ST Report: 24-Jan-97 #1304
From: Bruce D. Nelson (aa789@cleveland.Freenet.Edu)
Date: 02/13/97-09:05:49 AM Z
From: aa789@cleveland.Freenet.Edu (Bruce D. Nelson)
Subject: ST Report: 24-Jan-97 #1304
Date: Thu Feb 13 09:05:49 1997
Silicon Times Report
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January 24, 1997 No.1304
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STReport's Tenth Anniversary 1987-1997
Florida Lotto - LottoMan v1.35
Results: 1/18/97: 3 of 6 numbers, no matches
>From the Editor's Desk...
1997 is our tenth year of operation. Seems like it was only yesterday
.when we began. Oh well on to today. In this issue, you'll find
references to telecommunications difficulties by Amercia Online and here,
in this missive, about local ISP access and routes from Jacksonville to
both Atlanta and Orlando. Folks, something is going on that's not
obviously clear to the powers that be. Hopefully, our opinions can shed
some light on the possibilities.
Let's take a quick look at where the "gold" is for the telephone
companies; Sprint, MCI, the baby Bells and AT&T for starters . Many would
quickly say the long distance toll calls to both businesses and private
users. They would be partially correct. Five years ago, that answer
would've been 100% correct. Today however, its in Commercial/Residential
"line leasing", "access leasing" and gateways to the Internet.
Now, we find the PHONE COMPANIES (The Carriers) in direct competition
with those they lease the lines and access to! One can only wonder why it
was. That recently in Jacksonville, the ISP's that were serviced by
Southern Bell went down and lost their Internet Access Routes for almost
the entire weekend but those ISP's who were using the lines leased to
Sprint or, AT&T's lines had no problem at all. Southern Bell's direct
lines experienced no problems either. The Uunet connections went totally
dead though. Sure, it is easy to blame UUNet and its even easier to blame
"some strange electronic anomaly" but please. stop and think about this.
Look at it this way.. AT&T is now an ISP (Internet Service Provider),
Southern Bell is now an ISP as well as MCI. Folks, in the USA, (perhaps
the world) these ARE the big telecommunications guns. Nobody seemingly
comes bigger. They are in direct competition with those they serve. Those
little ISP's are, by the way, obliged to use the services of the big guns.
Why is it the same problems were not being seen by all? After all,
they are reportedly all using the same "lines". Why is it America Online
is choking on the volume of Users accessing its service? Busy signals are
the song of the hour for endless hours. Yet AT&T is running clear as the
wind as are the other major ISP services. AOL IS an ISP first and an
"added value" ISP second. The BIG question is, should the Telcom Carriers
like AT&T, the Baby Bells, MCI, Sprint etc.. be allowed to be ISP providers
also?? In our opinion, this is highly monopolistic and definitely not in
the public interest. Sure, the big guys say AOL must BUY more equipment
and lease more lines from .WHO?? Their competition!! What's wrong with
this picture? It simply doesn't fit! The citizens of the USA must not be
made bill paying pawns in the battles for supremacy in the
telecommunications world. That's our opinion, what's yours?
If you or, anyone you know is able to shed more light on this matter,
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Ralph F. Mariano, Publisher - Editor
Dana P. Jacobson, Editor, Current Affairs
Section Editors
PC Section Mac Section Special Events Section
R.F. Mariano J. Deegan Lloyd E. Pulley
Gaming & Entertainment Kid's Computing Corner
Dana P. Jacobson Frank Sereno
STReport Staff Editors
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Michael R. Burkley Paul Guillot Joseph Mirando
Doyle Helms John Duckworth Jeff Coe
Victor Mariano Melanie Bell Jay Levy
Carl Prehn Alan Harkleroad Vincent P. O'Hara
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David H. Mann Angelo Marasco Donna Lines
Brian Boucher Glenwood Drake Vernon W.Smith
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LATE BREAKING INDUSTRY-WIDE NEWS
Weekly Happenings in the Computer World
Compiled by: Dana P. Jacobson
AOL Hit With Still More Lawsuits
Yet three more lawsuits have been brought against America Online -- these
filed in Detroit, Chicago and Seattle -- accusing the Virginia online
service of failing to meet customer needs. Like earlier suits filed in New
York and California, these class action suits accuse AOL of stirring up
demand by enticing subscribers with low-cost $19.95 unlimited usage,
resulting in an overload in network traffic, frequent busy signals and
network failures. They also allege AOL has failed to install an adequate
number of call-in servers. In Michigan, attorney Lionel Glancy,
representing AOL customer Mary Jo Miles, told United Press International,
"Customers are not getting what they paid for ... America Online actually
put 'America on hold.'"
Saying Miles, a Ph.D. candidate, subscribed to AOL to communicate through
the Internet with friends and family in the Detroit area, Glancy added,
"Based on published reports, America Online can provide online access to
approximately 3.5 percent of its subscribers at the same time. This means
that up to 96 percent of all subscribers sitting at their computers to use
AOL could be denied access to the system they paid for." UPI says the
Chicago suit filed by Shirley Stern and Brent Harzman said subscribers rely
heavily on truth in advertising and expect to receive the goods and
services they buy, while the Seattle suit accuses AOL of failing to provide
its customers with proper access to the Internet.
AT&T Credits Gains to AOL Woes
Thanks to America Online Inc.'s capacity problems, AT&T Corp. says it has
begun to see a rise in new subscribers its own WorldNet Internet service.
The Wall Street Journal reports this morning AT&T officials are saying the
service is experiencing three times the number of daily sign-ups in January
than in December.
"So AT&T began polling new users," says the paper, "and of the 1,094 people
asked between Jan. 12 and Jan. 19, 45 percent said they were also AOL
subscribers. Seventy-seven percent of that group, when expicitly asked
about AOL, said they were calling AT&T because they were dissatisfied with
the service."
Tom Evslin, who heads WorldNet, added, "A lot of the increase in orders
we're seeing is directly because of the publicity of AOL's problems.
People care a lot about the reliability of their Internet service. It's
become a serious part of their lives."
The Journal puts AT&T's subscriber numbers
at roughly 600,000 people.
Meanwhile, an AOL spokesman said, "Data suggest in general terms that
people are staying with AOL. Our member retention is within historical
norms." As reported, since the Dulles, Virginia, company went to flat-rate
pricing last month, heavy usage has clogged its phone lines, various
lawsuits seeking class-action status have been filed against the company
and users are circulating petitions complaining that they aren't receiving
the service they pay for. AOL has said it will scale back its marketing
efforts and put an additional $100 million into boosting network capacity.
WSJ Blasts Online Cancel Policy
The Wall Street Journal this morning blasted online service companies for
making it easy for the public to sign up as customers but sometimes quite
tricky to cancel. Companies flood mailboxes and magazines with diskettes
for "free trials," Journal reporter Jared Sandberg notes, "but once your
tryout time is up, your credit card is automatically billed monthly unless
you contact the service and explicitly cancel." And at the same time, he
writes, many "have erected a thicket of hurdles that make quitting
difficult."
For instance, says the paper, America Online "forbids canceling via
electronic mail; other companies allow it but sometimes fail to stop
billing you after you cancel. Some services, including Netcom On-line
Communications Services Inc., impose a deadline for cancellation but
explain it deep in lengthy contracts and then slap on extra monthly charges
if you miss the date. Most services will sign up new customers 24 hours a
day on toll-free lines, but sometimes require quittrs to call during
business hours at long-distance rates."
Those hurdles are drawing fire from some state officials, who recently
forced AOL to improve the disclosure of its charges following changes in
its pricing plan. Of AOL, Michael Hering, assistant attorney general in
Massachusetts, told the paper, "You cannot cancel online. You cannot mail
them a letter because there's no address on the disk, and there is no 800
number dedicated to cancellation." He added some customers he talked to
had such a hard time bailing out that they resort to canceling their credit
cards.
The Journal says AOL last February began allowing all customers to quit the
service by e-mail, but had killed the option by June. "We found that our
cancellation rate was going up considerably," AOL Vice President Raymond J.
Oglethorpe of member services told Sandberg. "We felt that if we went back
to our previous way, we would at least have the opportunity to talk to the
member." Now users there must cancel by phone, "giving AOL staff members a
chance to offer incentives for sticking around," Sandberg observes.
Meanwhile, at services like CompuServe that do allow for membership
cancellation by electronic mail, different problems arise, sometimes
exacerbated by the customers themselves. For instance, says David
Lajoudice, billing manager for the SpryNet unit of CompuServe, some
customers cancel their accounts without providing adequate information,
quitting, say, via e-mail sent from another service without providing a
full name and billing address. "Then we don't know even who this person
is."
Justice Readies 'Decency' Fight
U.S. Justice Department officials have told the Supreme Court they will
argue a federal law restricting "indecent" communications on the Internet
doesn't violate the First Amendment because "parents and their children"
have a right to the Net too. The Supreme Court will hear argument March 19
in an appeal of rulings by three-judge federal panels in Philadelphia and
New York that last year declared parts of the Communications Decency Act
unconstitutional, saying they violated the free speech of Internet users
who may want to send sexual material to other adults.
Reporter Michael Kirkland of United Press International notes the Justice
Department has filed its "merit" brief -- in effect, a look at the
arguments it will use before the justices -- on the last day possible under
a Supreme Court deadline. UPI quotes the brief as saying, "Parents and
their children have a First Amendment right to receive information and
acquire knowledge... Much of the Internet's potential as an educational and
informational resource will be wasted, however, if people are unwilling to
avail themselves of its benefits because they do not want their children
harmed by exposure to patently offensive sexually explicit material." It
also cited Supreme Court precedents that have allowed federal, state and
local governments to restrict sexual material in print and broadcasting.
Spurned By Apple, Be Goes Alone
Failing to woo Apple Computer Inc. into buying it, high- profile Be Inc.
is reverting to its previous game plan, says Chairman/CEO Jean-Louis
Gassee, a former top Apple executive. As reported earlier, Apple last month
announced a $400 million deal to buy NeXT Software, ending speculation the
computer maker would acquire Be Inc. to update its aging Macintosh
operating system.
In an evening keynote presentation at the Upside Technology Summit in La
Quinta, Calif., Gassee commented, "I certainly appreciate the exposure
they've given us -- without them we wouldn't be here tonight." The Reuter
News Service says Be executives demonstrated their system's ability to
perform multiple video graphics-intensive tasks on a PowerPC based computer
using four microprocessors.
Gassee also said Apple's choice of NeXT was understandable in that his
startup's software still is largely untested in large organizations which
had been a major focus at NeXT, which was headed by Apple co-founder Steve
Jobs. "We have no credibility in the enterprise market -- I accept that,"
Gassee said, adding that despite the distraction of the Apple merger talks,
which had begun in June, his company was prepared to go it alone on its
original business plan, noting its financial backers' support predates the
merger prospect.
He said more than 2,000 developers had their hands on its software and that
Be would go back to working with Apple Macintosh-compatible computer maker
Power Computing and focus itself on the creative multimedia market. And,
in the company's favor are "the rapidly changing dynamics of the computer
marketplace, the prospect of cheaply marketing and delivering software over
the Internet, and Be's working relationship with Power Computing and others
in the PowerPC grouping of Apple, Motorola and IBM," said Reuters.
PC Consumer Software Market Rises
The worldwide PC consumer software market expanded to $4.5 billion in 1996,
finds a new study from Framingham, Massachusetts, market researcher
Intenational Data Corp. "End users continued to incorporate computing into
their personal lives driving steady growth across the three major consumer
segments: games and entertainment, education and edutainment and home
productivity," says Mary Loffredo Wardley, IDC's consumer software research
manager.
IDC's study finds that the games and entertainment sector grew the most out
of the three market segments (17.6 percent) to a total of $2.17 billion.
Market share among the three segments changed little from 1995, notes the
report. Education and edutainment titles currently account for a 26.9
percent share while home productivity packages represents a 24.9 percent
piece of the PC consumer software market. The games and entertainment
segment holds a 48.2 percent share.
The education and edutainment market is luring vendors, states the study,
which notes that most schools have a budgeted line item for education
software. The study adds that schools represent a market opportunity since
many purchase edutainment titles to augment course work. In software
marketing, the study notes that channel frustrations continued in 1996,
with limited shelf space and appropriate channel choices being major
issues. Office stores and computer super stores are offering the best
opportunities for software sales, since they can support narrow margins
better than software only sales, notes the report. The Internet offers
hope, the study adds, but its random and untargeted features have been
limiting. The time and cost to establish and maintain a site is also a
factor, although smaller companies without shelf space have had to use the
Internet as a marketing tool.
IDC's reports predicts that 1997 PC consumer market revenues will be spread
more equally across the three segments as established vendors diversify
their current product lines. The education and edutainment market will be
in contention for market share leadership. Demand for activities like home
banking and multi-player games on the Internet will evolve in 1997, notes
IDC. The selling of software to homes with PCs on the Internet will
increase as vendors focus their marketing efforts on tapping into this
expanding market. IDC's World Wide Web site (www.idcresearch.com) contains
additional information and recent news releases. It also offers full-text
searching of recent research.
Free Fax Service Debuts on Web
A Mountain View, California, company is offering MagicFax, a software
product that will allow users to send faxes to any destination in the world
for free. Clarity Software Inc. says the product is the first of its kind
to allows individuals in ompanies of all sizes to send faxes to other
MagicFax users around the world without receiving any phone bills or
monthly service bills. MagicFax routes the fax to the sender's MagicFax Web
Server nearest to the recipient to avoid long distance charges.
Clarity notes that an average international five-page fax sent from the
U.S. to Japan costs approximately $18 over traditional phone lines. The
same fax sent by MagicFax over the Web can be free of all phone charges. A
beta test version of MagicFax is available for free on Clarity's Web site:
www.magicfax.clarity.com. The software is compatible with UNIX or Windows
NT servers as well as Windows and UNIX clients.
Newbies Best Software Customers
New PC owners are the best software customers, more than twice as likely to
buy programs as the average PC owner, according to new data compiled by the
software tracking service of market researcher The NPD Group Inc. The Port
Washington, New York, company's SofTrends Consumer Study finds that 14
percent of all PC-owning households bought software between June and August
of 1996, the period covered by the study. However, among new PC owners
(consumers who had owned a PC for less than six months), nearly a third
made purchases.
The study also finds that the longer consumers had owned their PCs, the
less likely they were to purchase software. Less than 10 percent of
consumers who had owned their PCs for a year or more made purchases.
Online service subscribers also indexed higher for software purchasing, the
survey finds, with nearly a quarter reporting buys. And ownership of CD-ROM
drives and modems also influenced purchase patterns -- 23 percent of
CD-ROM-owning homes and 19 percent of modem-equipped households bought
software.
The SofTrends survey finds that 20 percent of all software units purchased
during the survey period were bought direct from publisher, up from 13
percent a year ago. The next largest sources of software sales were
computer superstores (14 percent), consumer electronics stores (12 percent)
nd warehouse clubs (9 percent). "Since 1995, it has been an upward trend in
consumers purchasing direct from publisher," says Diane Freedman, manager
of SofTrends, "particularly purchases of those titles developed for the Mac
platform."
The survey finds that productivity and entertainment titles remain the
best-selling categories. However, the study also shows consumers buying
slightly less productivity software (30 percent this year vs. 34 percent a
year ago) and slightly more entertainment software (29 percent vs. 26
percent). Not surprisingly, Microsoft continues to dominate the total
market as the most popular publisher, with an 11 percent share of reported
units sold. Twenty-seven percent of software purchases reported were
acquired for the Windows 95 operating system. The second and third most
popular publishers were Sierra On-Line at 5 percent and Broderbund at 4
percent.
Most consumers reported they were either satisfied or very satisfied with
software performance, according to the survey. Most also felt that their
software was easy to use and easy to install. "Overall, consumer
satisfaction ratings were very positive," says Freedman. "Since SofTrends
began conducting the study nearly two years ago, they've shown consistent
improvement with each survey, indicating better performing software and a
more savvy consumer." Retailers also scored high marks in the SofTrends
study. When asked to rate the retailer on staff, direct from publisher and
mail order ranked high on satisfaction. Ranking highest on overall customer
satisfaction were computer superstores and direct from publisher. For more
information, visit the SofTrends Web site at http://www.npd.com/soft.htm.
Study: PC 'Must Have' Technology
Results of a new nationwide survey of U.S. teens and adults, finds that
Americans believe the computer is a "must have" technology that plays a
positive role in everyday lives and helps people address broader social
issues. The similarity of responses among different age and gender groups
also indicates a strong positive consensus among the populace, notes the
survey, which as sponsored by Intel Corp. and conducted by Yankelovich
Partners Inc.
When asked to place the computer today on a scale of 1 to 10 (where 1 means
the computer revolution is just beginning and 10 means it's over), 60
percent of the respondents selected numbers between 1-3. In addition, over
half indicated that they look to the computer to expand their capabilities
and possibilities by helping them to accomplish new things rather than
merely enabling them to do current things better.
The study notes that almost nine out of ten Americans believe that
telephones and cars are both "must have" technologies -- that is either
"hard to live without" or "essential." About one out of two Americans see
the PC as a "must have" item, roughly equivalent to television and radio.
Respondents were even more bullish when considering the future of the PC:
almost nine out of ten believe the PC will be as necessary as the
telephone and the car in the future of today's children, compared to only
about six out of ten for the television.
According to the study, three-quarters of Americans view technology as
playing a major role in influencing the U.S. economy. This puts technology
tird behind health care and agriculture/food, but ahead of such traditional
economic heavyweights as defense and transportation. Interest in technology
generally outscores interest levels in sports, politics and international
news among other areas, finds the study.
Contrary to some views that computers will replace workers or reduce skill
levels, nine out of ten Americans feel strongly that computers will play a
positive role in improving job quality and three-quarters believe that they
will help reduce unemployment. A large majority also believe that
technology in general and computers in particular will help keep the U.S.
competitive and aid in addressing other social problems.
The study finds that Americans see enormous personal potential and benefit
in the personal computer. For example, nine out of ten Americans believe
that the PC will have a positive impact on continuous/lifelong learning and
helping them find the information they want most. A large majority also
look to the PC to help in other ways such as managing finances, providing
entertainment, communicating and increasing efficiency/allowing more
leisure time.
Asked to choose from a pair of words the one that best describes their
feelings about computers, a large majority opt for the positive
alternative. For example: nine out of ten choose "creates opportunities"
over "denies chance;" almost the same number choose "engaging" rather than
"dull" and "friend" rather than "enemy." Some challenges and opportunities
for improvement remain in the areas of usability and accessibility, notes
the study. While over half of the respondents choose the words "easy" and
"affordable" to describe PCs, a large number still describe computers as
"difficult" or "unaffordable." "As microprocessor technology delivers more
and more computing capability, we wanted to get feedback on consumers'
views of the computer compared to other consumer items," says Dennis
Carter, Intel's vice president of marketing. "The results of this study on
American views of technology ar a strong endorsement of the PC and its
appeal to a broad range of users."
Study Says Net Is No Phone Threat
A study commissioned by an Internet industry group has concluded that the
fast-growing Internet poses little threat to the nation's telephone
networks. Reporting from Washington, the Dow Jones news service quotes the
Internet Access Coalition, which includes companies such as Intel Corp. and
Microsoft Corp., as saying its study refutes recent claims by local
telephone carriers who say the growing pace of digital traffic threatens to
clog telephone lines.
Says Lee Selwyn, the author of the study and president of Economics and
Technology Inc. of Boston, "Our findings clearly show that claims of phone
network congestion resulting from Internet traffic and predictions of a
meltdown are greatly exaggerated." The wire service notes the new study
comes as some regional Baby Bells are voicing growing concern over use of
the network by Internet service providers, who are exempt from paying
access fees to local carriers who connect calls.
As reported, the FCC last month launched an inquiry into Internet use, but
tentatively concluded that the system of access charges shouldn't be
extended to include Internet providers. The regional phone companies have
argued that by avoiding access fees, Internet service companies are
essentially getting a free ride on the nation's phone lines. They say the
providers should help pay to maintain and upgrade telephone networks that
are handling growing amounts of digital data.
However, says DJ, the study concludes that:
z Data communications doesn't currently pose a significant problem to
the integrity of telephone networks.
z The increase in data traffic has produced additional revenues for
local carriers that far exceed their costs for accommodating that traffic.
z The long-term solution to meet increased demand lies in the deployment
of data-friendly network technologies.
Intel executive Paul Misener, who chairs the Internet Access Coalition
steering committee, told the wire service, "We intend to work closely with
the FCC and policy makers in Congress and in the administration to ensure
that this country continues to support the growth and health of our
information society."
Distance Advised for Monitors
Ergonomics experts are revising their thinking about how far we all should
be sitting from our computer monitors. They now say that for good eye
health, we need to move the screen back farther. Dennis R. Ankrum,
director of Human Factors Research for Nova Solutions Inc. in Effingham,
Ill., says in the current issue of Workplace Ergonomics magazine that the
old recommendations for viewing distances of around 20 inches are based on
what you may have to do to see the letters on the screen, not on what is
good for your eyes. When looking straight ahead, Ankrum notes, your eye
muscles are most relaxed when you're viewing something about 45 inches
away. When looking downward, at the angle at which you normally read a
book, your eyes are most relaxed at a closer viewing distance -- about 35
inches.
Viewing a monitor at those distances or farther does not create a proble,
he says, but when you view it at a closer range, you're setting yourself up
for eye strain. Therefore, Ankrum recommends you lower your monitor and
move it as far back as possible, but definitely no closer than 25 inches.
The magazine says the old recommendation were based on character size (if
you sit too far away you can't read the letters on the screen), but with
newer software, you can easily increase the letter size. But the new
thinking, says Ankrum is, "The farther the viewing distance, the better."
A T T E N T I O N-A T T E N T I O N-A T T E N T I O N
LEXMARK OPTRA C
COLOR
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For a limited time only; If you wish to have a FREE sample printout sent to
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Folks, the LEXMARK Optra C has to be the very best yet in its price range.
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If you would like a sample printout that's suitable for framing. Yes
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A T T E N T I O N-A T T E N T I O N-A T T E N T I O N
PageMaker 6.5 STR Focus
Windows PageMaker 6.5 to 6.51 Update
PRODUCT: PageMakerVERSION: 6.xPLATFORM: WindowsRELEASED ON:
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(860K)
DESCRIPTION
This update modifies an existing installation of PageMaker 6.5 for Windows
95 and Windows NT to fix a small number of problems that were discovered
after the product was released. After running this update, PageMaker
will appear as version 6.51. This update specifically fixes these problems
in PageMaker 6.5:
Some keyboard shortcuts failed to work when running an English version
of PageMaker 6.5 with keyboard drivers other than the US English driver.
On Windows 95 systems, PageMaker 6.5 substituted Courier for printer
resident fonts that were not also present as outlines in ATM. PageMaker
6.51 corrects this problem and prints the appropriate font.
Undoing the deletion of text that includes hyperlinks in the PageMaker
6.5 story editor could result in lost hyperlink information in the
PageMaker 6.5 publication. PageMaker version 6.51 corrects this problem.
Panning with the cropping tool in an empty frame or resizing a grouped
irregular text frame could crash PageMaker 6.5. PageMaker version 6.51
corrects these flaws in the frames feature.
This update also improves the following components: Build Booklet, HTML
Import Plug-In, and Adobe Table. For further details on all improvements
with PageMaker 6.51 for Windows, please see the Read Me document included
in this archive.
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
PageMaker 6.5 for Windows
Windows 95 or Windows NT
AVAILABLE OFFLINE?
This update is available at no charge to registered owners of PageMaker 6.5
for Windows from Adobe Customer Services. Inside the United States and
Canada, call 800-833-6687. Outside the United States and Canada, contact
your local Adobe reseller.
HANDLING NOTES
To decompress a ".exe" file in Windows 95 and Windows NT, double-click on
the ".exe" file.
By using the software described here, you agree to the terms of the license
agreement set forth below.
INSTALLATION NOTES
To update PageMaker for Windows from version 6.5 to version 6.51, read the
Read Me document included in the archive for detailed instructions for
both single-user and network installations. Before proceeding, be sure to
to exit all programs, including Pagemaker 6.5, and turn off virus-detection
and screen-saver software.
ADDITIONAL NOTES
This update is only for owners of PageMaker 6.5 for Windows. Owners of
PageMaker 6.0x for Windows will not benefit from this update. Owners of
localized versions of PageMaker 6.5 for Windows (e.g., French, Dutch,
German, Italian, Spanish, and Swedish) do not need this update because the
problems described above were fixed before the localized versions were
released.
This update only correct problems listed in the Read Me document included
in the archive. If you are experiencing problems that are not listed,
please contact Adobe Technical Support using the information included with
your product.
LICENSE AGREEMENT
By downloading software of Adobe Systems Incorporated or its subsidiaries
("Adobe") from this site, you agree to the following terms and conditions.
If you do not agree with such terms and conditions do not download the
software. The terms of an end user license agreement accompanying a
particular software file upon installation or download of the software
shall supercede the terms presented below.
If the software is designed for use with an application software product
(the "Host Application") published by Adobe, Adobe grants you a non-
exclusive license to use such software with the Host Application only,
provided you possess a valid license from Adobe for the Host Application.
Except as set forth below, such software is licensed to you subject to the
terms and conditions of the End User License Agreement from Adobe
governing your use of the Host Application.
DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES: YOU AGREE THAT ADOBE HAS MADE NO EXPRESS
WARRANTIES TO YOU REGARDING THE SOFTWARE AND THAT THE SOFTWARE IS BEING
PROVIDED TO YOU "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND. ADOBE DISCLAIMS ALL
WARRANTIES WITH REGARD TO THE SOFTWARE, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING,
WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE, MERCHANTABILITY, MERCHANTABLE QUALITY OR NONINFRINGEMENT OF THIRD
PARTY RIGHTS. Some states or jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion of
implied warranties so the above limitations may not apply to you. LIMIT
OF LIABILITY: IN NO EVENT WILL ADOBE BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR ANY LOSS OF USE,
INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS, OR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND (INCLUDING LOST PROFITS) REGARDLESS OF
THE FORM OF ACTION WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), STRICT
PRODUCT LIABILITY OR OTHERWISE, EVEN IF ADOBE HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. Some states or jurisdictions do not allow the
exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the
above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
FILE CONTENTS
Filename Filesize Date Time Long Filename
PM651UPD EXE 883,328 01-10-97 3:12p PM651UPD.EXE
README DOC 9,613 01-17-97 4:10p README.DOC
LICENSE TXT 1,906 10-09-96 3:42p license.txt
KEYWORDS 6.5.1 6.51 patcher
Shareware Treasure Chest STR Feature "The Latest & Greatest"
Shareware Treasure Chest
By Lloyd E. Pulley
lepulley@streport.com
Lloyd is home now doing fine.. Triple By-Pass Open Heart Surgery. He sends
his thank you's for all your kind thoughts and prayers.
Corel Corporation Ships
Life Science Mysteries: Crisis at the Animalia CenterT
OTTAWA, Canada - January 20, 1997 - Corel Corporation has begun shipping
Life Science Mysteries: Crisis at the Animalia CenterT, an educational CD-
ROM game introducing youngsters aged 9 to 16 to the animal kingdom. This
dual-platform CD-ROM title also runs on Windowsr 95 and carries a suggested
retail price of $39.95 U.S.
"Life Science Mysteries: Crisis at the Animalia CenterT is an ideal tool
for learning both research and observation skills,"said Dr. Michael
Cowpland, president and chief executive officer of Corel Corporation. "It
also gives users a general overview of the animal kingdom and lets them
relate this knowledge to other branches of science, as well as their own
life experiences."
The crisis surrounding the Animalia Research Center consists of two
different problems which require the users' immediate intervention. In
"Computer Breakdown," an unusually powerful electrical storm has caused a
breakdown of the Center's entire computer system, destroying all of the
data stored in the Center's computers. The only way to restore the lost
data is to enter a secret password into the computer. Users will have to
figure out this password by answering questions on the locomotion, skeletal
structure and phyla of different animals.
The other assignment, "Danger and Defense in the Wild," is also the title
of an exhibit scheduled to open at the Center in less than 24 hours. Users
are asked to finish the exhibit for the Center using plans for the
unfinished displays as a guide. In order to complete their task, users
must research defense mechanisms such as spraying and stinging, mimicry and
camouflage, and then order the appropriate materials for each of the
display themes.
Users will find the Learn Zone, an on-line encyclopedia with educational
games, text, animations, diagrams and self tests, very useful in completing
their assignments. The information in the Learn Zone is available to users
in all rooms of the Animalia Research Center. By clicking on the Learn
Zone link, users are referred directly to the section in the encyclopedia
that covers their topic of research. The Learn Zone contains information
that can be used both in the users' work at the Animalia Research Center
and their own science projects.
The Learn Zone contains six different scientific learning modules which
include, "Science & Technology: Observations and Inferences," "Survey of
the Vertebrate Phyla" and "Survey of the Vertebrate Classes." In addition,
it teaches users the seven steps of the scientific method and the six
defining characteristics of the animal kingdom.
The users' activities at the Animalia Research Center will require that
they work in various areas, such as the Resource Center, the Special
Exhibits and New Displays areas, the Terrestrial Gallery and the Underwater
Observatory. Users will stay in touch with the Center's staff over email,
an intercom, the telephone and a video conference system. Users can save,
open or change their missions. Before they start working at the Center,
they can take a guided tour of the Center and familiarize themselves with
its resources. In addition, they can print any lessons in the Learn Zone
and access a 215-word dictionary of scientific words and terms.
Development and Systems Requirements
Life Science Mysteries: Crisis at the Animalia Research CenterT was
developed by EduConcept Ltd. Windowsr users will require a minimum of an
IBMr PC or compatible 486 DX33, Windowsr 3.1x, 8 MB of RAM, 4 MB of hard
disk space, a double-speed CD-ROM drive, 8-bit audio capabilities and a
640x480, 256-color graphics display. Macintoshr users will need a minimum
of a 68030 processor, System 7.1, 16 MB of RAM, 4 MB of hard disk space, a
double-speed CD-ROM drive, standard Macintoshr audio and a 640x480, 256-
color graphics display.
Corel Corporation Releases Life Science MysteriesT
The Green Files
OTTAWA, Canada - January 20, 1997 - Corel Corporation has begun shipping
Life Science Mysteries: The Green FilesT, an educational game designed to
teach children aged 9 to 16 the structure of cells and the effects of the
environment on organisms. This dual-platform CD-ROM title also runs on
Windowsr 95 and carries a suggested retail price of $39.95 U.S.
"Life Science Mysteries: The Green FilesT is a fascinating way to learn
about the life cycle of cells and the effect of toxic waste on the
environment," said Dr. Michael Cowpland, president and chief executive
officer of Corel Corporation. "It also encourages the use of the
scientific method in the users' observations and conclusions."
Users conduct their scientific experiments aboard a ship called the "Blue
Whale," where they are given two assignments. The first assignment, called
"Oil Spill," requires a close examination of the underwater life at Baron
Coral Reef in the Pacific Ocean. This area has just suffered one of the
worst oil spills to ever affect one region. The scientists who have been
working at the Reef are in need of healthy underwater organisms to compare
with those affected by the spill, and hope that the users can help by
collecting plant specimens. Users will also be asked to perform
experiments and report their findings to the team of scientists.
For the second assignment, called "The Gemco Disaster," users must inspect
the fresh water supply on Coco Bay Island which has been jeopardized by
toxic waste from Gemco Chemicals. By analyzing samples of soil, water and
vegetation from different parts of the island, users must assess the extent
of the damage and report how this incident has affected life on Coco Bay
Island.
>From wherever they are on the "Blue Whale," users can access the Learn
Zone, an on-line encyclopedia with educational games, text, animations,
diagrams and self tests, which will prove extremely useful in their
experiments. By clicking on the Learn Zone link, users are referred
directly to the section in the encyclopedia that covers their research
topic. The Learn Zone contains information that can be used both in the
experiments on the "Blue Whale" and in the users' own scientific projects.
The information in the Learn Zone is divided into six scientific learning
modules, including "The Scientific Method," "Characteristics and Needs of
Organisms" and "Scientific Naming of Organisms." It also teaches users the
principles of observation and inference, the structure and function of cells and
how cells grow, divide and specialize.
Users have access to different rooms on the "Blue Whale," including the
Laboratory, the Storage Room and the Diving Area. They also have all the
equipment and facilities on the "Blue Whale" at their disposal, including a
microscope, a computer, a fax machine, a video conference system, and email
capabilities. Users can save, open or change their mission. Before they
start their work, they can take a guided tour of the "Blue Whale" to
acquaint themselves with the ship and its resources. They can, as well,
print any lessons in the Learn Zone and access a 215-word glossary of
scientific words and terms.
Development and Systems Requirements
Life Science Mysteries: The Green FilesT was developed by EduConcept Ltd.
Windowsr users will require a minimum of an IBMr PC or compatible 486 DX33,
Windowsr 3.1x, 8 MB of RAM, 4 MB of hard disk space, a double-speed CD-ROM
drive, 8-bit audio capabilities and a 640x480, 256-color graphics display.
Macintoshr users will need a minimum of a 68030 processor, System 7.1, 16
MB of RAM, 4 MB of hard disk space, a double-speed CD-ROM drive, standard
Macintoshr audio and a 640x480, 256-color graphics display.
Marimba, Inc. Enables Corel Corporation to Deliver Self-Updating
Productivity Applications Via Castanet Channel Technology
Corel's Streamlined 'Corel Office for Java' Channel To Feature Ongoing
Development and Updates Throughout Beta Cycle
PALO ALTO, Calif. -- Jan. 21, 1997 -- Marimba Inc., developer of the
Castanet system for Internet and Intranet-wide software and content
deployment, announced today that Corel Corporation, developer of award-
winning productivity applications, graphics and multimedia software, will
deliver its pre-beta Corelr Office for JavaT, via Castanet channel
technology. This makes possible, for the first time, completely transparent
installation and updates of the corporate user's desktop programs.
"The decision to deploy and update this desktop suite using a Castanet
channel provides an extremely efficient, cost-effective way to get the
latest software updates automatically to the thousands of Corel program
users," said Kim Polese, president and chief executive officer of Marimba,
Inc. "This alliance will dramatically shorten the development cycle of
next generation productivity applications, a process which has
traditionally been hampered by software installation and version
incompatibility."
"Corel Office for Java, the first desktop application suite written
entirely in Java, combines the expertise of Corel's productivity
applications with the power of Castanet to attain a self-updating,
streamlined, platform-independent and infinitely scaleable new environment
for document creation and workgroup collaboration," said Dr. Michael
Cowpland, president and chief executive officer of Corel. "The Castanet
mechanism for software distribution is an excellent vehicle for
distributing this new suite and allows beta application updates to be
integrated on the fly through each user's running channel."
By securely leveraging the efficiency and universality of the Internet,
distribution of Corel Office for Java via a Castanet channel represents the
next generation of software application deployment for corporate
enterprises.
About Corel Office for Java
Corel Office for Java delivers a complete Client/Server enterprise
solution. The pre-beta download contains the client side only and
includes Corelr WordPerfectr for JavaT, Corelr Quattror Pro for JavaT,
Corelr Chart for JavaT, as well as a new Personal Information Manager and
email component. Corel Office for Java offers a modular, extensible,
platform-independent, document and network-centric environment for document
creation and workgroup collaboration. Thousands of users have already
downloaded this pre-beta since it became available on Monday, January 13,
1997.
About Castanet
The Castanet system deploys rich media content and self-updating software
to millions of users across the Internet. The system comprises the Castanet
Tuner client and the Castanet Transmitter server. The Tuner enables end-
users to subscribe to application `channels' deployed by various
Transmitters across the Internet or corporate networks. Examples of the
types of channels that the Castanet system enables include multimedia
entertainment, interactive games and productivity applications -- all
updated in the background of users' desktops with next-generation
efficiency of bandwidth allocation. Tens of thousands of end-users on
Windows and Solaris operating systems have already downloaded beta Castanet
Tuners from Marimba's Web site (http://www.marimba.com) since Castanet
debuted on October 7, 1996.
Among the hundreds of developers already evaluating Castanet for Internet
and corporate Intranet use include Trilogy, @Home, MGM Interactive,
HotWired, Excite, CMP, SportsLine, Sarrus, Inc., Tribune Media, United
Media, and PeopleSoft. Netscape Communications Corp. recently announced it
will integrate the Castanet Tuner into Netscape's forthcoming desktop
environment code-named `Constellation.'
Castanet is compatible with all Java development tools and runs on any
platform that supports the Java Virtual Machine, including Windows NT,
Windows 95, Solaris 2.5 and the Mac OS. Castanet 1.1, expected to be
available in the first half of 1997, will include encryption support to
enable the deployment of non-Java executable code over public networks, as
well as "pay-per-view" functionality.
About Marimba, Inc.
Marimba, Inc. is a privately held applications technology company whose
products enable developers to create, deploy and maintain robust network-
managed applications, multimedia experiences and dynamic information
systems within enterprises and across the Internet. Marimba was founded in
February 1996 by four members of the original Java development team at Sun
Microsystems: Jonathan Payne, Kim Polese, Sami Shaio and Arthur van Hoff.
Marimba, Inc. is based in Palo Alto, California.
Availability
A pre-beta version of Corel Office for Java is now available for download
at Corel's Web site (http://www.corel.com). A link to Marimba's home page
from Corel's Web site is available for users wishing to experience the self-
updating Castanet channel of the pre-beta of Corel Office for Java. The
free beta version of Marimba's Castanet is also now available on the
Marimba Web site (http://www.marimba.com).
Corel Corporation Reports
1996 Fourth Quarter and Year-end Results
OTTAWA, Canada - January 15, 1997 - Corel Corporation today announced
financial results for its fourth quarter and fiscal year which ended
November 30, 1996. Net sales for the fourth quarter were $125.4 million, a
102% increase over 1995's fourth quarter. The company reported a net income
of $6.5 million, compared to a net loss of $1 million for the fourth
quarter in 1995. This translates into earnings per share of $0.09 in the
fourth quarter of 1996, compared to a loss of $0.02 per share in the fourth
quarter of 1995.
For the 1996 fiscal year, the company recorded net sales of $334.2 million,
a 70% increase over 1995's net sales of $196.4 million. It has posted a net
loss for the year of $2.8 million which translates to a per share loss of
$0.04, compared to 1995's net income of $14.4 million and earnings per
share of $0.26.
"Although the earnings per share are down for the year as a whole, the
strong fourth quarter sales - an incredible gain from the same quarter in
1995 - point to a banner year in 1997," said Dr. Michael Cowpland,
president and chief executive officer of Corel Corporation. "Besides
looking forward to continued success with our world-leading graphics line,
in particular CorelDRAWT 7, we will continue to focus on providing
innovative and feature-rich business applications software, and maximizing
the benefits of open standards through our strategic alliance with
Netscape."
"In addition, our strong relationship with Sun and our position as the
leading developer of business Java applications places us in a unique
position to benefit from the huge momentum that Java continues to build,"
added Dr. Cowpland. Looking ahead to 1997, Corel will continue to
capitalize on the ongoing success of its flagship graphics product,
CorelDRAW, while increasing its market share with such products as Corelr
WordPerfectr Suite 8, Corelr Office Professional 8, and Corelr WordPerfectr
7 for Windowsr 3.1. Corel will also maintain its position as an
innovator in the Java arena by launching Corelr Office for JavaT and the
CorelVIDEOT Network Computer, which will be bundled with Corel Office for
Java, early in the year.
As at November 30, 1996, Corel had $196.2 million in current assets which
included $6.9 million in cash and short-term investments. For more
information, please contact Corel's Investor Relations Department, at (613)
728-8200 ext. 4500, fax (613) 761-9350. All figures are reported in US
currency.
Corel Corporation
Incorporated in 1985, Corel Corporation is recognized internationally as an
award-winning developer and marketer of productivity applications, graphics
and multimedia software. Corel's product line includes CorelDRAWT, Corelr
WordPerfectr Suite, Corelr Office Professional, CorelVIDEOT, CorelCADT and
over 50 multimedia software titles. Corel's products run on most operating
systems, including: Windowsr, Macintoshr, UNIXr, MS-DOSr, OpenVMSr and
OS/2r and are consistently rated among the strongest in the industry. The
company ships its products in over 17 languages through a network of more
than 160 distributors in 70 countries worldwide. Corel is traded on the
Toronto Stock Exchange (symbol: COS) and the NASDAQ--National Market System
(symbol: COSFF). For more information visit Corel's home page on the
Internet at http://www.corel.com.
Corel and WordPerfect are registered trademarks, and Life Science
Mysteries: Crisis at the Animalia Research Center, CorelDRAW, CorelCAD and
CorelVIDEO are trademarks of Corel Corporation or Corel Corporation
Limited. All products mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks of
their respective companies.
EDUPAGE STR Focus Keeping the users informed
Edupage
Contents
AOL Plans To Build Up Network Capacity
ACLU Challenges New York Internet Law
Chillier Chips
Compaq Steps Up To NC Challenge
Cost Savings From NC Concept Questioned
Virtual Learning Superior To Traditional Instruction
Grade Reporting At The Turn Of The Century
"Push" Channel Filters For Info Overload
Mutual Funds: Web Used Mostly For Looking
Chinabyte
1996 Telecom Bill: What Hath It (Actually) Wrought?
Netscape Communicator Is Peat Marwick Pick
CompuServe Targets Europe
Software For Teaching Over The Net
Poking Holes In Net Security
What To Be Next?
FGCU Targets Distance Learners
The Most Well-Connected Country In The World? Finland!
Olivetti Sells Its PC Unit
Competing With Phone Companies
U S West Expands Services
Pornography On The Net
ACLU Fights Political Restrictions On Academic Facilities
Gartner VP Says Don't Throw Those PCs Out Yet
AT&T WorldNet Benefits From AOL Logjam
Internet Patent Numbers
Superscape's 3-D Web-Within-A-Web
CR Tackles Online Medical Help
Virtual Pet Sweeping Japan
Online Sex Sting
Muppets Go To Microsoft
AOL PLANS TO BUILD UP NETWORK CAPACITY
America Online says it will reduce its ad campaign budget by $300 million
and plow an extra $100 million into bulking up its network capacity to
accommodate higher traffic loads. By downgrading marketing efforts, the
company hopes to stem the flow of new subscribers that has overwhelmed
AOL's ability to provide prompt connectivity. The amount of time a member
typically spends online has more than doubled, from 14 to 32 minutes,
since AOL reluctantly adopted flat-rate pricing last month. By the time
the company completes its network expansion next June, it will be capable
of handling 16 million online sessions each day, up from 10 million.
(Wall Street Journal 17 Jan 97 B7)
ACLU CHALLENGES NEW YORK INTERNET LAW
The American Civil Liberties Union, along with 14 other plaintiffs, has
filed a lawsuit against the state of New York, stating that the recently
enacted online decency statute is facially unconstitutional under the First
and Fourteenth Amendments to the U.S. Constitution and is impermissibly
vague. The law makes it a felony to distribute to children under 17
"indecent" material that is "harmful to minors" over a computer system.
The ACLU argues that New York's law "does not define the relevant
'community' for purposes of determining what is 'patently offensive' in
the global medium of cyberspace," nor does it distinguish between what
might be harmful to young children and vs. what might be harmful to
teenagers. Finally, the lawsuit says the statute violates the Commerce
Clause because it attempts to regulate communications that take place
outside New York, poses an unreasonable burden on interstate and foreign
commerce, and subjects interstate use of the Internet to inconsistent
regulations. (BNA Daily Report for Executives 15 Jan 97 A13)
CHILLIER CHIPS
Researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology are using the concept
behind how smoke rings are produced to devise a system for keeping
computer chips cool. The device is simple: it consists of a box with one
flexible wall and a series of holes in the opposite wall; by vibrating the
flexible wall at the proper frequency, cooling jets of air puff out of the
holes. The boxes are as small as 100 microns in diameter, and because the
microjets are highly directional, they can be pointed where needed. In one
test, the researchers were able to boost the power of an array of chips by
150%, with no increase in temperature. (Scientific American Jan 97 p40)
COMPAQ STEPS UP TO NC CHALLENGE
Compaq Computer, not content to rest on its laurels, is planning a new line
of network computers, designed as e-mail, Internet and terminal-
replacement devices, which the company plans to bundle with its PC servers.
The systems will include a separate monitor, a thin chassis and a keyboard,
and will be priced in the $500 to $800 range. The company also plans to
introduce a NetPC this year -- a low-cost, easy-to-use networked PC built
to standards devised by Intel and Microsoft. "We believe there is a market
for these devices and that our customers want them, and we'll deliver them
to the market," says a Compaq VP. (Information Week 13 Jan 97 p24)
COST SAVINGS FROM NC CONCEPT QUESTIONED
Some of the enthusiasm for the network computer concept has been generated
by companies hoping to save money by eliminating some of the widely
publicized costs associated with maintaining a PC. A Gartner Group study
last year estimated that a networked PC costs a business an average of
$13,200 a year -- 21% is the cost of the PC and the portion of the network
it consumes; 36% is the cost of administering it; and 43% is the cost of
"end-user operations" -- employee tinkering, game playing, etc. However,
purchasing network computers will not save the entire $13,200 -- the cost
of the network and the server that can support all the needs of network
computers will be far higher than those required for PCs, which basically
wipes out that savings. The cost of administering the system will indeed
be far lower, but there will be an additional cost involved in the
introduction of NCs. And the cost of lost employee productivity is perhaps
most difficult to measure -- indeed, if the employee is hooked directly to
the Internet, instead of playing Solitaire, even more company time might
be wasted. (The Economist 18 Jan 97)
VIRTUAL LEARNING SUPERIOR TO TRADITIONAL INSTRUCTION
A study produced by Jerald Schutte, an applied statistics professor at the
California State University at Northridge, claims that students learning
in a virtual classroom (using text posted online, e-mail, newsgroups,
chat, and electronic homework assignments) tested 20% better than their
students who learned the material in a traditional classroom. (News.Com 17
Jan 97)
GRADE REPORTING AT THE TURN OF THE CENTURY
The University of Utah has discontinued using the U.S. mail to send
students their grade reports, and will instead distribute grade
information exclusively by the World Wide Web or by telephone request. The
university will save $10,000 a month. Grades can only be obtained only
with a confidential identification number. (AP 17 Jan 96)
"PUSH" CHANNEL FILTERS FOR INFO OVERLOAD
Verity Inc. and Tierra Communications have developed products that filter
data channels "pushed" to Web users from content-delivery companies.
Verity's product will expand its search engine's agent technology to allow
users to fine-tune the information they receive by creating a profile for
what they want to receive off of a Web site's channel. Tierra is
developing a server-based model of its Highlights browser utility, which
monitors Web content and matches users' profiles on a dynamic basis.
"Verity and Tierra both have pieces of the puzzle. Verity has filtering
and back-end expertise, and Tierra has a nice client with a channel-type
metaphor that works great with browsers," says a Forrester Research
analyst. (InfoWorld Electric 10 Jan 97)
MUTUAL FUNDS: WEB USED MOSTLY FOR LOOKING
A study conducted last fall by the national research firm Elrick & Lavidge
found that 18% of mutual fund owners have Internet access and only 28% of
those who do have used the Web to check mutual fund sites. Those who do
visit mutual fund sites are interested mainly in checking fund share
prices, reading or downloading a fund prospectus, or checking a balance;
only 3% buy or sell shares. But mutual fund companies expect usage to
increase "as sites get better and investors begin to realize the
convenience offered by the Web." (New York Times 19 Jan 97 Business
Section p9)
CHINABYTE
In partnership with People's Daily, the Communist Party newspaper, Rupert
Murdoch's News Corporation is now offering ChinaByte, a Web-based service
in China, The Chinese Government recently loosened controls barring users
on the Internet's World Wide Web from accessing foreign news sources such
as CNN, the Wall Street Journal and other news providers, though it
continues keeping watch for politically suspect content on the worldwide
computer network. Murdoch hopes his investment will be recouped from
advertising. (Financial Times 16 Jan 97)
1996 TELECOM BILL: WHAT HATH IT (ACTUALLY) WROUGHT?
The aim of the telecommunications bill passed last February was to
encourage more competition, with the expectation that competition would
result in lower prices for consumers. Almost a year later, a few rates are
lower than the overall inflation rate (3.3%) but intrastate calls and cable
TV prices have significantly outpaced inflation. Percent changes, from
Dec. '95 to Dec. '96, for key indicators are: consumer price index for
all services, 3.3%; telephone services, 2.1%; telephone local charges,
0.9%; interstate toll calls, 3.7%; intrastate toll calls, 6.1%; cable
TV, 7.8%. (Washington Post 19 Jan 97 H01)
NETSCAPE COMMUNICATOR IS PEAT MARWICK PICK
The accounting firm KPMG Peat Marwick LLP has selected Netscape's
Communicator software package -- which is based on Internet "open
standards" and which combines a Web browser with workgroup collaboration
and e-mail -- for use by its 17,000 workers in 120 offices throughout the
U.S. The accounting firm will also act as a reseller of the software to
KPMG clients. (New York Times 21 Jan 97 C2)
COMPUSERVE TARGETS EUROPE
CompuServe, which already offers online access in the U.K., Germany, France
and the Netherlands, is expanding into four new European countries:
Switzerland, Austria, Sweden and Belgium. The company currently has
about 880,000 subscribers in Europe, compared with America Online's 400,000
and Microsoft Network's 100,000. "I think it's their only chance," says a
technology analyst at Banque Paribas. "They've been trounced by America
Online, so they have to go to those countries where AOL isn't." (Investor's
Business Daily 20 Jan 97 A20)
SOFTWARE FOR TEACHING OVER THE NET
A computer scientist at British Columbia has designed a set of software
tools called WebCT (for Web Course Tools) that allows instructors to
design online courses, create their own Web sites, hold interactive and
bulletin-board-type discussions, and administer exams, all on the Internet.
Professors simply enter their own material into pre-prepared forms, and
the virtual classroom takes shape. WebCT is already being used in more
than 70 courses at the University of British Columbia, and the program is
available for testing to faculty members outside the university. Once
testing is completed, the program's authors plan to charge a fee for its
use. (Chronicle of Higher Education 24 Jan 97 A23) <
http://homebrew.cs.ubc.ca/webct/ >
POKING HOLES IN NET SECURITY
Dan Farmer, author of SATAN software, which is designed to find holes in
Web site security systems, has conducted a nonscientific survey of about
2,200 Web sites, and found about 70% to 80% had "serious security flaws."
The survey consisted of 1,700 "high profile" sites, and another 500 that
were selected at random. The high profile sites were found to have
security problems at about twice the rate of the random sample. "Many of
the really interesting sites are juggling," explains Farmer. "They offer a
bunch of services -- electronic mail, Internet news, user accounts and the
like. Any one of these isn't that difficult to keep up in the air. But
put enough "balls" up there and you start losing track... It's simply
difficult to manage all this stuff over a long time. And often employees
are being screamed at just to keep things running -- not necessarily
secure. System administrators almost never get the proper budget or
training to do security properly." Of the 660 banks surveyed, about 68%
had sites that Farmer considered highly vulnerable. (Investor's Business
Daily 20 Jan 97 A6)
WHAT TO BE NEXT?
Be Inc. CEO Jean-Louis Gassee says now that he's no longer a potential
Apple partner, he's gearing up to market his BeOS system software for
multimedia developers, pointing to a recent licensing agreement with Power
Computing, a maker of Macintosh clones. Be will also continue to make its
PowerPC-based Be Box computers, and will port the BeOS to Intel
microprocessors "if we see an opportunity," says Gassee. Gassee also
suggests that Apple selected Next over Be for its new operating system in
part because of Next's ties to corporate computing. "My perspective is
that Apple sees in NextStep an opportunity to go into a marketplace that
has been a perennial problem, the enterprise market." (InfoWorld Electric
21 Jan 97)
FGCU TARGETS DISTANCE LEARNERS
The new Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU), which is scheduled to open
its doors next August, has as part of its charter a mandate to incorporate
distance learning practices into each of its 17 undergraduate and nine
graduate degree programs. The new school will use videotaped classes and
interactive, two-way video as well as the Internet to reach out to working
adults, homemakers and shut-ins who otherwise would not avail themselves
of the opportunity for higher education. FGCU consulted models such as
Britain's Open University and the University of Maryland in designing its
own program. (CIO 15 Jan 97 p21)
THE MOST WELL-CONNECTED COUNTRY IN THE WORLD? FINLAND!
In Finland there are 62 Internet host computers for each 1,000 people,
twice the proportion in the U.S. Nearly 30% of Finnish homes have
portable computers and about 60% have access to the Internet. (New York
Times 20 Jan 97 A1)
OLIVETTI SELLS ITS PC UNIT
Italian conglomerate Olivetti S.p.A is selling its personal computer
company to an investor's group called Piedmont International, which will
license the Olivetti brand name for 20 years (renewable for 20 years more)
and lease Olivetti's personal computer plant for four years. (Financial
Times 21 Jan 97)
COMPETING WITH PHONE COMPANIES
The Deloitte & Touche consulting company says the cable industry risks
losing a lot of money trying to compete in the phone business, and urges
cable companies not to use the superior fiber optic networks to deliver a
relatively low-tech service such as local phone calls; instead, the cable
companies should focus on video-on-demand and other two-way broadband
services. (Toronto Financial Post 21 Jan 97 p4)
U S WEST EXPANDS SERVICES
U S West Communications, the Denver, Colorado-based local phone service
provider, plans to begin offering long-distance phone service by the end
of the year, as well as wireless personal communication services allowing
customers to connect wireless phones with computers, fax machines and
pagers. The company will offer new high-speed digital Internet access to
customers in 10 cities in the next six months: Minneapolis, Seattle,
Phoenix, Portland, Denver, Salt Lake City, Boise, Cedar Rapids, and
Rochester, MN. (AP 20 Jan 97)
PORNOGRAPHY ON THE NET
A feature article on pornography on the Internet said the abundance of sex
on the Internet is the result of a century of obscenity battles won in the
courts. It mentions that Industry Canada has recently released a
background paper on illegal and offensive material on Internet, which
points out that many Web images are taken from magazines that are freely
available in Canada. (Ottawa Citizen 21 Jan 97 A4)
<http://info.ic.gc.ca/ic-data/info-highway/general/offensive/offens_e.html>
ACLU FIGHTS POLITICAL RESTRICTIONS
ON ACADEMIC FACILITIES
American Civil Liberties Union lawyer David Rocah says it's "ridiculous" to
think that a university's 501(c)3 nonprofit status could be jeopardized if
its faculty, staff or students use e-mail or Web pages to send partisan
political messages. "That's not the law, it can't be, and it never will
be. The law prevents the university itself from indulging in political
activity, not others using its property. With their logic, a professor
using a Princeton phone in a Princeton office couldn't talk about who to
vote for." Princeton University will now simply require that any personal
political opinions be clearly identified as being those of the sender
rather than of the university. (Reason Feb 97 p13)
GARTNER VP SAYS DON'T THROW THOSE PCs OUT YET
"Don't throw away your PCs. Network nirvana is not yet a reality," says
the Gartner Group's VP of research. A study released this week by Gartner
says network computers from Oracle, Sun Microsystems and IBM will result
in only a 41% savings over regular PCs running Windows 95, far below the
80% number used by Sun when it debuted its machine last October. But Sun
says it got its PC figures from an earlier Gartner study, and criticizes
the latest report because it includes an analysis of the NetPC design (a
joint product by Microsoft and Intel), which does not have any test models
currently available. Both Gartner and Sun do agree on the annual costs of
running the JavaStation -- roughly $2,500. (Investor's Business Daily 23
Jan 97 A6)
AT&T WORLDNET BENEFITS FROM AOL LOGJAM
AT&T is enjoying a recent boost in subscriber numbers, which it attributes
to overload problems experienced by America Online. AT&T says the number
of new subscribers has tripled this month from last, and in polling new
users, found that 45% are also AOL members. "A lot of the increase in
orders we're seeing is directly because of the publicity of AOL's
problems," says the head of WorldNet. "People care a lot about the
reliability of their Internet service. It's become a serious part of their
lives." An AOL spokesman says AT&T's 600,000 subscribers don't present
any threat to AOL's 8 million: "Our member retention is within historical
norms." (Wall Street Journal 23 Jan 97 B6)
INTERNET PATENT NUMBERS
The Internet Patent News Service (IPNS) says that in the first half of 1996
there were 3,966 patents issued, of which 919 were in network software and
528 were in image processing patents. (Communications of the ACM Jan 97)
SUPERSCAPE'S 3-D WEB-WITHIN-A-WEB
Palo Alto, Calif.-based Superscape Inc. operates a Virtual Web, comprising
about 60 corporate sites that sport 3-D pages as part of their Web
environment. "If you create an environment that's like an interactive
game, people like it," says Superscape's CEO, who also touts the benefits
of 3-D "test drive" shopping which, along with entertainment, is a prime
aspect of the Virtual Web. Companies such as United News Media Group,
Intel and Northern Telecom are among Superscape's Virtual Web clients.
(Broadcasting & Cable 13 Jan 97 p131) < http://www.vww.com >
CR TACKLES ONLINE MEDICAL HELP
Consumer Reports spent two months exploring and evaluating the myriad
medical information sites on the Web, and has concluded, "The wealth of
useful medical information available online is well worth the initial
difficulty of finding one's way around this new world -- and the constant
need to be on guard against dubious material." Their recommendations?
<http://www.ama-assn.org >, < http://www.medicinenet.com >,
<http://medscape.com >, < http://www.oncolink.upenn.edu >,
<http://parentsplace.com >,
<http://pathfinder.com/thrive >. Also recommended are two sites that offer
links to other sites:
<http://www.arcade.uiowa.edu/hardin-www/md.html > and
<http://www.slackinc.com/matrix >. Oh, and if it sounds too good to be
true, it probably is. (Consumer Reports Feb 97 p27)
VIRTUAL PET SWEEPING JAPAN
The newest high-tech consumer fad in Japan is tamagochii, an electronic
bird creature which starts life as an endearing, bird-like image on the
screen of an egg-shaped key ring device, and then changes from a chick to
a fully grown adult in around 10 days. However, the owner must push the
right buttons to feed, groom and soothe the digital creature or else see
it waste away and die from neglect. (Vancouver Province 23 Jan 97 A27)
ONLINE SEX STING
An Albany, New York, college business major was arrested yesterday in a
cyberporn sting operation, on a charge of using America Online to transmit
three dozen sexually explicit photos of children. (Vancouver Province 23
Jan 97 A37)
MUPPETS GO TO MICROSOFT
Jim Henson Productions, which created Kermit the Frog and all the other
Muppets, has agreed to a three- year deal with Microsoft Network, under
which the puppet company will develop nine shows for MSN. A Microsoft
executive says: "It's a very big win for us. When you think of family
programming, you think of Henson. This shows we can play with the big
boys." The expectation is that the programs will make use of real-time,
computer-controlled digital puppetry." (Atlanta Journal-Constitution 23
Jan 97 G3)
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Micrografx FlowCharter 7 Redefines Desktop Diagramming
New Solution First to Enable Dynamic On-Screen Interaction with Diagrams
Richardson, Texas (January 14, 1997) -- Micrografxr, Inc. (NASDAQ:MGXI), a
global leader in graphics software, announced today the immediate
availability of Micrografx FlowCharterr 7, the most productive diagramming
tool to manage business processes. An innovative business drawing,
diagramming and charting software tool, FlowCharter 7 includes patent-
pending Living FlowCharts, a first in the business diagramming category
which allows business people to dynamically interact with diagrams on-
screen. This unique technology enables users to create flowcharts that
collect data, perform calculations and simulate processes, helping them
gather information, teach others, understand a process, evaluate options,
make decisions and learn new skills.
In addition to the Living FlowCharts functionality, Micrografx FlowCharter
7 includes easy-to-follow wizards and templates to create more than 20
different diagram types, including pyramid charts, comparison charts,
timelines and circle spoke styles. Catering to the needs of enterprise-
wide corporate users and small business users alike, FlowCharter 7 brings a
new level of intuitiveness, power and extensibility to the diagramming
category.
"Micrografx FlowCharter 7 leapfrogs the competition by completely
redefining the desktop diagramming category. It does for flowcharting what
Lotus did for spreadsheets - allowing users to interactively build and
edit business diagrams, which are never static in real life." said Doug
Richard, president of Micrografx. "Users will return to FlowCharter 7 time
and time again, whether to create a simple process chart or even an
interactive customer survey. No other diagramming software is such an
indispensable business tool."
Micrografx FlowCharter 7 Outscores Visio in Usability In a November 1996
comparative test of Micrografx FlowCharter 7 and Visio 4.0 by independent
testing group Usability Sciences Corp., users completed tasks 43 percent
faster in FlowCharter than in Visio - translating into greater productivity
and efficiency for business people who use Micrografx FlowCharter 7.
"It is rare to see a product outperform a competitor as significantly as
FlowCharter did in this study, which focused on working with process
flowcharts and multi-page diagrams," said Jeff Schueler, president of
Usability Sciences Corp. "Users were more productive, more satisfied and
preferred Micrografx FlowCharter over Visio by a wide margin."
* For details on the test, methodology and results, please refer to the
attached Usability Study Summary document.
FlowCharter 7 Delivers Advanced Ability, Flexibility and Ease
Micrografx FlowCharter 7's new features add intuitiveness, power and
extensibility to the software. Among its new features are:
Living FlowCharts - gives the ability to create diagrams that are
interactive and dynamic, thereby helping users understand the content of
the diagram much more readily. Creators of Living FlowCharts can also
utilize the Shape Action Wizard (SAW) to apply actions to shapes and paths
adding interactivity to flow diagrams.
CoolSheets Templates - enables people to quickly and easily create
structured diagrams, such as pyramid-shaped charts, comparison charts,
timelines, checklists and target charts to embed in documents,
spreadsheets, and presentations. The new CoolSheets templates
automatically lay out the diagram structure and require the user to simply
drag-and-drop shapes into the CoolSheet, type in their text, and connect
shapes with lines.
Microsoftr Office 97 Compatibility - dramatically reduces the learning
curve for FlowCharter 7 with Microsoft Office 97 users. Micrografx
FlowCharter 7 supports tear-off menus and dockable toolbars, and it
utilizes the same common dialog structure found in all Microsoft Office 97
applications.
Microsoft Intellimouse Support - allows Micrografx FlowCharter 7 users to
more intuitively navigate through diagrams, especially complex flowcharts
that span multiple pages. Using the Intellimouse's innovative wheel,
scrolling through a document or zooming in to view data becomes a one-step
effort that alleviates hunting for scrollbars, buttons and menus on the
screen.
New Drawing Tools - provide customizability and added creativity with 10
freehand drawing tools, seven ways to combine shapes, 16 pre-defined shadow
effects and 20 pre-defined 3D effects. These new drawing tools greatly
enhance people's ability to generate shapes and special effects that more
effectively communicate the intent of a diagram.
Custom Templates, Shapes and Applications - allows Micrografx FlowCharter 7
to be utilized as a platform to create customized templates, shapes and
applications. FlowCharter 7's huge library of OLE automation application
programming interfaces (APIs) and methods makes it easy to tailor any
template or shape to custom specifications. Enterprise-wide deployment of
custom templates, shapes and applications ensure the same look-and-feel of
diagrams across a company.
What's Ahead for Micrografx FlowCharter
Micrografx plans significant enhancements to FlowCharter 7 over the coming
year. Updates will include:
Visio 4.0 File Filter - will allow previously created flow diagrams in
Visio to be easily imported into FlowCharter- increasing productivity and
leveraging previous investments.
Micrografx FlowCharter 7 Viewer - will allow Living FlowCharts to be
accessed from any source and run on a local PC without requiring
FlowCharter 7. The Viewer will be offered as a free download from the
Micrografx website.
Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) - will enable developers to
add specialized behavior to their diagrams and integrate them with other
applications like those in the new Microsoft Office 97.
Pricing and Availability
FlowCharter 7 carries a suggested retail price of $299.95, and an upgrade
price of $129.95 for ABC FlowCharter customers and users of competing
flowcharting products such as Visio, CorelFlow, and AllClear. The software
is available direct from Micrografx or via distributors including Ingram
Micro, Merisel, and Tech Data; retailers including CompUSA and Computer
City; mail-order companies including Micro Warehouse; and corporate
resellers including Stream International and Software Spectrum. For
Windows 3.1, ABC FlowCharter 4.0 is also included, providing users with a
cost-effective migration path to Windows 95 or Windows NT. For more
information on Micrografx FlowCharter 7 call 1-800-676-3110.
Micrografx Unveils Latest, Enhanced Web Graphics Solution
New QuickSilver Offers Animation, Added Web Effects for ABC Graphics Suite
Richardson, Texas (November 11, 1996) -- Micrografxr, Inc. (NASDAQ:MGXI), a
global leader in graphics software, announced today the immediate
availability of Micrografx QuickSilverTM 3, the latest version of its
Internet graphics technology. Micrografx QuickSilver 3 now offers added
functionality for users to animate graphics by tying specific object
graphic actions to mouse events and clicks to create standard builds and
looped animations. Micrografx QuickSilver 3 is available immediately for
free and can be downloaded from http://www.micrografx.com/quicksilver.
Designed to be used with ABC Graphics Suite, Micrografx QuickSilver 3
transforms most any Windows or graphics file type into customizable,
interactive graphics for use on Web pages. Micrografx QuickSilver 3 offers
Windowsr metafile support for WMF and EMF file types, enabling users to
include these files inside of Web pages without modification. This broad
support allows users to leverage existing content for use on the Web,
reducing content creation costs and minimizing time spent on page
production.
"Businesses and individuals look to Micrografx to provide the easiest, best
and most full-featured Web graphics solutions for the Internet or corporate
Intranets," said Doug Richard, vice president, global marketing,
Micrografx. "We're delivering unmatched functionality and usability in
Micrografx QuickSilver 3. We've made it almost effortless to create
interactive Web graphics - from a basic animation to cool transitions and
effects."
To showcase just how easy it is to create an interactive Web site with
QuickSilver, Micrografx is sponsoring a Web page design contest called
winthis.com. Aspiring Web page designers can submit their web page entry
by following the instructions at http://www.winthis.com through December
31, 1996. One grand prize winner will begin the new year driving a 1997
Ford Expedition.
All eligible winthis.com entries will be judged by a panel of experts
including editors, online industry pundits and digital artists. The judges
panel includes: Dave Balmer, Cyberculture; Karen Bannan, PC Magazine;
Suzanne Frear, Digital Diner; Laurence Gartel, a pioneer of Computer Art
for over 20 years; Kim Hastreiter, Papermag; Christopher Parr, Cybermad;
Rich Santalesa, NetGuide; Chris Shipley, DEMOLetter; and Anna Tokumoto,
NetGuide Live. Winthis.com entrants can experiment with Micrografx
QuickSilver's latest enhancements, including:
Greater file support - transforms almost any Windows or graphics file type
into an interactive Web graphic;Animation and builds -- turns grouped images on
and off to simulate animation; Support for hit detection in grouped images -
enhances interactivity by allowing objects to react to separate buttons and
controls;Syntax checking - alerts users to input errors resulting in incorrect
commands for particular events; New transitions - adds four additional
transitions (slide top, bottom right and left) bringing the total number of
transitions to 15 for greater graphics display customization and fun; Zoom
panning - permits objects and scenes to be zoomed and panned simultaneously,
meaning multiple levels of detail can be viewed from a single Web page.
Samples of these new features are available at
http://www.micrografx.com/quicksilver.
Micrografx is embracing the Internet as an interactive, dynamic publishing
medium and is utilizing the comprehensive graphics capabilities within the
ABC Graphics Suite as the cornerstone of the company's Internet offerings.
Micrografx QuickSilver 3 extends Internet capabilities to the applications
of the award-winning ABC Graphics Suite, including Microsoft Office 95-
compatible versions of Micrografx DesignerTM, ABC FlowCharterr, Picture
Publisherr, Instant 3DTM and ABC Media ManagerTM. QuickSilver 3 offers
dual compatibility for Netscape Navigator 3.0 and Microsoft Internet
Explorer 3.0, including a plug-in for Netscape Navigator 3.0 and an ActiveX
control for Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.0.
QuickSilver also features ABC WebCharterTM , an innovative technology that
creates high-level views of Web sites inside of ABC FlowCharter, allows Web
site crawling, the creation of multiple chart types inside of ABC
FlowCharter, and offers an easy to use interface wizard. ReadyUseTM Web
content with HTML page templates also allows experienced and novice
Internet users to publish sites quickly by incorporating HTML formatted
sites and pages with backgrounds, interactive graphics and hotlinks. Visual
Basic and JavaScripting samples enable users to create custom scripts to
drive object graphics from Designer inside of Web pages.
Availability and Pricing
The Micrografx QuickSilver 3 can be immediately downloaded for free at.
http://www.micrografx.com/quicksilver, or may be ordered on CD-ROM for $10
shipping and handling by calling (800) 640-2049.
Micrografx is the global leader in developing and marketing graphics
software which enhances visual communication and empowers creative
expression. Founded in 1982, Micrografx has become a leading software
publisher by responding quickly to customer and worldwide market needs.
The company's U.S. operations are based in Richardson, Texas, with
development offices located in San Francisco and Los Angeles.
International subsidiaries are located in Canada, the United Kingdom,
France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Australia and Japan. For more
information about Micrografx, its award-winning graphics software and
content for creative expression, visit the Micrografx Web site at
www.micrografx.com.
Micrografx Announces Executive Appointments
Paul Grayson to Leave Micrografx
Richardson, Texas (December 5, 1996) - Micrografxr, Inc. (NASDAQ: MGXI), a
global leader in graphics software, today announced it has appointed
Douglas Richard as interim president, Joseph Kupke as interim Chairman of
the Board, and has promoted Robert Gutekunst to vice president of
development and development services. Richard currently serves as vice
president of marketing for the company. Kupke, one of the original
founders of Micrografx, served previously as executive vice president and
chief financial officer and also served on the board both during and after
his employment with the company. The company today also announced that
Micrografx Chairman J. Paul Grayson has resigned from all offices of the
company effective January 1, 1997 to pursue other business opportunities
and his philanthropic interests.
A formal management committee has been established consisting of Richard,
Kupke and Larry Morris, chief financial officer. The company recently
began a search for a new chief executive officer and will continue this
effort.
"I have made the decision to turn over my responsibilities to this capable
management team in order to pursue other business opportunities and
philanthropic endeavors via the J. Paul Grayson Charitable Foundation and
with the Micrografx Chili for Children Foundation," said Grayson. "I am
very proud of Micrografx's accomplishments and am convinced that this
management team will continue the company's success as a world leader in
both the consumer and business software arenas. My confidence in this team
makes me very comfortable with my decision to leave Micrografx," he said.
Kupke observed, "Paul founded the company in 1982 and propelled Micrografx
forward as a pioneer in Windowsr graphics. Over the past 14 years, he has
dedicated tremendous effort in establishing Micrografx as the 26th largest
software company in the world (Softletter, April 11, 1996)," Kupke said.
"We wish Paul the very best as he leaves to focus on altruistic ventures."
As interim president, Doug Richard will be responsible for the business
operations of Micrografx including all sales, marketing, product
management, development and development services functions worldwide.
Richard joined Micrografx as vice president of marketing in April of 1996
following the acquisition of Visual Software, a company he founded in 1991.
A successful entrepreneur with more than 11 years of experience in the
technology industry, Richard in 1985 founded the largest CAD systems
integrator in California, and in 1991 founded Visual Software. He
graduated with a law degree from the University of California at Los
Angeles and earned a bachelor of science degree from the University of
California at Berkeley.
Gutekunst, in his new position, will be responsible for the day-to-day
management of the company's on-going software development plans, providing
Micrografx the unified leadership necessary to refine its development model
to meet the demands of an Internet-driven software development cycle.
Gutekunst joined Micrografx in 1988 and has served in a number of
development positions including vice president of product development,
managing the overall research, development and design of new and existing
products. He earned a bachelor of arts degree in computer science from the
University of Texas at Austin.
About Micrografx
Micrografx is the global leader in developing and marketing graphics
software which enhances visual communication and empowers creative
expression. Founded in 1982, Micrografx has become a leading software
publisher by responding quickly to customer and worldwide market needs.
The company's U.S. operations are based in Richardson, Texas, with
development offices located in San Francisco and Los Angeles.
International subsidiaries are located in Canada, the United Kingdom,
France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Australia and Japan. For more
information on Micrografx, its award-winning graphics software and content
for creative expression, visit the Micrografx home page at
http://www.micrografx.com.
All products mentioned are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective companies.
Kids Computing Corner
Frank Sereno, Editor
fsereno@streport.com
The Kids' Computing Corner
Computer news and software reviews
from a parent's point of view
In the News
Hi there gang! This week's news is that The Kids' Computing Corner is
holding another drawing to give away a program. We have a copy of the
Macintosh version of Titanic: An Adventure Out of Time that will be awarded
to a lucky winner via a random drawing. Entries will be accepted through
12:01am Thursday, February 20 and the winner will be announced in the
February 21 edition of the Silicon Times Report. To enter, all you need to
do is send an e-mail to me with the word Titanic in either the message body
or the subject header. My e-mail addresses are fsereno@streport.com and
fsereno@matrix.uti.com. The winner will be notified by e-mail and the
prize will be shipped as soon as I have the winner's address. The staff of
STR Publishing is not eligible for this contest.
Just so that everyone knows, the winner won't have to pay shipping costs or
have any obligations to STR or GTE. The prize is totally free. Send your
entries today!
Apologies Again
Due to computer problems, the review of Microsoft's The Magic School Bus
Explores in the Age of Dinosaurs will not be in this week's issue of the
magazine. I built a new system this week that is crashing constantly while
running Windows 95 so I'll have to sort out that problem. On another
system, the mouse keeps going to the upper left portion of the screen when
I try to run Dinosaurs. So I'm trying to get technical assistance from the
good people at Microsoft and hopefully I can get the program to run on one
or both systems.
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the line" As the major Online Services move away from ASCII.. So shall
STReport. All in the name of progress and improved readability. The
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issue is running approximately 15 to 1 over the ASCII edition. Besides,
STReport will not be caught in the old, worn out "downward compatibility
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rmariano@streport.com
STReport International Online Magazine
Gaming Hotwire STR Feature - The World of Contemporary Gaming
Featuring the Action from;
"Video Gaming Central" on CompuServe
Thrustmaster STR Infofile
Thrustmaster USB Joystick
Hillsboro, Oregon, January 15, 1997 -- ThrustMaster, Inc. (NASDAQ: TMSR) a
leading manufacturer of game controllers for PC-based entertainment
announced today the release of one of the first joysticks to support the
Universal Serial Bus (USB). ThrustMaster, whose diversified product line
leads the industry in realistic game simulation, is now paving the way in
USB flight simulation with the TOP GUN USB joystick, based on the 1986
Paramount Pictures film starring Tom Cruise. TOP GUN USB will be shipping
to OEM accounts in the first quarter of 1997.
The TOP GUN USB joystick is modeled after the grip found in the F-4 Phantom
fighter jet. It offers a patented 4-way hat switch, three beveled buttons
and a quick action trigger, taking advantage of the standard ThrustMaster
set-up found in nearly all game software. In addition, the TOP GUN USB
joystick features a weighted base for stability, precise desktop control
and a realistic feel. The TOP GUN USB joystick will be fully programmable
through USB, making it the lowest-priced programmable joystick ever offered
by ThrustMaster.
By developing and manufacturing one of the first USB joysticks,
ThrustMaster has demonstrated its commitment to USB technology as well as
ensuring universal plug and play capabilities for all users. USB
technology - a collaborative development effort by Compaq, Digital
Equipment Corporation, IBM PC Company, Intel, Microsoft, NEC and Northern
Telecom - was designed to bring all peripheral connectivity outside the
computer92s central processing unit. Known as "hot attach", this new
connection standard streamlines computer peripheral installation by
allowing multiple devices to be instantly detected and configured when
plugged into the USB ports. Initially, Microsoft Windows 95AE and Windows
NT will support devices in the "USB Human Input Devices" category, which
includes gaming devices, keyboards and mice. This will ensure TOP GUN USB
is one of the first USB-supported peripherals on the market.
ThrustMaster designs, develops, manufactures and markets gaming
peripherals.
After establishing itself as the leader in flight game controllers in the
early 90's, then capturing the market in the driving wheel category,
ThrustMaster's broad product line includes action, adventure, sports and
arcade peripherals. Known throughout the computer entertainment industry
for producing the most realistic and best functioning gaming controllers,
ThrustMaster continues to be a leader in the development of innovative
peripherals. For more information, please call (503) 615-3237 or view the
ThrustMaster Web site at http://www.thrustmaster.com.
TOP GUN TM, AE & A9 1996 Paramount Pictures. All Rights Reserved. TOP GUN
is licensed through Viacom Consumer Products. Viacom Consumer Products
merchandises properties on behalf of Paramount Pictures, Paramount
Television and Simon & Schuster as well as third-part properties.
Viacom Consumer Products, a unit of Viacom Entertainment Group, is a
division of Viacom Inc. WCS is a trademark of ThrustMaster, Inc. All other
trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Classics & Entertainment Section
Editor Dana P. Jacobson
dpj@streport.com
>From the Atari Editor's Desk "Saying it like it is!"
Super Bowl Weekend!! Well, I wouldn't normally mention it in these pages,
but since I do live in Boston, I have to be rooting for the Patriots!
Naturally, they're underdogs - it seems I'm always supporting the "teams"
that aren't favored to win (Atari, for another!).
Not much happening these days in the news. However, this doesn't seem to
bother me as I'll always try to generate some things. Something that I've
been thinking about, and ironically mentioned to me a few days ago by
fellow staffer, Frank Sereno, is to put together an accurate and updated
listing of Atari user groups, bulletin boards, Web sites, and other sources
of Atari support.
Back in the "good ole days" I can remember having tons of BBS numbers to
call (and I had the phone bills to prove it!). As I look in some of my BBS
listings, it's amazing how so many of these boards are but a memory these
days. I miss calling a BBS and enjoying the individual "flavor" of each
board that I visited. So, in order to be able to re-enjoy that experience,
I have to find out where all the boards are. I thought I'd start here, and
shortly afterward, spread out to the online community (the Internet and
Usenet) to solicit "entries" so I can put together a list and keep it
maintained as best as possible (maybe make it available on the STReport Web
page and others).
Also, the same is true for user groups. I know there can't be all that
many still active these days, but many people just aren't aware of them.
So, I see a need to have a list of these groups as well.
Web sites? Sure, there are many of them that support Atari topics. Where
are they is anybody's guess (other than some of the "big" ones). May as
well organize that list too! <g> I think all of these lists should include
all types of Atari products: the computers from the 8-bits to the Falcon
and clones, the Portfolio, game consoles, magazines, etc.
So, what can you do? Send me e-mail with your lists of sites, whether
it/they be Web sites, Usenet addresses, BBSs, user groups, or whatever.
Provide as much info about each entry as possible. If I need more info,
I'll ask. Eventually, I'll make available a text "form" and post it
wherever possible so more people will see it. In the meantime, send me any
info that you feel is relevant, via e-mail at "dpj@delphi.com" or
"71051.3327@compuserve.com".
If you have my GEnie address, don't use it as I'm no longer a member there.
I'll be adding my BBS and user group info to my own Web page shortly, so
you'll also be able to e-mail me via that method. I'll post those details
at a later time.
So, if you'd like to see a comprehensive list, please help to provide the
relevant info. I know there have been other lists attempted in the past,
by various sources. Those have seemed to disappear for one reason or
another. Let's see what we can do to increase the Atari online experience
for everyone using Atari computers!
Until next time...
JTS Corporation Completes $25 Million Private Financing
SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- JTS Corporation (AMEX: JTS) today
announced the completion of a $25 million private financing involving the
sales of its Series C Convertible Preferred Stock. The Series C Preferred
shares are non-voting and have no annual dividend. They are convertible
into JTS' common stock at the lower of $3.6125 or dependent upon certain
conditions, at or below market.
Tom Mitchell, President and Chief Executive Officer of JTS Corporation (the
"Company"), commented on the financing, "The completion of this private
placement provides us with adequate equity financing to reach our targeted
production schedules. We now believe that having strengthened our balance
sheet and made significant progress in building our business, we will be
able to pursue more traditional types of debt financing to satisfy any
future funding needs."
"I am very pleased with the progress we have made over the last nine months
having produced just 8,000 drives per week in Q2, fiscal 1997 and 17,000
drives per week in Q3, fiscal 1997," added Mitchell. "We are currently
producing approximately 40,000 drives per week up from 25,000 drives per
week at the beginning of Q4. We had originally projected production of
50,000 units per week by the end of our fiscal 1997, ending February 2,
1997. However, due to a number of small production problems which have
since been resolved, we will not reach these production levels until
sometime in Q1 fiscal 1998, ending May 4, 1997.
"We plan to announce our fourth fiscal quarter results at the end of
February. We anticipate that in spite of the previous production problems,
we will still be able to nearly double our Q4 revenues versus Q3 revenues.
With production issues now resolved, the Company expects to be able to ship
approximately $100 million in hard drives in the first quarter of fiscal
1998, and we expect to turn profitable about that time. Furthermore, we
expect to sequentially grow our unit volumes and revenues throughout fiscal
1998."
During the quarter, JTS began to ramp the industry's first ultra slim 1GB
3.0-inch hard disk drive, which is currently being shipped to a major
domestic brand name OEM customer. The Company also introduced three new
3.0-inch hard drives: the Nordic 1.4GB, 1.6GB and 2.0GB disk drives for the
high-end portable market. The Company expects to ship the 1.4GB and 1.6GB
drives in volume early in the first quarter of fiscal 1998.
Gaming Section
Net Yaroze FAQ!
Iron Soldier 2 Next!
Sega Merges With Bandai!
Gretzky!
Tetris Re-Vitalized!
And More!
>From the Editor's Controller - Playin' it like it is!
Well, the big news this week is that Sega has merged with Bandai, Japan's
largest toymaker. This merger should be interesting to watch in the coming
months.
Lots of interesting items happening - mostly new game announcements for the
various console platforms. We have a FAQ file dealing with the Net Yaroze,
for the PlayStation - intriguing if you've an interest in developing
console games; or, if you like to keep up with the technology.
Still no packages from Telegames, which is quite disappointing. I'll
probably make a couple of more attempts to check on the "progress" of
review copies of Towers II and Breakout 2000. If I don't hear anything
from those, we'll write them off as totally uninterested. It never ceases
to amaze me...
Until next time...
Industry News STR Game Console NewsFile - The Latest Gaming News!
Sega & Bandai To Merge
TOKYO, JAPAN, 1997 JAN 23 (Newsbytes) -- By Martyn Williams. Electronic
entertainment giant Sega Enterprises Ltd. [TOKYO:7964] and Japan's largest
toy maker, Bandai Co., [TOKYO:7967] have announced they will merge on
October 1st to become Sega Bandai Ltd. The merger will create a "worldwide
high technology company that produces both hardware and software for the
home and office," said officials of the companies today.
The merger has been approved by the boards of both companies. Under the
terms of the merger, announced at the Tokyo Stock Exchange, one share of
Bandai stock will be worth 0.76 shares of Sega Enterprises. The new company
will have consolidated revenues of 600 billion yen ($5.03 billion). On the
Tokyo Stock Exchange shares in Sega ended the day down 60 at 3660 yen and
Bandai closed up 200 at 2560.
"The merger will permit us to focus more energy on expanding business
promotion in all markets from toddlers to adults," said a company statement
from Bandai. It was also announced that Bandai's Makota Yamashina will be
president of the new company and Sega's Isao Ohkawa will be chairman, the
same position he holds now.
Sony President Nobuyuki Idei, whose company battles Sega in the home video
game market, was quoted by Reuter as saying, "I never expected such a
combination of the two companies, so I'm very surprised." For the two
companies, the merger comes at a time when they are both beginning to feel
hard times. Sega is still he leader in commercial video games, the type
found in games centers, but has lost its second place in the home market.
Strong competition from Sony's PlayStation and Nintendo's 64 machines have
pushed it into third place.
Bandai, while still maintaining its position as Japan's top toy maker, is
in a market that is, ironically, suffering from the increased time children
are playing video games and using the Internet. Bandai is expected to post
a loss this year for the first time in its history.
That loss is expected to be around 2 billion yen (US$16.78 million).
Sega is best known for its computer video game software and hardware. The
company's Saturn and MegaDrive games systems have sold millions of units
around the world, but its real strength lies in the video games installed
in games centers. It has recently moved into the digital camera sector and
markets the "Digio" digital still camera.
In Japan, the company also runs a karaoke network and is manufacturer of
"Print Club," a video game-like machine that takes a user's picture and
prints them out small stickers with phrases and cartoons. The system has
proved the biggest hit of 1996 with Japanese high-school girls. Sega
started life in 1960, ten years after Bandai, as an importer of American
jukeboxes and entered the computer software market in the 1980s by working
with CSK Corporation, now a 20 percent shareholder.
Bandai is best known for its "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers," "Sailor Moon,"
"Dragon Ball," "Ultraman," and "Godzilla" toys, but also manufacturers
electronic devices. Bandai's American subsidiary, Bandai Digital
Entertainment Corp., recently developed an Internet terminal device. The
unit, named Pippin AtMark in Japan and World in the United
States, allows consumers to surf the Web and have access to electronic-mail
on a television screen. Sega also produces an additional unit for its
Saturn video system that allows users to browse and access the Internet.
Net Yaroze FAQ
V 1.0 (970117)
(c)1997 Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA)
Compiled by:
Bill Rehbock, John Phua, Don Thomas,
Brian Dawson, Greg LaBrec, Mike Fulton,
Peter Alau, Sarah Lodge and Molly Smith.
Information herein applies to North America only. Any tradenames used
within this document are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
owning companies.
NOTE:
MOST COMMON QUESTION OF ALL...
How do I register my interest in Net Yaroze?
E-Mail:
YAROZEINFO_SCEA@INTERACTIVE.SONY.COM
(U.S. and Canada only)
PS_YAROZE@INTERACTIVE.SONY.COM
(All of Europe and Australia including France, Germany, Norway, Switzerland
and U.K.)
NY-INFO@SCEI.CO.JP
(Japan)
Sections
I. HOW, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE
II. COST, PAYMENTS, CONDITIONS
III. TECHNICAL
IV. COMPLETED WORK
V. WHERE DO I SIGN-UP?
I. HOW, WHAT, WHEN, WHERE
Q. What does Net Yaroze mean? How is it pronounced?
A. YAROZE (yarozei), or phonetically (ya row zey) vb. means "let's do it
together" or "let's work together" in Japanese origin. The term embraces
the Net Yaroze concept of getting members to work together and share their
work to reach meaningful objectives in what they do.
Q. When will Net Yaroze be available in the U.S. and Canada?
A. Net Yaroze is currently targeted for release within the U.S. and Canada
by late March 1997. It is possible this may change. Interested persons
should make certain they register their interest so that they are
automatically updated when news becomes available.
Q. Is Net Yaroze planned for Mexico?
A. We want to support and service programmers in Mexico, however,plans to
do so are not in place at this time.
Q. Can I license the U.S. version of Net Yaroze to be shipped outside of
the U.S. or Canada?
A. Sony Computer Entertainment America will not accept international
transactions. Interested persons outside of North America will be referred
to other Sony facilities for support if they exist for that region. See the
answer to the most popular question of all at the top of this document.
Q. What is the difference between Net Yaroze and a professional developers'
program?
A. SCEA's professional developers' program is much more intensive. The
commercial package includes higher level hardware/software tools, hardware
with greater RAM capacity, an in-depth array of on-site assistance and
on-call technical help.
Q. How will the Net Yaroze system differ from the Japanese version?
A. All the basic elements provided in the Net Yaroze program are universal
with the exception of translated text within support materials and the
Internet address where members go for support.
Q. Hardware-wise, how is the Net Yaroze unit different from the North
American PlayStation which is sold in stores?
A. The retail (grey) North American PlayStation hardware unit can only read
commercially developed PlayStation game titles from licensed PlayStation
developers and publishers. The Yaroze hardware offers no territorial
lock-out, which means that that it can play both PAL (Europe) and NTSC
(Japan, U.S.) PlayStation discs. However, the user will need a
multi-format TV to do this properly.
Q. Will Net Yaroze be available in stores?
A. Net Yaroze is an extension of the services provided by SEA's Research &
Development department. In many ways, Net Yaroze members become a part of
SCEA's R&D activities. This unique relationship with Sony on a developer
level will not be available from any independent retailer to insure members
get support direct from SCEA and no where else. In short, Net Yaroze is not
a commercial product and will not be available from retailers.
Q. Where can I get support while a member of Net Yaroze?
A. Net Yaroze integrates a World Wide Web Site with support areas, file
download areas, message areas and more. No live telephone support is
available as part of the Net Yaroze program. Access to the Web Site is
limited to one year and renewable for a modest fee.
Q. I have a Web Site and want to interview someone about Net Yaroze. Who
should I contact?
A. Contact Molly Smith by e-mail at:
Molly_Smith@Interactive.Sony.COM
Q. May I post this FAQ file on my web site?
A. This document may be redistributed in whole in any environment that is
supportive of Net Yaroze and Sony Computer Entertainment America.
II. COST, PAYMENTS, CONDITIONS
Q. How much does Net Yaroze cost?
A. Net Yaroze is anticipated to be made available for under $1,000 in North
America plus applicable taxes and shipping. Other costs may be associated
to using Net Yaroze if the developer does not have other tools that may be
required such as a personal computer or, perhaps, a more robust C compiler
than the one provided.
Q. Can I save any money if I already own a PlayStation?
A. The Net Yaroze black PlayStation is different from those sold in stores.
It is not interchangeable for development purposes.
Q. Can I purchase more than one Net Yaroze PlayStation?
A. The unique PlayStation designed for the Net Yaroze program is not for
sale. It is only available as a licensed tool from Sony Computer
Entertainment America. It is possible for one individual to obtain more
than one for unique applications, however each one must be registered
separately and all terms and fees remain the same for each.
Q. Can I purchase the Net Yaroze PlayStation for resale?
A. Net Yaroze is a developers network available and serviced directly by
Sony Computer Entertainment America. It will not be licensed to any party
for the purpose of resale.
Q. So, I can only sign-up for NetYaroze from Sony Computer Entertainment
America?
A. Within the United States and Canada, yes. Members will demand and expect
support tools which can only be made available under license directly from
SCEA.
Q. Why does Net Yaroze cost as much as it does?
A. Net Yaroze is an economical version of professional packages which are
licensed for many, many thousands of dollars. Net Yaroze includes all the
essential elements of a comprehensive development package plus support
tools have been streamlined to bring the price down to a level that
dedicated enthusiasts and aspiring developers can afford. Net Yaroze is not
a toy. It should be considered only by those people wishing to seriously
engage in software development projects.
Q. Will SCEA accept planned payments?
A. Sony Computer Entertainment America will only ship Net Yaroze products
when paid in full. SCEA will not have a financing program available.
Q. What forms of payment will SCEA accept?
A. It is anticipated that American Express, Discover, Visa and MasterCard
may be used to pay the required licensing fees. Of course, money orders and
cashier checks are always welcome.
Q. Is Net Yaroze refundable if I don't like it?
A. Net Yaroze is not a mass market consumer item and will not be available
on any trial basis. SCEA will stand behind every unit from a manufacturing
point of view, honoring any warranty (90 days) issue that may arise. On
the other hand, Net Yaroze is a license. The black PlayStation is just one
small part of the entire agreement to share information. It is not
refundable and members are held accountable for their agreement to protect
proprietay information shared with them. Those interested in Net Yaroze
should consider their investment carefully in advance.
III. TECHNICAL
Q. What else is required to develop software using Net Yaroze?
A. A 486 DX2 66MHz IBM-compatible personal computer with one or more serial
ports, 28.8 bps speed modem, an Internet connection, 2X CD-ROM, 10MB of
hard disk space, 4MB of RAM, mouse and an SVGA monitor is minimally
required for Net Yaroze. In addition, members will need to be familiar with
the operation of such a computer as well as a basic background using the C
programming language and the ability to access the Internet and the World
Wide Web. SCEA does not offer any training for using a computer or the use
of the programming language.
Q. Why 66MHz? How about on slower systems?
A. We recommend a minimum of 66MHz for optimum performance. Choosing any
configuration other than the minimums recommended are at the developer's
risk.
Q. Can I use the Yaroze system on my Macintosh?
A. Yes. The Net Yaroze system can run on an Apple Macintosh with the aid of
a complete development environment called Code Warrior designed by
Metroworks Software. More information will become available soon.
Q. Can I use international CDs on a Net Yaroze PlayStation?
A. One of the "bonus" features of the black Net Yaroze PlayStation is its
ability to play software distributed anywhere in the world.
Q. Can anyone with a PlayStation play the games I write?
A. Net Yaroze applications are only capable of being executed by other Net
Yaroze members who have a black developers' PlayStation; however, the use
of Net Yaroze applications will be strictly subject to the terms of a
license agreement. It will not be possible to develop, publish and
distribute software created by Net Yaroze by circumventing SCEA's
established quality guidelines applicable to commercial products that are
sold through retailers.
Q. How long does it take for a competent person to learn "C" as a
programming language?
A. That's very similar to asking how long it may take to learn to speak
French (unless you already know it). It depends on your background, how
good you want to be, how much time per day you allocate to the learning
process and what learning skills you have. Please do not purchase Net
Yaroze to learn C You can learn the same C on a PC then consider applying
your skills to dedicated platforms at a later time. There are no components
of the Net Yaroze package to teach the use of C.
Q. Why is "C" the development language on Net Yaroze instead of C++?
A. C++ may be used, however, C is usually more efficient in a game
programming environment where active programming space may be an important
issue.
Q. Is it true that the code for each Net Yaroze program developed cannot be
greater than 3.5 MB?
A. Primary RAM in Net Yaroze is 2 megabyte PLUS there are secondary RAM
locations that grant programmers up to 3.5 megabyte of working space. Game
code, graphics, audio samples and run-time libraries are limited to 3.5
megabyte because Net Yaroze drivers must be installed. There are many
commercial PlayStation titles that are entirely RAM-resident and could have
been developed with Net Yaroze while using the CD strictly to spool Red
Book audio.
Creative developers apply compression and run-time techniques that
accomplish virtually anything they strive for. Again, Net Yaroze can be
used as a professional tool, but it is not intended to be as robust as much
more expensive machines.
Q. How can Net Yaroze programs be made to run on a normal (grey)
PlayStation?
A. Net Yaroze participants can share their work with other Net Yaroze
members throughout the world by posting that work on SCEA's designated
server, Web Site or any other location authorized by SCEA. The standard
consumer PlayStation is not designed to run Net Yaroze titles directly. All
commercially available PlayStation titles are developed by "licensed
developrs" and published by "licensed publishers" using a specialized
professional PlayStation development environment. Of course, Net Yaroze
members can eventually apply to become a fully licensed commercial
developer at later time.
Q. What kind of software can I develop that is most likely to be published
commercially?
A. This is hard to answer. On one hand, there seem to be enough baseball
games already. On the other hand someone will create a new baseball game
like none other before. Successful games seem to be those that offer a high
degree of immersion and virtual world interaction. Sports games need to be
fast and lifelike. Fantasy and arcade games need to be visually stunning
and full of surprises. Some developers start with a remake of an old
favorite and hope they can acquire a license later or change it enough to
be different such as Doom II or Duke Nuke 'em. Other developers begin with
a premise that some completely new idea is marketable such as Tetris, Klax
or Zoop.
Q. Is the link cable supported in hardware and software?
A. There are two links that may be referred to by this question. There is
the serial link to the PC for the Net Yaroze package and there is the game
link cable intended for head-to-head gaming between two different
PlayStations. In either case, Net Yaroze does not include library functions
to directly address either link described above, but determined Net Yaroze
members may likely hack out solutions if they feel their applications would
benefit.
Q. Can I develop a networked application with the Yaroze?
A. Creative and experienced developers will accomplish many things using
Net Yaroze tools. Many things are possible. That's what makes a talented
developer valuable.
Q. We are mainly interested in applications of the Yaroze outside of games,
mostly visualization applications using this technology. Is there any
restriction on development outside of games?
A. We hope the Net Yaroze program will allow a lot of freedom in creativity
in regard to what content will be created. SCEA does not place restrictions
on Net Yaroze members as to what kind of applications to develop.
Q. Does Net Yaroze interface with any memory cards?
A. The Net Yaroze package includes the tools needed to interface with
PlayStation compatible Memory Cards which are used in the slots above the
controller ports just as they are on the commercial versions of the game
system.
Q. Can we access the CD to play audio and/or video?
A. During the boot-up of Net Yaroze, a special CD is required on the
PlayStation that contains information for the system. After boot-up, the
PlayStation CD may be used to play Red Book audio from a standard audio CD.
It may be possible to control the CD-ROM on the PC, however, it would e up
to the developer to devise such protocols if practical.
IV. COMPLETED WORK
Q. Who owns the rights to software developed written using the Net Yaroze
system?
A. The original author retains legal ownership of all source code that he
or she creates as part of Net Yaroze except as protected by applicable
copyright law. For instance, users who create copies of Crash Bandicoot or
Asteroids cannot assume rights to that work. Individual authors are legally
responsible for the work in terms of infringement of copyright, etc..
In particular, source code can be freely shared among Net Yaroze members as
desired by its creators -- in accordance with their agreement with SCEA.
Indeed, a cornerstone of Net Yaroze is the concept of members sharing their
work and ideas, and participating in joint projects. Note that distributed
code through the Net Yaroze program can only be downloaded by other Net
Yaroze members throughout the world. To formally publish software for all
PlayStation owners, Net Yaroze members will need to look at becoming
licensed as commercial developers.
Q. Will my software be published commercially?
A. We hope to publish commercial products containing software developed
through the Net Yaroze program; statiscally, however, it is not very likely
that any one project will be published.
Even a great number of projects which begin as commercial projects never
make it to store shelves. It would be misleading to promise a great
likelihood, but many of the "big guys" do have modest beginnings. Bear in
mind that commercial software must be compelling an not infringent on
anyone else's copyrights.
Q. Is there any interest by Sony in working with companies to develop
specific applications?
A. SCEA also offers a professional developer program. Serious developers
should consider whether a hobbyist grade package really fits their needs.
SCEA will not be looking to partner with development programs originating
from the Net Yaroze program. When commercial grade work evolves from Net
Yaroze members, SCEA will counsel with the developer on an individual
basis.
Q. Where should I start if I'm not a programmer?
A. If you are not presently a programmer, Net Yaroze will probably not be
for you right away. The best thing to do would be to purchase some books on
programming and a BASIC or C programming package for development on the
computer. You may wish to look into some local college courses that may be
offered.
V. WHERE DO I SIGN-UP?
Q. Where can I go for more information?
A. People interested in Net Yaroze can register their interest by e-mailing
their name, address, phone number and email address to:
YAROZEINFO_SCEA@INTERACTIVE.SONY.COM
Sony Computer Entertainment America is also developing a Web Site in which
users can obtain more information about Net Yaroze. The address of this
site will be announced soon. See the top of this document for registering
interest in other parts of the world.
Tetris Is Back, Smaller Than Ever
TOKYO, JAPAN, 1997 JAN 21 (Newsbytes) -- By Martyn Williams. Remember
Tetris, the Russian authored computer game involving descending blocks made
famous by Nintendo's GameBoy? A low-cost pager-sized version of the game
was introduced to Japan two years ago and, with current sales running at
over 100,000 a month, is the latest Japanese craze to be exported to the
world market. As with many products in Japan, the game first became a hit
among high-school girls and soon sales began spreading to electronics and
general stores nationwide. Tetris Jr., as the game is named, is about the
size of a pager and attaches to a key-chain and is now commonly seen in the
hands of businessmen on commuter trains.
Sales were so good in 1996 that Dentsu Inc., the world's largest
advertising agency, named it one of its "1996 Hit Products In Japan."
Sales are said to be over 100,000 units per month. The game typically costs
just less than 1,000 yen ($8.49). With such strong sales and broad
appeal, it is no surprise that the game is soon to be marketed around the
world. San Francisco-based Blue Planet Software said it is marketing Tetris
Jr. across the United States and, in the future, internationally, and hopes
for sales in the millions to be achieved in the near future. The American
version of Tetris Jr. will be identical to the Japanese version and priced
as such, just under $10.
Gretzky Scores $25 Million for Nintendo 64
CORSICANA, TEXAS (Jan. 20) BUSINESS WIRE -Jan. 20, 1997--Midway(R) Home
Entertainment Inc. announced today that its action packed 3-D video game
The NHLPA(TM) & NHL(R) Present Wayne Gretzky's 3-D Hockey(TM) is the top
selling sports title for the Nintendo 64. This 3-on-3 plus goalie, fast
action thriller stars hockey legend Wayne Gretzky and features the NHLPA &
NHL licenses. Released by Midway for home play exclusively for the
Nintendo 64, Wayne Gretzky's 3-D Hockey has sold an astonishing $25 million
at retail since its Nov. 15, 1996 launch. Through the end of December,
Nintendo has sold 1.7 million units of Nintendo 64 hardware at retail in
the United States alone. The success of Wayne Gretzky's 3-D hockey
reflects the increasing popularity of hockey and the heightened profile of
the NHL.
According to Gretzky, "It's amazing how much fun my kids have playing the
game, but even more exciting to me is the fact that this game helps
increase awareness of the NHL and hockey in general. It's a direct benefit
to everyone involved. I just hope to someday beat my kids at the game!"
Currently on exhibition at the Pinnacle NHL FANtasy during the NHL All-Star
sports title released for the Nintendo 64. Midway is currently the only
3rd party licensee offering software titles for the Nintendo 64 having also
released Mortal Kombat(R) Trilogy late last year and NBA(R) HANGTIME(TM)
earlier this week. Wayne Gretzky's 3-D Hockey was created by utilizing
state-of-the-art motion capture video, 3-D animation, and texture mapping
for an ultra-realistic sports gaming experience. All-time NHL scoring
leader and four time Stanley Cup champion Gretzky was personally involved
in the design and mechanics of the game. Gretzky's own style has been
digitized to reflect real skating motions and competitive hockey moves.
Wayne Gretzky's 3-D Hockey presents players with a realistic NHL hockey
experience.
Battle Arena Toshinden 3 Serves Up Another
COSTA MESA, CALIF. (Jan. 23) BUSINESS WIRE -Jan. 23,1997-- Playmates
Interactive Entertainment unleashes new characters, new graphics and more
furious gameplay on your PlayStation Sharpen your weapons! May 12,
Playmates Interactive Entertainment (P.I.E.) will unchain Battle Arena
Toshinden 3, the latest installment in one of the hottest series of 3-D
fighting games ever. Set in newly redesigned, enclosed 3-D "fighting
arenas," this new round of the Sony PlayStation mega-hit adds new
characters, new graphics and improved, highly responsive game and control
dynamics to the already-popular 360-degree rotation excitement.
Developed by Tamsoft for Takara Co. Ltd. in Japan, Battle Arena Toshinden 3
brings back the toughest and most ruthless characters that survived Battle
Arena Toshinden 1 and 2 to defend their title, inflict new damage or just
try to get out alive. Over 30 exotic, sexy, bloodthirsty and deadly
characters -- including more than 15 new fighters -- battle it out in the
popular Toshinden series real-life fighting perspective with its different
"camera angles" and its variety of fighting techniques, locales and
opponents. The title will carry an estimated street price of $49.99.
"Battle Arena Toshinden 3 remains true to the series' tradition of setting
the standard for 3-D fighting games," said David Localio, vice president,
sales and marketing, P.I.E. "Without a doubt, this is the best Toshinden
ever developed and a fighting game to be reckoned with." The playing
arena has been completely redesigned and closed in. Now there's nowhere to
run if you're down and out. Players can use the walls, ceilings and floors
to maneuver and pounce on the weak in 10 different, new arenas. And
improved graphics deliver the battle in sucker-punching detail. Battle
Arena Toshinden 3 adds another exciting game to a slate of thrilling
releases from Playmates Interactive. Upcoming releases include the
tire-squealing, motocross racing title VMX Racing; the graphically
enhanced, turn-based space strategy game Into the Void; the
much-anticipated action/strategy game MDK; and the sexy, sophisticated,
third-person isometric view action game Meat Puppet.
Mexico to Make Sony PlayStation
Sony Computer Entertainment Inc., a unit of Sony Corp., will turn to Mexico
by the middle of this year for production of its PlayStation game players.
In Tokyo this morning, the company said it plans to produce about 100,000
units a month. "We are planning to start producing PlayStations at Sony's
new plant at Tijuana, Mexico, this summer," a Sony spokesman told the
Reuter News Service, which notes that currently, the company produces
32-bit PlayStation machines only in Japan and sells them on the Japanese
and overseas markets. Sony, which already makes television sets and other
products in Tijuana, says the new Tijuana plant will start operations in
April and to begin with will mainly poduce video recorders. It will start
producing PlayStation machines in the summer, he said, without elaborating.
T-HQ To Distribute Seven Psygnosis Titles for Sega Saturn
CALABASAS, CALIF. (Jan. 21) BUSINESS WIRE -Jan. 21, 1997-- T-HQ Inc.
(NASDAQ:TOYH) Tuesday announced it has signed an agreement with Sega of
America Inc. and Softbank Corp. to exclusively distribute seven games
developed by Psygnosis for the Sega Saturn video game platform. The
upcoming titles are "Destruction Derby," "Krazy Ivan," "Assault Rigs,"
"Adidas World Power Soccer," "G Police," "Sentient" and "Tenka," and will
be released in the United States and Canada in 1997.
"Destruction Derby," "Krazy Ivan" and "Assault Rigs" are scheduled to
release in the first quarter of 1997. "Adidas World Power Soccer," "G
Police," "Sentient" and "Tenka" are scheduled for release in the second and
third quarters of 1997. "Part of our publishing strategy for the next
generation 32-bit systems is to partner with leading game companies like
Sega, Softbank and Psygnosis who have the highest quality game content,"
said Brian J. Farrell, president and CEO, T-HQ.
"As Sega's installed base continues to grow, we are very pleased to work
with talented third party developers like Psygnosis," said Shoichiro
Irimajiri, chairman and CEO, Sega of America. "T-HQ's strong distribution
power reinforces our commitment to provide game enthusiasts with the best
games possible." "We are truly excited about the prospect of Sega Saturn
owners here in the U.S. and in Canada being able to get their hands on
these popular Psygnosis titles and with T-HQ's excellent track record in
distribution, we are confident our titles will reach these enthusiastic
gamers," said Ian Grieve, Psygnosis.
GREEN BAY PACKERS DEFEAT THE NEW ENGLAND PATRIOT'S
IN INTERACTIVE SUPER BOWL(tm) XXXI SHOWDOWN
Edgar Bennett Beats Terry Glenn In Second Annual "Game Before the Game"(tm)
NEW ORLEANS, Louis., Jan. 22, 1997 -- Two teams met yesterday in New
Orleans to decide the NFL championship. The stands were filled to capacity
with anxious fans, eagerly awaiting their favorite player's appearance.
When it was over, one team was victorious, due entirely to the efforts of
one man. . . and his video game skills.
In the Second Annual Game Before the Game(tm), Edgar Bennett, running back
for the Green Bay Packers led his team to a 22-6 victory over wide receiver
Terry Glenn of the New England Patriots yesterday in New Orleans. The game
was decided as the players tested their video game skills on the Sony
PlayStation(tm) game console and NFL GameDay(tm) '97, in an interactive
preview of Super Bowl(tm) XXXI. Fortunate fans packed the stands to cheer
on the two NFL players, and their surprise guest teammates William
Henderson from the Packers and Devin Wyman from the Patriots, at the
specially constructed PlayStation Arena complete with a 9'x12' Sony
Mobiltron.
"Seeing Terry and Edgar really get into the competitive spirit while
playing NFL GameDay '97 shows just how real the PlayStation game is," said
Jeffrey Fox, senior director, public relations and promotions, Sony
Computer Entertainment America. "The players started out just having fun,
then it turned into a game. . . a game to win. That speaks volumes about
the realism of NFL GameDay '97." The game was won by the single-minded
determination of Bennett, who wanted nothing more than to prove his skills.
That, combined with the plays of NFL GameDay '97, were enough to boost his
team to victory over Glenn and the Patriots. With a kick-return that led to
a fast touchdown, Bennett took the lead right from the start of the game.
Glenn answered back on the very next possession, with a sustained drive
down the field. Reverting to his wide open style of play, Glenn completed
an exhilarating 45-yard pass. At the half, Green Bay had scored twice,
successfully converting both two-point conversions, putting the Packers in
charge 16-6.
In the second half, the Packers came out with a vengeance, capitalizing on
their strong defense, putting a stop to Glenn on two fourth-down conversion
attempts. Bennett sealed his victory with a final "interactive" hand-off in
the game to William Henderson, who also happened to be standing next to him
on the stage at Game Before the Game. Throughout the second half, Glenn
forced Bennett into many third and long situation, selecting defenses that
adjusted to Green Bay's running game on the fly. Despite their fierce
on-screen competitiveness, both players demonstrated great sportsmanship
throughout the game with constant good-natured ribbing and rounds of
high-fives. Even though the Packers were victorious, all four players left
winners.
NFL GameDay '97 is the most realistic football video game available.
Features include: more than 1,500 "real" NFL players; the most
sophisticated artificial intelligence in a video game; real uniform designs
-- both home and away; actual player numbers on the uniforms; and, all 30
NFL teams. NFL GameDay '97 features the motion-capture animation of the
Oakland Raider's All-Pro wide receiver, Tim Brown, for the most accurate
movement in a video football game.
Jaguar Online STR InfoFile - Online Users Growl & Purr!
20-Jan-97 18:52:44
Sb: IS 2: ITS OFFICIAL!!!!
Fm: Curt Vendel 75212,2071
To: ALL
Its official !!!! The other day I spoke with Bruce from B&C
Computervisions, he's just come back that morning from Atari (well, whats
left of Atari; an almost empty warehouse) and John Skruch was finishing the
encryption code and licensing for Telegames so that they can begin selling
Iron Soldier II, the graphics are a step above the first version the music
is a kick ass sound track, special effects are even better than before and
best of all: 25 new levels of game play!!! price: $59.95 Curt
ONLINE WEEKLY STReport OnLine The wires are a hummin'!
PEOPLE... ARE TALKING
On CompuServe
Compiled by Joe Mirando
jmirando@streport.com
Joe will be back next week.. Seems pickin's were mighty slim..
PEOPLE ARE TALKING
EDITORIAL QUICKIES
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all openings with Scotch tape to prevent loss of data.
Data access time may be greatly improved by cutting more holes in the
diskette jacket.
This will provide more simultaneous access points to the disk.
Periodically spray diskettes with insecticide to prevent system bugs from
spreading..."
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