Amiga Plus 1995 #2/Amiga Plus CD - 1995 - No. 2.iso/internet/faq/englisch/comp.sys.cbm

Text File | 1995-04-11 | 166.8 KB | 4,587 lines

Archive-name: cbm-main-faq.2.2.p1
Comp-answers-archive-name: commodore/main-faq/part1
News-answers-archive-name: commodore/main-faq/part1
Comp-sys-cbm-archive-name: main-faq/part1
Version: 2.2
Last-modified: 1995/3/6


  Disclaimer: This file is being maintained by Jim Brain
  ([e-mail]).  It is composed of information gleaned from many
  authors of articles in comp.sys.cbm, too many to list here.  All the authors
  have either directly or indirectly given their consent to use their work in
  this FAQ.  All of the information in this file has been gathered and checked
  if possible for errors, but I cannot guarantee the correctness of any
  statement in this file.  If in doubt, please bring up the subject in
  comp.sys.cbm.

  If you have suggestions, comments, or criticisms, please let Jim Brain
  know by sending electronic mail to [e-mail].  Keep in mind that
  new questions appear on a daily basis, so there is a finite time between a
  new question appearing in comp.sys.cbm, and its inclusion in this file.

  The latest version of this file may be obtained from the following ftp
  sites:

  ccnga.uwaterloo.ca in /pub/cbm/comp.sys.cbm/cbm-main-faq.2.2
  ftp.funet.fi in /pub/cbm/faq/cbm-main-faq.2.2.gz
  ftp.csv.warwick.ac.uk in /tmp/c64/cbm-main-faq.2.2
  rtfm.mit.edu in /pub/usenet/comp.sys.cbm/main-faq/part*
               in /pub/usenet/news.answers/commodore/main-faq/part*
               in /pub/usenet/comp.answers/commodore/main-faq/part*

  and from the following World Wide Web sites:

+ http://www.msen.com/~brain/faqhome.html

+ If you do not have Internet access, the FAQ is available from the
+ COMMODORE CEE BBS [phone]
+ FIDONET address: 1:203/999

  See section 5.4 for directions on how to download the FAQ via ftp.
  If you do not have access to ftp, you can send mail to
| [e-mail] with the first 4 lines of the message containing:

  send /usenet/comp.sys.cbm/main-faq/part1
  send /usenet/comp.sys.cbm/main-faq/part2
  send /usenet/comp.sys.cbm/main-faq/part3
  send /usenet/comp.sys.cbm/main-faq/part4

+ Alternately, you can send mail to [e-mail] with the following
+ in the subject line:

+ FGET: cbm-main-faq.2.2.p1

+ You can request all 4 parts by mailing 4 messages with the appropriate
+ request in each subject.

  This file is posted to the groups comp.sys.cbm, news.answers, and
  comp.answers twice every month around the 5th and the 20th of the month.

  _Notes for this release_:
  -----------------------

+ I know there are still some errors, so I would appreciate knowing about
+ them.

  I would also like to add a section on Amateur Radio.  Anyone who wants to
  write it, please go ahead.

  I would also like to add a section for the FidoNet people.  .....

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

  Lines preceded with a '|" have been modified since the last version of this
  file was posted.  Lines preceded by a '+' have been added since the last
  version was posted.

  If readers of this FAQ wish to make changes, please precede formatted lines
  sent to me with a 'C' so that I can see the changes even if you enclose
  header and trailer text to show context.

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


  Table of Contents
  -----------------

   1. Introduction

   2. Net Etiquette
   2.1.  What news groups cater to Commodore 8-bit machines?
   2.2.  What is a FAQ?
   2.3.  What types of discussions belong in comp.sys.cbm?
   2.4.  How do I post in comp.sys.cbm?

   3. Overview
   3.1.  Do people still use Commodore 8-bit machines?
   3.2.  What do people do with Commodore 8-bit machines?
   3.3.  What Commodore 8-bit machines are most widely used?
   3.4.  What is the economic status of Commodore?

   4. Starting Out
   4.1.  How many Commodore machines are there?
   4.2.  Which ones does comp.sys.cbm discuss regularly?
   4.3.  Where do I purchase Commodore Equipment and Software?
   4.4.  Where do I get equipment serviced?
+  4.5.  Are there other places to talk Commodore?
+  4.6.  Are there Commodore Users on the World Wide Web?

   5. Connecting Up
   5.1.  How do I connect my computer to the outside world?
   5.2.  What hardware do I need?
   5.3.  What kinds of terminal programs exist?
   5.4.  How do I download?  What does transfer protocol mean?
   5.5.  PETSCII vs. ASCII?
   5.6.  Where can I find Commodore programs?
   5.7.  What else is available online?
   5.8.  What is a file extension, and what do they stand for?
   5.9.  What are mailing lists and how do I join one?
   5.10. Are there other ways to transfer files?
   5.11. How do I contact people on Compuserve, Genie, etc.?

   6. Publications
   6.1.  What paper publications are available?
   6.2.  What is a Disk Magazine?  Where do I find them?
   6.3.  What is an Online Magazine?  Where do I find them?

   7. Exchanging Data
   7.1.  Can I read IBM(tm) disks?
   7.2.  Can my IBM(tm) computer read Commodore disks?
   7.3.  Are there other ways to exchange data between computers?

   8. Operating Systems
   8.1.  What Operating Systems are available?
   8.2.  What is GEOS?
   8.3.  What is UNIX?
   8.4.  What is CP/M

   9. Enhancements
   9.1.  How do I increase my disk drive's transfer speed?
   9.2.  How do I expand my disk drive's capacity?
   9.3.  How do I expand my computer's RAM capacity?
   9.4.  How do I increase my computer's speed?
   9.5.  How do I increase my computer screen's resolution?
   9.6.  How do I increase my computer's serial transfer speed?
   9.7.  How do I increase my computer's sound quality?
   9.8.  How do I hook a Hayes(tm) compatible modem to my Commodore computer?
   9.9.  What other ways can I expand my Commodore computer?

  10. Emulators
  10.1.  What is an emulator?
  10.2.  What platforms do 64 emulators exist on?
  10.3.  What platforms do 128 emulators exist on?
  10.4.  Are any other Commodore computers emulated?

  11. Demonstrations
  11.1.  Just what is a demonstration, or demo?
  11.2.  What does NTSC and PAL mean?
  11.3.  Where do I get demos?
  11.4.  What is a demo competition?
  11.5   What does FLI, DYCP, etc. mean?

  12. Troubleshooting
  12.1.  What do I do for my ill disk drive?
  12.2.  What do I do for my ill computer?
  12.3.  What do I do for my ill keyboard?
+ 12.4.  What does this IC number mean?

  13. Miscellaneous
+ 13.1.  How can you alter which side a 1571 reads from?
+ 13.2.  Can I get my 1581 drive to change its device number on startup?
+ 13.3.  How can I change my drive devince number through software?
+ 13.4.  How do I transform a BASIC program to a text file?
+ 13.5.  How do I transform a text file into a BASIC program?
+ 13.6.  How do I format a Commodore disk?
+ 13.7.  How fast does a Commodore 64 run?

  14. Credits

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


   1. Introduction

  Welcome to the comp.sys.cbm "Frequently Asked Questions" (FAQ) file.
  Many news groups maintain a FAQ file which is posted monthly, and
  is a repository for general interest and common information that many
  readers of the news group, or new readers of the news group, might be
  interested in.

  I would like to keep programming information in this FAQ file to a minimum;
  otherwise, it could balloon out of control.  For those interested in
  programming, see Section 6, Publications.


   2. Net Etiquette

   2.1.  What news groups cater to Commodore 8-bit machines?

  The first thing to discuss here is the dividing line between Commodore
  models.  All Commodore computers up to, but not including, the Commodore
  Amiga or the Commodore line of IBM PC Compatible computers, are
  discussed in comp.sys.cbm, which is what this FAQ covers.  The Amiga line
  of computers is covered in the separate newsgroups comp.sys.amiga.*,
  where the '*' indicates that there are a number of groups that match that
  name. The IBM PC Compatible computers are discussed in comp.sys.ibm-pc.*.
  This FAQ is concerned primarily with the newsgroup comp.sys.cbm
  and its associated binary distribution newsgroup comp.binaries.cbm.

+ The comp.binaries.cbm newsgroup, as stated above, is the binary
+ distribution couterpart to comp.sys.cbm.  Unlike the comp.sys.cbm
+ newsgroup, the comp.binaries.cbm newsgroup is moderated, and the moderator
+ is Mike Miller ([e-mail]).  If you have a favorite program you
+ wish to put up for distribution, please download and read the
+ comp.binaries.cbm FAQ (posted in its respective group).  It will detail how
+ to submit files for posting and what forms files must be submitted in.

  If you are in Germany, there are at least three German Commodore newsgroups
  available.  One is zer.z-netz.rechner.c64+c128.allgemein, which is a
  german version of comp.sys.cbm. "allgemein" = general.  Another is
  zer.z-netz.rechner.c64+c128.binaer, which parallels the function of
  of comp.binaries.cbm. "binaer" = "binary".  The third is zer.t-netz.c64,
  which is a general discussion group for the c64 computer.  It has the
  description 'Der am weitesten verbreitete Rechner', which means "The most
  widely used/most popular computer."


   2.2.  What is a FAQ?

  FAQ is short for Frequently Asked Questions.  Most newsgroups have such a
  file for the aid of newcomers.  During the course of a newsgroups life,
  some questions begin to be get asked repeatedly.  These frequently asked
  questions are answered in the FAQ, which means that new readers should
  grab a copy of this file before asking any questions.  Experienced readers
  are encouraged to glance over the FAQ every so often to check for errors
  and to possibly catch up on details of questions.


   2.3.  What types of discussions belong in comp.sys.cbm?

  Obviously, any discussions relating to all Commodore machines prior to the
  Commodore Amiga line.  These machines are commonly referred to a the
  Commodore 8-bit line, whereas the Amiga line is not 8-bit.  Please make
  sure any question you intend on posting is not already answered in this
  FAQ.  Also, when posting a troubleshooting question about inoperative
  equipment, please give as much detail as possible.  Be considerate of
  others in the group and keep questions not pertaining to some aspect of
  Commodore 8-bit machines and peripherals out of comp.sys.cbm.  The group
  does realize, however, that a large percentage of Commodore 8-bit owners
  also own another computer system and might have questions about
  interfacing or emulations.  Just use your own good judgement.


   2.4.  How do I post in comp.sys.cbm?

  You first need to access the newsgroup comp.sys.cbm through the use of
  newsreader.  There are many available in UNIX with names like rn, nn, tin,
  and trn.  I can't begin to tell you what command each uses to construct
  a posting, but your machine administrator should be able to tell you.
  All posts should contains relevant Summary and Keyword info, as well as
  a descriptive title.  If you are posting a followup to an existing article,
  and are quoting the article, please only quote the relevant portions of the
  existing article.

+ If you find that you cannot post to a newsgroup via your newsreader, but do
+ have Internet electronic mail capabilities, you can post to the newsgroups
+ via e-mail.  For example, to posts a message to COMP.SYS.CBM, simply mail the
+ message to either [e-mail] or [e-mail].
+ It is probably best to use the U of Texas address, since the other is an
+ anonymous posting service, so people won't know who originated the post.
+ Such disguises are unnecessary in the CBM newsgroups.


   3. Overview

   3.1.  Do people still use Commodore 8-bit machines?

  Yes, people still do.  Newer machines may have appeared and taken over the
  corporate world, but the Commodore 8-bit machines live on.


   3.2.  What do people do with Commodore 8-bit machines?

  People use their machines for very different purposes:

        Game Console.
        Home Computer.
        Experimentor's machine.
        Small Business Computer.

  No matter what purpose they use them for, they use them because there is a
  wealth of programs available for the Commodore computer systems.  The
  Commodore line of computers has a seemingly endless supply of quality
  programs available for it, and more are being created daily.


   3.3.  What Commodore 8-bit machines are most widely used?

  Well, it is a fact that all types of Commodore 8-bit computers are still
  in use, but the following machines get the most use:

        Commodore 64 (include SX64, DX64, and PET64)
        Commodore 128 (includes 128D and Euro 128D)

  The following systems manufactured by Commodore still have a devout
  following:

        Commodore VIC-20
        Commodore PET series
        Commodore Plus 4 and 16
        Commodore C65

  The Commodore 65 is a recent addition and is the result of a liquidation of
  some ALPHA stage test machines.  A number of people have purchased these
  test units, and they have a FAQ devoted just to this machine.  The C65
  faq is located in the same directory as this file under the name
| cbm-c65-faq.2.0.  The Commodore 65 FAQ is maintained by Russell Alphey and a
| copy of this file can be obtained from him at [e-mail].
  In spite of rumors, CMD does not have any intenetions of acquiring the
  rights to manufacture the C65.

| If you own a Commodore C65, the following person is compiling a list of
  people who own them.

  Robin Harbon
  542 West Donald Street.
  Thunder Bay, Ontario, P7E 5Y6
  Canada

+ If you currently use a PET series Commodore computer or just want to know
+ more about them, one person is trying to start a magazine devoted to these
+ machine.  For more information or to submit articles for the magazine,
+ please get in touch with:

+ Mark J. Kingsbury
+ 25 Latta
+ Battle Creek, MI  49017
+ [e-mail]


  3.4.  What is the economic status of Commodore?

  On April 29, 1994, Commodore International announced that it had been unable
  to renegotiate terms of outstanding loans and were closing down the
  business.  In the days following, numerous rumors as to what the somewhat
| tersely worded statement meant have circulated.  The following information
+ has been passed on to me from multiple sources, and I have condensed the
| content for sake of brevity.

  Commodore US has been slated for liquidation, However, according to Gilles
  Bourdin, calls to Commodore Germany determined that this will not impact the
  european operations. Commodore US, France, Spain, and Belgium were
  liquidated for various reasons (non-rentable subsidiary, no chance for
| profit, etc).  It is hoped that the names Commodore and Amiga will be
| retained after the liquidations is complete, but that is not certain.
| As of November, the two final bidders on the assets of Commodore are
| CEI (A large Florida, US, distributor of Commodore equipment), and
| Commodore UK.  As of November 7, 1994, the final sale has been put off
| once again.  The time element has been attributed to the complexity of
| the Commodore Empire and its holdings, and the uneasiness of the
| American creditors on the Bahamian bankruptcy proceedings (Commodore
| is incorporated in the Bahamas).

  Of course, since Commodore US hasn't served the Commodore 8-bit community
  for quite some time, the main question we need to know the answer to is:

| Is Commodore Semiconductor Group part of Commodore US?  If so, will it be
  liquidated along with CBM US? CSG is the only source for SID/VIC/CIA chips.
  If it is liquidated, will the new company continue to produce the chips that
  many use as replacement parts under some licensing agreement with Commodore?


   4. Starting Out

   4.1.  How many Commodore machines are there?

  I am glad you asked!  I have compiled a list of all known Commodore
  computers and peripherals, including the CBM PC Clones and the Amigas,
  which is much too large to put in this FAQ.   You can get it by e-mailing
  [e-mail] with the Subject: line of "Commodore Products List", or
  look for the file called cbmmodel.txt in the same directories as the
  FAQ is kept.


   4.2.  Which ones does comp.sys.cbm discuss regularly?

  Although comp.sys.cbm discusses all Commodore 8-bit machines at times,
  the C64 and C128 get most of the attention.

   4.3.  Where do I purchase Commodore Equipment and Software?

  Commodore no longer manufactures Commodore 8-bit computers in the U.S.A.
  They may still be made in Europe, but the likelihood is small.
  Comp.sys.cbm has regular postings from people wanting to sell pieces of
  Commodore equipment, so your best bet is to ask in the group and then check
  back for postings.

  In Germany, there are a number of shops which still sell factory new
  Commodore 64 and Commodore 128 computers.

  Commodore also no longer manufactures software for the Commodore 8-bit line.
  However, many companies still sell software for the Commodore line.

  A number of third parties still support the Commodore 8-bit line. They are
  listed below with a sampling of their products:

  Creative Micro Designs, Incorporated. (CMD)
  15 Benton Drive
  P.O. Box 646
  East Longmeadow, MA  01028-0646
  [phone] (Orders only)
  [phone] (Information)
  [phone] (Fascimile)
  [e-mail] (Contact)
  CMD Hard Drives, Floppy Drives, GEOS Software, JiffyDOS, RAMLink, Games,
  SID Symphony, IEEE Flash!, Printer Adaptors, Books, Productivity, MIDI SW.
+ CMD now does some repair work.  Contact CMD for information.

  CMD Direkt (CMD Europe)
  Postfach 58, A-6410
  Telfs, Austria
  0043-5262-66080 (Voice)
  0043-5262-64040 (Fascimile)

  Plus Electronics (CMD Germany)
  Postfach 100 263, D-30198
  Seelze, Germany
  05137-50477 (Voice)
  05137-91376 (Fascimile)

  Sandinges Import and Data (CMD Sweden)
  Norsbergvagen 8-B, S-302 30
  Halmstad, Sweden
  351-22164 (Voice)

  Novo Computers (CMD Australia)
  P.O. Box 237
  Mayfield, NSW 2304, Australia
  049-602-082 (Voice)

  Exceldata (CMD Australia)
  P.O. Box 572
  Marrickville, NSW, 2204, Australia
  02-550-0727 (Voice)
  02-558-1884 (Fascimile)

  Software Support International
  2700 N.E. Andresen Road Suite A-10
  Vancouver, WA 98661
  [phone] (Orders Only)
  [phone] (Information)
  [phone] (Information)
  [phone] (Fascimile)
  1750 Clone, Miscellaneous Software and Hardware.

  Software Hut
  2534 S Broad Street
  Philadelphia, PA 19145
  [phone] (Orders only)
  [phone] (Information)
  [phone] (Fascimile)
  Miscellaneous Software and Hardware.

  SOGWAP Software
  115 Bellmont Road
  Decatur, IN 46733
  [phone]
  Big Blue Reader, and Bible Search Software

  The FGM Connection
  P.O. Box 2206
  Roseburg, OR 97470
  [phone] (Information)
  Fun Graphics Machine Software, printing/ publishing utility

  Mad Man Software
  The Enterprise Center
  1400 E. College Drive
  Cheyenne, WY 82007-3298
+ Supply the C-Kit94 compression program.

  Horse Feathers Graphics
  N. 27310 Short Road
  Deer Park, WA 99006-9712
  Western Graphics for Print Shop, Professional quality

  Busy Bee Software
  P.O. Box 2959
  Lompoc, CA 93438
  [phone]
  The Write Stuff 64/128 wordprocessing software

  Brown Boxes, Inc.
  26 Concord Road
  Bedford, MA 01730
  [phone]
  Quick Brown Box Battery Backed Memory cartridges for the C64/128

  Performance Peripherals, Inc.
  5 Upper Loudon Road
  Loudonville, NY 12211
  [phone]
  Battery Backed Ram expansion units. Cheap.

  Commodore Country
  1420 Country Road 914
  Burleson, TX 76028
  [phone] (Orders only)
  [phone] (Information)
  ?

  Living Proof, Ltd
  P.O. Box 80714
  Minneapolis, MN 55408-8714
  I paint software for the C128

  The Landmark Series
  New Horizon Software
  2253 N. Kansas Avenue
  Springfield, MO 65803
  Geos desktop replacement and other software

  Antigrav Toolkit
  P.O. Box 1074
  Cambridge, MA 02142
  KeyDOS ROM version 2 for the C128

  Creative Pixels, Ltd.
  P.O. Box 502
  Library, PA  15129
  "The Adventures of Eric Hawthorne, P.I." action/strategy game.

  Micro Storm Software
  P.O. Box 1086
  Sidney, MT 59270
  Public Domain and Shareware software

  8-Bit
  P.O. Box 542
  Lindenhurst, NY 11757-0542
  [phone] (Orders)
  Public Domain and Commercial Software

  Commodore Connection
  127 North Sante Fe Avenue #C
  Vista, CA  92804-5401
  [phone] (Information/Orders)
  Michael Hendren (Contact)
  Miscellaneous software and hardware.

  64 Disk Connection
  4291 Holland Road, Suite 562
  Virginia Beach, VA  23452
  Large selection of public domain and shareware software.

  Softside Supply
  c/o Dale Sidebottom
  1001 Estate Circle
  Georgetown, IN  47122
  GEOS Applications

  US Commodore Support
  c/o Ron Snyder
  1192 South nome Street Suite B
  Aurora, CO  80012
  [phone] (Information)
  Sells used Hardware and software. A full price list is available on
  ccnga.uwaterloo.ca in /pub/cbm/comp.sys.cbm/us.cbm-list.

  John Green
  365 Smith Street
  Freeport, NY  11520
  Sells "The Castle of Kraisar", a role playing game.

  Home-Spun Software
  P.O. box 1064DH
  Estero, FL  33928
  Unusual software, Foreign utilities.

  Computer Bargain Store
  3366 South 2300 East
  Salt Lake City, UT  84109
  [phone] (Information: call only between 4-6 PM Mountain Time)
  New and like-new C128D computers.

  Tech Star Computer Center
  7036 188th South
  Kent, WA  98032
  [phone] (Information/Orders)
  Refurbished hardware and new software.

  Suzart
  1529 Longmont Avenue
  Boise, ID 83706-3731
  Fonts for GEOS.

  Mega-Disk Software
  P.O. Box 1554
  Ellensburg, WA  98926-1554
  Joshua Brandt (Contact)
  [e-mail] (Internet contact)
  Mega-Disk software specializes in public domain and shareware on sets of
  3.5" disk for the C-64 with a 1581, CMD FD-2000, or CMD FD-4000.
  Each set has over 2.5 Megs of files and cost $10 to $20.
  They currently have 3 different sets (SAMPLER #1, DEMOS #1, and GAMES #1).
  Send a SASE to the above address for a complete catalog.

  Compusult Software
  P.O. Box 5160
  San Luis Obispo, CA  93403
  [phone] (Orders)
  $5-$10 Commercial Software and Public Domain Software

  Disks O'Plenty Software
  8362 Pines Blvd. Suite 270
  Pembroke Pines, FL  33024
  [phone] (Orders)

  Microstorm Software
  P.O. Box 1086
  Sidney, MT 59270

  Q Enterprises Software
  P.O. Box 77123
  Washington, DC  20013-7123

  Powerdisk Software
  6813 Lotus Way
  West Jordan, UT  84084

  Compute Books!
  c/o CCC
  2500 McClellan Ave.
  Pennsauken, NJ  08109
  Various Compute! Books.

  Caloke Industries (Dept. GK)
  P.O. Box 18477
  Raytown, MO 64133
  Send US$2.00 for catalog + sample disk of programs

  J.P. PBM Products By Mail (Commodore Hardware)
  c/o N. Sheridan
  Mall Postal Outlet - Box # 60515
  Downsview, Ontario  M3L 1BO
  CANADA
  Send US$2.00 For C64 catalog on disk.

| CPI, Department D
+ Keystone Software
  P.O. Box 8369
  Pittsburgh, PA. 15218
  [phone] (Orders and Information)
+ [phone] (Fascimile)
+ Leroy's Cheatsheets.

  KFPDS Software
  c/o Kenneth Franklin
  P.O. Box 470464
  Los Angeles, CA 90047-0464
  Send US$2.00 for catalog + sample disks.

  Threshold Productions
| 17730 15th Avenue NE Suite #229
| Seattle, WA  98155
  [phone]
  Jon Mines (Contact)
  [e-mail] (Information)
  TP is a developer and producer of quality & budget software.

  Fred Ogle
  P.O. Box 35427
  Dundalk, MD  21222-7427
  [e-mail] (Information)
  The Color 64 BBS Software.

  R&K MicroTronics
  34 Hillwyck
  Toledo, OH  43615
  [phone] (Information and Orders)
  Commodore repair and sales.

  Centsible Software
  P.O. Box 930
  St. Joseph, MI  49085
  [phone] (Information and Orders)
  [e-mail] (Information)
  Used software for the Commodore.

  Angelo Pasquella
  P.O. Box 71
  Beachwood, HJ  08722-0071
  [phone] (Information M-F 10AM-5PM & 7PM-10PM EST)

  ArcTech Soft
  P.O. Box 56911
  North Pole, AK 99705-1911
  Software.

+ RMS
  16 Maybrook Drive
  Maywood, NJ 07607
  [phone] (Information)
+ [phone] (Bulletin Board System)
+ [phone] (Fascimile)
+ [phone] (Beeper for C-Net Technical Support)
+ [phone] (Beeper for Other Technical Support)
+ [phone] (Online Store)
+ [e-mail] (Information)
| C-Net 128 and C-Net 64 BBS Programs, Shareware, Used SW, CBM HW, CBM repair.
+ They now accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express Orders.

  Virginia Micro Systems
  13646 Jeff Davis Highway
  Woodridge, VA  22191
  [phone] (Information: 10-8 MWF, 10-5 TTSAT)
  Drive Maintenence Program.

  Master Software
  6 Hillery Court
  Randallstown, MD  21133
  [phone] (Information and Orders)
  BASIC Help Screens, Monitor Cables, Chip Saver Kit, TaxMaster SW.

  Russian Wyatt
  8614 Bramble Lane #203
  Randallstown, MD  21133
  Quest for Adventure for C-128.

  ACS Computer and Video Incorporated
  5344 Jimmy Carter Blvd.
  Norcross, GA  30093
  [phone] (Information)
  [phone] (Orders)
  [phone] (Fascimile)

  Aprotek
  9323 West Evans Creek Road
  Rogue River, OR  97537
  [phone] (Orders and Information)
  [phone] (BBS)

  Computer Bargain Store
  3366 South 2300 East
  Salt Lake City, UT  84109
  [phone] (Orders and Information)
  [phone] (Fascimile)

  Dave's Computers
  32400 Aurora Road
  Solon, OH  44139
  [phone]

  EMS Computer Service
  4355 Kinney Road
  Ludington, MI  49431
  [phone]

  Lyben
  P.O. Box 130
  5545 Bridgewood
  Sterling Heights, MI  48311-0130
  [phone]

  Mid Continent Computers
  2332 North MacArthur
  Oklahoma City, OK  73127
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Micro R&D
  721 "O" Street
  Loup City, NE  68853
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Xetec
  2804 Arnold Road
  Salina, KS  67401
  [phone]

  Andor House/Don Radler
  3907 Southeast 2nd Avenue
  Cape Coral, FL  33904

  Bare Bones Software
  940 4th Avenua., Suite #222
  Huntington, WV  25701
  [phone] (Orders)
  [phone] (Information)
  [phone] (BBS)

  Bruno's Computer Warehouse
  510 Andover Park West
  Tukwila, WA  98188
  [phone] (Information and Orders)

  Caloke Industries
  P.O. Box 18477
  Raytown, MO  64133
  [phone] (Information and Orders)

  Compsult
  P.O. Box 5160
  San Luis Obispo, CA  93403-5160
  [phone] (Information and Orders)
  [phone] (Fascimile)

  Computer Workshops
  3612 Birdie Drive
  La Mesa, Ca  91941-8044

  Digital Vision, Incorporated
  270 Bridge Street
  Dedham, MA  02026
  [phone] (Information)
  [phone] (Orders)

  Easy Books Distributing
  P.O. Box 216
  Iowa Park, TX  76367-0216
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Epyx Incorporated
  1979 Palomar Oaks Way
  Carlsbad, CA  92009
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Family Computers & Video Games
  510 South First Street
  Mount Vernon, WA  98273
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Compustuff
  2759 Medina Road
  Medina, OH  44256
  [phone] (Orders and Information)
  [phone] (Fascimile)

  FRD Software
  3487 East Terrace
  Fresno, CA  93703

  GeoWorks/Commodore Order Processing Center
  960 Atlantic Avenua
  Alameda, CA  94501
  [phone] ext. 1012 (Orders)

  Horse Feathers Graphics
  North 27310 Short Road
  Deer Park, WA  99006-9712
  [phone]

  Lance Haffner Games
  P.O. Box 100594
  Nashville, TN  37224
  [phone]

  Landmark Series
  c/o New Horizon Software
  326 Fern Avenue - Second Floor
  Lyndhurst, NJ  07071-2127

+ Click Here Software
  Maurice Randall
  P.O. Box 606
  215 East Harris
  Charlotte, MI  48813
+ Offers the new GeoFax program, which allows faxes to be sent and received
+ from your Commodore 64.

  Music Software Exchange
  P.O. Box 533334
  Orlando, FL  32853-3334

  Nathan Fiedler
  5711 Nount Pleasant Road
  Bernville, PA  19506

  Novastar Game Company
  P.O. Box 1813
  Rocklin, CA  95677
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Quincy Software
  9479 East Whitmore Avenua
  Hughson, CA  95326-9745

  Software Clearance Center
  2025 Southwest Freeway
  Houston, TX  77098
  [phone] (Orders)

  Software Etc.
  801 South Greenville Avenua
  Allen, TX  75002
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Spark's Electronics
  5316 South Ninth Street
  Saint Joseph, MO  65404-1802
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Surplus Computer Software
  3301 South Harbor Blvd.
  Santa Ana, CA  92704
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Nathan Fiedler
  5711 Mount Pleasant Road
  Bernville, PA  19506

  Terrapin Software
  400 Riverside Street
  Portland, ME  04103-1068
  [phone]

  Titus Software
  20432 Corisco Street
  Chatsworth, CA  91311
  [phone]

  User's Corner
  1110 East Jackson
  Medford, OR  97504
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  West River Computer Center
  1212 Ordegon
  Rapid City, SD  57701-2006
  [phone] (Information)
  [phone] (Orders)

  Abacus
  5370 52nd Street Southeast
  Grand Rapids, MI  49512
  [phone] (Information)
  [phone] (Orders)

  Brantford Educational Services
  6 Pioneer Place
  Brantford, ONT  Canada N3R7G7

  Busy Bee User Group
  P.O. Box 3
  Arivaca, AZ  85601-0003

  LynnCarthy Industries
  P.O. Box 392
  Boise, ID  83701-0392
  [phone]
  Performance Peripherals, dieHard

  Digi-Key
  701 Brooks Avenue South
  P.O. Box 677
  Thief River Falls, MN  56701-0677
  [phone] (Orders)
  Replacement ICs.

  Elliam Associates
  P.O. Box 2664
  Atascadero, CA  93423
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  John Elliot
  35 Crestview Avenue
  Daly City, CA  94015
  [phone]

  Historical Computer Society
  10928 Ted Williams Place
  El Paso, TX  79934
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Howard W. Sams & Company
  2647 Waterfront Parkway East Drive
  Indianapolis, IN  46214-2041
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Jameco Electronics
  1355 Shoreway Road
  Belmont, CA  94002
  [phone] (Orders and Information)
  Replacement ICs.

  Jason-Ranhem Company
  3105 Gayle Lane
  Auburn, CA 95602
  [phone] (Information)
  [phone] (Orders)

  Kaltec
  Adjuntas, Puerto Rico  00601-0971

  Marshview Software Limited
  P.O. Box 1212
  Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada  E0A3C0
  [phone] (Orders and Information)
  [phone] (Fascimile)

  MEI/Micro Center
  1100 Steelwood Road
  Columbus, OH  43212
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Midwest Micro-Peripherals
  6910 US Route 36
  East Fletcher, OH  45326
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  L.L. Plankey
  1712 Santa Margarita Drive
  Fallbrook, CA  92028-1641

  RTH Compuware
  805 Timber Lane
  Glenwood, IA  51534
  [phone]

  Reliance Forms & Supplies Incorporated
  23920 Freeway Park Drive
  Farmington Hills, MI  48334
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

| Spheretron (formerly Schnedler Systems)
+ 25 Eastwood Road
  P.O. Box 5964
  Asheville, NC  28813
  [phone]

  Skyles Electric Works
  P.O. Box 1984
  Cupertino, CA  95015-1984
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  The Soft Group
  P.O. Box 111
  Montgomery, IL 60538
  [phone] (Orders and Information)
  [phone] (Fascimile)

  TAB Books Incorporated
  Blue Ridge Summit, PA  17294-0840
  [phone] (Information)
  [phone] (Orders)

+ D-mail U.S.A
+ 91 Market Street
+ Wappingers Falls, NY  12590
+ [phone] (Orders and Information)
+ [phone] (Fascimile)

+ Cyberteck Software
+ 928 East Broadway, Suite #317
+ Missoula, MT  59802-4303
+ Public Domain GEOS and non-GEOS disks

+ Yanney Software
+ P.O. Box 224
+ Lebanon, PA  17042

+ Rolfe Wagner
+ 134 Rd 2390
+ Aztec, NM  87410

+ MNEMONIC Productions, Inc.
+ 365 Smith Street
+ Freeport, NY  11520

+ Basic Fundementals Company
+ 2235 East Marie Avenue
+ Salt Lake City, UT  84109

+ PHD Software Systems
+ P.O. Box 23
+ Moville, IA  51039-0023
+ [phone] (Information and Orders)

+ Sunrise Software
+ 439 Park Lane
+ Massapequa Park, NY  11762-1430
+ Denny's Quest game.

+ Micro Applications and Appliances
+ 6417 Hawthorne Street
+ Landover, MD  20785-1711
+ Gary Noakes (Contact)
+ Produces "1581 Expressway" and "Tag! You're It!" programs.

+ Harv Harris
+ 981 BrownThrush
+ Wichita, KS  67212
+ The Tax Survival Kit

+ Commodore Users of Wichita
+ c/o Robert C. Bales
+ 1201 East 61st Street North
+ Park City, KS  67219-1947
+ [phone]
+ The Tax Survival Kit

+ Herb's Discount Software
+ 4406 A Enterprise Place
+ Fremont, CA  94538
+ [phone] (Orders and Information)

+ Discount Computers and Software
+ 641 Southwest152nd Street
+ Seattle, WA  98166
+ [phone] (Orders and Information)

+ Beverly James Products
+ 17710 Olympia
+ Redford, Michigan 48240
+ (313)/537-6168
+ (313)/531-8108 (Bulletin Board System) (Main Support BBS)
+ (313)/235-2466 (Bulletin Board System) (Contact Jim Selleck ID#15)
+ Author and owner of C-Net DS-2 v11.6, v2.0 and v2.5 for the 64.
+ Also distributor of C-Net Amiga.

+ Michael Bendure
+ 92 Lee Ave Apt N3
+ Newark, Ohio 43055
+ [phone] (Information and Orders)
+ [phone] (Bulletin Board System)
+ Current Author/Owner of DS2 Network v3.03, v3.04 and v3.1 for C-Net
+ DS-2 v2.0 and v2.5.

+ Compuquick Media Center
+ 3758 Town & Country Road
+ Columbus, Ohio
+ [phone]
+ Commodore and Amiga Dealers and Service. CBM 8 bit Hardware and
+ Software.

+ Dick Estel
+ 3487 East Terrace
+ Fresno, CA  93703
+ Dick Estel FRD line of graphics and fonts for GEOS users.

+ Softdisk Publishing
+ Box 30008
+ Shreveport, LA  71130-0008
+ [phone] (Information and Orders)
+ LOADSTAR magazine, the Compleat Walt, Dave, and Roger disks. SPORT C64
+ novel on disk.

+ Henry Sopko
+ 2705 King Street East Apt #212
+ Hamilton, Ontario, CANADA, L8K1Y4
+ Sells SCREENSAVER DELUXE for C128.

+ Herbach and Rademan
+ 18 Canal Street
+ P.O. Box 122
+ Bristol, PA  19007-0122
+ [phone] (Orders and Information)
+ NEW, UNUSED Commodore 128D internal power supplies.

+ New Image Software, Inc.
+ P.O. Box 525
+ Salem, UT 84653
+ [phone] (Information and Orders)
+ [phone] (Bulletin Board System)
+ [e-mail] (Contact)
+ Image BBS Sales and Support.


   4.4.  Where do I get equipment serviced?

+ There are a number of repair facilities around that will bring your trusty
+ Commodore computer up to speed again.  Please look in the list below for one
+ that might be able to help you.  If that doesn't turn up anything, check
+ with your local User's Group.

  Here are a few first places to try.

  A&M Computer Repair
  24 Conklin Drive
  Stoney Point, NY 10980
  [phone] (Orders)
  [phone] (Information)
  Fixed repair prices are very low, C64 C128 etc!!

  TYCOM Inc.
  503 East Street
  Pittsfield, MA 01201
  [phone] (Information)
  Fast, fixed price all hardware repaired

  J&C Repair
  RD #2, Box 9
  Rockton, PA 15856
  [phone] (Information)
  [phone] (Fascimile)
  Repair all hardware.

  Harvey and Associates
  1409 Mill Street
  Laramie, WY 82070
  [phone] (Information)
  Repairs and service. Inexpensive.

  Computer Technologies
  121 North Ridgewood Avenue, Suite A
  Datona Beach, FL 32114
  [phone] (Information)
  Standard C64/128 repairs.

  Kasara Micro Systems
  21-G Airport Road
  Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
  [phone] (Information)
  All standard C64/128 repairs.

  Commodore Connection
  127 North Sante Fe Avenue #C
  Vista, CA  92804-5401
  [phone] (Information/Orders)
  Michael Hendren (Contact)
  General repair.

  Capestany Copmputer Repair
| P.O. Box 733
| Seabrook, TX  77586
  Philip Capestany (Contact)
  General repair.

  Sodak Electronics
  603 South mable
  Sioux Falls, SD  57103
  [phone] (Information/Orders)
  Lamar nance (Contact)
  General repair.

  Sodak Electronics
  RR2 Box 52
  Hartford, SD  57033
  [phone] (Information/Orders)
  Jim Muir (Contact)
  General repair.

  Bear Computer Repair Inc
  1005 McKean Street
  Philadelphia, PA 19148
  [phone]
  Repair C64, C128, Disk drives etc.

  BCE Inc/Commodore Connection
  c/o Jim Bethereum
  13914 E. Radcliff Pl.
  Auroa, CO 80015
  [phone]
  Commodore and general computer/peripheral repair.

  R&K MicroTronics
  34 Hillwyck
  Toledo, OH  43615
  [phone] (Information and Orders)
  Commodore repair and sales.

  Service Management Group
  930 Lancaster Avenue Suite 290
  Exton, PA  19341

  Gordy Wilson's Keyboard Studio
  304 North Maple Suite #203
  Urbana, IL  61801
  [phone]

  Accurate Data Services
  North 1414 Fiske
  Spokane, WA  99202
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Computer Shoppe of Alabama
  310 Second Avenue Northwest
  Suite C
  Cullman, AI  35055
  [phone]

  Computer USERS
  138 North Fifth
  Springfield, OR  97477
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  North American Computer
  147 West Broadway
  Waukesha, WI  53186
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

  Handi Hams System Care of Courage Center
  3915 Golden Valley Road
  Golden Valley, MN  55422
  [phone] (Orders and Information)

+ The Computer Nut
+ 2400 Mountain Drive
+ (Shades Mountain Plaza)
+ Birmingham, AL  35226

+ Global Upgrades
+ 121 West Nyack Road, Suite 6
+ Nanuet, NY  10954
+ [phone] (Orders and Information)
+ [phone] (Orders and Information)
+ [phone] (Fascimile)

+ RMS Computer Systems
+ P.O. Box 9222
+ Paramus, NJ  07653-9222
  [phone] (Information)
+ [phone] (Bulletin Board System)
+ [phone] (Fascimile)
+ [phone] (Beeper for C-Net Technical Support)
+ [phone] (Beeper for Other Technical Support)
+ [phone] (Online Store)
+ [e-mail] (Information)
| C-Net 128 and C-Net 64 BBS Programs, Shareware, Used SW, CBM HW, CBM repair.
+ They now accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express Orders.

+ Microfix
+ 3535 West Pioneer Parkway
+ Arlington, TX  76013
+ [phone] (Orders and Information)
+ Repairs PET, C64, C128.


+  4.5.  Are there other places to talk Commodore?

+ Yes, in addition to USENET, there is FIDONet and Internet Relay Chat (IRC).
+ FIDONet is a grassroots computer network similar in function to the
+ Internet.  It is not possible to describe all the features of FIDONet in
+ this FAQ, so you should consult your local User Group or BBS sysop for
+ more info.  FIDO has "FIDO echoes", which are forums similar to USENET
+ newsgroup.  The important ones for Commodore users are:

+ CBM       Commodore 64 and 128 News and Discussions
+ CBM128    Commodore 128 specific News and Discussions
+ GEOS      GEOS News and Discussions
+ PCWRITE   Cross Platform Computing, including C64 emulators

+ On IRC, which is an online version of Citizen's Band radio (CB), the
+ important channel to join is #c-64.  Again, IRC is much too complex to
+ describe here, but if you have access to IRC here are a few commands that
+ will get you going once in the program:

+ /join #c-64               Channel for the discussion of Commodore 64/128
+                           topics.

+ /msg Commbot help         will get you info on Commbot which carries C64/128
+                           software to download.

+ /msg Filebot help         another C64 bot with software to download from.

+ /msg coolhand xdcc list   if he is online, this user has many c64 files
+                           which can be downloaded via this command.

+ If you need more info on how IRC works, there is a file available on
+ Jim Brain's email file server called irc-info.txt that explains IRC in
+ more depth.  Just mail [e-mail] with:
+ FGET: irc-info.txt
+ in the subject line to have a copy mailed to you.


+  4.6.  Are there Commodore Users on the World Wide Web?

+ Yes, there are.  The World Wide Web (WWW or W3) is a Internet-wide
+ Hypertext document retrieval and display system.  To use WWW, you must have
+ access to a WWW HyperText Markup Language (HTML) browser.  Typical examples
+ include lynx, which is a ASCII browser available on UNIX, and Mosaic, a
+ GUI browser available for UNIX, Windows, Mac, and other platforms.  There
+ are others, but these are a few.  Once in a browser program, point it at
+ some of these WWW "pages":

+ http://www.hut.fi/~msmakela
+ The main European Commodore site maintained by Marko Makela

+ http://ccnga.uwaterloo.ca/~csbruce/index.html
+ Craig Bruce's site.

+ http://www.msen.com/~brain
+ Main US Commodore site maintained by Jim Brain

+ http://monami.psc.edu/
+ The Pittsburgh Commodore Group site.

+ http://www.cs.umd.edu/users/fms/comp
+ The world root site for computers.

+ http://www.nada.kth.se/~d93-alo/c64/
+ Commodore 64 Games Home Page.

+ http://ix.urz.uni-heielberg/~fs1/c64/
+ Andre Fachat's miscellaneous utilities and files.

+ http://basil.cs.flinders.edu.au:2374/~gardners
+ Paul Gardner-Stephen's home page, C65 information.

+ http://www.rbg.informatik.th-darmstadt.de/~supermjk
+ Marc-Jano Knopp's home page.

+ http://www.nada.kth.se/~d93-alo/c64/
+ Adam Lorentzon's home page.

+ http://www.infinet.com/~rbatina
+ Robert Batina's home page.

+ http://www.csd.uu.se/~d94aca/vic20.html
+ Anders Carlsson's home page

+ http://ix.urz.uni-heidelberg.de/~fs1/c64/
+ Andre Fachat's home page

+ http://ciips.ee.uwa.edu.au/~phillips/c64/Index.html
+ Christopher Phillips' home page

+ http://131.188.190.131/~poldi/c64.html
+ Daniel Dallmann's home page

+ http://www.cs.tu-berlin.de/~poing/english/padua.html
+ Frank Michlick's home page

+ http://130.239.24.82/asv/phred/index.html
+ Fredrick Backman's home page

+ http://stekt.oulu.fi/~jopi/
+ Jouko Valta's (Jopi's) home page.

+ http://www.hut.fi/~msmakela/
+ Marko Makela's home page.

+ http://www.industry.net:80/users/speck/
+ Sean Peck's home page.

+ http://www.alkymi.unit.no/~sveinw/
+ Svein Yngvar Willassen's home page.

+ http://www.cs.vu.nl/~ipoorten/8bit.html
+ Atari 8-bit Home page

+ http://www.seattlelab.com/c64s.htm
+ C64S Emulator home page.

+ http://www.futurenet.co.uk/computing/commodoreformat.html
+ Commodore Format magazine home page.

+ http://www.engr.wisc.edu/~conover/c64.html
+ Commodore 64 (*.d64 and *.t64 Archive) home page.

+ http://www.funet.fi/pub/cbm/
+ Ftp.funet.fi (via WWW)

+ http://www.cs.umd.edu/users/fms/comp/
+ Personal Computing and Emulation Homepage

+ http://akebono.stanford.edu/yahoo/Computers/PCs/Commodore/
+ Yahoo Commodore Index

+ http://www.armory.com/~spectre/cwi.html
+ The Computer Workshops WWW site.

+ http://www.cs.tu-berlin.de/~poing/
+ Demo scene info.

+ http://www.futurenet.co.uk/computing/amigaformat/commodore.html
+ Info on status of CBM and Amiga Format mag info.

+ http://http.ecn.bgu.edu/users/xavf/cbm.emu.faq.toc.html
+ http://http.ecn.bgu.edu/users/gforte/cbm.emu.faq.toc.html
+ Commodore Emulation FAQ.

+ http://chrom.imbg.ku.dk/bonzai.html
+ Bonzai home page.

+ http://www.inf.bme.hu/~mrc/
+ Delta Sytem home page

+ http://www.ling.umu.se/asv/phred/cbm64/cbm64.html
+ Phred's home page.

+ http://www.cfn.cs.dal.ca/Services/PDA/commodore.html
+ PDA home pages.

+ If you do not have WWW access to the Web, you can request pages be mailed
+ to by sending mail to [e-mail] with the subject Help.  The
+ return mail should tell you how to request a WWW page.

+ However, if you do have access to telnet on the Internet, you can access
+ the Web.  Instructions on how to do this can be retrieved by sending
+ [e-mail] an email message with the subject:

+ FGET: wwwtelnet.txt




--
Jim Brain, Embedded Systems Designer, Brain Innovations.
[e-mail]
Dabbling in VR, Old Commodore Computers, and Good Times!
"The above views DO reflect my employer, since I am my employer" - Jim Brain


Archive-name: cbm-main-faq.2.2.p2
Comp-answers-archive-name: commodore/main-faq/part2
News-answers-archive-name: commodore/main-faq/part2
Comp-sys-cbm-archive-name: main-faq/part2
Version: 2.2
Last-modified: 1995/3/6


   5. Connecting Up

   5.1.  How do I connect my computer to the outside world?

  You need to first define what the "outside world" world means to you.  Here
  are a few examples:

        Bulletin Board System (BBS). - Small system usually with one phone
        line operated by an individual. Fees are optional.  For a list of
        BBS systems in your area, contact Myles Skinner for a listing at
        [e-mail].

        Compuserve Information Service.  - CompuServe has two Forums designed
        specifically for Commodore 8-bit computer users.  CBM Applications
        Forum (GO CBMAPP) deals with programming, geoProgramming,
        applications software, telecommunications, CP/M, utilities and
        hardware.  CBM Arts/Games/Music & GEOS Forum (GO CBMART) deals with
        GEOS in general, music (including SidPlayer and MIDI), games,
        graphics and graphics utilities.  Both Forums have full message
        boards and extensive data libraries, and both Forums have weekly
        real-time conferences.

        The CompuServe network is available virtually world wide.  The
        Commodore Forums are attracting increasing membership from Europe
        and Australia, and have begun to tap into the vast variety of
        Commodore files available around the world (some of the best new
        Commodore programs are coming in from Europe these days).  CompuServe
        has an extensive network of local numbers throughout the United
        States and Canada and is also available through supplemental
        networks such as SprintNet and DataPac.  The number of direct
        CompuServe connect numbers in Europe is beginning to expand.

        While there is no standalone CompuServe navigator program available
        for Commodore users, CBMAPP has the CIS.EXE script set that
        automates Dialogue 128 on CompuServe, and also VIDAUT.BIN which will
        virtually automate Vidtex (which is available again through Software
        Support International).  In addition there is OFFLIN.HLP, a text
        file in CBMAPP, that provides a method for semi-automating access
        with any standard comm program and word processor.

        CompuServe's rates are as follows:

        * The Standard Pricing Plan (also referred to as Basic Services)
        provides free unlimited access to a wide variety of news, reference,
        shopping, games, financial, communications and travel services for a
        monthly charge of $8.95.  New members get their first month of Basic
        Services free (the $8.95 charge does not begin until their second
        month of membership).  All other access is charged at standard
        hourly rates.

        * The Alternative Pricing Plan provides unlimited free access only
        to Membership Support Services (Customer Service, the Practice Forum,
        the Help Forum and the support Forums for CompuServe's software) for
        a monthly fee of $2.50.  All other usage is charged at standard
        hourly rates.

           Standard Pricing Plan:       Alternative Pricing Plan:
           300 bps.........$ 4.80/hour  300 bps...........$ 6.30/hour
           1200,2400 bps...$ 4.80/hour  1200,2400 bps.....$12.80/hour
           9600,14400 bps..$ 9.60/hour  9600,14400 bps....$22.80/hour

        While these rates on the face of it appear to be much higher than
        some of the other competing services, it is important to remember
        that with CompuServe's threaded message structure it is possible to
        capture all messages, sign off, read and reply to them off line, and
        transmit the replies in a very short time, so that one's actual
        connect time and cost will be minimized.  This is not possible on
        wholly-interactive services.

        Genie - GEnie is a general interest telecommunications service
        run by General Electric. For a monthly price of $9.00, you are given
        4 hours of access time and then charged $3/hour for any service.

        The Commodore support area on GEnie is known as the Flagship
        Roundtable.  While there are a few premium services on GEnie that
        charge an extra price, all of the Flagship is available at the basic
        rate. The Flagship RT includes some "Real-Time Conferences" (RTCs)
        featuring classes or discussion of issues associated with Commodore
        computers. Additionally, there is a BB (Bulletin Board), which works
        much like Usenets comp.sys.cbm (only the discussion is broken down
        into categories and topics). Finally, the Flagship has an extensive
        library of Commodore files.

        The BB messages can be read economically by capturing all the new
        messages in a terminal programs capture buffer, and reading the
        messages off-line. Wizard, the C= GEnie fron end, supports this.

        Because GEnie is a general interest service,it supports many different
        computers, and you can use any ASCII terminal program to connect to
        GEnie. Wizard is available, but not required. GEnie operates normally
        at 300, 1200, and 2400 baud, although for additional cost you can
        connect at 9600 baud. There are local access numbers across the
        country.

        Delphi Internet Services. - Delphi is a commercial system that,
        while small in comparison to other systems, is growing rapidly.  It
        has a large forum dedicated to Commodore computers, as well as access
        to the Usenet and the comp.sys.cbm newsgroup.  Delphi has two plans.
        One, called the Standard Plan, costs $10.00 a month and gives the
        user 4 hours of non-prime time (6PM-7AM) free each month.  Each
        additional hour is $4.00.  The other plan, called the Advantage Plan,
        costs $20.00 a month and gives the user 20 hours of non-prime-time
        free each month.  Each hour over 20 is $1.80.  Access to the Internet
        via Delphi costs an additional $3.00 for both plans each month.

        QuantumLink. - Q-Link is a Commodore specific telecommunications
        service.  This service, while booming in the late 1980's, is now only
        a mere shadow of what it once was.  QuantumLink is owned by America
        Online, and calls to the Technical service area of Qlink have
        unearthed the truth: AOL will spend no more money on Q-Link.  It will
        be allowed to die.  There are rumors floating around about when it
        will close, but the fact that it will close is true.  Many services
        have already been shutdown, so it is wise to just avoid this service.
        Many others listed here can provide the same level of Commodore
        support as Quantumlink once did.  It has been confirmed that Q-Link
        will cease to exist as of October 31st, 1994.  Any existing users
        can opt to transfer their membership to AOL.

+       There was an effort to retrieve as many of the QuantumLink files
+       as could be retrieved.  Email Brenda G4 at [e-mail]
+       for more information.

        Internet. - Huge system of interconnected systems.  Home of the
        Usenet newsgroups and all FTP sites.

+       Phoenix Network - Phoenix is a new network system.  It is reviewed in
+       Issue 3 of Commodore World, and other publications.
+       [phone] (Information)
+       [e-mail] (Contact?)

  To get to each of these services, you must have a Commodore computer, a disk
  drive or tape unit, a modem, and a terminal emulation program.


   5.2.  What hardware do I need?

  You need a Commodore computer system that is functional.
  To connect at 2400 bps or lower (4800 bps on the C128 in 128 fast mode),
  you need either a modem that can plug into the user port of the computer,
  or a Hayes(tm) compatible modem and a RS-232 to RS-232C interface.  The
  interface can either be made or purchased.  See the enhancements section
  for more information.

  To connect at speeds greater than 2400(4800) bps, you must either build or
  purchase a serial port interface.  Typical examples are the Swiftlink
  cartridge from CMD or the DataPump cartridge that can be built. You will
  also need a Hayes(tm) compatible modem that will work at the speed you
  desire.

  The easiest modems to use are C= standard modems.  These modems plug
  directly into the user port of your 64/128.  The most popular modem from
  Commodore is the C= 1670.  The 1670 sports a (large and useful) subset of
  the Hayes command set, the standard command set expected by most terminal
  programs.  Most other C= standard modems are 1670 compatible, Hayes
  compatible, or both.  Standard C= modems can be found as fast as 2400 baud.

  The next easiest is a Commodore compatible modems, like the Aprotek line.
  These modems plug directly into the user port, and emulate Commodore modems,
  but may be eaiser to find and cheaper to buy.

  You can connect a standard Hayes modem to your 64/128 if you acquire a
  RS232 adapter.  Such an adapter plugs into your User port, and provides
  you with a standard RS232 serial port, into which a standard modem can be
  plugged.  Peak Peripherals, Omnitronix, and a few others sell such
  adapters.  They typically cost from $20 to $40.  See 9.8 for details on
  how to make your own interface.


   5.3.  What kinds of terminal programs exist?

  Popular shareware and freely distributable terminal programs available on
  the net include DesTerm128 for the 128, Novaterm for the 64, and Kermit
  for both the 64 and 128.  Each of these programs include emulations of
  popular terminal types (e.g. VT100, ANSI), as well as one or more transfer
  protocols.  Popular commercial terminal programs include Bob's Term Pro
  and Dialogue 128.


   5.4.  How do I download?  What does transfer protocol mean?

  Downloading Files via Anonymous FTP

  Freely distributable (PD, freeware, shareware) files are available for you
  to download at a number of "anonymous ftp" sites on the net.  To get files
  from these sites, you use (on most systems) a program called ftp.  A typical
  ftp session (assuming you are running from a Unix system) would be as
  follows:

  To download software (files) from an anonymous ftp sites, one has to
  be cognizant that there are two connections to be concerned about.  The
  first connection is from your Commodore to you host computer and then
  the connection from your host to the ftp site.  In addition you need to be
  be aware of the nature of the information in the desired file, particularly
  if you are downloading programs.  If the file is not known to be in
  printable ASCII form, consider it a binary file.  It may also be be in an
  archived form, i.e. a form where it is packed with many files or in a
  shortened format.  Consider these to be binary unless it is of the "uu"
  type which is an ASCII format.

  SAMPLE SESSION:

  %ftp ccnga.uwaterloo.ca                   <ccnga.uwaterloo.ca is site name>
  Connected to ccnga.uwaterloo.ca.
  220 punisher FTP server (SunOS 4.1) ready.
  Name (cco.caltech.edu:rknop): anonymous     <Use "anonymous" for user name>
  331 Guest login ok, send ident as password.
  Password:                                   <Type your E-mail address here>
  230 Guest login ok, access restrictions apply.
  ftp> cd /pub/cbm/utilities                         <"cd" changes directory>
  250 CWD command successful.
  ftp> dir z*                             <"dir" alone lists whole directory>
  200 PORT command successful.
  150 ASCII data connection for /bin/ls (131.215.48.57,2084) (0 bytes).
  -rw-r--r--  1 root     root        15427 Apr 13 15:42 zed-128.070
  -rw-r--r--  1 root     root        14107 Apr 13 15:42 zed-128.doc
  226 ASCII Transfer complete.
  remote: z*
  134 bytes received in 0.44 seconds (0.3 Kbytes/s)
  ftp> binary                           <specifies binary files. IMPORTANT!!>
  200 Type set to I.
  ftp> get zed-128.070                            <requests file zed-128.070>
  200 PORT command successful.
  150 Binary data connection for zed-128.070 (131.215.48.57,20) (15427 bytes)
  226 Binary Transfer complete.
  local: zed-128.070 remote: zed-128.070
  15427 bytes received in 0.1 seconds (1.5e+02 Kbytes/s)
  ftp> quit                                      <quit when you are finished>
  221 Goodbye.
  %

  To submit files to an ftp site, you use the command "put".  Again, make sure
  to first specify "binary" for programs and other binary files.  Typically,
  ftp sites will only accept submissions in an "INCOMING" directory.

  Mail Servers

  If you do not have access to ftp, there are also some "mail servers" that
  allow ftp access for only GETTING files from anonymous FTP sites.
  Basically, you send mail to an ftpmail site, and in the first
  message you ever send, the only thing you should say in the body is "help"
  on the first line and on another line "quit".  They will send you a help
  file.  From then on out, the mail you send to the mail server will be
  requests that you send for information from sites.  Ftpmail will send you a
  message telling you it got your request, then later on you get your
  file/directory in mail, and also a result message of what went on.

  All I do then is transfer the files to my work directory, edit out
  the headers from the mail, and d/l the file, uudecode it, and
  there I have the file I asked for.

  Included is a sample mail file I use to get the job done.
  As a matter of fact, the output of the actual FTP session is like the
  material in the section on anonymous FTP.  This process will take some time
  as it depends on the amount of requests in the queue.  I usually get one
  day turnaround, but I have also had bombs since the systems may be down etc.
  when the ftpmail server gets around to serving your request.  I guess
  that's part of life.  There are some limitations that apply and you will
  be told about them each time you send a request.

  The mail file is really a "here" document that I have in a shell script.
  If you don't understand what I mean by a shell script/"here" document
  all you have to do is type the the lines as shown below without the
  information in [] on the command line.
  ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
  mail [e-mail][<<!]
  connect ccnga.uwaterloo.ca anonymous [e-mail]
  chdir /pub/cbm/comp.sys.cbm
  ls -l
  quit
  [!] or CNTL-D
  ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Something you need to know is that the mailserver will split
  files into smaller chunks and substitute the file name with "ftp.mail" or
  something close to that. You need to watch the sequence when you receive
  the parts so you get them in order and you come up with a good name
  or extra lines.  Experience will teach you.

+ Potential ftpmail servers include:

+ [e-mail]
+ [e-mail]


  Other Mail Servers

  A couple of people are running servers that will respond to email requests.
  Each have a limited amount of files available.  To access them send the
  following email:

+ To: [e-mail]
+ Subject: ftpmail

+ This is Craig Bruces "ad-hoc" FTPMAIL server.  All of the regular ftp
+ are accepted, with these additional commands:

+ help   - gives help information.
+ bcode  - requests the data be sent as bcoded files.
+ hexcode- requests the data be sent as hexcoded files.

+ Here is a sample message to send:

+ help
+ bcode
+ ftp ccnga.uwaterloo.ca
+ cd /pub/cbm/os/ace
+ dir
+ get ace12.doc
+ quit

  Or another server:

| To:  [e-mail]
| Subject: HELP

+ That will return a list of commands.  In short, most commands are put in
+ the Subject line and include:

+ HELP               Gets a copy of the list of commands available.
+ FLIST              Gets a copy of the files currently available.
+ FGET: <filename>   Gets a copy of <filename> from the server.
+ FFTP               Invokes the mail ftp server.  commands to ftp should be
+                    in the body of the message.

  Or another server:

  To: [e-mail]
  Subject: MAILSERV
+ Currently the following commands are supported:

+ help              - sends current documentation f file list
+ send <filename>   - sends the associated file
+ subscribe         - subscribe to the mailing list automatically
+ catalog           - show list of available source /uuencoded binaries

+ Please note that the mailserver is only run at 2:00 AM and 2:00 PM EST.


  Transfer Protocols

  To transfer files from your mainframe (usually Unix or VMS) system to your
  64/128, you typically need to use some sort of error-correcting file
  transfer protocol.  The most popular protocols for the 64/128 are X/YMODEM
  and KERMIT.  These two protocols are very common, and are available on many
  computer systems.  Note that the term kermit is used as a terminal emulator
  product as well as a file transfer protocol.  Indeed, the Kermit terminal
  program supports the KERMIT file transfer protocol.  Novaterm supports
  KERMIT and X/Y/ZMODEM. DesTerm supports KERMIT and X/Y MODEM.

  For more info on Novaterm or to get a copy by mail, contact:

  Nick Rossi
  10002 Aurora Avenue North #1159
  Seattle, WA  98133
  $25 US for the program, now at version 9.5.
  [e-mail] (Contact)
| The version is also available as shareware at ftp.eskimo.com in
  /voyager/Novaterm

  For more info on Kermit (the term prg) or to get a copy by mail, contact:

  Kent Sullivan
  16611 NE 26th Street
  Bellevue, WA  98008
  $12.50 US for the program, now at version 2.2.
  Note that Columbia University holds the copyright for the Kermit Terminal
  Software.  You can get a copy of the Commodore version by ftp:
  cs.columbia.edu (128.59.1.2) /archives/C64KER.

  For more information on DesTerm or to get a copy by mail, contact:

  Steve Cuthbert
  [e-mail]
  (I have been told this address is no longer active)

  Matt Desmond
  [e-mail]

  XMODEM/YMODEM

  XMODEM comes in several varieties.  Standard XMODEM sends files in 128 byte
  packets.  There are two standard error-correction methods with XMODEM
  checksum and CRC.  CRC is the more modern of the two.  There is also a
  version of XMODEM which supports 1K-byte packets.  This version is most
  commonly known as XMODEM-1K, but is sometimes erroneously called YMODEM.
  YMODEM is a "batch" XMODEM protocol, allowing you to transfer multiple
  files in one operation.

  ZMODEM

  A new file transfer protocol is ZMODEM.  NovaTerm, as of version 9.5,
  supports ZMODEM receives, but not sends.

  KERMIT

  Another file transfer protocol used is Kermit.
  It is on the Columbia machine (watsun.cc.columbia.edu) and available by
  anonymous ftp. The same package only supports 1200 baud; there used to be
  some 2400 baud patches on Milton by whom I don't know.  If someone has them,
  could they be put on ccnga.uwaterloo.ca?


   5.5.  PETSCII vs. ASCII?

  This debate has caused grief for many years.  Watch out for it.  The
  Commodore world represents all of its characters in an encoding called
  PETSCII, but the rest of the world uses the American Standard Code for
  Information Interchange (ASCII).  If your transferring text files,
  there is a possibility the file could be in ASCII or PETSCII.  If you
  fetch a file and it looks as though the case of the letters is reversed,
  the the file needs to be converted into PETSCII.


   5.6.  Where can I find Commodore programs?

  A number of BBS systems have download areas devoted to the Commodore line
  of computers.  Also, a number of sites on Internet have areas for Commodore
  files. The list of current Internet FTP sites can be retrieved from the
  same directory that this file was found and is called cbm_ftpsitesMMYY,
  where MM is the Month and YY is the year that the list is for.  The
  FTP List is maintained by Howard Herman and a copy of the latest file can be
  obtained from him at [e-mail].


   5.7.  What else is available online?

  Well, aside from people, programs, and newsgroups, there are such things
  as disk magazines, online magazines, mailing lists, and project
  descriptions for Commodore enthusiasts.


   5.8.  What is a file extension, and what do they stand for?

  A file extension is a 3 letter suffix appended to the end of a file name.
  This extension holds important information about the contents of the file.
  Most file extensions on Commodore files tell which type of archiving
  method was used to make the file smaller or place several files into one
  large file.  The list below tells what each extension stands for and what
  processing the user must do to the file before using it.

  Extension:    Meaning:            Notes:
  -----------------------------------------
  .txt          Text File           This file is not compressed, so it needs
                                    no decompression step.  However, the file
                                    may be in either ASCII or PETSCII format,
                                    so a conversion step may be necessary.
                                    Most terminal programs can do this
                                    conversion, and there are stand-alone
                                    programs that do the necessary conversion
                                    also.

  .sda          Self-Dissolving     Just load and run the .sda file to
                Archive             dissolve the archive.  Will dissolve
                                    itself into its constituent files.
                                    C64 and C128 .sda files are not
                                    compatible with each other.

  .sfx          Self-Extracting     Load and run just like a .sda file.
                Archive             The same archive can be extracted on
                                    either a C64 or a C128, memory permitting.

  .arc          ARChive             Use the program arc250.4 or earlier
                                    for the 64 or arc128 for the 128 to
                                    dissolve the archive.  arc128 is available
                                    as part of the CS-DOS package.  Other
                                    de-archive programs may exist.

  .lzh          LHArchive           Use the program lhx in CS-DOS on the
                                    128 to dissolve this archive.  These
                                    are not very common.  This archive
                                    uses the same format as .sfx files,
                                    but is not self-extracting.  It is
                                    a standard format also used by
                                    Amiga (and MS-DOS) computers.  This
                                    format originated on the PC.

  .lnx          Lynx Archive        The above formats all compress files when
                                    storing them; Lynx just stores them.
                                    There are many different versions of
                                    Lynx out there, so good luck dissolving
                                    these.

  .lbr          Library Archive     A format similar to lynx.  Library
                                    dissolving programs exist for both the
                                    64 and 128 to dissolve these.

  .uue          UUEncoded file      UUencoding is a process whereby a binary
                                    file can be converted to an all-text
                                    file, transferable by E-mail.  This
                                    encoded file can later be UUDecoded back
                                    to the original binary file.  Unix
                                    has uuencoding/decoding utilities.
                                    A program "uuxfer" for the
                                    C64 (by Fuzzy Fox) will both uuencode
                                    and uudecode.  Note that the contents of
                                    uue file could be another archived file.

  .uua          UU archive          An extension of uuencoding, a uuarchive
                                    file is a concatenation of one or more
                                    UUEncoded files.  So far as I know, this
                                    was introduced by Craig Bruce in his ACE
                                    shell for the C=128, and the utilities
                                    included with that shell create and
                                    dissolve uuarchives.

  .kar          Kevin's Archive     Another text archive format that seems
                                    to have originated with Craig Bruce,
                                    this is a proscription for concatenating
                                    a series of text files (which can include
                                    uuencoded files) into one file.  More
                                    information can be found in C. Bruce's
                                    documentation for his ace shell.

  x!<file>      ZIPCoded file       ZIPCode is a program that takes an entire
                                    disk and "compacts" it into 4 files that
                                    have a number followed by a '!' and then
|                                   a filename.  Also, ZipCode can compress
+                                   files, in which case the x is a letter
+                                   (a,b,c,d) and there need not be 4 files.
+                                   If ZipCode has compressed individual
+                                   files, there will be an "i!" or
+                                   "x!"-prefixed file on the disk that holds
+                                   the directory of the file compressed.  To
+                                   make things even more confusing, there
+                                   are two versions of ZipCode (v1 and v2).
+                                   The newer version will accept v1 archives,
+                                   but not vice-versa.  Use ZipCode v2 to
+                                   unpack such archives.

| x!!<file>     ZIPCode 6-pack      This is a ZIPCode archive that takes an
                                    entire disk and puts it into 6 files,
                                    each file containing GCS codes and header
                                    info for the tracks.  This is basically
                                    a nybble copier that stores the data it
                                    receives from the disk into files.

  .bco          BCODEd file         BCODing is very similar to UUencoding in
                                    that a binary file is converted into an
                                    all-text format that is 33% larger than
                                    the original.  The difference is that the
                                    BCODE format provides additional
                                    information for error detection and
                                    automatic data segmentation and
                                    reordering.  C-code versions of "bcode"
                                    and "unbcode" are available via FTP and
                                    Commodore versions are provided with
                                    ACE-128/64.

   .zip         ZIP archive         Zip is a file format used on IBM
                                    platforms and is created by the PKZip
                                    program that is available for some
                                    platforms.  There are two forms of zip
                                    files that have the same extension.
                                    Both are created by different versions of
                                    PKZip.  The first, version 1.01, can be
                                    dissolved on a 64 by using the program
                                    UNZIP64.  The second, newer format is
                                    version 2.04, which cannot be dissolved by
                                    UNZIP64.  Your best solution when in doubt
                                    is to dissolve the files on another
                                    platform.  For the 128, there is a version
                                    of the UNZIP64 program, called UNZIP128
                                    that has been modified to run in 128 mode.
                                    It is in a file called NZP12813.SFX.

   <file>]x     Compression Kit     x = 4,7,8, cmd, or c(xx) to denote type
                Archive             of media that was compressed.  The files
                                    can be extracted only with The Compression
                                    Kit, from Mad Man Software.

  .tar          TAR Archive         UNIX Tape ARchiver.  This program can be
                                    used to archive files as well.  The file
                                    must be decoded using tar.

  .Z            Compress archive    Compress is a program on UNIX that will
                                    shrink a single file.  It is usually used
                                    on .tar files in UNIX to reduce their
                                    size.  The file must be decoded by the
                                    uncompress program, available on UNIX, PC,
                                    Mac and other platforms.

  .gz           GZIP Archive        GZIP is a free program developed by the
                                    Free Software Foundation to freely shrink
                                    their software.  the resulting file must be
                                    decoded by GUNZIP, available on many
                                    platforms, before using.

  .taz          Compressed TAR      This is a file that should have the
                                    extension "tar.Z", but has been shortened
                                    for MS-DOS.  Run uncompress, then tar on
                                    this file.

   .cvt         GEOS file           GEOS files use a special file format. The
                                    files are called USR files, but they have
                                    special information in the file that
                                    normal files don't, so you cannot just
                                    upload a GEOS file like any SEQ or PRG
                                    file. You can pack all the extra
                                    information and the data into a regular
                                    Commodore SEQ or PRG file with a program
                                    Called Convert.  It has a version 2.5 and
                                    a 3.0.  The files that result from this
                                    conversion have the extension.  The file
                                    must be processed again by Convert before
                                    it can be used with GEOS.

  There many programs available to do these conversions.  One of the them is
  called Omega-Q II, which includes one-stop compression and decompression of
  many of the available types.  It has a menu-style system and can do other
  things as weel, like display or print ASCII files.

  If you use a host system to download the files from, you may want to
  decompress the files before downloading.  Even though the files will be
  larger to download, the time to decompress them offline will not be a
  factor.  However, those who pay by-the-minute for download time would
  probably want the smallest possible file, which implies decompressing on
  the local machine, except in the case of a UU encoded file.  These files
  are actually bigger in the 'UU' format.


   5.9.  What are mailing lists and how do I join one?

  A mailing list is similar to a Usenet newsgroup like comp.sys.cbm, in that
  it provides a place for people to talk among each other and ask questions.
  The difference is that the mechanism used is mail.  You mail a message off
  to the list, the message then gets sent out to all members of that list,
  they read and reply to the list, and the process repeats.  It is used for
  topics that are considered temporary or topics that have a limited scope and
  may not sustain an entire newsgroup being devoted to them.  It may also
  be used when people want to privately discuss some issue.

  There are a number of Commodore 8-bit mailing lists for you to join:

  cbm-unix - This is a list devoted to the discussion of alternate operating
             systems for the Commodore line that have the familiar UNIX
             shell look-and-feel. You can join this one by sending mail to
             [e-mail] with the message:

             subscribe cbm-unix Jim Brain                 <use your own name>
             review cbm-unix          <this will show you who is on the list>
             help                     <this will explain how to use the list>

             you can then send mail to the list by addressing it to:
             [e-mail].

  old-cbm -  This is a list devoted to discussions of older Commodore
             equipment.  Typically, this list discusses issues concerning
             PETs, the VIC-20, Plus 4 and C16, and other lesser used
             machines.  You can join this one by sending mail to
             [e-mail] with the message:

             subscribe old-cbm Jim Brain                  <use your own name>
             review old-cbm           <this will show you who is on the list>
             help                     <this will explain how to use the list>

             you can then send mail to the list by addressing it to:
             [e-mail].

  c64-hackers - I do not know much about this list other than it is used to
             discuss issue realting to timing and special opcodes used in
             Commodore programs. You can join this list by sending mail to
             [e-mail] with the message:

             subscribe c64-hackers Jim Brain              <use your own name>
             review c64-hackers       <this will show you who is on the list>
             help                     <this will explain how to use the list>

             you can then send mail to the list by addressing it to:
             [e-mail].

  commodor - This is a list that is for all Commodore 8-bit computer
             discussion.  This list mirrors most of the discussion on
             comp.sys.cbm, so I would post to both places. You subscribe
             by sending a mail msg to:
             [e-mail] with the message:

             subscribe commodor Jim Brain                 <use your own name>
             review commodor          <this will show you who is on the list>
             help                     <this will explain how to use the list>

             you can then send mail to the list by addressing it to:
             [e-mail]

  c65list -  This is a list that discusses the various aspects of the
             Commodore C65 Prototype system.  There are files and
             information available through this list to C65 owners.  Note
             that this is NOT the list to ask where a C64 can be purchased
             from, since the C65 is not a product, per se, as all available
             units were in-house prototypes liquidated at a warehouse.
             You can subscribe by sending a mail msg to:
             [e-mail] with the subject:

             subscribe

             You can then send mail to the list by address it to:
             [e-mail] or [e-mail].

  c=hacking - This list is set up to automatically mail out the latest copy
             of Commodore Hacking Online Magazine upon publication.  It is run
             through Craig Taylor's mailserver.  You can subscribe by sending
             a mail message to:

             [e-mail] with a subject line of:

             MAILSERV with a message of:

             subscribe
             help                     <this will explain how to use the list>

+ c64coders - This list is for Commodore 64 coders.  Not much is known about
+             the list, but here is how to join.  Send a mail message to:
+
+             [e-mail] with a subject line of:
+
+             subscribe.


   5.10. Are there other ways to transfer files?

  It is possible to mail people binary files.  To do this, you need access
  to a program called uuencode.  Most, if not all UNIX machines have this
  command available, and there are versions available for IBM, Amiga, and
  Macintosh. There is also a version of uuencode available for the
  Commodore 64 and 128 as part of the ACE 128/64 OS replacement. (See section
  8.3)  The uuencode program takes a binary file and expands it so that
  it only contains 7-bit ASCII characters.  This resulting file can then be
  mailed to a recipient, who then uses a similar program called uudecode
  that will transform the uuencoded file into the resulting binary file.
  This encoding technique is a standard one used across multiple platforms.
  If you want to send a file to another Commodore owner, you can use bcode,
  which is a Commodore-specific encoding available in ACE 128/64.

  If you are regularly on Internet Relay Chat (IRC), you can send binary
  files directly to others on IRC by issuing:

    /dcc send (nickname) (filename)

  where (nickname) is the nickname of the person you wish to send to, and
  (filename) is the name of the file, including path if not is current
  directory.

  You receive files by typing:

    /dcc receive (nickname)  or
    /dcc get (filename)


   5.11. How do I contact people on Compuserve, Genie, etc.?

  These online services have gateways to the Internet.  To send a message to
  someone on the following services, make sure they can receive Internet mail
  and address the message as follows:

  Service       Username        Internet Address

  Compuserve    12345,678       [e-mail]
  GEnie         j.smith2        [e-mail]
  Delphi        jsmith          [e-mail]

  FidoNet is special, since there are many fidonet nodes, so you need the
  specific node information for the system that the recipient is on.  Assume
  that Jim Brain is on a fido BBS that is node 115 on network 233 in zone
| 1. (denoted in FIDO as 1:233/115)  The address would be:

  FidoNet       Jim Brain       [e-mail]

+ If the fido address is a point on a FIDO network (denoted as 1:233/115.200),
+ then the address would be:

+ FidoNet       Jim Brain       [e-mail]


--
Jim Brain, Embedded Systems Designer, Brain Innovations.
[e-mail]
Dabbling in VR, Old Commodore Computers, and Good Times!
"The above views DO reflect my employer, since I am my employer" - Jim Brain


Archive-name: cbm-main-faq.2.2.p3
Comp-answers-archive-name: commodore/main-faq/part3
News-answers-archive-name: commodore/main-faq/part3
Comp-sys-cbm-archive-name: main-faq/part3
Version: 2.2
Last-modified: 1995/3/6


   6. Publications

   6.1.  What paper publications are available?

  There are a number of publications which are specifically geared to
  information associated with the C64 and C128.

  THE DEAD LIST

  The following magazines have died:  AHOY,RUN,COMMODORE,TRANSACTOR GeoVISION.
  Back issues that can be found are a treasure trove of good information.

  The Transactor

  Sure, it's dead, and has been for a few years, but this one was a classic.
  Calling itself the magazine for Commodore programmers, this magazine was
  enough to make any C64/C128 programmer drool.  Featuring in-depth technical
  information and programming tutorials, as well as "out-of-the-way" topics
  (things along the line of Richard Curcio's 256K and 512K articles that
  appeared in TC128).  If you are a programmer, and can get your hands on
  back issues of this magazine, do so.

  Micro-Bytes

  As of 25-May-1992, Parsec, Inc. has taken over the
  distribution of MB products, and back issues.
  More information about MB can be found in the /pub/cbm/micro-bytes
  directory on ccnga.uwaterloo.ca.

  COMPUTE'S Gazette

  COMPUTE'S Gazette
  P.O. BOX 3244
  HARLAN, IA 51593-2424
  [phone] (Subscription Number)
  [e-mail] (Gazette Editor, Tom Netsel)
+ Yes, the Gazette is finally shutting down.  They are trying to clear out
+ old inventory, so give them a call for back issues.


  THE LIVE LIST

+ The Underground

+ The Underground
+ 4574 Via Santa Maria
+ Santa Maria, CA 93455
+ [e-mail] (Contact)
+ Scott Egglestone (Editor)
+ The Underground is a small format (8.5" x 5.5", with an average 28
+ pages) publication which covers all sorts of Commodore topics.  Each
+ issue will usually have two feature articles and two reviews, as well
+ as regular columns on GEOS, telecommunications, programming, news,
+ commentary, and Public Domain and Shareware.  One unique feature to
+ the Underground is "Underware", which is all the PD/SW software
+ mentioned in each issue which is provided "free" to those subscribers
+ who send in a blank disk with return postage.  We also pride
+ ourselves on being the most affordable publication, as well as being
+ completely produced on Commodore equipment.  The Underground is
+ produced using geoPublish and a TI Laser printer, and reproduced on a
+ high-quality copy machine.  It appears regularly every other month.
+ Writers are encouraged to send articles in PETASCII or ASCII format
+ (1,000 words is recommended) on a disk, or directly to the editor's
+ e-mail box.  The Underground pays $5 per article.

+ Subscription rates: (All checks or money order in US funds)

+ Type of Subescription             US       Canada/  International
+                                            Mexico
+ one year subscription (6 issues)  $11.00   $12.50   $21.50
+ sample issue                      $2.00    $2.25    $3.75

  Commodore World

  Creative Micro Designs, Inc.
  P.O. Box 646
  East Longmeadow, MA  01028
  [phone] (Credit Card Orders)
  This is a new magazine that supersedes the RUN magazine.  It is packed
| with info about Commodore computers.

+ Subscription rates:

+ Type of Subescription             US       Canada/  EC       All Others
+                                            Mexico
+ one year subscription (8 issues)  $29.96   $35.95   $45.95   $57.97
+ sample issue + shipping           $6.95    $6.95    $8.95    $8.95

| Twin Cities 12864 (TC128/64)

  Twin Cities 128 (TC128)
  Parsec, Inc.
  PO BOX 111
  Salem MA 09170-0111, USA.
  Twin Cities 128 is (as of issue #29) published by Parsec, Inc.  It features
  Commodore 128 specific information, and attempts to cater to readers at all
  levels of experience, not just novices.  Additionally, starting with Issue
  #31(February/March 1991), Twin Cities 128 comes with a companion disk.

  Subscription rates: (All checks or money order in US funds)

+ Type of Subscription              US       Canada/  International
+                                            Mexico
+ one year subscription             $20.00   $26.00   $26.00
+ subscription with disk            $36.50   $46.50   $46.50

  dieHard

  dieHard subscriptions
  P.O. Box 392
  Boise, ID 83701-0392
  [phone] (Information)
  Magazine devoted to all 8-bit Commodore computers.

  Subscription rates:

+ Type of Subscription              US       Canada/  International
+                                            Mexico
+ one year subscription (10 issues) $16.97   $16.97   $16.97
+ subscription with SPINNER disk    $49.97   $49.97   $49.97

  Commodore Network

  Commodore Network Magazine
  Warren Naismith
  9 Wadeson
| St Cobram Victoria
| Australia  3150

+ In U.S.:

+ Jack Vander White
+ P.O. Box 232115
+ Sacremento, CA  95823

+ Starting 1/95 subscriptions will be available in the U.S. from Jack
+ Vander White at $40.00 per 12 issues.  This is the same as the local
+ price in Australia.  Back issues and Compendium volumes will be
+ advertised in the near future for U.S. subscribers.

  Subscription rates: (From Jack Vander White)

+ Type of Subscription              US       Canada/  International
+                                            Mexico
+ one year subscription (12 issues) $40.00

  Random (64/128 Magazine)

  Random
| 7161 North Maine
  Clovis, CA  93611-8200
  [e-mail] (Contact)
  [e-mail] (Contact)
  random-mag (GENIE Contact)
  [phone] (VoiceMail/Fascimilie)

+ Random is a professionally published magazine which is printed bi-monthly.
+ Each issue contains numerous articles on subjects affecting Commodore users
+ such as modemming, maximizing your system, the Internet, GEOS, the effects
+ of pirating and much more, along with countless columns on subjects such as
+ GEOS, BASIC and ML progamming, Late Breakin' News, reviews of the latest
+ Commodore commercial and shareware software and hardware, and much more.
+ We also produce the Commodore Support Index, and are currently selling the
+ remaining inventory of US Cities Volume One.(Sim City add-on).

+ Subscription rates:

+ Type of Subscription              US       Canada/  International
+                                            Mexico
+ one year subscription (6 issues)  $23.70   $23.70   $23.70
+ two year subscription (12 issues) $46.00   $46.00   $46.00
+ sample issue                      $ 5.00   $ 5.00   $ 5.00
+ one year subscription with disk   $35.70   $35.70   $35.70
+ two year subscription with disk   $71.40   $71.40   $71.40

  64'er (German)

  64'er (German)
  MagnaMedi Verlag AG
  PF 1304
  85531 Haar
  Germany
  [phone] (Voice)
  [phone] (Fascimile)
  [e-mail] (E-mail Address)
  [phone] (Bulletin Board System)

  Subscription price is:
                           99 DM/year for Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
                          123 DM/year for all others.
  Price includes 12 issues of 64 pages each and 12 program disks.

+ 8-bit
+ Atta Bitar (Anders Reuterswerd)
+ 82 66 75 - 1 (Orders and Information)
+ This is a Swedish magazine that tailors to Commodore 64 and 128 users.

+ Subscription price is:
+                          75 sek/year for Sweden (6 issues).
+                         100 sek/year for Scandinavia (6 issues).


  User Group Newsletters

  Your local user group newsletter is another source of commodore
  information.  Often, newsletters will reprint articles of other user
  groups, allowing information to spread further.  Many user group
  newsletters can be subscribed to in the mail.  (Is anyone interested in
  compiling a list of user group newsletters to which one can subscribe;
  send me mail at [e-mail].)

  Try these out first.

  The Main Commodore Club in the United Kingdom:

  Independent Commodore Products User Group
  PO Box 1309
  London, N3 2UT
  It supports all Commodore computers and has a software library for each
  of them. It also produces 6 Journals a year of approx 100 pages each.
  They have an Amateur Radio section in their c64 software library.

  NMCUG: New Mexico Commodore User's Group
  P.O. Box 37127
  Albuquerque, NM
  DIMensions newsletter.

  CHUG: Commodore Houston User's Group
  P.O. Box 441252
  Houston, TX  77244-1252
  ?SYNTAX newsletter

  BCS Commodore User's Group
  c/o The Boston Computer Society
  101-A First Avenue, Suite 2
  Waltham, MA  02154
  Edward Piecewicz, Secretary (Contact)
  [e-mail] (Information)
  A one year Associate membership for those outside Maine, Massachusetts,
  Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, ans New Hampshire, is $35.00 US. If
  inside, the cost is $39.00 US.  The membership includes the monthly
  magazine "BCS Magazine", which includes the Commodore newsletter.

  Brentwood Commodore Computer Club
  c/o Brentwood Public Library
  2nd Avenue and 4th Street
  Brentwood, NY  11717

  Capital Region Commodore Computer Club/LOAD CRCCC
  P.O. Box 2372
  Vernon, CT  06066

  Cheyenne Association of Computer Enthusiasts
  P.O. Box 1733
  Cheyenne, WY 82003

  FUNHUG
  814 Valley Run
  hercules, CA  94547-1440
  BBS Number: [phone]

  Louisville Users of Commodore of Kentucky/The LUCKY Report
  P.O. Box 9551
  Louisville, KY  40219-0551
  BBS Numberr: [phone]

  LUCKY LINE Magazine (LUCKY member Dale Sidebottom's own newsletter)
  c/o Dale Sidebottom
  P.O. Box 972
  New Albany, IN  47151-0972

  Lansing Area Commodore Club
  LACC membership
  P.O. Box 1065
  East Lansing, MI  48823-1065
  Membership dues are $15.00 US per year per family.  membership entitles you
  to receive the monthly newsletter and get PD software.

| Arizona Commodore User's Group (Input/Output)
  P.O. Box 27201
| Tempe, AZ  85285-7201
  One of the best newsletters around.

  Anchorage Commodore Users Group
  P.O. Box 104615
  Anchorage, AK  99510-4615

  Birmingham Commodore Club
  P.O. Box 59564
  Birmingham, AL  35259-9564

  C-128 West User's Group
  17407 Devanah Street
  Covine, CA  91722

  The Fresno Sixty-Fourum
  P.O. Box 16098
  Fresno, CA  93755

  Western Slope Commodore User Group
  P.O. Box 81
  Mack, CO  81525

  Commodore Computer Club of Jacksonville
  141 Mango Court
  MIddleburg, FL  32127

  Commodore Hawaii User's Group
  c/o M.N. Daniels
  46-329 Kumoo Loop
  Kaneohe, HI  96744-3532

  Champaign-Urbana Commodore User's Group (CUCUG)
  2010 West William
  Champaign, IL  61821

  Midwest Computer Users Group
  P.O. Box 9311
  Highland, IN  46322

  Commo-Hawk Commodore User's Group
  P.O. Box 2724
  Cedar Rapids, IA  52406-2724

  Michigan Commodore User's Group
  800 Lloyd
  Madison Heights, MI  48071-1915

  Commodore User's Group of Kansas City
  P.O. Box 36034
  Kansas City, MO  64111

  Lehigh Valley Commodore User's Group
  931 Lawrence Drive
  Emmaus, PA  18049

  Sioux Empire Commodore Club
  1932 South Menlo Avenue
  Sioux Falls, SD  57105-2717

  Commodore Houston User's Group
  P.O. Box 441252
  Houston, TX  77244-1252

  C64 Compendium
  P.O. Box 70
  Ringgold, VA  24586-0070

  Commodore Computer Club of Toledo
  P.O. Box 13011
  Toledo, OH  43613

  Commodore Home User Group of Wheeling (CHUG)
  81 Lynwood Avenue
  Wheeling, WV  26003

  Mountain Computer Society
  3898 Cheryl Street
  Salt Lake City, UT  84119-4682

  Peninsula Commodore User's Group
  P.O. Box 11293
  Newport News, VA  23601-9293

  Colorado Commodore Computer Club
  1192 South Nome Street
  Aurora, CO  80012
  [phone]
  Ron Snyder (Contact)

  Basic Bits Commodore Group
  P.O. Box 81886
  Cleveland, OH  44181-0886
  A great users group with a great newsletter.  $10.00 per year associate
  membership. $20.00 per year family membership.  Includes access to a
  large public domain library.

  Meeting 64/128 Users Through the Mail
  Route 7, Box 7614
  Palestine, TX  75801
  Francis Redmond, President
  [e-mail] (Contact)
  A very good users group. Has been around for 7 years. $15 per year
  includes monthly newsletter.

  PLUS4/C16 Users Group
  c/o Tony Ellis
  36 Western Highway
  Blaxland NSW  2774
  (047) 39 1528 (Voice)
  Specializes in the Plus/4 and Commodore 16.

+ Northwest Arkansas Commodore User's Group
+ P.O. Box 2925
+ Fayetteville, AR  72702-2925

+ Catalina Commodore Club, Inc.
+ P.O. Box 32548
+ Tucson, AZ  85751-2548

+ Central Coast Commodore User's Group
+ 3896 Berwyn Drive
+ Santa Maria,  CA  93455

+ Southeast San Diego C-64 User's Group
+ 258 Euclid Avenue #B
+ San Diego, CA  92114-3640

+ South Bay Commodore User's Group
+ P.O. Box 1176
+ Redondo Beach, CA  90278

+ FC C3
+ 1713 Valley Forge Avenue
+ Fort Collins, CO  80526

+ El-Shift-Oh, Incorporated
+ P.O. Box 361348
+ Melbourne, FL  32936-1348

+ Bloomington-Normal Commodore User's Group
+ P.O. Box 1058
+ Bloomington, IL  61702-1058

+ Ashtabula County Commodore User's Group
+ P.O. Box 415
+ Ashtabula, OH  44004

+ Tulsa Area Commodore User's Group
+ P.O. Box 53473
+ Tulsa, OK  74152-0473

+ Commodore Users of Bartlesville
+ 1920 Sante Fe
+ Bartlesville, OK  74003

+ Lane County Commodore User's Group
+ P.O. Box 11316
+ Eugene, OR 97440

+ Commodore Users of Lynchburg
+ 238 Twin Oak Drive
+ Lynchburg, VA  24502

+ Southtown User's Group
+ West Seneca Road
+ West Seneca, NY

+ PCUG
+ P.O. Box 6561
+ Portsmouth, VA,  23703

+ PBUG
+ 417 West Phirne Road
+ Glenburnie, MD  21061

+ LVCUG
+ P.O. Box 2
+ New Tripoli, PA  18066-0002

+ UWCUG
+ P.O. Box 25878
+ Seattle, WA  98125

+ CHLB
+ P.O. Box 7293
+ Long Beach, CA  90805

+ Corning Glass Works User Group
+ 3708 Street Route 271 West
+ Greenville, OH  45331

+ MDC/RCC ComSIG
+ P.O. Box 34088
+ St. Louis, MO  63134

+ MCUGA
+ 5027 Vera Cruz Avenue North
+ Crystal, MN  55429

+ Western Slope User Group
+ P.O. Box 81
+ Mack, CO  81525

+ SWRAP/64 Incorporated
+ P.O. Box 342
+ Bedford Park, IL  60499-0342

+ Pittsburgh Commodore Group
+ P.O. Box 16126
+ Pittsburgh, PA  15242
+ [phone] (Bulletin Board System)
+ WWW http://monami.psc.edu/

+ CHUG
+ P.O. Box 404
+ Fremont, CA  94537

+ CWEST
+ 3462B 17th Street
+ San Francisco, CA  94110

+ 64/MORE
+ P.O. Box 612794
+ San Jose, CA  95161-2794

+ Arrowscape
+ 301 West Ray Drive
+ Hattiesburg, MS  39402-1046

+ C=Humboldt User Group
+ P.O. Box 6502
+ Eureka, CA  95502

+ TCCUG
+ c/o Vestal Library
+ Vestal, NY  13850

+ OCCC
+ 1855 Park Avenue
+ Costa Mesa, CA

+ Abilene Cursor Control
+ P.O. Box 6261
+ Abilene, TX  79608

| South Toledo Commodore Computer Club (STCCC)
+ P.O. Box 3167
+ Toledo, OH  43607

+ SMUG
+ P.O. Box 1762
+ Lilburn, GA  30226

+ S.I.C.K.
+ 818 East Main Street
+ Olney, IL  62450

+ ACUG
+ P.O. Box 3095
+ Burlington, NC  27215

+ North Viginia Commodore
+ 9206 Annhurst Street
+ Fairfax, VA  22031-1902

+ ACUG
+ P.O. Box 27201
+ Tempe AZ, 85285-7201

+ The Register
+ P.O. Box 52473
+ Tulsa, OK  74152-0473

+ COMBUG
+ 48A Old Lyme Avenue
+ Williamsville, NY  14221

+ Fox Valley Computer User Group
+ P.O. Box 28
+ North Aurora, IL  60542-0028

+ OPUG
+ 1415 South Cherry Street
+ Port Angeles, WA  98362

+ CVCUG
+ 19 Sandlewood Road
+ Burlington, VT  05403

+ MWCUG
+ P.O. Box 9311
+ Highland, IN  46322

+ New Dimensions
+ P.O. Box 37127
+ Albuquerque, NM  87176

+ GCUG
+ 11340 Rambling Road
+ Gaithersburg, MD  20879

+ Twin Tier Commodore Club
+ 512 Jefferson Street
+ Elmira, NY  14904

+ Stockton Commodore User Group
+ 714 East Oak Street
+ Stockton, CA  95202-2229

+ BCS C-User's Group
+ 101 First Avenue
+ Waltham, MA  02154

+ Warren Kazakiewich
+ P.O. Box 77
+ West Wardsboro, VT  05368

+ CCC of Columbia
+ 2800 Cliffside Drive
+ Columbia, SC  29053

+ Saskatoon User's Group
+ 2614 Ahaultain Avenue
+ Saskatoon, SK  S7J1R6
+ Canada

+ Computers North
+ P.O. Box 34534
+ North Kansas City, MO  64116

+ CPU
+ 5168 East 65th Street
+ Indianapolis, IN

+ Crash 64
+ P.O. Box 241
+ Salem, OR  97308

+ Beach Computers
+ Highway A1A
+ Satellite Beach, FL

+ CUGV
+ P.O. Box 3325
+ Venice, FL  34293

+ VCUG
+ 2807 Northeast 99th Street
+ Vancouver, WA  98665

+ Classic 64 Preservation Society
+ 660 Walton Drive
+ Red Bluff, CA  96080

+ RACUG
+ 920 Mayowood Road Southwest
+ Rochester, MN  55902

+ C.O.O.K.Y
+ 3807 Krysta Lane
+ Oboro, KY  43202

+ CWSAT
+ P.O. Box 380732
+ San Antonio, TX  78280

+ PCUG
+ P.O. Box 11293
+ Newport News, VA  23601-9293

+ TCCUG
+ P.O. Box 8439
+ Topeka, KS  66608

+ GOCUG
+ 13 East Bayshore Blvd.
+ Jacksonville, NC 28540

+ PAPUG
+ 2508 North Rockwood Drive
+ Peoria, IL  61614

+ CUGOS
+ P.O. Box 607
+ Sprigfield, MO  65801

+ Harlingen Commodore User Group
+ 1900 Grace
+ Harlingen, TX  78550

+ S.U.C.C.E.S.S.
+ 110 Grace Drive
+ Pasa Robles, CA  93446

+ Commodore User's Group, Ames Region
+ P.O. Box 2302
+ Ames, IA  50010-2302

+ Acadiana Commodore Computer Club
+ 416 Dale Street
+ Lafayette, LA  70501

+ Down River Commodore Group
+ P.O. Box 1277
+ Southgate, MI  48195

+ Rancocas Valley Users Group
+ 806 Windsor Drive
+ Cinnaminson, NJ  08077-3717

+ Brentwood Commodore Computer Club
+ c/o Public Library
+ 2nd & 4th Street
+ Brentwood, NY  11711

+ Hudson Valley Commodore Club
+ c/o G.T. Gallagher
+ 620 Plainfield Street
+ Kingston, NY  12401

+ Metroplex Commodore Computer Group
+ P.O. Box 813
+ Bedford, TX  76095

+ University of Washington CCUG
+ P.O. Box 25878
+ Seattle, WA  98125

+ Arkansas Commodore Enthusiasts (ACE)
+ 2026 B Nichols Road
+ Little Rock, AR  72205
+ [phone] (Bulletin Board System)

+ Busy Bee User Group
+ P.O. Box 3
+ Arivaca, AZ  85601-0003

+ The Clearwater Commodore Club, Inc.
+ P.O. Box 11211
+ Clearwater, FL  34616

+ Fredricksburg Commodore Club
+ 6803 Teal Court
+ Spotsylvania, VA  22553

+ Greater Omaha User Group
+ P.O. Box 241155
+ Omaha, NE  68124-1155

+ Commodore User's Association (CUA)
+ P.O. Box 84
+ Medford, OR  97524

+ Tri-City Commodore Computer Club (TC-Cubed)
+ P.O. Box 224
+ Richland, WA  99352-0224

+ Valley Computer Club
+ P.O. Box 310
+ Denair, CA  95316

+ MPCUG
+ P.O. Box 391
+ Gloucester, VA  23061

+ Commodore Users of Wichita
+ c/o Robert C. Bales
+ 1201 East 61st Street North
+ Park City, KS  67219-1947
+ [phone]

+ Diablo Valley Commodore User's Group
+ P.O. Box 27155
+ Concord, CA  94527

+ Manasota Commodore User's Group
+ P.O. Box 698
+ Oneco, FL  34264-6618

+ Sun Coast Commodore Club
+ c/o 7034 Mayfield Drive
+ Port Richey, FL  34668

+ Gold City Computer users Group
+ P.O. Box 257
+ Fort Knox, KY  40121

+ New Orleans Commodore Klub-64/128
+ P.O. Box 1997
+ Metaire, LA  70004-1997

+ Cincinnati Commodore Computer Club (CCCC)
+ 5575 Pleasant Hill Road
+ Milford, OH  45150

+ Northern NY Commodore Home Users Group
+ c/o Garden Dtreet
+ Pottsdam, NY  13662

+ Hamilton Commodore users Group
+ P.O. Box 20202, Upper James P.O.
+ Hamilton, Ontario  L9C7M5

+ Kapiti Commodore Users' Group
+ 23 Weggery Drive
+ Waikanae, New Zealand


  6.2.  What is a Disk Magazine?  Where do I find them?

  A disk magazine is a publication that comes out as a text file(s) on a
  diskette.  You load the reader program on a computer and view the magazine
  on the computer screen.

  CEE-64 Alive!

  CEE-64 Alive!
  P.O. Box 232115
  Sacramento, CA 95823
  EMAIL Jack [e-mail] (Contact)
+ Jack Vanderwhite, editor.
+ Fidonet: 1:203/999
+ [phone] (Bulletin Board System)

+ The magazine operates a Bulletin Board for subscribers.  However, anyone
+ can log on or download on first access.  Speeds range from 300-14400 bps.
+ the bulletin board maintains over 2000 files for the C64 and C128.

+ Back Issue Information:

+ Volume 1/1992   5 issues             $20.00
+ Volume 2/1993   6 issues             $25.00
+ Volume 3/1994   6 issues (15 disks)  $30.00

+ Starting 1/95 the magazine will cahnge names to COMMODORE CEE to reflect a
+ change to cover the C64, C128, Plus/4, and other Commodore computers.

+ Subscription Information:

+ Volume 1/1995   6 issues (18 disks)  $36.00

+ Distibutor of both PD and original software in a catlog with magazines and
+ demo issue.  Distributes the Australian Commodore Network magazine.

| LOADSTAR 64 Monthly and LOADSTAR 128 Quarterly

  SOFTDISK PUBLISHING
  P.O. BOX 30008
  SHREVEPORT, LA  71130-00008
  Jeff Jones (Associate Editor)
  EMAIL: [e-mail] (Contact)
  [phone] (Phone)
  [phone] (Fascimile)
  [phone] (Bulletin Board System)
+ Two disk magazines that feature C64/C128 programs, articles, news, music,
+ and graphics.  Available on 3.5" and 5.25" disks.  The 64 magazine is
+ currently offering a risk-free issue.  Just call and sign up.  Cancel if
+ you are not satisfied.

+ LOADSTAR pays a premium price for programs and is looking for good C64
+ and 128 programmers.  LOADSTAR also pays for articles.  Call for a risk-free
+ issue.  Each issue contains programmer's guidelines in a file called
+ LOADSTAR BRIEFS.


   6.3.  What is an Online Magazine?  Where do I find them?

  An online magazine is one which exists in a text file format and can be
  downloaded like a regular file off the network by the user for browsing
  and/or printing.

  Usenet C= Hacking Magazine

  An on-line magazine written by denizens of comp.sys.cbm, this features
  in-depth technical programming information on C64 and C128 computers.  The
  editor of C= Hacking is Craig Taylor ([e-mail]).  The
  issues of C= Hacking can be found on ccnga.uwaterloo.ca in the directory
  /pub/cbm/hacking.mag.  Back issues can be gotten from Craig Taylor's
  mail server.  He also posts a summary notice each month with what is
  currently there.

+ Other places the C= Hacking mag can be found:

+ http://www.hut.fi/~msmakela/cbm/hacking/


   7. Exchanging Data

   7.1.  Can I read IBM(tm) disks?

  Commodore computers use a disk format which is not compatible with the
  disk formats of other computers.  However, some programs exist which allow
  you to read foreign, specifically MS-DOS, disks.  Note that in general to
  do this, you must have either a 1571 or 1581 disk drive.  The 1541 cannot
  read MS-DOS disks without some hardware modifications.

  A commercial package, The Big Blue Reader, from SOGWAP software, runs on
  either a 64 or a 128, will read and write MS-DOS format 3.5" (with a 1581)
  and 5.25" (with a 1571) disks.

  Other freely distributable programs exist to read and write 5.25" MS-DOS
  disks.  One such program is Crosslink, (available on ccnga.uwaterloo.ca
  although it is limited to reading files 43K in size or smaller.  Finally,
  there are a few CP/M MS-DOS reading utilities that work in the C128's CP/M
  mode.

  RUN magazine (4/89 to 6/89) published a series of programs that would use
  1571/1581 drives to transfer MS-DOS files to and from a C= drive.  It is
  also limited in file size handling ~43-44K.

  Issues 4 and 5 of C= Hacking magazine presented a program called Little
  Red Reader for the 128 that will copy files to and from MS-DOS floppy
  disks.  The menu-driven program requires two disk drives to work, where the
  one containing the MS-DOS disk must be a 1571 or 1581 (or compatible).  The
  program does not buffer data internally, so the only size restriction on
  copying is the capacity of the target disk.  The program provides PETSCII/
  ASCII conversion but will work only with the root directories of MS-DOS
  disks.  The program is also available via FTP and is FREE.

  To read and write to MS-DOS disks with 1541 disk drives you have to make a
  small hardware modification. The 1541-dos package contains instructions on
  how to modify Commodore 1541 and Oceanic OC-118/OC-118N disk drives, and
  programs to read disks in MS-DOS format and to write to disks in a format
  that can be read by MS-DOS computers.  The newest version of the package is
  available via anonymous ftp on ftp.funet.fi in /pub/cbm/documents/1541-dos.


   7.2.  Can my IBM(tm) computer read Commodore disks?

  To read CBM disks on an IBM, you can use the program x1541 available on
  ccnga.uwaterloo.ca in /pub/cbm/emulation.  This program uses the PC parallel
  port to emulate a C= serial port.  You need to have a unique cable built to
  make the connection.  The cable is connected to a 1541 drive.
  The documentation has a schematic for the cable.

  Also, if you own a Commodore 1581, there is a PC program which can read
  1581 formatted disks.  It is called 22DSK13.


   7.3.  Are there other ways to exchange data between computers?

  NULL Modems

  If you are transferring data to another computer (e.g. a PC) in the same
  room, or if you are lucky enough to have a terminal server line near your
  64/128(more and more colleges are putting such beasts in dorm rooms), you
  be able to connect your serial port directly to another computer.  If you
  have a terminal server port, all you need is a C= RS232 to standard RS232
  adapter (see 9.8).  If you are connecting to another, PC, you will also
  need a null modem.  A null modem is a simple device that you can buy for
  less than $10.  It typically is a small box with a 25-pin (or 9-pin) RS232
  connector on either side.  Put it somewhere in the line between your C= and
  the other PC.

+ TransNib

+ The TransNib 1.00 package for Amiga allows transferring files
+ C64<->Amiga at up to 60000 bps. It uses a parallel<->user port cable that
+ currently transfers 4bits at a time. Uses 2-way handshaking. 2 versions
+ of the 64software are in the archive. Requires a disk drive. 1541
+ fastloader compatible. The Amiga side software can be run from shell of
+ WB, multitasks fine and has nice simple GUI."

+ For more information, get the archive from ftp.wustl.edu,
+ /systems/amiga/aminet/misc/emu/TransNib100.lha


   8. Operating Systems

   8.1.  What Operating Systems are available?

  Well, Commodore computers come with a standard operating system
  built in ROM. They also contain a built in BASIC interpreter which is
  normally activated after switching on or resetting the computer.
  If you want alternative options to replace the existing OS, there are a few
  that may suit your needs.  GEOS is the best known, but a number of people
  have made UNIX-like operating system replacements for the Commodore 64 and
  128.  Also, on the 128, CP/M is available out-of-the-box. (see below for
  details on different OS types.)


   8.2.  What is GEOS?

  GEOS stands for Graphical Environment Operating System.  It is a Graphical
  User Interface (GUI) style of OS, and it brings to the Commodore 64 and 128
  integrated applications.  The graphical nature of GEOS allows applications
  to use fonts of any size, bitmaps, and menus and mice.  The system was
  Designed by Berkeley Softworks, now GEOWorks, and is supported now by CMD.
  There are a number of graphical style GEOS applications, like GEOWrite,
  GEOPaint, GEOPublish, GEOTerm, etc.  The system is very easy to use, and
  is very fast, even when compared to other GUIs like Windows and OS/2.

  GEOS can make very effective use of a Ram Expansion Unit, a RAMDrive or
  RAMLink, or GEORam.  GEOS allows you to configure your REU to appear just
  like another (very fast) disk drive, although it does not keep its contents
  when you turn your computer off.  So, any GEOS software that works off of
  a disk will work out of your REU.  Since GEOS is very disk-intensive, this
  greatly improves the performance of your system.  Indeed, some firm GEOS
  adherents have said that they would not use GEOS without a RAM device of
  some sort.

  GEOS will not work with a stock 1700.  To have a RAM drive, in GEOS, you
  must have at least 256K of expansion.  Thanks to patches developed by Jim
  Collette(configure2.1), GEOS also supports 1 Meg, 1.5 Meg, and 2 Meg REUs.

  GEOS files are structured differently from standard Commodore files.  They
  cannot be uploaded or downloaded directly.  Before you upload a GEOS file,
  use the freeware GEOS application convert2.5 by W.C. Coleman to convert it
  to Commodore format.  When you download a GEOS file, you must use the same
  program to convert it to GEOS format.  By convention, GEOS format files
  converted to standard Commodore format have a .cvt on the end; however,
  many converted GEOS files just have the same name as the original GEOS file.
  As a rule of thumb, any GEOS file you download, regardless of the extension,
  must be converted to GEOS format with convert2.5.

  If you download an archive of GEOS files (e.g. a .arc or .sda file
  containing GEOS files), you must first dissolve the archive using your C64
  or C128 in native mode.  The constituents of the archive will be converted
  GEOS files, whether or not they have the .cvt extension.  Each of these
  constituents (which are GEOS files) must be individually converted to GEOS
  format with convert2.5.

  If you need some help with GEOS or any aspect of it, I refer you to Myles
  Skinner at [e-mail].  He is one of many people who use GEOS
  every day and can be of help.


   8.3.  What is UNIX?

  UNIX is an OS that was developed by Bell Laboratories in the 1960's and
  is now used on many workstations.  It is a multi-user, multi-process
  OS that has extensive support from the educational and commercial
  communities.  Internet and Usenet are primarily a collection of UNIX
  workstations networked together.  The UNIX-like OS replacements for
  Commodore computers mainly emulate the shell of UNIX, where programs are
  run by merely typing in their name.  Other aspects of UNIX, such as
  multiple processes are supported by some of the offering, which are:

       Asterix. - A UNIX-Look-and-feel Shell replacement for 64

       UNIX128. - A small implementation of UNIX for the 128.

       ACE 128/64. - A new offering which borrows the UNIX shell look for 64
       and 128.  It is available at ftp.funet.fi in /pub/cbm/csbruce.


  8.4.  What is CP/M

  CP/M stands for Control Program for Microcomputers and is available on
  every Commodore 128.  There is also a CP/M cartridge available for the
  Commodore 64, but it cannot read CP/M disks, just 1541 formatted disks, and
  there are questions concerning its ability to work with all revisions
  of the Commodore 64.  CP/M was very popular in the early eighties before
  MS-DOS became popular.  It requires a Z-80 microprocessor, which the 128
  has, or an 8080 processor, and a disk drive capable of reading CP/M disks,
  such as the 1571.  If you don't need to read existing CP/M formatted disks,
  then a 1541 could also be used.  This operating system is the one that
  MS-DOS was modeled after, so there are a lot of similarities.  If you are
  interested in using CP/M as your primary OS, then please check out the
  newsgroup comp.os.cpm, as they have more info on the current events
  concerning CP/M.

  The version of CP/M used on the 128 is 3.0, commonly called CP/M Plus.
  It is compatible with earlier versions of CP/M but adds some new features.
  The copy of CP/M 3.0 that ships with the 128 was specially modified to allow
  use of the features of the 128, such as the Ram Expansion Unit as a RAM
  disk, the SID chip, and the extra RAM of the 128.

  In the March,1994 issue of dieHard, Mike Gordillo gave an overview of the
  CP/M operating system.  It is one of many such articles that should be read
  by anyone new to CP/M.


   9. Enhancements

   9.1.  How do I increase my disk drive's transfer speed?

  Fastloaders

  The Commodore 1541 drive and any drive attached to a VIC-20, C64, Plus 4,
  C116, or C16 suffer from very slow read and write times.  This is caused
  by Commodore's haste in "economizing" the IEEE-488 bus used in the PET
  series of Commodore computers into the serial bus.  The IEEE-488 bus
  transferred 8 bits of data at a time, and performed some synchronization
  steps, or handshaking, between bytes.  Commodore reduced the path to 1 bit
  but kept most of the original handshaking, most of which is redundant when
  transferring 1 bit at a time.  Early on, some developers noted that, since
  the 1541 drive was intelligent enough to execute a program loaded into its
  RAM, and the Commodore operating system calls to do disk I/O could be
  bypassed, they could write software that sped up the loading process by
  modifying or completely changing the protocol used on the serial bus.  This
  is the idea behind fastload cartridges like FastLoad, Mach 5, etc...

  Now, as programs became more complex, some programs would not operate with
  this approach.  Thus, the developers then rewrote parts of the Commodore
  operating system on both the computer and the disk drive, and replaced the
  parts of them that did disk I/O with new pieces of code.  This is the idea
  behind JiffyDos and others.

  The basic idea in speeding up the disk drive is to use more than 1 line
  to transfer data, effectively doubling the transfer speed.  Then, reduce
  synchronization requirements in the protocol to a bare minimum, as
  synchronizing time is time not being used to do transfers.

  The fastload cartridges are handicapped somewhat by the need to transfer
  the portion of the program that runs in the disk drive to the drive using
  the slow speed evry time the drive is used.  This can be alleviated
  somewhat, but the replacement operating system replacement products like
  JiffyDos win the race since they do not need to load code into the drive,
  as it is already there.

  The products are not 100% compatible, as they sacrifice reliability for
  speed somewhat.  That means that a program that does not load due to an
  error while using a fastload product will probably load without the
  fastloading enabled.  Also, some programs can not handle the change in
  loading or reading speed, so these enhancements yield about 90%
  compatibility.

  You can also increase the speed of disk drive operation by organizing
  consecutive parts of a file on disk to fall a certain number of disk
  sectors apart.  This is called the interleave or interleaving factor.
  Normally, a 1541 disk drive space consecutive parts of a file 10 sectors
  apart, but you can change that a little to minimize the time needed to find
  consecutive parts of a file.

  Also, the C128 in 128 mode hooked up to a 1571 or 1581 has a built-in
  fastloading scheme called burst loading.  Therefore, if you are in 128 mode
  and hooked up to a 1581 or a 1571, you already have this feature.  However,
  the 128 in 64 mode reverts back to the old slow serial routines, and the 128
  in any mode using a 1541 cannot use the burst load routines.


   9.2.  How do I expand my disk drive's capacity?

  CMD sells hard drives for the Commodore 64 and 128.  They range in sizes
  from 50 Megabytes to 200 Megabytes.

  You can also expand your disk drives on board RAM capacity, and use that extra
  memory for better archiving performance.

  Software Support International sells the 1541 RAMBoard, which will increase
  you 1541's memory.  SSI used to market a similar board for the 1571, but they
  have depleted stock and no longer carry it.

| If you have access to an IBM of some kind (preferrably with a hard drive),
| you can use a product called 64NET to hook the drive up to the Commodore.
| 64NET consists of a cable which connects the CBM User Port and the IBM
| Parallel Port together, and a program that runs on both machines.  The
| program on the IBM is a standard application, but the CBM part is a wedge,
| so it should integrate seamlessly with some programs.  There is now just
| one copy of the product.  Registered users simply receive a 64NET.KEY
| file that enables SAVING.  There is a student discount of AUS$40.00.

| The product is at version 1.68.03 BETA and has full OPEN/CLOSE/READ/READST
  support, can support 4 gigabyte IBM partitions, and have a built-in
  off-board monitor which includes some dos wedge functions. The
  IBM programs have link-based helpsystems and will run on any IBM
  machine.  The registered version allows saving of files, wheras the PD
  version does not.

+ The registered BETA version is available (with upgrade to final version
+ free) for AUS$50.00, while the unregistered version is free.  These
+ prices do not include the cable that is required for operation.  The cable,
+ program, and more information can be received from Paul Gardner-Stephen at
+ [e-mail].  Also, the system can be ordered from:

+ In Europe:

+ Performance Peripherals Europe
+ Germany
+ [phone]

+ Michael Renz
+ [phone]

+ And in Australia from:

+ Russell Alphey
+ [phone] (A/H
+ [e-mail]

+ Paul Gardner-Stephen
+ [phone] (A/H)

+ The C128 version is close to completion, as is a version for the C65.


   9.3.  How do I expand my computer's RAM capacity?

  C1700/1764/1750

  The original form of RAM expansion available to the C64 and C128 were the
  Commodore REUs (Ram Expansion Units).  These REUs plug into the cartridge
  port, and provide 128K (the C=1700), 256K (the C=1764), or 512K (the C=1750)
  of additional RAM.

  This RAM is not true system RAM however; simply adding a 512K REU to your
  system does NOT mean that your word processor will suddenly be able to edit
  512K larger documents.  A REU will only be used by a program that was
  written to take advantage of an REU.  As a caveat on this, you can use your
  REU as additional RAM for a RAMLink .

  An REU can be used as a Commodore Disk Drive by running the program
  RAMDOS.  This will allow users to save and load files from the REU.

  If you are using CP/M, the REU can be configured to act like a disk drive
  under CP/M.

  Although the C=1764 was originally advertised for the C64, and the 1700 and
  1750 for the C128, any of the three RAM expanders will work with either the
  C64 or the C128.  Note that if you want to use any of them on the C64, you
  need a heavy duty power supply.  The 1764 comes with such a power supply.

  There are hardware hacks that will expand a 1700 or a 1764 to 512K;
  additionally, a 512K REU can be expanded to 1 Meg or more.  See /pub/cbm/
  hardware on ccnga.uwaterloo.ca.  If you don't wish to do it yourself, there
  are people who will do it for you, for a fee.  While it appears completely
  safe to upgrade your REU to 1 Meg, there have been some reports of problems
  with REU's upgraded to 2 Megs.  Sometimes the REU will work fine for a while,
  then fail.  If you are upgrading your REU, it would probably be wise to stop
  at 1 Meg.  If you are still memory hungry, consider a CMD RAMLink or RAMDrive.

  The following individual will do RAM expansions on the 17xx series. He
  Has lots of experience doing these modifications. His current quoted price
  for expanding a 1750 from 512k to 1 meg is $60. Call for the latest prices.
  In addition he can do repairs on the RAM.

  Raymond Day
  9601 Morton Taylor Road
  Belleville, MI 48111-1328
  GEnie email r.day
  [phone]

  On a similar note, Software Support International sells a device called
  the 1751 clone, which functions just like a 1750.  It is not as expandable
  as the real 1750, but can be used where a 1750 is recommended or required.

  geoRAM

  When Commodore REUs became hard to find several years back, Berkeley
  Softworks introduced geoRAM, which is a 512K RAM expander.  This RAM
  expander gives you all of the advantages of a 1750 with GEOS.  However, it is
  not 1750 compatible, so it will not work like a 1750 outside of GEOS; it is
  transparent to other programs.  (As a caveat on this, see the info on
  RAMLink)).  DesTerm128 2.0 will not work with a geoRAM plugged in.  A
  special version of GEOS 2.0 (which is bundled with geoRAM) is necessary to
  use geoRAM.  No additional power supply is necessary to use geoRAM.  The
  geoRAM can be upgraded to 2MB also.  Contact Jens-Michael Gross at
  [e-mail] for information on upgrading the geoRAM.

  The geoRAM can be used without GEOS if it is installed in a RAMDrive or
  RAMLink.  See below for details.

+ BBGRam

+ Battery Backed GeoRam is a products marketed by Performance Peripherals
+ International, and distributed by both them and other retailers, like
+ LynnCarthy Industries, Incorporated.  The unit is actually a geoRAM
+ clone, but has battery backup included within the unit.  The unit can be
+ ordered in the following configurations:

+ 512kBytes     $92.97US
+ 1MBytes      $123.97US
+ 2MBytes      $165.97US

  RAMDrive, RAMLink

  RAMDrive (RD) and RAMLink (RL) are RAM devices from CMD.  The
  RAM in these devices can be partitioned into native mode partitions (with
  dynamically allocated subdirectories), or competely 1541, 1571, or 1581
  emulating partitions.  Thanks to the 15x1 emulating partitions, software
  does not have to be specifically written to run with a RD or a RL. These
  RAM devices should appear as a disk drive to most programs.  One notable
  exception is DesTerm v2.00, which does not work with RD or RL.  There are
  few other exceptions, and no major commercial program has a problem running
  with RL or RD.  The deciding factor seems to be whether or not the program
  uses a drive's internal ram.  RL and RD do not `mimic' having this type of
  internal drive ram, and if a program relies upon this it will not run.  The
  heavily copy protected Digital Solutions' programs use this drive ram for
  its burst loading routines.  So, even though a Maverick/RamBoard combination
  will write a copy to it to RL, it will fail to boot.  However, these
  programs, once booted from a 1571, will use and access all of RL's many
  functions for lightening fast loads and saves.

  RD and RL both have their own power sources, separate from the computer.
  When you turn off the computer, the power to the RAM device is left on,
  leaving its contents intact.  This power supply always remains on.  (For
  safety from power outages, battery backups are also available.)

  RAMLink is a powerful, large device.  It can be configured from 0 to
  up to 16 Megs of RAM, using industry standard 1x8 (100ns) 1 Meg and 4 Meg
  SIMMs.(1x9, and faster Simms can be used.)  The RL is constructed so that
  the user may easily add additional SIMMs at any time.

  RAMLink has a port into which you can plug a Commodore REU or a geoRAM.
  You can configure RAMLink to either leave this RAM device alone, or to use
  the REU/geoRAM's RAM just as if it were part of the RAMLink's RAM.  A
  RAMLink also has a pass-through port, in which you can plug a normal
  C64/C128 cartridge, and a parallel port for a CMD hard drive.  The latter
  greatly improves the transfer speed of data between your computer and the
  hard drive.

  RAMDrive is no longer sold by CMD, since it wasn't much less expensive than
  the RAMLink, and it was not expandable.  However, there are still RAMDrives
  in many sizes from 1 to 4 MB available on the used market.  They are great
  for people who know they will need too much expansion, and the price of a
  RAMLink is more than they can spend.

  If you have a geoRAM, the geoRAM can be plugged into the RL or RD.  the
  geoRAM then acts as an extra piece of ram-based disk storage.

  Both RD and RL come with a very well documented, thorough, and easily
  referenced User Manual.  Contact CMD for more details.

+ Nhat-Viet Phi is compiling a list of RAMLink and RAMDrive owners around the
+ world.  The resulting list comprises the RAMLink User's Group (RUG), and
+ those individuals are called "RUG-Bees".  Email [e-mail] for
+ more information or inclusion in the group.

  C128 Video RAM

  The original, "flat" C128's came with an 80 column display that had it's own
  display RAM that was separate from the system memory of the computer.  This
  "VDC RAM" was 16K in size.  After Commodore introduced the C128D, they
  changed the design and marketed some versions of the Commodore 128D with
  64K of VDC RAM.  Since them, some programs (e.g. I-Paint, Dialogue128)
  have come out that either need or support 64K of VDC RAM.  Owners of flat
  128's can upgrade their video RAM to 64K either by ordering an upgrade
  plug-in board(e.g. from Software Support International), or by replacing the
  RAM chips themselves.  All that needs to be done is, the two 4416 RAM chips
  next to the VDC chip need to be replaced with 4464 RAM chips.  Note,
  however, that since this involves soldering in tight quarters on your 128's
  motherboard, it is very easy to damage the motherboard or the nearby VDC
  chip.  Whenever you wish to use the extra RAM, be sure to set bit 4 in the
  VDC register 28 (0 = 16kB, 1 = 64kB).

  Expanded C64's

  THE TRANSACTOR magazine published two articles written by Paul Bosacki on
  expanding the Commodore 64.  The first article (in Transactor 9.2) described
  how to expand the 64 to 256kB by swapping RAM chips and contained switches
  to perform some special options.  The second (in Transactor 9.6) describes
  how to expand the Commodore 64 to 1MB, using a 512kB REU and 512kB on the
  motherboard.  In additiopn, this expansion needs no switches to enable
  options, which is an enhancement to the first article.

  The Nordic/Finnish MicroBITTI magazine published a two part article by Pekka
  Pessi on expanding the Commodore 64.  Pessi's design (in MicroBITTI Issues
  1 and 2 for 1987) split the C64 memory map into 4 16kB pages, which could be
  each mapped to any 16kB page in 256kB of memory.  It uses the same approach
  of swapping the 64kB DRAMs for 256kB ones, but does the addressing somewhat
  differently.

  In 1993, Marko Makela, with help from Pekka Pessi, translated Pessi's
  article into English and made it available via the Internet.  It is now
  available from nic.funet.fi in the directory /pub/cbm/documents/256kB.

  Expanded C128's

  Marko Makela has written an article on how to expand the C128 and C128D's
  memory up to 1024kB.  It is compatible with his earlier article on expanding
  the C64 to 256kB, so programs written for the expanded 64 should run on the
  expanded 128 in 64 mode.  The plan and schematic is available via ftp
  from nic.funet.fi in directory /pub/cbm/documents/1028.

  The C-256 and C-512

  Twin Cities 128  issues #30 and #31 have a hardware scheme for expanding
  your 128 to 256K or 512K.  To people who understand banking on the 128, the
  256K modification adds RAM blocks 2 and 3 to your system.  The 512K
  modification adds four more RAM blocks that can be accessed as alternate RAM
  blocks 2 and 3, or as a completely separate set of RAM blocks 0-3.

  As with Commodore REUs, software must specifically support the expanded RAM.
  Since these modifications are relatively new, there is not much software out
  yet that supports the additional RAM.  However, ACE 128 does support this
  expansion without any special drivers.

  The hardware modification, while simple from software's point of view, is
  rather difficult to perform in hardware.  Richard Curcio, the designer of
  the memory modifications, can modify your 128 for you.  See Twin Cities 128
  issue #31 for more information.



   9.4.  How do I increase my computer's speed?

  There are a number of products that can increase the operating speed of
  the Commodore 64.  These products work by turning off the on-board 6510
  and turning on a compatible microprocessor, usually a 65C02 or a 65C816
  in 6502 emulation mode.  These products will work with any software that
  does not mind running up to 4 times faster and does not use any of the
  undocumented opcodes of the 6502 IC.

  Commodore 64 Accelerators:

  Please note that some of these products are no longer offered for sale
  by the original companies, but can be purchased from individuals as used
  equipment.

  Turbo Master Accelerator for C64.

  The Turbo Master Accelerator is for a C64 (or C64 mode of C128) only, uses
  a Rockwell R65C02P4 microprocessor clocked at 4.09 MHz, has its own 64K of
  fast static RAM and a 32K EPROM, has hardware/software switchable speed
  between 4.09 and normal, and has an enhanced ROM with faster disk routines
  that can also be disabled.  A JiffyDOS compatibility option was available.

  Turbo Process Accelerator for the C64.

  This accelerator, made by Rossm"oller, uses a 65C816P-4 microprocessor
  to operate the 64 at three speeds: 1MHz, 4 MHz, or anything between 50kHz
  and 4 MHz.  The 65C816 is a 16 bit version of the 6502/6510, so it is
  possible to write software for the new IC that takes advantage of the 16
  bit opcodes.

  Flash 8

+ This accelerator, the only one being currently produced, is also the
+ fastest such accelerator for the Commodore 64 to date.  The module,
+ which plugs into the expansion port of the Commodore 64, increases
+ the CPU processing speed fro 1MHz to 8MHz.  From the advertisement:

+   "FLASH 8 is a GEOS-compatible module for the expansionport with a 65816
+    CPU that speeds the C64 to 8Mhz by highest compatibility with existing
+    software.  Additionally to the original Commodore Kernal a JiffyDos
+    kernal is available. You can choose between two different kernals via
+    DIP-switch.  Flash 8 comes either with 256 Kbyte or 1 Mbyte RAM onboard.

+    A CP/M-emulator for running Z80-CP/M-Software, a macro-library and
+    assembler for the 65816 in native-mode are included."

+ The prices are:

  349 DM (~$180.00 US) for the unit with 256kB RAM.
  450 DM (~$210.00 US) for the unit with 1MB RAM.

  It is being manufactured and sold by:

  Discount 2000
+ Wisenpfad 1
  Tombergstrasse 12a
| D-53340 Meckenheim, Germany
  +49/2225/701834 (Information)
  +49/2225/13360 (Information)
  +49 2225/10193 (Fascimile)

  It uses a 65816 CPU (The 65816 is a descendant of the 65XX series) running
  at 8MHz to enable the increased speed.  Also, it can be optional expanded
  to 4 or 8 MB RAM.  This product is the successor to the Rossmoeller
  TurboAccess 4MHz accelerator card.  It contains an REU on-board.  It has the
  capability to provide 10x speed disk access via a parallel cable and has a
  CP/M option.  The cartridge is rumored to be mostly GEOS compatible,
  only works on PAL CBM 64 computers, and does not run games or other programs
  that do intensive timing or video.

  Commodore 128/128D Accelerators:

  The ZIP card for your C128.

  This accelerator was not produced.  Its development has been stopped due
  to miscellaneous problems.  There are no accelerators for the 128 or 128D.
  However, there is no reason why the C64 accelerators mentioned above will
  not work with the 128 in 64 mode.


   9.5.  How do I increase my computer screen's resolution?

  Commodore 64

  Since the Commodore 64's VIC-II cannot be expanded, the only way to increase
  the resolution of the Commodore 64 is to turn off the on-board video and
  replace its output with one from another IC.  The simplist approach
  involves attaching an 80 column video chip (6545, 6845, etc.) to the C64
  via the expansion port.  This will provide 80 columns of monochrome text.
  However, this is only useful for text applications, as most of these video
  devices are not capable of doing high resolution graphics.  Also, none of
  the following are currently produced, but many are sold as used equipment
  by users.

  Batteries Included BI-80

  This unit combined an 80 column monochrome text video display (using the
  6545 IC) and BASIC 4.0.  Either options could be turned on or off via
  software control.

  DATA 20 80 column unit

  This unit preceded the BI80 unit, and was produced from 1982-1984.

  Protecto Enterprizes Protecto-80

  This was basically a repackaged DATA-20 unit.  Some circuitry was changed
  to permit price reduction, but the same functionality is there.

  Commodore 128

  The Commodore 128 comes equipped with an second video display controller
  in addition to the 40 column VIC chip.  This chip can be used while in
  64 mode through clever programming, and the controller's standard 640*200
  pixel size can be expanded to 640*400.  However, there is no way to
  completely overcome the color limitation of 16 colors


   9.6.  How do I increase my computer's serial transfer speed?

  SwiftLink

  Normally, the C64/128 can easily support up to 2400 bps without special
  hardware.  (DesTerm will take the C128 up to 9600 bps, however; Dialogue128
  will do 4800 bps.)  If you wish to use a faster modem, you can do so via
  the SwiftLink cartridge put out by CMD which allows speeds up to 38.4 Kbps.
  This device plugs into your cartridge port and supplies you with a standard
  9-pin serial port.  You then connect the desired modem.
  Telecommunications software must be specifically written to support a
  SwiftLink; fortunately, this is not rare.  For instance, Dialogue128,
  Novaterm64, and Kermit(v2.2s) support the SwiftLink.


   9.7.  How do I increase my computer's sound quality?

  SID Symphony

  The C64 and C128 come equipped with 1 Sound Interface Device (SID) IC.
  This provides 3 channels of output.  For more channels, one can purchase the
  SID Symphony cartridge from CMD to provide 3 extra channels.  Most newer
  sound playing and editing software is able to use the extra channels.

  There are also a number of units one can purchase or build that will
  provide MIDI capabilities for Commodore 64 and 128 users.


   9.8.  How do I hook a Hayes(tm) compatible modem to my Commodore computer?

  There are a number of homemade interfaces available.  The TRANSACTOR
  published an interface in the Nov 87 issue (V8iss3) and Commodore Hacking
  Online Magazine published plans for one in issue 4 (See MailServer section
  for retrieval instructions.  These are both supposed to emulate the
  VIC1011A that C= put out many years ago, and you might find one at a
  computer "flea market".  Another version is designed by Stephen Coan.
  Send email to [e-mail] for a copy of the schematic in ASCII
  format.  The differences between the two is the Transactor one has
  switchable options for some of the leads and the Coan one is hard wired.

   9.9.  What other ways can I expand my Commodore computer?

  There are many hardware items that you can use.  Below is a list of a few of
  them.  Note that some of these items may no longer be in production, and
  thus are only available as used equipment.

  80-Line Simplified Digital I/O Board

  This unit has 40 TTL input lines and 40 separate buffered digital output
  lines plus an expansion socket that could support a standard ROM or clock/
  calendar cartridge.  It works on the C64 and all modes of the C128
  (including CP/M mode).  Its model number is the SS100 Plus.

  "Original Ultimate Interface"

  This is a universally applicable dual 6522 Versatile Interface Adapter board
  with four 8-bit fully bidirectional I/O ports, eight handshake lines, and four
  16-bit timer/counters.  It has IRQ interrupt capability and is expandable
  to four boards.  It works on the C64 and all modes of the C128 (including
  CP/M mode).  Its model number is the 641F22.

  A/D Conversion Module

  This unit is 16 channel, 8-bit, 100 microsecond conversion time.
  Piggy-backs on the 641F22 and thus requires it to operate.  Works on the
  C64 and all modes of the C128 (including CP/M mode).  Its model number is
  641F/ADC0816.

  The Spartan Apple ][+ emulator for the C64, by Mimic Systems, Inc.

  In addition to allowing the use of Apple ][+ hardware/software, this
  device boasted four software selectable C64 cartridge slots, a non-
  dedicated 8-bit parallel port, and standard audio cassette deck
  capabilities for the C64.

  ROM upgrades are available for the C-128 and the 1571.

+ C64 Games Port Expander  (Model #8401) 40/80 column converter.

+ Switchable, it has 4 independent cartridge sockets plus a 5th switch
+ position accessing an 80 col. character set ROM - (limited usability
+ because it *apparently* accesses a C64 Ram location which interferes
+ with a lot of stuff, I forget where or how) - and a 6th switch position
+ independent of the cartridge port for general use stuff.

+ It was built into a neat steel housing designed to sit flat on the desktop
+ and slide into the cartridge port at exactly the right height.


--
Jim Brain, Embedded Systems Designer, Brain Innovations.
[e-mail]
Dabbling in VR, Old Commodore Computers, and Good Times!
"The above views DO reflect my employer, since I am my employer" - Jim Brain


Archive-name: cbm-main-faq.2.2.p4
Comp-answers-archive-name: commodore/main-faq/part4
News-answers-archive-name: commodore/main-faq/part4
Comp-sys-cbm-archive-name: main-faq/part4
Version: 2.2
Last-modified: 1995/3/6


  10. Emulators

  10.1.  What is an emulator?

  An emulator is a piece of software that runs on a given platform and
  emulates, or mimics, the operation of another machine.  When the
  emulator loads up a program, the programs runs as though it were running
  on the emulated platform.

  For more information on emulators and their use, please see the emulator
  faq, located in the same directory as this one, under the name of
  cbm.emulation.faq.  The Commodore emulator FAQ is maintained by Russell J.
  Alphey and can also be obtained from him at [e-mail].

+ For those with WWW browsers, the CBM Emulation FAQ is at:

+ http://http.ecn.bgu.edu/users/xavf/cbm.ume.faq.toc.html


  10.2.  What platforms do 64 emulators exist on?

  Well, C64S exists for the IBM, and X64 is available for anyone running
  X over UNIX.  There is also some development on a C64 emulator for the
  Macintosh.  If you own an Amiga, you can purchase A64 to allow the Amiga
  to run C64 applications.


  10.3.  What platforms do 128 emulators exist on?

+ There are none available at this time.

  10.4.  Are any other Commodore computers emulated?

  There is a commodore product called the PET emulator that remaps a
  Commodore 64 to emulate a PET 40 column unit (i.e. PET 4032).  You can
  run this program on a C64 to emulate a PET, or you can run this program
| on a 64 emulator to emulate a PET on an IBM, for example.  You can also
+ emulate a VIC-20 on some machines.


  11. Demonstrations

  11.1.  Just what is a demonstration, or demo?

  A demonstration, or "demo" as they are known, is a piece of software that
  is designed to provoke a visually and aurally pleasing effect from the
  computer.  This usually involves large amounts of multi-colored graphics,
  complex synthesized or digitized sounds, and orchestrated movement of
  shapes or color schemes on the screen.  Demos originated as introductions
  to "cracked" games, games in which the copy protection had been rendered
  useless.  As time wore on, the standard abilities of the computer were all
  used in demos, and rival "cracker" teams raced to bring out the best demo.
  In the search for the "best demo", demo authors, or "coders", tried to
  maximize the use of the computer in a demo program.  Also, they exploited
  any undocumanted feature the computer could provide.  Since most of the
  circuits in the Commodore computers were multi-purpose, experienced coders
  could use some of their features in non-standard ways. Some examples:

  Removing the top and bottom border.
  Removing the side borders.
  Placing text (text mapped sprites) in the open borders.
  More than 8 sprites on screen at once.
  pseudo interlacing to create illusion of up to 640*400 resolution.

  Since the commercial game market has shrunk significantly over the past
  few years, and since demos are sometimes too involved to be classified
  as a game into, many demos are packaged so they can "stand-on-their-own".
  Users can download a demo, load it up, and run it like any other program.

  As demos got more involved, some coders produced cutting-edge technology
  demos intended to "one-up" their rival coders, while others made artistic,
  but less technically challenging demos for arts sake.  Either way, it is
  important to note that demos are not usually interactive.  They are meant to
  be viewed and listened to.  Demos are mostly passive entertainment, and
  appreciation for the effects generated in a demo increases as one
  realizes the normal limitations of the Commodore line of computers.
  So, sit back, load up a demo, run it, and enjoy.


  11.2.  What does NTSC and PAL mean?

  These two acronyms refer to the type of TV broadcasting signals used
  to create the video picture on your TV or monitor. American, Japanese, and
  Canadians use NTSC, while a good part of Europe uses PAL.  This usually
  makes no difference to programs, as the C64 and C128 in C64 mode always
  present 200 lines of pixels to the video display.  However, since the PAL
  standard allows more lines to be displayed on the screen and has a slower
  screen refresh time, the PAL computer has more time before screen
| refreshes to perform other operations, and also can put more information
  on the screen in some cases, since there are more lines in a PAL dislpay.
  Since demos use highly optimized timing and complex routines to perform
  the effects, some demos can only be written for PAL machines.  Sometimes,
  a demo is written for a PAL machine, but it can be made to run on an
  NTSC machine.  Demos that can run on both machines without any code
  modification are called regular demos, those that can only run on PAL
  machines are PAL demos, PAL demos that have been modified to run on NTSC
  machines are called NTSC-fixed demos, and NTSC demos that have been
  modified to run on PAL machines (rare) are called PAL-fixed demos.


  11.3.  Where do I get demos?

  There is a whole site full of  demos.  They are located in the
  /pub/cbm/c64/demos directory of nic.funet.fi.  See section 5.4 for
  directions on how to transfer files from this site.


  11.4.  What is a demo competition?

  This is a "convetion" where people from the demo "scene" get together.
  They are usually held in Europe, although other countries do have them.
  Coders get together and exhibit previously unreleased  demos in a competition
  where the best ones are ranked according to a subjective scoring system.
  At the end of the competition, the demos are released to the public.  To
  make things somewhat fair, demos are judged according to computer type, so
  Amiga demos do not get judged alongside 64 demos.  These competitions are
  usually held in conjunction with music or art competitions.

  Most demo competitions are held within Europe due to copyright laws and
  stuff.

  Previous pardies (demos parties, or competitions) held were:-

  Event                     Location        Date
  -----                     --------        ----
  Radwar Pardy              Germany         January 1994
  Pardy III                 Denmark         Decemeber 1993
  Chormance & Faces Pardy   Hungary         December 1993
  Elysium Pardy             Poland          Decemeber 1993
  Entropy Pardy             Holland         June 1993
  Assembley '93 Pardy       Finland         May 1993
  The Computer Crossroads   Sweden          April 1993
  Radwar Pardy              Germany         January 1993

  Duration 1993-1994 (March 1994)

  Most pardies are held when all the schools are on hoildays.

  The point of a copy pardy is to go there with your computer, meet other
  computer friends from other groups and swap different warez, meet other
  members of your group and using the combined skills from the members
  (graphics/coding/musix/spreading), write a demo before the closing time for
  the pardy so it can get voted on. The winner comes away with about 300
  Kronar or similar.

  11.5.  What does FLI, DYCP, etc. mean?

  Here is a small incomplete list of acronyms used to describe the different
  effects used in demos:

  Compiled by:
                Chief/Padua
                MAD/Padua
                Virus/The Acient Temple (UK)

  Jargon          Description
  ------          -----------

  Different Y/X Routines:

  DYCP          Different Y Char Position.  Can run 4 sinus tables though
                it. Each letter can have a sperate sinus tables per character.
  DYPP          Different Y Pixel Position.
  DYSP          Different Y Sprite Position.
  DYXCP         Different Y/X Char Position.  Like DYCP with coordinate
                X/Y movement. Works with Bobs. (Well is a bob routine really).
  DYPPTT        Different Y Pixel Position Tech Tech. Same as a DYXPP.
                TT means tech tech.
  FPP/FPD       Flexible Pixel Posistion/Fexible Pixel Distance
  FLD           Flexible Line Distance.
  AFLIFPP       Advanced Flexible Line Interpretation Fexible Pixel Position.

  Graphics:

  Graphics      In the upper/lower border (Bitmap/4 Colour)
  FLI           Fexible Pixel Posistion. Full screen.
  AFLI          Advanced Flexible Line Interpretation. Hi-RES same as amiga
                graphics. Gives all 16 colours in an 4x8 character block unlike
                usual 3 found in bitmap.
  Morphing      Picture Coverting from One image to another.
  Ray Tracing   Maths graphics.

  Scrollers:-

  Bob Scroll    Using character to display a text based scroller with light
                source.

  Sprite:

  Zoomers       Sprite based stretching.

                Serious side border routines.
                Sprite stretching above the standard Double Y expansion
                Sprite Multi-Plexing

  Vector:

  Standard      Lots of vector routines, too many to mention.
  Shade
  TV Box
  Shadow
  Vector
  Under
  Rubber
  Morphing
  Glenz
  Light Source
  Pixelized
  Solid Filled
  Plamsa
  Rubber
  Fractal
  Shade Bobs
  Shade Line

  Plotting:

  Star Balls    3D Star Field.
  Dot Potters   Just dot plotters.
  Plot Scroll   Dot Plot scrollers.

  Maths:
  Plasma        Very hard to explain
  Fractals      You know these.

  D011/D018
  D011 Split    Charset on one side of the screen - Vectical splits in
                which is Vecticaliy impossible - an on the other side of the
                split you get a FLI or Bitmap Image).
  Flexer        Bit like a Sprite stretcher.

                Bitmap Hardware Swing/Scroll Swing.
                Veritcal Rasters


  12. Troubleshooting

  12.1.  What do I do for my ill disk drive?

  If your drive won't even accept input from the computer, and the drive
  light is making some blinking pattern, then the drive may be telling you
  what is wrong.

  No Blink       Kernal (E000-FFFF) ROM or 6522 VIA Failure
  One Blink      6116 RAM Failure
  Two Blinks     Possible Zero Page RAM Failure
  Three Blinks   DOS (C000-CFFF) ROM Failure
  Four Blinks    DOS (C000-CFFF) ROM Failure
  Five Blinks    6116 RAM Failure
  Six Blinks     6116 RAM Failure
  Seven Blinks   6116 RAM Failure
  Eight Blinks   6116 RAM Failure

  1541

  The most common problem facing the 1541 disk drive is alignment.  If your
  1541 has trouble reading commercial disks, or reading disks written some
  time ago, but has less trouble reading recently written disks, chances are
  that your 1541 is out of alignment.  C= service centers will typically align
  a 1541 for anywhere from $20 to $45.  There are also 1541 alignment
  programs, (e.g. Free Spirit's "1541/71 Alignment System") which allow you
  to align a 1541 yourself.  There are those who claim that this does not
  produce good results, but there are others who claim to have had
  satisfactory results with these programs.  There were a couple of articles
  in COMPUTE Gazette and I think RUN on how to do this.  The real problem is
  mechanical in nature and can be over come.  Other products are PHYSICAL
  EXAM 1541 and 1571 versions.

  1571

  The C=1571 drive is normally a double sided drive.  However, it can also
  emulate a 1541 and read single sided disks.  Some of the earlier 1571's had
  older system chips (ROMs) which caused a couple of problems.  One, these
  older drives were typically very slow when writing to the back side of a
  disk.  Two, it would take these drives ~30 seconds to go into single sided
  mode.  To check your ROM version, read the error channel of the disk drive
  right after startup.  On the 128, just PRINT DS$.  On the 64, use:

  10 open15,8,15:input#15,a,a$,b,c:close15:printa,a$,b,c

  Run the program; if the message says v3.0 or v3.1, you have the newer ROM.
  If it has a version <3.0, you probably have the older ROM.

  One problem that might occur is not having the head close enough to the disk
  as required because of the light tension of the spring that pulls the head
  down.  Somewhere I remember that there was supposed to be a replacement
  part.  However, one of the alignment programs suggesting using pennies to
  weight it down and lo and behold it started working.

  1581

  The C=1581 drive is a 3.5" drive that uses DSDD 800K disks.  It is
  compatible with both the C64 and C128, although some programs will not work
  correctly with the 1581.

  A small number of 1581's were shipped with an early version of a controller
  chip which has problems with some software.


  12.2.  What do I do for my ill computer?

  Commodore 64

  A common problem with the C-64 is it's power supply.  The C64 power
  supplies are not especially powerful, and have this disturbing tendency to
  fail.  If your computer stops working, first check the power supply.
  Replacement power supplies can be obtained from a number of mail order
  places (e.g. Tenex, Parsec, Inc.).  Additionally, several places advertise
  "heavy-duty" power supplies that come with warranties, and give the C64
  enough power to run a REU.

  If your power supply goes, it can sometimes take other parts of the
  computer with it.  If your power supply has died, but the C64 continues
  to fail with a known working power supply, it is likely that a few of your
  chips got fried.

  Also, another common problem with the C64 is the fuse inside the computer.
  If the system power on light comes on, but you get a blank screen, suspect
  the fuse.  It is usually blown by misinsertion of devices into the computer.


  Commodore 128 and 128D

  Like the 1571, the C-128 has an older ROM and a newer ROM.  The differences
  between the two are less serious than is the case with a 1571.  The easiest
  way to tell the difference is to click down the CAPS LOCK key and hit Q
  while in BASIC direct mode.  If you see a lower case q, then you have an
  older ROM.  If you see an upper case Q, then you have a newer ROM.  New ROMs
  can be ordered from (e.g. the Grapevine Group) for about $25.  The ROM chips
  in the 128 are all socketed, so replacing the chips is relatively easy.


  12.3.  What do I do for my ill keyboard?

    Clean it:

    Materials you will need:

    Denatured (rubbing) alcohol, a clean pencil eraser, cotton swabs, a small
|   Phillips head screwdriver, a jewellers size Phillips screwdriver, a
|   solder iron of some type, and a Commodore 64 computer keyboard.

    Procedure:

    1. FIRST AND FOREMOST. Make certain that you have discharged any static
       electricity in your body by grounding yourself to something like a cold
       water pipe. Otherwise, you could blow chips in your computer if you
       were to touch the wrong things.

    2. Turn off your computer and unplug any and all cords and connectors,
       fast-loaders, modems, etc. (just have yourself a naked (if you will
       excuse the expression) computer).

    3. Thoroughly clean all external connectors and ports with the swabs and
       alcohol. Also, clean all plugs that go into those ports. If the problem
       you had persists, proceed with the following:

    4. On a clean surface, turn your key-board upside-down. Remove the screws
       in the bottom.

    5. CAREFULLY, separate the two halves about an inch. Unplug the connector
       to the "power" LED on the top of the C-64.

    6. Place the two halves flat so that the keyboard is facing  you. The two
       halves will be connected by a wire harness. This harness may be held
       down by tape that must be removed in order to place the unit flat.

    7. Remove the 15 or so brass screws that hold the  circuit  board  under
       the keyboard.

    7a.Unsolder the wires going to the shift-lock key.

    8. Turn the circuit board over. You will see the bottom of the keyboard
       with a rubber "U" under each key, which makes contact with the board.
       You will also see on the circuit board, a pair of gold contacts for
       each key on the C-64.

    9. CAREFULLY wash ALL the rubber "U"'s and the gold contacts with the
       swabs and rubbing alcohol. Allow the alcohol to DRY.

    10.Gently, clean each gold contact with the eraser. BRUSH AWAY THE ERASER
       CRUMBS (I use  a  small  hand-held, battery-powered vacuum cleaner).

    11.Re-clean the gold contacts with the swabs and alcohol to ensure that
       you have removed ALL traces of the eraser.

    12.Reassemble the C-64 in the reverse order of disassembly.


+ 12.4.  What does this IC number mean?

+ Here are a few Commodore IC numbers and their functions.  Note that this
+ is an incomplete list.  A more comprehansive list is called csg.chips.info
+ and is at ftp.funet.fi.

+ A Short Listing of Integrated Circuits:

+ For the VIC-20:

+ Nmemonic        PN#   Alt. PN#
+ VIC-I (NTSC)    6560
+ VIC-I (PAL)     6561
+ CPU             6502

+ For the C-64 and C-64C:

+ Nmemonic        PN#   Alt. PN#
+ VIC-II (NTSC)   6567  8562?
+ VIC-II (PALB)   6569  8565
+ VIC-II (PALN)   6572
+ VIC-II (PALM)   6573
+ SID             6581  6582  8580

+ For the C-128(D):

+ Nmemonic        PN#   Alt. PN#
+ VIC-IIe (NTSC)  8564
+ VIC-IIe (PALB)  8566
+ VIC-IIe (PALN)  8569
+ DVDC            8563  8568
+ SID             6581  8580

+ Differences between 64 boards:

+ The older boards had discrete LSI logic and a PLA chip.  The newer
+ boards put all the PAl and LSI logic into one ASIC chip.  On the
+ older boards, the KERNAL and BASIC ROMs were separate, while they are
+ combined in the newer design.


  13. Miscellaneous

+ 13.1.  How can you alter which side a 1571 reads from?

  On a 128, you can force the 1571 to go into single sided mode with the drive
  command "u0>m0".  (Issue such a command with open15,8,15,"u0>m0":close15.)
  On the 64, a 1571 defaults to single sided mode, but you can convert it to
  double sided mode (and read full double sided disk in 64 mode) with the
  drive command "u0>m1".  While in single sided mode, you can actually format
  both sides of the disk as separate file systems.  The command "u0>h0"
  selects the regular side of the disk, and "u0>h1" selects the flip side of
  the disk.  Note that the flip side, when formatted this way, cannot be read
  by a 1541; neither side will be readable by a 1571 when the disk is
  inserted upside-down.

+ 13.2.  Can I get my 1581 drive to change its device number on startup?

  When the 1581 is initialized, as well as checking the boot sector of the
  disk, it also looks for a file "copyright cbm 86".  This file, if found,
  can specify a device number for the 1581 disk.  Whenever the 1581 is booted
  or initialized with this disk inserted, its device number will be changed
  to the specified number.  The utility 1581-auto-dev by David W. Tamkin
  (can be found on ccnga.uwaterloo.ca in the utilities directory) will create
  this file.  It can also do other stuff, so check it out.


+ 13.3.  How can I change my drive device number through software?

  To change the device number on Commodore drives, follow these steps:
  In the following examples, 'olddn' is the drive's current device number,
  and 'newdn' is the new number you wish to change it to.

  1)    Turn off all drives except one you wish to change device number of.
  2)    Type the following in, depending on drive type:

    1540/41/Most Compatibles:
        open 15,olddn,15
        print#15,"m-w"chr$(119)chr$(0)chr$(2)chr$(32+newdn)chr$(64+newdn)
        close 15

    MSD SD-1 (Old ROM):
        open 15,olddn,15
        print#15,"m-w"chr$(117)chr$(0)chr$(2)chr$(32+newdn)chr$(64+newdn)
        close 15

    1570/17/81
        open 15,olddn,15
        print#15,"u0>"+chr$(newdn)
        close 15

  3)    Turn back on other drives.

  The change is only temporary.  It will revert back if the drive is turned
  off.


+ 13.4.  How do I transform a BASIC program to a text file?

+ As you may know, Commodore BASIC stores programs in "tokenized" format,
+ so they are unreadable from a standard text editor.  To fix that, load up
+ you BASIC program, and then type the following in direct mode:

+ open1,8,2,"listing,s,w":cmd1:list

+ The text listing will be placed on drive 8 in a file called listing.  After
+ the listing is finished, your cursor should return.  Type the following
+ in:

+ print#1:close1

+ You now have an un-"tokenized" copy of your program, which you can edit with
+ any text editor.


+ 13.5.  How do I transform a text file into a BASIC program?

+ Since Commodore BASIC stores its programs in "tokenized" format, one
+ cannot simply load text files containing BASIC statements and run the file
+ directly.  However, there is a solution.  In direct mode on a CBM 64,
+ type in the following:

+ open1,8,2,"filename":poke781,2:poke812,73:sys 65478

+ This will read in each line of the text file and try to execute it (or
+ store it if the line is preceded by a number).  When the last line of
+ the program is entered, hit RUN/STOP-RESTORE, and type in the following:

+ close1:poke812,47:sys 65484

+ The file will now be loaded into memory.  Immediately save the file
+ to disk as a BASIC program.


+ 13.6.  How do I format a Commodore disk?

+ To format a disk in drive 0 (older PET drives had drive 0 and 1) on disk
+ device #8, you issue the following command from BASIC:

+ open1,8,15,"n0:16char_name,12":close1

+ The name can be 16 characters in length, and the drive id (12 in this
+ example) can be any two alphanumeric characters.


+ 13.7.  How fast does a Commodore 64 run?

+ Since Commodore 64 computers divide down the video clock crystal frequency
+ to drive the microprocessor, the speed of the C64 depends on what type of
+ video display you C64 is set up for. If you are using a
+ PAL C64 (Common in Europe), the computer is running at 985248.449Hz.  If you
+ are using a NTSC C64 (Common in the USA), the computer is running slightly
+ faster, at 1022727.143Hz.  Changing a C64 from PAL to NTSC or vice-versa
+ requires changing the VIC-II integrated circuit and the video clock
+ crystal, and changing a jumper on the C64 motherboard.  If you do not
+ have Revision 3 Kernal ROMs, the change may also require replacing
+ the Kernal ROM.


  14. Credits

  I want to extend my thanks to the following people for their help in
  providing correct, up-to-date information in this FAQ:

  Fred Mueller, who maintained this FAQ before I.
  Compuserve Commodore Forum Sysop Marte Brengle, for the write up on CIS.
  Gunther Birznieks, for the updated info on the Zip-Card.
  Jouko Valta, for the info on accessing the extra VDC RAM.
  Robert Cook, for the correct info on the fastloader internals.
  Andreas Boose, for the info on the Turbo Process.
  Craig Bruce, for proofreading, spellchecking, LRR info, and .bco info.
  Richard Hable, for info on 1541-dos.
  Peter Weighill, for info on the emulation FAQ.
  Georg Schwarz, for proofreading the FAQ.
  Gaelyne Moranec, for info on CEE-64 Alive!
  Kevin Jensen, for the magazine and repair info, and for proofreading.
  George Page, for info on Colorado User's Group.
  Fredrik Ekman, for info on the commodor mail list.
  Chris Bongarts, for more info on the commodor mail list.
  Russell Alphey, for info on cbm-hackers mail list.
  Craig Bruce, for info on the new home of ccosun.
  Michael Kelley, for updated info on BBCG User Group.
  Richard Hable, for info on RAMDOS.
  Philip Zembrod, for info on drive blink patterns.
  Tom Netsel, for info on Compute's Gazette.
  Shahriar Ghadishah, for more info on the disk drive blink patterns.
  George Page, for still more info on the drive blink patterns.
  Sven Goldt, for info on the Flash8 accelerator.
  Edward Piecewicz, for info on the Boston Computer Society.
  Jean Nance for more info on her User Group.
  Mark Rejhon, for info on 22DSK137, and Novaterm's Z-modem.
  Jim Butterfield, for info on new CIS rates, and proofing.
  Patrick Fleming, for info on Novaterm Z-modem.
  Charles Grifor, for the truth about Q-Link.
  ETIPTON, for info on geoNews.
  Chris McBride, for info on LHARC, UNZIP64, and troubleshooting tips.
  David Case, for info on Commodore World.
  Kevin Jensen, for info on user groups and magazines.
  Lonnie McClure, for dispelling the CMD-C65 rumors.
  Harold Hoover, for info on the Anchorage User Group.
  Tony Clark, for more info on the demo scene.
  David Tamkin, for info on changing drive numbers.
  Marko Makela, for info on the 128 expansion plans and proofreading.
  Jens-Michael Gross, for info on expanded geoRAMs.
  Joshua Brandt, for info on Mega-Disk.
  Anthony Hawkins, for proofreading and info on the 1750 clone.
  Jim Deardon, for info on new GEnie prices and keyboard cleaning.
  Andrew K, for info from his C64 Contacts Newsletter.
  George Page, for more repair facilities and info on file types.
  Jon Mines, for info on Threshold Productions.
  Doug Cotton, for CMD and Commodore World corrections.
  Gilles Bourdin, for info on the Commodore economic status.
  Soeren D. Nielsen, for info on the US and overseas offices of Psygnosis.
  Jane Davis, for info on the C-NET BBS program.
  Anthony Hawkins, for info on the DATA 20/Protecto 80 column boards.
  Eric W. Brown, for info on the 1541 RAMBoard and the  miscellaneous add-ons.
  Ivan Kohler, for corrections to c64-hackers mailing list.
  Eric W. Brown, for info on c=hacking mailing list.
  Russell Alphey, for new info on the c65 mailing list.
  Jon Mines, for updated info on Novaterm.
  Peter Weighill, for info on WWW site for FAQ, and for HAM info on ICPUG.
  Anthony Perotti, for info on the demise of Rio Computers.
  Michael Kelley, for info on Basic Bits address.
  Nhat-Viet Phi, for info on geoRAM on RAMLink.
  David Schmoll, for info on his NZP128 program.
  Jason Compton, for info on Psygnosis contacts.
  George Taylor, for explaining the german newsgroups.
  Matthias Matting, for new info on 64'er magazine.
  Jack Vanderwhite, for info on the Plus/4 User's Group.
  Jean Nance, for info on the demise of Q-Link.
  Dale Lutes, for info on a place to get Kermit.
  Marko Makela, for more info on the Flash 8 card.
  David Schmoll, for corrections on the UNZIP128 prg.
+ Anthony Hawkins, for info on the C64 Games Port Expander.
+ Anthonay Perotti, for info on RIO Computer's new address.
+ Robert Todd, for info on Briwall,LYCO, SD of A, and RamCo.
+ George Page, for info on C65 FAQ Maintainer.
+ Robert Goodlett, for info on D-Mail.
+ Paul Gardner-Stephen, for updates on 64NET.
+ Tarragon Moon Allen, for info on IC Numbers.
+ Jouko Valta, for info on 64 board diffs.
+ Mike Neus, for info on the mail-to-news gateway addresses.
+ Lee Hyatt, for info on ZipCode extensions and Fido.
+ Charles Fitzhugh, for info on possible Pkoenix Network contact.
+ Jonathon Mines, for info on email address for Threshold Productions.
+ LTKERNALACT, for info on RM Software.
+ Mike Gordillo, for info on CMD doing repairs.
+ Hefner, for info on accessing WWW pages through mail.
+ Stephen Hughes, for info on the VIC-20 emulator for the Amiga.
+ Jouko Valta, for info on the WWW page on the CBM emulator's FAQ.
+ Dave Wu, for info on the c64coders mailing list.
+ Craig Bruce, for info on his FTP server.
+ Jack Vanderwhite, for info on the demise of geoNews.
+ Jeff Jones, for my typo of LOADSTAR.
+ Russell Alphey, for more info on 64NET.
+ Thomas Karlsen, for info on 8-bit.
+ Jack Vanderwhite, for info on US Distributor of Commodore Network.
+ Jack Vanderwhite, for info on new COMMODORE CEE magazine.
+ Joshua Mayo, for info on demise of FRIENDZ and CONTAX.
+ Random-Mag, for info on their magazine, and corrections.
+ Charles Fitzhugh, for info on Qlink SW retrieval affort.
+ Anthony Hawkins, for info on accessing WWW pages from telnet.
+ Anthony Hawkins, for added info on the state of CBM.
+ Marko Makela, for info on the BASIC->SEQ converter.
+ Tracy Ratcliff, for info on the SEQ->BASIC converter.
+ Bruce Mills, for info on SHIFT-LOCK unsoldering on keyboard cleaning.
+ Gary Noakes, for info on Micro A & A.
+ Jonathine Mines, for updated address for Threshold Producstions.
+ Tim Phelps, for info on GeoFax.
+ Joi Ball, for updated info on MPCUG.
+ Robert Bales, for info on Wichita User Group, and The Tax Survival Kit.
+ Jeff Jones, for updates on LOADSTAR and some SW companies.
+ Mike Miller, for info on comp.binaries.cbm.
+ Robert Bales, for info on Desterm and Matt's address.
+ Adam Lorentzon, for info on his C64 Games WWW pages.
+ Thomas Karlsen, for more info on the FLASH 8 card.
+ Rosemarie Fox, for info on RMS and RM Software.
+ Michael Bendure, for DS2 Network SW outlets and other info.
+ Andre Fachat, for info on his WWW page.
+ Frank Michlick, for info on the Demo WWW page.
+ Nhat-Viet Phi, for info on RUG-Bees.
+ Paul Rosenzweig, for info on Steve Cuthberts old addy.
+ Scott Egglestone, for info on The Underground.
+ Gaelyne Moranec, for general cleanup and PCWRITE FIDO echo info.
+ Anthony Hawkins, for info on Amiga Format WWW page and Dick Estel fonts.
+ Nick Rossi, for info on new Novaterm ftp site.
+ James Hanson, for info on newsgroup posting via mail to utexas.edu.
+ Jack Vanderwhite, for info on BBS that carries FAQ.
+ Gil Parrish, for info on demise of C64 support by Psygnosis.
+ Henry Sopko, for info on SCREENSAVER DELUXE.
+ Phil Heberer, for info on Microfix.
+ Craig Taylor, for updates on MAILSERV.
+ Marko Makela, for info on HTML C= Hacking site.
+ David Gahris, for Herach and Rademan info.
+ Paul Gardner-Stephen, for info on his home page.
+ Ray Kelm, for info on Image BBS seller.
+ Susie Martin, for phone number for Phoenix Network.
+ Marc-Jano Knopp, for info on his home page.
+ Birgitta Noren, for info on Joel Conover's WWW page.
+ Robert Batina, for info on his WWW page.
+ Kimmo Veijalainen, for info on TransNib.
+ Cameron Kaiser, for info on the Computer Workshops WWW site.


--
Jim Brain, Embedded Systems Designer, Brain Innovations.
[e-mail]
Dabbling in VR, Old Commodore Computers, and Good Times!
"The above views DO reflect my employer, since I am my employer" - Jim Brain