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SILICON TIMES REPORT ==================== INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE ============================= from STR Electronic Publishing Inc. December 10, 1993 No. 9.50 ====================================================================== Silicon Times Report International Online Magazine Post Office Box 6672 Jacksonville, Florida 32221-6155 R.F. Mariano Publisher-Editor ----------------------------------------- Voice: 904-783-3319 10 AM-4 PM EST STR Publishing Support BBS Network System * THE BOUNTY BBS * FIDO 1:112/35 ~ ITCNet 85:881/253 ~ FNET 350 ~ Nest 90:21/350 904-786-4176 USR/HST 24hrs-7 days 2400 -38.4 bps V.32-42 bis 16.8 Dual Standard FAX: 904-783-3319 12 AM-6 AM EST ----------------------------------------- Fido 1:112/35 The Bounty STR Support Central 1-904-786-4176 FNET. 620 : Leif's World ................1-904-573-0734 FNET. 690 : PASTE BBS....................1-206-284-8493 FNET. 489 : Steal Your Face BBS..........1-908-920-7981 MNET - Toad Hall BBS.....................1-617-567-8642 ______________________________________________________________________ > 12/10/93 STR 950 "The Original * Independent * Online Magazine!" """""""""""""""" - CPU INDUSTRY REPORT - DUMMIES FOR DOS - $2 SWITCH HURTS! - DRAM PRODUCTION UP - MODERN CHRISTMAS - WP has NEW PREZ - EyeQ/AV - NEWTON NEWS! - DISKWORLD REVIEW - SUPER MAZE WARS - UNDERWARE! - STR Confidential! -* MICROSOFT "MOST INNOVATIVE!" *- -* QMODEMPRO for WINDOWS! *- -* POWER PC SNEAK PEEK! *- ====================================================================== STReport International Online Magazine The Original * Independent * Online Magazine -* FEATURING WEEKLY *- "Accurate UP-TO-DATE News and Information" Current Events, Original Articles, Tips, Rumors, and Information Hardware - Software - Corporate - R & D - Imports ====================================================================== STReport's BBS - The Bounty BBS, invites all BBS systems, worldwide, to participate in the Fido/PROWL/ITC/USENET/NEST/F-Net Mail Networks. You may also call The Bounty BBS direct @ 904-786-4176. Enjoy the wonder and excitement of exchanging all types of useful information relative to computers, worldwide, through the use of excellent International Networking Systems. SysOps, worldwide, are welcome to join the STReport International Conferences. The Fido Node is 1:112/35, ITC Node is 85:881/253 Crossnet Code is #34813, and the "Lead Node" is #620. All computer platforms BBS systems are welcome and invited to participate. ====================================================================== CIS ~ AOL ~ DELPHI ~ BIX ~ FIDO ~ PROWL ~ ITC ~ NEST ~ EURONET USENET ~ CIX ~ CLEVELAND FREE-NET ~ INTERNET ~ FNET ~ GENIE ====================================================================== COMPUSERVE WILL PRESENT $15.00 WORTH OF COMPLIMENTARY ONLINE TIME to the Readers of; STREPORT INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" "The Original 16/32bit Online Magazine" NEW USERS; SIGN UP TODAY! CALL: 1-800-848-8199 .. Ask for operator 198 You will receive your complimentary time and be online in no time at all! "Enjoy CompuServe's forums; where information is at its very best! """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > From the Editor's Desk "Saying it like it is!" """""""""""""""""""""" Amazingly, I received a bunch of reader input about the Jaguar Game machine... while the Atari marketplace may be small.... it certainly is outspoken. Bless their hearts. STReport made mention of the Jaguar reportedly going to be late a number of weeks ago. As a result, we received a "pack" of letters stating we were wrong. We checked our info, and found that we were right. The Jag was late and the number shipped in its test market areas was way down from the "promised" amount. In this issue, in Sam's own words, we are verified. Sorry folks but there'll be no correction about our reporting that the Jag was going to be late. On other fronts, the Norton folks are busy with some interesting new acquisitions, look for more news on that in the coming weeks. The new Diamond Sound Card... SONIC is beginning to shake the very foundations of the other sound cards position in the marketplace. So far, Sonic "BOOM" is the only card we've found that, in normal use, needs no driver loaded. Thus frees some of the very valuable memory the other cards demand for their software drivers. Check out the Sonic Sound Card from Diamond Computer. You will not regret it at all. Enclosed with this issue is a gorgeous greeting card. From our entire staff you, our readers. After all, YOU make it all worthwhile! The lovely picture (tree.gif), from CompuServe's Graphics forum, is of an evergreen tree with a few lights on it sitting in the middle of a huge, freshly snowed upon plain. I fell in love with the picture. I hope you do. The additional work on the graphic was performed by STR's new graphics editor Mike Barnwell using Corel's Photopaint and Corel Draw 4.0. The greeting Card is a GIF file with 256 colors. Please enjoy it. Ralph.... """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" STReport's Staff DEDICATED TO SERVING YOU! """""""""""""""" Publisher -Editor """""""""""""""""" Ralph F. Mariano Lloyd E. Pulley, Editor, Current Affairs Section Editors """"""""""""""" PC SECTION AMIGA SECTION MAC SECTION ATARI SECTION ---------- ------------- ----------- ------------- R.D. Stevens R. Glover R. Noak D. P. Jacobson STReport Staff Editors: """"""""""""""""""""""" Dana P. Jacobson Michael Arthur John Deegan Mike Barnwell Brad Martin Judith Hamner John Szczepanik Dan Stidham Joseph Mirando Steve Spivey Doyle C. Helms Randy Noak Jeff Coe Contributing Correspondents: """""""""""""""""""""""""""" Tim Holt Norman Boucher Harry Steele Clemens Chin Neil Bradley Eric Jerue Ron Deal Robert Dean Ed Westhusing James Nolan Vernon W. Smith Bruno Puglia Frank Sereno IMPORTANT NOTICE """""""""""""""" Please, submit letters to the editor, articles, reviews, etc... via E-Mail to: Compuserve................... 70007,4454 America Online..................STReport Delphi......................... RMARIANO BIX............................ RMARIANO FIDONET........................ 1:112/35 FNET........................... NODE 350 ITC NET...................... 85:881/253 NEST........................ 90:21/350.0 GEnie......................... ST-REPORT """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" > CPU STATUS REPORT LATE BREAKING INDUSTRY-WIDE NEWS """"""""""""""""" IBM/POWER-PC/PC SECTION (I) =========================== Computer Products Update - CPU Report ------------------------ ---------- Weekly Happenings in the Computer World Issue #50 By: Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr. ******* General Computer News ******* ** Atari's Loses $17.6 Million in Third Quarter ** Atari Corp. reported Thursday a third- quarter loss of $17.6 million, compared to earnings of $1.9 million, or 3 cents a share, in the year- ago quarter. Revenues for the video-game company, which recently released its leading-edge Jaguar game system, were off sharply to $4.4 million, compared with $34.5 million in the 1992 quarter. Atari said the loss was substantially larger than expected, primarily due to write-offs of $7.5 million of inventory of personal computers and older video game products. It also incurred restructuring costs of $6.4 million from the wind-down of Australian operations and the decline in value of company-owned real estate in Europe. Sam Tramiel, president, said the company is in the process of comp- leting its transition from older technology consisting principally of 16-bit personal computers and 8-bit video game systems to the 64-bit Jaguar, which began shipping last month. "While we are highly encouraged by the early sales of Jaguar, we do not expect to achieve profitability until at least such time as ship- ments of Jaguar are made in substantial volume," Tramiel said. The executive also said the company was working to resolve start-up production and supply problems which led to delays in production and shipment of Jaguar. He estimated the company will ship approximately 20, 000 Jaguar systems during the fourth quarter and 500,000 during 1994. Atari originally planned to ship 50,000 Jaguars to stores in the New York and San Francisco areas before Christmas, then stage a national rollout in January. ** Microsoft Called Nation's Most Innovative Firm ** A Fortune magazine survey of nearly 1,000 senior executives in the 60 metro areas has named Microsoft Corp. as the most innovative company operating in the United States. Microsoft received 39% of the votes to lead the list of the 10 honored companies. ** Toshiba to Boost DRAM Output ** Spurred by a relatively strong demand for use in high-end personal computers, Toshiba Corp.'s expects to increase it's monthly output of 16MB DRAM chips will be boosted to 2 million by the end of 1994. Cur- rently the monthly production is just above 500,000. It is expected that the firm's output of 4MB DRAMs, currently around 8 million per month, will stay at that level. ** Hitachi-TI Chip to be Shipped ** A 64-megabit DRAM chip developed jointly by Hitachi Ltd. and Texas Instruments Inc. will start sample shipments this month. Plans are to launch mass production of the new chip either in 1995 or 1996 depending on domestic demand. ** TI Develops New Microcomputer Chip ** Texas Instruments Inc. (TI) announced this week its scientists have developed a new microcomputer chip that is capable of operating at room temperature. Reports say that the quantum-effect chip, which once would only work under extremely cold temperatures of minus 320 degrees Fahrenheit, is said to operate over three times faster and hold three times more func- tions than conventional chips. The new chip will only need a third of the transistors to provide the same computing power as the current state-of-the-art semiconductor. ** Hitachi & Matsushita Develop Advanced Memory Devices ** Hitachi claims that it has developed a significant single electronic memory unit which can store 1,000 times more data than that of current semiconductor memory chips. Matsushita Electronics has also developed a highly integrated optical circuit device, which reportedly has consider- able potential in multimedia devices. Some electronics firms, including Hitachi, have already developed a single electronic memory. However, these existing single electronic mem- ory devices should be used under temperatures at minus 273 degrees. Un- less the memory units are cooled down, the data is lost due to excessive heat. Hitachi has overcome this problem by putting the electronic device into a silicon container. As a result, this single electronic memory unit can function in room-temperature. It is reported that the data will not be lost even when the switch is turned off. Meanwhile, Matsushita Electric has developed an optical electronic integrated circuit (OEIC), which has 64 units of semiconductor lasers and a driver transistor. It is a two-tier structured IC, and the tran- sistor is placed on the semiconductor laser. With this structure, each laser unit is controlled directly. As a re- sult, the processing speed is increased almost 10-fold. The size of the IC unit is just one third of a current IC. ** CD-Rom Interactive Training to Ship in January ** Wilson Learning Corporation has announced it will begin shipping the first of several CD-ROM-based interactive training programs for Macin- tosh and PCs in late January. The company says the interpersonal, sales, and management skills dev- elopment training programs are being developed in conjunction with Sony Electronic Publishing Company. A total of 10 titles will be produced in the joint project with Sony, while Wilson will also develop further titles independently. The first programs, scheduled to ship January 24th, are "Connect for Success: Connect With Others and Influence Them;" Sell to Needs: Sell the Way People Like to Buy;" Relate with Ease: Build and Keep Interper- sonal Relationships;" and "Decide For Sure: Add Certainty to Your Decision Making." The first four titles to be released will be available through retail outlets such as Computer City and Software, Etc at the suggested retail price of $69.95. ** Prodigy, NYNEX Announce Electronic Yellow Pages ** NYNEX said it will offer its 1.7 million business listings on the Prodigy service next year and sell ads alongside those listings. The companies said it is the first true electronic yellow pages offering, including advertising, on an on-line service. ** Software Sales up 30%, Revenues Only up 16% ** North American shipments of application software are up 30% over last year, but, says the Software Publishers Association, "aggressive pricing held revenue growth to a more moderate 16%." The SPA also says that leading the growth in the third quarter were drawing/paint and desktop publishing programs. Breaking down the figures, the SPA says: -:- Windows applications still pace the industry, hitting $808 million in the third quarter, a 70% increase from the same period last year. For the year to date, Windows application sales totaled $2.26 billion, a 74% increase. -:- DOS applications sales continued to decline, recording $471 mil- lion for the quarter, and $1.46 billion for the first three quarters. DOS sales were 26% lower for the third quarter and 22% lower for the first three quarters compared with '92 sales. -:- Apple Macintosh software sales were $276 million for the third qu- arter and $713 million for the first three quarters, up 11% for the qua- rter and 7.4% for the three quarters. -:- Word processors and spreadsheets remained the largest categories, with revenues of $219 million and $182 million in the quarter, respectively. -:- Sales growth in the database category slowed from the previous two quarters, as the product introduction blitzes of the first two quarters ended. Database sales in the quarter were up 25%, to $108 million. -:- Drawing/painting and desktop publishing software were the fastest- growing categories in the third quarter. Drawing and painting sales were up 110% to $124 million, while sales of desktop publishing products were up 106% to $67 million for the quarter. ** Apple Given Reprieve by Texas Commissioners ** The county commissioners in Georgetown, Texas, this week reversed themselves and voted 3-2 to approve a modified financial incentive pack- age for Apple Computer. Last week, the board voted 3-2 against the pack- age because of Apple's policy of giving health benefits the partners of gay employees. The financial package grants Apple some reimbursements on taxes in exchange for free right-of-way on future county improvements. The tax savings will help pay for a planned $80 million customer service center that eventually is to employ 1,700 people. ** N.J. Busts Alleged Credit Scam ** Fifteen salespeople at a New Jersey car dealership have been accused of using the credit records of more than 450 people to steal hundreds of millions of dollars. The 15 salespeople were arrested arraigned this week on federal fraud and theft charges. Secret Service agent Peter A. Cavicchia is quoted as saying the salespeople are alleged to have tapped into credit reports through their computers, used the information to change the victims' addresses, and then ordered credit cards and ran up charges. They also allegedly used the credit information to obtain bank loans and cash advances. The dealership, Autoland in Springfield, N.J., alerted authorities when they discovered unauthorized use of computer terminals. ** BSA Catches Firm Using Pirated Software ** An audit by the Business Software Alliance found that Comptronix Corp. Inc. was using unlicensed versions of software produced by Aldus Corp., Autodesk Inc., Microsoft Corp., and WordPerfect Corp. The company has agreed to pay $232,500 in penalties. ******* General PC News ******* ** Novell Introduces Multimedia ** NetWare Video 1.0, software to deliver multimedia audio and video signals over PC networks, has been introduced by Novell Inc. Company officials are quoted as saying the software will enable its NetWare customers to view and interact with multimedia information in Microsoft Windows and will give multiple users access to audio and video data simultaneously from a central server linked to networked computers. The product, which costs $1,100 for a five-user format and $2,975 for a 25-user format, is the first to result from Novell's July acquisition of Fluent Inc. Novell says it expects to have technology next year that will allow live video information to be sent over the network, with video confer- encing to follow. ** Lotus Seeks Customer Feedback ** Lotus Development Corp. announced today that it has established a toll-free telephone line and a forum on CompuServe to receive sugges- tions from customers regarding ways to enhance its products. The software publisher states that its toll-free line and the Compu- Serve forum will complement other means the company has for gathering customer ideas for review by product teams. Customers in the U.S. and Canada can call a toll-free number (1-800- 5MY-IDEA) to leave a phone mail message. The suggestions will be entered daily into a Notes database and will be automatically routed to members of the appropriate Lotus product team for review and consideration. ** Claris Claims 'Filemaker Pro' Easier to use than 'Access' ** Claris is pleased to report its Filemaker Pro for Windows 2.1 out- scored Microsoft's Access 1.1 for Windows in usability tests conducted by Usability Sciences Corporation of Irving, Texas. While Claris commis- sioned the tests, it says this is the second test in which its product outdid Access, the other being a set of tests for ease-of-use conducted by Software Digest/NSTL. The main claim Claris is making for Filemaker Pro for Windows is ease of use. In the Usability Sciences study novice database users were able to complete an identical set of tasks 20% faster with the Claris product than with Microsoft Access. The tasks were: creating a database, enter- ing records into the database, querying the database, creating a form, adding two new records into the form, adding a scroll bar to the record field, and stamping a system date onto the form. While it took both groups of participants well over an hour to comp- lete the tasks, participants using Access took nearly 17 minutes longer. Study participants were intermediate PC users with little or no database application experience. Claris the software subsidiary of Apple Computer, has cut the price of Filemaker Pro 2.1 for Windows to $129, and is offering upgrades for $20, and competitive upgrades from other database software products for $99. A Macintosh version of the product is available for $399. Microsoft Access 1.1 is retail priced at $495, however Microsoft has frequently offered the product for $99 since its introduction over a year ago. ** Book Aids DOS Users With Wit, Cartoons ** The latest book intended to make using MS-DOS easier to use and un- derstand is a book titled DOS for Dummies written by Dan Gookin, part of the MS-DOS 6.2 Upgrade for Dummies package that also includes the MS-DOS 6.2 software. Gookin's book DOS for Dummies is supposed to be easy to read and a gold mine for the millions of PC users who are secretly - and in many cases openly - intimidated by PC software. "The book covers 100 percent of the tasks users will be performing with their computers" according to Gookin. He describes the style of the book as engaging, informative and humorous. In addition to instructions on how to turn on the computer -- some people actually have a problem finding the power switch -- Gookin includes topics such as "Ten Common Beginner Mistakes," "Ten Things You Should Never Do," and "After You Panic, Do This." So if your favorite computer user is willing to admit he or she is a dummy, this book might be just the thing for the Christmas stocking. MS- DOS 6.2 Upgrade for Dummies has a suggested retail price of $77.95. ******* General Mac News ******* ** Newton News ** Apple Computer says it is launching the Newton Industry Association at the first International Newton Development Conference being held this week in Apple's home town of Cupertino, California. Apple says the Newton Industry Association is aimed at promoting gro- wth and inter-operability of the Newton platform and associated devices. Standards is another focus for the association in the areas of wireless communications, telephone support, and office automation. One of the areas receiving attention right now is infrared communi- cations between personal digital assistants (PDAs). Infrared standards do not currently exist, meaning that even though the Newton Messagepad and the Zoomer PDAs from Tandy and Casio both have infrared sensors, the devices use conflicting standards. The upshot is Apple's PDA won't talk to a Zoomer and vice versa. Apple representatives were unavailable to comment as to what the company or the Newton Industry Association are planning to do concerning standards. Apple listed beginning participants in the Newton Industry Associa- tion as licensees, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), component suppliers, and marketing partners. Companies represented included: Alcatel, ARM, Bellsouth Mobilecomm, British Telecom/Cellnet, Cirrus Logic, Deutsche Telecom, GEC Plessey, LSI Logic, Matsushita, Motorola, Paragraph, Scriptel, Sharp, Siemens/ROLM, Telia, Toshiba, Traveling Software, and US West. While the Newton has been well-received by enthusiastic users who have snatched up 50,000 units since the product was launched in August, reports from mainstream media have expressed disappointment and sharp criticism for the PDA. It appears, however, that things may be turning for Apple as four industry publications have awarded the unit top honors. PC Laptop Computers Magazine called the Newton the "Most Promising Portable," PC Magazine awarded the Newton MessagePad first place in its "Design Category," Byte gave it the 1993 Byte Award of Excellence, and Reseller magazine called it the "Best-To-Sell Products of the Year." In new announcements concerning the Messagepad, Apple said Newtonmail is expected to be available in a final commercial release throughout the United States in January 1994. Newtonmail allows Newton users to ex- change text messages easily with each other and anyone who can be reached through online services available on the Internet and is cur- rently available in a limited commercial release in the United States. Newtonmail requires the Newton Fax Modem Card, a credit-card sized Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) modem, for communication via online services as well as the ability to send faxes. ** Interactive CD-ROM Vietnam From CBS, Apple, NY Times ** Joining forces with the formidable reporting resources and archives of the New York Times and the CBS television network, Apple Computer will publish and market "The Vietnam War" late in 1994. Chief reporters on the interactive CD-ROM will be veteran reporter Dan Rather, anchor and managing editor of the CBS Evening News, and R.W. Apple Jr., Wash- ington bureau chief for the New York Times. Other Vietnam War-oriented CD-ROM publications have been available for years from Quanta Press and Wayzata Technologies but these have been more in the nature of archives of data related to the War. While they are highly useful to historians and as reference materials, they lack the immediacy of war reportage which the publisher apparently expects this new disc to bring to the educational environment. The multimedia disc will include more than 700 news articles from The Times and film and video from CBS News' archives. Maps, and even audio recordings will also be included on the CD-ROM, along with the names of US military personnel either killed or missing in action. ** Fast Real-Time Video Codec Board For Mac AVs ** New Video, makers of the Eyeq series of video compression boards for the Macintosh, have announced, what the company claims is, the first compression and processing board for the Macintosh Audio/Visual (AV) line of computers. The company claims its new Eyeq AV board will allow real-time, 30 frames-per-second (fps) full-screen video recording and full-screen playback at the same real-time frame rate. New Video representatives said the Eyeq board has the advantage of incorporating the Intel i750 chip for video compression and playback. It is also claimed to be thousands of dollars less, at the retail price of $1,895, than other video compression hardware add-on products. The board is specifically designed for use in the Quadra 840AV or 660AV and will interface directly with the AV's Digital Audio Video (DAV) connector. It will allow for up to 16-bit graphics over video, 16- bit stereo audio with a sampling rate of up to 48 kilohertz (KHz), sup- ports displays up to 16-inches in size at 832 by 634 picture element (pixel) resolution, and supports the most common video standards inclu- ding NTSC (National Television Standards Committee), PAL, and SECAM using the Macintosh AV's built-in Composite and S-Video out. The board is also fully compatible with Apple's multimedia software extension Quicktime and most popular multimedia authoring tools, offers resizable windows, software playback, and supports algorithms that require an average of only nine megabytes (MB)-per-minute of hard disk storage, company officials said. The board can also produce files with data transfer rates that are low enough to play back from a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) drive over a local area network (LAN) in real time with full-motion and full-screen size. The Eyeq AV requires a Macintosh Quadra 660AV or 840AV, any Apple display up to 16-inches or any 832 by 634 pixel multisync display, a hard disk drive with a recommended storage capacity of 200MB, 8MB of random access memory (RAM) is also recommended, and the System 7.1 operating system. ______________________________________________________ > Modern Yuletide STR Feature """"""""""""""""""""""""""" THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS - MODERN TIMES ========================================= From the Chatlines RT on GEnie - It was the night before Christmas, and one thing was clear That old yuletide spirit no longer was here. Unemployment keeps rising, the crime rate is tripling; 'Boomers elected, and our taxes are crippling; I poured some Jack Daniel's as I watched the TV, Where Donny sang "O Holy Night" to Marie The kids were in bed, getting sleep like they should, Or else they left home, which was almost as good. My wife, with her ball-point, was making a fuss; About folks we sent cards to, who'd sent none to us. "Those ingrates", she thundered, and pounded her fist, "Next year you can bet they'll be crossed off our list!" When out in our yard came a deafening blare, 'Twas our burglar alarm, and I hollered, "Who's there?" I turned on the searchlight, which lit up the night, And armed with my handgun beheld a strange sight, Some Red-Suited Clown, with a white beard immense, Was caught in my eight-foot electrified fence; He called out, "I'm Santa! I bring you no malice!" Said I, "If you're Santa, I'm Telly Savalles." But, lo, as his presence grew clearer to me, I saw in the glare that it might just be he! I called off my Rottweiler, clawing his sleigh, And frisking him twice said, "I think he's okay." I led him inside, where he slumped in a chair, And he told me the following tale of despair, "On Christmas eves past I was jolly and chuckling, But now 'neath the pressures I fear I am buckling." "You'll note I've arrived with no reindeer this year, And without them my sleigh is much harder to steer; Although I would like to continue to use them, The wildlife officials believe I abuse them." "To add to my problem, Ralph Nader dropped by; And told me my sleigh was unsafe in the sky. I now must wear seatbelts, despite my objections, And bring the sleigh in twice a year for inspections." "Last April my workers came forth with demands, And I soon had a general strike on my hands; I couldn't afford to pay unionized elves, So the missus and I did the work by ourselves." "And then, later on, came additional trouble; An avalanche left my fine workshop in rubble, But my Stallstate Insurance was worthless, because, They had shrewdly slipped in a 'No avalanche' clause." "Then, after that, came an I.R.S. audit; The government claimed I was out to defraud it. They finally nailed me for 65 grand; Which I paid through the sale of my house and my land." "And yet I persist, though it gives me a scare, Flying blind through the blanket of smog in the air; Not to mention the street gangs, who fill me with dread, Taking shots at my sleigh as I pass overhead." "My torn-up red suit, and these bruises and swellings, I got fighting muggers in subsidized dwellings. And if you should ask why I'm glowing tonight, It's from flying too close to a nuclear site." Then he arose from his chair and heaved a great sigh, Though I couldn't help notice a small tear in his eye; "I've tried", he declared, "To reverse each defeat, But I fear that today I've become obsolete." He slumped out the door, and returned to his sleigh And with these final words he went his own way; "No longer can I do the job that's required, "I'm going to call Clinton and try to get hired." ___________________________________________________ > QMODEMPRO for WINDOWS STR InfoFile """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" QmodemPro for Windows v1.0 ========================== Mustang Software unveiled the new Windows version of its popular QmodemPro communications program during COMDEX/Fall '93. Called QmodemPro for Windows v1.0, it is the first communications program to offer support for both data and Fax communication in one integrated package. File transfers are supported using Zmodem, CompuServe B+, Kermit, Ymodem, Ymodem/G, Xmodem/1K, Xmodem/1KG, Xmodem/CRC, Xmodem, or ASCII. A built-in GIF viewer allows you to view GIF graphics files as they are being downloaded. You can zoom any GIF or BMP file, and even mark and copy portions of the picture to the Windows clipboard. Users can easily upload files using drag-and-drop from the Windows File Manager to QmodemPro's upload window. QmodemPro for Windows offers a wide selection of terminal emulations including: ADDS VP60, ADM 3A, ANSI, Avatar, DG 100, DG 200, DG 210, Hazeltine 1500, Heath 19, IBM 3101, TTY, TVI 910, TVI 912, TVI 920, TVI 925, TVI 950, TVI 955, Vidtex, VT 52, VT 100, VT 102, VT 220, VT 320, Wyse 30, Wyse 50, Wyse 60, Wyse 75, Wyse 85, Wyse 100, and Wyse 185. BBS callers will appreciate the addition of Doorway and RIPscrip to this impressive list of supported emulations. QmodemPro for Windows is the first Windows product to offer support for RIPscrip, which is quickly becoming the de facto graphics standard for bulletin board systems worldwide, including Mustang Software's Wildcat! product. Besides offering full data communication, MSI has also integrated both send and receive Fax support directly into QmodemPro for Windows. Using any Class 1 or Class 2 Fax modem, QmodemPro for Windows can send text files as well as PCX and BMP graphics files. Cover pages can also be attached to these documents. Automatic Fax receive is also supported and a complete Fax viewer includes thumbnail sketches, zooming, copying, and printing. The phonebook allows you to view the dialing directory in a traditional tabular form, or you can use the icon view mode to create a true icon window of your online services, making it a simple double click to dial, connect, and be online. Each dialing directory entry can hold up to five phone numbers, the default device, emulation, transfer protocol, user ID, password, login script, RIP icon directory, and macro file. A note file can be attached to any dialing entry allowing you to add your own notes and comments about the dialing entry. QmodemPro for Windows even allows you to review the scrollback buffer while you're capturing information online. You can customize the terminal window using a variety of fonts. The screen behind the terminal window can be customized with your favorite pattern or wallpaper file giving you full control of your desktop. Sporting a completely new Script Language Interface for QmodemPro (SLIQ), QmodemPro gives you unparalleled power, speed, and flexibility. Based on the popular BASIC language structure, it adds extensions for the Windows communication environment and includes a Quicklearn feature for creating scripts without having to learn the language. It even includes a compiler for compiling the scripts so they run faster and are more secure. A powerful script debugger and full editor are also included. QmodemPro for Windows allows you to take advantage of the Windows multitasking environment. Download files or capture data in the background, while working in a word processor or spreadsheet. QmodemPro for Windows makes full use of the 16550 UART, Digiboard multi serial port card, or any other intelligent serial interface with appropriate Windows drivers. Also supported are Interrupt 14 compatible LAN modems and other devices. The newest member of the QmodemPro family now supports sound cards, allowing you to assign standard Windows WAV files to certain events in your communications session. For example, you can have a WAV file played when you connect to a BBS or when your download is completed. There are many events you can assign sounds to: connect, dialing, file transfer success and failure, and many others. QmodemPro for Windows has a suggested retail price of $139.00. This product will be available within the next few weeks in the over 300 Software Etc. stores throughout the United States. Software Etc. has also put QmodemPro for Windows on their "Reservation System" so your local store can reserve your copy. To find the Software Etc. store in your area dial (800) 328-4646. Qmodem, QmodemPro, and Wildcat! BBS registered owners can upgrade to QmodemPro for Windows for a limited time for only $50.00 plus shipping. Have your registration number handy and dial Mustang Software at (800) 999-9619 or (805) 873-2500 to place your order. Please expect a 4 to 6 week back order for delivery, order today to be one of the first to receive this program. Resellers in the United States can order QmodemPro for Windows directly from INGRAM MICRO. The part number is 185415. YOu can reach INGRAM MICRO by dialing (800) 456-8000. Customers in the U.K. can reserve their copy by contacting Telesystems LTD in London. Telesystems can be reached at +44 494 866365, FAX +44 494 866050, or BBS +44 494 891903. Customers in Scandinavia will be pleased to know that Swedish, Danish, and Norwegian versions will be available soon after the U.S. version. Please contact PC Security in Norway for additional information. PC Security can be reached at +67 53 11 53, FAX +67 53 63 25, or BBS +67 58 33 58. Customers in Australia should contact Banksia Technology Pty. Ltd in Lane Cove, NSW. Banksia can be reached at 61 2 418-6033, Fax +61 2 428-5460 or BBS +61 2 418-7693. For additional information regarding QmodemPro for Windows, QmodemPro for DOS, or the Wildcat! Bulletin Board System, please contact: Jim Harrer, President/CEO Mustang Software, Inc. P.O. Box 2264 Bakersfield, CA 93303 Sales (800) 999-9619 Office (805) 873-2500 BBS (805) 873-2400 MSI can also be reached via e-mail at sales@mustang.com, CompuServe (GO PCVENA, section 9), America Online (Keyword = Mustang), and GEnie (MUSTANG RT). """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" :HOW TO GET YOUR OWN GENIE ACCOUNT: _________________________________ Set your communications software to Half Duplex (or Local Echo) Call: (with modem) 800-638-8369. Upon connection type HHH (RETURN after that). Wait for the U#= prompt. Type: XTX99587,CPUREPT then, hit RETURN. GEnie Information copyright (C) 1991 by General Electric Information Services/GEnie, reprinted by permission """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" ___ ___ _____ _______ /___| /___| /_____| /_______/ The Macintosh RoundTable /____|/____| /__/|__| /__/ ________________________ /_____|_____|/__/_|__|/__/ /__/|____/|__|________|__/ /__/ |___/ |__|_/ |__|_/____ Managed by SyndiComm /__/ |__/ |__|/ |__|______/ An Official Forum of the International Computer Users Group *** STReport available in MAC RT *** ASCII TEXT for ALL GEnie users! MAC/APPLE SECTION (II) ====================== Randy Noak, Editor Mac Report by Randy Noak I just got finished ordering my children's software Christmas presents. My three-year old son wants the, "Dinosaur Game" (Dinosaur Adventure to the uninitiated) and my almost seven-year old daughter wants "Story Book Weaver". No problem. I'll help Santa all I can. All it took was a toll-free phone call, and I'll have the software, ready to wrap, tomorrow. What a life. Not so easy is purchasing the other gifts that they want. Crowds, surly sales people, traffic. No wonder old Ebeneezer Scrooge was so grumpy! Suffice it to say I'm scouring the mail order catalogs and the on-line malls for my Holiday gift needs. A few phone calls (or keystrokes) and I'll be D-O-N-E, with only the wrapping to finish. Life is good. Those of you following my never ending quest to feed my voracious Syquest drive's cartridge appetite may recall that I ordered and received a couple of new cartridges last week. Well, I'm sorry to report that one is now completely full and the other is close to being full. The culprit? Clip art for my DTP biz. The solution? Ideally, Clip Art Anonymous. Realistically, more Syquest cartridges. Maybe I should get one of those humongous magneto-optical drives? Yeah, right! Mac Report Rule #1 Data always expands to fit available storage space. Mac Report Rule #2 Data = storage space - 1meg. Enough of my pontificating. Let's get on with this weeks column. Featured is Jeff Coe's review of DiskWorld, Apple PR about StarCore and the Newton, a sneak peek at the new PowerPC Macs, and much more. Let's go! ____________________________________________ > DISKWORLD STR Review """""""""""""""""""" DISKWORLD The Macintosh Software Subscription Reviewed by Jeff Coe for STReport Disk based magazines aren't anything new, but they do offer an alternative to the more conventional print media, much the same way that STReport does. Some are entirely text based, but others go a bit further by offering the subscriber a few bonus pieces of software, such as demo versions of reviewed or featured programs, graphic screens to illustrate articles or whatever. There are a few others still that are almost entirely made up of useable programs, with a small number of text files thrown in for filler. DISKWORLD from Softdisk Publishing is a member of that latter category. It also happens to be very well put together and not at all a bad deal if you think about it. What it is... DISKWORLD is a monthly disk subscription for Macintosh computers. It comes on a standard 800k format disk, so it will be useable by just about any Mac owner, although you do need a Hard drive. Each disk contains a single self extracting archive file that expands up to between 1.2 and 1.6 megabytes of disk space. The compaction was done with a Shareware program called COMPACT PRO (not included), so that if you have this utility, single files could be extracted, but it's just as easy to extract the entire disk, check out all the goodies, and dump the stuff you don't want. To make it easier to check out those same said goodies, each DISKWORLD issue features a menu shell type program from which you can read articles or documentation files, view graphics (clip-art), launch one of the included programs, or copy those programs to another disk or folder. It should be noted that all the software DISKWORLD puts on their disks is copyrighted, available only through them and is not to be confused with Public Domain software. Anyway, the menu program is very well done, with large icon buttons representing all the major items available to you. A single click on an icon, which quite often animates when you click it, will call up that program to be launched or copied. You can also choose to read a short Doc file for the program as well. I was given the chance to examine three issues of DISKWORLD for the purposes of this review. Each of those disks contained at least one or two games, some sort of operating system extension or control panel, an assortment of clip-art and an application program. Also scattered in there were a couple of educational Hypercard-like programs: One on volcanoes and one on pirates. Both were very colorful and informative. Another utility called FAST FACTOR will give you all the factors of a given number. AREA CODE DA lets you find out area codes for the entire country. WORD-UP helps increase your vocabulary. These last programs would be quite useful to students. One issue included a new custom font file, provided in TrueType and Postscript formats, called MARKING PEN. It looks just like the name says, as if you wrote it with a marker. As far as the games go, there seems to be a real lean towards card games (solitaire versions) and puzzles. Both of the card games I was given are fun to play and more importantly, easy to learn. Other games are CRISS-CROSS, where you have to fit a list of words into what appears to be an empty crossword puzzle, TILES OF THE NILE, which is a sort of GO or OTHELLO style of game (alot of fun!), and REFLECTION which is sort of like... no, it really isn't like anything I've ever seen but it's great fun. It's on issue #60. In addition to the programs, you'll find editorials, feature columns, a letters to the editor section and all kinds of other neat articles in every issue. What it costs... DISKWORLD is available through subscription only. There are several options you can choose, based on the number of issues (or months) you sign on for. Naturally your per disk cost will be lower with a longer term subscription. The rates are as follows. $29.95 for 3 months $49.95 for 6 months $89.95 for 12 months and $149.95 for 2 years. Included with each subscription is their back-issue catalog from which you can order, you guessed it, back issues! While the cost might at first glance seem pretty steep, consider what it would cost you to download this much software from an on-line service, or order it through a PD software house. My GEnie bill is much higher then that, and I'm not even talking about long-distance charges here. Think about it. Who sells it... DISKWORLD is published by: Softdisk Publishing P.O. Box 30008 Shreveport, LA 71130-0008 (318) 221-8718 or call toll free... 1-800-831-2694 They can also be reached on-line at the following addresses: on GEnie send email to... Softdisk.Inc on America Online it's... SoftdiskVB and on CompuServe it's... 73567,2030 By the way, Softdisk Publishing also offers subscriptions for IBM clones, Apple II and IIgs, and for Commodore computers. The same toll free number can be used to order or get more information. Give 'em a call. ___________________________________ Fresh from an online conference on GEnie, Robert Harris of Callisto Software tells of a special deal on Callisto's hot game, Super Maze Wars. "You wanted the scoop on the Spectre Competitive Upgrade. We figured that if Spectre would not let you upgrade from Spectre to Supreme, that we would let you upgrade to Super Maze Wars." "$19.95 for one-pack ($64.95 retail value), $15.00 for each additional player. $5.95 shipping/handling, (MA residents add 5% sales tax)." Call (800)348-5324. Visa/ Mastercard & Checks accepted Callisto Corporation 182 West Central St Natick, MA 01760 When I asked what proof of Spectre ownership was required, I was told, "We'll take your word for it." Good deal! ______________________________________ > POWER PC - SNEAK PEEK! STR Feature """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" Mac Report PowerPC Sneak Peek!! =============================== PDM Code named PDM, the bottom of the line PowerPC Mac has a 60mhz PowerPC 601 chip. Priced at around $2000, it has 8 megs of RAM and a 160 meg (or 230) hard drive and comes in a Quadra 610 type box. A built-in CD-ROM is an option. Carl Sagan Next in the line-up is the "Carl Sagan" (who thinks up these code names?). With a 66mhz 601, a 230 or 500 meg hard drive, 8 megs of RAM three NuBus slots and an optional CD-ROM drive in a Quadra 650 type case. Price? Around $3000 Cold Fusion Top o' the line "Cold Fusion" is based on an 80mhz 601. Priced at around $4000, it comes in a Quadra 800 type box with 8-16 megs of RAM, a 230 or 500 meg hard drive, and a CD-ROM drive. Look here for more PowerPC info in the weeks ahead. If you've been reading this column for a while, you know that I'm really pumped up about CD-ROM, so here's some more CD-ROM PR. ___________________________________________ > STAR CORE STR InfoFile """""""""""""""""""""" MOVED OVER PR NEWSWIRE AT 8:17 AM, EDT, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7, 1993. Apple's StarCore Group Announces Distribution Agreements with InterOptica Publishing Ltd. and Time Warner Interactive Group SANTA CLARA, California--December 7, 1993--StarCore, the new software publishing and distribution group formed by Apple Computer, Inc., has announced agreements with InterOptica Publishing Ltd. and the Time Warner Interactive Group to distribute CD-ROM software for Macintosh and Windows platforms worldwide. The new agreements allow StarCore to distribute more than 40 CD-ROM titles from the two companies under its StarCore affiliate label program by year's end. With the addition of these titles, Apple's StarCore group will bring to market more than 50 CD-ROM titles in 1993. InterOptica has signed on with Apple's StarCore group to provide exclusive worldwide distribution of 25 CD-ROM titles including eight electronic guides which InterOptica has published in conjunction with The Sierra Club: The Blue Whale; The Amazon Rainforest; The Grand Canyon; The Great Barrier Reef; The Indian Monsoon; Mount Everest; The Wildebeest Migration; and Seven Natural Wonders of the World, an omnibus edition containing all seven titles. The InterOptica/Sierra Club CD-ROM titles, featuring animations, illustrations, original interactive text and narrated video and photo vignettes, can be played using either a Macintosh or Windows-based personal computer. In addition, StarCore will distribute InterOptica's Journey to the Heart of Japan; Astonishing Asia; and the Multimedia Dictionary of Knowledge, based on the best-selling book, Dictionary of Cultural Literacy. StarCore will also distribute dozens of multimedia games, interactive information, and early learning titles published by the Time Warner Interactive Group including Hell Cab, the critically acclaimed interactive time-travel adventure featuring virtual environments; Murmurs of the Earth: The Voyager Interstellar Record, a unique collection of colorful images and sounds of the Earth recorded from the spacecraft Voyager; and the Lifemap Series, created by the California Academy of Sciences. StarCore distributes both StarCore published and affiliate label software through thousands of outlets nationwide, and throughout Europe and the Pacific Rim. StarCore also assists companies working under the StarCore affiliate label program in marketing their products through in-store promotions, catalogs, brochures and public relations. Apple's StarCore group publishes and distributes software on CD-ROM for Macintosh and Windows platforms and on PCMCIA cards and diskettes for the Newton platform. Apple's StarCore titles are focused around six software categories: edutainment, sports, entertainment, reference, business applications and self-improvement. ____________________________________________ While we really don't need screensavers, they are fun. Here's a little PR from Bit Jugglers, makers of UnderWare. > UNDERWARE STR InfoFile """""""""""""""""""""" News Release IMMEDIATE RELEASE MacUser Editors Name UnderWare as Finalist for Industry's Highest Honor and Most Valued Endorsement. Mountain View, California, December 8, 1993~MacUser, the leading monthly magazine for business users of Macintosh computers, has selected UnderWare from Bit Jugglers, Inc. as the 1993 Editors' Choice Award finalist for Best New Desktop Diversion. The "Eddy" Award recognizes the best Macintosh products released throughout the year. Finalists were selected based on their technological innovation, quality, performance, user friendliness, and value to Macintosh users. UnderWare is a wacky and wild desktop animator, interactive screen saver, and background customizer that runs animation on the Macintosh desktop, under your windows and icons! UnderWare uses over 25 modules to liven up the area under windows and icons. In one module the desktop gradually becomes overgrown with prehistoric plant life as dinosaurs tromp across the screen. In another, footballs bounce off windows, icons, and even the screen. Others feature rubber chickens flying in tight formation, babies crawling out from behind application windows, and a devious wizard who uses his magic on the desktop. Unlike conventional screen savers, UnderWare's animation interacts with the Macintosh environment. In one module, a fire-breathing dragon melts the trash can; in another, folders sprout legs and walk off the screen. Tropical butterflies, pixies, ballerinas, robbers, flying saucers, babies, rubber chickens and a philosophical dragon are just a few of the characters that perform on screen. In addition, UnderWare runs After Dark modules from Berkeley Systems, allowing well-known screen savers such as Flying Toasters and Fish! to run in the Finder on the desktop. UnderWare also features a built-in desktop pattern customizer and over 75 professionally designed patterns including marble tiles, autumn, water drops, and Bit Jugglers' interpretation of cyberspace. The 1993 Editors' Choice Awards will be presented to products in 36 categories at a gala black-tie ceremony on January 4, 1994 in San Francisco. Special awards will honor the Hardware and Software Products of the Year as well as recognize the Breakthrough Technology of the Year. In addition, two personal achievement awards will be presented to individuals who have made significant contributions to the Macintosh industry. The suggested retail price of UnderWare is $59.95. Bit Jugglers, Inc. is headquartered at 785 Castro Street, Suite C, Mountain View, CA 94041. The phone number is 415-968-3908 and the fax number is 415-968-5358. AppleLink: BitJugglers, AOL: BitJuggler, Internet: juggler@netcom.com, CIS: 72040,2513 ______________________________________ More Apple PR. This time it's about the Newton. I lust after a Newton, but, to assuage my conscience, feel that I must justify my purchase by finding a practical use for a PDA. You know. Something that would make my life easier. Something that would be easier to do with a Newton than with pencil and paper. Something like... Hey! A golf scoring product. How practical, although generally my scores are high enough to need a PDC (Personal Digital Cray). > NEWTON DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE STR InfoFile """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" MOVED OVER PR NEWSWIRE AT 8:16 AM, EDT, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7, 1993. Developers Line Up Behind Newton At Upcoming Developer Conference SANTA CLARA, California--December 7, 1993--Apple Computer, Inc. expects approximately one thousand developers to attend the first international Newton Platform Development Conference opening today at the Santa Clara Convention Center, Santa Clara, California. This industry-wide event is designed to offer third party and in-house corporate developers an opportunity to join the growing family of companies from around the world who are lining up behind Newton technology. "The Newton Development Conference is a watershed event for the Newton platform. Following the release of the first rush of feature- rich, robust third party applications, the conference will allow current and new developers to share learning experiences and identify future opportunities," said John Payne, President of Fingertip Technologies, Inc. "The service provided by Apple's developer technical support group has been first class, and we look forward to a live forum in which to work through questions, issues and the substantial new functionality which is becoming available in the development tools." Fingertip Technologies, Inc. shipped its first Newton title, Fingertip for Golf--a personal, mobile, golf-scoring product, in November 1993. "The Newton platform is a fun and powerful environment for developing software with fewer of the compatibility issues developers often face using other platforms," said Cliff Joyce, President of Dubl -Click Software, Inc. "The Newton Toolkit has been evolving at a rapid pace,and the Newton Platform Development Conference will be a valuable educational forum in which to learn about the expanding capabilities of Newton developer tools. This conference is the first event wholly oriented toward Newton, and will be a great opportunity to meet other players in the Newton developer community." Dubl-Click Software shipped its first Newton title, GoFigure--a customizable combination of calculators in one easy-to-use program, in November 1993. "The knowledge we gain from the Newton Platform Development Conference will significantly influence our strategic plans for Newton software development," said David Ries, General Manager of Entry Products for State Of The Art, Inc. "By hearing about new and exciting activities within the developer community we hope to learn what works in the Newton world, and increase our productivity by using the developer tools to their maximum advantage, improving our time to market." State Of The Art will begin shipping ExpensePlus, Newton software which collects, organizes and reports business expenses, this month. "We are over the moon at the enthusiasm with which the developer community has responded to the Newton Platform Development Conference", said Philip Ivanier, manager of developer relations for Apple's Personal Interactive Electronics (PIE) division. "This conference will be an enormously productive and inspirational event which will contribute to the powerful momentum we have already witnessed among Newton developers, and help to bring an impressive flood of Newton titles to the marketplace." Industry support for the Newton platform continues to gain momentum. More than 2,000 Newton development systems--Newton Toolkits--have been sold throughout the world. Over a dozen applications and titles for the Newton platform have been shipped by third party and in-house corporate developers, and more than forty other companies have announced forthcoming products for Newton. These titles cover a wide range of solutions including communications, healthcare, sales force automation, finance, office productivity, education, real estate, and travel. ________________________________________ > STR Mail Call "...a place for the readers to be heard" """"""""""""" STReport's MailBag """""""""""""""""" Messages * NOT EDITED * for content ----------------------------------- Aldus sends word that their "Preferred Customers", can purchase Aldus Fetch at almost 25% off the retail price and they will throw in a free PhotoDisc. Aldus Fetch is a graphics cataloging program that has been judged best o' the bunch by some of the hard-copy magazines. The PhotoDisc contains 100 high-resolution photos and is a $300 value. Total cost? $225. Call Aldus at 1-800-685-3612. A pleasant surprise arrived from the Weyerhaeuser Paper Company. Samples of their new laser printer paper. Weyerhaeuser has increased the brightness of their First Choice Premium Laser Paper to give more contrast for sharper reproduction. The difference is really noticeable too. Also included is a reply card to get a free 25-sheet sample pack. Contact Weyerhaeuser at 1-215-2521-9220. Compuserve Magazine was delivered today. This issue has a real neat article about accessing the Internet via CIS. Lots more is featured also. Compuserve Magazine is free to Compuserve subscribers. Sign-up info should be included in the literature that came with your modem. That's it for this week. Next week, I hope to have a review of Carriers at War and lots more stuff. As always, please feel free to send your comments or questions to me at: America OnLine: STReportRN Compuserve: 70323,1031 GEnie: R.NOAK ********************************************************************** IMPORTANT NOTICE! ================= STReport International Online Magazine is available every week for your reading pleasure on DELPHI. STReport's readers are invited to join DELPHI and become a part of a friendly community of enthusiastic computer users there. SIGNING UP WITH DELPHI ====================== Using a personal computer and modem, members worldwide access DELPHI services via a local phone call JOIN --DELPHI -------------- Via modem, dial up DELPHI at 1-800-695-4002 then... When connected, press RETURN once or twice and... At Password: type STREPORT and press RETURN. DELPHI's Basic Plan offers access for only $6.00 per hour, for any baud rate. The $5.95 monthly fee includes your first hour online. For more information, call: DELPHI Member Services at 1-800-544-4005 DELPHI is a service of General Videotex Corporation of Cambridge, MA. Try DELPHI for $1 an hour! For a limited time, you can become a trial member of DELPHI, and receive 5 hours of evening and weekend access during this month for only $5. If you're not satisfied, simply cancel your account before the end of the calendar month with no further obligation. If you keep your account active, you will automatically be enrolled in DELPHI's 10/4 Basic Plan, where you can use up to 4 weekend and evening hours a month for a minimum $10 monthly charge, with additional hours available at $3.96. But hurry, this special trial offer will expire soon! To take advantage of this limited offer, use your modem to dial 1-800-365-4636. Press <RET> once or twice. When you get the Password: prompt, type IP26 and press <RET> again. Then, just answer the questions and within a day or two, you'll officially be a member of DELPHI! DELPHI-It's getting better all the time! ********************************************************************** ATARI/JAG SECTION (III) ======================= Editor; Dana P. Jacobson WHAT'S NEW IN THE CIS ATARI FORUMS (December 10) TELECOMMUNICATIONS "STORM" The shareware program you may have been waiting for ... STORM by Alan Page. Storm Version 1.00 is a shareware telecommunications program from the original author of Flash. Features loadable Xmodem, Ymodem, Zmodem and BPlus file transfer modules, plus VT100 and Vidtex loadable terminal emulations. Basic script language, background file transfer and multiple editing windows with full word wrap. Download STORM.LZH from LIBRARY 2 of the Atari Productivity Forum (GO ATARIPRO). PSYCHO PIG... Psycho Pig 2 is a platform game of some magnitude written in STOS. Guide the porker, who thinks he is Rambo, through four tricky levels to rescue the baby crocodiles. You'll need to download files PIG1.ZIP and PIG2.ZIP from LIBRARY 1 of the Atari Arts Forum (GO ATARIARTS) to play this game. WORD QUEST VERSION 4.00 Download file WQ1_4.TOS from LIBRARY 5 of the Atari Productivity Forum (GO ATARIPRO) for a substantial upgrade of Word Quest; word search puzzle factory. Now supports use of international characters, many new dialog boxes and more! File is self- extracting. Includes documentation and several puzzles. NEW FROM MISSIONWARE IN THE ATARI VENDORS FORUM (GO ATARIVEN) Download file F22_PR.TXT from LIBRARY 10 for a Missionware Software Press Release regarding the release of Flash II version 2.2 - now fully Falcon030 compatible! Download file F22UPG.LZH from LIBRARY 10 for the FLASH II Version 2.2 update. This file will upgrade any old version of Flash II to version 2.2. UnLZH the file and follow the easy directions built into the program. See the press release for details on the upgrade. This version provides for full Falcon030 compatibility and adds support for all serial ports on the TT030 and MegaSTe. ____________________________ > From the Atari Editor's Desk "Saying it like it is!" """""""""""""""""""""""""""" by Dana P. Jacobson Yes, there's only 2 more weeks left until Christmas! Happy Chanukah to those who celebrate this Jewish holiday which started earlier this week. Those at Atari, as well as all Atarians, certainly have a lot to be grateful for this holiday season - talk of the Jaguar is dominating the electronic gaming world this year! Atari has come out with a certain winner. They're learning, finally, how to do things up right. Atari is taking no chances with blowing it this time around. The first problem encountered with the Jaguar are some bad switchboxes, and Atari has held back some Jaguar shipments to rectify the problem. They're also doing the right thing and replacing those that made it to the public. Hats off for discovering the problem early, and fixing it quickly. While we're on the subject of the Jaguar, I'd like to address a few questions put to me recently about our lack of in-depth coverage of this new phenomenon from Atari. I reminded them, as I will here, that STReport is primarily an online magazine that focuses on the computing side of things. While we'll certainly provide you with some of the news relative to the Jaguar (see some Q & A stuff later on), or any other non-computer product from Atari (the Lynx as another example) from time to time, our readers have always provided feedback that they'd prefer a non-gaming focus. There are magazines that are geared toward the gaming industry that we'd be glad to lead you. As a rule, we'll bring you important announcements and occasional interesting items, but I/we would prefer to leave the bulk of this material to those whose primary interest lies in gaming. And, to be perfectly candid, we just don't have the resources at the present time! This could change if support staff and feedback increases. For now, we'll continue to follow the current path. While we're still on the subject, there have been some interesting questions appearing in the ATARIGAMING Forum on CIS recently. While our STReport CIS guru, Joe Mirando, usually handles most online coverage of the activities there, the ATARIGAMING (formerly the Atari 8-bit Forum) was not really covered by Joe. But, that doesn't mean I can't include some bits of info that I may find (right Joe?!). Anyway, both Sam Tramiel and Bill Rehbock have been popping in occasionally to answer some Jaguar questions. Here are a couple that Bill answered that may prove informative: Chris (et al), Q: How do I get specs on developing for the Jaguar? A: People interested in Jaguar software development should send a fax to 1-408-745-2088. Include: Company name, mailing address, phone number, fax number, and brief company/personal background relating to software development. Due to the high volume of inquires, we do prioritize the mailing of information kits according to background (SNES/Genesis/Computer) titles that you or your company may have been involved with, etc. Companies wishing to become licencees may sign-on and order preliminary development documentation and support for $299 USD, which can go toward the complete development system fee of $7500 USD. Q: Can the Jaguar be networked to another computer? A: Yes, it can, but there naturally would have to be application-specific software running on both the PC and Jaguar. The Jaguar is equipped with (among other interfaces) a one megabyte per second serial interface (suitable for connection to cable, telephone, etc.) as well as a 9600 baud serial port (that with and appropriate low-cost interface) conforms to RS-232 standards. The 9600 baud port as shipped on Jaguar is set up for ComLynx multi console networking, just like the Atari Lynx. -Bill Rehbock @ Atari About the CD-ROM, what formats will the CD-ROM drive play? I assume audio and Jaguar s/w. Any Photo CD? Other formats? Marty Ron: The CD-ROM unit is scheduled for summer release. Marty: Right now, we intend to support Photo CD, as well as MPEG via add-on cartridge options. The drive is also capable of optionally supporting CD+G, although it's a pretty small market. -Bill @ Atari As I mentioned last week, news related to Atari computers has really been slim lately. Admittedly, there are some fascinating new products coming out related to MIDI and graphics, but overall, non- niche products (new ones) are few and far between. Still, there are folks who are interested in MIDI and graphics products, so I hope to line up some reviews in the very near future. There is interesting news about the new Atari clone being distributed by Lexicor, the Medusa. Last week we provided you with some details and I've included an update to that information later on in this column. It really sounds great! I've also been told to expect even more information shortly that we'll bring to you in an upcoming issue. I've also been teased with the possibility of "playing" with one after the holidays, so that should prove interesting too! I've also read that Atari has started production of those promised TTs and stock should be available soon. It's not known where these machines are headed, but it would seem certain that some will be earmarked for U.S. dealers and developers. It's also learned that a new machine, whether an offshoot of the Falcon or something entirely new, will be designed utilizing the Jaguar's chipset. It may also work in conjunction with the Falcon, but I'm not clear about that as yet. As some at Atari have said, they have not abandoned the computer side of Atari and it seems that this is true. Atari is devoting most of its time and resources to making sure the Jaguar gets the attention it requires. While this may dismay some computer users and developers, current staffing at Atari makes it almost impossible to split up its time to a number of projects simultaneously. I believe that things will improve enough in the near future that this will change for the better. Mark that in your diaries! There's some interesting news and announcements, so let's get to them! _________________________________________ > CYberDrome!STR InfoFile """"""""""""""""""""""" CYBERDROME ========== Now shipping version 1.2! FROM: MISSIONWARE SOFTWARE 354 N. Winston Drive Palatine, Illinois 60067-4132 United States of America phone 708-359-9565 The Cyberdrome 3-D Virtual Universe is now even better! If you thought your nightmares were bad before, just wait! But remember, it's still ONLY a game! Missionware Software is proud to present an upgrade to one of the best games ever for Atari computers. If you don't already own Cyberdrome, this is your chance to experience the thrill of fighting CJER, the rogue Artificial Intelligence virus. And not only can you fight CJER yourself, but you can play with a friend too! Cyberdrome works on all Atari computers, including the Falcon, in ST Low or Medium compatibility modes. Just What is CYBERDROME? Cyberdrome is the name of a Virtual Universe existing inside of a permanent computer Memory Matrix designed to "grow" Artificial Life programs. While intended to be a place for humans to peacefully interact with data via Virtual Reality simulators, it is now under attack by deadly, virus-infected programs controlled by a rogue Artificial Intelligence system called CJER. The mission of the CyberForce is to rid CyberDrome of the virus infected programs. Join the Cybernauts in their quest by running the "Cyberdrome" program on your Atari computer. Doing so will create a link with a 3-dimensional Hoverjet Construct and allow you to enter a scale-model of CyberDrome and practice fighting the deadly attack programs. Cyberdrome Features: -> Combines the realism of a real-time flight simulator with arcade action plus problem-solving and exploration of a dungeon game. -> Single player or 2-player/2-computer mode using a serial cable or modem. -> All elements of single-player mode are active in the 2-player/2-computer mode. -> Includes special 2-player Head-to-Head competition mode to increase your skills as a Hoverjet pilot. -> Multiple level missions allow for novice to advanced pilot training plus a special training mission for beginning pilots. -> Official CyberForce ranks awarded to players for successful completion of each of the six Mission Levels included. CyberDrome Version 1.2 - New features: 1) More realistic Raider movements - Raiders never stop, they keep shooting and running all the time. They come at you from all sides and are very unpredictable (and difficult to hit with conventional pulsars (see part 3 below) . 2) Drone (in solo mode) now acts as real wingman - it attacks the Raiders in very realistic ways and it is fun sometimes to just sit there and watch a Raider and the Drone battle it out. 3) New Weapon: Bore-sight Tracking Pulsar. Locks on to nearest badguy; just press the trigger key to fire. This weapon is really needed against the new fast moving Raiders and also works against the Predators as well as Seeker missiles. Experienced players will find that this new weapon makes it pretty easy to kill the Predators. They may still use the older Vertical Pulsars to give the game more challenge, but for everyone else, this will be the weapon of choice against everything on the grid. 4) New Sky: We've added a "painted" image of a gridded sky with parts of it "eaten" away. It really adds the "other world" feeling of the game. 5) Weapons-Scope view is no longer wire-frame. Everything uses solid-filled polygons now. The Weapons-Scope still uses the heads-up display and the rest of it works the same. 6) Start Time: Every level now starts at the BEGINNING of an ATTACK Cycle, so there is only a few minutes to wait before the action begins. The rest of the Cycles remain unchanged. Note: Modem vs Direct Computer-to-Computer connection: Version 1.2 of CyberDrome checks serial numbers at bootup. It will not permit team play *over a modem* if serial numbers match. You must have separate copies of CyberDrome to play this way. However, you can play CyberDrome using the same copy when using a direct, null-modem connection. Upgrades are now available directly from Missionware Software. You need no new documentation for version 1.2, therefore we can keep the upgrade cost low. And if you enjoy playing in "Team" mode, we've got an even better deal for you. If you are a registered owner of CyberDrome and would like to update to version 1.2, just send in $15 to receive your new version 1.2 disk. If you and a Teammate would both like to upgrade, the cost is only $25! You both must be registered owners. No matter what upgrade method you choose, make sure to include your full name and address AND the serial number(s) off of your disk. If the registered name and serial number does not match, we will not be able to process your upgrade. If you aren't sure whether or not you are registered, include your old master disk. Would you like to join the CyberForce? If so, this is a great time to do it. CyberDrome normally sells for $39.95 plus $4 shipping and handling, for a total cost of $43.95. But now you can purchase CyberDrome for $39.95 with shipping and handling included! That's a savings of $4 over your usual mail order costs. Even better is our special deal when 2 of you purchase CyberDrome for Team play. If both copies are shipped to one address, your cost is only $69.95, shipping included! Now *that's* a deal you can't pass up. (These special deals are for USA and Canadian customers only. Overseas customers must include an extra $4 for shipping, making the total purchase price $43.95 (for a single copy purchase) or $73.95 (for a Team purchase). Even so, that's a savings of $4 over our usual overseas shipping and handling rate of $8.) The special deals above are available through January 31, 1994. Missionware Software accepts payment for upgrades and new purchases as follows: Personal checks Money Orders Visa MasterCard To order, or for more information, contact: Missionware Software 354 N. Winston Drive Palatine, IL 60067-4132 United States of America Phone 708-359-9565 _____________________________________________ > Palm to Palm STR InfoFile """"""""""""""""""""""""" PRESS RELEASE Contact: Marty Mankins (General Information) (801)222-0120 Peggy Jorgensen (Advertising) (801)222-0120 "PORTABILITY!" DELAYED UNTIL 1994, "TAKE IT WITH YOU" RESUMES PUBLISHING SCHEDULE, ON-LINE PUBLICATION SCHEDULE CHANGE OREM, UT -- December 6, 1993 -- Perfection Applied announced today the delay of its forthcoming color publication, PORTABILITY! until the first quarter of 1994. Also announced was the publication of new issues of TAKE IT WITH YOU, which has been in hiatus since late August 1993. The last issue of TAKE IT WITH YOU was published in late August (Spring/Summer - Vol. 3 No. 3). "The decision to halt publication with TAKE IT WITH YOU was made for various reasons," says Marty Mankins, Editor of both TAKE IT WITH YOU and PORTABILITY! "We have branched out into other areas and spent most of our time working on PORTABILITY!" PORTABILITY! is a full-color publication that combines the coverage of portable computers (palmtops, PDAs, pen-based computing, subnotebooks, laptops) with the expanding world of portable consumer electronics (cassette, compact disc, MiniDisc, Digital Compact Cassette, cellular and cordless phones, personal electronics). The publication is targeted towards all ages, but is focused on the college to early business crowd, who spends over $1 billion annually on personal electronics and portable computers. "With the delay of PORTABILITY!, we can assure it will be a top- notch publication," says Mankins, "And be able to continue offering TAKE IT WITH YOU as an important information source for portable computing is a key to our subscribers and target audience." PORTABILITY! was intended for a release in June of 1993, but ran into several production problems which caused several months of delays. "We have worked out our problems and will announce a date after the new year," said Mankins. TAKE IT WITH YOU, which has been in publication since October 1991, will resume its regular publishing schedule in January 1994 with coverage every two weeks. This will allow the user to keep updated on the latest portable computing scene as well as getting the information in a more timely manner. "This was a big importance to many of our subscribers, who relied on our information for making decisions with their portable computer needs." Mankins reports. Also announced today was the change of the on-line publication, PALM TO PALM, which is a text-only periodical that appears on a number of on-line services, such as CompuServe and America OnLine. The publication will be produced once a month now, instead of it's sporadic publishing schedule of a few issues a year. "PALM TO PALM is a great vehicle for getting comparisons and other bits of information on portable computing, along with many product reviews to the on-line community," reports Mankins. PALM TO PALM will be available on CompuServe's PALMTOP forum and America OnLine's PDA forum at first, with possibly more online services added later next year. Subscription prices for PORTABILITY! are $20 per year for 6 issues. TAKE IT WITH YOU is available for $20 per year for 26 bi-weekly issues. PALM TO PALM is free, with no surcharges (except for connect charges during downloading. Check with the online service for more information on connect charges. For information on how to subscribe to any of the publications, contact: Perfection Applied P.O. Box 1783 Orem, UT 84059-1783 For further information, call (801)222-0120 or fax (801)226-UFAX (8329). Perfection Applied is a privately-held company based in Orem UT and specializes in publications covering specialized topics, client management and consulting. __________________________________________ > LEXICOR NEWS! STR InfoFile """""""""""""""""""""""""" Lexicor seems to continue to be one of very few Atari developers making the news lately with new software and hardware announcements. Including more information about their recently announced Atari clone, the Medusa, here are a few interesting tidbits: LEXICOR SOFTWARE CORPORATION ============================ We are pleased to announce the exclusive Distributorship of Digital Arts Products in the U.S.A. and Canada. The Products concerned are Da's Vector, Da's Vector Pro and Da's Picture. Da's Vector is a powerful Vector and Animation Program for 189 U$D. Da's Vector Pro is the professional version which includes building and playing from Animation Files and frames from secondary sources eg. Phoenix or Chronos created Animations. Price is: 299 U$D. Da's Picture is a powerful animation package that has incredible animation features and will retail for around 199 U$D. All products are available now! Yat@Lexicor Small announcement: LEXICOR SOFTWARE CORPORATION is back on Genie in the Graphics Area m1415;1 (at Graphics) in Topic 22 and we have our own area and our own Library 21. MEDUSA T40 ========== The first 68040 Based Atari Clone, now available at LEXICOR SOFTWARE CORP. These are the specs of the New MEDUSA (price unchanged). You may post this wherever you like. MEDUSA T40 MC 68040 at 64 Mhz Internal FPU and PMMU Performance is around 26 MIPS, 4.5 MFLOPS. Main bus is: 32 Bit Data, 32 Bit Address Bus Clocked at 32 Mhz Full Bus snooping read and write. Atari bus is: 16 bit Data, 24 bit Address Bus snooping, write Own ACSI Address for full 32 Bit Address. Fast RAM Can hold 8-128 Megabytes on board Write 73 Mbyte/sec Read 85 Mbyte/sec. EPROM is 2 MByte on board 32 Bit Wide. TOS 3.06 modified slightly. - ST I/O Board. -DMA -MIDI -SERIAL -PRINTER -KEYBOARD -FLOPPY DD, HD, ED -2 SERIAL PORTS (like TT Modem) (upto 115KBaud) -IDE Bus (12 Mb/sec) -ISA Bus (for own custom Graphics Board). (This ISA Bus will work with any ET-4000 Based Graphics Board on PC Platform with the NVDI ET-4000, however NVDI ET-4000 only supports upto max. 32,000 colors as of this date). Additionally you can get: -VME Bus VME Bus 16bit Laser Printer Port (?) ROM-Port Mega Bus -SCSI Board TT SCSI SCSI II TT Lan -DSP Board DSP96002 and an MC68060 Board is scheduled for the year 1994. LEXICOR SOFTWARE CORPORATION (510) 848-7621 - (510) 848-7613 Here's a price breakdown in United States Dollars, users in North America will have the main parts assembled in the U.S.A. as parts are a lot cheaper here. The MEDUSA T40 is ideal for the high-end Atari User. Based around TOS 3.06, it is very compatible. Following this message will be a short list of working programs. - Basic Motherboard 68040/64 - Tower Housing - ST Input/Output Board Cost is: 2,490 U$D (Cost can vary depending on the exchange rate) Availability: NOW, Transport time should take no longer than 2 Weeks! Additionally you may purchase an ET-4000 Graphics Board 15/16bit Color onboard for about another 100 U$D + NVDI ET-4000. A VME Bus Multiple Bus Board (see description above) for another 400 U$D. 8, 16, 32, 64 or 128 Megabytes on board, price depending on SIMMS, current price is around 40 U$D per megabyte. IDE Internal Drive will cost depending on drive size. Internal IDE, no external casing required. NOVA VME 16M Graphics Board when purchased with VME Bus (for 24bit Color) costs 489 U$D. All prices given are Recommended Retail, shipping not included! Short Compatibility List: Chronos-3D Key frame Animator Phoenix U.S.A. (Xenomorph-3D) Prism Paint 1, 1.5, 2.0 ANM-Link (Relativity) Cybersculpt (in STHigh) Cyber Color ARTIS 4.0 XCONTROL Calamus SL Calamus 1.09N Platon V.2.21 Platine ST Skyplus DGRAPH GMAN Kobold Rufus Multigem MultiTOS SUperbase Phoenix 2 Interface Pure Pascal 1st Word PKS-Edit Seka Assembler Devpac Assembler Turboasss Assembler Easyride Assembler GAL-Prommer Logic A. GFA Basic 3.0 3.6TT Delicious Raystart Topaz VTX Uniterm Connect Iconedi Guck Invaders Piccolo Signum 3.0 Matrix Drivers 2.2 Snapshot Tele Office ACS Pro Argon Crypton Xenon V2.4TT Crazy Sounds PCB ST-Digital Profiler Pure C Cubase Emagic SED Turbo C Adimens Arabesque Chagall Technobox CAD and Drafter LDW Powercalc Papillion DAs Vector Didot Pro Didot Lineart Retousche Pro CD v.1.04 Papyrus Script 2.0, 3.0 ICD and AHDI Hushi STAD Compo Script Protar Manager Tempus Word and Editor ASpice and a lot more programs that follow the VDI and Atari guidelines should work with no problems whatsoever! I cannot make a list of ALL the working programs, but if you have an enquiry about a single product, then please email me, and we could look into it for you. Yat Siu Lexicor Software Europe Lexicor@world.std.com, XKY84999@genie.geis.com, 73073.142@compuserve.com, LEXICORWORLD@delphi.com ---------------------- We've heard some interesting comments about John Duckworth's first two columns. Please, send your comments directly to John as he'll really appreciate them. For me to dissect comments about the column from other comments included in the same message(s) really loses something in the re-transmission to John!! With that, let's test the waters and see how they're biting this week! > The Old Fishin' Hole STR Feature """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""" The Old Fishin' Hole ==================== -A Guide to the Online PD/Shareware Waters. by John R. Duckworth Howdy online anglers! Thanks for joining me as I present another edition of "The Old Fishin' Hole". With Christmas approaching fast, everyone's time is continually being stretched between shopping for the perfect present for that someone special, to making sure the outside light display is the best in the neighborhood. This week I hope that I can save you some online fishin' time by reviewing what I feel are two of the finest shareware packages to come out of the waters in a while. Both programs work on all Atari TOS computers, and utilize the advanced graphic capabilities of the TT and Falcon. "Gem-View v.3.01" by Dieter Fiebelkorn is the first of the two packages I'd like to rave about. Mr. Fiebelkorn has to be one of the most industrious programmers on the Atari shareware scene today, as there have been numerous updates to the "Gem-View" package in the past several months alone. On the simplest level, "Gem-View" is a picture file viewer. It recognizes and displays numerous Atari-specific and multi-platform formats including GIF, JPEG, GEM-image files, MS-Windows wallpaper, Targa, Kodak Photo-CD, MacPaint, Degas, and many others. "Gem-View" is fully GEM compliant (hence the name), as all it's display work is done within the confines of a picture's own window. One feature in which the program really excels is in converting pictures to other file formats. A user has the option to save in many different formats, for example, a GIF picture may be loaded and resaved as a GEM-image file. Some other save formats supported at present are GIF, .IFF, Targa, and TIFF. "Gem-View" also allows the user to manipulate pictures in several different ways such as horizontal and vertical flips, enlarging, and many dithering options. The author has now made the package modular in design, which makes adding more support for different file formats as well as dithering and manipulation options easier. The program will run as either a GEM application or desk accessory, and will run fine under MultiTOS (running under MultiTOS is actually recommended as the operating system no longer has limits on the amount of open windows like the normal desktop does). Since "Gem-View" is presented as shareware, there is a 14 day no-restriction trial period, after which the program must be registered. North American registrations are handled via Cybercube in Canada. Otherwise users may register directly with Mr. Fiebelkorn in Germany. I simply cannot give this package enough praise. Anyone that wants a professional graphics viewing, converting, and manipulating program (especially those with 256 color capability) should snag "Gem-View" as quickly as possibly. The second wonderful shareware package is "TOPAZ-Fraktal pro". While I am not a fractal expert, I will try to explain the package as simply as possibly. "TOPAZ-Fraktal pro" is a fully featured fractal display program and as with "Gem-View", does all of it's work within the confines of GEM windows. Fractals which can be displayed are Mandelbrot, Julia, Cosinus Hyperb., Legendre 4, Exponential, and Plasma. Areas of the drawn fractals may then be selected and zoomed-in to reveal the deeper intricacies of the pattern. Color sets may be loaded and applied to the displayed fractal patterns. These colors may then be cycled in one of three different ways to achieve sometimes beautiful and always interesting animations. The program also allows the user to set many options including the size of the drawn pattern and the number of colors to use to name a couple. I have only two minor complaints about "TOPAZ-Fraktal pro". First, the package is entirely in German, so it takes some time to figure out all of the program options. Second, the DSP should be utilized in the Falcon thus speeding up the display time needed for the fractals. "TOPAZ-Fraktal pro" is shareware, although I can't read German well enough to make out how much he requests (Perhaps someone will translate the docs soon). If you are even slightly interested in exploring fractals, "TOPAZ-Fraktal pro" is the program for you. Both of these programs should prove to be very useful and perhaps provide you with many hours of enjoyment. If you have the time, be sure to grab one...or both. Don't forget to send comments, suggestions, or Christmas greeting to JDUCKWORTH@delphi.com. Programmers...if you'd like me to provide a sneak preview of one of your PD/shareware programs send them UUEncoded to the same address. Adios! +----------------------------------------------------------------+ | Old Fishin Hole Tackle Box * | +----------------------------------------------------------------+ | Gem-View v.3.01 | | GEnie (Atari RT - #30950, #30955, #30956, #30957) | | Delphi (Atari Advantage- read GEM VIEW / read GEM-VIEW) | | TOPAZ-Fraktal pro | | Internet (ftp.uni-kl.de pub3/atari/graphics/tfrakpro.lzh)| +----------------------------------------------------------------+ * The Tackle Box is meant to provide assistance in finding files mentioned in the column. It should not be considered a COMPLETE listing and is provided for convenience only. Delphi Atari Advantage files should be found in the Recent Arrivals section of the database until moved to their appropriate sections. _______________________________________ > ORACLE for STALKER STR InfoFile """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""" For Release : 12-7-93 Contact : Paul Lefebvre (PLEFEBVRE) NEW AUTOMATION PROGRAM FOR DELPHI USERS (Atari ST/Ste/TT/Falcon030 compatible) Oracle for STalker 1.2 by Paul Lefebvre is a STalker BackTALK script that automates access to Delphi. This is the first such program for Delphi's Atari users. Oracle works with the Falcon030 and can perform its tasks in the background. Oracle allows Delphi users to cut their online costs because it automatically send/receives mail, send/receives forum messages, and downloads database files. Any mail or messages can be viewed offline and replies can be typed offline. To save Delphi users even more money, Oracle can be told to perform its tasks late at night to save on long distance charges. Oracle is fully compatible with Geneva and MultiTOS to allow all of its operations to be performed in a multitasking environment. Oracle is SHAREWARE. Registration includes the latest version of Oracle, the STalky 1.2 type ahead buffer for STalker, and free updates. Free support is always available on Delphi. System Requirements for Oracle are : an Atari ST/STe/TT/Falcon030 computer, and STalker 3 (STeno is recommended). Oracle for STalker 1.2 (Delphi version) is available for $15 (plus $2 shipping) from : Paul Lefebvre 78 Winter Street Portland, ME 04102 Version 1.2 is available in Delphi's Atari Advantage database in the telecommunications topic, under the name "ORACLE". Questions? Leave email to PLEFEBVRE or leave a message in the Atari Advantage forum. ---------------- Well, we've taken up more space than normal this week so let's wrap things up. With the holiday season upon us, so are the usual holiday parties and get-togethers. PLEASE, if you're going to party and drinking is part of the merriment, do NOT drive. This is a time for celebration, not bereavement. We at STReport want to have you around for many more years to come!! Until next time..... -Dana ______________________________________________________ > ONLINE WEEKLY STReport OnLine The wires are a hummin'! """"""""""""""""""""""""""""" PEOPLE... ARE TALKING ===================== On CompuServe ------------- compiled by Joe Mirando 73637,2262 Hidi ho good neighbors and neighborettes. Well, the Christmas season upon us (like you need me to tell you that, right?). At any rate, the "season of giving" is quickly approaching. While there hasn't been any snow in my neck of the woods, the temperature leaves no doubt that that jolly old man will soon be crawling down the chimney with bags of goodies for most of us... and coal for others. Gee, maybe I should get myself a coal burning stove! (;^{> On another note, the shuttle ENDEAVOR has completed the repairs of the Hubble Space Telescope. Everything about the mission to date has been top-notch. I, as an astronomy buff, can't wait to see "first light" (the first image from a new telescope). I have a special interest and pride in the Hubble because the company that I work for supplied material to several of the companies that supplied the components that make up Hubble. I happened to overhear someone complain that all of the spacewalks took place while the shuttle was on the Earth's night side. While that meant that the "action" was going on while we all slept, it was necessary to preserve the telescope itself. You see, exposing Hubble's mirror to light of the intensity that daylight would provide would in effect burn the aluminum coating off of the mirror. Even pointing it at Earth or the Moon would seriously degrade it (that's why you won't see a Hubble-eye-view of Earth). Aluminum was used instead of silver because silver absorbs infra-red radiation. The aluminum coating allows infra-red pictures of objects as well as images in the visible-light spectrum. See? I told you that I was an astronomy buff. Well, as Dan Quayle said: A mind is a terrible thing... Okay, enough of Science 101. Let's get to the reason for this column: All the great news and tips available every week on CompuServe... From the Atari Productivity Forum ================================= Sysop Bob Retelle tells us about accessing the Internet with your ST: "Using the KA9Q package we have in the software libraries here, you can, if you can find an access point that allows it, essentially turn your ST into an Internet node with its own temporary IP address. Then you can telnet and ftp *directly* from your ST, without having to first log into a local host computer. Now that my ST is back to life (or actually a "new" STe in its place), I can get back into direct Internetting with KA9Q... while it's been dead, I've been having to go through Portal as my "local host".. (local by virtue of being on PC Pursuit). Unfortunately KA9Q is rather crude (it emulates the interface of the local host.. not the most friendly environment in the world). Having telnet and ftp for a telecommunications program like Flash would make a world of difference in the enjoyability of using Internet..! I've even heard about "graphical front end" programs for Internet that are being developed... something like CIM for UseNet.." Lee Zion tells Bob: " "Hmm", so my ST can act as a host on Internet with its own IP with the right software. Your response reminds me why we keep signing on. We learn something new all the time! Those of us who use Milnet have a different solution to the problem of no local host access. Milnet hosts usually have a modem access port that provides Telnet access to our home host without having to have Telnet resident on our computers or having to be a registered user of the local host. We are provided a Milnet ID and password that work anywhere and just provide our home IP address as a part of the logon procedure. If we aren't near a Milnet host, we have an 800 number for an alternate access point that works the same way. Milnet of course is a "standardized" subset of Internet. Any organization can provide a universal access system when they "own" all the hosts. The downside is access to the rest of Internet. We can access our home host from outside Milnet via Internet but are usually blocked from going the other way." Bob tells Lee: "That sounds pretty interesting..! Having an available gateway into the network like that would be great.. if only you could access everything from there. It seems that everyone is jumping on the Internet bandwagon these days.. there's at least one local BBS that's getting pretty seriously connected.. I may be able to drop my long-distance connection to Portal and use the local gateway soon..!" Roger Manke asks: "Can anyone give me advice about building my own hard drive for my ST. I have a 1040ST and a MEGA ST2. What cables/interface? Are IDE drives better than SCSI, etc. I am on limited funds but have electronic background but not with ATARI hardware." Albert Dayes of Atari Explorer Online Magazine tells Roger: "You will have to stick with SCSI drives for now. No one has made a hard disk controller/host adapter for the ST. You will need an ICD interface/host adapter which should run you close to $110. Maybe less depending on where you get it from. The price of the SCSI hard drive, power supply, and case. Oops (above I ment that no one has made an IDE host adapter for the ST). You might still call an Atari dealer and see how much the price for completed one will cost. Just to be on the safe side of hardware pricing." Chris Gray adds: "There is an IDE adaptor for STs...it's an optional extra to the TOS2.06 adapter made by Hard&Soft in Germany. I believe that to use the IDE bit you need to solder one wire to your CPU (shudder). Only quoting product reviews, no 1st-hand experience... but this "no IDE on ST's" line needs to be corrected. What the hell, IDE is even more brain-dead than AHDI..." Sysop Bob Retelle tells Roger: "Just to add a little... an Atari hard drive system needs these parts: A cable from the DMA port on the ST to the host adapter card. A "host adapter card" to convert from "ASCI" to "SCSI" A standard SCSI cable from the host adapter to the SCSI hard drive. A standard SCSI hard drive. A power supply and enclosure for everything. Usually the first cable will come with the host adapter. A good inexpensive solution for the power supply and enclosure is to pick up a standard IBM clone case. It'll have space for the drive and host adapter board, and the power supply plugs are a standard connector style. I think ICD is the only company still making host adapters for the Atari line of computers.. they have several different models, depending on what devices you want to connect, and the space you have available." Tom Hurlebaus tells us: "I recently acquired an ATARI 520ST. My main purpose was to upgrade my MIDI musical system from a Commodore 64. I've realized however, that this ATARI may provide more. I have two initial problems, first, I did not receive a Monitor or Monitor Cord with my system and second I did not receive a TOS System Disk. I do have my Commodore 1702 Monitor, but I think this is only a 40 column Monitor ?? My guess is that I will need to buy a Monitor. If I do buy one, and I'll probably be looking at used monochrome, what about the Monitor Cable ?? I seen the display thru a television and I don't think I can live with that. Assuming I can get this working, I would appreciate any suggestions regarding Software. I probably will be looking for software for communications, word processing and utilities." Bob Retelle tells Tom: "Welcome to the world of Atari, and the Atari Forums on CompuServe..! First, unless your 520ST is one of the very first machines released, it shouldn't need a boot disk... the first STs released did not have TOS in ROM, but most of those were later upgraded. If yours IS one of the ones that don't have TOS in ROM, I'd *strongly* recommend adding the ROMs. Not only is a great deal more convenient not having to boot from a floppy every time you use the machine, but the newer versions of TOS are a lot better. You can obtain the ROM sets from Atari dealers, or you might consider adding a TEC expansion module which allows your ST to use the very newest version of TOS. Further info about the TEC board is available in the CodeHead Technologies section of the ATARIVENDOR Forum. Next, you'll need to use an Atari monitor with the ST... the monochrome monitor uses a special 70hz refresh rate, and the color monitor is an analog RGB unit. (I understand you CAN use an Amiga monitor also). The monitor cable should come with the monitor itself (my monochrome monitor has the cable permanently attached). You're right that any serious work will require a monitor.. TV is ok for games, but higher resolution needs a monitor. Probably your best bet for finding a monitor would be to watch local BBSs for people selling their systems... if you have an Atari dealer near you, they might have new ones in stock too. Also, try posting a note here in the Atari forums asking if anyone has a monitor they'd like to sell... If you have any questions about your new system, or its software, let us know and we'll do our best to get you going..!" Peter Joseph adds his welcome: "First, welcome to the Atari forums! You've come to the best place for help and information about your new ST. Every so often there are people that sell some of their stuff here in Section 17. You may be able to pick up a used Atari SM124 monochrome monitor for well under $100. The monitors have the cable built in to them. If you've seen the display on a T.V. set then I assume that you have a frequency modulator in your ST. In which case wherever you bought the computer should have given you the proper modulator cable to use with it. If not you should be able to get one at Radio Shack. If your ST is in fact one with a modulator then it's one of the later 520's and I believe by then that they also had TOS in ROM. In which case you should be able to boot up without even using a disk. However, this will take quite a bit longer, so if you have a formatted disk stick it in the drive to boot up. I also assume you have a floppy drive, either internal or external. To help you better, tell us what else you have for hardware such as disk drives, printer, modem, etc. There's loads of softstuff in the libraries here if your telecom program supports downloading. Let's see, what else...oh yeah, Midi. Well you've got a great computer for Midi, although you may find 512k of RAM a little tight (or downright impossible) for some of the more powerful Midi programs. Did I miss anything? If so, there will be others along to help as well." From the Atari ST Arts Forum ============================ Frank Hermann tells us: "Merry Christmas,Happy New Year to you all!! I have an IBM, is there an IBM program which will either convert or simply allow view of Spectrum type graphics, or Degas types, or .TNY's-have tried file finder but can't seem, to find any, at least not for IBM, tho it seems one exists for the Atari!!" Bob Retelle tells Frank: "Try the IBM FF with a keyword of ATARI.. there should be at least one IBM utility in the IBM forums that will allow viewing of DEGAS format graphics files (which you can then capture into GIF format by using a screen grabber utility while the picture is displayed on the screen). As for Spectrum format, there's been a bit of discussion about that recently, but I don't remember the name of the program someone mentioned as being able to view them on an IBM. TNY pictures might be a problem also... they're really just DEGAS and NeoChrome pictures that have been compressed, but as far as I know there's no way to uncompress them on a PC. Truthfully though... a lot of the pictures that started out as Atari files have been converted into GIFs already... it's ironic, but a lot of times at PC computer shows, the VGA monitors doing slide shows will often be displaying Atari original pictures..! (I've even seen ads in Computer Shopper for monitors with Atari pictures on them.. :)" Jeff at Intersect Software tells Master Sysop Ron Luks: "[Since] you mentioned going to CES in January, I wanted to mention a few things that I have learned from the COMDEX shows. Rooms are always more expensive during the shows, by as much as 300%. The Fontier has very good rooms and the best Prime Rib I have eaten. Their room rates are very good also. The Mirage rooms are poor in quality and access is terrible. Snow and snow play areas are 40 min from Vegas (north). Really good ski areas are in Utah at Brian Head (3 hrs by car). There are hotel rooms and lodges at the top of the mountain. Best Casino is the Silver City, across from Circus Circus. One dollar tables and drinks are served often. Oh, It's also no-smoking. During shows and on weekends, hotel rates go up and one and two dollar tables disappear. During weekdays (depending on season) the Fontier hotel rates are as little as $25.00 a nite." Ron tells Jeff: "The rooms go up more than 300%. Rooms at the Frontier for CES are not $25 a night-- they are $145. Quite a jump. I've stayed at the Frontier at past shows. Its a nice hotel." Yat Siu of Lexicor Software posts: "LEXICOR SOFTWARE is proud to announce that it can make available to the Atari Community an Atari'040 Clone. The MEDUSA T40 is now available via LEXICOR SOFTWARE CORPORATION Planned for the summer of 94 is a MC68060 Board TOS is a slightly modified version of 3.06 The price for this setup is roughly 3,000 U$D without IDE Drive and without RAM. The System was originally constructed and designed in Switzerland by MEDUSA Systems. ps: Its screaming fast *grin*" Carl Barron tells Yat: "Very interesting... At 64Mhz it should be fast. <grin> Available today, next week, next year? <grin> Roughly $3000, hm... Not too shabby but I might have to wait a bit." Yat explains: "This is how it works. When you make the order then you need to expect around 6 weeks time from the day you ordered it. It needs to be shipped and fixed up in Switzerland. And then final assembly in the USA. It is already available....i.e. available today." Carl Barron muses: "Six weeks? That might be faster than atari's timetable. <grin>" Yat plays along a bit: "We don't plan to challenge Atari's Time Schedule *grin* I am still waiting to see the next batch of promised TT's....and I would also like to know for what price range? They are excellent machines...and they WOULD sell well if they were more readily available!!" Boris Molodyi posts: "Heh, it sounds interesting. How about compatibility?" Yat tells Boris: "It is very compatible...I've got the list of tested software here on paper, now I just got to find the time to type it all up and post it :) *grin* It's basically TOS 3.06, so that is very compatible...." Myles Cohen asks: "I am confused by the word "clone"... Is this a machine that will only work ATARI programs...or will it also do MSDOS and windows stuff too..." Yat tells Myles: "This Machine will ONLY work with Atari Stuff :) as it has TOS 3.06 :) built in, by saying Clone it is an Atari Clone (i.e. modified copy). IBM-CLONES are often referred to just as clones, but clones is not a term exclusive to IBM Compatible PC's :)" Myles tells Yat: "Too bad... I...and probably many others...would have snapped it up immediately...even at...to me...the advanced price of $2500... I guess this way it is just a superfast Atari...a little better than the TT30... Now if it could also work with the stuff on other platforms...that would be a great machine indeed... The Mac and IBM confluence is the wave of the future... It's just too bad that the Medusa hasn't joined Atari with the other two..." From the Atari Vendors Forum ============================ Ed Bauer asks about spiffing up his TT: "I have the TT030 with 4mb ram. I would like to add another 16MB ram, and get the Multitasking OS from ATARI. What steps could I take to do both things. I'd like to get some of the flavor of multitasking that Windows 3.1 gives me, but I expect the ATARI version to be more powerful and dependable and truer to multitasking concepts than Windows 3.1. I expect something more similar to OS/2.1 , Unix , et cetera." John Brenner echoes my own thoughts: "I think it might be wise of you too check out Gribnif's GENEVA. It is much more flexible than Multitos and is more compatible to boot. As for a history of developing software I would go with Gribnif over Atari any day." From the Palmtop Forum ====================== Rick Van Schiock tells us: "I would like to soon purchase an electronic organizer and would value your comments as I look to choose the best one (if any) for my needs. Please help. Currently, I use a manual appointment book (fits in suit pocket) in which I keep a To-Do list, appointments, daily reminders and itemized expenses that I later put into Quicken. I also enter maps or other drawings when necessary. I really like the ability to WRITE in it. Character recognition isn't necessary. I've been waiting for the technology to improve to the point that 1. it fits in a coat pocket 2. accepts written input for To-Do, expenses, etc. 3. boots up almost immediately 4. able to maintain my Info-Select database files 5. costs about $500. I'm looking at the latest Wizard Series, but it seems it only takes written input for drawing, everything else is keyboard. Am I still hopelessly dreaming or is there something out now (or that soon will be available) that you know would be what I'm looking for? Thanks so much for your assistance." Ken Ducey tells Ken: "If you don't like typing, there are really on two other choices, the Casio/Tandy Zoomer sold through Radio Shack and the Apple/Sharp Newton. Both are represented in sections of this forum that you might want to peruse. They are a little more than your budget though." Well folks, that's about it for this week. Tune in again next week (same time, same station), kick back, relax among friends and listen to what they are saying when... PEOPLE ARE TALKING ______________________________ > STReport CONFIDENTIAL "Rumors Tidbits Predictions Observations Tips" """"""""""""""""""""" - Orem, UT Word Perfect has new PREZ! """""""" Word Perfect Corp. has a new president. Ad Reitveld has been appointed as their new president. Word Perfect a leader in the industry, continues to set the examples by which all others are measured. WP Customer Support continues to win compliments from all circles. - New York City, NY $2.00 Switch to Topple Atari Hopes? ----------------- JAGUAR VIDEO OUTPUT POOR Atari's "Firemen" are frantic in the two test market regions trying to keep the Jaguars alive and well. It seems there's a "cheap" RF switch that's simply, "not doing the job". Reports are filtering in that there are no display setups because of the extremely poor video output quality of the Jaguar. "The output quality is made perfect when one uses a competitor's rf switch and cable assembly". said an dejected observer. Another observer, who requested that he remain un-named, expressed sincere desires to see the new product be the success it was predicted to be but also stated Atari appears to be the "cat" that can't seem to change its spots. He said; "every new product they've released since the 520st has been bungled by them in one way or another". 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