM3 and COM4 usually require
     a different IRQ setting.



                                    -28-


     NOTE:  If you need to define more than four ports, you can add extra
     "com" items (up to "com=16,...").

     Port addresses are in hexadecimal and may range from 0 to ffff (use
     addresses below 200 with caution).  If the documentation shows a range
     of addresses, such as "3f8-3ff," use the first value as the base
     address.

     IRQ numbers are decimal and may range from 2 to 15 (avoid use of IRQ
     numbers that are used by system hardware, such as 6, 8, 13 or 14).  If
     your serial port hardware is configured for IRQ 2, you may get better
     results on AT class machines if you specify IRQ 9 in {COMMO}.

     The serial port base address and IRQ number for the current port are
     available to macros in the built-in variables "_pad" and "_irq"
     respectively.

     You can also specify the maximum speed or "frequency" for each serial
     port by adding a fourth parameter (default is 115200).  For example,
     if you have a port that has a frequency of 256000 you might have:

          {com=4,2e8,5,256000}

     The frequency value is the speed that results when the Baud Rate
     Divisor is equal to one (which is usually the crystal frequency
     divided by 16).  It may be as high as 40,000,000 bps.

______________________________________________________

{set _modini,~~AT S0=0 S7=180 E1 Q0 V1 X4 &C1 &D2 |~~}
    Modem Init String (2400 bps and higher)
______________________________________________________

     This item defines the reserved variable "_modini" (notice that the
     string itself begins following the comma).

     The Modem Initialization String is normally sent to your modem when
     {COMMO} is started or when you press Alt+O.

     If you are using a 1200 bps modem you should remove the "&C1 &D2"
     commands.

     See Appendix A "Setting Up Your Modem" for more information.

_________________________________________________

{min=auto}   Send Modem Init String (auto/yes/no)
_________________________________________________

     If this is set to "auto" {COMMO} will send the Modem Initialization
     String at program startup only if carrier detect is off.  This allows
     you to exit the program and restart while still online.



                                    -29-


     If "yes" {COMMO} will send the string regardless of the state of
     carrier detect.  If "no" {COMMO} will not send the string.

     You can override this item with the "/iy" or "/in" command line
     switch.

_________________________________________________

{hfc=auto}
    Hardware (RTS/CTS) Flow Control (auto/yes/no)
{sfc=no}
    Software (XON/XOFF) Flow Control (yes/no)
_________________________________________________

     These are used to control the flow of data between your computer and
     the remote system.  They prevent loss of data when one end can send
     faster than the other end can process the information.

     The "auto" setting for Hardware Flow Control should be used in most
     cases.  {COMMO} will enable/disable Hardware Flow Control based on the
     state of the CTS (Clear To Send) signal.  The other settings should
     not be used unless you have an unusual hardware configuration.

     Software Flow Control may be set to "yes" when {COMMO} is used with
     slower, non-buffered modems (e.g., 1200 or 2400 bps) or when required
     on some packet switching networks.  Note that this setting also
     affects Zmodem file transfers.

          IMPORTANT!  Do not confuse this setting with XON/XOFF in your
          modem, which should be turned off for use with {COMMO}.

     See Appendix C for more information on flow control.

_____________________________________________________

{sld=no}   Stop serial input during disk I/O (yes/no)
_____________________________________________________

     This should be set to "yes" if your system drops characters when a
     disk (hard or floppy) is accessed.  The symptoms are:  missing
     characters in the Terminal Screen when capture is on, or excessive
     CRC/csum errors during internal protocol file transfers.

     This is equivalent to what some programs call "handshake slow."  In
     {COMMO} it works in conjunction with Hardware Flow Control (RTS/CTS),
     so both {COMMO} and your modem must have Hardware Flow Control
     engaged.

     If you use an external protocol program be sure to set the "handshake
     slow" parameter in that program as well.

     See also the "esp" item below.



                                    -30-


___________________________________________

{esp=no}   Enhance serial priority (yes/no)
___________________________________________

     Try setting this item to "yes" if your system drops characters when
     TSR programs are installed (some of the symptoms are listed under the
     "sld" item).  "esp" and "sld" may be tried in any combination.

     NOTE:  This feature is automatically disabled when {COMMO} detects
     DESQview, OS/2 or Windows (In DESQview set "Optimize Communications"
     to "yes" for the same result).

     See also the "sld" item above.

____________________________________________

{dex=no}   Drop DTR and RTS on exit (yes/no)
____________________________________________

     Leave this "no" if you want to exit {COMMO} and return while still
     connected to a host.  "Yes" will normally cause the modem to hang up
     when exiting the program.

_______________________________________

{enq=no}   Answer ENQ with ACK (yes/no)
_______________________________________

     Some hosts send an ENQ control character (^E) periodically and require
     that the terminal "answer back" with an ACK (^F).  Set this item to
     "yes" only if your host requires this.

____________________________________________

{ncr=nocar}   Macro to execute on NO CARRIER
____________________________________________

     {COMMO} will execute the macro specified here when the Carrier Detect
     modem signal is lost.  This signal normally comes on when your modem
     connects with a host system, and goes off when the call is terminated.

     If a command window is on screen, the macro will activate when the
     window is exited.  If a macro is running when carrier is lost, the
     macro will be STOPped and the macro at the label will be started.

     {COMMO} will search for the label first in the auxiliary Macro File,
     then in the resident file.  If the label is not found, {COMMO} will
     continue as usual.



                                    -31-

     TIPS on using the carrier lost macro:

      *   IMPORTANT!  This feature is not enabled until a connection is
          made using {COMMO}'s Auto Dialer (or by using the "E" switch on
          the NOCArrier macro function).

      *   The macro label can be changed or cancelled using the NOCArrier
          macro function.  See Part II (MACRO.DOC) for details.

      *   Be sure that you have your modem configured to provide the
          Carrier Detect signal.  See Appendix A for modem information.

___________________________________________________________

{set zr_mode,r}   Zmodem like-named file mode (s/r/n/o)
                    s=skip, r=resume, n=rename, o=overwrite
___________________________________________________________

     This variable tells {COMMO} what to do when a file being received with
     Zmodem already exists in your download directory.  See "PgUp/PgDn
     Uploading/Downloading" for details.

     NOTE:  This variable can be changed at any time by pressing "M" in the
     Download Protocol Menu.

_______________________________________________

{aut=pzbr,^xB00}       Auto Receive, Zmodem DL
{aut=phbr,HS*^bR}      Auto Receive, HS/Link DL
_______________________________________________

     The general form for this item is:  {aut=label,string}.  When the
     specified string (up to 32 characters, case ignored) is received, the
     macro will be started.

     These are normally used for automatically starting downloads, but may
     be used to trigger any macro upon receiving any string.  For example,
     you can start Zmodem uploads automatically by adding this line to
     COMMO.SET:

          {aut=pzbs,^xB01}     Auto Zmodem upload

     Up to 16 Auto Receive Strings may be specified.  Operates in Terminal
     Mode only (use SSLOok/CALOok/GOLOok/LOOKfor in macros).

     See also "{COMMO} Auto Receive" and the AUTO macro function.



                                    -32-

_______________________________________________

{rtr=}   Receive Translate Table initialization
{str=}   Send Translate Table initialization
_______________________________________________

     These items are used to place values into the character translation
     tables at program startup and, if desired, to turn translation ON.
     Multiple receive or send items may be present.

     Character translation is used when you wish certain characters to be
     changed into other characters as they are received from, or as they
     are sent to, the remote system.  You may also cause received
     characters to be ignored.

     Examples:

          {rtr=y,7,0,36,156}

               Turn ON receive translation ("y").

               Change the bell character (ASCII 7) to null (ASCII 0, which
               will not display).

               Change the "$" (ASCII 36) to ASCII 156.

          {str=#26,97,65,42,43,#10,48,128}

               Change 26 consecutive values starting at 97 to consecutive
               values starting at 65.  This will change all lowercase
               letters (ASCII 97 to 122) to uppercase letters (ASCII 65 to
               90).

               Change the "*" (ASCII 42) to a "+" (ASCII 43).

               Change 10 consecutive values starting at 48 to consecutive
               values starting at 128.  This will change the digits 0
               through 9 (ASCII 48 to 57) to ASCII 128 to 137.

               The ON/OFF state of send translation will not be changed (no
               "y" or "n" is present).

     A "y", to turn translation ON, must be the first argument, if present.
     It may be used on any "rtr" or "str" item and will apply to all 256
     values in either the receive table or the send table.  Note that
     translation defaults to OFF when {COMMO} is started.

     Use a PAIR of arguments to change a single value.

     Use THREE arguments to change a range of consecutive values to another
     range of consecutive values.  The "#" operator on the first argument
     specifies the number of values to change, followed by the starting
     values for each range.



                                    -33-


     Changing any character to ASCII 0 (null) will cause the character to
     be ignored in most situations.  For example, it will not display, will
     not appear in a Capture File (unless RAW mode is used) and will be
     ignored by macro functions such as LOOKfor and GETString.

     The macro functions RTRAn and STRAn have similar argument lists.  In
     addition they allow you to restore each Translate Table to default
     values and to turn translation ON and OFF without disturbing the
     values in the tables.  See Part II (MACRO.DOC) for more details.


----------  Paths and Files

______________________________________________

{set uldir,c:\commo}   Path to find uploads
{set dldir,c:\commo}   Path to place downloads
______________________________________________

     These variables are used in some of the macros in COMMO.MAC and
     SAMPLES.MAC, primarily in the Uploading and Downloading macros.  They
     are not reserved variables, so you may change their names if you
     change the macros.  Do not use a "\" at the end of the paths.

_________________________________________________________

{set protodir,c:\commo}   Path to find external protocols
_________________________________________________________

     This is the path where you keep your external protocol programs.  Copy
     the executable programs (e.g., HSLINK.EXE or KERMIT.EXE) into this
     directory and {COMMO} will know where to find them.  Do not use a "\"
     at the end of the path.

________________________________

{set _uselog,c:\commo\commo.log}
    Path\filename for Usage Log
________________________________

     This is a reserved variable that tells {COMMO} where to find your
     Usage Log.  The Usage Log keeps a record of the calls you make.  If a
     valid path\filename is specified, entries will be made when:

          1) You connect to a system.
          2) You transfer a file using an internal protocol (except BPlus).
          3) You disconnect (or exit {COMMO}).
          4) The macro function OFFLog executes.

     IMPORTANT!  In order for the log to function properly your modem must
     be set to provide "true Carrier Detect" (see Appendix A).  The macro
     function OFFLog is provided for situations where this is not possible.



                                    -34-


     Use a null path\filename or remove this item to disable the Usage Log.
     A null path\filename would look like this:

          {set _uselog}

     If you specify the same log file as used by an external protocol
     program, you will have a complete record of your calls, including
     upload/download statistics.

     If a filename only (no path) is specified, the current directory will
     be used.  The path\filename of an open Capture File is not allowed.

     See also Appendix F "Usage Log Format."

__________________________________

{cap=c:\commo\commo.cap}
    Path\filename for Capture File
__________________________________

     This is the initial setting for the Capture File path\filename.  It
     may be changed later with the Alt+1 or Alt+L key commands or with the
     CAPTure macro function (do not try to change the "_cap" built-in
     variable with SETV).

     If a filename only (no path) is specified, the current directory will
     be used.

     See also "Alt+1  Capture File Options."

_______________________________________

{scr=c:\commo\commo.scr}
    Path\filename for Screen Image File
_______________________________________

     This is the initial setting for the Screen Image File path\filename.
     It may be changed later with the Alt+I key command, with the SCREen
     macro function, or from within the Scrollback Buffer window (do not
     try to change the "_scr" built-in variable with SETV).

     If a filename only (no path) is specified, the current directory will
     be used.  The path\filename of an open Capture File is not allowed.

     See also "Alt+I  Screen Image Save" and "Alt+K  Scrollback"



                                    -35-

_______________________________________

{swp=c:\commo\swap$$$.1}
    Path\filename for Swap to Disk File
________________________________________

     You can free up most of the memory occupied by {COMMO} when you use
     the Shell to DOS key command or the EXECute macro function.  The file
     specified in this item will be used to save the program and data
     during a Swap to Disk.

     IMPORTANT!  You must also specify the "S" switch on any EXECute or
     SHELl macro functions where swapping is desired.

     A unique filename not likely to be used by other applications should
     be specified.  If the file already exists, {COMMO} will attempt to
     modify the name by changing the last character to an "A", then to a
     "B", etc.

     Before using this feature, read "Alt+S  Shell to DOS" and see also the
     EXECute and SHELl macro functions in Part II (MACRO.DOC).

_______________________________________________

{set _exted}   Command line for external editor
_______________________________________________

     An external editor may be defined to edit the Dialing Directory and
     Macro Files directly from their respective windows.  See Appendix K
     for details.


----------  Dialing

____________________________________________

{set _dialpf,ATDT }   Default Dialing Prefix
{set _dialsf, |}      Default Dialing Suffix
____________________________________________

     These reserved variables define strings that will be used to create
     the modem dialing command.  The prefix, telephone number and suffix
     will be strung together in that order and sent to your modem when you
     dial.

     Any number of additional prefixes and suffixes may be used by
     including variables in the telephone number string (see "Alt+D
     Dialing Directory" for details).

     Use "ATDP" if you don't have a tone line.  Use "ATDT9," to get an
     outside line on a switchboard.  The suffix is usually just a carriage
     return (|).  Your modem manual has additional tips on dialing prefixes
     and suffixes.



                                    -36-


_____________________________________________

{dct=45}   Dialing cycle time limit (seconds)
_____________________________________________

     The maximum time to wait before hanging up and redialing.  Adjust if
     your modem needs more time to complete a call.

__________________________________________________

{idt=4}   Delay between dialing attempts (seconds)
__________________________________________________

     Amount of time to wait between dialing attempts.  Adjust to give
     incoming calls a greater chance of getting through.

______________________________________________

{dcn=c}   Method to cancel dialing (c/d/s,...)
______________________________________________

     This item defines the method that {COMMO} will use to cancel a dialing
     attempt in progress.  Dialing is cancelled when you press Esc or when
     {COMMO} times out.  Options are:

          c    Send a carriage return
          d    Drop DTR
          s    Send a user-defined string

     The "s" option lets you define your own string.  The string can be up
     to 8 characters in length, including any carets or tildes (see
     Appendix D).  Here's an example that sends a Ctrl+X, followed by a
     half-second delay and a carriage return:

          {dcn=s,^x~|}       Fictitious example

_________________________________________

{set _dialsr,CARRIER ,CONNECT}
    Dialing success response(s)
{set _dialfr,BUSY,NO CARRIER,NO DIALTONE}
    Dialing failure response(s)
{set _dialir,RING}
    Inter-dial response(s)
_________________________________________

     These reserved variables each define a list of response strings that
     are returned by your modem during dialing operations.  Most "Hayes
     compatible" modems use similar responses, but there may be subtle
     differences.  Consult your modem manual for details.



                                    -37-

     "Success" responses are received when the modem has connected with a
     remote modem.  "Failure" responses occur when the number being called
     is busy, doesn't answer or when something is wrong with the telephone
     line.  {COMMO} will automatically redial the number after a failed
     attempt.

     Inter-dial Delay responses may occur during the delay between dialing
     attempts, usually when someone is trying to call you.  These may be
     handled by using the Inter-dial Delay macro label in the DIAL macro
     function.  See Part II (MACRO.DOC) for details.

     Some modems use a CARRIER response to indicate the modem speed, e.g.
     CARRIER 14400.  In this case using CARRIER instead of CONNECT will
     improve the accuracy of the Usage Log.  In order to avoid confusion
     with a NO CARRIER response, you should use:

          {set _dialsr,CARRIER }   [Notice the space after "CARRIER"]

     Responses are case sensitive and there should be no null strings or
     extra spaces.

_____________________________________________________

{cdm=yes}   Clear dialing marks when loading (yes/no)
_____________________________________________________

     If this is "yes", {COMMO} will clear all dialing marks when loading a
     Dialing Directory file.  This applies at program startup and whenever
     a directory file is loaded during a session.  Note that the marks are
     always saved with a file when it is written to disk.

     Set this item to "no" if you want to retain the dialing marks.

_____________________________________________

{dcm=yes}   Display connect messages (yes/no)
_____________________________________________

     If this is "yes", {COMMO} will display any messages received from the
     modem during a successful dialing cycle.  The messages will be
     displayed to the screen after the connection has been established.
     These messages are useful for diagnostic purposes and for verifying
     the actual modem connect speed and protocol.

     Set this item to "no" if you don't want the messages displayed.



                                    -38-

----------  Video and Chat Mode

____________________________________________________

{sfi=no}   Speech Friendly Interface (yes/no/expert)
____________________________________________________

     If this is "yes" {COMMO} will be much friendlier to users with speech
     synthesizer systems (these enable blind users to read the computer
     display).  Set it to "expert" to reduce the amount of talking in pop-
     up windows.

     Major differences with speech turned on:

      *   Terminal Screen data, input fields and many information and error
          messages will be displayed using the BIOS.

      *   The up and down arrow keys move the hardware cursor in windows
          such as Online Help, Scrollback and pop-up menus.  This is
          similar to being in a text editor, where the data is read by
          moving the cursor.

      *   In the Dialing Directory and File Selector windows, {COMMO} will
          make distinctive sounds when entries are marked or unmarked (for
          dialing or uploading).  The T and R keys will mark and unmark
          entries without moving the Selector Bar.  If the entry is already
          in the desired state, a short buzz will sound.

      *   Distinctive sounds will be made when opening or closing a Capture
          File with the Alt+L (or Alt+1) key command.

     Use the "S" selection on the Alt+U Utility Menu to toggle this feature
     on/off, if necessary.  See also the SFICtrl macro function in Part II
     (MACRO.DOC) and the "_sfi" built-in variable in Appendix I.

_____________________________________________________

{sbs=10}   Scrollback buffer size in kilobytes (0-64)
_____________________________________________________

     The actual minimum size of the buffer (which {COMMO} will compute)
     depends on the number of screen lines and columns.  For a 25x80 screen
     it will be about 4k bytes -- it will be larger for screens with more
     lines and/or columns.

     Setting the size to 0 disables the Scrollback feature.  See also
     "Alt+K  Scrollback."



                                    -39-

___________________________________

{sts=yes}   Status Line on (yes/no)
___________________________________

     If this is set to "yes" the Status Line will be on when {COMMO} is
     started.

_________________________________________________

{slt=yes}   Status Line at top of screen (yes/no)
_________________________________________________

     If this is "yes" the Status Line will appear at the top of the
     Terminal Screen.  Otherwise it will be at the bottom.

___________________________________________________

{adn=yes}
    Auto-detect number of rows and columns (yes/no)
___________________________________________________

     Set this item to "yes" if you want {COMMO} to automatically obtain the
     current number of rows and columns from the system at program startup
     (most systems provide this information).  If the display is
     unsatisfactory, you may have to set this to "no."

     {COMMO} will support 25 to 127 rows and 80 to 255 columns.  Note that
     the display must be in the proper mode before starting the program
     (EGA/VGA adapters usually come with utilities to set modes such as
     50x80, 44x132, etc.).  You may also define an alternate video mode and
     switch to it after starting the program (see next item).

     NOTE:  The cursor may not display properly in 43 line mode.  This is a
     problem with some EGA adapters.

______________________________________________

{avm=}   Alternate video mode (mode,rows,cols)
______________________________________________

     This item allows you to define an "alternate" video mode (only text
     modes are allowed).  The "normal" video mode is the mode that is in
     effect when {COMMO} is started and will be restored automatically when
     you exit the program.  If you Shell to DOS or use the EXECute macro
     function, the current mode will remain in effect.

     One important application for "avm" is the 132 column feature in VT102
     emulation.  Your host will send codes that cause {COMMO} to switch
     video modes automatically.  You can also switch to the alternate video
     mode (and back to the normal mode) using the VIDEo macro function.



                                    -40-

     The mode field must be expressed as a hexadecimal number, while the
     rows and columns are decimal numbers (minimum dimensions are 25x80).
     As an example, suppose that your video adapter uses mode 23h
     (hexadecimal) to support a 25x132 screen.  Then you would write this
     item as:

          {avm=23,25,132}     Alternate video mode

     Set mode "3" to use the standard 50 line mode supported by VGA
     adapters or the standard 43 line mode supported by EGA adapters.  For
     example:

          {avm=3,50,80}     Alternate video mode

     The following macro will restore the normal mode when Shelling to DOS
     and bring back the alternate mode upon return (press Alt+S to
     activate):

          {:als} {video-m0} {shell} {video-m1} {}

     Note that some screen "modes" are not hardware modes and cannot be
     toggled using this feature.  Consult your video adapter manual for a
     list of hardware modes supported (or contact the manufacturer).

__________________________________________________

{edi=yes}   Startup editor in insert mode (yes/no)
__________________________________________________

     Set this to "yes" if you want insert mode turned on the first time you
     start the Internal Editor.  This also applies to the input field
     editor.

____________________________________________________

{ucw=18}   Number of lines in upper Chat Mode window
____________________________________________________

     This allows you to adjust the line "split" in Chat Mode.  The minimum
     number of lines in the upper or lower window is three.

____________________________________________________

{swe=no}
    Send when Enter is pressed in Chat Mode (yes/no)
____________________________________________________

     If "no" {COMMO} will send each character as you type it.  If "yes"
     {COMMO} will wait until you press Enter, then send all that you have
     typed.



                                    -41-

___________________________________________________

{bsc=no}
    Use BIOS for Terminal Screen scrolling (yes/no)
{sno=no}
    Snow checking on CGA adapter (yes/no)
___________________________________________________

     Change these video parameters only if necessary.

      *   BIOS scrolling enables external scrollback programs to work, but
          is slower and may cause "flicker" in certain displays.

      *   Snow checking will also slow the display, but will help to
          eliminate the "snow" effect on CGA monitors.

___________________________________

{gdc=}   Graphic display characters
___________________________________

     This item allows you to specify the graphic characters used by {COMMO}
     to form the various display windows and is provided for compatibility
     with display adapters used in certain countries.

     When using this item, twelve ASCII character codes may be listed
     (omitted fields will revert to the defaults).  Codes are specified as
     decimal numbers from 1 to 255 (0, 10 and 13 are not allowed).

     As an example, here is how the default characters would be listed:

          {gdc=213,184,212,190,205,179,185,204,176,250,177,178}

     where:

               213 = upper left box corner
               184 = upper right box corner
               212 = lower left box corner
               190 = lower right box corner
               205 = horizontal line
               179 = vertical line
               185 = left side of box title
               204 = right side of box title
               176 = file window title fill
               250 = various fills (dots)
               177 = Online Help separator bar
               178 = file transfer progress bar



                                    -42-

----------  Sounds

____________________________________

{snd=yes}   Master Sound on (yes/no)
____________________________________

     If this is set to "yes" sound will be on when {COMMO} is started.  If
     "no" all sounds will be silenced.

_____________________________________________

{dca=yes}   Dialing connection alarm (yes/no)
_____________________________________________

     Controls the alarm that signals a connection when Auto Dialing is
     used.  Note that the alarm will not be sounded when a valid Linked
     Macro is specified in the Dialing Directory.

________________________________________________

{afa=yes}   ASCII Upload finished alarm (yes/no)
________________________________________________

     Controls the alarm that signals completion of an ASCII Upload.

___________________________________________________

{ers=yes}   Make sounds on errors/warnings (yes/no)
___________________________________________________

     This controls the special sounds made for certain errors and warning
     messages.

_______________________________________________

{rng=3}   Maximum number of alarm rings (0-999)
_______________________________________________

     Sets the number of times the alarm will ring.  You may press a key at
     any time to stop the alarm.


----------  ASCII Upload

_____________________________________________

{ebl=yes}   Expand blank lines (yes/no)
{slf=yes}   Strip outgoing linefeeds (yes/no)
{pac=}      ASCII Upload Pacing Character
_____________________________________________

     These items are used with the ASCII Upload feature.



                                    -43-


     Blank line expansion sends a space and a carriage return, instead of
     just a carriage return for lines with no data.  This prevents BBS line
     editors from terminating prematurely.

     Stripping linefeeds gives the data the appearance of being entered
     manually.  Linefeeds should not be stripped when the remote is not in
     "edit" mode.

     The Pacing Character shown is null (no pacing).  To use a ":" for
     pacing, change the item to

          {pac=:}

     See "Alt+A  ASCII Upload" for more details.


----------  Miscellaneous

____________________________

{mac=}   Startup macro label
____________________________

     This item indicates a macro (in the resident Macro File) to run when
     {COMMO} starts up.  The command line switch "/:" can be used to
     override it.  See "Command Line Options."

     Example:  {mac=begin}

_________________________________________________

{vsp=3}   Variable Space size in kilobytes (1-64)
_________________________________________________

     This may need to be increased if you run macros that use a lot of
     variables.  Usually the author of the macro will indicate how much
     space is required.

__________________________________________________

{esf=8}   Edit space for files in kilobytes (0-64)
__________________________________________________

     This is the amount of expansion memory {COMMO} will allocate for each
     file that can be edited with the Internal Editor.  When the expansion
     space is used up, the file may be reloaded to obtain more.  See
     Appendix K for details on {COMMO} support files.



                                    -44-

___________________________________________

{edd=no}   Enter Dialing Directory (yes/no)
___________________________________________

     If this is set to "yes" the Dialing Directory will be entered when
     {COMMO} is started (if no Dialing Strings or Startup Macro are present
     on the command line).

_________________________________

{loc=no}   Local Echo on (yes/no)
_________________________________

     If this is set to "yes" Local Echo will be on when {COMMO} is started.
     See also "Alt+T  Set Toggles."

____________________________________

{sig=no}   Signal Lights on (yes/no)
____________________________________

     If this is set to "yes" Signal Lights will be on when {COMMO} is
     started.

_____________________________________

{cpf=no}   Capture File open (yes/no)
_____________________________________

     If this is set to "yes" Capture will be open when {COMMO} is started.
     See "Alt+1  Capture File Options."

_______________________________________________

{cpm=screen}   Capture Mode (screen/filter/raw)
_______________________________________________

     See "Alt+1  Capture File Options" for a description of each mode.

_________________________________________________________

{tsn=yes}   Display time of day with System Name (yes/no)
_________________________________________________________

     If this is "yes" the time of day will be displayed on the right side
     of the Status Line.  Set this to "no" if you want the System Name to
     have more space.  Note that the time is always shown when the Signal
     Lights are displayed.



                                    -45-

___________________________________________________

{dat=mdy}
    Order of date parameters (m=month,d=day,y=year)
___________________________________________________

     This item allows you to specify any order for the three date
     parameters.  The default shown would display May 20, 1996 as 05/20/96.
     "ymd" would display it as 96/05/20.

     This format will appear in the Date Last Called field of the Dialing
     Directory, the Usage Log and the built-in variable "_dat".

___________________________________

{tim=12}   Time format (12/24 hour)
___________________________________

     You can specify 12 or 24 hour time format.  12 hour will add "am" or
     "pm" as in "2:30 pm".  24 hour would show the same time as "14:30".

     The time format appears on the Status Line, in the Usage Log and in
     the built-in variable "_tim".

_______________________________________________

{tek=yes}   Test for enhanced keyboard (yes/no)
_______________________________________________

     Set this to "no" only if your system (BIOS) does not support the
     enhanced (101 key) keyboard.  Normally this applies only to older, XT
     class machines.

__________________________________

{dmk=8300}
    Scan code for Doorway Mode key
__________________________________

     This item defines the key used to enter and exit Doorway Mode.  The
     default key is Alt+=.  The scan code (such as "8300") is obtained by
     pressing Alt+K in {COMMO}'s Internal Editor, then pressing the key you
     wish to use.

     Note that a corresponding macro must exist in the Macro File.  The
     macro (provided in COMMO.MAC) to use with Alt+= is:

          {:al=} {doorway} {}

     If you change the key definition in COMMO.SET, be sure to change the
     key-label in COMMO.MAC.



                                    -46-

_____________________________________

{mky=}   User-defined macro key-label
_____________________________________

     This item allows you to assign a macro key-label to almost any key or
     key combination on your keyboard.  Up to 32 "mky" items may be used
     (any more will be ignored).  Here are some examples:

          {mky=cta,1e01}     Ctrl+A
          {mky=bsh,2b5c}     Backslash

     Any valid, three character label may be used as a user-defined key-
     label (such as "cta" in the example).  The scan code (such as "1e01")
     is obtained by pressing Alt+K in {COMMO}'s Internal Editor, then
     pressing the key you wish to use.

     For additional information and certain restrictions, see Appendix H
     "{COMMO} Macro Key-labels."

________________________________________________

{set sel_up,no}
    Go directly to selector for uploads (yes/no)
________________________________________________

     Set this item to "yes" and {COMMO} will skip the input prompt for a
     filename.  Instead you will see the File Selector immediately.


----------  Colors

_________________________________________

{clm=auto}   Color Mode (auto/color/mono)
_________________________________________

     If this item is set to "auto," {COMMO} will auto detect the display
     type and use the proper mode.  The default modes are "color" for color
     displays and "mono" for monochrome displays.

     If you have a laptop with a black and white LCD display (VGA, EGA or
     CGA compatible), you can use the "mono" mode to improve the contrast
     (color items below will be ignored).

     Setting the mode to "color" will force the use of the
     colors/attributes in the items below.  This is useful if you have a
     monochrome display and you prefer to set your own attributes.

     Press F7 while editing the Setup File (or other files) to pop up the
     color chart.  You may use it with color or monochrome displays.  Color
     settings have no effect when the Color Mode is "mono" (or "auto" with
     a monochrome display).



                                    -47-


     Colors may range from 0-9,A-F.  Background colors from 8-F will cause
     blinking unless bright background colors are enabled in the video
     hardware.

     NOTE:  Terminal Screen colors/attributes may still be changed if ANSI
     display data is received from the host.  It may be necessary to adjust
     your settings at the host.

_________________________________________________

{kts=07,20}   Terminal Screen, Status Line colors
_________________________________________________

     For the most accurate ANSI-BBS or VT102 terminal emulation, the
     Terminal Screen colors should be set to "07".  In many cases, {COMMO}
     uses this color when clearing portions of the screen or when a "reset
     attributes" sequence is received from the host.

___________________________________________________

{kdd=70,1b,20}   Dialing Directory window colors
{kmf=70,0d,30}   Macro File window colors
{kaf=70,0c,30}   Auxiliary Macro File window colors
{kvs=70,0a,20}   Variable Space window colors
{ksb=70,2f,30}   Scrollback window colors
{khf=70,03,1b}   Online Help file window colors
{kfs=70,1b,30}   File Selector window colors
{kes=70,30,20}   Edit Setup File window colors
{kee=70,20,1b}   Edit external file window colors
___________________________________________________

     These are the "file" window colors.  The three parameters are the
     text, titles and highlight colors, respectively.  The highlight colors
     are used for the Selector Bar (when applicable) and for inputs and
     messages on the bottom line.

________________________________________________________

{kcf=70,1e}           Capture File Options window colors
{ksi=70,5f}           Screen Image file window colors
{kdw=70,30}           Dialer window colors
{kau=70,4e}           ASCII Upload window colors
{kpw=70,6b}           Protocol window colors
{kid=70,30}           Input data window colors
{kst=70,5f}           Set Toggles window colors
{ktp=70,1a}           Terminal Parameters window colors
{kep=70,4b}           Execute Preview window colors
{kmw=4e,4e}           Message window colors
{set menu_clr,70,1b}  Menu colors
________________________________________________________



                                    -48-

     These are the "pop-up" window colors.  The two parameters are the text
     and border, respectively.  The "Macro Menu" colors are used by some of
     the standard menus in COMMO.MAC.  To set colors for individual menus,
     set the "_mcolor" variable just prior to executing the MENU function.


     Colors should be set so that the different parts of the screen
     contrast with each other.  For example the Status Line should be
     easily discernable from the rest of the Terminal Screen.  And the
     borders and highlights should stand out against the text portion of
     the file windows.


-----=====  Alt+H  Hang Up

Disconnects the call by dropping DTR.  This will put the modem "on-hook" if
response to DTR is enabled (see Appendix A).  If your modem does not
respond properly, you may define a macro to send a "hang-up" command.  For
modems using the "AT" command set the macro would look like this:

     {:alh} {send ~~~+++~~~ATH|} {}    Press Alt+H to hangup

This macro will run when Alt+H is pressed, but you may assign any key you
like.


-----=====  Alt+I  Screen Image Save

The Screen Image Save is used to append all of the text currently on the
screen to a disk file.

TIPS on using Screen Image Save:

 *   Set the filename to "PRN", "LPT1" or "LPT2" to print the screen.

 *   If the file cannot be opened, the old path\filename is retained.

 *   The path\filename may not be the same as the path\filename of an open
     Capture File.

NOTE:  The current Screen Image Save file is also used to save blocks of
text in the Scrollback feature.

See also "Alt+1  Capture File Options" and "Alt+K  Scrollback."


-----=====  Alt+K  Scrollback

Scrollback allows you to see what was previously on your screen.  Screen
data is saved to a memory buffer (the size is defined in the Setup File).
Set the size to 0 to disable the feature entirely.



                                    -49-

A number of commands are available in Scrollback (keys to press are shown
in Online Help):

1)   You can scroll up or down, page up or down and go to the beginning or
     end of the buffer.

2)   Use the String Search feature available in all {COMMO} file windows.

3)   Write any part of the Scrollback buffer to the current Screen Image
     Save file.

4)   Change the Screen Image Save path\filename.

5)   Exit and return to the same place the next time you enter Scrollback.

6)   Jump directly to the Dialing Directory or Macro File windows.


-----=====  Alt+L  Capture File Options

This is a special version the Alt+1 command that is friendlier to speech
users.  See "Alt+1  Capture File Options" for details.


-----=====  Alt+M  Macro File

The Macro File window displays {COMMO} Macro Files which are currently in
memory -- resident and auxiliary.  Resident macros are loaded at program
startup (the default resident file is COMMO.MAC).

An auxiliary Macro File can be loaded, replaced or unloaded at any time
using the CALL, GOTO and UNLOad macro functions.  An auxiliary can also be
loaded manually within the window.  See Appendix K "{COMMO} Support Files"
for more details on Macro Files.

Within the Macro File window, macros from either the resident or auxiliary
Macro File may be selected for execution or edited.

IMPORTANT!  Only macros currently in memory can execute.

See Online Help for details on operations within the Macro File window.


----------  Keyboard Macros: Customizing Key Commands

This section shows you how easy it is to assign a key to perform almost any
program function or combination of functions.  See Part II (MACRO.DOC) for
more detail on the {COMMO} Macro Language.

For example, suppose you want to press Ctrl+F5 to send your name followed
by a carriage return.  You can enter a simple macro in your Macro File to
do this.



                                    -50-

Press Alt+M, then "E" to edit.  Position the cursor where you want your new
macro to be, then press Alt+I a few times to open some space.  Now type in
this macro using your name in place of "First Last":

     {:cf5} {send First Last|} {}

This simple macro has the basic components of any macro.

     {:cf5}        label (the entry point).
     {send ...}    function (the action part).
     {}            STOP (to terminate the macro).

When Ctrl+F5 is pressed, {COMMO} will search the Macro File for {:cf5} and
execute the macro function(s) that follow.  In this case the string "First
Last|" will be sent to the serial port.  Notice that the "|" converts to a
carriage return.

A keyboard macro may also be used to change a default key assignment.  For
example, Alt+K will normally bring up the Scrollback Buffer window.  If
you'd rather use the Up Arrow key for this purpose, enter this macro:

     {:upa} {scroll} {}

TIPS on creating keyboard macros:

 *   The "key-labels" used to start keyboard macros may be predefined or
     user-defined.  See Appendix H "{COMMO} Macro Key-labels" for complete
     details.

 *   Appendix D explains how to represent special characters (such as
     carriage returns) in macros.

 *   Press Alt+E while using the Internal Editor to see the complete list
     of editing keys and editing rules.


----------  Compiling Macro Files

Macro Files may be compiled to increase speed, to reduce size and to
improve security of source code.  Compiling is done from within the Macro
File window (see Online Help for the keys used to load and compile Macro
Files).  The default extension for {COMMO} compiled macros is .CCM, but you
may edit the filename as desired.

A compiled Macro File is used in exactly the same way as a source Macro
File.  The only difference is that in-window operations, such as searching
for text or starting a macro with the Selector Bar, are not available.
This means that the {macro string} style of menus is also not available.
Use the MENU function instead.



                                    -51-

TIPS on using compiled macros:

 *   The Macro Compiler version number in {COMMO} must match the version
     number in the compiled Macro File.  {COMMO} will issue a warning
     message if they are different.  To see the version number in the file,
     use the DOS "type" command or your favorite file viewer or editor.

 *   Macro function names (LOOKfor, SEND, etc.) are checked for validity at
     compile time, but all other errors are reported at run time.  Be aware
     that the location of the error cannot be shown without having the
     source macros present.


-----=====  Alt+N  Multi Number Dialing

Any number of entries may be "marked" in the Dialing Directory, then
automatically dialed in sequence until a connection is established.  Multi
Number Dialing may be initiated in one of four ways:

1)   Bring up the Dialing Directory window with Alt+D, then move the
     Selector Bar to each desired entry and press Space (repeat the
     procedure to unmark an entry).  Press Alt+N to begin dialing at the
     location of the Selector Bar.  NOTE:  You can also press "T" to tag an
     entry or "R" to untag an entry without moving the Selector Bar.

2)   Specify entries with Dialing Strings on the command line used to run
     {COMMO} (see "Command Line Options").  Specified entries will be
     marked and dialed in sequence when {COMMO} is started.

3)   Specify entries with Dialing Strings in a macro, using the MARK macro
     function.

4)   Press Alt+N from the Terminal Screen.  Dialing of marked entries will
     resume with the next system in the sequence.

See also "Alt+D  Dialing Directory" and the DIAL function in Part II
(MACRO.DOC).


-----=====  Alt+O  Send Modem Initialization String

Pressing Alt+O at any time from the Terminal Screen will cause the Modem
Initialization String to be sent to the modem (if one is defined).  This is
useful if your modem was powered off or if the modem setup was changed.


-----=====  Alt+P  Set Terminal Parameters

The Terminal Parameters determine the method of transmission of data to and
from your computer.  In {COMMO}, they are usually displayed or defined with
a string.  For example:

     {38400,8n1,1,A,0}     Speed,format,port,terminal,delay.



                                    -52-


These values are defined initially in the Setup File with the following
keyword items: bps, fmt, por, emu, icd.

{COMMO} keeps two complete sets of Terminal Parameters, both of which are
initially set to the values specified in the Setup File:

     1)   The CURRENT settings.  These are always shown on the left side of
          the Status Line.  They reflect the current state of the serial
          port and may be changed with the Alt+P key command or with the
          PARMs macro function.

     2)   The DEFAULT parameters.  Whenever a number is dialed, the current
          settings are changed to the default Terminal Parameters.
          Adjustments are then made for any overrides specified in the
          Dialing Directory.  These may be changed for the current session
          with the Alt+P key command or with the DPARms macro function.


----------  Parameter Descriptions


-----  Speed

The rate at which data travels between your computer and your modem (or
remote system if no modem is used).  It is specified as "bits per second"
or "bps."  You can set any (integer) port speed that is valid for your
serial port (or internal modem).  If you try to set an invalid speed,
{COMMO} will set the nearest valid speed.

IMPORTANT!  This parameter is not usually the same as your modem's maximum
connect speed (e.g., 28800).  Modems faster than 2400 bps are almost always
buffered and require a speed up to four times the modem's maximum connect
speed.  The maximum port speed (e.g., 115200) can be changed if your
hardware requires it.  See the "com" item  under "Alt+G  Edit Setup File"
for details.

The speed field may also be used to indicate INT 14 driver mode.  See
Appendix L for details.


-----  Data Format

This consists of three parts.  Allowable values are:

     character length:  7, 8
     parity:  none (n), even (e), odd (o), mark (m), space (s)
     stop-bits:  1, 2

Examples:

     7o2     7 bit characters, odd parity, 2 stop bits
     8m1     8 bit characters, mark parity, 1 stop bit



                                    -53-


The most common formats, "8n1" and "7e1", may be abbreviated to "8" and "7"
in Terminal Parameter strings, such as:

     {38400,8,1,A,0}


-----  Serial Port

1=COM1, 2=COM2, ... , 16=COM16.  Non-standard ports may be defined with the
"com" item in the Setup File.


-----  Terminal Emulation Type

{COMMO} supports the following terminal types:

     ANSI-BBS  (A)
          For calling most bulletin board systems.

     VT102     (V)
          For calling certain mainframes and online services.

     TTY       (T)
          For turning off almost all control functions (lets you see ANSI
          control sequences).


-----  Inter-Character Delay

This factor defines the amount of delay to insert between characters
transmitted by the SEND macro function and by ASCII Upload.  Use only when
the remote is too slow to process the data (drops characters).

Each unit is about 5 thousandths of a second (5 ms) on a 4.77 MHz XT class
machine.  Faster machines require higher values -- on a 12 MHz AT each unit
will only be about 1 ms.

For example, to delay 20 ms between characters (50 cps) use a factor of:

            4 on 4.77 MHz XT
           16 on 12 MHz AT
           27 on 20 MHz 386
           55 on 25 MHz 486
          300 on 90 MHz Pentium

The factor will also vary when you use multi-tasking software, so adjust as
necessary.  The maximum delay allowed is one second.



                                    -54-

----------  How to Set Terminal Parameters


-----  With the Alt+P Key Command

Alt+P may be used at any time to change the default Terminal Parameters or
the current settings.  Remember that current settings will be reset to the
default parameters whenever dialing begins.


-----  In the Dialing Directory

Terminal Parameters may be specified in a Dialing Directory entry to
OVERRIDE the default Terminal Parameters.  Specify only values that are
different.  For example:

     {,,3,V}
          A different serial port and terminal emulation is required for
          this call.

     {,7e1}
          Different format required.


-----  Using the Macro functions PARMs and DPARms

Use these to set Terminal Parameters during macro execution.  See Part II
(MACRO.DOC) for details.


-----=====  Alt+S   Shell to DOS

When you Shell to DOS {COMMO} remains resident in memory and you may
perform any DOS functions as you normally do.  Since {COMMO} is small in
size, most of your memory is available when you use this key command.

If you need additional memory, you can use {COMMO}'s Swap to Disk feature.
To use this feature you will need to do two things:

     1)   Be sure that a Swap File is specified in your Setup File (look
          for the "swp" item under "Paths and Files").

     2)   Enter the following simple macro in your Macro File:

               {:als} {shell-s} {}

          This macro will Shell to DOS using Swap to Disk when you press
          Alt+S (by using a different key assignment, Alt+S can still be
          used for Shell to DOS with no swap).



                                    -55-

-----=====  Alt+T  Set Toggles

This key command is used to set a number of miscellaneous toggle (yes/no)
parameters.  Some take effect while you are still in the Set Toggles
window, others when you exit the window.

Some of the toggles will be described here.  The others are detailed in
their respective sections of this document.


----------  Sound Control Toggle

This is the Master Sound Control toggle.  When sound is OFF all alarms,
sounds and beeps will be silenced.  Alarms are individually controlled with
items in the Setup File and with the "A" switch on EXECute and file
transfer macro functions.


----------  Local Echo Toggle

Local Echo (sometimes called half-duplex) is normally used when you connect
to a host that does not echo (i.e., send back) what you type.  Also,
{COMMO} will assume that the host is sending a linefeed along with each
carriage return.

Typed characters will be displayed directly to the screen.


----------  Signal Lights Toggle

Turns ON/OFF the "modem lights" display on the Status Line.  Shows the
state of the RS-232C signals, including send and receive.

This toggles the right half of the Status Line from the System Name to the
Signal Lights Display.  See "What is on the Status Line" in Online Help for
a complete description of the Status Line indicators.


-----=====  Alt+U  Utility Menu

The Utility Menu contains a selection of features supported by macros in
COMMO.MAC.  Current features include:

     Add an entry to the Dialing Directory.
     Set current terminal emulation.
     Run the host mode macro, MOSTHOST.MAC.
     Edit the host mode macro.
     Edit any external text file less than 64k in size.
     Run any macro by name (label).
     Load any auxiliary Macro File.
     Unload the current auxiliary Macro File.
     Modify certain setup items for the current session.
     Toggle the Speech Friendly Interface ON/OFF.



                                    -56-


NOTE:  The Utility Menu may not be available (or may have different
features on its menu) if an auxiliary Macro File has been loaded.


-----=====  Alt+W  Send Current Password

Each entry in the Dialing Directory can have its own Password String.
After dialing a number, the Alt+W key command will send the current
Password String to the remote system.

Usually, a carriage return must be sent following the Password String.
This can be done manually by pressing Enter after pressing Alt+W.  Or you
can send the carriage return automatically in one of following ways:

     1)   Place a "|" after the password in each of your Dialing Directory
          entries.  For example:

               {pword|}

     2)   Use the following macro which will replace the default Alt+W
          command:

               {:alw} {send %_pas|} {}

For additional details on passwords see "Alt+D  Dialing Directory."


-----=====  Alt+X  Exit from {COMMO}

This key command will cause {COMMO} to terminate, saving any support files
with outstanding changes.

You can configure {COMMO} to leave DTR high when exiting so that you can
exit and remain connected to a system (this is the default, see "Alt+G
Edit Setup File").

If {min=auto} in the Setup File, {COMMO} will not send the Modem
Initialization String if you re-enter the program while still online.  You
can also use the "/in" command line switch for this purpose.

Alt+X may also be pressed from the Dialing Directory, Macro File or
Scrollback windows for a quick exit.


-----=====  Alt+1  Capture File Options

When Capture is OPEN all information displayed to your screen will be saved
to the designated disk file.  This command allows you to:

     1)   OPEN/CLOSE the Capture File.
     2)   Change to a different file.
     3)   Change the Capture Mode.



                                    -57-


Data may be captured in one of three different modes.  The startup Capture
Mode is selected in the Setup File.

     If the mode is set to SCREEN, data will be captured exactly as it
     appears on the Terminal Screen (note that lines that wrap on the
     screen will appear as separate lines in the output file).  This mode
     greatly improves the appearance of the data captured from screens
     drawn with ANSI positioning sequences (e.g., animation).

     FILTER mode is used primarily when you need to capture lines longer
     than the width of the screen (e.g., to be printed on a wide carriage
     printer).  Characters will be translated if the receive Translate
     Table is on.  ANSI control sequences will be stripped out if ANSI-BBS
     or VT102 emulation is on.

     Use RAW mode when you want all data captured exactly as it comes from
     the serial port.  ANSI control sequences will not be stripped and
     length of lines will be preserved.  This mode can be used to capture
     ANSI animation and color to be "played back" later.

TIPS on using the Capture File:

 *   IMPORTANT!  When capturing to a floppy drive, the diskette should not
     be removed until the Capture File is closed (this also applies if the
     "disk full" message appears).  DOS may be unaware of the disk change
     and could overwrite the directory on the replacement disk.

 *   Some screens created with ANSI-BBS or VT102 emulation may appear
     distorted in the Capture File.  This is because the data was not
     received in sequence.

 *   When using SCREEN mode, data currently on the screen will not be
     written to the Capture File until the screen is cleared, the file is
     closed, etc.  This is a result of the nature of SCREEN mode and is
     quite normal.

 *   If the disk fills up while capture is open, a "disk full" message will
     appear for several seconds.  The file will be closed and processing
     will continue.  The built-in variable "_dfc" will be set to 1.

 *   The old file will be closed if a new file is opened.

Speech users can press Alt+L for a friendlier version of this command
(supported by a macro in COMMO.MAC).

See also "Alt+I  Screen Image Save."



                                    -58-

-----=====  Alt+2  Print Log Toggle

Turns the Print Log ON/OFF.  When ON all information written to your screen
will be printed to LPT1.  Handy for getting hard-copy of file lists,
messages, etc.

TIPS on using the Print Log:

 *   Some screens created with ANSI-BBS or VT102 emulation may appear
     distorted in the Print Log.  This is because the data was not received
     in sequence.

 *   Data currently on the screen will not be printed until the screen is
     cleared, the Print Log is turned OFF, etc.

 *   Flow Control should be used if your printer cannot keep up with the
     incoming data (see Appendix C).


-----=====  Alt+-  Chat Mode Toggle  (Alt minus)

Chat Mode is normally used when you wish to converse via keyboard. The
screen will be split with the upper portion showing what the remote is
sending, while the lower portion shows what you type.

The method used to send typed characters is selected in the Setup File
under the section "Video and Chat Mode."  The two possible methods are:

     1)   Each character is sent as you type it.  This method is normally
          used when you are chatting with another person who is also in
          Chat Mode.

     2)   All characters are sent at once when you press Enter (up to 240
          characters will be buffered).  Use this method when you are using
          a teleconferencing system or "CB Simulator."

The number of lines in the upper and lower portions of the screen (the
"line split") may also be set in the "Video and Chat Mode" section.

TIPS on using Chat Mode:

 *   Alt+- (Alt minus) is used to enter AND exit Chat Mode.

 *   All {COMMO} functions are available in Chat Mode except Doorway Mode.


-----=====  Alt+=  Doorway Mode Toggle

Definition: "Extended" keys are function keys, Alt keys, cursor keys, etc.
In other words, keys that do not generate ASCII characters.

In Doorway Mode all extended keys will send their key codes to the remote
(instead of activating {COMMO} functions).  Thus Doorway Mode can be used



                                    -59-

to operate most application software on the remote system when used with a
host program such as Marshall Dudley's DOORWAY.  In addition, some BBS
full-screen editors use Doorway Mode.

TIPS on using Doorway Mode:

 *   IMPORTANT!  {COMMO} supports host printer redirection.  This means
     that Doorway may send data through the modem to be printed on LPT1,
     LPT2 or LPT3.  Be sure the printers are ready before starting or your
     system may hang.

 *   Alt+= is the default key to toggle Doorway Mode ON/OFF, but the "dmk"
     item in the Setup File may be used to define any key.   The defined
     key is necessarily reserved for exiting Doorway Mode and thus cannot
     be sent to the remote.  Be sure to configure remote applications
     accordingly.

 *   A macro must be present in the Macro File to toggle Doorway Mode.  The
     supplied macro is:

          {:al=} {doorway} {}         Toggle Doorway Mode

     If you redefine the key with "dmk", don't forget to change the key-
     label on the macro.

 *   Terminal-type should be set to ANSI-BBS.  It's a good idea to enter
     Doorway Mode before starting DOORWAY on the host computer (the host
     may send commands to initialize the terminal).

 *   When used with DOORWAY 2.22 or later, the Doorway Mode macro will
     execute automatically when the DOORWAY program (on the host system)
     starts up and when it exits back to DOS -- no keypress is necessary.

 *   The display should be set to the number of lines expected by the host
     program.  Usually this is 25 lines of text.  If your display is not in
     the proper mode, the results will be unpredictable.

 *   The Status Line is normally suppressed in Doorway Mode, but may be
     turned on by using the "S" switch in the Doorway macro:

          {:al=} {doorway-s} {}

     The "s" switch is ignored when exiting Doorway Mode and the Status
     Line will be restored to its previous state.  Remember that when the
     Status Line is on, there is one less usable line on the Terminal
     Screen.

 *   If it is necessary to clear the screen or to reset the terminal
     emulation mode parameters when starting Doorway Mode, modify the
     Doorway macro.  For example:

          {:al=} {clear} {parms ,,,a} {doorway} {}



                                    -60-

     This macro will execute when entering or exiting Doorway Mode.

 *   If Software Flow Control is enabled, the ASCII character values 17 and
     19 (XON and XOFF) will not display.  If these characters are needed,
     Software Flow Control should be turned off.


-----=====  F1  How to Use Online Help

A summary of {COMMO}'s operations is available by pressing F1.  The Online
Help support file, COMMO.HLP, must be in the {COMMO} home directory or you
will get an error message.  This message will also be issued if there is
not enough memory to load the Online Help file.

Note that the Help file is retained in memory until {COMMO} requires memory
for some other program function.  It will automatically be re-read when
necessary.

Press "H" in the Help window for a description of all keys available in the
window.  Keys for each of {COMMO}'s command windows are detailed in the
respective help sections.


----------  Modifying the Help File

When you are familiar with {COMMO} you may wish to reduce the size of the
Help File.  Feel free to edit this file -- you can even set up your own
menu.

The search keys are in the bars separating the topics.  The character
following the "T" in the middle of the bar may be changed to create your
own key.  Keep in mind that the context-related Help uses topic characters
that cannot be changed.

The HELP macro function enables you to assign a key to go directly to any
topic in Online Help.  For example:

          {:cf6} {help J} {}

will go to topic "TJ" when Ctrl+F6 is pressed.  Use any single character as
the key (do not include the "T").

If you change the Help File, remember to keep a backup copy of the
original.


-----=====  PgUp/PgDn  Uploading/Downloading

When you press PgUp or PgDn you will be presented with a menu of file
transfer protocols.  Protocols provide the ability to transfer (send and
receive) any type of data using error detection and correction techniques.



                                    -61-

The PgUp and PgDn menus are implemented using {COMMO}'s powerful Macro
Language which enables you to execute internal and external protocols
easily and seamlessly.

The file transfer menus allow you to type in filenames for uploading
(sending), or you may choose them from the File Selector window.  Only one
file should be selected when using the Xmodem, Kermit, BPlus or ASCII
Upload protocols (Kermit will accept wildcards when typing the filename).

You may alter these macros to suit your individual needs.


----------  Internal Protocols

{COMMO} provides an extremely fast and efficient version of the Zmodem
protocol, plus a number of variations on the Xmodem and Ymodem protocols.
These afford you varying degrees of convenience, speed and security.

ZMODEM is the preferred protocol on most host systems.  It features
automatic startup of downloads, multi-file transfers and automatic naming
and dating of received files.  Zmodem also affords greater data security
through its 32 bit cyclic redundancy check and its ability to resume
transfers that were interrupted (e.g., by loss of carrier).

The "zr_mode" variable item in COMMO.SET controls the disposition of like-
named files when downloading.  Four options are available when the incoming
filename matches a filename in the download directory (choose only one):

     Skip (S) -- The file will be skipped (not downloaded).

     Resume (R) -- The file will be resumed (appended to) if the file in
     the download directory is smaller than the incoming file.  Otherwise,
     the transfer will be considered complete.

     reName (N) -- The incoming file will be renamed by changing the last
     character of "filename.ext" to a letter from A through Z.

     Overwrite (O) -- The existing file will be deleted and the incoming
     file will replace it.

YMODEM is also capable of multi-file transfers and automatic naming/dating
of incoming files.  Note that the standard macros are set to cancel a
download when a like-named file is received.  {COMMO}'s Ymodem supports
renaming and overwriting (as in Zmodem), but you must modify the macros in
COMMO.MAC to do this (there is no menu support).

XMODEM is the most basic protocol.  A filename must be supplied at both
ends of the transfer (they need not be the same).

There are a number of variations which apply to both Xmodem and Ymodem.
Their use depends upon what is offered by the remote system and whether or
not you have an error-correcting modem.



                                    -62-

     CRC
          This is a reliable block-check method and should be used whenever
          possible.

     Csum
          This block-check method is not as reliable and should not be used
          unless there is no other option.

     1k byte block size
          The larger block size is much more efficient and is preferred
          (unless noisy lines are causing a lot of block retransmissions).

     128 byte block size
          The small block size should be used only when there is no other
          option or on noisy lines.

     G
          The "G" method eliminates waiting for the receiver's response to
          each block and is therefore much faster.  It still performs error
          checking, but not error recovery.  Therefore it should only be
          used with an error-correcting modem or on a direct connection
          between computers.

          When an error is encountered, the transfer will be cancelled.
          Partial files will be kept.  The "G" method always uses CRC and
          1k blocks.

IMPORTANT!  The macros that support the internal protocols are set up for
the most common situations.  Many variations are possible by modifying
these macros.  Please refer to descriptions of the functions RZMOdem,
RYMOdem, RXMOdem, SZMOdem, SYMOdem and SXMOdem in Part II (MACRO.DOC) for
details.


-----  CompuServe BPlus

BPlus is a file transfer protocol for CompuServe users which offers better
network throughput than Xmodem or Ymodem.  BPlus uses the supplied program
module BPLUS1.POV, which should be located in your {COMMO} home directory.

When you see the protocol selection menu on CompuServe, select "B", "B+" or
"QB".  Macros are provided in COMMO.MAC to upload and download with BPlus.

To download a file:

     1) When you get the "File name:" prompt, enter the filename as it
     appears on CompuServe.  Skip this step when downloading E-mail.

     2) When you get the "File name for your computer:" prompt, enter the
     name the file should have on your computer (does not have to be the
     same as the filename on CompuServe).



                                    -63-

     3) Press PgDn and "B".

To upload a file:

     1) When you get the "File name:" prompt, enter the name as you want it
     to appear in the forum library.  This name must be CompuServe
     compatible: six characters maximum plus a three character extension.
     Skip this step when uploading E-mail.

     2) When you get the "Filename for your computer:" prompt, don't type
     anything.  Press PgUp and "B" and enter the filename or use the File
     Selector.  {COMMO} will send the filename for you and then send the
     file.


----------  ASCII Upload/Download

Text files may be sent and received using the ASCII protocol.  This method
performs no error checking or error correction and should only be used when
other protocols are not available.

It might be used, for example, to upload a prepared message to a host that
was waiting for you to type the message.  Or it could be used to receive a
bulletin or other information that you would normally read while on line.

To upload a text file, use the Alt+A key command (see "Alt+A  ASCII Upload"
for information about settings).  You can also use the Select window by
pressing PgUp and selecting "A" for ASCII Upload.

To download text information to a file, use {COMMO}'s Capture File feature.
Use the Alt+1 (or Alt+L) key command to set the filename and Capture Mode.
Open the Capture File just prior to receiving the information.  Then close
it after all data has been received.  Note that the file may require some
editing.  See "Alt+1  Capture File Options."


----------  External Protocols

The Macro File is pre-configured with macros that execute various external
protocol programs.  You may add macros for any other protocol programs that
you need.  See Part II (MACRO.DOC) for details on writing macros.

External protocol programs can be obtained from BBS's and other sources.
To install them, just place the executable files (e.g., HSLINK.EXE,
DSZ.COM) in the directory which is specified in the "set protodir" Setup
File item.  This item is in the "Paths and Files" section of COMMO.SET.
You may use your {COMMO} home directory, if desired.

IMPORTANT!  All external protocol programs must be in the "protodir"
directory.

Each of the protocol programs has additional features that may be useful to
you.  Refer to the program's documentation for more information.



                                    -64-



-----  Using HS/Link

HS/Link is a Shareware program that offers very fast file transfers.  The
HS/Link protocol has all of the features of Zmodem.  In addition, it has
bi-directional capability for uploading and downloading simultaneously with
a full-duplex modem (make sure the remote system allows this feature before
attempting it).

When you select a download with HS/Link (or if it is started automatically
with Auto Receive), you will be asked if you have "Any files to upload" as
well.  Answer "no" (or just press Enter) for download only.

The executable file to install is HSLINK.EXE.


-----  Using Kermit

Kermit is a protocol that is often the only choice on institutional host
systems.  To use Kermit, you must obtain Columbia University's MSKERMIT 3.0
or later.  This program is free for personal use and is almost universally
available on BBS's and commercial services.

The Kermit macros are set up to transfer only one file at a time (no batch
mode), but wildcards may be used when typing in the filename.

The executable file to install is KERMIT.EXE.  In version 3.14 and later
there is a smaller executable called KERLITE.EXE that is designed to be
used as an external protocol driver (rename it to KERMIT.EXE).


-----  External Zmodem

Some users may prefer to use an external Zmodem driver.  This can be done
easily by entering replacement macros for "z_recv" and "z_send".  If you
add these at the top of COMMO.MAC, you won't have to change the existing
macro structure (the new macros will override the old).

Example macros for Omen Technology programs and Texas Zmodem are shown in
SAMPLES.MAC.


-----=====  {COMMO} Auto Receive

This feature will automatically start a macro when a specified string is
received from the serial port and may be used for starting downloads.

Up to 16 strings and respective macro labels may be defined in the
"Terminal and Modem" section of the Setup File.  These are preconfigured
for the Zmodem and HS/Link protocol "signature" strings, but you may change
them or add new ones as desired.



                                    -65-

As an example, one of the Auto Receive strings in the Setup File is:

  {aut=pzbr,^XB00}    Auto Receive, Zmodem DL

This means that when the string "^XB00" is received, the macro at label
"pzbr" will be started.  This string is the Zmodem "signature" string and
is sent repeatedly by the sender until the receiver is ready to receive
files.

In the Macro File you will find the corresponding macro:

  Zmodem   {:pzbr} ... {call z_recv} {}

{COMMO} will execute the macro as soon as the signature string is received
(be patient, a BBS may take several seconds to load and execute its own
protocol program).

IMPORTANT!  If you have not properly installed an external protocol
program, the message "Bad command or file name" will be periodically
displayed by DOS.  If this happens type Ctrl+X repeatedly until the sender
cancels the transfer.

TIPS on using Auto Receive:

 *   If the macro called by Auto Receive EXECutes a DOS command, you may
     want to use EXECute Preview Mode for preliminary testing.  This will
     allow you to view the command before execution and to see the results
     afterwards.  Preview Mode may be toggled on/off using the Alt+T key
     command.

 *   Auto Receive will not trigger on characters that are displayed to the
     screen while a macro is running.  If you need to download within a
     macro, you should do a LOOKfor to wait for the signature string, then
     CALL the download macro.

 *   Using short strings, such as "^E" for CIS B protocol may result in
     unexpected triggering of the macro.  This is because other systems may
     send the same string for a different purpose (to display a "club"
     symbol, for example).  Thus it may be necessary to disable a string at
     times or to discontinue its use.

 *   A string may be disabled by removing the corresponding macro label in
     the Macro File.  This may degrade performance since the Macro File
     must be scanned each time a "hit" occurs.  The best way is to remove
     the Setup File item.

 *   Auto Receive can be set up for protocols that do not send signature
     strings, such as Xmodem, Ymodem, Ymodem-G, etc.  Use the prompt that
     the BBS sends just prior to the file transfer.  For example, "Start
     your Ymodem-G now."  Note that different systems may use different
     prompts.



                                    -66-

 *   The AUTO macro function may be used to define new strings after
     program startup.  See Part II (MACRO.DOC) for details.

See also "TIPS on creating LOOKfor strings" in Part II (MACRO.DOC) under
LOOKfor.



                                    -67-

==========  Appendix A:  Setting Up Your Modem

Please be aware that there are many different modems in use and that it is
important that you configure your modem to work correctly with {COMMO}.  A
few tips will be given here, but they are not intended as a substitute for
the detailed installation instructions in your modem manual!

When {COMMO} is started, a command string called the Modem Initialization
String will be sent to the modem.  You must make certain that you have the
correct string in your Setup File.  This string will perform part or all of
the modem setup depending on the type of modem.

If your modem is external to your computer, be sure you have followed the
installation instructions carefully and that the cable is connected to the
computer's serial port.

Also check the default Terminal Parameters in the Setup File.  Make sure
the serial port number is correct.


-----=====  28800, 14400, 9600, 2400 bps Modems

IMPORTANT!  Modern modems require that the serial port speed be set higher
(up to four times higher!) than the modem's fastest line speed.  For
example, a 14400 bps modem would be used with the port speed set at 19200,
38400 or 57600.  The highest speed you can use is dependent on the hardware
and software in your computer system.  Set the speed in COMMO.SET with the
"bps" item.

Many modems have switches (often called "DIP "switches) which must be set
to provide the proper interaction with your computer and with {COMMO}.
Consult your modem manual concerning these switches and pay particular
attention to the following:

     1)   Enable command recognition.  Allows the modem to recognize
          commands (dial, set registers, etc.).  Must be in the "enable"
          position or modem will be unusable.

     2)   Send result codes in English.  This switch should be set so that
          the modem will send verbal responses to commands instead of
          numbers.  There is usually a command to control this as well
          (e.g., "V1").

     3)   Respond to DTR (data terminal ready).  This should NOT be in the
          "ignore" or "override" position.  This switch allows the computer
          to signal the modem to hang up.

     4)   Respond to Carrier Detect or "allow true carrier."  This should
          NOT be set to the "always on" or "override" position.

Modems also have software commands which can be used in place of (or in
addition to) the switches.  These commands may be given every time you



                                    -68-

start {COMMO} or they may be permanently remembered by modems which have
"non-volatile" memory (NVRAM).

It will be assumed here that the commands are given every time you start
{COMMO}.  If you wish to place the settings in NVRAM, consult your modem
manual for instructions (most modems use the "&W" command to do this).

Here is an example Modem Initialization String for most higher speed
modems:

     {~~AT S0=0 S7=180 E1 Q0 V1 X4 &C1 &D2 |~~}

The "X" command may vary somewhat from modem to modem.  It determines which
responses the modem will generate during dialing (CONNECT, BUSY, etc.).  It
may also activate an additional modem feature, such as automatic redialing,
which could interfere with {COMMO}'s own redialing procedure.

Your modem manual gives a description for each level of the "X" command:
X0, X1, X2, ... , etc.  Generally you want to use the highest level that
does not activate undesirable features (usually "X4").  The BUSY response
should be provided if possible.

IMPORTANT!  Many modems that operate at 2400 bps and above require
additional commands to control features such as error correction and data
compression.  The factory settings are usually correct, but be aware that
you may need to insert additional commands into the above string.

If you need to change the Modem Initialization String, edit the Setup File
with the Alt+G key command, then restart the program to send the string to
the modem.


-----=====  1200 bps Modems

Here is an example Modem Initialization String which will set up a 1200 bps
modem:

     {~~AT S0=0 S7=180 E1 Q0 V1 X1 |~~}

The information above concerning DIP switches and the "X" command usually
applies to 1200 or 300 bps modems as well.


-----=====  Answering a call from another computer

The following information assumes that you are not using the MOSTHOST or
other {COMMO} host mode macro.  If you use a host macro, follow the
instructions for installing and operating the host.

There are two easy ways to use {COMMO} to answer when a friend or associate
calls you by computer.  For best results, make sure you are in Chat Mode.
Press Alt+- (Alt minus) to enter/exit Chat Mode.



                                    -69-

1)   While in Chat Mode or in the Terminal Screen, wait for the phone to
     ring, then type "ATA<cr>" (upper case is not necessary with many
     modems).  Your modem should answer immediately (go off hook) and begin
     handshaking with the remote modem.

     When you see the CONNECT message you are ready to communicate.  At
     this point you can type, send data with macro keys, send a text file
     with ASCII Upload or send any file with an internal or external
     protocol.

     You can use a macro key to send the answer command to the modem.  For
     example, to send it by pressing F5, place the following macro in your
     Macro File:

          {:nf5} {send ATA|} {}    Answer the phone!

     When the telephone rings, press F5.

2)   The other method involves setting your modem into Auto Answer Mode.
     This method is useful in some situations, but will cause the modem to
     answer whenever the phone rings.  This can be undesirable if you get a
     voice call.

     To set Auto Answer just type "ATS0=1<cr>" (or make "S0=1" part of your
     Modem Initialization String).  This will tell the modem to answer on
     ring "1" (adjust to as many rings as desired).  To turn off Auto
     Answer type "ATS0=0<cr>".  These may also be sent with macro keys.


-----=====  Connecting two computers (null modem cable)

{COMMO} may be used on a "direct connection" between two computers or
between a computer and another serial device.  Connect the two serial ports
with a "null modem" cable.  Then start the program on each computer, having
selected the appropriate default Terminal Parameters in the Setup File(s).

Dialing conditions may be simulated by using a null {} phone number and
"dialing" the entry.  This allows directory entry variables to be set and
also activates features such as the Usage Log and the elapsed timer on the
Status Line.  If a Linked Macro is specified, it will be started.

The null modem cable should be designed so that the transmit line on each
end connects to the receive line on the other end.  No other signals are
needed, but none of the RS-232C signals should be left "floating."  They
should be tied high or low (or grounded).



                                    -70-

==========  Appendix B   {COMMO} and Multi-Tasking

Special care has been taken to ensure that {COMMO} will operate efficiently
when running under Windows, OS/2 and DESQview.  See below for notes on
specific operating systems.

TIPS on using {COMMO} in multi-tasking systems:

 *   Use of buffered UART chips (or the functional equivalent) is usually
     necessary to ensure smooth, error-free operation.  These are often
     designated as 16550A, 16C550, 16C650, etc.  8250 and 16450 chips are
     not buffered.

 *   Check all settings for the window in which {COMMO} will be running.
     Be sure this window is configured to allow running in background (do
     NOT suspend background processing).  If {COMMO} drops characters, gets
     CRC errors or stalls when in background, try reducing the "Idle
     Sensitivity" setting, if applicable.

 *   Generally, foreground and background "time slices" should be equal.
     Try reducing the value if characters are dropped when data is being
     received at high speeds.

 *   If you switch to another task, do not attempt to access any files
     which may be in use in the {COMMO} window.  Examples are the Capture
     File, the Screen Image File and files that may be currently involved
     in file transfers (upload or download).  You may freely access these
     files in the Shell to DOS or using a macro (within the same window).


-----=====  OS/2 Note

Users have reported improved performance under OS/2 with Ray Gwinn's
SIO/VSIO replacement serial port drivers.  These are available on
CompuServe (go os2user, lib 3), Exec-PC (OS/2 collection) and many other
BBS systems.  Look for SIOnnn.ZIP (shareware).



                                    -71-

==========  Appendix C   Flow Control

Flow Control is a signalling system used by communications devices to
prevent data from being transmitted faster than it can be processed by the
receiving system.  This is especially important when data is transferred at
high speeds.

Flow Control is initialized in the Setup File and is used by {COMMO} for
both sending and receiving.  You may specify Hardware Flow Control,
Software Flow Control or both.

Hardware Flow Control uses the RTS/CTS lines in your RS-232C (serial port)
cable to signal pause/resume without interfering with the data.  It is used
when you are connected to a device which also recognizes RTS/CTS Flow
Control (such as a high-speed modem or another computer connected with an
appropriate null modem cable).  A CTS-off (send) pause will not be released
automatically.

Software Flow Control uses a control character called XOFF (or ^S) to
signal the remote to pause.  XON (^Q) is the signal to "resume
transmission."  This is normally used only for ASCII data, since these
characters may appear randomly within binary data.  An XOFF pause will
automatically be released in 20 seconds if no XON is received.  It will
also be released if you type a character in the Terminal Screen.

TIPS on using Flow Control:

 *   Hardware Flow Control problems can generally be avoided by using the
     {hfc=auto} option in your Setup File.

 *   If your modem does not default to the proper setting, it may need to
     be initialized to utilize flow control (consult the modem manual for
     details).

 *   Since Software Flow Control uses the XOFF (ASCII 19) and XON (ASCII
     17) characters, these will not display on the screen.  If it is
     necessary to display them, Software Flow Control must be turned off.

 *   It is especially important to use Flow Control when the Print Log is
     on, since data is usually received faster than it can be printed.  If
     you type a character to the remote during a flow control pause, the
     remote may begin sending again (some systems resume on any character,
     not just XON).  You may have to turn off the Print Log if this
     happens.



                                    -72-

==========  Appendix D   ASCII Character Representation

Sometimes it is necessary to enter control characters and other special
characters in the {COMMO} support files or as input to {COMMO} key
commands.  For example, a carriage return (typed with the Enter key) is
used to terminate your typed input.  Therefore a carriage return must be
represented by some other character (or characters) in order to be used as
data.

The process of converting represented characters to actual characters is
done in many places in {COMMO}:

     1)   Strings sent to the modem.  These include the Modem
          Initialization String, dialing prefixes and suffixes, telephone
          numbers, the Password String and the Pacing Character in ASCII
          Upload.  Also converted are strings sent by the macro functions
          SEND, SETGet (terminator response), SETLook ("no data" response),
          VTCUr and VTPAd.

     2)   Strings used in other macro functions.  These include LOOKfor,
          GOLOok, CALOok, SSLOok, EXECute (see below) and DISPlay.

All control characters may be represented using the (^) caret symbol (it is
the shift character above the top row "6").  If you need to send a caret,
use two carets (^^).

For convenience, two "normal" characters have special meanings in certain
contexts:

     The vertical bar (|) may be used to represent a carriage return.  If
     you need a vertical bar, use (^|).  In the EXECute function the
     vertical bar is NOT converted (it is used by DOS as the "pipe"
     symbol).

     The tilde (~) forces a one-half second delay when it is encountered in
     a string that is being sent to the modem.  If you need to send a
     tilde, use (^~).  Note that the tilde is used as a delay ONLY in
     strings that are sent to the modem.  In other strings the tilde is
     used as a tilde.

Remember also that the percent sign (%) is used to introduce string
variable names in macro function arguments, telephone numbers, etc.  In
these situations, you must use two percent signs (%%) where an actual
percent sign is required.

Finally, curly braces { } are very special characters and may not be used
as data in the support files.  They are represented as follows, using
parentheses:

     Left curly brace       ^(
     Right curly brace      ^)



                                    -73-

Here is a list of some of the most common control characters and how to
represent them.  Upper or lower case may be used.

     Carriage return        ^M or |
     Linefeed               ^J
     Tab                    ^I
     Formfeed               ^L
     Escape                 ^[
     Bell                   ^G
     XOFF                   ^S
     XON                    ^Q
     End of file            ^Z

Here is a table of all ASCII control characters.  Values are decimal:

     0  ... ^@      8  ... ^H      16 ... ^P      24 ... ^X
     1  ... ^A      9  ... ^I      17 ... ^Q      25 ... ^Y
     2  ... ^B      10 ... ^J      18 ... ^R      26 ... ^Z
     3  ... ^C      11 ... ^K      19 ... ^S      27 ... ^[
     4  ... ^D      12 ... ^L      20 ... ^T      28 ... ^\
     5  ... ^E      13 ... ^M      21 ... ^U      29 ... ^]
     6  ... ^F      14 ... ^N      22 ... ^V
     7  ... ^G      15 ... ^O      23 ... ^W

Most ASCII characters (including control characters below 32 and those in
the extended graphic character set, 128 to 255), may also be typed using
the ALT-NUMERIC-KEYPAD method as follows:

     1.   Hold down the Alt key (and keep it down).
     2.   Enter the ASCII code in decimal using the numeric keypad keys (1,
          2 or 3 digits are ok).
     3.   Release the Alt key.

IMPORTANT!  ASCII 0, 10 and 13 may only be represented with the caret.



                                    -74-

==========  Appendix E   Terminal Emulation

Terminal Emulation Type is indicated on the Status Line (in the Terminal
Parameters string).  Available types are:

     A    ANSI-BBS
               Used on bulletin boards and other systems.

     V    VT102 (VT100 compatible)
               Used on Internet providers and mainframes.

     T    TTY
               Supports only the basic control characters.

The Terminal Emulation Type (as defined by the default Terminal Parameters)
will be set whenever a system is dialed.  It may be overridden for the
current call by using the Parms field in the Dialing Directory entry.

IMPORTANT!  The Terminal Emulation Type affects only received data (as
displayed to the screen).  The proper macros must be installed to obtain
the correct keyboard simulation.  The following sections describe how to do
this.


-----=====  ANSI-BBS Keyboard Support

The sample Macro File, COMMO.MAC, includes macros to use the PC keypad keys
(arrow keys, PgUp, PgDn, etc.) with most BBS full-screen editors.  These
keys will also work with many other host applications.


-----=====  VT102 Keyboard Simulation

The VT102 keyboard simulation macro file, VT102.MAC, works best with the
enhanced 101-key keyboard (turn on Numlock to use digits 0-9 and the
period).

IMPORTANT!  The PgUp and PgDn keys are part of VT102 emulation.  To bring
up the upload or download protocol menus while VT102.MAC is loaded, press
Alt+Z.

VT102.MAC will load automatically if "vt102" is specified as the Linked
Macro in a Dialing Directory entry.  For example:

  University UNIX  {555-1234} {password} {vt102} {}

NOTE:  VT102 is a superset of VT100.

The following special VT102 keyboard functions are supported.  The first
column is the PC key; the second column is the corresponding VT102
function:

          F1 ... F4              PF1 ... PF4



                                    -75-

          Arrows                 Four cursor keys
          Home                   Home cursor
          Ctrl+Home              Insert line
          PgUp                   Page up
          Ctrl+PgUp              Delete line
          PgDn                   Page down
          Ctrl+PgDn              Clear screen
          End                    End of line
          Ins                    Insert mode
          Del                    DEL
          Ctrl+Backspace         Ctrl backspace (DEL)
          Keypad *               Keypad ,
          Keypad -               Keypad -
          Keypad +               Keypad Enter

VT102 numeric keypad keys are auto-switched by the host system between
numeric mode and application mode.  The four cursor keys are auto-switched
between cursor mode and application mode.

This file may be modified to create any keyboard support you desire (see
description of VTCUr and VTPAd functions in the section "{COMMO} Macro
Functions."


-----=====  VT220 Keyboard Simulation

VT220 keyboard simulation uses the file VT220.MAC.  All of the statements
in the previous section apply (substitute the term VT220 for VT102).

Note that {COMMO} does NOT support the enhanced display functions of the
VT220 terminal (it supports VT102).  Therefore the results may not be
satisfactory in some cases.

The following special VT220 keyboard functions are supported:

          F1 ... F4              PF1 ... PF4
          F5                     Break
          F6 ... F12             F6 ... F12
          Alt+F1 ... Alt+F4      F11 ... F14
          Alt+F5                 Help
          Alt+F6                 Do
          Alt+F7 ... Alt+F10     F17 ... F20

          Arrows                 Four cursor keys
          Home                   Find
          Ins                    Insert here
          Del                    Remove
          End                    Select
          PgUp                   Prev screen
          PgDn                   Next screen

          Keypad *               Keypad ,
          Keypad -               Keypad -



                                    -76-

          Keypad +               Keypad Enter
          Backspace              DEL


-----=====  Printer Support

{COMMO} supports the ANSI/VT102 printer functions, controlled by the remote
system:

     The "Printer ON/OFF" function will turn {COMMO}'s Print Log ON/OFF.

     The "Dedicated Printing" function will send all input from the serial
     port directly to the printer.  This allows for "transparent"
     transmission of printer data, including control codes.

     The "Print Screen" function will print the entire current screen.

The printer should be on and ready to print when these functions are used
or the system may hang.  When "Dedicated Printing" is active no characters
will be displayed on the screen.

TIPS on using terminal emulation:

 *   Whenever the emulation type is changed, {COMMO} will reset all mode
     parameters.  It is therefore important that the change be made BEFORE
     (or at the time of) connecting with a new host, since the host may
     transmit mode settings.

 *   If some screens do not look right when VT102 emulation is used, you
     may need to turn LINEWRAP off (it defaults to on).

     Linewrap may be turned on/off locally using the DISPlay macro
     function.  Place one of the following in your login macro (or assign
     one of them to a key and execute it manually):

          {display ,,,^[[?7h}      linewrap ON
          {display ,,,^[[?7l}      linewrap OFF

 *   {COMMO} will support auto-switching to 132 column mode, but you must
     define the hardware video mode that causes your video adapter to
     switch to 25x132 (rows, columns).  See the item "avm" under "Alt+G
     Edit Setup File" for details.  Note that your video adapter should be
     in 25x80 when you start {COMMO}.

 *   If colors do not always look right, it may be necessary to set the
     Terminal Screen colors in the Setup File to "07".  See the note under
     "Colors" in the section "Alt+G  Edit Setup File."



                                    -77-

==========  Appendix F   Usage Log Format

Example of a connect entry:

  {On}   06/10/96  18:11     9600 bps    Channel 1

     {On}
          A connection was made.
     06/10/96
          Date of connect.
     18:11
          Time of connect.
     9600 bps
          Speed of connect as reported by the "success response string."
     Channel 1
          Name of system called.


Example of a disconnect entry:

  {Off}  06/10/96  18:12     2:17        1 617 354 3230

     {Off}
          A call was terminated.
     06/10/96
          Date of termination.
     18:13
          Time of termination.
     2:17
          Duration of call in minutes:seconds.
     1 617 354 3230
          Telephone number of called system.  Includes override prefix
          and/or suffix, if present.


Example of a file transfer entry:

  {RZ} 0  c:\ul\nlbbs.qwk  18988  1608 cps  0 errors

     {RZ}
          File was received with Zmodem.
     0
          0 means the file was transferred (or resumed) successfully.  1
          means the file was not completed.



                                    -78-

     c:\ul\nlbbs.qwk
          Path\filename of file.
     18988
          Bytes transferred (may not be equal to the size of the file if
          the transfer was incomplete or if the Zmodem resume feature was
          used).
     1608 cps
          Rate at which data was transferred in characters per second.  The
          clock is not started until initial protocol handshaking has been
          completed.  "** cps" indicates transfer time was too short or
          there was an error in the computation.
     0 errors
          Total number of errors (corrected if transfer was successful).

NOTE:  You may configure an external protocol program to make log entries
to your {COMMO} Usage Log file.  The format of these entries is explained
in the documentation for the protocol program.



                                    -79-

==========  Appendix G   Error Message Explanations

If you get an error message that you don't understand, check below for
additional information.

__________________________________

A macro is running.  Terminate it?
__________________________________

     This message comes from a macro that is using the SETEsc function.  It
     is used as a warning to prevent accidental termination of macros.
     Answer "No" to continue processing, "Yes" to stop.

_______________________________

Cannot locate command processor
_______________________________

     This is an unusual condition.  Type "SET" at the DOS prompt and be
     sure there is a "COMSPEC=" in the list.  If there is, make sure that
     COMMAND.COM is in the path specified.

____________________________________

Capture File Closed, DISK IS FULL!
Information not saved, DISK IS FULL!
____________________________________

     The Capture File and Screen Image File should be edited regularly to
     ensure that they are not occupying too much disk space.

_____________________

Dial command too long
_____________________

     The dial command is limited to 128 characters.

________________________________

Edit space full!  See Appendix K
________________________________

     When any file that can be edited with {COMMO}'s Internal Editor is
     loaded, expansion space is allocated.  The amount of expansion space
     is determined by the "esf" item in the Setup File (default is 8k).  If
     this space fills up while editing, the warning will appear.

     Exiting {COMMO} and restarting, or using the Swap to Disk, will
     restore the full expansion space.  The total size of a file plus
     expansion cannot exceed 64k bytes.



                                    -80-

________________

File is not text
________________

     {COMMO} support files and other files edited with the Internal Editor
     must be proper ASCII text files.  They should have a CR/LF at the end
     of each line and should not contain the null character (ASCII 0).

___________________________

Hardware flow control pause
___________________________

     Hardware Flow Control (RTS/CTS handshaking) is in effect and the
     remote system (or your modem) has requested a pause.  Try waiting a
     few seconds for the pause to clear.  If that fails, try setting
     {hfc=auto} in your Setup File.  Be sure to restart {COMMO} after
     making this change.

__________________________

Macro location not in file
__________________________

     An attempt has been made to RETUrn to a Macro File that has been
     modified.  Avoid editing Macro Files that are in use.

________________________________

Not enough memory
Not enough memory for Scrollback
________________________________

     These messages may occur at program startup.  Check the following:

     1)   {COMMO} cannot allocate its internal buffers.  You must make more
          memory available.

     2)   {COMMO} cannot load the Dialing Directory and/or Macro File.  Try
          reducing the size of either of these files.  Removing comments
          may help.  Or make more memory available.

     3)   {COMMO} cannot allocate the Scrollback Buffer.  Reduce its size
          or make more memory available.



                                    -81-

_______________________

Not enough memory
Program file not found
Unable to execute shell
_______________________

     A problem was encountered during Shell to DOS or EXECute:

     1)   There may not be enough memory to execute the command processor
          or external program you have specified.

     2)   The program file you specified in an EXECute function using the
          "D" switch cannot be located.  Make sure you specify the full
          path and filename.

     3)   Some other system error condition may exist.  Make sure that
          COMMAND.COM is still available in the "COMSPEC=" path.

_________________________

Not enough variable space
_________________________

     {COMMO} has run out of Variable Space.  Macros should delete (set to
     null) variables that are no longer in use.  You can allocate more
     Variable Space with the "vsp" item in the Setup File or with the "/v"
     command line switch.

____________________________

Swap Failure, exiting to DOS
____________________________

     This message will appear if {COMMO} cannot be fully restored when
     returning from a Swap to Disk.  This can result from one of these
     conditions:

          1)   Unable to read the Swap File (file not found or file is
               unreadable).

          2)   Unable to allocate the necessary memory (a TSR may have been
               loaded above {COMMO}'s kernel).



                                    -82-

________________________

Unable to open file
Unable to open Help File
File not found
Path not found
Too many files
________________________

     Check the following:

     1)   Your "SET COMMO=" command in your AUTOEXEC.BAT file.  It may be
          specifying the wrong directory.
     2)   That the path exists where the file should be.
     3)   That the file itself exists (this won't be the problem if the
          file is being created).
     4)   Too many files may be open.  You may need to increase your FILES=
          parameter in CONFIG.SYS.
     5)   The Online Help File must be less than 64K bytes in size.
     6)   You cannot use an open Capture File for any other purpose.

____________________________________________

WARNING: another copy of {COMMO} is running!
____________________________________________

     You probably Shelled to DOS and started another copy of {COMMO}.  This
     warning is provided to prevent overwriting of support files that have
     changed.

     If it is necessary to Shell to DOS and run {COMMO} again, use the Swap
     to Disk feature which will preserve any changes to your Dialing
     Directory, etc.  This detection does not work between windows in a
     multitasking environment (Windows, DESQview, etc.).



                                    -83-

==========  Appendix H   {COMMO} Macro Key-labels

Key-labels are special macro labels that let you start a macro by pressing
the associated key (they can also be the targets of GOTO, CALL, etc.).
They fall into two general categories: predefined and user-defined.


----------  Table of PREDEFINED Key-labels

     Key Name     Key-label     Key Name     Key-label
     ________     _________     ________     _________

     F1            nf1   ...    F10           nf0
     F11           nfa          F12           nfb

     Ctrl+F1       cf1   ...    Ctrl+F10      cf0
     Ctrl+F11      cfa          Ctrl+F12      cfb

     Shift+F1      sf1   ...    Shift+F10     sf0
     Shift+F11     sfa          Shift+F12     sfb

     Alt+F1        af1   ...    Alt+F10       af0
     Alt+F11       afa          Alt+F12       afb

     Alt+A         ala   ...    Alt+Z         alz
     Alt+1         al1   ...    Alt+0         al0
     Alt =         al=          Alt -         al-

     Escape        esc          Grey *        gr*
     Grey -        gr-          Grey +        gr+

     Backspace     bsp          Ctrl+Bckspc   cbs
     Tab           tab          Shift+tab     stb
     Enter         ent          Ctrl+Enter    cen

     Home          hom          End           end
     PgUp          pgu          PgDn          pgd
     Up            upa          Down          dna
     Left          lfa          Right         rta
     Insert        ins          Delete        del

     Ctrl+Home     chm          Ctrl+End      cnd
     Ctrl+PgUp     cpu          Ctrl+PgDn     cpd
     Ctrl+Right    cra          Ctrl+Left     cla

     Keypad 0      kp0   ...    Keypad 9      kp9
     Keypad .      kp.          Ctrl+PrtSc    cpr



                                    -84-

     Alt+[         al[          Alt+]         al]
     Alt+;         al;          Alt+'         al'
     Alt+,         al<          Alt+.         al.
     Alt+/         al/          Alt+\         al\
     Alt+*         al*          Alt+`         al`
     Alt+Kp -      ak-          Alt+Kp +      ak+
     Alt+Enter     aen          Center Key    cky

TIPS on using key-labels:

 *   Key-labels are always three characters in length.

 *   Some key-labels are not available on systems with an older BIOS.  And
     some keys do not exist on the 83-key keyboard.

 *   If the same key-label appears more than once, the first occurrence
     will be used (as with any macro label).

 *   Key-labels are not case sensitive.

 *   The Center Key is the Keypad 5 with Numlock off.


----------  USER-DEFINED Key-labels

Almost any key combination on the keyboard may be defined with the "mky"
item in the Setup File.  See "Alt+G  Edit Setup File" in Part I
(COMMO.DOC).

TIPS on using user-defined key-labels:

 *   You may have up to 32 user-defined key-labels.

 *   User-defined key-labels may be used to "override" predefined key-
     labels.

 *   Use Alt+K in the Internal Editor to obtain the scan code for any key.

 *   Beware that some keys give the same scan code when used with various
     shift keys (Ctrl, Alt or Shift) as when unshifted.  Some examples are:
     Space, Esc, Return and Backspace.

 *   You cannot define keys formed with multiple shift keys.  For example,
     you cannot use Ctrl+Alt+F1 or Ctrl+Shift+Home.



                                    -85-

==========  Appendix I   List of Reserved Variables


----------  USER-DEFINED Reserved Variables

  _modini     Modem Initialization String
  _dialpf     Default dialing prefix
  _dialsf     Default dialing suffix
  _dialsr     Dialing success response(s)
  _dialfr     Dialing failure response(s)
  _dialir     Inter-dial Delay response(s)
  _dialrt     Dialing response text, available:
                (1) after a dialing attempt if _dtc=1 or 2
                (2) in the Inter-dial Delay macro.
  _uselog     Path\filename of Usage Log
  _menux      Menu display string, x=1, 2, 3, etc.
  _mlabel     List of macro labels for pop-up menu
  _menter     Macro label for Enter key in menu
  _mcolor     Colors used with pop-up menu: text,border
  _exted      External editor command line


----------  BUILT-IN Variables

  _hom        {COMMO} home directory (e.g., c:\commo\, a:\)
  _dsk        Current disk (e.g., C:)
  _dir        Current directory (e.g., \upload, \)
  _set        Filename of Setup File (e.g., COMMO.SET)
  _fon        Filename of current Dialing Directory (e.g., COMMO.FON)
  _mac        Filename of resident Macro File (e.g., COMMO.MAC)
  _aux        Filename of auxiliary Macro File
  _edf        Filename for external editor
  _edl        Line number for external editor
  _cap        Current Capture File path\filename
  _scr        Current Screen Image File path\filename

  _ffn        Find file name (use with FILE function)
  _ffs        Find file size
  _ffd        Find file date
  _fft        Find file time

  _err        Exit code set by certain functions
  _met        Error message after Macro Error occurs
  _dfc        Disk full on capture: 1=YES, 0=NO; reset when
              Capture File is opened, set when disk is full
  _cfs        Capture File status: 0=closed, 1=open
  _pos        Position in string
  _len        Length of string

  _por        Current serial port number: 1, 2, etc.
  _spe        Current serial port speed: 2400, 38400, etc.
  _fmt        Current serial port data format: 8n1, 7e1, etc.
  _mod        Last speed reported by modem



                                    -86-

  _pad        Current serial port address: 03F8, 02E8, etc.
  _irq        Current IRQ number: 4, 3, etc.

  _ent        Character(s) sent when Enter is pressed.  Values are:
                ^m    (cr)      New Line Mode reset
                ^m^j  (cr/lf)   New Line Mode set

  _nci        Number of characters in input buffer (received and not yet
              displayed)
  _sfi        Speech Friendly Interface: 1=ON, 0=OFF

  _dtc        Dialing termination code (available after each dialing
              attempt).  Values are:
                0 = no systems were marked
                1 = successful connection
                2 = failure response received
                3 = timed out
                4 = operator intervention

  _msn        Menu label selection number, from last MENU function
              (0 for Enter, 1 to 26 for A to Z, etc.)
  _rem        Remainder from last DIVIde
  _nam        Current System Name (up to 40 chars)
  _num        Current Phone Number (up to 40 chars)
  _pas        Current Password String
  _ela        Elapsed time in minutes:seconds
  _elt        Elapsed timer in clock ticks (55 ms)
  _ver        Version number text
  _vsp        Bytes available in Variable Space

  _dat        Full date (format defined in Setup File)
  _mon        Month, mm
  _day        Day of the month, dd
  _yea        Year, yy
  _dwn        Numeric day of the week: 1=Mon, ... , 7=Sun
  _dwt        Text day of the week: Mon, Tue, ...

  _tim        Full time (format defined in Setup File)
  _24h        24 hour, hh
  _12h        12 hour, hh
  _amp        Am/pm indicator, xm
  _min        Minute, mm
  _sec        Second, ss

  _row        Current cursor row
  _col        Current cursor column
  _slr        Status Line row on screen, 0=off



                                    -87-

==========  Appendix J   Macro Functions Listed by Class


----------  Variable manipulation

  SETVariable    Assign a string to a variable name
  INCRement      Increase a numeric variable
  DECRement      Decrease a numeric variable
  MULTiply       Multiply a numeric variable
  DIVIde         Divide a numeric variable
  INSTring       Find a string within a string
  SUBString      Move a substring to a variable
  LENGth         Determine the length of a string


----------  Looking for text

  AUTO           Auto Receive
  SETLook        Set LOOKfor parameters
  LOOKfor        Look for string from port
  SSLOok         Additional string, send variable
  CALOok         Additional string, call submacro
  GOLOok         Additional string, go to macro


----------  File Input/Output

  ROPEn          Open a file for reading
  READ           Read from a file to a variable
  RCLOse         Close the read file
  WOPEn          Open a file for writing
  WRITe          Write to a file from a variable
  WCLOse         Close the write file


----------  Dialing/connect/disconnect

  SETDial        Set dialing timers
  DIAL           Dialing Directory
  FONFile        Load a new Dialing Directory file
  DPARms         Set default Terminal Parameters
  HANGup         Drop DTR to hangup
  MARK           Mark numbers for dialing
  UNMArk         Unmark Dialing Directory entries


----------  Modem control

  PARMs          Set current Terminal Parameters
  LOCAlecho      Local Echo toggle
  INITmodem      Send modem init string
  BREAk          Send a Break signal
  LIGHts         Signal Lights toggle



                                    -88-

  SIGNal         Set state of hardware signals
  SPOCtrl        Serial port output control


----------  Send/receive data

  ASCIiup        ASCII Upload
  SEND           Send a text string
  CAPMode        Set Capture Mode
  CAPTure        Capture File Options
  SETGet         Set GETString parameters
  GETString      Get a string from the modem
  RXMOdem        Receive a file using Xmodem
  RYMOdem        Receive a file using Ymodem
  RZMOdem        Receive a file using Zmodem
  SXMOdem        Send a file using Xmodem
  SYMOdem        Send a file using Ymodem
  SZMOdem        Send a file using Zmodem
  PASSword       Send current password
  RTRAn          Maintain Receive Translate Table
  STRAn          Maintain Send Translate Table
  VTCUr          VT102 cursor key strings
  VTPAd          VT102 keypad key strings


----------  Testing

  COMPare        Compare a variable to a string
  IFCOndition    Test Condition Flag
  IFERrorlevel   Test Exit Codes
  IFEXist        Test for existence of file(s)
  IFCArrier      Test for presence of Carrier Detect


----------  Macro control

  CALL           Execute a macro
  RETUrn         Return from a CALL
  PUSHstack      Push a location to the macro stack
  POPStack       Pop from the macro stack
  GOTO           Transfer control to a label
  UNLOad         Release the auxiliary Macro File from memory
  STOP           Stop macro execution
  PAUSe          Pause for interval 1-999 seconds
  HOLD           Hold until specified 24 hr time
  NOCArrier      Set a label to GOTO when carrier is lost
  SETEsc         Set a label to GOTO on Esc
  SETR           Set a label to GOTO when a Macro Error occurs


----------  Video/sound related

  CLEAr          Clear Screen



                                    -89-

  CURSor         Terminal Screen cursor toggle
  DISPlay        Display a string to the screen
  SCREen         Screen Image Save
  SFICtrl        Speech Friendly Interface control
  SPDCtrl        Serial port display control
  STATusline     Status Line on/off toggle
  VIDEo          Change to an alternate video mode
  WINDow         Preserve window display

  SOUNd          Master Sound toggle
  ALARm          Ring the alarm
  BEEP           Play a sequence of sounds


----------  Miscellaneous

  CHATmode       Chat Mode toggle
  DOORway        Doorway Mode toggle
  ELAPse         Reset the elapsed timer
  EDIT           Edit a file
  EXECute        Execute a DOS command
  EXIT           Exit {COMMO}
  FILE           Find directory entry information
  HELP           Online Help topic
  INFOrm         Display an advisory message
  INPUt          Input from the keyboard
  KEYStuff       Put key codes into the keyboard buffer
  MACRo          Macro File window
  MENU           Create a pop-up macro menu
  NOOP           No-op function, does nothing
  OFFLog         Make an {Off} entry in the Usage Log
  PRINtlog       Print Log toggle
  SCROllback     Display Scrollback Buffer
  SETUp          Edit Setup File
  SHELl          Shell to DOS
  TOGGles        Set Toggles



                                    -90-

==========  Appendix K   {COMMO} Support Files

The {COMMO} support files are standard ASCII text files and may be modified
with any editor (or word processor in "non-document" mode).  From within
{COMMO} they may be edited with {COMMO}'s Internal Editor.  Each support
file may be up to 64k in size (if there is enough memory).

Each line in a support file should be no longer than 255 characters and
should end with a cr/lf pair (which are not included in the length).  The
only characters not allowed in literal form in the support files are ASCII
0, 10 and 13.  Where necessary, these may be represented symbolically as
shown in Appendix D.  For example, an ASCII 13 would be written as ^M.

TIPS on using {COMMO} support files:

 *   All support files must reside in the {COMMO} home directory.

 *   Support files currently in use may have outstanding changes and should
     not be edited in the Shell to DOS unless the Swap to Disk feature is
     used (the files are saved prior to the Swap to Disk).  They may also
     be edited safely with the Alt+E feature from their respective windows.


----------  The Internal Editor

{COMMO}'s Internal Editor is provided for your convenience.  It is not
intended to be a comprehensive text editor.  An external editor (see below)
should be used if more editing power is desired.  The Internal Editor may
be used to edit {COMMO} support files and most other text files smaller
than 64k.

When a file that can be edited is loaded, a fixed amount of expansion space
is allocated (no more than 64k total).  The amount of expansion space is
determined by the "esf" item in the Setup File.  The Internal Editor will
warn you while editing if the expansion space fills up, at which point you
may reload the file or restart {COMMO} if you wish to continue editing (the
file will be saved automatically without loss of data).

Key assignments for the Internal Editor are given in Online Help.  A Color
Chart will be displayed in the editor when F7 is pressed (useful in the
Setup File and for the DISPlay function in Macro Files).


----------  Using an External Editor

An external text editor may be used to edit the Dialing Directory and Macro
Files directly from their respective windows.  Your editor's command line
must be defined in the reserved variable "_exted" (normally defined in the
Setup File).  Then you simply press Alt+E instead of "E" to use your editor
instead of the Internal Editor.



                                    -91-

TIPS on using an external editor:

 *   The Dialing Directory, resident Macro File and auxiliary Macro File
     will all be saved (if changed) prior to running the editor, and will
     be reloaded upon return.

 *   The "_exted" variable is normally defined in COMMO.SET, but it may be
     defined in a macro as well.

 *   Two built-in variables provide the filename and the line number to be
     used on the editor's command line:

          _edf    The filename of the last file displayed (or current).
          _edl    The current line number of the cursor within the file.

     These may be used as in this Setup File example:

          {set _exted,c:\util\editor.exe %_hom%%_edf /n%_edl}

     Note that the "/n" switch to set the line number may be different in
     your editor (or may not be supported at all).


----------  The Setup File, COMMO.SET

The Setup File contains settings for many important parameters.  The first
time you run {COMMO} you should use the Alt+G key command to edit this file
to your own needs.

IMPORTANT!  If you edit the Setup File, the changes will not take effect
until you restart {COMMO}.

See "Alt+G  Edit Setup File" for details on each item.


----------  The Dialing Directory, COMMO.FON

The Dialing Directory file contains information about each system that you
will be calling, including the telephone number, password, Linked Macro and
Terminal Parameter overrides.  Use the Alt+D key command to dial numbers
and to edit this file.

A new Dialing Directory file may be loaded at any time using the FONFile
macro function, or manually within the Dialing Directory window.  This
feature may result in somewhat higher memory usage during a {COMMO}
session.

See also "Alt+D  Dialing Directory."



                                    -92-

----------  The Resident Macro File, COMMO.MAC

The resident Macro File is loaded when you start {COMMO} and contains
macros that are available at all times.  Use the Alt+M key command to
select a macro for execution and to edit the resident Macro File.  A
complete description of {COMMO} macros is given in Part II (MACRO.DOC).
Summary lists of macro functions and key designators can be found in the
appendices and also in Online Help.

See also "Alt+M  Macro File" for information about compiling Macro Files.


----------  The Auxiliary Macro File

An auxiliary Macro File may be loaded (or replaced) at any time using the
CALL and GOTO macro functions.  A new auxiliary file may be loaded manually
within the Macro File window.  An auxiliary may also be specified in a
Dialing Directory entry and will load when a connection is made with the
remote system.

When an auxiliary is loaded, the auxiliary and resident files behave as one
Macro File.  Note that the auxiliary is positioned logically AHEAD of the
resident, allowing macros in the resident to be overridden when necessary.
You can CALL and GOTO between the files, but a macro cannot span the two
files.

The current auxiliary may be released from memory by selecting "U" on the
Utility Menu or by using the UNLOad macro function.

See also "Alt+M  Macro File" for information about compiling Macro Files.


----------  The Online Help File, COMMO.HLP

The Online Help File contains the information for {COMMO}'s context-related
Online Help.  This file can be customized.

See "F1  How to Use Online Help."


----------  Changes to the Support Files

Whenever a change is made to any file, the internal change flag is set for
that file (indicated by an "*" next to the column number in the Internal
Editor).  Changes are normally saved automatically at program exit or if
another file is loaded, but you may press Alt+F in the Internal Editor to
immediately save any file to disk.

If you do not wish to save your changes, you may press Alt+Q while in the
Internal Editor.  This will reset {COMMO}'s change flag and the file will
not be saved automatically (however, any subsequent changes to the file
will set the change flag again).



                                    -93-

==========  Appendix L   External Communications Drivers (INT 14)

{COMMO} supports external communications drivers that use the standard INT
14 (BIOS) interface.  These include various FOSSIL drivers, network
communications drivers, Internet protocol drivers and the BIOS in your
computer (the original INT 14 interface).

You tell {COMMO} to use the driver by specifying the port speed as "*s",
where "s" is a number from 0 to 7.  For example:

     {bps=*7}                 Setup File
     {parm *7,8n1,3,A,0}      Macro File
     {*5,7e1,1,V,0}           Dialing Directory

The driver will map the number 0 to 7 into a port speed.  The standard
(BIOS) mapping is 0=110 bps, 1=150 bps, 2=300 bps, 3=600 bps, 4=1200 bps,
5=2400 bps, 6=4800 bps, 7=9600 bps.  Some drivers map other speeds.  For
example, the X00 FOSSIL driver maps 0=19200 bps and 1=38400 bps to allow
speeds higher than 9600 bps.

Consult your driver documentation for details on installation and speed
mapping.  Drivers may allow the speed to be "locked" (when installing the
driver) and ignore the speed code provided by {COMMO}.

Note also that drivers may map port numbers as 0=COM1, 1=COM2, etc.  In
{COMMO} you still use 1=COM1, 2=COM2, etc.  The corresponding "com" item in
the Setup File is ignored in driver mode.

TIPS on using the X00 FOSSIL driver:

 *   Use the XU utility to activate the FOSSIL (prior to starting {COMMO})
     or X00 will be operating in BIOS emulation mode only.

 *   In Win95 X00 may work better if you load it in the DOS window where it
     will be used.

 *   In Win95 you may get better results if you increase the size of the
     transmit and receive buffers to 2048 bytes.