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EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
E Z X - T A L K
Version 2.1
Reference Manual
Quick and Easy Modem communications for anyone with a Hayes(tm)
compatible modem and IBM(tm) compatible computer (DOS 2.1+, 256K)
EZX-TALK (tm)
"The Worlds Easiest to Use Modem Communications Program"
is published by
EZX Corporation [Telephone Number: (713) 338-2238]
403 NASA Road 1 East, Suite 1777, Webster, TX 77598 U.S.A.
Published and printed in the United States of America.
24 Hour BBS: 1-713-280-8180 (1200/2400, N, 8,1)
Copyright 1985,86,87,88 EZX Corporation as a licensed,
unpublished, proprietary work. All international rights reserved.
EZX-TALK and the other "EZ" names are trademark of EZX.
Page 1
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
The printed Reference Manual and associated registered
software may not be copied, resold, reproduced, disclosed,
archived, transmitted, or transferred in any form, electronic or
otherwise, without the expressed written permission of EZX
Corporation.
EZX Corp. hereby grants a "book" license to the original
individual (even if purchased by a company) user of this copy of
EZ-Forms Lite. You may use the program on your computer and make one
backup for storage as long as there is no possibility of use or
residence on more than one machine at any time. Just like two people
cannot read the same book in different locations at the same time.
Every registered copy of EZX-TALK has a unique imbedded serial
number for traceabililty. You may not sell or give copies of the
registered program or printed documentation to anyone. No
exceptions.
Pricing, specifications, and conditions are subject to
change without notice.
Send all registrations and inquires for site (multiple
CPU or network) licensing to EZX Corporation at the above address.
Disclaimer:
EZX Corporation, Inc. makes NO claims AND offers NO
warranties of any sort with EZX-TALK. EZX Corporation assumes NO
responsibility for any sort of damage resulting from the apparent
or actual use of EZX-TALK (mental or physical). The forms and
program provided are not guaranteed as to merchantability or
fitness for their ultimate use. The user accepts all
responsibility for use and may not resell the program or any
supplied form or documentation.
IBM PC/XT/AT are registered trademarks of the International Business
Machines Corporation. EZ-Forms, EZX-TALK, and Valueware are
trademarks of EZX. All other trademarks belong to their respective
owners.
*** PREFACE
This manual is dedicated to Don Pearsall without whose never ending
perseverance, EZX-TALK would not be possible.
*** ABOUT THIS MANUAL
You will notice that this manual is concise. This is intentional
as we have strived to make EZX-TALK the easiest program of its type
to use. We have opted to provide on-line user help. Feel free
to use this reference manual to install and get acquainted with the
program. Also, we will be using the acronym "EZXT" interchangeably
with EZX-TALK throughout this manual.
The real fun and learning begin when you use the program. So
enjoy, live long, and prosper.
With warmest regards, The gang at EZX Corp.
Page 2
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
EZX-TALK
TABLE OF CONTENTS
**********************************
Section Title Page
**********************************
1.0 Introduction 4
1.2 Help 4
2.0 What you Have 5
2.2 The Menu System 5
2.3 Main Menu Options 6
3.0 Communicate 6
3.3 Transmit 10
3.4 Receive 11
3.6 Hang Up 12
3.7 Change Modem 12
4.0 Files System 13
4.1 Directory 13
4.2 Change Drive 14
4.3 View Files 14
4.4 Erase 15
5.0 Unused
6.0 Utilities System 16
6.1 Macro Programming 16
6.6 Text Capture 18
6.7 Printer Toggle 19
7.0 The Command System 20
8.0 System Files 22
9.0 Hard/software Req. 23
10.0 User Requirements 23
Appendix A Getting Started 24
Appendix B Configuration 25
ORDERING INFORMATION...............27
Note: the Valueware(tm) version of EZX-TALK is limited to
2 directory entries. Everything else is functional.
Page 3
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*****************************************
1.0 INTRODUCTION
*****************************************
*** What is EZX-TALK?
The EZX-TALK Communications Program provides an electronic link
between your computer and a computer in one of thousands of homes and
offices throughout the world. Computer time sharing services and
Bulletin Board Systems are now within the reach of your computer.
With EZX-TALK, programs and files of information can be sent back and
forth between your home and another computer quickly and easily.
Unlike most other communication systems, EZX-TALK does much of the
work for you so there is virtually no training time to operate the
system. EZX-TALK does the dialing and log-on to the remote computer
for you automatically.
EZX-TALK features an easy to use menu system that will save you time
and frustration over other more complex, but no more useful, systems.
You may also use a command mode if you need to implement an option
without going through the menu.
*****************************************
1.2 HELP
*****************************************
This manual will try to be as helpful as possible, but it is
recognized that questions will arise about the operation of the
system, or problems may develop.
For the most part, problems can be resolved by reviewing this manual,
but if it is necessary to diagnose problems, please use the EZX
Corporation BBS at 713-280-8180.
The biggest problem most user's have is that they answer Y, or yes to
the question "Do you have a Hayes compatible modem?" Although most
modems are Hayes "compatible" there is usually some variation
required in the initialization string. If this is the case, consult
the manual that came with your modem for the recommended
initialization string.
Page 4
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*****************************************
2.0 WHAT YOU HAVE
*****************************************
On your EZX-TALK diskette, you should have the following
files:
1. EZXT.COM - The program file.
2. EZXTINST.COM - The installation program.
You may have the following files, although EZX-TALK will create them
for you if you don't.
1. EZX-TALK.DIR - A file of phone numbers.
2. EZX-TALK.KEY - A file of your macros you create.
These files should reside in the same subdirectory on a hard disk or
be on the same floppy disk you run the system on.
Please refer to Appendix B - Installing EZX-TALK.
*****************************************
2.1 THE MENU SYSTEM
*****************************************
The EZX-TALK menu system has been designed to be easy and intuitive
to operate, requiring very few keystrokes from the user to select
each option.
The menu on your screen should be similar to the one illustrated
below.
* Main Menu ********************************************
* *
* Communicate Files Utilities MenuOff Help Quit *
* Dial, Transmit, Receive, HangUp, Change *
********************************************************
Fig. 2.1
Each option can be selected by one of two methods.
1. Pressing the first letter of each option on
your Keyboard, or..
2. Moving the highlighted bar (the cursor) by using the left or
right arrow keys at the right of the keyboard and then pressing
[Enter].
After choosing an option by either method, another menu will appear,
or the option will be implemented.
On the next page is a summary of the Main Menu options and their
functions.
Page 5
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*****************************************
2.2 MAIN MENU OPTIONS
*****************************************
Listed below are the options contained in the Main Menu and their
functions.
Communicate this will display a sub-menu of functions dealing with
calling other computers.
Files allows you to change directories, drives, look at text files,
or erase files.
Utilities Squeeze files, turn printer on/off, capture text or program
a function key.
MenuOff turns off the Main Menu.
Help Provides information about using EZX-TALK.
Quit Stops the program and returns to DOS.
For a detailed description of each menu option please
turn to the appropriate section.
*****************************************
3.0 COMMUNICATE
*****************************************
*** Introduction
The option Communicate on the EZX-TALK Main Menu will allow manual to
be performed using EZX-TALK communications functions.
With Communicate you may:
> Dial a remote Computer and log on.
> Add or delete entries for your computer to dial.
> Transmit a file to another system.
> Receive a file from another system.
> Hang up the modem.
> Change your modem communications settings.
*****************************************
3.1 USING COMMUNICATE
*****************************************
*** Starting the Communicate Option
The Communicate option is started from the Main Menu. Press C or
highlight the option with the arrow keys, then press [Enter].
When the option is implemented, you will see a screen similar to the
one in figure 3.1.
Page 6
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
** Communicate Menu ********************************
* *
* Dial Transmit Receive HangUp Change Quit *
* Dial another computer system *
****************************************************
Fig 3.1
This is the Communicate Sub-Menu and it is from here that you
implement the Communicate Options.
The rest of this section will be devoted to operating the options
Dial Transmit Receive Hang-Up Change and Quit.
*****************************************
3.2 DIAL
*****************************************
*** Purpose
Dial causes the modem to call the number you specify. The EZX-TALK
program will set your modem to the communications settings that have
been stored in your directory. If a remote modem answers the phone,
EZX-TALK will establish a connection with it.
*** Operation
When Dial is selected, you will see a screen similar to
the one in figure 3.2.
*******************************************************************
* Dial ManualDial Add Change Remove NextPage PrevPage Quit *
* *
* Automatic Dialing of System on File *
* *
* *
*******************************************************************
* E Z X - T A L K Phone Directory *
* *
* # System Name Phone Number Baud P D S *
* *
* 1 compuserve 2396124 2400 E 7 1 *
* *
* 2 ecl 2957775 1200 N 8 1 *
* *
* 3 etc.... *
* *
* Use Dial to automatically dial a shown system. ManualDial *
* will ask you for the phone number and system parameters. *
* Use Change or Add to edit systems to be stored in your files. *
* NextPage and PrevPage allow you to scroll more systems on screen*
*******************************************************************
Fig 3.2
Page 7
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*** Dial
By pressing D, you will start the AutoDial function. A window will
open in the lower right corner of the screen and ask you for the
number of the system you wish to call. Each system is assigned a
number beside its name on the screen. Enter a valid system number.
Once a valid system number is entered, you will be asked for the
number of times to re-dial if the number is busy. Press Enter for a
default of 4 times.
Once the proper system number and re-dial tries has been entered, the
modem will start dialing.
If the modem of the other system answers, the screen will clear and
you will see the log-on screen the other system is transmitting.
Type as you would on any terminal.
If the remote modem does not answer within 35 seconds, EZX-TALK will
re-dial the number of times you specified.
* If the modem does not dial, please recheck your configuration, and
consult your modem users manual.
*** ManualDial
When you press M, the ManualDial sequence is started. Unlike
AutoDial, this option will ask for system information. A window will
open in the upper right corner of the screen.
This option will ask you the following questions:
Enter Phone Number: Enter the full number you wish to dial.
Modem in Com1: or 2: Enter 1 or 2 (see Appendix C)
Baud Rate: Enter 300, 1200, 2400, 9600 or 19200.
Parity: Enter N, E, or O. for None, Even or Odd.
Data Bits: Enter 7 or 8.
Stop Bits: Enter 1 or 2.
Pulse or Tone Enter P if your phone is not a touchtone system,
otherwise enter T.
The defaults are Com1:, 1200 baud, N parity, 8 data bits 1 stop bit
and Touch Tone.
Many computer systems will allow you to use any combination you
desire, but for file transfer, the system automatically set for 8
data bits, No parity, and one stop bit. When it is done transferring
files, it will automatically reset the settings you had dialed with.
When you are done entering the settings, the modem will start dialing
just as in Dial.
The screen will clear when the remote modem answers the phone.
Page 8
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*** Add
Add is a function used to enter new computer systems and their
parameters to the EZX-TALK Phone Directory.
To implement Add, press A. You will see the cursor move to the next
empty line on the directory. Enter the system name (up to 40
characters), then press return to get to the phone number entry.
Enter the complete phone number. You may enter characters, including
parenthesis, other than numbers to make the phone number more clear.
For example, a number of 19992957775 would be dialed the same as 1-
(999)-295-7775.
For those phone systems where a pause is needed (as in a PBX system),
you may enter one or more commas where the pause is required. Each
comma delays the dialing sequence 3 seconds. An example of this is
9,1-(999)-295-7775.
When you are finished entering the phone number, press Enter.
The Baud Rate, Parity, Data Bits, and Stop Bits are entered next.
Press Enter after entering each parameter. Default values are
1200,N,8,1.
When you are finished Adding a system, the cursor will return to the
bottom of the screen, and you may make another option selection.
*** Change
This option will allow you to edit each system entry on the screen.
You may change the name, number or system parameters according to
their new values.
Press C to implement Chg. You will be asked Enter the # to Change:
Enter a number corresponding to the entry you wish to edit, then
press Enter (Remember, do not change #1 unless authorized to do so).
Change the name, number and parameters, pressing Enter to skip to
each one.
The Delete key and the Insert key work as they would on any editor of
word processor, and the back-space key will delete all characters to
the left.
Pressing Enter without changing each entry will leave it as it was.
When you are done, the cursor will return to the bottom of the
screen, and the new values will stored on the disk.
*** Remove (Delete)
Remove is used to delete an entire system entry.
Press R to implement Remove. You will be asked to Enter the # to
Delete:. Enter the number corresponding to the system you want to
erase, and press Enter.
Page 9
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
The system will be erased from the screen and the disk and the
entries below it will all move up to fill up the empty space.
Use this option carefully, once deleted, that system is gone from
your EZX-TALK files.
*** NextPage (Page Forward)
This option will display the next several system entries, if they
exist. Press N to get the next page of entries.
*** PrevPage (Page Back)
This works just the opposite of PgFwd. If you are not at the first
page, press P and the preceding page of entries will be displayed.
*** Quit
Pressing Q will clear the screen and display the EZX-TALK Main Menu.
*****************************************
3.3 TRANSMIT
*****************************************
*** Purpose
Transmit is a function of EZX-TALK that sends the file that you
specify to a remote computer system. Before a file can be
transmitted, EZX-TALK must first have connected with the remote
system and that computer must be ready to receive the file.
Any type of file that is stored on your disk can be transmitted.
This function uses a communication protocol called XModem (CheckSum
method) and only systems that use the same protocol can successfully
receive the file you send. Virtually all systems you can call will
utilize this method.
You can also send or receive ASCII text. Please refer to section 7.0
*** Operation
From the Communicate Menu, press T or using the arrow keys, highlight
the Transmit option and press Return.
If you are not already connected to a remote modem, your computer
will tell you that this option cannot be performed.
If you are connected, a window will appear and ask Enter FileName to
Transmit:. You must enter the correct filename as it exists on disk
or EZX-TALK will write Cannot Find File: (filename).
Once the correct filename has been entered, you will see a screen
similar to figure 3.3.
Block Count Error Count % Transmitted
----------- ----------- ------------
1 0 1 Fig. 3.3
Page 10
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
When the file transfer starts, the block count will start increasing
and continue until the file has been fully transferred. Each block
represents 128 bytes of data transmitted successfully.
A normal file transfer will have no or very few retries showing under
the Retry count. If a block of the file has not been received
correctly, EZX-TALK will retransmit that block until it has been
received by the remote computer intact.
EZX-TALK will retransmit the same block 25 times, after that it
assumes that there is a problem and asks Continue (Y/N):. Pressing Y
will continue the transmission and N will cancel the transmission.
The XModem protocol is called an error correcting protocol. This
means that the file the remote computer receives is an exact copy of
the one you transmitted, and that it will compensate for bad phone
lines or modem connections.
When the entire file has been successfully transmitted, you will see
Press any key to continue.. Pressing a key will display Main Menu.
*****************************************
3.4 RECEIVE
*****************************************
*** Purpose
Receive is just the opposite of Transmit. It's purpose is to receive
a file from a remote computer and store it on your disk.
As with Transmit, you must be connected to a remote computer that
uses the XModem protocol and that computer must be ready to transmit
to you.
*** Operation
From the Communication Menu, press R, or use the arrow keys to
highlight Receive and press Return. A window will be shown on the
screen and you will be asked Enter Filename to Receive:. Enter the
filename exactly as you want it to be stored on the disk. It is
not necessary to name the file the same name as it exists on the
remote computer, but it is good practice to do so.
When the file name has been entered, press Return. You will see the
following appear in the Receive Window:
Block Count Error Count
------------ -------------
1 0
If the receive process is progressing normally, the Block Count will
increment until the file has been received correctly.
If the Error Count increases and the Block Count does not, then the
two systems are not operating correctly. In this case, the error
count will increase to 25 and then ask Continue (Y/N):. Pressing Y
will continue the process and N will cancel the Receive function.
Page 11
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
If at any time you wish to halt the receive process, press the Esc
key and hold it down until the above message appears.
When the entire file has been received correctly, you will see a
message stating File receive Complete, press any key to continue.
Pressing any character key will display the Main Menu.
*****************************************
3.6 HANGUP
*****************************************
HangUp has the same effect of putting the phone back on its hook.
Selecting HangUp will terminate the remote modem connection and reset
your modem so that it can dial again.
To select this option, press H at the Communicate Menu, or while
still on-line, press Alt-Q.
*****************************************
3.7 CHANGE
*****************************************
Change will allow you to set your modem setting "on the fly". For
instance, if you have connected with a remote modem at 7 data bits
and need to change to 8, use this option. Normally, changing modem
speeds does not work, so leave this option unchanged.
To implement Change, press C at the communications menu, or press
Alt-B while in the terminal mode.
You will be asked a series of communication setting as shown below.
Modem in Com1: or 2: Enter 1 or 2 *
Baud Rate: Enter 300, 1200 or 2400.
Parity: Enter N, E, or O. for None, Even or Odd.
Data Bits: Enter 7 or 8.
Stop Bits: Enter 1 or 2.
Pulse or Tone Enter P if your phone is not a touchtone system,
otherwise enter T.
When you are done, EZX-TALK will reset the modem to the parameters
you have specified.
* Do not change port settings while still connected.
Page 12
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*****************************************
4.0 THE FILES SUBMENU
*****************************************
The Files Submenu allows you to perform disk and file related
operations similar to those that may be performed while at the DOS
level. These functions are included in EZX-TALK because you may need
to use them when sending or receiving files.
With Files you may:
1. List a DIRECTORY of files on your disk.
2. Change your default DISK or Subdirectory.
3. VIEW a text file.
4. ERASE files.
The Files SubMenu will look similar to figure 4.0 below.
** EZX-TALK Files Menu ************************
* *
* Directory ChangeDrive View Erase Quit *
* Show files on logged drive *
***********************************************
Fig 4.0
*****************************************
4.1 DIRECTORY
*****************************************
*** Purpose
Use Directory when you need to see what files are on your disk. You
may be selective about what files are displayed by using wildcard (*)
characters.
*** Operation of Directory
Implement this option from the Files Menu by pressing the D key or
highlighting the option with the arrow keys then pressing Enter.
At this point, EZX-TALK will need to know the DIR MASK: that you wish
to use. A mask is a form of file selection that will only display
the files matching a certain pattern.
You use an asterisk (*) to act as a wildcard (so that * will match
anything).
As an example, if we wanted to display all the files that had an
extension of .PRN our Dir Mask to be typed in would be *.PRN.
Conversely, if we wanted to display only those files that began with
EZX-TALK we would type EZX-TALK.*.
Page 13
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
The default mask is *.* meaning that by merely pressing Enter, all
files on that disk and subdirectory would be displayed.
By preceding the dir mask with a drive name, you may select files on
a drive other than the default. Example: A:*.PRN will give you all
PRN files on the A drive.
After the files have been displayed, the free disk space (available
to be used) will appear and you will be prompted to Press ANY Key To
Continue... Press any character key to re-display the Files Menu.
*****************************************
4.2 CHANGE DRIVE
*****************************************
*** Purpose
Change Drive allows you to change the current default disk drive and
Subdirectory you are using.
*** Operating Change Drive
To implement Change Drive, press the C key or highlight the option
with the arrow keys and press Enter.
A window similar to figure 8.3 below will be displayed and your will
be prompted to Enter New Drive Letter: Enter a letter corresponding
to the drive you want to use such as A, B, C etc.
Next, you will be prompted to Enter New Directory: Enter a valid
subdirectory that already exists on the selected drive. Example:
C:\EZX-TALK will tell the computer to read files only in the EZX-TALK
subdirectory.
If the drive and subdirectory were entered correctly, the File Menu
will be displayed again.
If the drive or the SubDirectory does not exist, you will be prompted
to re-enter the valid SubDirectory.
If you specify a floppy disk drive, you must have a diskette in the
drive or you will get a Abort, Retry, Ignore message. If this
occurs, insert a diskette in the drive and press R. Pressing A will
terminate the program and you will at the DOS level.
*****************************************
4.3 VIEW
*****************************************
*** Purpose
View will allow you to look into files that have text or printable
material in them. Such files commonly have file extensions of .PRN,
.TXT, .DOC. Files such as programs or data-files cannot be viewed.
Page 14
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*** Operating View
From the File Menu, press the V key or highlight the option with the
arrow keys and press Enter. You will see a window appear on the
screen similar to figure 4.3.
*** View Files *******************************
* *
* Enter FileName to View: *
* *
**********************************************
Enter a valid filename to be displayed. If the file exists, the
screen will clear and the first 21 lines of text will be displayed.
If the file does not exist, you will see a message stating Cannot
find file: (filename). and you will be asked for another file name.
Pressing Enter without having entered a filename will cancel the
option.
After the first 21 lines of the file have been displayed, press any
key to display the next 21 lines. If at any time you wish to cancel
this option, press the Esc key and the screen will clear, and the
File Menu will be re-displayed.
*****************************************
4.4 ERASE
*****************************************
*** Purpose
Erase is used to delete a file on the default disk drive and
subdirectory. Use caution with this option as the erased file is
gone permanently and cannot be recovered.
*** Operation of Erase
From the File Menu, press the E key or highlight the option using the
arrow keys, then press Enter.
You will see a window open on the screen that is similar to the one
shown in figure 4.4.
**** Erase Window **********************
* *
* Enter FileName to Delete: *
****************************************
At this point, you must enter a valid file name you want to be
erased. If the name you enter does not exist on the default drive
and subdirectory, you will see a message stating Cannot Erase
(filename), and you will be prompted for another name.
Page 15
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
If the filename does exist on the disk, it will be immediately erased
and the File Menu will be re-displayed.
*** QUIT
This is the last option on the files menu. Selecting Main will re-
display the EZX-TALK Main Menu.
*****************************************
5.0 Reserved for future use.
*****************************************
*****************************************
6.0 UTILITIES
*****************************************
The Utilities SubMenu combines a variety of functions such as printer
support, Squeezing files, Text capturing, and logon programming.
From the Main Menu, press U for the Utilities SubMenu.
The menu will look similar to this:
***Utility Menu************************************************
* *
*Macro Programming TextCapture PrinterOn LineFeeds DOS Quit*
* *
* Assign Macros to function keys *
* *
***************************************************************
Each option will be explained in the following sections.
*****************************************
6.1 UTILITY OPTIONS
*****************************************
*** Macro Programming
Press M if you need to change or add to the Log-On keys.
First, a short explanation. A macro is a combination of two or more
keystrokes that you can cause to be implemented just by pressing one
key, called a Log-on key. These keys are your function keys on the
side of the keyboard and can be programed.
As an example of how this can help you, suppose that you had to enter
a series of responses to get into a computer service such as
Compuserve. With each call, you perform the same log-on procedure
dialing Telenet or Tymnet, asking for the connection, and giving your
passwords.
Page 16
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
Carriage Return, Carriage Return.
? D1
@ C 202202
Enter User Number: 76656,356
PassWord: USE/EZX-TALK
This repetitious sequence can be programed so that your LogOn key
will do it for you.
*****************************************
6.2 MACRO PROGRAMMING
*****************************************
When you press M at the Utilities Menu, a screen will appear similar
to figure 6.0.
*** LogOn Macros Key **********************************************
* *
* Change/Add NextPage PrevPage Quit *
* *
* Edit or Add Macro Key Text *
* *
* *
* *
* Unshifted Function key *
* *
* *
* 1. *
* *
* . *
* . *
* *
* 10. *
* *
* *
* *
* *
* *
* Function Keys 1-10. Use | for CR, ~ for 1 second delay, and { *
* for comments. *
* *
* To make changes, simply select Change/Add. Use the Ins and Del *
* keys as you normally do. Press P for Previous pages of key *
* assignments, and N for the Next Page. *
*******************************************************************
Fig 6.0
To change or add a LogOn Key, press C, Then enter the number of the
key to change or add. Each number corresponds to a matching Function
key on your keyboard. There are 40 combinations - F1..F10, Shift +
F1..F10, Ctrl + F1..F10 and Alt + F1..F10.
Use NextPg to change to each set of 10 function keys. After each
function key is assigned a logon sequence, merely pressing that key
(or key combination) will send the appropriate sequence to the remote
computer.
Page 17
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
Since each log-on sequence must exactly match the way a remote
computer system expects it's questions to be answered, you must also
be very accurate in the way you program in the keystroke sequence.
Examine the logon sequence below.
JOE|JONES|~~~~~EZX-Talk|{Logon for my favorite BBS}
This sequence is an example of a logon sequence needed to access a
typical BBS (Bulletin Board System). To show you how a typical
question/answer session would operate, read the sequence below:
WELCOME TO EZ-HOST BBS .......
PLEASE ENTER YOUR FIRST NAME: JOE SMITH <cr>
Searching user list...
ENTER YOUR PASSWORD: 123456789 <cr>
Connected 1200 Baud, N, 8, 1 at 12:01 February 19, 1992
The logon sequence has answered all of the BBS prompts.
The vertical bar (|) in the sequence is a character that means Enter
or carriage return.
The tilde (~) means pause for one second. In the example, a 5 second
pause was used until the next sequence of characters were
transmitted.
The left bracket ({) ends a macro sequence and will allow you to
enter a comment.
NextPg will display the next ten log-on sequences, if they were
programed. When you enter the Macro Programming option, the first
ten macros displayed are those that will be implemented when you
press a function key. The next page will show those that are started
with Shift[FKey]. The third page is Ctrl[FKey], and the fourth is
Alt[FKey].
PrevPg will display the Macro Keys just the reverse of the above.
Quit will re-display the Utilities Sub-Menu.
*****************************************
6.3, 6.4, 6.5 RESERVED FOR FUTURE
*****************************************
*****************************************
6.6 TEXT CAPTURE
*****************************************
Introduction
Text Capture is a EZX-TALK function that will allow you to store
everything you see being displayed on the screen to your disk.
This is useful in situations where you need to keep a permanent
record of your log-on session and possibly process it with a text
editor.
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EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*** Operation
From the Utilities SubMenu, press T to start capturing all the text
appearing on your screen. An exact image of the scrolling display
will be stored in memory until you press T again.
This is a toggle function. If TextCapture is on, it will be turned
off. If it is off, it will be turned on.
When Text Capture is on, you will see a T in the lower left corner of
the screen. It will stay there until you turn it off.
When implementing this function, all text will be stored on disk,
toggle it off by using the menu, or from the terminal mode, press
Alt-C. You will be asked to name the file you wish to store it
under. After you enter a valid file name, the text will be stored on
disk as an ASCII file.
Note: You may also send ASCII text files to another computer. This
is different from the Transmit option discussed in section 3.3 in
that no error checking is performed.
Many computers that you can call can be set to capture text coming
in, as can EZX-TALK. When you select this option, all the ASCII
file you send will be received into the answering computer's file.
To send text, press Alt-T while on-line. A window will open, asking
you to name the text file to send. Enter a valid filename at this
point. If the file exists, it will be sent to the receiving
computer.
See also Section 7.0.
*****************************************
6.7 PRINTER ON
*****************************************
*** Introduction
PrinterOn is a function similar to TextCapture in the previous
section. When it is turned on, anything appearing on-screen is sent
to the printer to be printed verbatim.
*** Operation
To start printing the text scrolling on your screen, just press P
from the Utilities SubMenu. To indicate that it is on, a P will
appear in the lower right corner of your screen. With this function
on, and your printer operational, anything appearing on your screen
will be printed. This is a toggle function. Each time it is selected
it will turn the printer on or off.
NOTE: Be sure that your printer is turned on, connected, and on
line before you use this function. If the printer is not accepting
input, the program will not continue until it does.
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EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*****************************************
6.7 LINE FEEDS
*****************************************
This option is a toggle on/off function that will add a line feed to
your incoming text for systems that do not automatically do it for
you.
If you notice that all your lines of text are being written on top of
each other, select this option.
You can also implement this option at the terminal mode by pressing
Alt-A (append).
*****************************************
6.8 DOS
*****************************************
*** Introduction
DOS is a command to exit the EZX-TALK system to the operating system
where you may perform DOS functions such as copy, del, or anything
else. You may also run other programs while at the DOS prompt. This
is commonly called a Shell.
When this command is started, the screen will clear and you will see
the message "Now in DOS, Type Exit to Return to EZX-TALK".
If you type "Exit" at the DOS prompt, EZX-TALK will resume where it
left off.
The DOS function can be executed while on line by pressing Alt-G,
too.
*****************************************
7.0 THE COMMAND SYSTEM
*****************************************
*** Introduction
The Command System is a method of implementing EZX-TALK functions
without having to use the menu system.
By using the Command System, you can quickly select an option such as
PrinterOn or the Files System while communicating with another
computer.
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EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*** Operation of The Command System
All Command System options are started with an Alt key combination
popular with many communication programs.
For each option described, first press and hold the Alt key, then
press the letter key for that option.
On the next page is a list of the options and the key that will start
that option.
*****************************************
7.1 COMMAND SYSTEM OPTIONS
*****************************************
The list below shows the commands available to use.
A = Append Line Feed. Add LF after carriage return
B = Baud rate, parity, data bit stop bit change.
C = Capture all incoming text to Disk.
D = Dial System... Dials, add numbers, change parameters
E = Echo characters..Toggle between full & half duplex
F = File Directory
G = GoDos. Drop to the DOS prompt (shell).
H = Help. Information on how to operate EZX-TALK.
I = Incoming XModem file capture. Receive File to disk
K = Kill (erase) files.
L = Logon Keys Management.
M = Main Menu System will be displayed.
N = New Drive selected.
O = Outgoing XModem (transmit) file transfer.
P = Printer Toggle. Turn Printer on/off.
Q = Quit communicating (Hang Up).
S = Screen Clear.
T = Text Send..Send ASCII text files verbatim.
V = View File - show text file on screen.
X = eXit program, go to DOS.
Each of these options can only be implemented while the
Menu System is off.
(To turn off the menu system, press M at the Main Menu)
Many of the choices on the Command System are available in the Menu
System and have already been described. The following commands are
ones that are used only through the Command System.
*** Echo (Alt-E)
Some computer systems that are called require a process called Full
Duplex. Normally, you can connect and communicate with a remote
computer using the default mode of Half Duplex.
Full Duplex means each character you type is printed on the screen by
EZX-TALK and also sent to the remote system, since a computer needing
Full Duplex does not send (or echo) your character back to you. If
you contact a system and you cannot see what you are typing, you need
full duplex. In that case Press Alt-E.
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EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*** Screen Clear (Alt-S)
Screen Clear will erase all data showing on your current screen.
Press Alt-S to clear the screen.
*** Send ASCII files (Alt-T)
Use this option while on-line to send a text file to a remote
computer that is ready to receive a text file. When you press this
option, a window will open and ask for a valid file name.
After the file name is entered, the file will be sent line by line.
This method is available only for ASCII files, and offers no error
correction.
*****************************************
8.0 EZX-TALK SYSTEM FILES
*****************************************
If you install the system yourself (Appendix B), or it is necessary
to re-install the system, the files listed below are required for the
operation of EZX-TALK.
1. EZX-TALK.COM. This is the executable program.
2. EZX-TALK.DIR. This file contains the phone numbers and other
data EZX-TALK.COM needs.
3. EZX-TALK.KEY. This file contains data pertaining to your
identity when a BBS interrogates your system to see who is calling.
4. EZXTINST.COM. Use this program to install your EZX-TALK system on
your hard disk.
6. EZX-TALK.CNF. This file is created by EZXTINST.COM.
If you do not have one or more of these files, please call EZX for
replacements.
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EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*****************************************
9.0 HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS
*****************************************
As mentioned earlier, a complete system has already been furnished
for you. However, for your information, the following is a detailed
list of the minimum equipment needed to run an Electronic Client Link
System.
Computer: IBM or compatible with 2 disk drives, 256kb memory, 1
serial port. Operating system: MSDOS 2.1 or higher.
Monitor: Monochrome or Color.
Modem: Hayes or compatible 300 - 2400 baud.
Phone Line: Single line service compatible with the modem.
A printer is also highly recommended.
*****************************************
10.0 USER REQUIREMENTS
*****************************************
The user of the EZX-TALK software should be familiar with the
following DOS commands:
MD - Make Directory
CD - Change Directory
Time - Show Time
Date - Show Date
Dir - Show Files
Format - Prepare Diskette for use
Copy - Copy files from disks
Type - Write out a text file
File naming conventions
Please refer to the appropriate Disk Operating System manual for more
information on these and other DOS commands.
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EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*****************************************
Appendix A GETTING STARTED
*****************************************
This chapter details the steps necessary to install the EZX-TALK
system on your computer. Prior to this, you should have installed
the computer equipment, and verified that it is operating properly.
Please refer to your Computer Users Manual, and your modem manual.
*** MAKING A SUBDIRECTORY FOR EZX-TALK
The installation procedures here assume that your computer is
equipped with a hard-disk capable of creating Sub-Directories.
Sub-Directories are sections of the disk that are separated from
other sections, allowing you to organize the information stored there
more efficiently.
You must choose a name for the directory. The most likely name is
obviously EZX-TALK.
At the DOS level (you will see C>) type MD \EZX-TALK. Unless an
error message appears, the directory will be created.
If an error message appears, the directory was probably already
created, and you can proceed to the next step.
*** COPYING FILES TO THE SUBDIRECTORY
This section will explain how to copy the EZX-TALK files to the
directory created in the last step.
The computer has 2 or 3 disk drives with designations of Drive A:
(Drive B:) and Drive C:. Drive C: will always be the hard disk and
the others will be floppy disk drives. You will be copying from a
floppy drive to the hard disk.
Step 1. Put the EZX-TALK distribution diskette into the A: drive
and close the door.
Step 2. At the DOS level (C>) type CD \EZX-TALK.
Step 3. Type COPY A:*.* C:
The disk light on Drive A: will go on and you will see a message
like:
Copying EZX-TALK.COM
Copying EZX-TALK.CNF
Copying EZX-TALK.KEY
.
.
.
until all the files have been copied.
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EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
The copy process has been completed. If no error messages resulted,
all the EZX-TALK files have been placed on your EZX-TALK
SubDirectory.
If an error message did appear, likely causes are:
∙ Drive A: door not closed.
∙ Diskette is blank or the wrong one.
∙ Diskette drive is defective.
∙ Diskette is defective or damaged.
Correct the problem and try again.
*****************************************
Appendix B EZX-TALK CONFIGURATION
*****************************************
The EZX-TALK program comes to ready to run, but first it needs to
know the type of equipment it is running on and other important
parameters.
Make sure that the computer is in the EZX-TALK subdirectory.
At the DOS level, type EZXTINST. This will start the configuration
program.
Press [Enter] to start the question and answer process.
EZX-TALK needs to know the following information. Please fill in the
appropriate spaces before answering the questions.
If you do not know an answer to a question, please ask the Technical
Resource Person at your computer store to help you, refer to your
modem manual, or call EZX.
What type of Monitor do you have:______________________
(Choices are Monochrome or Color*)
What Port is the Modem Connected to**:________________
(Choices are 1 or 2)
Is the top speed of your modem 1200 or 2400 Baud? _____
If your modem is not Hayes compatible, what is the modem
initialization string?*** _____________________________
* Machines equipped with a color graphics card and composite monitors
should be specified as Monochrome to get the best text. Compaq
Portables should also be specified as monochrome.
** PORT Refers to the serial communications plug at the back of the
computer. These are designated COM 1 and COM 2. As a rule, if you
have both COM 1 and COM 2 installed on your computer, install the
modem into COM1.
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EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
*** Special Initialization Strings
If you answer No to question 5 below, you will be prompted to input a
specific initialization code string for your mode. We have found that
although most modems say thay are "Hayes" compatible, the have some
special requirements. So, use the recommended initailization string
found in you modem's user manual. At typical initialization string
for a EasyData(tm) 2400 (external) modem looks like this:
ATQ0X4V0E1M1 (use nummeric result codes)
Where the "standard Hayes" initialization string looks like:
ATQV0L1 Again, check your modem manual!
When the configuration program starts, it will ask you questions
similar to questions below. You must respond with the correct
choices or EZX-TALK will not operate properly. Below are examples of
the configuration program prompts and the correct responses.
1. Will EZX-TALK run on a [C]olor or [M]onochrome monitor?
(Correct responses are C or M )
2. Are you running on an IBM AT or Compatible?
(Correct responses are Y or N )
3. What port is the modem in?
(Correct responses are 1 or 2 corresponding to COM 1 or COM 2)
4. Do you have a [1]200 or [2]400 baud modem?
(Correct responses are 1 or 2 )
5. Is it a Hayes compatible modem [Yes] [No] (must be 100% compat.)
You will then be asked if your modem has CD checking.
Try it both ways if you do not know.
6. You will then be prompted for colors if you answered C to #1.
After you have answered the prompts, the program will begin to write
the configuration file EZX-TALK.CNF onto your disk. If you noticed
that one of your responses was incorrect, you may run the EZXTINST
program again. The installation process is complete. The file
EZXTALK.CNF must reside on the same drive and subdirectory as the
EZX-TALK program. A typical EZX-TALK.CNF file follows. It may be
edited with a simple text editor like DOS's EDLIN, or even EZX-WRITE.
MO=CO7146 (Color codes)
PN=1 (Serial Port Number 1 or 2)
ST=1 (Stop Bits)
DA=8 (Startup data bits)
PA=N (Startup parity)
BA=1200 (Startup baud rate)
WA=430 (Timing factor - Do not change!)
PR=ATDT (Dial string)
PO=| (Carriage return character)
MI=ATQV0L1 (Modem initialization string)
DT=45 (Delay time for redial after no carrier or busy)
If for any reason the EZX-TALK.CNF file is erased or moved, run the
configuration program again.
Page 26
EZX-TALK Copyright(c), 1988 EZX Corp. All rights reserved.
************* ORDERING INFORMATION *************
Mail Order To: Information/Customer Service:
1-713-338-2238
EZX Corporation VISA/MasterCard/AMEX Orders Only:
P.O. BOX 58177-TK21 1-800-US-EASY-X ext. TK21
Webster, TX 77598 USA BBS 713-280-8180 (1200/2400 N,8,1)
QUANTITY DESCRIPTION AMOUNT
---------------------------------------------------------------------
___ EZ-FORMS LITE Version E11 Registration........ @ $ 49 ea $ ______
(includes registration, printed manual, 90+
forms, telephone support, and update notices)
___ EZ-FORMS EXECUTIVE Ver. 2.1 Registration...... @ $ 89 ea $ ______
(includes registration, printed manual, 100+
forms, telephone support, and update notices)
___ FORMS COMBO PACK: Over 300 additional user... @ $ 99 set $ ______
modifiable forms for EZFL or EZFX.
Only $79 with purchase.
___ EZX-TALK Ver. 2.1: Quick and easy modem.... @ $ 49 ea. $ ______
************ based communications!
Only $29 with EZFL or EZFX.
___ EZX-WRITE,EZ-SPREADSHEET, EZX-BASE, EZ-COPY.@ $ 49 ea. $ ______
* Registration is for each computer or workstation on which EZX-
TALK, EZ-FORMS EXECUTIVE, EZ-SPREADSHEET, etc. will be used.
Subtotal ______
PACKAGING AND HANDLING: Add $5 in the USA-48.
(Add $10 for 2nd business day, or $20 for next day, USA-48)
(AK, HI, PR, VI, Canada, add $10. $20 all other foreign) ______
(3.5 inch diskettes, add $5.00 per copy, $10 EZFX) ______
(Texas residents please add 8% sales tax) Tax ______
Total $ ______
Payment by:( ) Check ( ) MC ( ) VISA ( ) AM EXP ( ) PO #______
Name: ____________________________________________________________
Company: ____________________________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________
: ____________________________________________________________
: ____________________________________________________________
Day Phone: _________________________ Eve: ___________________________
CARD #: __________________________________ EXP DATE _________________
Signature of Card Holder Only: ______________________________________
THANK YOU FOR YOUR ORDER AND PROMPT PAYMENT.
All pricing, terms, conditions subject to change without notice.
Page 27
