Fritz: All Fritz/All Fritz.zip/All Fritz/FILES/COMMADIO/ZIPCOM.LZH/ZIP.DOC

Text File | 1992-12-18 | 43KB | 831 lines

                                   ZIP.DOC
                                   -------
              Instructions for ZIP - Fast File Transfer Utility
                          version 1.61 (18 Dec 1992)

                             (c)1988-92 E. Meyer


        Requires:  two IBM PC compatible computers with DOS 2.x or above;
                   appropriate serial (null modem) cable.


================================== CONTENTS ==================================

     1. ABOUT ZIP: Brief description; Copyright and Licensing

     2. PREPARING TO USE ZIP
          A. Setting the serial port and speed
          B. Menu vs Command-line mode

     3. TRANSFERRING FILES
          A. Sending files
          B. Receiving files
          C. Selecting files from a group
          D. Backups and overwriting files
          E. Directory, Delete, and Log commands

     4. SERVER MODE
          A. Sending and fetching files
          B. Server Directory, Delete, and Log commands
          C. Comparing directory contents

     5. FURTHER USAGE NOTES
          A. Examples of command-line syntax
          B. Using ZIP in batch files

     6. UTILITY PROGRAMS
          A. Using ZIPDUP to clone ZIP
          B. Using ZIPCFG to change defaults

     7. TECHNICAL INFORMATION
          A. General information
          B. Using ZIP on the HP95LX palmtop
          C. Appropriate serial cables
          D. Error messages
          E. Version history and notes
          F. About the program and author


================================ 1. ABOUT ZIP ================================


     Anyone with two computers probably needs to transfer programs or data
between them regularly... yet if large amounts of data are involved,
exchanging floppy disks quickly grows tedious; and if the disk drives are
incompatible, or a portable computer has none, it won't work at all.  Keeping
track of new or modified files on each computer gets to be a problem, too.

     ZIP is a tiny, fast utility to transfer files between two IBM compatible
computers; it requires no expensive additional hardware, just a simple serial
cable.  It can be used from the DOS command line or a batch file, or run from
an interactive menu.  Ideal for laptop or palmtop computers, it takes about
10k of disk space, and occupies no memory when not in use.  There are good
commercial programs for this purpose, though they typically cost over $100; if
you're willing to find or make your own cable, you can do the same job with
ZIP instead.  ZIP doesn't have all the features of the fancy programs, but it
doesn't consume precious system memory either; it just transfers files when
you need to, as simply as using the COPY command.  It also has options that
make it easy to reconcile directories on both computers.

     ZIP is as fast as a serial (RS232) transfer program can be, and faster
than some free/shareware programs that also claim to operate "at 115200 bps".
ZIP can transfer data up to 6 times faster than an ordinary telecom program
over a serial cable... 48 times faster than typical modem transfer rates.
            Telecom programs: modem       2400 bps            0.3 K/sec
                              cable      19200 bps            2.3 K/sec
                         ZIP: cable     115200 bps     up to 14.1 K/sec!
     On older PCs and slower portables, ZIP will come as close to this
throughput as your computers allow.  (Between an 8MHz XT and 4.77MHz laptop,
it reaches about 10K/sec.)  Of course, disk access also takes time; with any
system, large amounts of data can be sent more quickly using RAMdisks or hard
disks, rather than slow floppy disk drives.  Although ZIP is designed to
operate at very high transmission speeds, it can also be used at slower speeds
in applications that demand this.

     (Note: ZIP does not employ data compression, and has nothing to do with
the new file compression program PKZIP by Phil Katz.)

     Be sure you have all the files which should be included in this package:
              ZIP.DOC      - This documentation file.
              ZIP.COM      - The file transfer program.
              ZIPCFG.COM   - The configuration (customizing) utility.
              ZIPDUP.COM   - The duplication (cloning) utility.
              ORDER.FRM    - Registration/site license order form.


                      COPYRIGHT AND LICENSE INFORMATION

         The ZIP program and documentation are copyright (c)1988-92
         Eric Meyer, all rights reserved worldwide.  They may not be
         circulated in any incomplete or modified form, nor sold for
         profit, without written permission of the author.  The use
         or sale of ZIP is subject to the following terms:

SITE LICENSES.  Any company or institution wishing to use ZIP in the course of
    its business must purchase a SITE LICENSE.  The cost of the license is
    quite modest, and varies according to the number of computers on which ZIP
    may be in use in the workplace:
                         COPIES        COST
                       Up to 20  .....  $50 (US)
                             50  ..... $100
                            100  ..... $150
                   200 and over  ..... $1 per copy
    The purchaser of a site license receives several benefits:
            * A copy of the latest version of ZIP (and other useful
         programs) on disk direct from the author.
            * Support.  You can get help with any questions or
         problems you encounter in using ZIP.  Future upgrades can
         be ordered on disk when desired.
            * No piracy worries.  Your employees may use ZIP at home
         and share it with others at no charge.

PERSONAL USE.  There is no required fee for personal use of ZIP.  However, if
    you like and continue to use ZIP, you are encouraged to register, and help
    support the development of high-quality, affordable software:
                   INDIVIDUAL REGISTRATION .....  $30 (US)
    The user who chooses to register receives several benefits:
            * A copy of the latest version of ZIP (and other useful
         programs) on disk direct from the author.
            * Support.  You can get help with any questions or
         problems you encounter in using ZIP.  Future upgrades can
         be ordered on disk when desired.
            * A document to verify the legality of your personal use
         of ZIP at your workplace as well.

COMMERCIAL SALE.  Any software dealer or library may offer ZIP for sale, as
    long as the price charged for the disk containing ZIP does not exceed US
    $6.  With this single exception, the sale of ZIP, either alone or together
    with other software or hardware, requires a licensing agreement.  Please
    write for terms.

ORDERING AND SOURCES.  Site licenses and individual registrations may be
    ordered directly from the author (see address below), by check or money
    order in US currency; purchase orders are also accepted.
         Credit card orders (VISA,MC,AmEx,Discover), including international,
    may be made through the Public Software Library: phone [phone] or
    [phone], FAX [phone], CompuServe [71355,470].  Mention item
    #10304.  (There is a $5 surcharge for this service.)
         ZIP is distributed widely through "shareware" channels.  Users with a
    modem can download the latest version as the archive file ZIPxxx.ZIP,
    available from the primary distribution point: on CompuServe, in download
    library 4 (DL4) of the IBMCOM forum.
             In addition, ZIP is available on a wide variety of other remote
    systems, and by mail from many good software libraries, including the
    Public Software Library, P.O. Box 35705, Houston TX 77235.  (Disk #1674)


                  Address all correspondence to the author:

            Eric Meyer
         3541 Smuggler Way            CompuServe: [74415,1305]
    Boulder, Colorado  80303  USA       Internet: [e-mail]


              THE CUSTOMARY DISCLAIMER:  You undertake to use ZIP at
         your own risk.  The author does not warrant the suitability
         of ZIP for any particular purpose, and assumes no liability
         for damages of any kind resulting from its use.


========================== 2. PREPARING TO USE ZIP ===========================


     Before you can use ZIP, you will need to have a copy of the same version
of ZIP.COM on both computers, and the correct cable connection between them.
If incompatible disk formats prevent you from getting ZIP.COM itself onto the
second computer to begin with, you can "clone" ZIP with the ZIPDUP utility
(see below).  For more on null modem cables, or if you have an HP95LX palmtop,
see the TECHNICAL INFORMATION section below.


                     A. SETTING THE SERIAL PORT AND SPEED

     IBM-compatible computers have anywhere from one to four serial (RS232)
ports, and on each computer you must tell ZIP which port you have connected
its cable to.  By default ZIP uses the COM1 port.  The standard port addresses
are:                  COM1: 03F8h         COM3: 03E8h
                      COM2: 02F8h         COM4: 02E8h
Some computers (including PS/2s) use different addresses for COM3 and COM4;
nonstandard port addresses can be specified in hexadecimal, but only by
modifying ZIP.COM with the ZIPCFG utility.
     You can select any standard COM port during operation of ZIP:  in menu
mode, just select the choice to modify "P"arameters.  In command-line mode,
specify one of the following options:

              /1-4  = use port COM1-4.

     Data transmission can take place at a wide range of speeds.  ZIP normally
works at the fastest possible speed, 115200 bps, and most users will not need
to change this.  To accommodate certain computers or software environments, it
may be necessary to set a somewhat slower speed.  In fact, ZIP can be slowed
down all the way to 2400 bps, so that it might even operate over a good modem
connection.  In any event, you must have the same rate set on both ends.
     In menu mode, just select the choice to modify "P"arameters.  In command
line mode, specify the option:

              /Bnnnn  = use speed nnnn (BPS)

The allowed speeds "nnnn" are 115200, 57600, 38400, 19200, 9600, 4800, 2400;
each may be abbreviated to as few as two digits ("/B96").  To change your
default setting, use ZIPCFG.
     You will see a note in the ZIP signon message, "Speed=____ Port=____",
giving the port address and speed currently in use.


------------------------ B. MENU vs COMMAND-LINE MODE ------------------------

     Once your cable is connected and you have chosen the correct ports and
speed, you can use ZIP in one of two ways, both of which are described more
fully below:

            1.  MENU-DRIVEN OPERATION.  Simply type "ZIP" on both
       machines.  You will see a menu of choices including sending,
       receiving, or fetching files; listing or comparing
       directories; logging a new directory; deleting files;
       entering server mode; unlinking the server; changing
       parameters; or getting help with options.  Just type the
       highlighted letter of your selection.

            2.  COMMAND-LINE OPERATION.  Any single operation can be
       performed from the DOS command line, by providing the correct
       arguments and options.  For a brief help message, including
       additional options, type "ZIP /?".

     If there is a problem with your cable or port/speed settings, the message
"Ready" will remain on screen; abort and try again.

     ZIP's operation can be interrupted by pressing Escape, ^C, or Ctrl-Break:
          (1) during initial connection attempt (otherwise, ZIP waits
                as long as necessary for connection)
          (2) during file transfer (on receiving end, your keypress
                will not be noticed until the current file is finished)
          (3) at any user prompts.


=========================== 3. TRANSFERRING FILES ============================

                               A. SENDING FILES

     Transferring files between computers with ZIP is as easy as copying them
from one disk to another.  In menu mode, simply select "S"end, and you will be
prompted for the filename(s) and then a directory to send them to.  (For the
current default directory on the other end, just press ENTER.)  For command-
line use, give the filename(s) to send as part of the ZIP command, and if you
want to specify a destination directory, add it as an option in brackets:

              C>zip FILENAME /[DESTDIR]

     In either mode, the "FILENAME" can be a single FILE (including path), or
a GROUP specified by wildcards (eg, *.BAK), or an "@FILE" (see below), or a
LIST of any of these delimited by commas or spaces.  Each item assumes or
continues the same path as the previous one, unless the new one begins with a
drive or root directory.  Thus the list:
              d:\sf\gort, ltrs\*.892, klaatu
refers to files D:\SF\GORT, D:\SF\LTRS\*.892, and D:\SF\LTRS\KLAATU.

     Any other desired options may also follow the filename(s), though only
the selection options /P,N,E,T are valid in menu mode.  Files will appear with
the same filename, in the receiving directory.  Take care not to send two
files with the same name, as one would overwrite the other.
     By the name of each file to be transferred you will see a bar composed of
one "=" sign for each 64k of file size; each will turn into a blinking
asterisk "*", then disappear as the transfer progresses, the last one leaving
a period "." when finished.

     A number of file management and communications utilities can write a list
of filenames selected according to various criteria to a file, or accept the
name of such a file following an "@" sign to process all the names it
contains; ZIP also honors this convention.  You can also create such a file
yourself, with any text editor, inserting the names of files which you may
often want to transfer as a group.  Such an "@FILE" should contain complete
filespecs (with drive and path), separated by spaces and/or carriage returns.
ZIP can then be used to transfer those files.  For example,

     if file "FLIST" contains the names:     c:\work\*.bak
                                             c:\myfile

     then "ZIP @FLIST" will send files C:\WORK\*.BAK and C:\MYFILE.


----------------------------- B. RECEIVING FILES -----------------------------

     In menu mode, simply select "R"eceive, and you will be prompted for the
directory to receive files into.  For command-line use, specify the option:

              /R  = RECEIVE files

and, if you want, a directory to receive files into, in brackets:

              C>zip /r[DESTDIR]

By default, files are received into the current directory.  Files appear with
their original names.  Do not supply a filespec before the /R option; the
sender determines the files to be sent.


---------------------- C. SELECTING FILES FROM A GROUP -----------------------

     If you want to transfer only certain files in a group with ZIP, you can
request that you be prompted to confirm each file individually: you will be
asked to hit a key (Y/N) to determine whether the file is to be sent.  (In
menu mode, you can select "O"ptions for a help message describing the
selective copy operations.)  After the names of files to be transferred, in
either menu or command-line mode, specify the option:

              /P  = PROMPT to confirm files individually

You will see a note in the ZIP signon message, "Option /P", if this option is
in effect.


---------------------- D. BACKUPS AND OVERWRITING FILES ----------------------

     ZIP offers several features that are particulary useful for reconciling
the contents of directories which are duplicated (in whole or part) on both
computers.  By default, ZIP doesn't care what files may already exist on the
receiving end: it will transfer all files specified, whether or not they
overwrite existing ones.  Three options are provided to modify this behavior.
(In menu mode, you can select "O"ptions for a help message describing the
selective copy operations.)  After the names of files to be transferred, in
menu or command-line mode, specify one (or two) of these options:

              /N  = copy NONexisting files only
                       (cannot be used with /E or /T)
              /E  = copy EXISTING files only
              /T  = TIMESTAMP determines files sent

     The /N option will prevent all existing files from being overwritten.
The /T option will allow overwrites only when the new copy has a more recent
time stamp.  The /ET combination is especially useful for selective backup
purposes: it transfers only more recent copies of files that already exist.
     Example: if you want to make the contents of two nearly identical
directories exactly so, do one transfer "*.* /T" each way; or use "*.* /N"
instead if you want differing versions of individual files to remain so.
     These options can be specified independently on either computer -- but
the settings on the sending (or active) end govern each transfer.  You will
see a note in the ZIP signon message, "Option /_", if an option is in effect.


------------------- E. DIRECTORY, DELETE, AND LOG COMMANDS -------------------

     When ZIP is in menu mode, you will see choices for "D"irectory and
d"E"lete, offering simple file maintenance without exiting ZIP.COM.
     The directory function provides an alphabetized file listing for your
reference, and shows the free space left on the disk.  You will be prompted
for the files to list.  If you just hit RETURN, ZIP lists all files (*.*) in
the default directory.
     The delete function prompts for a filespec to delete; as always, a path
and/or wildcards may be included.  It accepts only a single filespec, not a
list of them.  Deletion is immediate; BE CAREFUL, especially when using
wildcards.

     Although you can always type the full path information for any files you
want to look for or transfer, if you're going to be working in a different
directory for a while, it can be more convenient to change ZIP's default
directory.  In menu mode, the "L"og command will let you do this; you will be
prompted for the new drive and/or directory, or you can just hit RETURN to
check the current directory.  Initially, of course, the default is the current
DOS directory.  (The Log command works much like the DOS command CHDIR, except
that ZIP does not actually change the current directory, it simply keeps its
own record of the directory you want to be working in.)


=============================== 4. SERVER MODE ===============================


     It would obviously be easier to transfer files if you could do all the
typing from one keyboard, and "server mode" lets you do just that.  ZIP can
remain on line on one end, ready to obey instructions from the other end
automatically.  To enter server mode: in menu mode, just select the choice for
ser"V"er.  In command line mode, specify the option:

              /S  = SERVER mode

and if you want, a new default directory for ZIP operations in brackets:

              C>zip /S[DFLTDIR]

Otherwise, the default is the current DOS directory.

     ZIP will now wait to receive commands (described below) from the other
computer.  When you are finished, you can press Escape, ^C, or Ctrl-Break to
exit server mode.

     Alternatively, you can give an instruction to terminate server mode from
the other ("active") keyboard.  In menu mode, select the choice for "U"nlink
before quitting.  In command-line mode, specify the option:

              /U  = UNLINK server (after current exchange is complete)

Any request that you make for communication with the server will wait,
displaying the message "Ready", until ZIP is detected running in server mode
on your other computer.


----------------------- A. SENDING AND FETCHING FILES ------------------------

     When one copy of ZIP is running in server mode, it is ready to accept any
files that you transfer to it from the other (active) keyboard; these will be
received on the server end, into any directory specified by the sender, or by
default into the server's current directory.

     You can also ask the server to send files to you.  In menu mode, just
select "F"etch, and you will be prompted for the files to fetch and a
directory to put them in.  In command-line mode, specify the option:

              /F  = FETCH specified files from server

and, if you want, a directory to put the received files in:

              C>zip FILENAME /F[DESTDIR]

Otherwise they will be put in the current directory.

     You must specify the path with the filenames to be fetched, if they are
not to be found in the default directory on the server end.


--------------- B. SERVER DIRECTORY, DELETE, AND LOG COMMANDS ----------------

     If your other computer is running ZIP in server mode, you can also
request a directory from it, delete files on it, or log a new directory on it.
In menu mode, when using the "D"irectory, d"E"lete, or "L"og commands, simply
type a ">" before an argument to indicate that it applies to the server.  This
can be done either alone, or together with a request on the active end:

              Directory: \WORK\*.BAK                active alone
              Delete:    >B:\BACKUP\OLD.FIL         server alone
              Log:       \WORK\*.BAK >B:\BACKUP     combined

As a convenience, since the two computers may have a similar directory
structure, you can also type a quote mark (") to log the same default
directory for the server.

              Log: C:\WORK >"        ...logs C:\WORK on the server, too
              Log: C:\WORK >D:"      ...logs D:\WORK on the server

     For command-line use, you can specify one of the options:

              /D[FILESPEC]  = Directory listing on server
              /K[FILESPEC]  = Kill (delete) file on server
              /L[NEWDIR]    - Log new directory on server

/D alone lists all files "*.*", or it can be followed by a filespec in
brackets, like "/D[\*.BAT]".  /K requires a filespec in brackets.

     Directory and deletion requests accept only a single filespec, not a list
of them.  Deletion is immediate; be careful.


---------------------- C. COMPARING DIRECTORY CONTENTS -----------------------

     If your other computer is running ZIP in server mode, you can also
compare the contents of directories, showing files that appear in one but not
the other, or that exist in different versions.  (This can be used, for
example, as a preview of what files will be transferred if you use the /N or
/T option.)  Common identical files are not shown.
     In menu mode, just select the choice to "C"ompare.  You will be prompted
for the files to compare.  If you just hit RETURN, ZIP compares all files
"*.*" in the default directory on each end.  Type a ">" if you want to specify
a different directory on the server:

          Compare: >\BACKUP           active *.* with server \BACKUP\*.*
          Compare: *.DOC              active *.DOC with server *.DOC
          Compare: *.DOC >\BACKUP     active *.DOC with server \BACKUP\*.DOC

     ZIP will produce two listings: first files on the active end that don't
match up with those on the server, and then vice versa.  If a file appears on
both ends, but in differing versions, it will be flagged with a "+" or "-" to
indicate which appears to be the later (+) or earlier (-) version, according
to the files' timestamps.

     Alternatively, from the command line, you can specify the option:

              /C  = Compare with server

All files "*.*" are compared, unless you provide a filespec.  The option can
be followed by a directory in brackets:

              C>zip FILENAME /c[SRVRDIR]

otherwise, the default directory on the server is assumed.


========================== 5. FURTHER USAGE NOTES ============================

                      A. EXAMPLES OF COMMAND-LINE SYNTAX

    SENDING FILES:

 C>zip b:myfile *.doc              send files B:MYFILE, B:*.DOC

 C>zip *.bak /[b:\recs]            send files *.BAK to directory B:\RECS

 C>zip my.* /2 /p                  send files C:MY.* over COM2, with prompts
                                 to confirm each file individually

 C>zip *.* /n                      send all files which don't already exist
                                 in receiver's default directory

 C>zip a:chapter.* /et             send all files A:CHAPTER.* of which an
                                 older version exists on the receiving end
    RECEIVING FILES:

 C>zip /r /3                       receive files over COM3

 C>zip /r[\temp]                   receive, with default directory C:\TEMP

    ENTERING SERVER MODE:

 C>zip /s2b38                      wait as server, at 38400 bps on COM2

 C>zip /s[d:\]                     wait as server, with default directory D:\

    EXCHANGING FILES WITH SERVER:

 C>zip *.bak /u                    send files *.BAK to server's default
                                 directory, then unlink server

 C>zip b:\recs\my.* /f[\orig]      fetch files MY.* from directory B:\RECS
                                 on server into directory C:\ORIG here

    FILE MANAGEMENT WITH SERVER:

 C>zip /d[\work\*.bak]             show all server's files \WORK\*.BAK

 C>zip /k[junk]                    delete server's file JUNK

 C>zip *.txt /c[\mydir]            compare *.TXT with server's \MYDIR\*.TXT

 C>zip /l[a:\]                     log directory A:\ on server


------------------------ B. USING ZIP IN BATCH FILES -------------------------

     Since every feature can be accessed from the command line, ZIP is easy to
use in batch (.BAT) files, which can be used to automate complex tasks that
you perform frequently.
     If an error occurs during operation in command-line mode, ZIP sets the
DOS error code, so that a batch file can test the ERRORLEVEL to determine
subsequent action.  Normally 0, the value returned will indicate which of the
following errors occurred:
     1 = argument error                   8 = transmission error
     2 = out of memory/too many files    16 = disk error (full?)
     4 = connect error/no server        128 = user abort

     At times you may need to back up the entire contents of a sizable disk,
including several levels of directories.  ZIP is not specifically designed to
do this: it does not create directories while copying, nor does it look for
files within subdirectories.  However, it is easy enough to put the receiver
in Server mode, then run a batch file containing a separate command for each
desired directory (once corresponding directories exist on both ends):
              zip \work\*.* /t[\work]
              zip \work\ed\*.* /t[\work\ed]  ...


============================ 6. UTILITY PROGRAMS =============================

                         A. USING ZIPDUP TO CLONE ZIP

     ZIP comes with a utility program, ZIPDUP, to make it easier to get a copy
of ZIP.COM onto another computer.  If you can't exchange disks between your
computers, ZIPDUP gives you a way to duplicate or "clone" ZIP onto the second
computer over the serial cable.  This is a feature most people need only once,
so it is not part of ZIP itself.  ZIPDUP will duplicate any version of ZIP
(indeed, it will duplicate any file, though it's slow and cumbersome compared
to ZIP itself).  To clone ZIP with ZIPDUP:

     1.  Connect the cable to the desired serial port on each computer.  You
must use COM1 or COM2 only; and the cable must have the DTR lines connected,
as well as the data lines -- see cabling diagram under TECHNICAL INFORMATION
below -- or ZIPDUP will not work.  (In this event, you'll need to have a
telecom program running on both computers, to transfer ZIP.COM via some
protocol like XMODEM.)

     2.  Set up the receiving end:  Make sure the MSDOS utilities DEBUG and
MODE are available (either in the current directory or in your PATH); you will
have to use MODE, and ZIPDUP requires DEBUG.
     Be certain that the last character of your DOS prompt is ">".  (Yes, this
actually matters!)  If in doubt, type the command:
              PROMPT $P$G
     Then prepare to receive data by typing these two commands:
              MODE COM#:96,N,8,1     ("#" = 1 or 2 only)
              CTTY COM#
The CTTY command gives control to the sending computer, via the COM# port.
The receiving system will seem to "lock up", ignoring any keyboard input.

     3.  Now, on the sending end, to duplicate your copy of ZIP.COM, type:
              ZIPDUP ZIP.COM
(Actually, you can omit the filename if it is "ZIP.COM"; otherwise, type it.)
     You will be asked to specify the COM port (again, 1 or 2 only) that the
cable is connected to; if the connection can be made, the transfer will
proceed.  When ZIPDUP is finished, you will find a duplicate copy of ZIP.COM
in the current directory on the receiving computer.  You can transfer other
files the same way, but it's easier and faster now to use ZIP itself!


--------------------- B. USING ZIPCFG TO CHANGE DEFAULTS ---------------------

     A second utility, ZIPCFG, allows you to tailor ZIP to your requirements.
Normally, unless you've instructed it otherwise (via command-line options or
menu choices), ZIP assumes its built-in "defaults" of 115200 bps, port COM1.
You can, however, configure your copy of ZIP.COM to change these defaults as
you like; just type:
              ZIPCFG ZIP.COM
(Actually, you can omit the filename if it is "ZIP.COM"; otherwise, type it.)

     To change your defaults, select "Edit" from the ZIPCFG menu, make
changes, then select "Save"; to restore the original settings, select
"Restore".  To exit without saving changes, select "Quit".

     The "Edit" procedure takes you through a sequence of settings you can
change.  For the port you may enter simply "COM1" through "COM4", or any other
specific hexadecimal address required by your hardware ("03F0", etc).  For the
speed you must choose by letter from the allowed values.

     There is also a setting to force 40-column display width.  Normally this
is set to "No"; you will see "Width=AUTO", and ZIP adapts itself to the
current video mode (40/80 columns).

     Finally, ZIPCFG offers you a choice of color output (via the IBMPC BIOS)
or standard DOS output.  You might want to select DOS output if color output
does not display correctly on your video system, or if you will want to
redirect output from ZIP to a file or device (color output does not redirect).
     If you select color, ZIPCFG displays a palette and offers you a choice of
text colors.  ZIP uses three different colors: a "message" color, a "hilight"
color for contrast, and an "active" color (during file transfer activity).
Each is specified by an "attribute byte" consisting of two hex digits, for a
background and foreground color.  ("17" = "1", blue background, & "7", white
text.)  The color digits are:
         0 = BLACK   4 = red       8 = GREY           C = bright red
         1 = blue    5 = magenta   9 = bright blue    D = bright magenta
         2 = green   6 = brown     A = bright green   E = yellow
         3 = cyan    7 = WHITE     B = bright cyan    F = BRIGHT WHITE
     The palette will include 128 colors from 00-7F.  Use of colors 8-F as
background (80-FF) is also possible but not recommended, since on most systems
this produces blinking video.  Some colors may be invisible or indistinguish-
able on monochrome screens, though all MDA systems can display black, white
and bright white (which are the default colors), and in some cases grey also.

     Please DO NOT distribute modified copies of ZIP.COM; this could confuse
other users.  They are for your personal use only.  (ZIPCFG includes an option
to restore the original default values.)


========================== 7. TECHNICAL INFORMATION ==========================

                            A. GENERAL INFORMATION

     ZIP requires at least 96k of memory to run.  Like most communications
programs, ZIP does full CRC (Cyclic Redundancy checksum) verification on the
data to guarantee accurate transfer.  ZIP uses its own transfer protocol,
which is not compatible with other programs.  Be sure to use the SAME version
of ZIP on both ends: the transfer protocol may have changed.  Do not disturb
the cable when ZIP is running, as it will be unable to resume its task; you
will have to abort the program and try again.

     ZIP does not use interrupts, so it will not conflict with the IRQ usage
of other hardware or software; but do not use ZIP while the specific serial
port chosen is being used by another program.

     Using any communications software in a multitasking environment often
requires special precautions.  ZIP, in particular, may need to be given a
"non-swappable" or "foreground-operation" status, so that other tasks will not
interfere with its operation.  (Under DesqView, ZIP will disable multitasking
itself.  Under Windows, you must create a PIF file and give ZIP both
background and foreground priority.)  You may also need to set a slower speed
for ZIP to work reliably.

     ZIP works well on the vast majority of systems.  If you experience
unresolvable conflicts with other memory-resident software, such as background
processes or disk caches, do not use ZIP when that software is in operation.


--------------------- B. USING ZIP ON THE HP95LX PALMTOP ---------------------

     The Hewlett-Packard 95LX palmtop computer is "nearly" IBM-compatible; ZIP
will work on it, but there are some special considerations.
     The HP95LX serial port does not support DTR, so ZIPDUP will not work on
it; instead, to transfer ZIP.COM to the 95LX, you must use the 95LX's internal
software.  You can purchase the HP Connectivity Pack, which includes a cable,
or you can buy the serial cable (#HP82222A) separately and use the 95LX COMM
utility together with any PC communication program to transfer ZIP.COM via
KERMIT or XMODEM protocol at 19200 bps.
     ZIP automatically detects the 95LX and sets itself for the COM1 port and
40 column screen.  Thus you can use the same copy of ZIP.COM on your 95LX as
on your PC; modification with ZIPCFG is not needed.
     ZIP can be run either from the Filer (highlight and press F4, Run) or
from the DOS system prompt.  ZIP automatically powers up the serial port in
WIRE mode, and turns it off again upon exit to conserve batteries, so use of
the SERCTL command is not necessary.


------------------------ C. APPROPRIATE SERIAL CABLES ------------------------

     SERIAL NULL MODEM CABLES, in various combinations of 9- and 25-pin
connectors, are available from a wide variety of sources, and a simple cable
in the configuration you need (for example, DB9 to DB25 female) should cost
less than $10 at Radio Shack or many computer stores.  Double-headed null
modem cables (both 9 and 25 pin on each end) are also made, and would be ideal
for use with ZIP; I am told that a good source for these is:
     DALCO, 233 Pioneer Blvd, Springboro OH 45066; [phone]

     If you're building or shopping for a cable, you need a "null modem"
cable, meaning the transmit and receive data lines should be crossed, and the
signal ground connected straight through.  (The pin numbers depend on whether
you have a small DB9 or large DB25 connector, see figure.)  No other
connections should be needed; ZIP uses no hardware handshaking lines.  (NOTE:
ZIPDUP does require the DTR connections between pins 20/4 and 6.)

        |--COMPUTER 1--|         |--COMPUTER 2--|
         DB9  or   DB25           DB25  or   DB9
      pin 2 - - - - 3 - - - - - - - 2 - - - - 3   \ transmit &
          3 - - - - 2 - - - - - - - 3 - - - - 2   / receive data
          5 - - - - 7 - - - - - - - 7 - - - - 5   - signal ground

      pin 4 - - - - 20  - - - - - - 6 - - - - 6 * \
          6 - - - - 6 - - - - - - - 20  - - - 4 *  \handshaking (optional)
          7 - - - - 4 - - - - - - - 5 - - - - 8    /(* required for ZIPDUP)
          8 - - - - 5 - - - - - - - 4 - - - - 7   /

Actually, any serial cable that doesn't work by itself, should work with a
"null modem adapter" attached.  If available, use a well shielded cable; high
speed transmissions can be especially susceptible to RF interference.


----------------------------- D. ERROR MESSAGES ------------------------------

     <Argument error>  invalid command-line argument(s).
<Insufficient memory>  ZIP requires a minimum of 94k free RAM.
      <Connect error>  can't connect -- bad cable? wrong version?
          <No server>  function requires server mode on other computer.
     <Too many files>  global filespec (eg *.*) includes over 1024 files.
<Error reading @file>  @file nested or too large to read.
 <Conflict with NAME>  name conflicts with a directory or read/only file.
     <Error deleting>  specified file didn't exist, was read/only, etc.
         <Disk error>  trouble reading or writing to disk.  (Disk full?)
            <Aborted>  you pressed Esc/^C/Ctrl-Break.
              <Error>  communication error; or, unrecoverable error.


------------------------ E. VERSION HISTORY AND NOTES ------------------------


     Users of earlier versions should note the following changes in operation.

     NEW IN ZIP 1.61:  The handling of directories to put files into has been
made simpler and more consistent:
     (1)  You can always specify a destination directory when sending files;
this no longer requires the receiver to be in server mode.
     (2)  When sending or fetching files, ZIP now prompts for a destination
only in menu mode.  Thus, in command line operation, if you want to specify a
destination, you must use the "[directory]" option; conversely, there is no
longer a need to specify a null option "[]" in a batch file to avoid the
prompt when the default directory is intended.

     NEW IN ZIP 1.6:  The server's default directory, which was formerly set
only with the command option /S[dir], and affected only receipt of files by
the server, can now also be changed from either end with the Log command, and
it affects all the server's operations: directory listings, file deletion, and
fetching files from the server as well.
     Also, the delete command, which formerly worked only on a single
filename, now accepts wildcards ("?" and "*") to delete a group of files at
once.  Always use caution when deleting files.


ZIP 1.0  (Apr88) - initial release.
    1.1  (Apr88) - improved protocol; wildcard transfers; receive directory
                  option; original file time/date preserved.
    1.2  (May88) - improved error handling; can use COM3,4; minor fixes.
    1.21 (May88) - slower speed options; fixed bug in initializing ports.
    1.22 (Aug88) - improved protocol; fixed bug in deleting temp file.
    1.23 (Jan89) - menu-driven operation; detects disk-full errors.
    1.3  (Apr89) - selective copy options /P,N,E,T; server mode, fetch;
                  file directory; internal improvements.
    1.4  (Sep89) - improved protocol; Delete function; directory shows
                  free space; ZIPCFG utility; small improvements.
    1.41 (Nov89) - DesqView aware; multiple file arguments.
    1.42 (Feb90) - minor improvements; ZIPDUP utility.
    1.43 (Mar90) - simplified multiple argument syntax.
    1.44 (Aug90) - protocol modified for use in network environments.
    1.45 (Mar91) - 4800, 2400bps added; operation at slow speeds improved.
    1.5  (Aug91) - unlink function; options /B,U,?; sets ERRORLEVEL;
                  recovers from cable disruption; minor improvements.
    1.51 (Jan92) - "@FLIST" ability; color output; 40-col operation.
    1.52 (Jun92) - options /D,K; autoconfigures for HP95LX.
    1.6  (Nov92) - Compare, Log commands; /C option; delete accepts wildcards;
                  default directory affects all operations consistently.
    1.61 (Dec92) - new /L option; minor fixes.


---------------------- F. ABOUT THE PROGRAM AND AUTHOR -----------------------


     As of Fall 1992, ZIP has been well reviewed in numerous computer
newsletters, and Bantam Books has requested permission to include it on disk
with the next edition of "DOS Power Tools 6.0".  ZIP has already been included
on the HP Palmtop Paper's subscriber disk for HP95LX users, and on disk with
"The Little Laptop Book" by Steve Cummings, published by Peachpit Press.

         "lightning fast and simple to learn... simply dazzling...
         ZIP provides the fastest file transfer between PC's using
         the tiniest amount of disk space...  a simple, lean, and
         very effective program, not to mention the fastest of all
         the programs we looked at for this review."
                         -- Bil. Alvernaz, Quantum PC Report, June 1992


     Eric Meyer has also written the VDE editor/word processor and a number of
other utilities for IBM PC compatibles.  He holds an A.B. in physics and a
Ph.D. in history and philosophy of science, and has taught at the Universities
of Indiana, Oklahoma, and Colorado.  A longtime advocate of microcomputers, he
has done programming in HP-41, Z80 assembler, BASIC, FORTRAN, LISP, C, and
APL; lately he has been working mostly in 8086 assembler.  In a period of
escalating software complexity and prices, he still believes that useful,
inexpensive software should remain available to computer users worldwide.


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