Z*Net: 7-Nov-91 #9147
From: Bruce D. Nelson (aj434@cleveland.Freenet.Edu)
Date: 11/12/91-06:16:12 PM Z
From: aj434@cleveland.Freenet.Edu (Bruce D. Nelson)
Subject: Z*Net: 7-Nov-91 #9147
Date: Tue Nov 12 18:16:12 1991
| (((((((( | Z*Net International Atari Online Magazine
| (( | -----------------------------------------
| (( | November 7, 1991 Issue #91-47
| (( | -----------------------------------------
| (((((((( | Copyright (c)1991, Rovac Industries, Inc.
| | Post Office Box 59, Middlesex, NJ 08846
| (( |
| (((((( | CONTENTS
| (( |
| | * The Editors Desk............................Ron Kovacs
| ((( (( | * Atari News Update......................Terry Schreiber
| (((( (( | * Z*Net Newswire........................................
| (( (( (( | * Universal Network System.................Press Release
| (( (((( | * Chicago ComputerFest By Atari - Update...Press Release
| (( ((( | * AtariUser October Resource............................
| | * Z*Net Software Shelf....................Ron Berinstein
| ((((((( | * Z*Net Misc............................................
| (( | * ......................................................
| ((((( |
| (( |
| ((((((( | ~ Publisher/Editor............................Ron Kovacs
| | ~ Editor.......................................John Nagy
| (((((((( | ~ New Zealand Bureau..........................Jon Clarke
| (( | ~ Canadian Bureau........................Terry Schreiber
| (( | ~ PD Software Reviewer....................Ron Berinstein
| (( | ~ Reporter................................Dr. Paul Keith
| (( | ~ Contributing Editor.....................Bruce Hansford
=======================================================================
THE EDITORS DESK
----------------
by Ron Kovacs
=======================================================================
Apologies are in order for the late release of this week's edition.
Yesterday I injured my back while moving LOTS of heavy things. Being
the devoted mate that she is, my wife procured some back-pain medication
which WORKED miracles for me. However, not knowing the effects, I
started the final edit of the issue and was overcome with the need to
sleep and did just that for 12 hours straight! I feel great now, but
behind in a few things now.
In other developements, the Chicago ComputerFest by Atari is just
around the corner, and if you are planning to go to this event, please
make you plans NOW. The full update appears in this edition with a
complete seminar listing.
CompuServe users should be aware of the new software put in place
recently. Z*Net issues were originally available in a NEW UPLOADS
library, but now can be found in the News and Reviews Library #15 in
the Atariarts Forum. The new software allows you to LIST ALL the files
in ALL the libraries without having to switch to other libraries
manually. The new software vastly improves the ability to locate NEW
files quickly.
On GEnie, ST Alladin, the GENie telecommunications program which calls
and collects NEW messages and files and allows the user to read and
flag files while offline turns one year old this month. There are a
mumber of special offers going on NOW in the Alladin Roundtable. If you
are an Alladin user, take a few minutes out and check out what is
available.
In two weeks, the 1991 Z*Net Online Survey will be included in Issue #
91-49. Please participate and pass it around. Stay tuned for more
details.
Lastly, in between issues of Z*Net Atari Online, read Z*Net PC Online
Magazine. This NEW publication is currently at Issue #18 and contains
the latest PC community news and information and tons of exclusive
material NOT available anywhere else. ZPC was the first publication to
bring COMDEX coverage and pictures. ZPC is released every-two weeks or
bi-weekly and will go to a weekly format in January 1992. ZPC is
available on the Z*NET USA BBS (908) 968-8148, America On-Line,
CompuServe and soon to be a regular upload to GEnie.
Thanks for reading!
=======================================================================
* ATARI NEWS UPDATE
=======================================================================
Atari Canada this week announced new TOS chips will soon be available
for the MEGA STe, ST/STe* product line. Atari Canada's Rob McGowan
stated that there was no hidden DOS system or plans to incorporate it at
this time but the reason for the update was to fix some of the bugs
still left in the earlier releases such as flow control and delayed
boots.
Features:
* Atari ICON (Fuji) displayed at Boot.
* System memory check after a cold boot, pressing any key aborts test to
reduce attendant delay.
* A shrinking bar is displayed at boot, during hard disk intialization,
pressing any key aborts process and attendant delay.
* Pressing the Control key at boot bypasses autofolder preventing the
loading of .ACC, NEWDESK.INF and Deskicon.rsc files.
* Holding down the ALT key and typing a decimal number on the numeric
keypad inserts an ASCII code character into the keyboard buffer.
* Media Change detection on floppies works better, uses FAT checksums,
MS DOS 4.X serial numbers and many other features permitting superior
detection when a floppy has been changed.
* Less floppy spin-up delay in systems with a hard drive.
* Vacant drives detected sooner with quicker time-outs.
* Floppies with only one FAT are supported to allow greater
compatiblility with some DOS disk formatters.
* Serial Port functionality improved.
* Some programs that use Timer-A will work better (compatability
improvement).
* Multiple AES events when scrolling are reduced.
NOTE: TOS 2.06 for ST or MEGA ST requires hardware adaption, Atari
(Canada) will shortly announce the process for users to upgrade. TOS
2.06 is available as an upgrade for STe computers.
- Terry Schreiber
=======================================================================
* Z*NET NEWSWIRE
=======================================================================
(Editors Note: Portions of this Newswire have been reprinted from Z*Net
PC Online Magazine.)
FREE PEN COMPUTING SEMINARS
GRiD Systems announced this week that it will conduct a series of free
seminars nationwide to introduce businesses and governmental agencies to
the benefits of pen computers. During the next six months, GRiD will
offer monthly seminars at its 45 GRiD Systems Centers located in the
US and Canada. Attendees will get an overview of pen computing
technology and examples of how GRiD users are currently increasing
productivity, sharpening their competitive edge and improving the way
they do business with GRiDPAD pen computers. Information about the
seminars can be obtained by calling (800) 222-GRID.
CIRRUS UNVEILS DATA FAX VOICE MODEM
Cirrus introduced the CL-MD1424 Intelligent Data/Fax/Voice Modem Device
Set, a new product that combines the capabilities of a fax machine,
modem and, for the first time, an answering machine into two integrated
circuits, each of which is about the size of a postage stamp. The
Communicator includes the capabilities of an answering machine, a 2,400
bps Hayes-compatible modem and a 14,400 bps Group 3 Fax receiver and
transmitter. The product can store and then reply voice messages either
through a standard telephone set or through the small speaker typically
found in a notebook computer. For additional information contact Cirrus
Logic, (510) 623-8300 extention 2239.
ACCLAIM ENTERS SEGA MARKET
Acclaim announced that it has reached an agreement in principle with
Sega, whereby Acclaim will market and distribute software for Sega's 16-
bit Genesis and portable Game Gear hardware systems. Acclaim's first
Sega products will be unveiled at the forthcoming January Consumer
Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
SEGA SUES ACCOLADE
Sega announced that it has filed a lawsuit against Accolade. The suit,
filed Oct. 31 in U.S. District Court in San Francisco, alleges that
Accolade has developed and currently distributes software products
compatible with the 16-bit Sega Genesis video game system which infringe
upon Sega's proprietary trademarks and dilute the value and goodwill
associated with such marks. Accolade has never been licensed by Sega to
produce software products compatible with any of Sega's home video game
systems, nor has Accolade ever been authorized to use any of Sega's
proprietary trademarks.
MANNESMANN TALLY SHIPS FIRST
Mannesmann Tally has announced shipping the first laser printer to
combine HP LaserJet III compatibility with Reduced Instruction Set
Computer (RISC) processing performance. The MT908 laser printer
provides all the advantages of PCL5 including 8 scalable LaserJet III
fonts, plus 14 resident bit-mapped fonts (two slots also support
standard HP font cartridges), and HPGL/2 for shading and filling of
fonts and graphics. List price of the MT908 is $1,995. For more
information call (206) 251-5653.
=======================================================================
* UNIVERSAL NETWORK SYSTEM Press Release
=======================================================================
The Universal NETwork System now works with MegaSTE and TTs.
Universal NETwork for the Atari ST, MegaST, MegaSTE and TT series of
computers is now shipping. Programmed by the same developers that
brought users Universal Item Selector, Universal NETwork (tm) is a
software solution to networking that works on all versions of Atari 16
and 32 bit computers. Universal NETwork enables the user to share hard
drives and printer devices between computers, while not disrupting
foreground tasks.
Universal NETwork is powerful: Users can choose whether to use multiple
or single hard drives and printers. An office can run from one large
hard drive or many. With Universal NETwork, everyone can be served from
a central location, or from distributed servers.
Universal NETwork is easy to use: Installation takes about 9 minutes and
can be done by the average user. The network is accessed with just a
click of the mouse. Users can use the network as though it was just
another drive on their computer. Access data, copy, move, rename and
delete files - even load programs - easily over the network.
Universal NETwork is flexible: Users can share a hard drive or printer
with other users. It can be set up as a peer-to-peer, or a central
server system; either way, it's easy to use. More than one network
hardware type may be used on a single computer, so any machine in the
network may act as a bridge between different network hardware types.
The network can grow as your needs grow.
Universal NETwork is compatible: Universal NETwork is compatible with
every version of TOS and with current hard drive adaptors, drives, most
commercial software, and network devices. Users will need hardware
devices dependent on their equipment. Lantech Devices (by another
manufacturer) and SGSnet Devices (also by another manufacturer) are
compatible with Universal NETwork software. If users need network
devices, A&D Software can supply either MIDInet or LANnet devices. Both
devices use RJ11 modular plug phone wire and installation is simple.
Universal NETwork is expandable. Expand the network with the addition of
single node software and hardware. Users can upgrade to faster devices
when they become available (trade ins honored) and still use the
original software. Users might start out with a MIDInet system, and
then upgrade to a faster hardware device. Universal NETwork can be
configured to work with all new devices. R&D on hi-speed devices is
ongoing.
Universal NETwork has been shipping since April 1991. The package
includes all necessary software and easy instructions for installation.
Advanced users will enjoy the MacroDrive program for creating innovative
ways to allow non-HD nodes to act as though they had hard drives
connected directly. "Background File Transfer", is an accessory that
provides automated copying of large files while the user continues to
work in the foreground.
Universal NETwork software is $219 for a 2 node starter set and $95 per
node for additional software. Hardware costs will depend on user
choices. The Software works with all versions of TOS and all 16 & 32
bit computers manufactured by Atari. Additional node software is
required for each extra node in the network.
Hardware Devices available from A&D Software include MIDInet Devices
($30 each) that work on all versions of ST, STE and TT computers, and
LANnet Devices ($40 each) that work with the LAN ports of the newer Mega
STEs and TT computers.
Universal NETwork will work on a 520ST, but one meg RAM is recommended.
Supports Color, Monochrome or Moniterm monitors.
Volume discounts available and dealer inquiries invited.
Contact A&D Software, 280 Peach Street, Merlin, OR 97532 or Support
(503) 476-0071 or orders 1-800-800-2563.
=======================================================================
* CHICAGO COMPUTERFEST BY ATARI - UPDATE
=======================================================================
We have added several new exhibitors to Chicago ComputerFest - we now
have only 3 main floor booths remaining, if you have an interest in
attending as an exhibitor, please contact us immediately.
Our star-studded line-up so far:
Main Floor
----------
ABCO Kaleita Art
Apple Annie Mainstream America
Application and Design Software Mars Merchandising
ASTMUM Montreal User Group MaxWell CPU
Atari Corp. Megatype
Atari Entertainment Michtron
Atari Explorer Micro Creations
Atari Interface Magazine Migraph
BEST Electronics Missionware
Branch Always Software M-S Designs
Clear Thinking One Stop
CodeHead Software Oregon Research Associates
CompuSeller West Phil Comeau Software
CSA Ltd. Rimik
C-Lab Rising STar Computers
Double Click Software Roland Corp.
D.A. Brumleve SKware-One
Electronic Spinster Graphics Soft Logik
eSTeem ST Informer
Gribnif Step Ahead
Guitar Plus Sudden, Inc.
Hybrid Arts Toad Computers
ICD WizWorks!
ISD Marketing Wuztek/OPI
JMG Software Zubair Interfaces
8-bit Area
----------
Atari Game Developers Arena LJK
Computer Software Services (CSS) Mars Merchandising
Dataque Newell Industries
ICD Palette Imaging
K.O. Distributors RACC (Rockford User Group- Demos)
LCACE ReeveSoft
Atari corporation and ICD have promised that a VAST amount of 8-bit
hardware and software will be available from them in the 8-bit area.
This show may be the last chance for 8-bit users to obtain some of these
items - don't be left out!
Atari Entertainment has promised a special gift "while they last" for
Chicago ComputerFest by Atari attendees. I have promised not to give
specifics about what will be given away, but it will certainly be worth
your while to be in line early Saturday to get in the door!
You may collect your gift on the main floor where we have the door prize
drop box.
Our seminar schedule is one of the most comprehensive ever to be
assembled for an Atari-related event. There will be something for
everyone both days! For a tentative listing of seminars, please see the
end of this update for the full schedule.
Advance ticket orders for the show banquet must be received by Nov 14th;
please call the show hotline or mail your requests in NOW!
GEnie is the official source for Chicago ComputerFest by Atari
information, please stop by the ST Roundtable, Category 11 (Shows) Topic
10 (Chicago ComputerFest by Atari) for the latest in information, and
show specials by our exhibitors.
Our "hands on" training seminars have been finalized, please see the
seminar schedule at the end of this update for the times and subjects -
each session requires advance registration and a $15 "materials fee".
Contact us now to make reservations.
The Ramada Hotel O'Hare is holding our reserved block of rooms for the
show until November 10th. If you need rooms, please call the Ramada
directly at 708-827-5131 and ask for the reservations desk - be sure to
mention that you want the Atari Corporation rate and ask for a written
confirmation. Those of you who have already reserved rooms, and have
not received a written confirmation, please request one to assure that
you are getting the Atari-negotiated rates.
Seminar Schedule (Tentative- Subject to change)
D-1 room (seating- 90) Saturday November 23
12:00 Noon Clear Thinking- Ed Hak, Metapsycology
1:00 PM Aladdin PC/GEnie/HUGS meeting with Juan Jimenez, On-Line
Demo / TnT / Prizes for attendees.
2:00 PM Sudden, Inc- Sudden View.
3:00 PM Missionware- FLASH II. On-Line Demo
4:00 PM Aladdin ST/GEnie with Tim Purves. On-Line Demo / TnT
Sunday November 24
11:00 AM Atari Inc.- Tech Topics/TOS.
12:00 Noon Double Click- Real Time Data Compression.
1:00 PM Aladdin ST/GEnie with Gordon Monnier. On-Line Demo / TnT
2:00 PM Atari Explorer- Atari Journalism with John Jainschigg.
3:00 PM Aladdin PC/GEnie with Juan Jimenez, On-Line Demo / TnT
4:00 PM ICD, Inc. HD/Mass storage tips.
D-2 room (seating- 90) Saturday November 23
11:30 AM D.A. Brumleve- Using Computers to Foster Creative Thinking
by Michael Marks.
12:30 PM Step Ahead- Tracker ST 3.0.
1:30 PM Codehead- Professional Graphics tools.
2:30 PM Rimik- Multi GEM Demonstration.
3:30 PM Electronic Spinster Graphics- Spinning graphics from bits.
Sunday November 24
11:30 AM Gribnif- Rick Flashman presents Arabesque Professional
12:30 PM SK-Ware One- Seruat Demo/TnT.
1:30 PM Step Ahead- Retouche Pro CD.
2:30 PM eSTeem, Inc- eSTeem PILOT Authoring Language.
3:30 PM JMG Software- Hyper LINK.
D-3 room (seating- 90) Saturday November 23
11:00 AM Missionware- LottODDS.
12:00 Noon Dataque- Future of the 8-bit.
1:00 PM ReeveSoft- GUI on the 8-bit.
2:00 PM Atari Explorer- Magazine Production with John Jainschigg.
3:00 PM RACC- 8-bit Printer Codes in popular WP's.
4:00 PM Branch Always- GEMulator PC
Sunday November 24
11:00 AM Atari/Motorola- 680xx internals (Tentative)
12:00 Noon Atari Entertainment- Lynx Gaming tips and technique.
1:00 PM Dataque- T8/16 Q&A.
2:00 PM Application & Design Software- Universal NETwork.
3:00 PM Compuseller West- Do-it-yourself ST Repairs.
4:00 PM (TBD)
VIP room (seating- 75) MIDI Workshop Saturday November 23
12:00 Noon C-Lab- Productivity for the musical artist.
1:00 PM Roland Corporation- New Products.
2:00 PM Atari Corp- Atari ST's and the professional musician.
3:00 PM Hybrid Arts- Product Workshop
4:00 PM ASTMUM- MIDI Tips and Tricks.
Sunday November 24
12:00 Noon Hybrid Arts- "Hands On".
1:00 PM Guitar Plus- MIDI Jam session. (tentative)
3:00 PM Roland Corporation- New Products Demo.
4:00 PM C-Lab- Product seminar.
Salon I, II, III, IV (seating- 300) Saturday November 23
1:00 PM Atari Corp- "Atari Speaks"
3:00 PM Atari Entertainment Division- "New Games & Systems"
4:00 PM ABCO- "ST Report" by Ralph Mariano
6:45 PM Chicago ComputerFest Banquet
$25.00 per person- advance.
Main Speaker- Greg Pratt, President Atari U.S.
Sunday November 24
1:00 PM What's New From Atari
3:00 PM Guitar Plus- Beginning MIDI
Plaza III, IV (seating- 36, reservations required)
Saturday ($15 materials charge)
11:00 Introduction to Calamus with Mario Georgio
2:00 Introduction to PageStream with Dan Weiss
Sunday ($15 materials charge)
10:30 Advanced PageStream TnT with Dan Weiss
1:00 Advanced Calamus TnT with Mario Georgio
For more information or reservations:
Chicago ComputerFest by Atari
C/O LCACE
P.O. Box 8788
Waukegan, IL 60079-8788
708-566-0682 (Order and Show hotline)
Please Make Checks Payable to "Lake County Area Computer Enthusiasts"
We accept Master Card and Visa for all orders
GEmail- M.Brown56, L.Grauzas
Compuserve- 70416,144
America Online- SteveK7611
If you need to leave a message on the show hotline, please leave
complete information, credit card numbers, area codes, etc- thank you!
See you in the Windy City!
=======================================================================
* ATARIUSER OCTOBER RESOURCE
=======================================================================
The following article is reprinted in Z*Net by permission of AtariUser
magazine and Quill Publishing. It MAY NOT be further reprinted without
specific permission of Quill. AtariUser is a monthly Atari magazine,
available by subscription for $18 a year. For more information on
AtariUser, call 800-333-3567.
BUSINESS
Suffering the slings and arrows of both outrageous fortunes and PC
snobs, Atari products remain a competent choice for many "business"
applications. Here's a rundown of some of the currently available
titles in some of the traditional applications that make up today's
business computing environment.
These aren't the only packages that may be available, and we mean no
slight against any we have overlooked. A few titles may be hard to find
in some locations. Prices, where shown, are the manufacturer's
suggested retail, and in many cases the software may be available at a
discount. Contact an Atari dealer in your area, or call one of the many
retail or mail order dealers who advertise in AtariUser Magazine.
We're not focusing here on 8-bit, Portfolio or MIDI applications, as
they were featured in AtariUser in July, August, and September. Limited
quantities of those issues are available direct from AtariUser. Call
818-332-0372 for availability and pricing of back issues.
Word Processing
Word Perfect - $250.00: Long considered the leader in word processing
on any computer platform, Word Perfect for the Atari remains a
professional, powerful choice despite being version behind the PC (4.1
vs. 5.1). Efforts of users and Atari Corp to urge an update continue;
hundreds of letters were generated by AtariUser's suggestions in June
and July. More letters couldn't hurt! Word Perfect Corporation, 1555
North Technology Way, Orem, UT 84057
WordWriter - $79.95: Probably the most popular general purpose word
processor for the ST. Reasonably full featured and affordable, and very
easy to use. TimeWorks offers it but does not plan upgrades.
First Word Plus - $99.95: Very similar to WordWriter, but offering some
limited graphics import power. Generally considered superior to
WordWriter, but less well known. Produced by GST, the same group that
did WordWriter. Upgrades continue to come, current version is 3.14.
WriteOn - $149.95: New in the US from Compo of England, this one is
getting fresh attention for its DTP-like paragraph tagging and other
features. Another Compo word processor called That's Write may be even
more advanced, but is not widely available yet.
ProText - $99.95: From Michtron, ProText offers editing power but an
unfamiliar operation environment.
Document Processing
Wordflair, Wordflair II - $99.95, $149.95: Competent and versatile
combinations of some graphic layout power with adequate word processing
and even database and graphic functions make these good for forms and
compound documents. They don't approach DTP level of control, but most
people don't need it. Version II is more complete and recommended.
From Goldleaf.
Word Up - $99.95: Perhaps dead-ended at version 3, Word Up is a good
and fast word processor as well as offering fairly complete font and
graphic control. Some bugs hinder it, and the company has gone under.
Atari now owns the source code, but it is unknown what may happen next.
By Neocept, lots of copies are still in distribution, often discounted,
and many users swear by it.
Signum II - $199.95: Maximum typographic control, but at a cost of ease
of use. Imported.
Script - $79.95: A German import, Script has great response and good
layout and graphic power. Distributed by Megamax.
Charting and Graphing
A-Chart - $19.95: Although not dramatic, charts can be quite complex
and well-defined. As with any ANTIC Corp title, A-Chart is subject to
availability and should not be expected to be revised.
K-Graph 3 - $79.95: From the same authors as A-Chart, Kuma. Michtron
distributes in the USA.
Graph Maker - $59.95: A variety of chart formats and options, from
Artisan Software.
Data Bases
Data Manager, Data Manger Professional - $79,95, $99.95: "Flat file"
(non-relational) database systems that share the name but nothing else.
Good for straightforward data needs, including but not limited to mail
lists. Under the Timeworks label.
DBMAN - $295.00: A fully relational D-BASE compatible system that is as
much a programming language as a database. Suitable for development of
major stand-alone custom applications. Now in version 5.2 with a
compiler, from Versasoft.
EZ-Grade Teacher's Grade Book - $49.95: Student tracking and a variety
of grade weighting options.
Superbase Personal - $79.95, Superbase Personal 2 - $149.95, Superbase
Professional 3 - $349.95: A series of increasingly powerful database
systems that allow growth as needed. The cheapest is a flat (single)
file system, while the Professional system is a programming environment
with relational table control. By Precision Software.
Informer II - $89.95: Semi-relational control and customizing features
plus unique graphic display options make this one useful for middle-
range applications. By Soft-Aware.
Tracker ST - $79.95: Flat file database distinguished by considerable
report and printing format control. Step-Ahead Software.
Spreadsheets
LDW Power 2 - $179.95: Superior spreadsheeting, LDW Power has virtually
no commercial peers. Everything you could want in a LOTUS 1-2-3 clone,
plus GEM operation if desired! By LDW.
VIP Professional - $149: One of the original spreadsheets.
Point of Sale
Best Business Management - $295.00: Complete sales and inventory
system, will run reports, ordering, cash drawer, etc. From Best.
Cricit - $249.95: From Canada, Cricit uses GEM well for a complete
point-of-sale system. Inventory can use bar-coding for fast labeling
and data input of inventory. From Nice and Software.
Sales-Pro V.6 - up to $599.95 (modular): A popular p.o.s. system used
in many Atari dealers, with similar versions for the PC. Allows
networking and "kit" sales from inventory. By Hi-Tech Advisors.
Desktop Publishing
Calamus - $299.95: Version 1.09N is the only version available at press
time, with Calamus S and SL to come any week now. Remarkably complete
DTP with dazzling and fast output. Best WYSIWYG screen representation
of any DTP system. By DITEK, distributed in North America by ISD of
Canada.
Pagestream 2.1 - $299.95: Neck-and-neck with Calamus, Pagestream offers
great output but adds more types of fonts and unparalleled control of
layout plus Postscript compatibility. By Softlogik.
Timeworks Desktop Publisher ST - $129.95: The original DTP system for
the Atari, somewhat limited by today's standards but very versatile for
the price. Timeworks. A new version is completed (by GST) but is not
yet available or priced.
Fleet Street Publisher 2 - $149.95: From the UK, this DTP system is
substantially improved over the earlier versions that gave it a bad
name. Michtron was in no position to market it properly when it
graduated to an actually usable package. The new Michtron still carries
it, and cheaply.
Deskset II - $199.95: This professional typography layout system is
virtually unavailable, but was developed by Atari in-house for years.
While it is powerful, it is not favored by many users. Atari Corp.
Accounting and Finance
Payroll Master - $99.95: By Royal Software.
Personal Finance - $49.95: Michtron.
Phasar 4.0 - $89.95: Considered a professional level accounting and
finance system. From ANTIC, it is one of the few superior items that
may survive the close of Antic/STart.
ST Accounts 2 - $149.95: Another powerful and well-featured system for
business or personal accounting. From ISD, the Calamus people.
Architecture and CAD
Becker CAD - $395.00: A complete two-dimensional multi-layer drafting
program suitable for floor plans, blueprints, etc. Often discounted as
low as under $100. By Abacus.
DynaCADD - $995.00: Perhaps the premier 3-D drafting application on ANY
platform. Outstanding performance, even better on a TT. DynaCADD is by
ISD of Canada.
Master CAD - $99.95: Michtron imports this reasonably competent CAD
system.
Circuit Maker 2 - $149.95: Printed electronic circuit board layout.
From Musicode.
Construction Estimator - $39.95: Organizes and eases project pricing
estimation for all kinds of construction. From Micomm.
Critical Path - $59.95: Project planning, makes charts and plans the
best order of activities for construction, research, or any multi-
faceted project.
=======================================================================
* Z*NET SOFTWARE SHELF by Ron Berinstein
=======================================================================
Thank Goodness I am finally find out what those new file files are all
about! That's right! Another new version of, "What Is" is available
for downloading. Other revisions and upgrades too! The new LZH201,
another Freeze Dried Terminal, and even another CAL! Yes, this and more
in this issue of: The Software Shelf.
WHATIS49.LZH Another new version! WHATIS 4.9 recognizes 94 types of
files: ARCs, LHarcs, PRGs, pics, ACCs, animations, etc. Hence, no more
"what kind of file is this?" problems! Runs as a PRG or an ACC (just
rename the file) on any ST/TT in any rez. Short docs included in the
archive. All the features of earlier versions, plus now a filesize
display, MIDI format 0, 1, 2 files, and Master Tracks Pro .MTS files to
the list.
And after you finally find out what file you have, what you have decided
to type isn't on the keyboard! You scream, then you download Accent!
ACCENT.LZH ACCENT is an AUTO program that lets you type in any
character into any text field. Just press <ALT>, type the ASCII value
of the character you want (for ex, 189 for the Copyright symbol), let go
of the <ALT> key, and _voila_!
LZH_201H.LZH This archive (extractable with any! unlzh program) differs
from earlier programs only in that it supports extended comments in a
form compatible with the MS/DOS version of this protocol. Includes
PFXPACK, AFX (data file uncompactor), and of course LHARC.TTP. TT/030
compatible.
CAL_60.LZH is the latest revision of "CAL." Schedule events by date,
position, or every so many days. All new screens, more room to describe
each event, cyclic events, save/load/merge events, keyboard shortcuts,
auto conversion from previous versions, and much more! Includes new
Calshow to show upcoming events at boot, and full docs.
FZT_D204.LZH is the new demo of FreeZe Dried Software Terminal version
2.03. It is one of the better terminal programs available for the ST/TT
computers. Support for VT-52, ANSI, IGS, UBBS Term, ASCII. X/Y/Z-Modem
transfers. Auto-logs, Auto-macros, 45 number Auto-dialer, 40 macros,
full featured text editor, ARC/LZH/ZIP shell, full set of disk commands,
support for Flash (C) compatible .DO files, fast and intuitive graphical
interface, and much more. Now has better monochrome support... That was
needed! TT Compatible in ST Resolutions. 1MB required.
TLINK33.LZH TripLinK! version 3.3+, Menu support for ANSI/IG/ASCII/VT52
Built in Verbose for LZH/ZIP/ARC, Configurable Drop Down Menus,
Configurable Function Keys, built in Telecomm Mode, Great File handling
Support and Message Commands, Really nice sysop mode with online help.
The only BBS type program that has built in drop down menus, and access
to ACC's. File support for X/Y/Z Zbatch/Ybatch protocals. Takes 5 mins
to set up and get running. Easy To use but can get as complicated as
you want.
RAMDISK users unite! Well, at least pay attention to this:
SURECOPY.ARC is for folks that have TOS 1.4 or greater. It's a little
da/prg that will backup any new or modified files in your ramdisk
periodically. Small, efficient, effective, and easy to use. Freeware
from MIND over MIDI Productions.
And for those that just want to back up the whole darn thing!
JAMPACK4.LZH Much like Magic Shadow Archiver. Lets you pack entire
disks, or single files. Uses various compression techniques -- LZH,
LZW, ICE, V2. Shareware from Austrailia. A must have!
And for those who just don't want to see those files anymore!
SHREDR30.ARC is a major update to Shredr+, the file deletion utility
from DO NOT STAMP Software. Shredr+ ensures your privacy by
*permanently* deleting files from your disks. Too many features to list
here, but this version adds an all - new GEM interface, support for
MaxiFile III's "backdoor", and is over three times faster than the
previous version. Wow! Color/Mono supported. Fully functional
shareware.
Developers are working! Commercial releases in the US are starting to
become more exciting! Some are just being released and will effect the
way PD programmer's will behave, some are being improved with PD
additive files. Some are just being updated.
MPAINT1.TXT is a text file telling about MegaPaint. It is readable
online and tells about the new combination bit-map and vector graphics
powerhouse from CodeHead GT! With more features than you can shake a
stick at, and more than enough _serious_ speed_ to satisfy the most
hardened graphics addict, MegaPaint Professional is now the program that
all PD developers, and commercial developers are going to have to chase
after.
CARDPTCH.LZH CARDFILE users! This an archive that contains a program
which will allow registered users of CardFile version 3.01 to obtain
3.02. This new version fixes a few minor bugs (among them the "doubling
bug"). I must admit that Cardfile has become one of my most important
programs..
CF_CALPR.ARC More CARDFILE uses! This fully functional program will
print a nice monthly calendar of your CardFile appointments. You must
have the commercial CardFile program. It supports HP DeskJet and
LaserJet family printers only. "A must for CardFile owners," says the
description. Will work on a TT
SPROTAX.ARC SALES PRO users may use these two utilities to set the
global sales tax defaults for all three levels in their Customer and
Inventory files for the new Version 6.00 update. Sets the Taxable Y/N
flags in the old databases after Sales-Pro has automatically updated the
old version databases.
RULERS.LZH CALAMUS users.. Have you ever seen how the "Mac" DTP
programs offer an on-screen, on-page ruler that you can move around?
This file gives something like that ability to Calamus.
CALCAD3D.ARC This accessory will take the information found in Calamus
Fonts and make a template that can be extruded in CAD3D. The letters
that are formed can then be manipulated, rotated, twirled, and animated
using CAD3D. You need CAD3D to use this accessory. The program is
shareware, and has two fonts to play with. This was written to help
animators have more choices of letters and fonts than those that came
with the CAD-3D font disks.
U332PTCH.ARC UIS users... This patches UIS III version 3.3 to version
3.32. Will ONLY update version 3.3. Easy to use. Run it and when the
item selector appears, locate and click on the UIS 3.3 file. After it
updates UIS 3.3, it deletes itself!
P6E_HAWK.ARC AVANT VECTOR examples. This one is a Curtis P6 Hawk
Biplane in Calamus CVG format. An auto-trace by Avant-Vector. You need
Calamus to use this file!
MEGA_EPS.ARC and MEGA_CVG.ARC are examples of the incredible auto-
tracing results possible with Avant Vector from CodeHead Software. This
picture of an Atari Mega ST was originally in IMG format, and couldn't
be scaled or stretched without distortions and "jaggies." Avant Vector
converted it to a smooth, infinitely flexible vector graphic ... with
almost NO editing!
PLANE2AV.ARC Another Auto-Trace file by Avant Vector. Bf109 front and
side, Spitfire front in Calamus .CVG format. You must have Calamus,
Outline Art or a program that will load Calamus .CVG files
PLANE_AV.ARC This file contains 2 .CVG files of a P40 Warhawk and A6M2
"Zero". They were auto-traced with Avant Vector.
COCKPIT.LZH DYNACADD examples. This is a 2D DEF file of a Boeing 727
instrument panel. The drawing was created using DynaCADD. You must
have DynaCADD v2.0 or the 2.0 Demo to use this file.
And while on the subject of graphics!
IG216.ARC IG216 is a on-line graphics interpreter. It will do bit-map
graphics on-line music, even supports MIDI. It has bitblit for
animation too! This version soups up the & LOOP adds color rotation,
and ZONE loopback for mouse driven on-line BBS menus. Includes some
demo scripts and a few FoReM / Turbo BBS menu examples. This is a Desk
ACC and a EMU loadable protocal for Interlink terminal. The ACC can be
used with any term that has a GEM menu bar.
And Fractals Too!
FRACTAL.LZH Public-Domain and features a very fast algorithm to
calculate a fractal. It uses GEM Menu-Bars and multiple windows.
FERNPRNT.LZH This is another version of the author's fractal
manipulation program. In this version, you can send the image to the
printer. This is NOT a screen dump, but an actual printout at the
resolution of your printer. You will need a version of GDOS and the
GDOS printer driver for your printer.
Recently the new GNU files have interested several programmers. Here is
a collection of GNU files and others might be rightfully called our GNU
programmer's section.
GDB.LZH is the Atari port of the GNU source level debugger ver. 2.6,
patchlevel 14 by J. Bammi. This archive contains the sources, a main
page, and documentation in formatted ascii as well as texinfo forms, as
well as some captured newsgroup postings. The compiled executable is
included.
MAKEINFO.LZH is Michal Jaegermann's Atari port of the GNU utility which
produces 'info' files from 'texinfo' files without the use of GNUEMACS's
texinfo-format-buffer. Numerous output formating options. Now it is
very easy to quickly produce a nicely formatted ascii file(s) from
texinfo files for screen reading and printing to line printers.
GDM15.LZH These files produce the GNU Data Base Management System.
This Free Software Foundation offering is similar to unix dbm. Sources
for a utility which converts dbm files to GDMB format is included to
ease conversion.
PERL4_10.LZH An interpreted programming language written by Larry Wall
with commands which resembling and providing the functionality of awk,
sed, c-shell, and C.
COPILOT.ARC COPILOT is a runtime version of eSTeem PILOT. eSTeem PILOT
is an easy-to-learn, easy-to-use authoring language for creating
tutorials, drills, tests, interactive dialogs, games, simulations,
device control programs, and interactive laser videodisc multimedia.
COPILOT will run any PILOT module which contains a valid runtime code.
The program eSTeem PILOT, which is not shareware, is used to author
PILOT modules and compute each module's unique runtime code.
COPILOT.ARC contains COPILOT.PRG, it's support files and a folder
containing a number of PILOT modules which demonstrate the features of
the eSTeem PILOT language and aid new PILOT authors in creating their
own PILOT modules.
ED_HOOKS.ARC is for any programmer wishing to let users access EdHak
directly from their application (or ACC), such as if you need a text
editing function, but don't want to have to write one yourself just for
your app. EdHak can automatically exchange text (or other data) with
your program to make it appear to the user almost as if it is part of
your program. This file has all the needed programming details.
For those who want to make music their business!
NOISETRA.LZH This is the assembly source code for a Noisetracker
player.
AUTOEXC.LZH AUTOEXEC goes in your AUTO folder and will play a SEGM
file, a Noisetracker module converted using the apparently very hard to
find PD, NT_COMP program. It also has a script language built-in which
you can use to play the samples and re-order the programs in the AUTO
folder. The program works on all ST and TT machines, but the sample
playing feature only works on the STE, Mega STE, and TT, according to
the author.
BACKTRAK.LZH BackTrak plays Noisetracker MOD files in the background.
From the author of MODPLAY!, STEPLAY, The Ultimate Musical Experience,
and Esion.
JUKEBX11.LZH Jukebox version 1.1. Plays Noisetracker modules in the
background. Can be run as a desk accessory or program. This version
has a few more features than the previous. Better memory management
too.
Q_PLAY23.LZH QUARTET PLAYER 2. Now works in all resolution and on all
STs and STes. Includes the MISSION IMPOSSIBLE theme. Take a look at
QUARTET if you're interested in composing digitized music on your ST!
CK_MIDI.ARC will allow you to check for faulty MIDI cables, test MIDI
devices, display incoming MIDI commands, and identify MIDI File Formats
0, 1, and 2 with just one program. CK: MIDI! is the successor to MIDI
Test.
For those who just want to mediate...
FISHES.LZH Fishes is a Program for meditation. It will show you some
fishes swimming over your monitor. You can change the movement, size
etc. of the fishes interactively.
And, for those who want to play around!
ADDUP.LZH The objective of this game is to make totals of 15 using 3
consecutive blocks and avoid totals of 14. The game uses falling blocks
that you can move using keys on the keyboard. Make totals of 15 and the
blocks dissolve and fall increasing your score. Make totals of 14 and
you are blocked with Xs from further play. This program is an offshoot
of Collapse. Uses low res.
MAZEMAKR.LZH allows you to create your own mazes and print them out.
In three steps, you draw the shape of the maze, fill in any open blocks
you want filled, and select the start(s) and finish(es). Mazes can be
79 columns wide and about four and a half pages long on a standard
printer. Very large and detailed mazes can be constructed in seconds.
All you need is a printer, a pencil, and a liking for puzzles. This is
an initial version.
REV_DEMO.ARC is a FULL FEATURED demo of the Registered Version of CPX
Reversi. It is a demo in the sense that it only allows a few complete
games to be played before it starts reminding you it's just the Demo
version. Better graphics, sound, "meaner," and, it keeps running stats
on wins, lost and draws. (c)1991 @ircular Logic. Must have ATARI's
XCONTROL to work.
And for those Star Gazers out there that like Music as well!
STINTRO.LZH This is the full theme song intro to Star Trek TNG. Even
at a 10K sample rate, it is huge! Needs 1 meg or better to play, but,
for the Star Trek fan, what is an extra meg or two? :)
BEFOREST.LZH Captain Picard in the Star Trek intro, " Where no man has
gone before". This is a loooong file, digitized with Replay4 at 10K.
MARSTEMP.LZH For you would-be terraformers, graph of Martian hourly
temperatures for different atmospheric densities and differant times of
year. Will not work on a TT. MONO only.
MARSMOON.LZH Like the other three planet and moon programs. This one
is of Mars and it's two eccentric moons Deimos and Phobos.
JUPMOONS.LZH Excellent (but German) graphical program showing the
Galilean moons of Jupiter orbiting Jupiter in three magnifications,
including shadows of the moon accross the face of Jupiter, mutual
eclipses, and emergences from Jupiter's shadow. Great for observing
Jupiter and its' moons! MONOCHROME ONLY! Program is in GERMAN. There
is a short explanation file in English. TT/030 compatible in ST High
Resolution using 24BIT.PRG only.
And these two files really don't fit anywhere else, but, I did want to
mention them... (So, I put them at the end!) <smile>
WAGECALC.LZH WAGECALC is a short program that will allow you to
calculate your gross wage by the hour, day, week, bi-weekly, monthly, 6
months, and yearly plans.
STACYMSE.ARC is an archive containing a desk accessory that simplifies
the use of the STacy's trak-ball. When the accessory is installed and
active, clicking the RIGHT track-ball button will pause the system to
think the LEFT track-ball button is being held down, allowing one-handed
"click and drag" operations to be performed. Clicking the RIGHT button
again will cause release.
Thanks for reading this week's edition.. see you next issue.
The above files were compiled by Ron Berinstein co-sysop CodeHead
Quarters BBS (213) 461-2095 from files that were either directly
uploaded to CodeHead Quarters BBS, or downloaded from GEnie, Compuserve,
and Delphi online services.
=======================================================================
* Z*NET MISC
=======================================================================
ANNIVERSARY CARD SIGNED BY THE PRESIDENT
Presidential Correspondence
Old Executive Office Building, Room 94
Washington, DC 20500 (202) 456-7639
50th wedding anniversary cards and 80th birthday cards signed by the
President are available to the public. The requests must be written and
should be received at least one month before the event. Photographs are
also available through a written request. Contact the office above.
AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS
Customer User Services
Earth Resources Observation System Data Center (EROS)
U.S. Geological Survey
Sioux Falls, SD 57198 (605) 594-6511
Aerial photographs are available from this center for most geographical
regions of the country. Prices range from $6 to $65, depending on
whether they are black and white or color photographs. Contact this
office for ordering information.
DIAL THE EXACT TIME: THE MASTER CLOCK
Atomic Clock
Naval Observatory
24th and Massachusetts Ave.
Washington, DC 20392-5100 (202) 653-1541
The Observatory's Master Clock is the source for all standard time in
the United States. For the correct time, call the number above, or dial
1-900-410-TIME if you are outside of the D.C. area.
FREE COUNTY EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
Executive Officer
County Cooperative Extension Service
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Room 340A Administration Building
Washington, DC 20250 (202) 447-4111
The USDA operates an extension program in 3,165 counties located in all
of the 50 states and the U.S. territories. Federal, state, and local
governments share in financing and conducting cooperative extension
educational programs to help farmers, processors, handlers, farm
families, communities, and consumers apply the results of food and
agricultural research. The Extension Service helps people develop
marketable job skills, make informed career decisions, and expand
available opportunities. It offers guidance to families such as ways to
manage finances and make sound financial decisions; confront and deal
with such problems as alcohol and drug abuse, teenage pregnancy, and
unemployment; and develop strategies for retirement. The extension
offers up-to-date information about the relationship of dietary
practices to lifestyle factors. Another major area is revitalizing
rural America: programs emphasize how to increase competitiveness and
efficiency of rural programs, explore methods to diversify local
economies and attract new business, adjust to impact of change, develop
ways to finance and deliver services, and train leaders to make sound
policy decisions for rural communities. It works with consumers,
producers and local government to learn more about the importance of
high-quality ground water and the conservation of water resources.
Emphasis is also put on the effects of agricultural chemicals and
contaminants on water quality. The extension is helping expand youth
outreach resources to meet the needs of youth, develop programs for the
most susceptible youth populations, provide leadership and job skills,
and increase training of professionals and volunteers to work in
communities to prevent and treat problems.
MOON AND PLANETS MAPS
Distribution Branch
U.S. Geological Survey
Building 810
Denver Federal Center, Box 25286
Denver, CO 80225 (800) USA-MAPS
The USGS established an astrogeology program on behalf of NASA to
support lunar and planetary exploration. Many maps of the Moon, Mars,
Venus, and Mercury are available.
SPACE PHOTOS
Customer Services
Earth Resources Observation System Data Center (EROS)
U.S. Geological Survey
Sioux Falls, SD 57198 (605) 594-6511
The EROS Data Center maintains photographs from many of the space
missions, including those of the space shuttle, Apollo, and Gemini.
Contact the center directly for information concerning specific topics.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
To sign up for GEnie service call (with modem) (800) 638-8369. Upon
connection type HHH and hit <return>. Wait for the U#= prompt and type
XJM11877,GEnie and hit <return>.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
To sign up for CompuServe service call (with phone) (800) 848-8199. Ask
for operator #198. You will be promptly sent a $15.00 free membership
kit.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Z*Net International Atari Online Magazine is a weekly publication
covering the Atari and related computer community. Material published
in this edition may be reprinted under the following terms only. All
articles must remain unedited and include the issue number and author at
the top of each article reprinted. Reprint permission granted, unless
otherwise noted, to registered Atari user groups and not for profit
publications. Opinions present herein are those of the individual
authors and does not necessarily reflect those of the staff. This
publication is not affiliated with the Atari Corporation. Z*Net, Z*Net
News Service, Z*Net International, Rovac, Z*Net Atari Online and Z*Net
Publishing are copyright (c)1985-1991, Syndicate Publishing, Rovac
Industries Incorporated, Post Office Box 59, Middlesex, New Jersey,
08846-0059, Voice: (908) 968-2024, BBS: (908) 968-8148. Registered FNET
Node 593. We can be reached on GEnie at Z-NET, on CompuServe at
75300,1642, on Delphi at ZNET and on America Online at ZNET1991.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Z*NET (International) Atari Online Magazine
Copyright (c)1991, Rovac Industries, Inc...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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