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∂01-Aug-84 1655 INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #80
Received: from USC-ISIB.ARPA by SU-AI.ARPA with TCP; 1 Aug 84 16:53:02 PDT
Date: 1 Aug 1984 15:01:41 PDT
Subject: Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #80
From: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC: ;
Info-IBMPC Digest Wednesday, 1 August 1984 Volume 3 : Issue 80
This Week's Editor: Billy Brackenridge
Today's Topics:
Special Issue on PCjr Enhancements & Educational Software
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 31 Jul 84 08:26:45 PDT
From: IBM Press Release
Subject: Writing to Read & New PCjr Keyboard
IBM OFFERS "WRITING TO READ" EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM,
NEW KEYBOARD, ENHANCEMENTS AND PROGRAMS FOR PCjr
IBM announced today that its "Writing to Read" system for teaching
children to read and write will be available to schools for use
with the IBM PCjr. The company also introduced a new, typewriter-
style keyboard--as well as options and programs that extend the
power and versatility of the PCjr.
"Writing to Read," a complete language laboratory, employs a
unique educational approach designed to teach children how to write
everything they can say and read everything they can write. During
the last two years, more than 22,000 kindergarden and first-grade
pupils in 225 schools around the country participated in evaluating
"Writing to Read."
The new typewriter-style keyboard--now standard with all PCjrs--
has 62 individually contoured, full-travel keys. It has the
convenience of cordless operation using an infrared signal to
communicate with the system unit; an optional connecting cord is
also available. The new keyboard will be available at no charge
to current PCjr owners and to those who purchase a PCjr from
existing supplies. Owners can obtain a new keyboard by bringing
proof of purchase to their Authorized IBM Personal Computer
Dealer.
The new PCjr options, available in August, are:
- A 128K Memory Expansion Attachment that includes an
"electronic diskette" and can be used to boost the
total PCjr user memory, in increments, to 512K;
- A Power Expansion Attachment that provides additional
power for connecting additional options to the computer;
and
- A Speech Attachment--a speech synthesizer that contains
196 built-in words and sounds and also can record speech
on a diskette through a microphone unit. The attachment
works with the "Writing to Read" system.
Two new PCjr cartridge programs, available in the fall, were
also announced. They are:
- IBM PCjr ColorPaint, a drawing program used with a "mouse"
to create full-color, freestyle artwork; and
- Andrew Tobias Managing Your Money* with the IBM PCjr,
an integrated personal financial planning program.
The new keyboard, options and programs will be available in the
United States and Canada. In the U.S., the products will be
available from more than 1,500 Authorized IBM Personal Computer
Dealers and from IBM Product Centers and branch sales offices.
*Trademark of Micro Education Corporation of America
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 31 Jul 84 10:09:17 PDT
From: IBM Press Release
Subject: Detailed Announcement on PCjr Enhancements
TITLE IBM PCJR SPEECH ATTACHMENT
ABSTRACT The IBM PCjr Speech Attachment (#0024) is a speech synthesizer
which supports speech and sound under program control. It may be used
in conjunction with programs such as "Writing to Read" (#0700) to
provide visual and audio education for school or home.
OVERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS
? Installs easily
? Attaches to the side of the system unit
? Includes 196 pre-recorded words and sounds
? Records, stores, and retrieves speech under program control on
diskette
DESCRIPTION
The option uses linear predictive coding (LPC) and
continuously variable slope delta (CVSD) modulation techniques which
support speech and sound under program control. It supports speech
encoding in compressed mode and contains 196 words in ROM. It
includes a microphone input jack for a user-supplied microphone.
Audio output is via the IBM PCjr standard audio channel. Speech data
can be recorded on the IBM PCjr diskette through the user-supplied
microphone using CVSD technique. Pre-recorded speech can be stored on
IBM PCjr cartridges and used under program control.
CUSTINFO PUBLICATIONS
The IBM PCjr Speech Attachment is described in the following:
? Technical Reference Manual Insert
? Option Installation Instructions (Guide to Operation)
? Problem Determination Procedure (Guide to Operation)
? BASIC Programmers Guide Supplement
? Hardware Maintenance and Service Manual Insert
SCHEDULE
Planned availability is September 1984.
TECHINFO TECHNICAL INFORMATION
? Size
- Width -- 32 mm (1.26 in.)
- Depth -- 290 mm (11.42 in.)
- Height -- 96.5 mm (3.80 in.)
? Environment
- Air Temperature
. System ON -- 15.6 to 32.2 degrees C (60 to 90 degrees F)
. System OFF -- 10 to 43 degrees C (50 to 110 degrees F)
- Humidity
. System ON or OFF -- 8% to 80%
? Power
- At +5Vdc, 250mA
- At +12Vdc, 60mA
? Microphone Input
- Miniature phone jack (3.5 mm)
- 600 ohm nominal impedance
? Audio Output Options
- PCjr color display
- RF modulator with TV
- System audio output to external amplifier and speaker
PREREQUISITES: PCjr systems without the Power Expansion Attachment
(#0006) operate with only one of the following side-attached options:
? Parallel Printer Attachment (#0009)
? Speech Attachment (#0024)
? 128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment (#0031)
With the Power Expansion Attachment, up to three of the above
side-attached features, including the IBM PCjr Cluster Attachment
(#0027), can be added.
PLANNING INFORMATION
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: The customer is responsible for unpacking
the Speech Attachment, attaching it to the PCjr system unit, and
verifying correct operations.
PACKAGING: The Speech Attachment is packaged with the Guide to
Operation inserts, and the BASIC Programmers Guide Supplement.
INSTALLABILITY: The Speech Attachment is connected to the right side
of the PCjr system unit with the two screws provided. Power is drawn
from the connector. An optional user-supplied microphone connects
into the back of the Speech Attachment.
ORDERING CHARGES, TERMS, AND CONDITIONS
CHARGES
Feature Purchase
Number Price
IBM PCjr Speech Attachment #0024 $300
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Orders for any quantity of the feature may be taken by NAD/NMD
marketing representatives and processed by the branch office.
Customers with existing Personal Computer Volume Procurement
Amendments (VPA) or special bids will be eligible for discounts for
applicable features installed within the contract period.
IBM Product Centers will accept orders for less than VPA or
special bid quantities. Each product center will receive and process
orders within its trading area.
Single Delivery
Quantity Discount
3 - 9 5%
10 - 19 8%
EDUCATIONAL ALLOWANCE: An educational allowance of 20% is available
to qualifying institutions. A VPA discount is not in addition to the
educational allowance.
CUSTOMER SETUP: The feature is customer setup (CSU). Detailed set up
instructions are included with each feature. Setup is available from
the IBM Customer Service Division at IBM hourly rates and minimums.
WARRANTY PERIOD: One year.
WARRANTY SERVICE: Warranty service for the feature is obtained by
Customer Carry-in Repair (CCR) of the system unit (4860), keyboard,
and the feature, or by IBM On-site Repair (IOR) if the warranty
option is in effect.
Note: All warranty service requests require proof of purchase.
MAINTENANCE SERVICE: Maintenance service for the feature is covered
under the terms and conditions for the system unit on which it is
installed. The system unit maintenance price is not affected by the
addition of the adapter.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The IBM Personal Computing Assistance Center
(PCAC) in Boca Raton will provide telephone assistance to IBM
customers who have signed a Volume Procurement Amendment (VPA) or
special bid. The customer will designate a Technical Support Location
(TSL) which may call the PCAC. Assistance will be available during
the contract period.
TITLE IBM PCJR 4860 ENHANCEMENTS
ABSTRACT A new enhanced version of the 62-key IBM PCjr keyboard,
additional memory features which allow the PCjr to grow to 512Kb, and
additional cluster support are announced for IBM PCjr 4860 Models 4
and 67.
OVERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS
? New 62-key Keyboard
? Power Expansion Attachment
? 128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment
DESCRIPTION
KEYBOARD
The new low-profile, 62-key, detached keyboard for the IBM
PCjr uses full-size keys with the nomenclature printed on the
keytops. This nomenclature is designed to be as close as possible to
that on the current PCjr keyboard. The text, or core nomenclature, is
black on light-color keys. Special characters on these keys are color
coded as they are on the current keyboard. For example, F1 through
F10 are green. The 16 function keys on either side of the core are
pebble gray with the special function printed on the keytop in the
same color as on the current keyboard. The keys are arranged in a
standard typewriter layout with a function key and cursor control
keys added. The keyboard provides the user all the functions of the
IBM Personal Computer 83-key keyboard.
The pressure to depress the keys has been designed to please
both the novice and the experienced user. Two tilt positions provide
for operator comfort. In the normal position, the keyboard has a
5-degree slope; with the legs extended, it has a 12-degree slope. The
keyboard is also suitable for lap operation. A pencil holder and
non-skid feet are part of the keyboard.
The keyboard is battery powered and communicates with the
system unit through an infrared (IR) optical link. Since the keyboard
will function properly when located within 20 feet of and in front of
the IBM PCjr system unit, it is a truly portable hand-held device.
The optional keyboard cable must be used when multiple systems
are being operated in the immediate area to eliminate interference.
POWER EXPANSION ATTACHMENT (#0006)
Attached to the right side of the system unit, this option
provides 20 watts of additional power. It includes a separate
desk-top transformer and power cord, and is required when multiple
options are attached.
PCjr systems with only one of the following side-attached
options do not require the Power Expansion Attachment:
? Parallel Printer Attachment (#0009)
? Speech Attachment (#0024)
? 128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment (#0031) [Requires Model 67s or
Model 4s configured with optional features equivalent to Model
67s]
With the Power Expansion Attachment, up to three of the above
side-attached features, including the Cluster Attachment (#0027), can
be added. The Cluster Attachment requires the Power Expansion
Attachment when the diskette, printer attachment, or memory expansion
attachment is present.
The Internal Modem (#0008) operates with the system unit
internal power supply and does not require the Power Expansion
Attachment.
128KB MEMORY EXPANSION ATTACHMENT (#0031)
This is a side-attached option that increases random access
memory (RAM) by 128Kb. Up to three #0031s can be attached to provide
512Kb of total RAM. Parity is not supported.
The attachment requires the PCjr memory options diskette which
is included and allows DOS to utilize the expanded memory. The
diskette contains programs that enable use of more than 128Kb of
memory. A temporary second diskette drive, resident in memory for
storing programs and files, can also be created, using programs on
this diskette.
CUSTINFO PUBLICATIONS
Using Your IBM PCjr Memory Options, plus updates are provided
for:
? Guide to Operations
? Hardware Maintenance and Service Manual
? Technical Reference Manual
SCHEDULE
Planned availability is September 1984.
TECHINFO TECHNICAL INFORMATION
KEYBOARD
? Dimensions
- length 341.5 mm (13.45 inches)
- depth 168.0 mm (6.61 inches)
- height 29.0 mm (1.12 inches)
? Weight
- 700 grams (25 oz) without batteries
- 784 grams (28 oz) with batteries
POWER EXPANSION ATTACHMENT (#0006)
? Transformer 56-volt-ampere step down type housed separately
? Dimensions
- length 32.0 mm (1.26 inches)
- depth 290.0 mm (11.42 inches)
- height 96.5 mm (3.80 inches)
? Power: 120 volt, 60 Hz, 0.7 amps
? Power Supply: Powered from low voltage separate transformer
outputs:
- 5.0 volts @ 3.0 amps
- 12.0 volts @ 0.33 amps
- -12.0 volts @ 0.03 amps
? Standard raven black power cord.
128K MEMORY EXPANSION (#0031)
? Access Time: 290 nanoseconds
? Memory Cycle Time: 840 nanoseconds
? Dimensions
- length 32.0 mm (1.26 inches)
- depth 290.0 mm (11.42 inches)
- height 96.5 mm (3.80 inches)
SPECIFIED OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
Power Expansion Attachment
? Operating temperature: 15.6-32.2 degrees C (60-90 degrees F)
? Shipping/storage temperature: -40 to 60 degrees C (-40 to 140
degrees F)
? Relative humidity: 8-80% (operating)
? Altitude: to 7000 feet
128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment
? Operating temperature: 15.6-32.2 degrees C (60-90 degrees F)
? Shipping/storage temperature: -40 to 60 degrees C (-40 to 140
degrees F)
? Relative humidity: 8-80% (operating)
? Altitude: to 7000 feet
LIMITATIONS
Keyboard - The IBM PCjr Cordless Keyboard Overlays (#0013)
will not work with the enhanced keyboard.
128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment - Programs that require
Cartridge BASIC, or that are self-starting, or that do not use DOS
2.1 will normally run only in 128Kb memory mode.
SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY
The following IBM software applications run on a PCjr and
utilize memory as indicated.
Up to More than
Application 128Kb 128Kb Requires
Adventure Y N
Adventure in Serenia Y N
Adventure in Math Y N B
Animation Creation Y Y
Arithmetic Games 1 & 2 Y N B,D
Accounting Solutions Y Y D
Executive Solutions Y Y D
Home Solutions Y Y D
Filing Assistant Y Y D
Reporting Assistant Y Y D
Graphing Assistant Y Y D
Writing Assistant Y N D
Basic Compiler Y Y D
BASIC Programming DEV Sys 1.05 Y Y D
Bumble Games Y N B
Bumble Plot Y N B
Casino Games Y N B
Cluster Y Y D
COBOL Compiler N Y M, D
Computers & Communications Y Y D
Crossfire Y N
Diskette Librarian Y N D, B
DisplayWrite 1* Y Y D
Dow Jones Reporter? Y N D, B
EasyWriter 1.1 & 1.15? Y Y D
Fact Track Y N B, D
FileCommand Y Y D
FORTRAN Compiler 2.00 N Y M, D
Gertrude's Puzzles Y N
Gertrude's Secrets Y N
Home Budget jr Y N B
HomeWord* Y N
Juggles' Butterfly* Y N B
Karel the Robot Y N
Learning DOS 2.0 Y Y D
Learning to Program in BASIC Y Y D
LOGO Y Y D
Macro Assembler Y Y D
Mailing List Manager Y N
Mine Shaft Y N
Monster Math Y N B
Mouser Y N
Multiplan? Y Y D
Multiplication Tables Y Y D
PCjr BASIC Y N B
PASCAL Compiler 2.0 N Y M, D
PeachText 1.00? Y Y D
Personal Communications
Manager Y Y
Personal Editor Y Y D
pfs:FILE? Y Y D
pfs:REPORT Y Y D
PlannerCalc Y Y D
Private Tutor Y Y D
Professional Editor Y Y D
Script/PC N Y D
ScubaVenture Y N
Sort 1.00 N Y M, D
Strategy Games Y N B
Time Manager Y N D
Turtle Power Y N
VisiCalc 1.2? Y Y D
Word Proof Y Y
Writing To Read Y N D, B
* These programs include overlays for the cordless keyboard which are
not used with the new PCjr keyboard.
Legend:
B = Basic Cartridge
D = DOS 2.1
M = Memory Disk
? Dow Jones is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Incorporated.
? EasyWriter is a trademark of Information Unlimited Software,
Incorporated.
? Multiplan is a U. S. trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
? PeachText is a trademark of Peachtree Software Incorporated.
? pfs: is a registered trademark of Software Publishing Corporation.
? VisiCalc is a trademark of VisiCorp.
PREREQUISITES
Keyboard - Four user-provided AA size batteries are required
to operate the keyboard without a cord. These batteries should be of
a longlife, leak resistant type. The optional Keyboard Cord (#0012)
is required to operate the keyboard without batteries.
Power Expansion Attachment (#0006) - The Power Expansion
Attachment must be the first side-attached option installed.
128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment (#0031) - At least 128Kb of
internal memory is required. If two or more #0031s are installed, the
Power Expansion Attachment (#0006) is also required. The PCjr must
have a diskette drive or access to a file server on a Personal
Computer Cluster.
CLUSTER CONFIGURATIONS: The Power Expansion Attachment (#0006)
removes previous restrictions relating to the use of the Cluster
Attachment (#0027). With the addition of #0006, PCjr models support
any combination of cluster attachments, a diskette drive, a parallel
printer attachment, and an internal modem. Use of the Cluster
Attachment in a configuration having more than 128Kb of memory
requires a diskette drive, or access to a file server on a Personal
Computer Cluster.
CLUSTER PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS: In "Using Your IBM PCjr Memory
Options," Appendix B contains customized installation instructions
for running the Cluster Program on IBM PCjrs with memory expanded
beyond 128Kb. Note the following additional points:
? Performing a local system reset on IBM PCjrs with expanded memory
allows the greatest number of applications to run.
? If a remote system reset is performed, an updated version of two
Cluster Program files, DC.COM and @#CLUSTR.COM, may be required.
Updated versions of these files are required when the two files
are dated December 30, 1983 on a directory listing of the Cluster
Program ship diskette. The updated files are available through
the technical support location.
IBM Software Products Supported by the Cluster Program on the
IBM PCjr
Runs Runs Uses
Runs from from Data in
from Public Private Private
Software Diskette Volume Volume Volume
Adventures in Math Yes No Yes Yes
Assistant Accounting
Solutions Yes No Yes N/A
Assistant Executive
Solutions Yes No Yes N/A
Assistant Home
Solutions Yes No Yes N/A
Basic Compiler Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cartridge BASIC N/A N/A N/A Yes
COBOL Compiler Yes Yes Yes Yes
Diskette Librarian Yes Yes Yes Yes
DisplayWrite 1 Yes Yes Yes Yes
Dow Jones Reporter Yes No No No
EasyWriter/1.1 Yes No No Yes
EasyWriter/1.15 Yes Yes Yes Yes
FileCommand Yes Yes Yes Yes
Filing Assistant Yes No No Yes
Fixed Disk Organizer Yes No Yes Yes
FORTRAN Compiler/
2.0 Yes Yes Yes Yes
Graphing Assistant Yes No No Yes
Logo Yes Yes Yes Yes
Macro Assembler Yes Yes Yes Yes
Monster Math Yes Yes Yes Yes
Multiplan/1.1 Yes No No Yes
Pascal Compiler/2.0 Yes Yes Yes Yes
PeachText Yes Yes Yes Yes
Personal Communications
Manager Yes Yes Yes Yes
Personal Editor Yes Yes Yes Yes
pfs:FILE/1.05 Yes No No Yes
pfs:REPORT/1.05 Yes No No Yes
PlannerCalc Yes Yes Yes Yes
Professional Editor Yes Yes Yes Yes
Reporting Assistant Yes No No Yes
Script/PC Yes Yes Yes Yes
Sort Yes Yes Yes Yes
VisiCalc/1.2 Yes No No Yes
Word Proof Yes Yes Yes Yes
Notes:
? Adventures in Math - The version of BASICA shipped on the program
diskette cannot be used. Instead, the DOS 2.1 level of BASICA
should be copied to the backup diskette or volume containing the
program. This program is not supported in IBM PCjrs configured
to use greater than 128Kb of memory.
? Assistant Accounting Solutions, Executive Solutions, Home
Solutions - These data files for the Assistant family can be kept
on disk, diskette, the public, or a private volume. If the files
are kept in the public volume, they must be copied to disk,
diskette, or a private volume before use.
? BASIC Compiler - Although the BASIC Compiler is supported, the
programs it compiles may not run with the Cluster Program. A
patch to the BASIC compiler is available from the IBM Personal
Computing Assistance Center. The DOS 2.1 version of LINK cannot
be run on IBM PCjrs in the cluster with less than 256Kb of
memory. The DOS 1.1 version of LINK on the BASIC Compiler
diskette must be used instead.
? Cartridge BASIC - This cartridge program is not supported in IBM
PCjrs configured to use greater than 128Kb of memory.
? COBOL Compiler - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater.
It does not support access to a drive or volume designation
beyond letter D. A patch for the COBOL Compiler that permits
using a drive or volume designation beyond D is available from
the IBM Personal Computing Assistance Center.
? Diskette Librarian - The version of BASIC shipped on the program
diskette cannot be used. Instead, the DOS 2.1 level of BASIC
should be copied to the backup diskette or volume containing the
program. This program is not supported in IBM PCjrs configured
to use greater than 128Kb of memory.
? DisplayWrite 1 - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater.
Running the program from the public volume implies using one
common profile and one set of text defaults at remote stations.
The common profile and text defaults can be updated by one of the
following procedures:
- Update the common profile and text defaults while running
DisplayWrite 1 from the private rather than the public
volume. Then use the cluster Public Volume Manager program
to copy the common profile and text defaults to the public
volume.
- While running DisplayWrite 1, update the common profile and
text defaults in memory only. Upon exit from the program, the
original defaults will be restored.
? Dow Jones Reporter - This program cannot be run at stations that
perform a remote system reset. The program is not supported in
IBM PCjrs configured to use greater than 128Kb of memory.
? EasyWriter/1.1 - This program cannot be run at stations that
perform a remote system reset. The ASSIGN command must be used to
redirect drive B to the private volume.
? EasyWriter/1.15 - This program cannot be run from diskette at
stations that perform a remote system reset. The program can,
however, be run from the public volume or a private volume after
a remote system reset. The ASSIGN command must be used to
redirect drive B to the private volume.
? File Command - No notes.
? Filing Assistant, Graphing Assistant, Reporting Assistant - These
programs cannot be run at stations that perform a remote system
reset.
? Fixed Disk Organizer - This program requires 256Kb memory or
greater. The program must be started with Fixed Disk Organizer's
AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
? FORTRAN Compiler/2.0 - This program requires 256Kb memory or
greater.
? Logo - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater.
? MACRO Assembler - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater.
? Monster Math - The version of BASICA shipped on the program
diskette cannot be used. Instead, the DOS 2.1 level of BASICA
should be copied to the backup diskette or volume containing the
program. This program is not supported in IBM PCjrs configured
to use greater than 128Kb of memory.
? Multiplan/1.1 - No notes.
? Pascal Compiler/2.0 - This program requires 256Kb memory or
greater.
? PeachText - No notes.
? Personal Communications Manager - This program requires 256Kb
memory or greater. The program does not support access to a drive
or volume designation beyond letter D. The reconfigure option
cannot be used when running the program from the public volume.
? Personal Editor - Setup instructions to run the Personal Editor
with the program file, PE.EXE, and the help file, PE.HLP, in the
public volume (and with the profile, PE.PRO, in the private
volume) are as follows:
- Change the F1 (Help) key Definition in the PE.PRO file.
Include the drive designation for the public volume in the
PE.HLP file specification; for example, 'e c:pe.hlp'
- Use the DOS PATH command to specify the drive and the path to
the public volume; for example, specify PATH c:/;
- Set the default drive to the private volume (which contains
PE.PRO) before invoking the Personal Editor program.
? Plannercalc - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater. The
program does not support access to a drive or volume designation
beyond letter D.
? Professional Editor - The Information Transfer Program cannot be
run to activate the message and file transfer link in IBM PCjrs
with less than 256Kb of memory.
? pfs:FILE/1.05, pfs:REPORT/1.05 - These programs cannot be run at
stations that perform a remote system reset.
? SCRIPT/PC - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater.
? Sort - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater.
? VisiCalc/1.2 - This program does not support access to a drive or
volume designation beyond letter D.
? Word Proof - The Information Transfer Program cannot be run to
activate the message and file transfer link in IBM PCjrs with
less than 256Kb of memory.
Setup instructions for Word Proof are as follows:
- Make a backup copy of the Word Proof program diskette.
- Run Word Proof from the backup diskette, and choose the
option to set profile values. Set the spill file drive and
the additional word list drive to the drive letter for the
private volume. Set the main word list drive and the synonym
list drive to the drive letter for the public volume.
- Use the DOS COPY command to copy the files WORDPRF.PRO and
WORDPRF.ADL from the backup diskette to the private volume.
Use the Public Volume Manager program to copy the remaining
Word Proof files to the public volume.
- Use the DOS PATH command to specify the drive and the path to
the public volume; for example, specify PATH C:/;
- Set the default drive to the private volume before invoking
the Word Proof program.
PLANNING INFORMATION
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: The customer is responsible for the
following:
? Keyboard -- Unpacking the keyboard, supplying and installing four
AA size batteries for cordless operation, if desired, or
attaching the optional keyboard cord, and running the power-on
self-test.
? Power Expansion Attachment -- Unpacking and attaching the
attachment to the PCjr with the four screws provided, connecting
the transformer by attaching the cable to the back of the
attachment, plugging the transformer power cord into the
electrical outlet, and verifying correct operation.
? 128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment -- Unpacking and attaching the
option to the PCjr with the four screws provided, setting memory
switches, running the PCjr memory option diskette, if using DOS,
and verifying correct operation.
PACKAGING:
? Keyboard - The keyboard is packaged with the system unit.
? Power Expansion Attachment - The Power Expansion Attachment,
transformer and power cord, and Guide to Operations inserts are
packaged in a single carton.
? 128Kb Memory Expansion - The 128Kb Memory Expansion is packaged
with the PCjr Memory Option diskette, the Using Your IBM PCjr
Memory Options manual, and Guide to Operations inserts.
ORDERING CHARGES, TERMS, AND CONDITIONS
CHARGES
Single Unit
Feature Description Purchase Price
0006 Power Expansion Attachment $150
0031 128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment 325
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
CUSTOMER SETUP: The IBM PCjr 4860 and its options are customer setup
(CSU). Detailed setup instructions are included with each machine
and option. Setup is available from the IBM Customer Service
Division at IBM hourly rates and minimum.
ORDERING INFORMATION: Orders for any quantity may be taken by NAD/NMD
marketing representatives and processed by the branch offices.
Customers with existing VPA's or special bids will be eligible for
discounts for options installed within the contract period.
Customers may also order from an IBM Product Center. Product
Center single delivery quantity discounts are available. Each Product
Center will accept and process orders within its trading area.
Single Delivery
Quantity Discount
3-9 5%
10-19 8%
EDUCATIONAL ALLOWANCE: Educational allowance of 20% is available to
qualifying institutions. A VPA discount is not in addition to the
educational allowance.
WARRANTY PERIOD: One year.
WARRANTY SERVICE: Customer Carry-in Repair service is provided during
the warranty period. Customer Carry-in Repair is described under the
terms and conditions of the Agreement for Purchase of IBM Machines
(Z125-3275) and the Amendment for IBM Service/Exchange Center
Services (Z125-3385-01).
WARRANTY OPTION: IBM On-site Repair.
MAINTENANCE SERVICE: IBM On-site Repair and Customer Carry-in Repair
maintenance service for the keyboard, the 128Kb Memory Expansion
Attachment, and the Power Expansion Attachment are available and are
included in the charges for the system unit on which they are
installed. Refer to Marketing Announcement 384-071, dated July 31,
1984 for additional maintenance changes.
The customer may obtain IBM service by calling the toll-free
number of the IBM Service/Exchange Communications Center (S/ECC).
U.S. and Puerto Rico - (800) 428-2569
Hawaii and Alaska (call collect) - (312) 986-7451
TIME AND MATERIALS: Time and materials service may be obtained by
calling the Service/Exchange Communication Center's (S/EEC) toll free
number. The S/ECC will give the customer instructions for returning
the machine for service.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The IBM Personal Computing Assistance Center
(PCAC) in Boca Raton will provide telephone assistance to IBM
customers who have signed a Volume Procurement Amendment (VPA) or
special bid. The customer will designate a Technical Support Location
(TSL) which may call the PCAC. Assistance will be available during
the contract period.
NOTICE Notice to IBM Customers
July 31, 1984
ENHANCED KEYBOARD FOR IBM PCJR
On July 31, 1984, IBM announced a new keyboard for the IBM
PCjr. All customers who have purchased a PCjr system or who have a
PCjr system scheduled for shipment on or before September 14, 1984
will automatically be shipped the new keyboard by the end of
November.
PCjr systems scheduled for shipment after September 14, 1984,
will be shipped with the new keyboard.
Any questions should be addressed to your IBM marketing
representative.
TITLE IBM PCJR PROGRAMMING ENHANCED
ABSTRACT The Writing to Read licensed program for the IBM PCjr is an
instructional system designed to develop the writing and reading
skills of kindergarten and first-grade students in a planned
learning-center environment.
PROGNO 6360700
OVERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS
? Teaches children to write what they can say and to read what they
can write.
? Creates a special learning environment.
? Allows children to be responsible for their own learning and to
track their own progress.
? Encourages children to become active participants in the learning
process.
? Teaches children 42 Writing to Read phonemes that represent the
sounds of English speech.
? Helps children understand and use the interrelationship of
speaking, writing, and reading by emphasizing the basic structure
of language.
? Helps children learn to use IBM PCjrs, IBM Selectric(R).
typewriters, and audio cassette players.
? Increases teacher effectiveness through the system's management
design.
? Encourages and frees children to express themselves creatively
through writing.
? Encourages children to interact with each other.
? Allows children to experiment with language without penalizing
them for incorrect responses.
? Offers children learning choices and encourages them to make
personal decisions from among those choices.
DESCRIPTION
Writing to Read is an instructional system designed to develop
the reading skills of kindergarten and first-grade students by
teaching them to write. The program works within a planned learning
center in which children use a variety of equipment and language arts
materials to develop their writing and reading skills.
The main premise of Writing to Read is that children can use
their previously developed language skills to learn to write what
they can say and then to read what they can write. The program
employs a multi-sensory approach, including voice and color graphics,
to help children learn the 42 Writing-to-Read phonemes and to use
these phonemes to express their own thoughts in writing.
Each learner can experience success in reading and writing.
Experimentation, creativity, and positive personal interactions are
encouraged.
CUSTINFO PUBLICATIONS
This licensed program is described in the Writing to Read
Teacher's Manual.
SCHEDULE
The planned availability date is September 1984.
TECHINFO TECHNICAL INFORMATION
SPECIFIED OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS: The Writing to Read diskettes operate on the
following configurations:
? IBM PCjr with 128Kb of memory, the IBM PCjr Speech Attachment and
the IBM BASIC cartridge
? One dual-sided diskette drive
? IBM PCjr Color Display
In addition, Writing to Read requires the following
user-supplied equipment:
? IBM Selectric(R). typewriters or equivalent electric typewriters
that are non-jamming (orator L/A-type element recommended)
? Two sets of earphones for each IBM PCjr with splitter adapter
? Audio cassette players with splitter adapter and two sets of
earphones for each cassette player
SECURITY, AUDITABILITY, AND CONTROL
This program can be used and managed to limit the risk of
unintended modification, destruction, or disclosure of sensitive
data. The customer is responsible for the selection, implementation,
and adequacy of appropriate measures. The customer is also
responsible for the accuracy and integrity of results.
PLANNING INFORMATION
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To use Writing to Read, the school should
prepare a special room to serve as the Learning Center. This room
should be arranged into five major workstations at which the children
will use the IBM PCjrs, typewriters, audio cassette players, and a
variety of other learning materials. A computer aide can be used to
monitor the computer station, freeing the teacher to interact with
students at the other stations.
Program diskettes are easy to install. Simply insert the
appropriate diskette and turn on the computer. Each diskette
presents a menu from which the lesson for the day is selected.
To use Writing to Read successfully, appropriate personal
should be chosen to staff the learning center.
PACKAGING: Writing to Read is distributed with the following:
? Fourteen dual-sided diskettes in a single binder
? The teacher's manual in a binder
? Fifteen listening library audio cassettes in a hard plastic
container
? One set of consumable student work journals (10 journals per set)
for each student in an optional sleevecase.
? Fifteen instructional audio cassettes, color coordinated with the
student work journals
? One each of Make Words Game, Bingo Game, and Wall Chart, packaged
separately
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The IBM Personal Computing Assistance Center
(PCAC) will provide assistance to eligible IBM customers for the
period of their qualifying contract.
ORDERING INFORMATION
Orders for any quantity may be taken by NAD and NMD marketing
representatives and will be processed by the branch office.
Orders for quantities of less than 20 may be taken by the IBM
Product Centers. Each Product Center will receive and process orders
within its trading area.
ORDERING CHARGES, TERMS, AND CONDITIONS
CHARGES
Part Feature One-Time
Number Number Description Charge
6360700 0700 Writing to Read $725.00
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
WARRANTED: Program Warranty - No. The provisions of the IBM Program
License Agreement apply.
THE IBM PROGRAM LICENSE AGREEMENT: A copy is packaged and shipped
with each program and is visible to the customer before the diskette
package is opened. The customer is advised that opening the diskette
package indicates acceptance of these terms and conditions. No
signature is required.
QUANTITY DISCOUNT AGREEMENT (QDA): This program is an eligible
licensed program. The QDA (Z125-3412) and its exhibit (Z125-3413)
provide terms and conditions for volume discounting of programs. A
revised exhibit will be available soon. The discount schedule for
each program is based on the number of qualified eligible licensed
programs, as follows:
Discount Schedule
Quantity of Qualified Discount
Eligible Licenses Percent
20 - 49 12%
50 - 149 16%
150 or more 20%
The QDA is not available at IBM Product Centers. Product
Center single-delivery quantity discounts are available. Each Product
Center will receive and process orders within its trading area.
Single Delivery
Quantity Discount
3 - 9 5%
10 - 19 8%
TESTING PERIOD: None.
EDUCATIONAL ALLOWANCE: Qualifying educational institutions are
eligible to receive the educational allowance of 20% for order
quantities of up to 49. Discounts under a quantity discount agreement
are not additive to the educational allowance.
TITLE IBM PERSONAL COMPUTER PROGRAMMING ENHANCEMENTS
ABSTRACT The IBM Personal Computer is enhanced with the announcement of
the following programs:
? The Earth Science Series:
- Hydrologic Cycle (Feature Number 4121)
- Ground Water (Feature Number 4122)
- Surface Water (Feature Number 4123)
- Moisture in the Atmosphere (Feature Number 4124)
? Private Tutor Version 2 (Feature Number 4113)
? Teacher's Quiz Designer (Feature Number 4075)
? IBM PCjr ColorPaint (Feature Number 4299)
? BASIC Primer Version 2 (Feature Number 4129)
? Gertrude's Puzzles (Feature Number 4098)
? Karel The Robot (Feature Number 4066)
OVERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS
THE EARTH SCIENCE SERIES
? Helps students learn about the hydrologic cycle and how people
affect this cycle.
? Helps students learn about ground water and how this water may be
subject to a variety of human impacts.
? Helps students learn about surface water and how human activity
affects the natural processes.
? Helps students learn about moisture in the atmosphere.
? Provides a true/false quiz and a matching quiz to help reinforce
the learning process.
? Provides feedback and explanation for questions.
? Provides students' scores at the end each quiz.
? Allows the students to print diagrams and other information for
take-home study.
PRIVATE TUTOR VERSION 2 (4113)
? Private Tutor Version 2 consists of one dual-sided diskette
containing four separate programs: Presenter, Reporter, Author,
and Preparer.
? Presenter allows a student to take any course written for Private
Tutor Version 2.
? Incorporates password access to students' records.
? Author enables a user to create lessons. There are four screen
designs available for that purpose: text, true-false, match and
question.
? Author is enhanced by improved screen design, immediate
branching, and block move and copy, as well as single- or
double-lined borders.
? Author allows integration of a video disk file, full-screen
graphics, and a BASIC program into any lesson.
? Additional on-screen help is provided in Author.
? The Preparer takes the lessons generated by the Author and codes
them to be read by the Presenter.
TEACHER'S QUIZ DESIGNER (4075)
? Helps create and edit quizzes at the IBM Personal Computer.
? Scores quizzes and keeps track of student averages.
? Assists in computing grade-point averages for individual students
and the class average.
? Offers password protection for the teacher.
? Gives a selection of quiz-taking options to control how quizzes
are administered.
? Allows teacher to create new quizzes by choosing existing
questions.
? Analyzes quiz results to see how many students missed each
question.
IBM PCJR COLORPAINT (4299)
? Allows selection of colors from a 16-color palette
? Operates exclusively on the IBM PCjr
? Does not require a diskette drive - PCjr cartridge only
? Easy to use - keyboard need not be used, except in text entry
? Selection of function and drawings are made with the aid of a
mouse
? Incorporates a ZOOM Feature for "blow up" of parts of the picture
being displayed
? Allows horizontal and vertical flipping of parts or all of the
picture being displayed
? Allows inverting parts of the picture, similar to looking at a
photographic negative
? Provides point, line, rectangle, and circle drawing features all
with additional fill capabilities
? Features automatic directory display with get, save, and delete
functions
BASIC PRIMER VERSION 2 (4129)
? Previous computer knowledge not required.
? Shows the most useful BASIC commands and statements.
? Shows how to write sample programs to alphabetize and keep
checkbook records.
? Provides practice using data files and saving programs.
? Lessons are written in easy-to-follow language.
? Uses automated graphics to illustrate programming concepts.
GERTRUDE'S PUZZLES (4098)
? Builds basic logic skills for the computer age
? Helps children understand shape and color relationships
? Encourages children to create original computer graphics
? Features color graphics that help children learn
? Provides music and sound effects
KAREL THE ROBOT (4066)
? A configurator helps students set up their system according to
their experience level and particular IBM Personal Computer
configuration. Students can select colors (if they have a color
display), sound, and blinking beepers.
? A simulator lets students run and test their Karel programs.
Students can change both the speed and the level of detail in the
simulator. The simulator also provides error messages about
incorrect use of vocabulary and the grammatical arrangement of
words in a program.
? An editor lets students write their own Karel programs. The
editor makes it simple to correct errors and make changes to a
program.
? A world builder places walls and beepers on Karel's streets and
avenues. With the world builder, students can build walls, mazes,
hurdles, and many kinds of situations to challenge Karel.
? A file manager provides a way for students to save their Karel
programs and worlds on diskettes.
DESCRIPTION
HYDROLOGIC CYCLE (4121)
The Hydrologic Cycle program explains that the hydrologic cycle is
the constant recycling of the world's total water supply. It
demonstrates how water in its liquid, solid, and gaseous forms,
powered by the sun, moves from land, to sea, to air, and back again.
It also shows how people, both directly and indirectly, change the
workings of this global cycle.
GROUND WATER (4122)
The Ground Water program shows why an understanding of ground water
is important in the study of geology, earth science, and physical
geography.
It shows graphically that ground water is the water that has
drained through the soil to saturate the pores and cracks of rocks
underground. This slowly moving water is returned to the earth's
surface when it reappears in springs, rivers, and ponds or emerges
close to the sea. Because ground water is a valuable resource for
people, it also is extracted from wells.
SURFACE WATER (4123)
The Surface Water program demonstrates that surface water is the
water that flows over the slopes of the land and into streams, lakes,
and ponds. The program demonstrates that as water moves, a variety of
erosion and deposit processes take place and shows how many of these
natural processes are modified by human activity.
MOISTURE IN THE ATMOSPHERE (4124)
The Moisture in the Atmosphere program graphically shows how moisture
is always present in the atmosphere and how it constantly evaporates
from the surface of land and seas to produce water vapor, an
invisible gas. It illustrates how the presence of moisture in the
lower atmosphere is responsible for such weather phenomena as clouds,
fog, rain, snow, hail, sleet, drizzle, frost, and dew.
PRIVATE TUTOR VERSION 2 (4113)
The Private Tutor Version 2 is an easy-to-use program designed to
provide a self-study system in the home, office, or classroom. The
program actually consists of four separate programs: the Presenter,
the Reporter, the Author, and the Preparer. The program can present
courses, keep a record of student progress, and create courses.
TEACHER'S QUIZ DESIGNER (4075)
Teacher's Quiz Designer makes the IBM Personal Computer a powerful
tool for the classroom. This program helps the teacher create, edit,
and administer quizzes and keep track of students' scores and
averages.
IBM PCJR COLORPAINT (4299)
ColorPaint is a graphic design tool that combines ease of use
with high function. The ability to define fill patterns, choose
different brush styles, and select colors from a 16-color palette
makes it flexible for both the amateur and professional artist.
Function selection and drawing are simplified with the help of
easy-to-read menus, icons, and fill patterns, all selected with the
aid of a mouse.
All or any part of the screen can be flipped horizontally or
vertically, inverted or even cleared with the touch of a button.
ColorPaint allows you to move or copy a part of the picture to
another place in the screen and provides the choice of making the
copied version transparent or opaque. There are also a number of
functions for drawing points, lines, circles, and rectangles -- all
with the capability of "rubber banding" into the desired shape.
ColorPaint supports both a regular erase function and also a
local erase that allows selective erasing of parts of the freshly
painted drawing, leaving the original painting underneath untouched.
Text can be added to the drawing in three different fonts, each in a
number of different styles and sizes. The zoom feature allows
magnification of any part of the drawing. The magnified drawing may
be scanned while showing the resulting action in the window
representing the area as it will look under normal conditions.
All of the functions and features are in the program
cartridge, so a diskette drive is not needed to use ColorPaint. If a
diskette drive is available, it is possible to store and retrieve
pictures from diskette. An automatic directory display makes saving,
restoring, and deleting picture files an easy operation. The
capability to merge parts of previously saved pictures into the
current drawing gives an artist a chance to save standard pictures or
images which can be used over and over again.
BASIC PRIMER VERSION 2 (4129)
BASIC Primer Version 2 is an educational workbook on the screen.
Simple interactive exercises introduce the editing power of the
Personal Computer keyboard. More difficult concepts are gradually
added, with frequent review. BASIC Primer Version 2 teaches the most
useful BASIC statements, and can be used by students of many ages.
GERTRUDE'S PUZZLES (4098)
Gertrude's Puzzles is an educational game that helps children develop
reasoning skills. Children learn how to solve problems with
incomplete information and analyze what they see.
Players learn by moving puzzle pieces to form color and shape
patterns. There are six different puzzle rooms, each with a new
challenge. Players solve puzzles by arranging game pieces according
to given rules or by guessing a secret rule.
Gertrude the Goose delivers sets of puzzle pieces and prizes.
Children can design their own set of pieces, using this powerful,
new, discovery-tool game.
This product is designed for an audience 8 to 13 years of age.
However, the harder puzzles could present a challenge to adults.
KAREL THE ROBOT (4066)
Karel the Robot is an introductory course in high-level language
programming. This software package presents an overview of the entire
programming process by providing an environment that lets the student
control a robot using a structured programming language similar to
PASCAL. The environment is designed to assist the student in
discovering most of the major concepts of programming.
Students learn how to write simple program instructions and
can see the results of their programs as they watch Karel move on the
screen in response to simple instructions. Karel's world is
displayed as a grid of intersecting streets and avenues that can
contain walls and beepers, objects that Karel can sense and
manipulate. He can load beepers into his beeper bag, put beepers on a
corner, and pick up beepers, all while maneuvering around walls.
Students solve problems by giving Karel primitive commands
such as:
? MOVE Karel goes forward.
? TURNLEFT Karel turns 90 degrees and faces left.
? PUTBEEPER Karel puts a beeper on his
present corner.
? PICKBEEPER Karel picks up a beeper from his
present corner.
? TURNOFF Karel turns himself off at the end
of the task.
Students are gradually exposed to programming and what it can
do, thus gradually learning the concepts of structured programming.
Karel's language is similar to PASCAL in syntax, and it
contains control statements for repeating instructions (the PASCAL
ITERATE-TIMES and WHILE-DO commands), conditional testing
(IF-THEN-ELSE), and grouping instructions into blocks (BEGIN-END).
The language also lets students define new instructions to further
increase Karel's flexibility. Thus, students learn the essence of
programming by breaking down a task into its simplest elements.
CUSTINFO PUBLICATIONS
EARTH SCIENCE SERIES
The program documentation for each of the following programs includes
a guide book:
? The Hydrologic Cycle
? Ground Water
? Surface Water
? Moisture in the Atmosphere
PRIVATE TUTOR VERSION 2 (4113)
The Private Tutor Version 2 program documentation includes a
book and an eight page screen design form.
TEACHER'S QUIZ DESIGNER (4075)
? The IBM Personal Computer Teacher's Quiz Designer Manual
IBM PCJR COLORPAINT (4299)
? A tutorial-style manual describing how to get started.
? A reference publication describing all available functions.
GERTRUDE'S PUZZLES (4098)
? User's Manual
? Back up diskette certificate
KAREL THE ROBOT (4066)
? Guide Book
? Reference card
? Textbook
SCHEDULE
Planned availability for these programs is September 1984.
TECHINFO TECHNICAL INFORMATION
SECURITY, AUDITABILITY, AND CONTROL These products can be used and
managed to reduce the risk of unintended modification, destruction,
or disclosure of sensitive data. The customer is responsible for the
selection, implementation, and adequacy of appropriate measures. The
customer is also responsible for the accuracy and integrity of
results.
PLANNING INFORMATION
Earth Science Series
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To successfully install and use the Earth
Science Series customers should do the following:
? Read the appropriate manual that accompanies the program.
? Make a backup copy of the program diskette.
? Create a self-starting program diskette.
INSTALLABILITY: Before customers can begin using the Earth Science
Series, they need to follow these steps to create a working copy of
the appropriate program diskette that starts automatically.
? Load DOS
? Use the DOS DISKCOPY command to make a backup copy of the
appropriate program diskette.
? If working with a dual-drive system, insert the backup copy of
the appropriate program diskette in drive B.
If working with a single-drive system, leave the DOS
diskette in drive A.
? Type B:SETUP and then press the Enter key.
? Follow the directions on the screen to finish creating the
self-starting diskette.
? When finished creating the self-starting diskette, use the DOS
DISKCOPY command to make a backup copy of the new self-starting
diskette.
Note: The above is a one-time startup procedure. Once the
self-starting diskette is made, the customer only needs to insert the
self-starting diskette in drive A and perform system reset (if the
computer is on) or turn on the computer and display (if they are
off).
PREREQUISITES: The Earth Science Series programs require:
? An IBM Personal Computer, IBM PCjr, IBM Personal Computer XT, or
IBM Portable Personal Computer, with at least 128Kb of memory
? One dual-sided diskette drive
? The BASIC cartridge (IBM PCjr only)
? DOS Version 2 or higher
? Two blank, dual-sided, double density diskettes
? One of the following:
- An IBM Color Display with the IBM Color/Graphics Monitor
Adapter
- An IBM PCjr Color Display
- Any compatible Color Display with an appropriate adapter or a
color TV with an RF modulator
PACKAGING: Each of the members of the Earth Science Series are
distributed in a plastic pack that includes the appropriate program
diskette and guide manual.
Private Tutor Version 2 (4113)
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To successfully install and use Private
Tutor Version 2, the customer is responsible for:
? Reading the user's manual
? Making a backup copy of the program diskette.
INSTALLABILITY: To use Private Tutor Version 2, load DOS, insert the
program diskette in the default drive, and after the DOS prompt, type
GO. The procedures for using the programs are contained in the
appropriate section of the User's Instruction Manual.
PREREQUISITES: Private Tutor Version 2 operates on the following
configuration:
? One of the following IBM Personal Computers with at least 128Kb
of memory:
- IBM Personal Computer
- IBM Personal Computer XT
- IBM PCjr
- IBM Portable Personal Computer
? One dual-sided diskette drive
? One of the following displays:
- IBM Monochrome Display with the IBM Monochrome Display and
Printer Adapter
- IBM Color Display with the IBM Color Graphics Monitor Adapter
- IBM PCjr Color Display (adapter included)
- Television with RF modulator
- Any compatible display with the appropriate display adapter
? IBM Personal Computer Graphics printer or compatible printer
(optional)
? IBM DOS Version 2 or higher
PACKAGING: Private Tutor Version 2 is distributed with the following:
? Private Tutor Version 2 Program Diskette
? User's instruction manual
Teacher's Quiz Designer (4075)
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To successfully install and use Teacher's
Quiz Designer the customer is responsible for:
? Reading the manual
? Making a backup copy of the program diskette.
INSTALLABILITY: Teacher's Quiz Designer has a step-by-step manual
illustrating how to create a self-starting diskette. Once the program
is started, additional help is displayed on the screen.
PREREQUISITES: Teacher's Quiz Designer operates on the following
configuration:
? One of the following IBM Personal Computers with at least 128Kb
of memory:
- IBM Personal Computer
- IBM Personal Computer XT
- IBM PCjr
- IBM Portable Personal Computer
? One dual-sided diskette drive
? One of the following displays:
- IBM Monochrome Display with the IBM Monochrome Display and
Printer Adapter.
- IBM Color Display with the IBM Color Graphics Monitor Adapter
- IBM PCjr Color Display (Adapter included)
- Television with RF Modulator
- Any compatible display with the appropriate display adapter
? IBM Personal Computer Graphics printer or compatible printer
(optional)
? IBM DOS Version 2 or higher
? The BASIC cartridge (IBM PCjr only)
PACKAGING: Teacher's Quiz Designer is distributed with the following:
? Teacher's Quiz Designer Diskette
? Student Reference Card
? Teacher's Quiz Designer Manual
IBM PCjr ColorPaint (4299)
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To successfully install and use ColorPaint
the customer is responsible for:
? Reading the publications
INSTALLABILITY: On IBM PCjr without diskette drive, the user must
read the instruction manual, and then insert the program cartridge.
On IBM PCjr with a diskette drive, the user first must read the
instructions and then load DOS, insert program cartridge, type "G,"
and press the enter key.
PREREQUISITES: ColorPaint operates on the following configuration:
? IBM PCjr with 128Kb of memory
? DOS 2.1 (if ColorPaint is to be used with an IBM PCjr with a
diskette drive)
? IBM PCjr compatible serial interface mouse. Mice operating
differently from the Microsoft or Mouse Systems mice will need to
provide appropriate device driver software when starting the
program.
One of the following displays:
? IBM PCjr Color Display
? IBM Color Display with adapter cable
? Any compatible color display
PACKAGING: ColorPaint is distributed with the following:
? One ColorPaint Program Cartridge
? Two publications
BASIC Primer Version 2 (4129)
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To successfully install and use the program,
the customer should read the User's Instruction booklet and make a
single backup copy of the program diskette.
INSTALLABILITY: BASIC Primer Version 2 has step-by-step illustrations
showing how to start the program.
Once the program is loaded, directions are given on the screen. The
skill level is gradually increased from beginning BASIC through
exercises teaching more complex concepts.
BASIC Primer Version 2 combines keyboard practice with simple
programming exercises in a positive learning environment. Reviews and
encouraging messages are distributed throughout the lessons.
Simple words and pictures make this program ideal for teaching
the BASIC programming language to students.
PREREQUISITES: BASIC Primer Version 2 requires the following minimum
configuration:
? An IBM PCjr, IBM Personal Computer, or IBM Personal Computer XT
with 128Kb memory
? One dual-sided diskette drive
? IBM Color Display with the IBM Color Graphics Monitor Adapter
? A Color Graphics Monitor Adapter and a color monitor, or a
television used with a RF modulator
? IBM Monochrome Display with IBM Monochrome Display and Printer
Adapter
PACKAGING: BASIC Primer Version 2 is distributed with a user's
instruction booklet and one dual-sided program diskette.
Gertrude's Puzzles (4098)
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: The customer is responsible for returning
the backup diskette certificate.
INSTALLABILITY: The user inserts the diskette in drive A, and
powers-on the system.
PREREQUISITES:
? One of the following IBM computers with at least 128Kb of
storage:
- IBM PCjr
- IBM Personal Computer
- IBM Personal Computer XT
- IBM Portable Personal Computer
? One single-sided or dual-sided diskette drive
? One of the following:
- IBM PCjr Display
- IBM Color Display with the Color Graphics Monitor Adapter
- A Color Graphics Monitor Adapter and a color monitor, or a
television with an RF modulator.
PACKAGING: Gertrude's Puzzles is distributed with:
? User's Manual
? One program diskette (single-sided)
? Backup diskette certificate
Karel the Robot (4066)
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To successfully install and use the Karel
the Robot program, customers should:
? Read the publications
? Make backup copies of the Karel, Answers, and Worlds diskettes.
INSTALLABILITY: The Karel the Robot program can be run by inserting
the Karel program diskette in the diskette drive and turning on the
computer.
PREREQUISITES:
? IBM Personal Computer, IBM PCjr, or IBM Personal Computer XT with
128Kb Memory
? A dual-sided diskette drive
? IBM Personal Computer Color Display with the IBM Color Graphics
Monitor Adapter, IBM PCjr Display, a Color Graphics Monitor
Adapter and a color monitor, or a color television used with an
RF modulator
PACKAGING: Karel the Robot is distributed in a three-ring binder and
includes:
? A guide book
? A textbook
? A reference card
? The Karel program diskette
? The Answers diskette
? The Worlds diskette
ORDERING INFORMATION
Orders for any quantity may be taken by NAD and NMD marketing
representatives.
Orders for quantities of less than 20 may be taken by the IBM
Product Centers. Each Product Center will take and process orders
within its trading area.
ORDERING CHARGES, TERMS, AND CONDITIONS
CHARGES
Part Feature One-time
Number Number Description Charge
6024121 4121 Hydrologic Cycle - Earth $ 49
Science Series
6024122 4122 Ground Water - Earth 49
Science Series
6024123 4123 Surface Water - Earth 49
Science Series
6024124 4124 Moisture in the Atmosphere - 49
Earth Science Series
6024113 4113 Private Tutor Version 2 50
6024075 4075 Teacher's Quiz Designer 70
6024299 4299 IBM PCjr ColorPaint 99
6024129 4129 BASIC Primer Version 2 60
6024098 4098 Gertrude's Puzzles 45
6024066 4066 Karel the Robot 150
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
WARRANTED: Program Warranty - No. The provisions of the IBM Program
License Agreement apply to all of the programs.
THE IBM PROGRAM LICENSE AGREEMENT: A copy is packaged and shipped
with each program and is visible to the customer before the diskette
package is opened. The customer is advised that opening the diskette
package indicates acceptance of these terms and conditions. No
signature is required.
QDA: These programs are eligible licensed programs on the QDA. This
agreement (Z125-3412) and its exhibit (Z125-3413) provide terms and
conditions for volume discounting of programs. A revised exhibit will
be available soon. The discount schedule for each program is based
upon the number of qualified eligible licensed programs, as follows:
Discount Schedule
Quantity of Qualified Discount
Eligible Licenses Percent
20 - 49 12%
50 - 149 16%
150 or more 20%
The QDA is not available at the IBM Product Center. Product
Center single delivery quantity discounts are available. Each Product
Center will receive and process orders within its trading area.
Single Delivery
Quantity Discount
3-9 5%
10-19 8%
TESTING PERIOD: None
EDUCATIONAL ALLOWANCE: Qualifying educational institutions are
eligible to receive the educational allowance of 20% for order
quantities of up to 49. Discounts under a quantity discount agreement
are not additive to the educational allowance.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The IBM Personal Computing Assistance Center
(PCAC) will provide assistance to eligible IBM customers for the
period of their qualifying contract.
------------------------------
End of Info-IBMPC Digest
************************
-------
∂01-Aug-84 1851 INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #80
Received: from USC-ISIB.ARPA by SU-AI.ARPA with TCP; 1 Aug 84 18:49:21 PDT
Date: 1 Aug 1984 15:01:41 PDT
Subject: Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #80
From: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC: ;
Info-IBMPC Digest Wednesday, 1 August 1984 Volume 3 : Issue 80
This Week's Editor: Billy Brackenridge
Today's Topics:
Special Issue on PCjr Enhancements & Educational Software
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Tue, 31 Jul 84 08:26:45 PDT
From: IBM Press Release
Subject: Writing to Read & New PCjr Keyboard
IBM OFFERS "WRITING TO READ" EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM,
NEW KEYBOARD, ENHANCEMENTS AND PROGRAMS FOR PCjr
IBM announced today that its "Writing to Read" system for teaching
children to read and write will be available to schools for use
with the IBM PCjr. The company also introduced a new, typewriter-
style keyboard--as well as options and programs that extend the
power and versatility of the PCjr.
"Writing to Read," a complete language laboratory, employs a
unique educational approach designed to teach children how to write
everything they can say and read everything they can write. During
the last two years, more than 22,000 kindergarden and first-grade
pupils in 225 schools around the country participated in evaluating
"Writing to Read."
The new typewriter-style keyboard--now standard with all PCjrs--
has 62 individually contoured, full-travel keys. It has the
convenience of cordless operation using an infrared signal to
communicate with the system unit; an optional connecting cord is
also available. The new keyboard will be available at no charge
to current PCjr owners and to those who purchase a PCjr from
existing supplies. Owners can obtain a new keyboard by bringing
proof of purchase to their Authorized IBM Personal Computer
Dealer.
The new PCjr options, available in August, are:
- A 128K Memory Expansion Attachment that includes an
"electronic diskette" and can be used to boost the
total PCjr user memory, in increments, to 512K;
- A Power Expansion Attachment that provides additional
power for connecting additional options to the computer;
and
- A Speech Attachment--a speech synthesizer that contains
196 built-in words and sounds and also can record speech
on a diskette through a microphone unit. The attachment
works with the "Writing to Read" system.
Two new PCjr cartridge programs, available in the fall, were
also announced. They are:
- IBM PCjr ColorPaint, a drawing program used with a "mouse"
to create full-color, freestyle artwork; and
- Andrew Tobias Managing Your Money* with the IBM PCjr,
an integrated personal financial planning program.
The new keyboard, options and programs will be available in the
United States and Canada. In the U.S., the products will be
available from more than 1,500 Authorized IBM Personal Computer
Dealers and from IBM Product Centers and branch sales offices.
*Trademark of Micro Education Corporation of America
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 31 Jul 84 10:09:17 PDT
From: IBM Press Release
Subject: Detailed Announcement on PCjr Enhancements
TITLE IBM PCJR SPEECH ATTACHMENT
ABSTRACT The IBM PCjr Speech Attachment (#0024) is a speech synthesizer
which supports speech and sound under program control. It may be used
in conjunction with programs such as "Writing to Read" (#0700) to
provide visual and audio education for school or home.
OVERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS
? Installs easily
? Attaches to the side of the system unit
? Includes 196 pre-recorded words and sounds
? Records, stores, and retrieves speech under program control on
diskette
DESCRIPTION
The option uses linear predictive coding (LPC) and
continuously variable slope delta (CVSD) modulation techniques which
support speech and sound under program control. It supports speech
encoding in compressed mode and contains 196 words in ROM. It
includes a microphone input jack for a user-supplied microphone.
Audio output is via the IBM PCjr standard audio channel. Speech data
can be recorded on the IBM PCjr diskette through the user-supplied
microphone using CVSD technique. Pre-recorded speech can be stored on
IBM PCjr cartridges and used under program control.
CUSTINFO PUBLICATIONS
The IBM PCjr Speech Attachment is described in the following:
? Technical Reference Manual Insert
? Option Installation Instructions (Guide to Operation)
? Problem Determination Procedure (Guide to Operation)
? BASIC Programmers Guide Supplement
? Hardware Maintenance and Service Manual Insert
SCHEDULE
Planned availability is September 1984.
TECHINFO TECHNICAL INFORMATION
? Size
- Width -- 32 mm (1.26 in.)
- Depth -- 290 mm (11.42 in.)
- Height -- 96.5 mm (3.80 in.)
? Environment
- Air Temperature
. System ON -- 15.6 to 32.2 degrees C (60 to 90 degrees F)
. System OFF -- 10 to 43 degrees C (50 to 110 degrees F)
- Humidity
. System ON or OFF -- 8% to 80%
? Power
- At +5Vdc, 250mA
- At +12Vdc, 60mA
? Microphone Input
- Miniature phone jack (3.5 mm)
- 600 ohm nominal impedance
? Audio Output Options
- PCjr color display
- RF modulator with TV
- System audio output to external amplifier and speaker
PREREQUISITES: PCjr systems without the Power Expansion Attachment
(#0006) operate with only one of the following side-attached options:
? Parallel Printer Attachment (#0009)
? Speech Attachment (#0024)
? 128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment (#0031)
With the Power Expansion Attachment, up to three of the above
side-attached features, including the IBM PCjr Cluster Attachment
(#0027), can be added.
PLANNING INFORMATION
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: The customer is responsible for unpacking
the Speech Attachment, attaching it to the PCjr system unit, and
verifying correct operations.
PACKAGING: The Speech Attachment is packaged with the Guide to
Operation inserts, and the BASIC Programmers Guide Supplement.
INSTALLABILITY: The Speech Attachment is connected to the right side
of the PCjr system unit with the two screws provided. Power is drawn
from the connector. An optional user-supplied microphone connects
into the back of the Speech Attachment.
ORDERING CHARGES, TERMS, AND CONDITIONS
CHARGES
Feature Purchase
Number Price
IBM PCjr Speech Attachment #0024 $300
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Orders for any quantity of the feature may be taken by NAD/NMD
marketing representatives and processed by the branch office.
Customers with existing Personal Computer Volume Procurement
Amendments (VPA) or special bids will be eligible for discounts for
applicable features installed within the contract period.
IBM Product Centers will accept orders for less than VPA or
special bid quantities. Each product center will receive and process
orders within its trading area.
Single Delivery
Quantity Discount
3 - 9 5%
10 - 19 8%
EDUCATIONAL ALLOWANCE: An educational allowance of 20% is available
to qualifying institutions. A VPA discount is not in addition to the
educational allowance.
CUSTOMER SETUP: The feature is customer setup (CSU). Detailed set up
instructions are included with each feature. Setup is available from
the IBM Customer Service Division at IBM hourly rates and minimums.
WARRANTY PERIOD: One year.
WARRANTY SERVICE: Warranty service for the feature is obtained by
Customer Carry-in Repair (CCR) of the system unit (4860), keyboard,
and the feature, or by IBM On-site Repair (IOR) if the warranty
option is in effect.
Note: All warranty service requests require proof of purchase.
MAINTENANCE SERVICE: Maintenance service for the feature is covered
under the terms and conditions for the system unit on which it is
installed. The system unit maintenance price is not affected by the
addition of the adapter.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The IBM Personal Computing Assistance Center
(PCAC) in Boca Raton will provide telephone assistance to IBM
customers who have signed a Volume Procurement Amendment (VPA) or
special bid. The customer will designate a Technical Support Location
(TSL) which may call the PCAC. Assistance will be available during
the contract period.
TITLE IBM PCJR 4860 ENHANCEMENTS
ABSTRACT A new enhanced version of the 62-key IBM PCjr keyboard,
additional memory features which allow the PCjr to grow to 512Kb, and
additional cluster support are announced for IBM PCjr 4860 Models 4
and 67.
OVERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS
? New 62-key Keyboard
? Power Expansion Attachment
? 128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment
DESCRIPTION
KEYBOARD
The new low-profile, 62-key, detached keyboard for the IBM
PCjr uses full-size keys with the nomenclature printed on the
keytops. This nomenclature is designed to be as close as possible to
that on the current PCjr keyboard. The text, or core nomenclature, is
black on light-color keys. Special characters on these keys are color
coded as they are on the current keyboard. For example, F1 through
F10 are green. The 16 function keys on either side of the core are
pebble gray with the special function printed on the keytop in the
same color as on the current keyboard. The keys are arranged in a
standard typewriter layout with a function key and cursor control
keys added. The keyboard provides the user all the functions of the
IBM Personal Computer 83-key keyboard.
The pressure to depress the keys has been designed to please
both the novice and the experienced user. Two tilt positions provide
for operator comfort. In the normal position, the keyboard has a
5-degree slope; with the legs extended, it has a 12-degree slope. The
keyboard is also suitable for lap operation. A pencil holder and
non-skid feet are part of the keyboard.
The keyboard is battery powered and communicates with the
system unit through an infrared (IR) optical link. Since the keyboard
will function properly when located within 20 feet of and in front of
the IBM PCjr system unit, it is a truly portable hand-held device.
The optional keyboard cable must be used when multiple systems
are being operated in the immediate area to eliminate interference.
POWER EXPANSION ATTACHMENT (#0006)
Attached to the right side of the system unit, this option
provides 20 watts of additional power. It includes a separate
desk-top transformer and power cord, and is required when multiple
options are attached.
PCjr systems with only one of the following side-attached
options do not require the Power Expansion Attachment:
? Parallel Printer Attachment (#0009)
? Speech Attachment (#0024)
? 128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment (#0031) [Requires Model 67s or
Model 4s configured with optional features equivalent to Model
67s]
With the Power Expansion Attachment, up to three of the above
side-attached features, including the Cluster Attachment (#0027), can
be added. The Cluster Attachment requires the Power Expansion
Attachment when the diskette, printer attachment, or memory expansion
attachment is present.
The Internal Modem (#0008) operates with the system unit
internal power supply and does not require the Power Expansion
Attachment.
128KB MEMORY EXPANSION ATTACHMENT (#0031)
This is a side-attached option that increases random access
memory (RAM) by 128Kb. Up to three #0031s can be attached to provide
512Kb of total RAM. Parity is not supported.
The attachment requires the PCjr memory options diskette which
is included and allows DOS to utilize the expanded memory. The
diskette contains programs that enable use of more than 128Kb of
memory. A temporary second diskette drive, resident in memory for
storing programs and files, can also be created, using programs on
this diskette.
CUSTINFO PUBLICATIONS
Using Your IBM PCjr Memory Options, plus updates are provided
for:
? Guide to Operations
? Hardware Maintenance and Service Manual
? Technical Reference Manual
SCHEDULE
Planned availability is September 1984.
TECHINFO TECHNICAL INFORMATION
KEYBOARD
? Dimensions
- length 341.5 mm (13.45 inches)
- depth 168.0 mm (6.61 inches)
- height 29.0 mm (1.12 inches)
? Weight
- 700 grams (25 oz) without batteries
- 784 grams (28 oz) with batteries
POWER EXPANSION ATTACHMENT (#0006)
? Transformer 56-volt-ampere step down type housed separately
? Dimensions
- length 32.0 mm (1.26 inches)
- depth 290.0 mm (11.42 inches)
- height 96.5 mm (3.80 inches)
? Power: 120 volt, 60 Hz, 0.7 amps
? Power Supply: Powered from low voltage separate transformer
outputs:
- 5.0 volts @ 3.0 amps
- 12.0 volts @ 0.33 amps
- -12.0 volts @ 0.03 amps
? Standard raven black power cord.
128K MEMORY EXPANSION (#0031)
? Access Time: 290 nanoseconds
? Memory Cycle Time: 840 nanoseconds
? Dimensions
- length 32.0 mm (1.26 inches)
- depth 290.0 mm (11.42 inches)
- height 96.5 mm (3.80 inches)
SPECIFIED OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
Power Expansion Attachment
? Operating temperature: 15.6-32.2 degrees C (60-90 degrees F)
? Shipping/storage temperature: -40 to 60 degrees C (-40 to 140
degrees F)
? Relative humidity: 8-80% (operating)
? Altitude: to 7000 feet
128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment
? Operating temperature: 15.6-32.2 degrees C (60-90 degrees F)
? Shipping/storage temperature: -40 to 60 degrees C (-40 to 140
degrees F)
? Relative humidity: 8-80% (operating)
? Altitude: to 7000 feet
LIMITATIONS
Keyboard - The IBM PCjr Cordless Keyboard Overlays (#0013)
will not work with the enhanced keyboard.
128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment - Programs that require
Cartridge BASIC, or that are self-starting, or that do not use DOS
2.1 will normally run only in 128Kb memory mode.
SOFTWARE COMPATIBILITY
The following IBM software applications run on a PCjr and
utilize memory as indicated.
Up to More than
Application 128Kb 128Kb Requires
Adventure Y N
Adventure in Serenia Y N
Adventure in Math Y N B
Animation Creation Y Y
Arithmetic Games 1 & 2 Y N B,D
Accounting Solutions Y Y D
Executive Solutions Y Y D
Home Solutions Y Y D
Filing Assistant Y Y D
Reporting Assistant Y Y D
Graphing Assistant Y Y D
Writing Assistant Y N D
Basic Compiler Y Y D
BASIC Programming DEV Sys 1.05 Y Y D
Bumble Games Y N B
Bumble Plot Y N B
Casino Games Y N B
Cluster Y Y D
COBOL Compiler N Y M, D
Computers & Communications Y Y D
Crossfire Y N
Diskette Librarian Y N D, B
DisplayWrite 1* Y Y D
Dow Jones Reporter? Y N D, B
EasyWriter 1.1 & 1.15? Y Y D
Fact Track Y N B, D
FileCommand Y Y D
FORTRAN Compiler 2.00 N Y M, D
Gertrude's Puzzles Y N
Gertrude's Secrets Y N
Home Budget jr Y N B
HomeWord* Y N
Juggles' Butterfly* Y N B
Karel the Robot Y N
Learning DOS 2.0 Y Y D
Learning to Program in BASIC Y Y D
LOGO Y Y D
Macro Assembler Y Y D
Mailing List Manager Y N
Mine Shaft Y N
Monster Math Y N B
Mouser Y N
Multiplan? Y Y D
Multiplication Tables Y Y D
PCjr BASIC Y N B
PASCAL Compiler 2.0 N Y M, D
PeachText 1.00? Y Y D
Personal Communications
Manager Y Y
Personal Editor Y Y D
pfs:FILE? Y Y D
pfs:REPORT Y Y D
PlannerCalc Y Y D
Private Tutor Y Y D
Professional Editor Y Y D
Script/PC N Y D
ScubaVenture Y N
Sort 1.00 N Y M, D
Strategy Games Y N B
Time Manager Y N D
Turtle Power Y N
VisiCalc 1.2? Y Y D
Word Proof Y Y
Writing To Read Y N D, B
* These programs include overlays for the cordless keyboard which are
not used with the new PCjr keyboard.
Legend:
B = Basic Cartridge
D = DOS 2.1
M = Memory Disk
? Dow Jones is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Incorporated.
? EasyWriter is a trademark of Information Unlimited Software,
Incorporated.
? Multiplan is a U. S. trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
? PeachText is a trademark of Peachtree Software Incorporated.
? pfs: is a registered trademark of Software Publishing Corporation.
? VisiCalc is a trademark of VisiCorp.
PREREQUISITES
Keyboard - Four user-provided AA size batteries are required
to operate the keyboard without a cord. These batteries should be of
a longlife, leak resistant type. The optional Keyboard Cord (#0012)
is required to operate the keyboard without batteries.
Power Expansion Attachment (#0006) - The Power Expansion
Attachment must be the first side-attached option installed.
128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment (#0031) - At least 128Kb of
internal memory is required. If two or more #0031s are installed, the
Power Expansion Attachment (#0006) is also required. The PCjr must
have a diskette drive or access to a file server on a Personal
Computer Cluster.
CLUSTER CONFIGURATIONS: The Power Expansion Attachment (#0006)
removes previous restrictions relating to the use of the Cluster
Attachment (#0027). With the addition of #0006, PCjr models support
any combination of cluster attachments, a diskette drive, a parallel
printer attachment, and an internal modem. Use of the Cluster
Attachment in a configuration having more than 128Kb of memory
requires a diskette drive, or access to a file server on a Personal
Computer Cluster.
CLUSTER PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS: In "Using Your IBM PCjr Memory
Options," Appendix B contains customized installation instructions
for running the Cluster Program on IBM PCjrs with memory expanded
beyond 128Kb. Note the following additional points:
? Performing a local system reset on IBM PCjrs with expanded memory
allows the greatest number of applications to run.
? If a remote system reset is performed, an updated version of two
Cluster Program files, DC.COM and @#CLUSTR.COM, may be required.
Updated versions of these files are required when the two files
are dated December 30, 1983 on a directory listing of the Cluster
Program ship diskette. The updated files are available through
the technical support location.
IBM Software Products Supported by the Cluster Program on the
IBM PCjr
Runs Runs Uses
Runs from from Data in
from Public Private Private
Software Diskette Volume Volume Volume
Adventures in Math Yes No Yes Yes
Assistant Accounting
Solutions Yes No Yes N/A
Assistant Executive
Solutions Yes No Yes N/A
Assistant Home
Solutions Yes No Yes N/A
Basic Compiler Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cartridge BASIC N/A N/A N/A Yes
COBOL Compiler Yes Yes Yes Yes
Diskette Librarian Yes Yes Yes Yes
DisplayWrite 1 Yes Yes Yes Yes
Dow Jones Reporter Yes No No No
EasyWriter/1.1 Yes No No Yes
EasyWriter/1.15 Yes Yes Yes Yes
FileCommand Yes Yes Yes Yes
Filing Assistant Yes No No Yes
Fixed Disk Organizer Yes No Yes Yes
FORTRAN Compiler/
2.0 Yes Yes Yes Yes
Graphing Assistant Yes No No Yes
Logo Yes Yes Yes Yes
Macro Assembler Yes Yes Yes Yes
Monster Math Yes Yes Yes Yes
Multiplan/1.1 Yes No No Yes
Pascal Compiler/2.0 Yes Yes Yes Yes
PeachText Yes Yes Yes Yes
Personal Communications
Manager Yes Yes Yes Yes
Personal Editor Yes Yes Yes Yes
pfs:FILE/1.05 Yes No No Yes
pfs:REPORT/1.05 Yes No No Yes
PlannerCalc Yes Yes Yes Yes
Professional Editor Yes Yes Yes Yes
Reporting Assistant Yes No No Yes
Script/PC Yes Yes Yes Yes
Sort Yes Yes Yes Yes
VisiCalc/1.2 Yes No No Yes
Word Proof Yes Yes Yes Yes
Notes:
? Adventures in Math - The version of BASICA shipped on the program
diskette cannot be used. Instead, the DOS 2.1 level of BASICA
should be copied to the backup diskette or volume containing the
program. This program is not supported in IBM PCjrs configured
to use greater than 128Kb of memory.
? Assistant Accounting Solutions, Executive Solutions, Home
Solutions - These data files for the Assistant family can be kept
on disk, diskette, the public, or a private volume. If the files
are kept in the public volume, they must be copied to disk,
diskette, or a private volume before use.
? BASIC Compiler - Although the BASIC Compiler is supported, the
programs it compiles may not run with the Cluster Program. A
patch to the BASIC compiler is available from the IBM Personal
Computing Assistance Center. The DOS 2.1 version of LINK cannot
be run on IBM PCjrs in the cluster with less than 256Kb of
memory. The DOS 1.1 version of LINK on the BASIC Compiler
diskette must be used instead.
? Cartridge BASIC - This cartridge program is not supported in IBM
PCjrs configured to use greater than 128Kb of memory.
? COBOL Compiler - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater.
It does not support access to a drive or volume designation
beyond letter D. A patch for the COBOL Compiler that permits
using a drive or volume designation beyond D is available from
the IBM Personal Computing Assistance Center.
? Diskette Librarian - The version of BASIC shipped on the program
diskette cannot be used. Instead, the DOS 2.1 level of BASIC
should be copied to the backup diskette or volume containing the
program. This program is not supported in IBM PCjrs configured
to use greater than 128Kb of memory.
? DisplayWrite 1 - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater.
Running the program from the public volume implies using one
common profile and one set of text defaults at remote stations.
The common profile and text defaults can be updated by one of the
following procedures:
- Update the common profile and text defaults while running
DisplayWrite 1 from the private rather than the public
volume. Then use the cluster Public Volume Manager program
to copy the common profile and text defaults to the public
volume.
- While running DisplayWrite 1, update the common profile and
text defaults in memory only. Upon exit from the program, the
original defaults will be restored.
? Dow Jones Reporter - This program cannot be run at stations that
perform a remote system reset. The program is not supported in
IBM PCjrs configured to use greater than 128Kb of memory.
? EasyWriter/1.1 - This program cannot be run at stations that
perform a remote system reset. The ASSIGN command must be used to
redirect drive B to the private volume.
? EasyWriter/1.15 - This program cannot be run from diskette at
stations that perform a remote system reset. The program can,
however, be run from the public volume or a private volume after
a remote system reset. The ASSIGN command must be used to
redirect drive B to the private volume.
? File Command - No notes.
? Filing Assistant, Graphing Assistant, Reporting Assistant - These
programs cannot be run at stations that perform a remote system
reset.
? Fixed Disk Organizer - This program requires 256Kb memory or
greater. The program must be started with Fixed Disk Organizer's
AUTOEXEC.BAT file.
? FORTRAN Compiler/2.0 - This program requires 256Kb memory or
greater.
? Logo - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater.
? MACRO Assembler - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater.
? Monster Math - The version of BASICA shipped on the program
diskette cannot be used. Instead, the DOS 2.1 level of BASICA
should be copied to the backup diskette or volume containing the
program. This program is not supported in IBM PCjrs configured
to use greater than 128Kb of memory.
? Multiplan/1.1 - No notes.
? Pascal Compiler/2.0 - This program requires 256Kb memory or
greater.
? PeachText - No notes.
? Personal Communications Manager - This program requires 256Kb
memory or greater. The program does not support access to a drive
or volume designation beyond letter D. The reconfigure option
cannot be used when running the program from the public volume.
? Personal Editor - Setup instructions to run the Personal Editor
with the program file, PE.EXE, and the help file, PE.HLP, in the
public volume (and with the profile, PE.PRO, in the private
volume) are as follows:
- Change the F1 (Help) key Definition in the PE.PRO file.
Include the drive designation for the public volume in the
PE.HLP file specification; for example, 'e c:pe.hlp'
- Use the DOS PATH command to specify the drive and the path to
the public volume; for example, specify PATH c:/;
- Set the default drive to the private volume (which contains
PE.PRO) before invoking the Personal Editor program.
? Plannercalc - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater. The
program does not support access to a drive or volume designation
beyond letter D.
? Professional Editor - The Information Transfer Program cannot be
run to activate the message and file transfer link in IBM PCjrs
with less than 256Kb of memory.
? pfs:FILE/1.05, pfs:REPORT/1.05 - These programs cannot be run at
stations that perform a remote system reset.
? SCRIPT/PC - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater.
? Sort - This program requires 256Kb memory or greater.
? VisiCalc/1.2 - This program does not support access to a drive or
volume designation beyond letter D.
? Word Proof - The Information Transfer Program cannot be run to
activate the message and file transfer link in IBM PCjrs with
less than 256Kb of memory.
Setup instructions for Word Proof are as follows:
- Make a backup copy of the Word Proof program diskette.
- Run Word Proof from the backup diskette, and choose the
option to set profile values. Set the spill file drive and
the additional word list drive to the drive letter for the
private volume. Set the main word list drive and the synonym
list drive to the drive letter for the public volume.
- Use the DOS COPY command to copy the files WORDPRF.PRO and
WORDPRF.ADL from the backup diskette to the private volume.
Use the Public Volume Manager program to copy the remaining
Word Proof files to the public volume.
- Use the DOS PATH command to specify the drive and the path to
the public volume; for example, specify PATH C:/;
- Set the default drive to the private volume before invoking
the Word Proof program.
PLANNING INFORMATION
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: The customer is responsible for the
following:
? Keyboard -- Unpacking the keyboard, supplying and installing four
AA size batteries for cordless operation, if desired, or
attaching the optional keyboard cord, and running the power-on
self-test.
? Power Expansion Attachment -- Unpacking and attaching the
attachment to the PCjr with the four screws provided, connecting
the transformer by attaching the cable to the back of the
attachment, plugging the transformer power cord into the
electrical outlet, and verifying correct operation.
? 128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment -- Unpacking and attaching the
option to the PCjr with the four screws provided, setting memory
switches, running the PCjr memory option diskette, if using DOS,
and verifying correct operation.
PACKAGING:
? Keyboard - The keyboard is packaged with the system unit.
? Power Expansion Attachment - The Power Expansion Attachment,
transformer and power cord, and Guide to Operations inserts are
packaged in a single carton.
? 128Kb Memory Expansion - The 128Kb Memory Expansion is packaged
with the PCjr Memory Option diskette, the Using Your IBM PCjr
Memory Options manual, and Guide to Operations inserts.
ORDERING CHARGES, TERMS, AND CONDITIONS
CHARGES
Single Unit
Feature Description Purchase Price
0006 Power Expansion Attachment $150
0031 128Kb Memory Expansion Attachment 325
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
CUSTOMER SETUP: The IBM PCjr 4860 and its options are customer setup
(CSU). Detailed setup instructions are included with each machine
and option. Setup is available from the IBM Customer Service
Division at IBM hourly rates and minimum.
ORDERING INFORMATION: Orders for any quantity may be taken by NAD/NMD
marketing representatives and processed by the branch offices.
Customers with existing VPA's or special bids will be eligible for
discounts for options installed within the contract period.
Customers may also order from an IBM Product Center. Product
Center single delivery quantity discounts are available. Each Product
Center will accept and process orders within its trading area.
Single Delivery
Quantity Discount
3-9 5%
10-19 8%
EDUCATIONAL ALLOWANCE: Educational allowance of 20% is available to
qualifying institutions. A VPA discount is not in addition to the
educational allowance.
WARRANTY PERIOD: One year.
WARRANTY SERVICE: Customer Carry-in Repair service is provided during
the warranty period. Customer Carry-in Repair is described under the
terms and conditions of the Agreement for Purchase of IBM Machines
(Z125-3275) and the Amendment for IBM Service/Exchange Center
Services (Z125-3385-01).
WARRANTY OPTION: IBM On-site Repair.
MAINTENANCE SERVICE: IBM On-site Repair and Customer Carry-in Repair
maintenance service for the keyboard, the 128Kb Memory Expansion
Attachment, and the Power Expansion Attachment are available and are
included in the charges for the system unit on which they are
installed. Refer to Marketing Announcement 384-071, dated July 31,
1984 for additional maintenance changes.
The customer may obtain IBM service by calling the toll-free
number of the IBM Service/Exchange Communications Center (S/ECC).
U.S. and Puerto Rico - (800) 428-2569
Hawaii and Alaska (call collect) - (312) 986-7451
TIME AND MATERIALS: Time and materials service may be obtained by
calling the Service/Exchange Communication Center's (S/EEC) toll free
number. The S/ECC will give the customer instructions for returning
the machine for service.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The IBM Personal Computing Assistance Center
(PCAC) in Boca Raton will provide telephone assistance to IBM
customers who have signed a Volume Procurement Amendment (VPA) or
special bid. The customer will designate a Technical Support Location
(TSL) which may call the PCAC. Assistance will be available during
the contract period.
NOTICE Notice to IBM Customers
July 31, 1984
ENHANCED KEYBOARD FOR IBM PCJR
On July 31, 1984, IBM announced a new keyboard for the IBM
PCjr. All customers who have purchased a PCjr system or who have a
PCjr system scheduled for shipment on or before September 14, 1984
will automatically be shipped the new keyboard by the end of
November.
PCjr systems scheduled for shipment after September 14, 1984,
will be shipped with the new keyboard.
Any questions should be addressed to your IBM marketing
representative.
TITLE IBM PCJR PROGRAMMING ENHANCED
ABSTRACT The Writing to Read licensed program for the IBM PCjr is an
instructional system designed to develop the writing and reading
skills of kindergarten and first-grade students in a planned
learning-center environment.
PROGNO 6360700
OVERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS
? Teaches children to write what they can say and to read what they
can write.
? Creates a special learning environment.
? Allows children to be responsible for their own learning and to
track their own progress.
? Encourages children to become active participants in the learning
process.
? Teaches children 42 Writing to Read phonemes that represent the
sounds of English speech.
? Helps children understand and use the interrelationship of
speaking, writing, and reading by emphasizing the basic structure
of language.
? Helps children learn to use IBM PCjrs, IBM Selectric(R).
typewriters, and audio cassette players.
? Increases teacher effectiveness through the system's management
design.
? Encourages and frees children to express themselves creatively
through writing.
? Encourages children to interact with each other.
? Allows children to experiment with language without penalizing
them for incorrect responses.
? Offers children learning choices and encourages them to make
personal decisions from among those choices.
DESCRIPTION
Writing to Read is an instructional system designed to develop
the reading skills of kindergarten and first-grade students by
teaching them to write. The program works within a planned learning
center in which children use a variety of equipment and language arts
materials to develop their writing and reading skills.
The main premise of Writing to Read is that children can use
their previously developed language skills to learn to write what
they can say and then to read what they can write. The program
employs a multi-sensory approach, including voice and color graphics,
to help children learn the 42 Writing-to-Read phonemes and to use
these phonemes to express their own thoughts in writing.
Each learner can experience success in reading and writing.
Experimentation, creativity, and positive personal interactions are
encouraged.
CUSTINFO PUBLICATIONS
This licensed program is described in the Writing to Read
Teacher's Manual.
SCHEDULE
The planned availability date is September 1984.
TECHINFO TECHNICAL INFORMATION
SPECIFIED OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS: The Writing to Read diskettes operate on the
following configurations:
? IBM PCjr with 128Kb of memory, the IBM PCjr Speech Attachment and
the IBM BASIC cartridge
? One dual-sided diskette drive
? IBM PCjr Color Display
In addition, Writing to Read requires the following
user-supplied equipment:
? IBM Selectric(R). typewriters or equivalent electric typewriters
that are non-jamming (orator L/A-type element recommended)
? Two sets of earphones for each IBM PCjr with splitter adapter
? Audio cassette players with splitter adapter and two sets of
earphones for each cassette player
SECURITY, AUDITABILITY, AND CONTROL
This program can be used and managed to limit the risk of
unintended modification, destruction, or disclosure of sensitive
data. The customer is responsible for the selection, implementation,
and adequacy of appropriate measures. The customer is also
responsible for the accuracy and integrity of results.
PLANNING INFORMATION
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To use Writing to Read, the school should
prepare a special room to serve as the Learning Center. This room
should be arranged into five major workstations at which the children
will use the IBM PCjrs, typewriters, audio cassette players, and a
variety of other learning materials. A computer aide can be used to
monitor the computer station, freeing the teacher to interact with
students at the other stations.
Program diskettes are easy to install. Simply insert the
appropriate diskette and turn on the computer. Each diskette
presents a menu from which the lesson for the day is selected.
To use Writing to Read successfully, appropriate personal
should be chosen to staff the learning center.
PACKAGING: Writing to Read is distributed with the following:
? Fourteen dual-sided diskettes in a single binder
? The teacher's manual in a binder
? Fifteen listening library audio cassettes in a hard plastic
container
? One set of consumable student work journals (10 journals per set)
for each student in an optional sleevecase.
? Fifteen instructional audio cassettes, color coordinated with the
student work journals
? One each of Make Words Game, Bingo Game, and Wall Chart, packaged
separately
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The IBM Personal Computing Assistance Center
(PCAC) will provide assistance to eligible IBM customers for the
period of their qualifying contract.
ORDERING INFORMATION
Orders for any quantity may be taken by NAD and NMD marketing
representatives and will be processed by the branch office.
Orders for quantities of less than 20 may be taken by the IBM
Product Centers. Each Product Center will receive and process orders
within its trading area.
ORDERING CHARGES, TERMS, AND CONDITIONS
CHARGES
Part Feature One-Time
Number Number Description Charge
6360700 0700 Writing to Read $725.00
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
WARRANTED: Program Warranty - No. The provisions of the IBM Program
License Agreement apply.
THE IBM PROGRAM LICENSE AGREEMENT: A copy is packaged and shipped
with each program and is visible to the customer before the diskette
package is opened. The customer is advised that opening the diskette
package indicates acceptance of these terms and conditions. No
signature is required.
QUANTITY DISCOUNT AGREEMENT (QDA): This program is an eligible
licensed program. The QDA (Z125-3412) and its exhibit (Z125-3413)
provide terms and conditions for volume discounting of programs. A
revised exhibit will be available soon. The discount schedule for
each program is based on the number of qualified eligible licensed
programs, as follows:
Discount Schedule
Quantity of Qualified Discount
Eligible Licenses Percent
20 - 49 12%
50 - 149 16%
150 or more 20%
The QDA is not available at IBM Product Centers. Product
Center single-delivery quantity discounts are available. Each Product
Center will receive and process orders within its trading area.
Single Delivery
Quantity Discount
3 - 9 5%
10 - 19 8%
TESTING PERIOD: None.
EDUCATIONAL ALLOWANCE: Qualifying educational institutions are
eligible to receive the educational allowance of 20% for order
quantities of up to 49. Discounts under a quantity discount agreement
are not additive to the educational allowance.
TITLE IBM PERSONAL COMPUTER PROGRAMMING ENHANCEMENTS
ABSTRACT The IBM Personal Computer is enhanced with the announcement of
the following programs:
? The Earth Science Series:
- Hydrologic Cycle (Feature Number 4121)
- Ground Water (Feature Number 4122)
- Surface Water (Feature Number 4123)
- Moisture in the Atmosphere (Feature Number 4124)
? Private Tutor Version 2 (Feature Number 4113)
? Teacher's Quiz Designer (Feature Number 4075)
? IBM PCjr ColorPaint (Feature Number 4299)
? BASIC Primer Version 2 (Feature Number 4129)
? Gertrude's Puzzles (Feature Number 4098)
? Karel The Robot (Feature Number 4066)
OVERVIEW HIGHLIGHTS
THE EARTH SCIENCE SERIES
? Helps students learn about the hydrologic cycle and how people
affect this cycle.
? Helps students learn about ground water and how this water may be
subject to a variety of human impacts.
? Helps students learn about surface water and how human activity
affects the natural processes.
? Helps students learn about moisture in the atmosphere.
? Provides a true/false quiz and a matching quiz to help reinforce
the learning process.
? Provides feedback and explanation for questions.
? Provides students' scores at the end each quiz.
? Allows the students to print diagrams and other information for
take-home study.
PRIVATE TUTOR VERSION 2 (4113)
? Private Tutor Version 2 consists of one dual-sided diskette
containing four separate programs: Presenter, Reporter, Author,
and Preparer.
? Presenter allows a student to take any course written for Private
Tutor Version 2.
? Incorporates password access to students' records.
? Author enables a user to create lessons. There are four screen
designs available for that purpose: text, true-false, match and
question.
? Author is enhanced by improved screen design, immediate
branching, and block move and copy, as well as single- or
double-lined borders.
? Author allows integration of a video disk file, full-screen
graphics, and a BASIC program into any lesson.
? Additional on-screen help is provided in Author.
? The Preparer takes the lessons generated by the Author and codes
them to be read by the Presenter.
TEACHER'S QUIZ DESIGNER (4075)
? Helps create and edit quizzes at the IBM Personal Computer.
? Scores quizzes and keeps track of student averages.
? Assists in computing grade-point averages for individual students
and the class average.
? Offers password protection for the teacher.
? Gives a selection of quiz-taking options to control how quizzes
are administered.
? Allows teacher to create new quizzes by choosing existing
questions.
? Analyzes quiz results to see how many students missed each
question.
IBM PCJR COLORPAINT (4299)
? Allows selection of colors from a 16-color palette
? Operates exclusively on the IBM PCjr
? Does not require a diskette drive - PCjr cartridge only
? Easy to use - keyboard need not be used, except in text entry
? Selection of function and drawings are made with the aid of a
mouse
? Incorporates a ZOOM Feature for "blow up" of parts of the picture
being displayed
? Allows horizontal and vertical flipping of parts or all of the
picture being displayed
? Allows inverting parts of the picture, similar to looking at a
photographic negative
? Provides point, line, rectangle, and circle drawing features all
with additional fill capabilities
? Features automatic directory display with get, save, and delete
functions
BASIC PRIMER VERSION 2 (4129)
? Previous computer knowledge not required.
? Shows the most useful BASIC commands and statements.
? Shows how to write sample programs to alphabetize and keep
checkbook records.
? Provides practice using data files and saving programs.
? Lessons are written in easy-to-follow language.
? Uses automated graphics to illustrate programming concepts.
GERTRUDE'S PUZZLES (4098)
? Builds basic logic skills for the computer age
? Helps children understand shape and color relationships
? Encourages children to create original computer graphics
? Features color graphics that help children learn
? Provides music and sound effects
KAREL THE ROBOT (4066)
? A configurator helps students set up their system according to
their experience level and particular IBM Personal Computer
configuration. Students can select colors (if they have a color
display), sound, and blinking beepers.
? A simulator lets students run and test their Karel programs.
Students can change both the speed and the level of detail in the
simulator. The simulator also provides error messages about
incorrect use of vocabulary and the grammatical arrangement of
words in a program.
? An editor lets students write their own Karel programs. The
editor makes it simple to correct errors and make changes to a
program.
? A world builder places walls and beepers on Karel's streets and
avenues. With the world builder, students can build walls, mazes,
hurdles, and many kinds of situations to challenge Karel.
? A file manager provides a way for students to save their Karel
programs and worlds on diskettes.
DESCRIPTION
HYDROLOGIC CYCLE (4121)
The Hydrologic Cycle program explains that the hydrologic cycle is
the constant recycling of the world's total water supply. It
demonstrates how water in its liquid, solid, and gaseous forms,
powered by the sun, moves from land, to sea, to air, and back again.
It also shows how people, both directly and indirectly, change the
workings of this global cycle.
GROUND WATER (4122)
The Ground Water program shows why an understanding of ground water
is important in the study of geology, earth science, and physical
geography.
It shows graphically that ground water is the water that has
drained through the soil to saturate the pores and cracks of rocks
underground. This slowly moving water is returned to the earth's
surface when it reappears in springs, rivers, and ponds or emerges
close to the sea. Because ground water is a valuable resource for
people, it also is extracted from wells.
SURFACE WATER (4123)
The Surface Water program demonstrates that surface water is the
water that flows over the slopes of the land and into streams, lakes,
and ponds. The program demonstrates that as water moves, a variety of
erosion and deposit processes take place and shows how many of these
natural processes are modified by human activity.
MOISTURE IN THE ATMOSPHERE (4124)
The Moisture in the Atmosphere program graphically shows how moisture
is always present in the atmosphere and how it constantly evaporates
from the surface of land and seas to produce water vapor, an
invisible gas. It illustrates how the presence of moisture in the
lower atmosphere is responsible for such weather phenomena as clouds,
fog, rain, snow, hail, sleet, drizzle, frost, and dew.
PRIVATE TUTOR VERSION 2 (4113)
The Private Tutor Version 2 is an easy-to-use program designed to
provide a self-study system in the home, office, or classroom. The
program actually consists of four separate programs: the Presenter,
the Reporter, the Author, and the Preparer. The program can present
courses, keep a record of student progress, and create courses.
TEACHER'S QUIZ DESIGNER (4075)
Teacher's Quiz Designer makes the IBM Personal Computer a powerful
tool for the classroom. This program helps the teacher create, edit,
and administer quizzes and keep track of students' scores and
averages.
IBM PCJR COLORPAINT (4299)
ColorPaint is a graphic design tool that combines ease of use
with high function. The ability to define fill patterns, choose
different brush styles, and select colors from a 16-color palette
makes it flexible for both the amateur and professional artist.
Function selection and drawing are simplified with the help of
easy-to-read menus, icons, and fill patterns, all selected with the
aid of a mouse.
All or any part of the screen can be flipped horizontally or
vertically, inverted or even cleared with the touch of a button.
ColorPaint allows you to move or copy a part of the picture to
another place in the screen and provides the choice of making the
copied version transparent or opaque. There are also a number of
functions for drawing points, lines, circles, and rectangles -- all
with the capability of "rubber banding" into the desired shape.
ColorPaint supports both a regular erase function and also a
local erase that allows selective erasing of parts of the freshly
painted drawing, leaving the original painting underneath untouched.
Text can be added to the drawing in three different fonts, each in a
number of different styles and sizes. The zoom feature allows
magnification of any part of the drawing. The magnified drawing may
be scanned while showing the resulting action in the window
representing the area as it will look under normal conditions.
All of the functions and features are in the program
cartridge, so a diskette drive is not needed to use ColorPaint. If a
diskette drive is available, it is possible to store and retrieve
pictures from diskette. An automatic directory display makes saving,
restoring, and deleting picture files an easy operation. The
capability to merge parts of previously saved pictures into the
current drawing gives an artist a chance to save standard pictures or
images which can be used over and over again.
BASIC PRIMER VERSION 2 (4129)
BASIC Primer Version 2 is an educational workbook on the screen.
Simple interactive exercises introduce the editing power of the
Personal Computer keyboard. More difficult concepts are gradually
added, with frequent review. BASIC Primer Version 2 teaches the most
useful BASIC statements, and can be used by students of many ages.
GERTRUDE'S PUZZLES (4098)
Gertrude's Puzzles is an educational game that helps children develop
reasoning skills. Children learn how to solve problems with
incomplete information and analyze what they see.
Players learn by moving puzzle pieces to form color and shape
patterns. There are six different puzzle rooms, each with a new
challenge. Players solve puzzles by arranging game pieces according
to given rules or by guessing a secret rule.
Gertrude the Goose delivers sets of puzzle pieces and prizes.
Children can design their own set of pieces, using this powerful,
new, discovery-tool game.
This product is designed for an audience 8 to 13 years of age.
However, the harder puzzles could present a challenge to adults.
KAREL THE ROBOT (4066)
Karel the Robot is an introductory course in high-level language
programming. This software package presents an overview of the entire
programming process by providing an environment that lets the student
control a robot using a structured programming language similar to
PASCAL. The environment is designed to assist the student in
discovering most of the major concepts of programming.
Students learn how to write simple program instructions and
can see the results of their programs as they watch Karel move on the
screen in response to simple instructions. Karel's world is
displayed as a grid of intersecting streets and avenues that can
contain walls and beepers, objects that Karel can sense and
manipulate. He can load beepers into his beeper bag, put beepers on a
corner, and pick up beepers, all while maneuvering around walls.
Students solve problems by giving Karel primitive commands
such as:
? MOVE Karel goes forward.
? TURNLEFT Karel turns 90 degrees and faces left.
? PUTBEEPER Karel puts a beeper on his
present corner.
? PICKBEEPER Karel picks up a beeper from his
present corner.
? TURNOFF Karel turns himself off at the end
of the task.
Students are gradually exposed to programming and what it can
do, thus gradually learning the concepts of structured programming.
Karel's language is similar to PASCAL in syntax, and it
contains control statements for repeating instructions (the PASCAL
ITERATE-TIMES and WHILE-DO commands), conditional testing
(IF-THEN-ELSE), and grouping instructions into blocks (BEGIN-END).
The language also lets students define new instructions to further
increase Karel's flexibility. Thus, students learn the essence of
programming by breaking down a task into its simplest elements.
CUSTINFO PUBLICATIONS
EARTH SCIENCE SERIES
The program documentation for each of the following programs includes
a guide book:
? The Hydrologic Cycle
? Ground Water
? Surface Water
? Moisture in the Atmosphere
PRIVATE TUTOR VERSION 2 (4113)
The Private Tutor Version 2 program documentation includes a
book and an eight page screen design form.
TEACHER'S QUIZ DESIGNER (4075)
? The IBM Personal Computer Teacher's Quiz Designer Manual
IBM PCJR COLORPAINT (4299)
? A tutorial-style manual describing how to get started.
? A reference publication describing all available functions.
GERTRUDE'S PUZZLES (4098)
? User's Manual
? Back up diskette certificate
KAREL THE ROBOT (4066)
? Guide Book
? Reference card
? Textbook
SCHEDULE
Planned availability for these programs is September 1984.
TECHINFO TECHNICAL INFORMATION
SECURITY, AUDITABILITY, AND CONTROL These products can be used and
managed to reduce the risk of unintended modification, destruction,
or disclosure of sensitive data. The customer is responsible for the
selection, implementation, and adequacy of appropriate measures. The
customer is also responsible for the accuracy and integrity of
results.
PLANNING INFORMATION
Earth Science Series
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To successfully install and use the Earth
Science Series customers should do the following:
? Read the appropriate manual that accompanies the program.
? Make a backup copy of the program diskette.
? Create a self-starting program diskette.
INSTALLABILITY: Before customers can begin using the Earth Science
Series, they need to follow these steps to create a working copy of
the appropriate program diskette that starts automatically.
? Load DOS
? Use the DOS DISKCOPY command to make a backup copy of the
appropriate program diskette.
? If working with a dual-drive system, insert the backup copy of
the appropriate program diskette in drive B.
If working with a single-drive system, leave the DOS
diskette in drive A.
? Type B:SETUP and then press the Enter key.
? Follow the directions on the screen to finish creating the
self-starting diskette.
? When finished creating the self-starting diskette, use the DOS
DISKCOPY command to make a backup copy of the new self-starting
diskette.
Note: The above is a one-time startup procedure. Once the
self-starting diskette is made, the customer only needs to insert the
self-starting diskette in drive A and perform system reset (if the
computer is on) or turn on the computer and display (if they are
off).
PREREQUISITES: The Earth Science Series programs require:
? An IBM Personal Computer, IBM PCjr, IBM Personal Computer XT, or
IBM Portable Personal Computer, with at least 128Kb of memory
? One dual-sided diskette drive
? The BASIC cartridge (IBM PCjr only)
? DOS Version 2 or higher
? Two blank, dual-sided, double density diskettes
? One of the following:
- An IBM Color Display with the IBM Color/Graphics Monitor
Adapter
- An IBM PCjr Color Display
- Any compatible Color Display with an appropriate adapter or a
color TV with an RF modulator
PACKAGING: Each of the members of the Earth Science Series are
distributed in a plastic pack that includes the appropriate program
diskette and guide manual.
Private Tutor Version 2 (4113)
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To successfully install and use Private
Tutor Version 2, the customer is responsible for:
? Reading the user's manual
? Making a backup copy of the program diskette.
INSTALLABILITY: To use Private Tutor Version 2, load DOS, insert the
program diskette in the default drive, and after the DOS prompt, type
GO. The procedures for using the programs are contained in the
appropriate section of the User's Instruction Manual.
PREREQUISITES: Private Tutor Version 2 operates on the following
configuration:
? One of the following IBM Personal Computers with at least 128Kb
of memory:
- IBM Personal Computer
- IBM Personal Computer XT
- IBM PCjr
- IBM Portable Personal Computer
? One dual-sided diskette drive
? One of the following displays:
- IBM Monochrome Display with the IBM Monochrome Display and
Printer Adapter
- IBM Color Display with the IBM Color Graphics Monitor Adapter
- IBM PCjr Color Display (adapter included)
- Television with RF modulator
- Any compatible display with the appropriate display adapter
? IBM Personal Computer Graphics printer or compatible printer
(optional)
? IBM DOS Version 2 or higher
PACKAGING: Private Tutor Version 2 is distributed with the following:
? Private Tutor Version 2 Program Diskette
? User's instruction manual
Teacher's Quiz Designer (4075)
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To successfully install and use Teacher's
Quiz Designer the customer is responsible for:
? Reading the manual
? Making a backup copy of the program diskette.
INSTALLABILITY: Teacher's Quiz Designer has a step-by-step manual
illustrating how to create a self-starting diskette. Once the program
is started, additional help is displayed on the screen.
PREREQUISITES: Teacher's Quiz Designer operates on the following
configuration:
? One of the following IBM Personal Computers with at least 128Kb
of memory:
- IBM Personal Computer
- IBM Personal Computer XT
- IBM PCjr
- IBM Portable Personal Computer
? One dual-sided diskette drive
? One of the following displays:
- IBM Monochrome Display with the IBM Monochrome Display and
Printer Adapter.
- IBM Color Display with the IBM Color Graphics Monitor Adapter
- IBM PCjr Color Display (Adapter included)
- Television with RF Modulator
- Any compatible display with the appropriate display adapter
? IBM Personal Computer Graphics printer or compatible printer
(optional)
? IBM DOS Version 2 or higher
? The BASIC cartridge (IBM PCjr only)
PACKAGING: Teacher's Quiz Designer is distributed with the following:
? Teacher's Quiz Designer Diskette
? Student Reference Card
? Teacher's Quiz Designer Manual
IBM PCjr ColorPaint (4299)
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To successfully install and use ColorPaint
the customer is responsible for:
? Reading the publications
INSTALLABILITY: On IBM PCjr without diskette drive, the user must
read the instruction manual, and then insert the program cartridge.
On IBM PCjr with a diskette drive, the user first must read the
instructions and then load DOS, insert program cartridge, type "G,"
and press the enter key.
PREREQUISITES: ColorPaint operates on the following configuration:
? IBM PCjr with 128Kb of memory
? DOS 2.1 (if ColorPaint is to be used with an IBM PCjr with a
diskette drive)
? IBM PCjr compatible serial interface mouse. Mice operating
differently from the Microsoft or Mouse Systems mice will need to
provide appropriate device driver software when starting the
program.
One of the following displays:
? IBM PCjr Color Display
? IBM Color Display with adapter cable
? Any compatible color display
PACKAGING: ColorPaint is distributed with the following:
? One ColorPaint Program Cartridge
? Two publications
BASIC Primer Version 2 (4129)
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To successfully install and use the program,
the customer should read the User's Instruction booklet and make a
single backup copy of the program diskette.
INSTALLABILITY: BASIC Primer Version 2 has step-by-step illustrations
showing how to start the program.
Once the program is loaded, directions are given on the screen. The
skill level is gradually increased from beginning BASIC through
exercises teaching more complex concepts.
BASIC Primer Version 2 combines keyboard practice with simple
programming exercises in a positive learning environment. Reviews and
encouraging messages are distributed throughout the lessons.
Simple words and pictures make this program ideal for teaching
the BASIC programming language to students.
PREREQUISITES: BASIC Primer Version 2 requires the following minimum
configuration:
? An IBM PCjr, IBM Personal Computer, or IBM Personal Computer XT
with 128Kb memory
? One dual-sided diskette drive
? IBM Color Display with the IBM Color Graphics Monitor Adapter
? A Color Graphics Monitor Adapter and a color monitor, or a
television used with a RF modulator
? IBM Monochrome Display with IBM Monochrome Display and Printer
Adapter
PACKAGING: BASIC Primer Version 2 is distributed with a user's
instruction booklet and one dual-sided program diskette.
Gertrude's Puzzles (4098)
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: The customer is responsible for returning
the backup diskette certificate.
INSTALLABILITY: The user inserts the diskette in drive A, and
powers-on the system.
PREREQUISITES:
? One of the following IBM computers with at least 128Kb of
storage:
- IBM PCjr
- IBM Personal Computer
- IBM Personal Computer XT
- IBM Portable Personal Computer
? One single-sided or dual-sided diskette drive
? One of the following:
- IBM PCjr Display
- IBM Color Display with the Color Graphics Monitor Adapter
- A Color Graphics Monitor Adapter and a color monitor, or a
television with an RF modulator.
PACKAGING: Gertrude's Puzzles is distributed with:
? User's Manual
? One program diskette (single-sided)
? Backup diskette certificate
Karel the Robot (4066)
CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITY: To successfully install and use the Karel
the Robot program, customers should:
? Read the publications
? Make backup copies of the Karel, Answers, and Worlds diskettes.
INSTALLABILITY: The Karel the Robot program can be run by inserting
the Karel program diskette in the diskette drive and turning on the
computer.
PREREQUISITES:
? IBM Personal Computer, IBM PCjr, or IBM Personal Computer XT with
128Kb Memory
? A dual-sided diskette drive
? IBM Personal Computer Color Display with the IBM Color Graphics
Monitor Adapter, IBM PCjr Display, a Color Graphics Monitor
Adapter and a color monitor, or a color television used with an
RF modulator
PACKAGING: Karel the Robot is distributed in a three-ring binder and
includes:
? A guide book
? A textbook
? A reference card
? The Karel program diskette
? The Answers diskette
? The Worlds diskette
ORDERING INFORMATION
Orders for any quantity may be taken by NAD and NMD marketing
representatives.
Orders for quantities of less than 20 may be taken by the IBM
Product Centers. Each Product Center will take and process orders
within its trading area.
ORDERING CHARGES, TERMS, AND CONDITIONS
CHARGES
Part Feature One-time
Number Number Description Charge
6024121 4121 Hydrologic Cycle - Earth $ 49
Science Series
6024122 4122 Ground Water - Earth 49
Science Series
6024123 4123 Surface Water - Earth 49
Science Series
6024124 4124 Moisture in the Atmosphere - 49
Earth Science Series
6024113 4113 Private Tutor Version 2 50
6024075 4075 Teacher's Quiz Designer 70
6024299 4299 IBM PCjr ColorPaint 99
6024129 4129 BASIC Primer Version 2 60
6024098 4098 Gertrude's Puzzles 45
6024066 4066 Karel the Robot 150
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
WARRANTED: Program Warranty - No. The provisions of the IBM Program
License Agreement apply to all of the programs.
THE IBM PROGRAM LICENSE AGREEMENT: A copy is packaged and shipped
with each program and is visible to the customer before the diskette
package is opened. The customer is advised that opening the diskette
package indicates acceptance of these terms and conditions. No
signature is required.
QDA: These programs are eligible licensed programs on the QDA. This
agreement (Z125-3412) and its exhibit (Z125-3413) provide terms and
conditions for volume discounting of programs. A revised exhibit will
be available soon. The discount schedule for each program is based
upon the number of qualified eligible licensed programs, as follows:
Discount Schedule
Quantity of Qualified Discount
Eligible Licenses Percent
20 - 49 12%
50 - 149 16%
150 or more 20%
The QDA is not available at the IBM Product Center. Product
Center single delivery quantity discounts are available. Each Product
Center will receive and process orders within its trading area.
Single Delivery
Quantity Discount
3-9 5%
10-19 8%
TESTING PERIOD: None
EDUCATIONAL ALLOWANCE: Qualifying educational institutions are
eligible to receive the educational allowance of 20% for order
quantities of up to 49. Discounts under a quantity discount agreement
are not additive to the educational allowance.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE: The IBM Personal Computing Assistance Center
(PCAC) will provide assistance to eligible IBM customers for the
period of their qualifying contract.
------------------------------
End of Info-IBMPC Digest
************************
-------
∂02-Aug-84 0222 INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #81
Received: from USC-ISIB.ARPA by SU-AI.ARPA with TCP; 2 Aug 84 02:15:06 PDT
Date: 2 Aug 1984 01:59:04 PDT
Subject: Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #81
From: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC: ;
Info-IBMPC Digest Thursday, 2 August 1984 Volume 3 : Issue 81
This Week's Editor: Eliot Moore
Today's Topics:
Unipress Gosling EMACS
Polo PC Query
Shritek Boards
XT Power Supply in PC-II
Keytronics Keyboard Query
Paradise Graphics Board
Modula-2 Query
Public Domain C Compiler Query
Turbo Pascal
IBM Pascal - Inhibiting Control-C
Development Systems
Disassembler
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: 29 Jul 1984 01:02:39 PDT
Subject: Unipress Gosling EMACS
From: Billy <BRACKENRIDGE@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
ISI has recently acquired a beta test version of Gosling EMACS for
the IBM-PC. For the last few years I have been using MINCE from
Mark of the Unicorn on my PC and EMACS on Tops-20. I assume readers
are familiar with the various dialects of EMACS and so will
concern myself only with details of implementation in this article.
Gosling EMACS from Unipress is a complete implementation. The .EXE
file alone is more than 275K bytes. The libraries fill up another
640K disk and the help database (which isn't shipped in this version)
is rumored to take up nearly 2 megabytes. While EMACS will run in
384K I wouldn't recommend running it in less than 512K.
The entire program is written in Lattice C and a source license is
available for a reasonable $999 price. I think the normal object
license is around $350 or $375.
It would be unfair to review this product based on the beta test version
as there are a number of known problems that should be worked out
soon.
EMACS takes about a minute to load from a floppy disk. I am told
this will be speeded up in the future. I believe much of the time
is taken in a MLISP compilation that will be eliminated. (MLISP is
the internal implementation language for Gosling EMACS)
Once EMACS is loaded one can push to an inferior EXEC and run
compilations or whatever. I have not tried the "compile" command,
but theoreticly one can compile a set of programs in an inferior
exec and monitor errors in separate EMACS buffers. I have used the
"push to inferior exec" command and run compilations of programs by
hand and instantly returned to the memory resident EMACS with my
source files loaded and ready for a reedit. This feature is real
handy and speeds things up immensely but has its perils. You need
buckets of memory as EMACS with reasonably full buffers takes up
about 300K, and as the Pascal Compiler isn't exactly miserly I take
full advantage of the 1.25 megabytes of memory on my PC.
This version of EMACS will probably be of use to programmers
because of this feature, but the IBM-PC's lack of memory protection
really bytes you here. The folks at Unipress warned us in the
manual that badly behaved programs running while EMACS is loaded in
memory could wipe out EMACS internal structures and EMACS could
then proceed to trash the disk.
While memory protection would be nice, I am sure this sort of error
could be avoided by protecting critical data structures and code
with checksums.
Given the size and complexity of the program and slowness of the PC
this implementation of Gosling EMACS performs very well. Running it
on a PC is significantly better than running on our VAX-780 against
a half dozen users in a typical daytime load. I am sure the program
will get faster as it is honed, and an upgrade to an 8086 or one
of the newer Intel processors would make this direct screen implementation
faster than a 9600 baud connection to a stand alone VAX.
I am suffering a bit from culture shock. I have never even configured
an init file in Tops-20 EMACS much less dealt with the MLISP code of a
Gosling EMACS. Dale Chase here at ISI is working on adapting MLISP
mail reading libraries so that they are suitable for the PC environment.
I would like to consider MLISP as a valid language for submission of
programs to the INFO-IBMPC library now that there is a Gosling EMACS
available for the PC, but I am utterly incompetent to administer such
a library. Perhaps someone from CMU who is more familiar with MLISP
could act as a net source for MLISP libraries appropriate to the PC.
Are there such mailing lists already?
I'd love to throw away my copy of Mince, but Unipress isn't quite
there yet and I am back to using Mince for most of my editing. I am
sure the real release version will be more customized to the PC and
clear up the obvious annoying bugs. Unipress does offer a smaller
version of EMACS which does not include MLISP capability, but that
won't be ready for the PC for a fairly long time. While this
current version of the program leaves a lot to be desired, things
look good for the future as the program has a lot of potential and
the people at Unipress have been very pleasant to deal with and
seem aware of the problems and are interested enough in our
opinions to send us a beta test version.
------------------------------
Date: Sun, 29 Jul 84 12:01:06 EDT
From: Dave Farber <dfarber@udel-ee>
To: info-ibmpc@isib
Subject: Shritek Boards
Cc: decvax!linus!sid@Ucb-Vax.arpa
I have a SRITEK 68000 board and yes it is fast BUT the Xenix on it
is hopelessly out of date and buggy. Unless you find a new version
of xenix supplied by other than SRITEK I would stay clear. As an aside
the new 8086 upgrade boards will work faster than will the 68k sritek uses.
So anyone have a 4.2 for the sritek?
As to the 16032, until National fixes the incredible bugs that machine
has I would just as soon stay far from it.
------------------------------
Date: Mon 30 Jul 84 12:35:42-EDT
From: Bill Catchings <Sy.WBC3%CU20B@COLUMBIA-20.ARPA>
Subject: Polo PC
To: Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
cc: Sy.WBC3%CU20B@COLUMBIA-20.ARPA
I'm looking into a supposed PC compatible called the Polo PC.
Has anyone heard of it and/or have any information or experience.
I believe it is very new and has some neat features, but I can't
find out much more information. Thanks for any info you may have.
-Bill Catchings
------------------------------
Date: 01 Aug 84 12:15:28 PDT (Wed)
To: Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Cc: avi@SU-ISL
Subject: PC/XT power-supply in a PC-II
From: avi%SU-ISL@SU-SIERRA
Paving the way for an internal hard-disk, I looked for a PC/XT
power supply, to increased the power capability.
A helpful (?) service person I talked to said that there are several
versions of the official IBM power supply, and not all are compatible with
the PC-II.
Has anybody heard about this thing ?
Any positive (or negative) experience performing this substitution ?
Thanks in advance,
Avi Weinreb I.S.L, EE Dept., Stanford University.
------------------------------
Date: 27 Jul 84 22:37:59-PDT (Fri)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!cbosgd!mark @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Keytronics keyboard Query
Can anyone tell me the difference between the Keytronic 5150 (which
can apparently be had for about $175) and the 5151 ($210 or so)?
Do they both fit the IBM PC? I gather the 5151 is new and improved;
what's improved?
Any recommended places to buy them? I STILL don't have my keyboard
from Micro Mart (they keep changing the date they claim it was shipped)
and am getting about ready to order it from elsewhere and withhold
payment from Visa (the charge has already appeared on my bill.)
Mark Horton
cbosgd!mark
mark@Berkeley
------------------------------
From: augeri%rpi.csnet@csnet-relay.arpa
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib
Subject: Paradise graphics board
Cc: ihmp4!fortune!ojc@ucb-vax.arpa
We have a PARADISE board on our XT. We are very satisfied with it. We only
have a BW monitor so I don't have an opinion when using color monitors.
This board also has a parallel port and a game port.
-- Ivan Auger --
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 31 Jul 84 12:38:03 edt
From: ima!inmet!tower@cca-unix
Subject: Modula-2 query
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Has anyone heard of any implementations of Modula-2 on the IBM-PC.
The following data would all be useful:
Supplier's name, addresses, phone numbers.
Comments on an implementation, including ease of use, speed,
quality of code, bugs, et. al.
I am also interested in an available conversion tools from Pascal to Modula-2.
Thanx!
-len tower UUCP: {ihnp4,harpo}!inmet!tower
Intermetrics, Inc. INTERNET: ima!inmet!tower@CCA-UNIX.ARPA
Cambridge, MA
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 31 Jul 84 14:46 PDT
From: JMRatcliff.ES@XEROX.ARPA
Subject: Public Domain C Compiler
To: INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Does anyone know of a public domain C compiler for the IBM pc? If so,
please let me know where I could get a copy. Thanks in advance.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 31 Jul 84 10:52:24 pdt
From: trwspf!spfb!spfd!jeff@lbl-csam
To: Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.Arpa
Subject: Turbo Pascal
Does anyone know how to get the address of a procedure or function in
Turbo Pascal? I'm trying to create an interrupt handler and want to
point the interrupt to a specific procedure inside the main procedure.
Any suggestions?
While I'm asking, does anyone know how to prevent a Turbo Pascal
program from clearing the screen when it starts?
Thanks,
Jeff
------------------------------
Date: Tue 31 Jul 84 17:09:16-PDT
From: Michael A. Haberler <HABERLER@SU-SIERRA.ARPA>
Subject: IBM Pascal and Control-C
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Is there any way to prevent exiting a IBM Pascal program by hitting Control-C?
This is pretty annoying for a terminal emulator. Any suggestions?
- michael
------------------------------
From: avi%SU-ISL@SU-Sierra (Abraham Weinreb)
Date: 31 Jul 84 16:22:47 PDT (Tue)
To: Info-IBMPC%usc-isib.arpa@sierra
Cc: avi@SU-ISL
Subject: Re: Development systems
A while back I asked for information about the above.
Thanks to SUNSHINE@USC-ISIF , Ron Kuper (Boston U.) and Zohar Lotan (BNR)
The following info is available:
Genesis Microsystems
196 Castro St. Mountain-View , Ca. 94041
(415) 964-9001
They make a package that emulates an MDS system on the PC. Included is
software to port the MDS software to the PC and use it there.
Microtec Research
505 West Olive St. , Suite 325 , Sunnyvale, Ca. 94086
(408) 733-2919
They make a wide variety of cross-assemblers, simulators etc. of many popular
microprocessors, which run on the PC and on minis.
The usual disclaimer:
I have no connection with any of these companies, even as a client.
The information above is from some sales brochures.
Avi Weinreb
ISL, EE dept. Stanford University.
------------------------------
Date: 31 Jul 84 12:47:57-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!intelca!glen @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Disassembler
a real quick & DIRTY method is to simply use the MSDOS DEBUG program.
load in your PROM code and use the "u" (unassemble) debug command.
I've seen other programs specially designed for this purpose which are
much more elegant but there names escape me.
--
↑ ↑ Glen Shires, Intel, Santa Clara, Ca.
O O Usenet: {ucbvax!amd,pur-ee,hplabs}!intelca!glen
> ARPA: "amd!intelca!glen"@BERKELEY
\-/ --- stay mellow
------------------------------
End of Info-IBMPC Digest
************************
-------
∂05-Aug-84 0231 INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #82
Received: from USC-ISIB.ARPA by SU-AI.ARPA with TCP; 5 Aug 84 02:30:43 PDT
Date: 5 Aug 1984 02:09:23 PDT
Subject: Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #82
From: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC: ;
Info-IBMPC Digest Sunday, 5 August 1984 Volume 3 : Issue 82
This Week's Editor: Eliot Moore
Today's Topics:
PC/IX Asynchronous Port Problem
Tab sizes under DOS and Wordstar
Intuit
Modula-2
3Com Unet and TCP
Disassembler
Mindset Personal Computer
DTR Control in BASIC
PC/IX Mailsystem
Keyboard Mapping (2 messages)
Keytronics Keyboards (5 messages)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: 30 Jul 84 8:21:02-PDT (Mon)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!mgnetp!ltuxa!tty3b!lee @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: PC/IX Asynchronous Port Problem
I have had a similar problem booting PC/IX after running DOS or the
maintenance diskette. PC/IX hangs before the boot message if I don't
power off. The XT I use has no math chip, PC/IX on partition 1, and
DOS on partition 2.
Also, there is an occasional problem when shutdown is run, where the
system hangs before shutdown completes, leaving the root file system dirty
(even if I 'sync' before running shutdown).
About PC/IX in general, the implementation seems to be CPU-bound (70% cpu,
30% disk wait is typical). Has anyone tried a 808X or 286 CPU replacement
card such as the Titan PC Accelerator with PC/IX?
Lee Merrill ihnp4!tty3b
------------------------------
Date: 1-Aug-84
From: Ron Kuper <eng130%BostonU.BITNET@Berkeley>
Subject: Tab size under DOS and Wordstar
To: info-ibmpc@isib
Here's some relief for anyone who is fed up with 8-space tabs in DOS
and/or WordStar. I've done some digging about and have defined a few
patches that can be made to reduce the default DOS tab size to 4 characters,
and that will set WordStar's non-document "fixed" tab size to 4 characters.
Unfortunately, the DOS patches as of this point can only be made in memory;
I haven't had the time to find what actual module the patched code resides
in... maybe someone out there can help. Anyway, here are the patches:
DOS PATCHES:
While in DEBUG, type "U 0:432D". You should see as the first line of
code "OR AL,F8". If you do not see this, you must search memory for that
particular instruction. The idea is to change the "F8" to an "FC", thus
allowing for 4 spaces instead of 8. Anyway, once the code is found, type
in "E 0:432D FC" (or, E 0:YOURADDRESS FC).
Once you've done that, type "U 0:44BA". You should see as the first line
of code "MOV BL,07". Once again, if you don't see that, you must find that
code in memory. This instruction will be changed to a "MOV BL,3", so you
must type "E 0:44BB 3" to make the change.
As stated above, this is a one-time patch. To make this patch easier I
guess a small program could be written that will move the data into place.
A better solution would be the patch either IBMBIO or IBMDOS, whichever
file the above code resides in.
So, quickly again, its "E 0:432E FC" and "E 0:44BB 03"
WS PATCHES:
First, you must patch WS.COM, so type (of course) in "DEBUG WS.COM".
For this patch to work, the following instructions should be at the indicated
addresses, and you must change the instructions as indicated (either by typing
in the new code or directly substituting 3's for 7's):
XXXX:1433 AND AL,07 ...change to... AND AL,03
XXXX:2533 OR CL,07 ...change to... OR CL,03
XXXX:27FA AND AL,07 ...change to... AND AL,07
The "XXXX" 's shown will probably vary from system to system, so I do not
provide actual values. They will be some 4 digit hex number. After making
these changes, type "W" to re-save the newly patched version of WordStar.
Next, you must patch the file WSOVLY1.OVR, so type in "DEBUG WSOVLY1.OVR".
This time there is only one location to change:
XXXX:575E AND AL,07 ...change to... AND AL,03
And, of course, type in "W" to re-save the file.
That's all folks!!
------------------------------
Date: Thu 2 Aug 84 16:47:33-PDT
From: Steve Dennett <DENNETT@SRI-NIC.ARPA>
Subject: "Intuit" Integrated Software
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
The July 31 PC Week has a news item about an integrated software
package called "Intuit" for the PC, from Noumenon Corp. The kicker
is that Noumenon is trying to publicize "Intuit" by selling it for
$50 --until August 13, when the price goes up to $70. After that
the price will increase by $20 every week (presumably until it stops
selling or reaches the original list price of $395).
Has anyone read anything about this software or had any experience
with it? Reply soon!
Steve Dennett
------------------------------
Date: Thu 2 Aug 84 21:06:18-EDT
From: Joe Dioso <JFDIOSO%CUTC20@Columbia-20.Arpa>
Subject: Modula-2
To: ima%inmet%tower%CCA-UNIX@COLUMBIA-20.ARPA, Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB
Logitech is advertising a compiler for PC-DOS, MS-DOS, and CPM-86.
The ad is on page 409 of the July 84 Byte. They claim to provide a
"high-level symbolic debugger . . . multi-level overlays, 8087 support,
ROMable code, and a full library of standard modules . . ."
They can be reached at (415) 365-9852,
805 Veterans Boulevard
Redwood City, CA 94063.
------------------------------
Date: 2 Aug 84 8:34:22-PDT (Thu)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!brl-tgr!ron @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: 3COM UNET
If 3Com was smart, they'd give up on UNET! It's among the worst attempts
at TCP I've seen. Great if you want to talk to other UNET sites, not so
hot at talking to real internetters.
-Ron
------------------------------
Date: 1 Aug 84 17:28:01-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: decvax!ittvax!dcdwest!sdcsvax!rmr @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Disassembler
I have a public domain program called asmgen that is designed for
this purpose. If anyone is interested I can supply you with copies.
Robert Rother
------------------------------
Date: 1 Aug 84 9:01:03-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: decvax!mcnc!ecsvax!bet @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Mindset personal computer
The Mindset microcomputer is a personal computer with special graphics
capabilities. The initial concept came from the CAD/CAM workstations,
with their special-purpose graphics hardware. What Mindset ended up
with is an 80186 processor, and two graphics chips. One is the display
processor, and the other is a graphics coprocessor attached to the main
80186 CPU. It is fairly compatible with the IBM-PC, and runs most PC
software.
This micro isn't going to replace the IBM-PC, but might be a cheaper
alternative to much more expensive graphics systems for certain
applications. With the program Lumina, it is an effective tool for
presentation graphics work. At the same time it is a reasonably
powerful general-purpose microcomputer.
I find this product sort of refreshing to see: it *isn't* just another
"jump on the bandwagon" PC clone, it is a machine designed for a
special purpose, to do something new. Only within the framework of this
graphics engine personal computer did they make the rest of the design
decisions to make this thing compatible with the IBM-PC, and thus get a
flying leap on the software availability.
Bennett Todd
...{decvax,ihnp4,akgua}!mcnc!ecsvax!bet
------------------------------
Date: Sat, 4 Aug 84 01:20 EDT
From: Paul Schauble <Schauble@MIT-MULTICS.ARPA>
Subject: DTR control
To: Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
I am working on a specialized autodialer program written in Basic. The
program uses Basic I/O (OPEN..."COM1"...) to take control of a modem
with an auto dialer and to dial establish the connection. I would like
to have the program simply exit with "system" to drop the machine at
MS-DOS command level with the connection hanging. The operator would
then enter a favorite terminal emulator.
The problem is that when Basic encounters the "system" command, it closes
all open files. When the com file is closed, it drops DTR and the modem
hangs up.
Does anyone know of a way to exit Basic without closing the com file, or
at least without dropping DTR??
Thanks,
Paul
------------------------------
From: Allyn Fratkin <sdcsvax!allyn@Nosc>
Date: 3 August 1984 1612-PDT (Friday)
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib
Subject: PC/IX mailsystem
We have recently brought up PC/IX. What, if anything, have other users
of PC/IX done to improve the mail system?
We are interested in trading stories, horror or otherwise, with other
users of PC/IX out there. (There must be some!)
------------------------------
Date: Fri 3 Aug 84 16:24:08-EDT
From: Joseph M. Newcomer <NEWCOMER@TL-|<20B.ARPA>
Subject: Keyboard remapping
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
We've just acquired an IBM PC at home and both of us are finding the
keyboard layout disturbing (but for different reasons and different
keys). I've heard there is a program which allows one to respecify the
keyboard layout, particularly the control and shift keys. Alternatively,
or in addition, we might want to buy a keyboard. Going back thru old
issues of Byte is tedious, but I've gone back thru the last year and
haven't seen anything about the keyboard reprogrammer program. If anyone
knows about this (or better still has used it) I'd appreciate hearing
about it. Our local computer store claims to have some Keytronic keyboards
on order so I'm waiting to see one when they come in.
joe
------------------------------
Date: 9 Aug 84 10:39:00-EDT (Thu)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hp-pcd!bobm @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Keyboard mapping
INT10←END is on page A-26, line 1882 of my Tech Ref
(it has a "2.02" sticker on the spine) - right in the
middle of the INT 16H keyboard stuff. Makes sense, right?
Anyway, it's not much code:
INT10←END:
POP BX
POP DS
IRET
About the numeric 5 key - I'm not sure why that key is
ignored either. The key table for the base case keypad
(K15) has three special entries - the plus, minus and 5.
Plus and minus are handled in the bios, but 5 isn't.
It looks like someone either added a -1 to the keytable
and forgot to handle it, or they figured that it was base
case, and the 5 key didn't have any base legend, so it
didn't have any function! I don't know of any nice way
to fix the problem, short of writing your own keyboard int
routine.
Bob May
hplabs!hp-pcd!bobm
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 2 Aug 84 09:33:39 edt
From: shields@nyu-cmcl2 (David Shields)
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib
Subject: Keytronics keyboards
The 5150 has a lighter touch than the standard IBM PC keyboard and doesn't
click. It also has the SHIFT and RETURN keys in a more conventional location.
I have used a 5150 for well over a year with no problems. The 5151 has
the function keys on the top and also has a separate cursor keypad
between the alphabet keys and the regular cursor/numeric keypad. I have
only used a 5151 briefly, at the PC Expo in NY in June. I found the
ALT and CTRL keys to be a bit out of place. I think order is
CTRL SHIFT-LOCK A
ALT SHIFT Z
(Take a magnifying glass to one of the many Keytronics ads in PC
magazines to verify this layout).
I found that an annoying place for the SHIFT-LOCK, and said so to the
Keytronics person at the booth. He said they weren't sure about the
placement - perhaps they will change it. I purchased my 5150 from Qubie.
------------------------------
Date: Thu 2 Aug 84 10:44:23-PDT
From: Jackline <Burhans@ECLD.#ECLnet>
Subject: Keytronics Keyboards
To: Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
The 5150 is an 83 key keyboard similar to the PC's.
Of course the keys have text instead of symbols for the SHIFT, TAB,
etc. The RETURN key is in the familiar typewriter location and
the pipe-backslash key is not under foot (under finger?). Also the
CapsLock and NumLock keys have LED indicators so you will know
what's going on.
The 5151 is like the 5150 except it has 99 keys because the cursor
keys and the numeric keys are on separate keypads. This is
supposed to be so that you can type numbers and move the cursor
keys at the same time. It seemed like a good idea to me.
A Keytronics distributor is J.C. Sales in Canoga Park. The
person to talk to is Rob Cromar (818) 340-6136 he may have the
name of a dealer close to you. Of course if you are not
located on the west coast you can call Keytronics at 800-262-6006
to get the name of a distributor near you.
I bought a couple of Quadram boards from Micro Match (this was my
purchasing department's doing, I put a suggested vendor of PC
Connection) and had some trouble. First of all, they charged about
$330 for the board and I have seen them advertised in a number
of places for $269, secondly, they only sent me one because
Quadram was late shipping the boards to them. When they got
their shipment they sent me two boards. So now I have three
QuadBoards for my two PCs.
-------
------------------------------
Date: Thu 2 Aug 84 21:24:55-EDT
From: Joe Dioso <JFDIOSO%CUTC20@Columbia-20.Arpa>
Subject: Keytronics keyboards
To: ihnp4!cbosgd!!mark%ucb-vax@COLUMBIA-20.ARPA
cc: Info-IBMPC@ISIB.Arpa
The Keytronics 5150 is the "standard model"; improvements over the
IBM keyboard include LEDs on the num lock and caps lock keys, relocation
of the left shift key to the normal typewriter position, and labels
rather than legends on the tab, shift, and return keys. List price
is $209.
The 5151 puts the 10 function keys in two blocks above the keyboard.
In addition, there is a cursor key block between the alpha keys and
the numeric keypad:
insert delete
home ↑ page up
< >
end \/ pg down
The 5151 also has LEDs on the caps lock and num lock keys; moreover,
it has one for a cursor pad key. It has a "pause" key as well.
Unlike the 5150, the return, tab, and shift keys are double-width
on the striking surface as well as being labeled. One
is the interposition of a double width caps lock key between the
"A" key and the control key. List price for the 5151 is $255.
This info is obtained from an add on pages 104-5 of the July Byte.
-------
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 3 Aug 84 11:44:05 pdt
From: briggum@nprdc (Tom Briggum)
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib.ARPA
Subject: Keytronics Keyboard
Our organization bought a Keytronic 5150 and a 5151. The 5150
is an 3 key replacement for the IBM original. It has a soft touch as
opposed to the IBM click (I kind of prefer the click). What is an
improvement is the addition of LED lights on NUMLOCK and CAPSLOCK.
Also they reversed the position of the backslash and the left shift
key. The 5151 went further by enhancing the keyboard with an
additional 16 keys. Most of these are a separate cursor pad distinct
from the NUM keys. The layout is almost a clone of the IBM Selectric.
The return key is larger and horizontal. The caps lock is directly to
the left of the "a" key and the shift keys have been enlarged. The
backslash key has been moved to the right of the right shift key -
well out of the way of normal typing. Of course, in DOS 2.0 I have to
look every time I want to change directories. The 5151 is wider than the
original IBM or the 5150 keyboard. One nice touch is that the function keys
are laid out horizontally across the top rather than vertically along the
left.
I've had no problems with the 5151 but I recommend you read the
August 6 Infoworld review which says that the Keytronic keyboards don't
work correctly with Framework, dBASE III or Crosstalk XVI. I haven't
used any of these packages, so no comment.
Lawrence Goodall
NARDAC NORFOLK
(nrdcnrva@ddn2)
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 3 Aug 84 16:45:45 EDT
From: GMM Labs <eed←wgmm%jhu.csnet@csnet-relay.arpa>
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib.arpa
Subject: Keytronics keyboards
The Keytronics 5051 has a radically different (and I think improved) layout
from the 5050 (which is a PC layout clone). Both keyboards may require
you to remake templates--the 5051 definitely will.
My choice would be for the 5051 with one word of caution. I have been told
and have seen it in print that the 5051 does not work with Framework
(apparently a problem with different scan codes) and may have trouble with
Lotus Symphony. Since both of these are Proloked, I have no intention
of supporting either so it doesn't really matter. You may care, so you must
consider that possible inconvenience.
-Rick at MIT-MC
------------------------------
End of Info-IBMPC Digest
************************
-------
∂09-Aug-84 1319 INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #83
Received: from USC-ISIB.ARPA by SU-AI.ARPA with TCP; 9 Aug 84 13:19:07 PDT
Date: 9 Aug 1984 12:48:55 PDT
Subject: Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #83
From: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC: ;
Info-IBMPC Digest Thursday, 9 August 1984 Volume 3 : Issue 83
This Week's Editor: Richard Nelson
Today's Topics:
YTERM
Qubie Keyboard
.OBJ/.COM Files (2 msgs)
DTR Control in BASIC
PCjr Expansion Query
Keytronics Keyboards
Modula-2
PC/IX Public Domain Programs Query
IDS Paper Tiger Printer Query
Homebrew PC Query
Purchase of PC Query
MS-DOS 2.0 Query
Repeating Character Rate Query
RGB to Sears Monitor Query
Windows in BASIC Query
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: 31 Jul 84 21:57:04-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: decvax!mcnc!ecsvax!julian @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: YTERM
You want to start with IBM for information about this product, since the YALE
Ascii package for the Series/1 is an IUP which they support.
Should the support from IBM prove unsatisfactory, then you can call the people
at the YALE computing center for information. They are quite helpful at YALE.
I appreciated their help when I was installing the protocol conversion package
on a Series/1 with 64k (which they said couldn't be done!).
The source to the protocol conversion software is available for extra cost, and
that may also be true of the YALE Ascii packages for files transfer.
Phil Julian
ecsvax!julian
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 5 Aug 84 13:55-PDT
Date: 4 Aug 84 9:22:47-PDT (Sat)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!cbosgd!mark @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Qubie Keyboard
I just ordered and received a Qubie FF5150 keyboard. I'm having a
lot of trouble with it, and would appreciate input from others so
I can tell if I have a lemon or if all Qubie's are like this. Also,
I'd like to know if Keytronics keyboards have these problems.
I'm very impressed with Qubie's policies - I ordered it on Wednesday
by phone (cost is $169) and for an extra $7 they shipped it UPS Blue
Label - I had it on Friday. No extra charge for Visa. They also
advertise a free 30 day money back trial.
The keyboard layout is also excellent. It's claimed to be a
"Keytronics KB5150 lookalike" and as far as I can tell it is.
Shift and \ are swapped from the IBM layout, and the enter key
is horizontal, with the `~ key moved to the right of ]. There is
also a large ENTER key where the bottom 2/3 of the keypad + used to
be, and LED's in the num lock and caps lock keys. Several keys
(tab, ctrl both shifts, enter, backspace) have full-sized keys
instead of the "gotcha" keys on the IBM. There are still gotcha
keys on Alt, Caps Lock, Num Lock, Scroll Lock, Ins, and Del. There
are little nibs on the f, j, and 5 keys so your fingers know they
are in the home position; the f and j nibs are on the lower edge
of the key, so they don't annoy you the way dots in the center do.
The main problem is that the keyboard is far too stiff. When typing
on it, a substantial fraction of the characters I type don't register,
because I didn't press down far enough. In spite of a conscious effort
to press harder, I find I still miss a lot of characters and have to
go back and get them. This makes touch typing very hard as you have
to watch what appears on the screen and go back and fix problems.
The advertisement claims you get tactile feedback (the key click the
IBM keyboard has is gone.) I don't get any tactile feedback from the
Qubie. I expect tactile feedback to resemble the IBM selectric or
Teletype Dataspeed 40 keyboard - effort gradually gets harder as you
press the key down, then at the point where it registers you feel a
"breakthrough" as it suddenly gets easier. The point of registration
is clearly evident. With the Qubie, effort is constant (and high) until
the key is about 75% depressed; it registers at about the 70% point
(far too deep), and after 75% effort gets harder. It's as though you
had suddenly hit a rubber pad and were pressing into it. I expect a
keystroke to register somewhere around 30-50% of the travel distance,
and most other keyboards do.
The IBM keyboard has a little ridge above the keys, apparently intended
for placing the paper you're typing from on (like a typing stand). It's
also used for overlay templates, which are cut to hook around this ledge.
The Qubie has changed this - when moving from the bottom of the keyboard
to the top, there's a 1/4 inch sudden rise just past the top row of keys
(just like the IBM), but instead of an equally sudden 1/4 inch drop after
1/4 of ledge, it gradually slopes down to keyboard level at the top of
the keyboard. This makes the ledge useless for holding typing copy, and
prevents overlays from fitting onto the keyboard neatly. I can't figure
out any reason for this change. There is also a recessed slot for a label
near the right of this slanted area, about 5/8 inch by 2 3/4 inch, which
is blank. I wonder if Qubie OEM's these keyboards for someone else - you
don't suppose the Keytronics keyboard is made by Qubie?
A couple of packaging differences that don't seem to matter - the keyboard
is slanted, not by the two little side legs the IBM has, but by two little
metal things in the middle that remind me of those big paper clips with
the black metal clamps. They are harder to raise and lower, and the middle
position isn't available, but they work fine, and have rubber feet so they
won't slide around your desk quite as easily as the IBM. Also, the cord
comes out the back of the right side of the keyboard (the IBM's comes out
the left) so it wants to snake around the right side of your PC instead of
the left side.
I've noticed some reliability problems with my Qubie in one day's use.
Several times it's gone into what acts like a "shift lock" mode, where
everything is shifted. I can't reproduce it, but it seems to happen when
I hit the backslash key and shift key at the same time (I have some
unlearning of IBM habits to do), and it goes away when I press shift.
I've also had it go into a similar "control lock" mode twice - again,
pressing control clears it. This isn't documented so I assume it's a
bug rather than a feature. On four separate occasions, it's simply
generated the wrong character for me. For example, twice I've hit the
"t" key and it's put a "`" on the screen. Given the positions of these
characters on the screen and where my hands were at the time, there is
no way I could have hit "`" by mistake.
Anyway, I'd like to know if the Keytronics keyboards have these problems
as well, and if anyone out there who has a Qubie is having the same problems.
Mark Horton
mark@cbosgd.UUCP
cbosgd!mark
mark@Berkeley.ARPA
------------------------------
Date: 5 Aug 1984 17:40:13 PDT
Subject: XT Power Supply for PCII
From: Randy Cole <COLE@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
I have been using an XT power supply in my new PCII for a couple of weeks
and have had no problems. There are definitely several different suppliers
of XT power supplies. Mine is made by ASTEC, a well-known supplier to
Apple and IBM and others. I should point out that mine is a "genuine"
XT power supply purchased from IBM. I would think it unlikely that some
manufacturers' XT power supplies give problems with a PCII and not others,
but anything's possible, I guess.
Randy Cole
------------------------------
Date: Monday, 6 Aug 1984 12:49:07-PDT
From: waters%viking.DEC@decwrl.ARPA (Lester Waters)
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib.ARPA, jrodrig@mitre-gateway.ARPA
Subject: .OBJ/.COM Files
The relocatable object modules under MS-DOS are quite complex in nature.
As far as I can tell, segments are not necessarily contiguous. Instead,
there are link lists of pointers to the various parts of a segment. The
code that is actually generated is placed in the object module in the
same relative order in which it is defined. It is up to the LINKer to
concatenate segments of the same class together. Microsoft followed
Intel's object module format. For those of you who would like to read
further, obtain the "8086 RELOCATABLE OBJECT MODULE FORMATS" manual
(order number: 121748-001) from Intel. I found the manual to be difficult
reading, but seems to be the only info on the subject.
As for creating .COM files which are beginning at 0200h instead of 0100h,
try removing the ORG statement. CI's C86 assembler may be adding 0100h
to the base address. I have not heard of anyone else having this problem.
Do you have anything defined BEFORE your ORG statement?
- Lester Waters
------------------------------
Date: 6 Aug 1984 18:16:30 EDT (Monday)
From: jose rodriguez <jrodrig at mitre-gateway>
Subject: .OBJ/.COM files
To: waters%viking.DEC@decwrl
Cc: jrodrig at mitre-gateway, info-ibmpc@usc-isib
Well, the problem with the ORG 100h is that I am not including the
"END <main entry point>" statement in my code. I am not including this
statement because with it exe2bin would not convert the file. In the
other hand I have seen many pieces of code that use this statement and
their writters say their code can be com'ified without any problem.
What's going on? I don't know but I suspect that it is something to do
with having data segments separate from the code segment.
I have noted that all these examples include the data allocation
pseudo-ops with the code (the first instruction is a jump over
these data sections).
I have been thinking of doing some tests with code that can be com'ified.
I would add data segments to them. Anyway, I am afraid to say that it all
sounds quite bogus. Whenever I have more info I will post it.
Jose
------------------------------
Date: Mon 6 Aug 84 17:03:50-PDT
From: L. Brett Glass <G.GLASS@[36.48.0.1]>
Subject: DTR Control in BASIC
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
The simplest way to avoid hanging up when exiting BASIC is to turn off
the switch in your modem which causes it to be sensitive to DTR. If
you can't do that (either because your modem doesn't have the switch
or because you need it on for other purposes), perhaps the best thing
to do is to access the serial ports via assembly language. The INFO-IBMPC
library has the routines you need to do this....
--Brett Glass
<G.GLASS%LOTS-A@SU-SCORE.ARPA>
------------------------------
From: augeri%rpi.csnet@csnet-relay.arpa
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib.arpa
Subject: PCjr Expansion Query
Has anybody expanded the enhanced version of the PCjr (128K, disk drive) ?
If so, I would appreciate it very much any information. I'll summarize
any responses to the net.
Thanks, -- Ivan Auger --
CSNet: augeri@rpi
ARPAnet: augeri%rpi@csnet-relay
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Aug 84 10:23 MST
From: RStallworthy%pco@CISL-SERVICE-MULTICS.ARPA
Subject: Keytronics Keyboards
To: Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
I have heard of there being some difficulty with certain pieces of
software using the keytronics keyboard with a separate numeric keypad,
in this case attached to a Columbia (IBM-PC compatible) PC. Since the
real PC keyboard does not have this feature and does not know about the
separate keypad, this keypad must simulate the actual PC keyboard, and
hence simulates the entry of three keystrokes, namely shift, the key on
the regular keypad, and then an unshift. Apparently it does this at a
speed that is too fast for some software to handle.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 7 Aug 84 10:04:11 PDT
From: Adolfo Di-Mare <dimare@UCLA-LOCUS.ARPA>
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib.arpa
Subject: Modula-2
Volitron also offers a p-code Modula-2 compiler, and it has been reviewed
by Jerry Pournelle on Byte.
I have also heard that Turbo Modula-2 is coming up by the end of the
year (hopefully Very-Cheap-That's-Right!), but don't trust me on this rumor...
Adolfo
///
------------------------------
From: Allyn Fratkin <sdcsvax!allyn@Nosc>
Date: 7 August 1984 1713-PDT (Tuesday)
To: info-ibmpc-request@usc-isib
Subject: PC/IX Public Domain Programs Query
Hello, I am looking for public domain programs in the library that run
on PC/IX. Specifically I would like the astclock program. If there are any
other files, please send me a list of what is available. I am sorry
to bother you, but I do not have access to the arpanet.
Thanks very much,
Allyn Fratkin
UCSD Pascal Project
U.C. San Diego
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 7 Aug 84 17:05:14 EDT
From: Jake←Richter%RPI-MTS.Mailnet@MIT-MULTICS.ARPA
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Subject: IDS Paper Tiger Printer Query
Has anyone ever hooked up an IDS 440 Paper Tiger to an IBM PC
SERIALLY ? One of the professors here has two other computers
that he already has hooked up to the printer via a switch box, and he
would also like to add the PC to the box. I think the problem
might lie with the cable. If anyone has suggestions, please send
them my way. Thanks.
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 8-AUG-1984 18:33 EDT
From: ELAMJD%VPIVAX3.BITNET@Berkeley
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib
Subject: Homebrew PC Query
A friend of mine is getting ready to build a PC based on a Megaboard. Does
anyone out there have any suggestions as to the best way to approach it? He
is going to need chips and everything else, so if anyone has suggestions for
where he could obtain these at reasonable prices it would be appreciated.
He is looking at the turbo card from Orchid. Does anyone know anything about
it? Eagle has a machine that allows it's chip to change speeds so it can
be more compatible with the PC. What to they do, and how can it be done?
He wants, like everyone else, to be able to have as much computer for the
money, and yet retain IBM compatibility as much as possible. Any useful
information I receive will be sent back to the net. Thanks in advance.
Danny Elam
Elamjd at vpivax3 on Bitnet.
------------------------------
Date: 8 Aug 1984 11:35 EDT (Wed)
From: Rich Robbins <ROBBINS%MIT-OZ@MIT-MC.ARPA>
Subject: Purchase of PC Query
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA, robbins%MIT-OZ@MIT-MC.ARPA
I am interested in purchasing a PC, if my primary requirements can be
met. Here they are:
1) EMACS or EMACS like text editor
2) VT-100 terminal emulator with Vadic 1200 baud protocol support
3) File transfer support with the Vadic protocol
I would also like to be able to do some local hacking and therefore
the following would also be nice:
4) Scribe like text formatter
5) Lisp or C or Modula-2
I know very little about PC's. How can my needs be met? How much
memory should I get? Do I need a hard disk?
Please reply to ROBBINS@MIT-OZ (I'm not on this list yet)
Thanks in advance!
------------------------------
Date: Wed 8 Aug 84 19:21:20-PDT
From: L. Brett Glass <GLASS@SU-SIERRA.ARPA>
Subject: MS-DOS 2.0 Query
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
I am attempting to write a communications package that installs itself
(sets up interrupt vectors, buffers, etc.), invokes the application program
that uses it, and cleans up when the application terminates. I have been
through the Microsoft documentation, but cannot fathom the arcane
references to "releasing" memory for use by the called task. I also
need to find a reliable way of passing the (actual) addresses of the
communications routines to the application, so they can be called from
there. (I was considering using interrupts, but became concerned that
the code might not be portable).
Does anyone on the net have experience with this sort of problem? If so,
please reply by mail and I will organize and post the results.
--Brett Glass
<GLASS@SU-SIERRA.ARPA>
------------------------------
Date: 7 Aug 84 19:20:01-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!sdcrdcf!trwrba!escher!noao!jacoby @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Repeating Character Rate Query
I seem to vaguely recall that there is a way to alter the
rate at which the PC keyboard generates repeating characters.
Does anyone know how or recollect where this information
may be found? I find the rate to be somewhat too slow for
my preferences.
Thanks,
George
ihnp4!noao!jacoby
------------------------------
Date: 7 Aug 84 9:39:55-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!tektronix!ogcvax!metheus!teneron!shanks @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: RGB to Sears Monitor Query
Has anyone out there successfully hooked up the IBM RGB output to the
new Sears 13 inch TV/Monitor (see your Fall '84 Catalog)? Or does
anyone know why this could not be done?
Any pointers will be greatly appreciated as I am considering doing
this. By the way, I will be using the Quadram Quadcolor board in place
of the IBM color board.
Posted for Tom Kapfer ..!teneron!tomk
Dave Shanks ..!tektronix!ogcvax!metheus!teneron!shanks
Teneron Corp.
6700 SW 105th Suite 200
Beaverton, OR 97005
(503) 646-1599
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 9-AUG-1984 09:02 EDT
From: ELAMJD%VPIVAX3.BITNET@Berkeley
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib
Subject: Windows in BASIC Query
Does anyone out there know of a way to create multiple windows in Basic?
It is easy to create a single window using an assembly sub-routine that
copies one part of the screen to another place in memory and replaces that
with information from somewhere else. The problem comes when you try and
create another sub-routine to call from Basic. It loads over the first
window routine. Does anyone know how to get around this?
Danny Elam @vpivax3
------------------------------
End of Info-IBMPC Digest
************************
-------
∂14-Aug-84 1001 INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #84
Received: from USC-ISIB.ARPA by SU-AI.ARPA with TCP; 14 Aug 84 10:00:34 PDT
Date: 14 Aug 1984 09:01:18 PDT
Subject: Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #84
From: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC: ;
Info-IBMPC Digest Tuesday, 14 August 1984 Volume 3 : Issue 84
This Week's Editor: Richard Nelson
Today's Topics:
Welcome to New Editors
Epsilon: Another EMACS Clone
Directory Path Program: SCOUT
XT and PC-NET from Santa Clara Systems
Intuit Integrated Software
PC/IX Mailsystem Announcement
PC and Other Micro Personalities - Dimension 68000
MS DOS Linker and Public Symbols: BIGLINK
(Almost-Public)-Domain PC/IX Software
DOS 2.0 I/O Redirection (2 msgs)
PC/IX Port Problems
MS FORTRAN / LINK with Libraries Problem
Vadic Modem and PC-Talk III Problem
COMPAQ to Okidata/Plug&Play Compatibility Problem
OKIDATA to IBM PC Serial Hookup Query
Framework for Zenith 150 Query
Framework and Symphony Query
Maynard Hard Disk, ASTEC Power Supply Queries
XT vs PC + Hard Disk Add-on Query
DOS Calls from Interrupt Routine Query
PC-DOS 2.0 RAMdisk Driver Modification Query
Cheap, Simple Database Program Query
PC Graphics Libraries (FORTRAN, C) Query
lint Program for PC Query
modem7 for PC Query
PCjr Speed-Up Query
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: 9 Aug 1984 18:24:44 PDT
Subject: Welcome to New Editors
From: Billy <BRACKENRIDGE@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: info-iBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
I want to take this opportunity to welcome three new editors to INFO-IBMPC:
Dwight Baker (DBAKER@ISIB), Richard Nelson (NELSON@ISIB), and Eliot Moore
(ELMO@ISIB).
Dwight Baker and Richard Nelson work at Hughes Aircraft Electro Optical
Group doing in house PC related consulting. Eliot Moore works for a data
processing firm in Van Nuys.
A month ago we sent out a plea for help with INFO-IBMPC. It was just too much
for two of us to do. INFO-IBMPC nearly went out of business until these three
stepped in to help. Hopefully with four of us we can respond more thoroughly
to user requests and maintain the quality of editorship.
------------------------------
Date: 9 Aug 1984 16:34:52 PDT
Subject: Epsilon: Another EMACS Clone
From: Billy <BRACKENRIDGE@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
We recently received yet another EMACS clone for the IBM-PC. This
one is called Epsilon and is from Lugaru Software in Pittsburgh. This
product is clearly superior to Mince from Mark of the Unicorn, and
while I can't claim it is superior to Gosling EMACS from Unipress
Epsilon fits my needs and is better matched to a floppy disk based
system and is closer to Tops-20 EMACS than the larger Gosling Emacs.
The first thing that strikes the user is that Epsilon is very fast.
While it is written in Lattice C (as are the other two Emacs clones)
it uses direct screen writes and seems to have an intelligent screen
update algorithm such that only the minimum need be updated.
It appears that Lugaru software has completely rewritten the keyboard
driver as the ALT key works as a true Meta key and can be used in
conjunction with control and shift to provide just about any key
combination one would ever want. One side effect of this practice is
that things like Borland Sidekick or Scroll-Mate or Codesmith86 won't
work with this program. All these programs install themselves and scan
keyboard input for specific key combinations. Since Lugaru has taken over
the interrupt vectors you can't do things like dial your smart modem
or look at your calendar from inside Epsilon.
Epsilon includes command and file name completion similar to Tops-20
or the new Kermit. It is a bit unnerving that when escaping on a
buffer name the buffer switch happens so fast that it leaves the user
a bit confused. Also the Lugaru programmers seem not to like the
bell. If you mis-type a file, command, or buffer name and Epsilon
can't find a match it just sits there. While escape echoes as a space
when no match is found, I would prefer the option of having it echo
as a bell.
The Help system is quite extensive and context sensitive just like
real EMACS. The disk also comes with a TEACH file which should get
the novice running quickly.
Epsilon has an incremental search which includes the recursive edit
feature.
Epsilon will use all of available memory and will create a swap file
as necessary for very large files. I tried editing a couple of dozen
large files at once and got bored before I could make Epsilon slow down
significantly.
While Epsilon isn't extensible in the manner of the Teco or Mlisp based
systems, it has keyboard macros, and functions can easily be bound to
any key. It is possible to name macros and save them to disk or read
them in on initialization. As Epsilon uses environment variables for
path names in an intelligent fashion finding libraries or help files
on a hard disk system is trivial.
Epsilon requires at least a 192K system, but the program only takes
up 72K of disk space plus another 50K for the documentation files.
The price is $150 retail.
Comparing Epsilon and Gosling EMACS is a bit like the old apples and
oranges problem. Epsilon tries to be like Tops-20 EMACS while Gosling
EMACS includes many of the Unix operating system functions as part of
its run time environment. There are many things Unipress' Gosling
EMACS can do Epsilon can't do. The sophisticated EMACS user would
probably prefer Unipress' EMACS, however I find Epsilon meets my needs.
Lugaru Software Ltd.
Box 11037
Pittsburgh, PA
(412)621-5911
------------------------------
From: Paul Crumley <cmuitca!pgc@cmu-cs-h.arpa>
Date: 10 Aug 1984 11:32-EST
Subject: Directory Path Program: SCOUT
To: Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Hello,
I would like to bring a new product to the attention of PC/XT users.
SCOUT, a product of Computer Insights, is a program that works with
DOS 2.X forming "paths" to be searched for all files, not just .EXE,
.COM, and .BAT.
SCOUT does this by mapping subdirectories to "imaginary" (Computer
Insights word) drives. These drives use the remaining drive letters.
For example on a regular XT, DOS has A:, B:, and C: drives so you
could use D: thru Z: as imaginary drives. This concept of imaginary
drives is what makes SCOUT so powerful. There are three main
ways to use imaginary drives.
1) You can use an imaginary drive anywhere you would use a regular
drive letter. This lets you due DOS 2.X programs without constantly
changing the current directory. It can also save a great deal of
typing when using long paths.
2) You can have imaginary drives searched for any type of file such as
profile and data files in a manner similar to the DOS 2.X PATH
which works for .EXE, .COM, and .BAT files. This allows you to keep
files such as profiles for editors in one subdirectory rather than
placing them in each subdirectory where you use the editor. SCOUT
saves disk space and the hassle of keeping such things up-to-date.
3) You can declare imaginary drives as READ-ONLY. This can be very
useful. One good example of this function is to define the root
directory as an imaginary drive and make the imaginary drive your
current directory. Since the root is READ-ONLY you can't do crazy
things like FORMAT it by accident while you can always refer to it
as C:\.
I have been using SCOUT for about 4 months and would now be lost without
it. I have found NO bugs or strange side effects with ANY software.
CMU appears to find SCOUT useful as they are bundling SCOUT in with
standard configurations of XTs for campus use. I personally recommend
SCOUT to anyone with a hard disk to keep in order.
SCOUT is available directly form Computer Insights for $24.95, and they
pay shipping.
Computer Insights' address is:
Computer Insights
P.O. Box 110097
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
Paul Crumley
CMU/ITC
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 11 Aug 84 12:10-PDT
Date: 10 Aug 84 19:45:40-PDT (Fri)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!gargoyle!oddjob!cathy @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: XT and PC-NET from Santa Clara Systems
My boss recently bought PC-NET from Santa Clara Systems. It looked
great -- it would let us run off our XT from the next lab, sharing the
hard disk, etc. However, when we installed the card that ran the
software, we found that our modem, plotter, and, in fact, everything
we ran off our COM2: port (we have a box that lets us run 4 things
out of one async port) was confused -- the stuff we sent out the port
was fine, but what we received was absolute garbage !!!
I had been away for a week or so, so I thought that perhaps the users (!)
had somehow trashed the system. However, I eventually read the PC-Net
documentation and found out that ther are two (2) ways that you can
configure their board:
1) Use hardware interrupts 2 & 5
2) Use interrupts 2 & 3
So I checked the Technical Reference Manual and lo and behold:
1) Interrupt 5 is the Fixed disk interrupt
(don't want to mess with that!)
2) Interrupt 3 in the Asynchronous Communications interrupt (secondary)
(can't mess with that either !)
So what's a girl to do but send the !%#@↑*# thing back
(Fortunately we hadn't actually paid for it yet :-) )
------------------------------
Date: Sun, 12 Aug 84 18:03 EDT
From: Kennedy@RADC-MULTICS.ARPA
Subject: Intuit Integrated Software
To: INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
I've had about five hours or so to try out a copy of "Intuit" by
Noumenon Corp. I recall that someone asked about this software recently
and they were very anxious to hear about the package as there is a
special introductory price offer.
Intuit is an integrated software package designed for IBM-PC machines.
(I'm not sure if it is runnable on clones or is MS-DOS compatible). It
uses the function keys F1 to F10, and shift-Function keys; as well as
the keypad to implement cursor control and function requests. Color
display is not supported. There appears to be a very flexible
capability to support various printers. The documentation is fairly
good. As is characteristic of the integrated packages, there is a high
degree of commonality between the key functions in the various
application packages.
The package does not run under DOS. The disks appear to be able to be
backed-up. There are instructions for its installation on a hard disk
system, although I used it in a floppy only system. Loading the
software is a two disk/step process.
Intuit runs under its own system which provides a tree structured
directory system. Directories can be nested somewhere around 12 or so
deep before some copy functions begin to fail (according to the manual).
Directories can contain files corresponding to text, form letters (and
templates for reports), data base files, tables, and other directories.
Intuit provides a reasonably good, although basic, screen editor. It
supports the typical entry, cursor control, editing, search and replace
functions; but no macros or other frills. Associated with the package
is a text formatter which utilizes "dot" commands to drive the
formatting. Formatting functions are similar (though less powerful) to
DEC RUNOFF with chapter, section, paragraph, and list type commands.
The formatting operations are shared with an output processor which
provides such actions as justification, pagination, and printer
configuration and control.
A data base or data retrieval system is supported. This provides forms
data entry and report generation, and supports searching, sorting, and
data record collecting in accordance with search criterion applied to
the data fields. Two keys are supported for sorting. The data file
function can be utilized to provide records of insert data for a
mailmerge-type mailing list application. I don't know the size
limitations nor have a feel for its speed yet.
There is a "table" function which looks on first glance like a
spreadsheet. It sure isn't! The capacity is 200 x 65 elements. It
seems to be an extension of the data base system with a matrix-like
window to look at the record fields. Computations are provided by
writing procedures which specify arithmetic functions applied to the
data elements. The procedure is invoked by commanding Intuit to "do"
the procedure. Procedure nesting is allowed. No computations are done
automatically as data is entered ala standard spreadsheets. An example
of a computation is "ADD field THRU field = sumfield". I think this
part of the package is pretty clumsy and hard to use.
While my experience with this package is very limited, I feel that this
is very useful as a "starter" package which will support most of the
general purpose applications that a new microcomputer user might want.
Before long, however, they would soon want the greater power of the
stand-alone packages or more powerful and expensive integrated packages
becoming available. On the other hand, you can't beat the value for the
introductory price, or even the anticipated next few increments of price
increase.
Kennedy%RADC-MULTICS
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 13 Aug 84 0:57-PDT
Date: 9 Aug 84 21:08:34-PDT (Thu)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: decvax!cca!ima!ism780!isc.net @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: PC/IX Mailsystem Announcement
INmail/INnet/FTP, the INTERACTIVE Message and Network System, has
been made available for PC/IX by IBM as of Aug 8, 1984. Orders can
be placed with your local IBM branch office. The program number is
6410976 and the feature code is 9217.
INmail/INnet/FTP, which is closely integrated with INed, the PC/IX
screen editor, provides all the features of an electronic mail
system and allows queued transfer of electronic messages and files
between remote and/or co-located computers. Remote printing is also
provided.
--isc.net (ima!ism780!isc.net) INTERACTIVE Systems Corp.
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 13 Aug 84 2:05-PDT
Date: 7 Aug 84 12:29:11-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!alberta!auvax!martin @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: PC and Other Micro Personalities - Dimension 68000
For those of you who don't know, there is an article about this
marvelous machine in the August (I think) issue of Computing Now!.
What they describe is truly a great machine. It can be just about
whatever you want it to be. Plug in a 6502 board and it is an
Apple, more so than a lot of the lookalikes/workalikes/clones etc.
It supports all of the Apple calls to monitor routines (Also runs
Zaxon which apparently the clones don't do so well). Plug in an
8088 and you have an IBM PC that runs like an IBM. Or run the
software that has been designed for it.
Obviously, you pay the price for this technology, you could buy an
actual Apple or IBM PC for less than the Dimension but of course
then you wouldn't have the versatility.
Don Martin (auvax!martin)
Athabasca University
------------------------------
Date: Thursday, 9 Aug 1984 18:08:17-PDT
From: goldberg%viking.DEC@decwrl.ARPA
(Marshall R. Goldberg LJ02/E4 DTN 282-2325)
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib.ARPA
Subject: MS DOS Linker and Public Symbols: BIGLINK
Several issues ago someone asked about a linker that would handle
large numbers of publics.
Microsoft ships just such a product to its OEM customers. We use
it for linking together GW-BASIC which has a very large number of
publics. I would recommend contacting Microsoft and asking them
whether BIGLINK is available as a product. I use if for all
linking now, small or large. The banner on the version we now
use is:
Microsoft Object Linker V2.02 (Large)
(C) Copyright 1982, 1983 by Microsoft Inc.
This linker is very fast. Before BIGLINK was available we were forced
to use PLINK. PLINK took over 45 minutes to link a moderate sized
GW-BASIC. BIGLINK does the same job in less then 10 minutes !!
Marshall R. Goldberg
------------------------------
Date: Fri 10 Aug 84 22:25:58-PDT
From: Herm Fischer <HFISCHER@USC-ECLB.ARPA>
Subject: (Almost-Public)-Domain PC/IX Software
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Responding to a recent query for "Public-Domain" PC/IX Software:
These items all have "hitches", so I call them "almost-public" domain.
VI: A version of the VI editor has been customized so that it operates
within the PC/IX context. Supports Logitech mouse, keyboard
cursor arrows, PgUp/Dn, Home/End, etc.
Ada: A version of Gerry Fisher's (NYU's) "validated" grammar for
YACC, with accompanying LEX and other files, can be used as is
to syntax check Ada programs, and can be instrumented with
"C" insertions to make pretty printers, design language checkers,
etc. Requires access to a VAX to re-YACC though can be used as
compiled on the PC.
Prolog: Univ. of New South Wales interpreter has complete full syntax.
Distributed in "C" source. I hacked it up to add "TPLOT" graphics
so a logic program can describe circles, lines, labels, and the like
and see them on the PC screen.
LISP: An East-Coast University LISP supposedly operational on PC/IX.
Distributed untried, but said to work.
The others have hitches, so I can only pass them out on floppy when
accompanied by the requisite paperwork.
For VI, though its authors swear it is public domain, the
Regents of the U of C (who paid the bills and distribute BSD
stuff) want not to upset AT&T. AT&T claims that VI is "now"
considered part of UNIX, and my company's license with AT&T thus
requires that I only distribute the VI to folks who possess a valid
source license. If you want the VI from me, xerox a valid source
license signature page and send it to me with your floppies. Or,
find somebody else who has a different agreement with AT&T and
can distribute the binaries. (Again, incredible as it seems,
my company's particular license allows me to pass out source, but
prevents me from passing out binaries.) (Also suggest bugging IBM
to do the binary distribution for me. They have access to my sources.)
For the Ada grammar, if you have a VAX and a UUCP link to PC/IX, take
the stuff from [eclb]:<HFischer>ada.y, lex.in, main.h, makeada,
makelexyacc, and y.statistics. Don't forget you need access to YACC
sources to remake them for proper table size. (I can distribute these
if you have the magic source license, as above.) (Table size
requirements in y.statistics.)
If you want the "C" output from YACCing the Ada grammar on my
company's VAX, to "cc" on PC/IX, contact me personally.
For Prolog, send me a properly signed sheet of paper which commits
your organization to use the Prolog interpreter only for research and
educational purposes, and states that it will not be redistributed.
The program's author (Claude Sammut) requires that I collect these.
(If you have a commercial use, contact me personally.)
For LISP, by all appearances, the product in my possession is in
the Public Domain, and I have looked for any indication in the
product that would imply to the contrary. (The person who gave
it to me claimed that it was in the public domain.)
Herman Fischer, Litton Data Systems, 8000 Woodley, ms 44-30,
Van Nuys, CA 91409
[Readers: Please contact the author of this message directly if you
are interested in the above-listed software. INFO-IBMPC
displays this message for information only, making no
guarantees, and will NOT act as an agent. -ed.]
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 11 Aug 84 0:44-PDT
Date: 8 Aug 84 21:34:07-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!ut-sally!utmbvax!shell!starr @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: DOS 2.0 I/O Redirection Query
Does anyone know how to tell (within a program) if stdin and/or stdout
are under redirection or pipes?
I have seen this in UNIX, and figure there *must* be a way under MS-DOS,
since it represents a "smooth bridge to UNIX"!
Thanks,
Bob Starr
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 10 Aug 84 23:27-PDT
Date: 9 Aug 84 21:02:46-PDT (Thu)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!rlgvax!cvl!jcw @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: DOS 2.0 I/O Redirection
Since in DOS 2.0 there is no difference between a pipe and redirection,
(except that pipe file names follow the %PIPEx.$$$ convention) you
can't tell the difference in a program, but you can tell whether
either stdin or stdout has been redirected through the IOCTL (int 21/44)
call [DOS manual, d-39]. Just do a get device information call on
file handles 0 and 1, and look at the ISDEV bit on each. If it is 0,
you know it has been redirected. To distinguish whether i/o has
been sent to another device, with ISDEV=1 look at ISCOT (is console
output) and ISCIN (is console input).
Jay Weber
..!seismo!rlgvax!cvl!jcw
jcw@cvl.arpa
..!seismo!rochester!jay
jay@rochester.arpa
------------------------------
From: <bang!crash!bblue@Nosc>
Date: Thu, 9 Aug 84 22:48:55 pdt
Subject: PC/IX Port Problems
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib
There definitely seem to be some port related problems with PC/IX. Not
only the run-PC/IX-after-MSDOS problem Lee Merrill spoke of, but other
somewhat mysterious conditions where tty0 or tty1 will get into a wedged
state and refuse further commands. An attempt to shutdown at that point
will cause shutdown to sit quietly for close to a minute, print the
message "init: something won't die%s", and then MAYBE finish the shutdown.
I had a number of interesting(?) problems bringing it up on a Compaq, but
found ways around most of the problems. I'd really like to hear from
others with these types of experiences.
One problem that is still plaguing me is a behavior problem with certain
utility programs *only* when used from tty0 or tty1. They're fine from
the local console. Seems that any extra characters entered after
the final c/r of the password prompt and before the system types to you
when using login, su or passwd will kill the port. You can still send
to it and the machine will respond (you'd only know that if it were
right next to you), but no output of any kind comes from the port. Once
you have disconnected, the port is in its famous wedged state and nothing
at all seems to clear it. Only solution at that point is a one minute
shutdown (described above). IBM says its because PC/IX isn't running on
an IBM! What help.
For example: login: yourid<c/r> password: yourpass<c/r> <c/r>
will kill it every time. Anything entered at the point of the second c/r
after your password, but before you receive more output from PC/IX on
any of the three utilities I mentioned will do it.
I'm using the MicroLine BabyBlue II board for both ports. It works
flawlessly in MS-DOS.
Any suggestions? (please mail me directly, and I'll summarize if necessary)
--Bill Blue {sdcsvax, sdchema, ihnp4}!bang!crash!bblue
------------------------------
From: avi@SU-ISL (Abraham Weinreb)
Date: 11 Aug 84 00:28:30 PDT (Sat)
To: Info-IBMPC%usc-isib.arpa@sierra
Subject: MS FORTRAN / LINK with Libraries Problem
Trying to link some object files (the results of MS-Fortran 3.xx
compilations) with several libraries (which include assembly
and Fortran modules) I have encountered sensitivity of the
results to the order of the libraries' specification.
When the fortran.lib was specified LAST (after my two libraries)
the resulting program worked fine.
When the fortran.lib was specified first, the linking process
completed without complaints, but the resulting code bombed.
It seems that the COMMONS of the various subroutines are not aligned
correctly when the fortran.lib is specified first.
One library I was using is a commercial one, used for graphics. The
second one was constructed from fortran object modules, using MS-LIB.
The same problem happens when using Link 2.01 with Fortran 3.13, and Link 2.40
with Fortran 3.20.
Has anybody encountered a similar problem ? Any guess as to the cause ?
Is the placement of fortran.lib as the last library a reliable cure ?
Thanks in advance, Avi Weinreb, I.S.L, EE Dept. Stanford University.
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 11 Aug 84 9:58-PDT
Date: 8 Aug 84 8:15:55-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From:
ihnp4!houxm!mhuxl!ulysses!burl!clyde!watmath!utzoo!garyglad @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Vadic Modem and PC-Talk III Problem
I am presently using an IBM PC DOS 2.1, PC-TALK III and a Racal Vadic
Modem VA3451AD hooked up to the PC with a Forte board. I am having
problems getting PC-TALK to autodial numbers for me. I can dial
numbers with the Racal Vadic in Manual, and issuing CTRL-E <ret>
D <ret>, and then the phone number.
I tried giving those commands for pc-talk autodial, but to no avail.
Would anyone familiar with the Racal Vadic or PC-TALK III please
let me know how to autodial from PC-TALK's menu.
Thanks for your help;
Gary Gladstone @ U of Toronto Zoology
{allegra,ihnp4,linus,decvax}!utzoo!garyglad
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 10 Aug 84 20:43-PDT
Date: 9 Aug 84 5:25:02-PDT (Thu)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: decvax!ittvax!wxlvax!rlw @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: COMPAQ to Okidata/Plug&Play Compatibility Problem
When we connected my Okidata92 with the Plug&Play roms to my son's COMPAQ
it printed much garbage (in which was embedded the true data) when we tried
to do a screen dump. Similar results occurred with program output.
Son has since bought an EPSON which seems to work fine. Has anyone else
experienced this phenomenon? The Oki works fine with my IBM PC, by the way.
--Dick Wexelblat (...decvax!ittvax!wxlvax!rlw)
------------------------------
Date: Mon 13 Aug 84 09:23:49-PDT
From: Jacqueline <Burhans@ECLD.#ECLnet>
Subject: OKIDATA to IBM PC Serial Hookup Query
To: MEAD@ECLB.#ECLnet, info-pc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Has anybody out there got any experience connecting an OKIDATA (82A)
to an IBM PC serially? I need to know how to set up the cable. I have all
the documentation for the OKIDATA but not the async documentation for the
PC. Thanks in advance.
------------------------------
Date: Thu 9 Aug 84 11:29:17-PDT
From: ALFIERI@ECLD.#ECLnet
Subject: Framework for Zenith 150 Query
To: info-pc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Does anyone know if Framework will run on the new
(IBM compatible) Zenith 150 computer? I purchased
this machine because it is VERY compatible, but --
of course -- salespeople don't have the answer to
my question. And certainly don't want to spend
the money without the facts.
And help is appreciated. By the way, I am presently
working with dBASE III and will soon give a few
comments about it to the net.
vince alfieri
computing information services
usc
alfieri@usc-ecld
------------------------------
Date: 9 Aug 84 15:24 PDT
From: mike@LOGICON.ARPA
To: INFO-IBMPC@ISIB
Subject: Framework and Symphony Query
Here at Logicon, we are debating the purchase of either Framework or
the Symphony. If I remember correctly, there have been a few articles
in the rags that have panned Symphony pretty badly.
What I really need though are for those of you who have used either
of these products to provide some information as to whether they are
worth purchasing.
Would appreciate comments to this ARPA net address as soon as possible.
and will return a consensus of the notes I have received later.
Thanks for your help (in advance)..
Mike Parker
{alias mike@logicon on ARPA}
------------------------------
Date: Thu 9 Aug 84 18:14:43-PDT
From: Jacqueline <Burhans@ECLD.#ECLnet>
Subject: Maynard Hard Disk, ASTEC Power Supply Queries
To: Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
I have recently installed a Maynard Electronics 10MB internal hard
disk in my IBM PC. Does anyone have any experience with these hard
disks and have you had any problems with them. I am using the ME WS1
SandStar controller card. It was fairly easy to install and seems
to be working fine so far although it seems a little noisy when
something is being read from or written to the disk. However,
I don't have any experience with other hard disks so I don't know whether
that is unusual. I am particularly interested in any problems with
the PC power supply and the hard disk. Also, someone mentioned buying
an XT power supply for their PC from ASTEC--any information on prices,
installation?
------------------------------
Date: 10 Aug 1984 07:39 EDT (Fri)
From: Rich Robbins <ROBBINS%MIT-OZ@MIT-MC.ARPA>
Subject: XT vs PC + Hard Disk Add-on Query
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
I have not been able to get at KWIC-INDEX.TXT, so I'll throw this one
out to the world ...
How do PC's with a hard disk added later (either internally or
externally) differ from an XT. What are the major drawbacks of adding
a disk instead of buying an XT. Assume that I don't need the disk now
but that I might need one within a year or so.
Rich Robbins
(A pointer to an answer is just as good as an answer.)
------------------------------
Date: 10 Aug 1984 2121-EDT
From: Larry Campbell <LCAMPBELL at DEC-MARLBORO>
To: info-ibmpc at USC-ISIB
Subject: DOS Calls from Interrupt Routine Query
Has anyone ever successfully written an interrupt routine for MS-DOS
that issues DOS calls? I'm trying to do this with a routine that's
patched into my clock interrupt. I know about the in-DOS-flag, and
obey it, but my DOS still goes belly up. If I merely remove all DOS
calls, though, my interrupt routine works perfectly. (I know it's
getting called because after it installs itself, it runs COMMAND.COM
for me... when COMMAND.COM returns it deinstalls itself and tells
me how many times it was called.)
A possible related question: is there some magic rule that says
programs such as this, and terminate-and-stay-resident programs,
must be .COM files? Mine's an .EXE file (written in CI-C86).
There must be something obscure I'm missing. I have it 99% right,
because as long as I refrain from calling DOS everything's hunky dory.
What are the magic incantations I need?
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 10 Aug 84 18:28-PDT
Date: 9 Aug 84 7:54:35-PDT (Thu)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!rlgvax!cvl!umcp-cs!aplvax!pmg @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: PC-DOS 2.0 RAMdisk Driver Modification Query
I am trying to modify the RAMdisk device driver provided,
as an example, by IBM with DOS2.0. I am trying to create
a 360k byte RAMdisk device driver so that a large data
file (260k bytes) can be moved to RAM.
I have tried modifying a .COM version of the program using
the debugger. Specifically I have changed:
sectors/allocation unit from 1 to 2
number of directory entries from 64 to 112
total number of sectors from 360 to 720
media descriptor from 0fcH to 0fdH
I made these changes in both the table starting at an offset
of 0016H and the table at an offset of 003bH.
After these changes were finishing the system was
rebooted with the device driver defined in config.sys as
appropriate. The reboot finished successfully; execution of
chkdsk c: verifies that the 360k byte disk was created;
but whenever I try to copy more than 180k bytes of files to
the RAM disk the system locks up.
Obviously I have done something wrong, but I am running out of ideas.
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
Please send mail to me and I will post the solution to the net if
there is interest.
Thanks for any help,
Mike
P. Michael Guba
...decvax!harpo!seismo!umcp-cs!aplvax!pmg
...rlgvax!cvl!umcp-cs!aplvax!pmg
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 11 Aug 84 9:56-PDT
Date: 7 Aug 84 6:03:37-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From:
ihnp4!houxm!mhuxl!ulysses!burl!clyde!watmath!utzoo!hcrvax!dan @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Cheap, Simple Database Program Query
I am looking to purchase a simple database program for my church. It is
merely to handle one file, a membership file, with some indicators for
membership in committees etc., and maybe donations info.
It should be quite cheap (at least under $200, preferably under $100). Ease
of operation is essential, and ease of setup, since they may not always
have me around to help them with it if they want any additions or changes
to the setup and reports. It should be able to do mailing labels, or a full
printout of the membership, with selections for membership on committees
etc.
If anyone has practical experience of a suitable DB, I'd appreciate it if
they got back to me by mail. Please describe the system a bit, give the
price (specify US or Canadian) and tell me how to order a copy.
Thanks muchly in advance for your help!
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 11 Aug 84 16:15-PDT
Date: 10 Aug 84 12:07:22-PDT (Fri)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!cmcl2!lanl-a!lpm @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: PC Graphics Libraries (FORTRAN, C) Query
Does anybody know of any graphics libraries for the IBM PC for C
or FORTRAN programming?
Lauren McGavran
MS B265
Los Alamos National Laboratory
PO Box 1663
Los Alamos, NM 87545
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 11 Aug 84 17:00-PDT
Date: 8 Aug 84 9:57:00-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hp-pcd!hp-dcd!hpcnoe!carl @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: lint Program for PC Query
Anybody out there know of a lint that runs on the IBM PC?
Carl Dierschow / CNO
303 226-3800
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 13 Aug 84 1:01-PDT
Date: 9 Aug 84 13:17:02-PDT (Thu)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ucsfcgl!harrison @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: modem7 for PC Query
There was an old version around that did not do any dialing or
have terminal emulation.
Is there any improved version?
Also, does anyone know of a program implementing the XMODEM protocol
on a PDP 11/70 running iAS operating system.
Please reply by mail.
harrison@ucsfcgl.UCSF
ucbvax!ucsfmis!harrison
ucsfmis!harrison@berkeley
One of those ought to make it to me.
Peter Harrison
------------------------------
Date: 10 Aug 84 0839 PDT
From: Dave Fuchs <DRF@SU-AI.ARPA>
Subject: PCjr Speed-Up Query
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Here's a question for all you hardware hackers out there. The PCjr spends
about half of its memory cycles on display-refresh, which is a pretty
useless thing to be doing while nothing is changing on the screen. During
a long compile, I wouldn't mind if the screen were blank, if that meant
that the job ran faster. Has anyone put such a switch on their PCjr?
Does anyone actually OWN a PCjr? I'll summarize any replies received, etc.
-david (drf@sail)
------------------------------
End of Info-IBMPC Digest
************************
-------
∂15-Aug-84 1939 INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #85
Received: from USC-ISIB.ARPA by SU-AI.ARPA with TCP; 15 Aug 84 19:38:36 PDT
Date: 15 Aug 1984 13:53:53 PDT
Subject: Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #85
From: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC: ;
Info-IBMPC Digest Wednesday, 15 August 1984 Volume 3 : Issue 85
This Week's Editor: Richard Nelson
Today's Topics:
Review of IBM's PC/AT Announcement
Modified Kermit for PC/IX
PC Graphics Libraries
Intuit from Noumenon
PC/IX Async Port
XT vs PC + Hard Disk Add-on
IBM Pascal Exec Call Query
Compiled BASIC Chaining to DOS Utilities Query
Lattice C Library vs. DOS 2.0 Query
Different Disk Formats under MS-DOS Query
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Wed 15 Aug 84 02:34:17-PDT
From: Herm Fischer <HFISCHER@USC-ECLB.ARPA>
Subject: Review of IBM's PC/AT Announcement
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
IBM has announced, yesterday, enough products to set its
competition back a while and steal the PC show from the com-
patible makers. I am suffering from partial technical over-
load in pawing my way through half an inch of product
announcement notices, so if I missed some important points,
please forgive me.
To me (preparing for use of desktop computers for Ada
software development), the order of interest in announce-
ments is as follows:
1. Two new computers based on 6 MHz 286 CPUs, available
September 14:
a. PC/AT mdl 68, with a 1.2Mb 1/2-height floppy and
1/4 MB motherboard RAM ($3995)
b. PC/AT mdl 99, with a 1.2Mb 1/2-height floppy,
one 20Mb 40 ms full-height hard disk, 1/2 Mb of
motherboard RAM, and a serial/parallel card
($5795)
The box accommodates up to three drives (floppy plus
hard) total, and shares one controller card for both
kinds of disks. It is a little wider and higher than
the current PC. Its 192 watt world-wide power supply
should please all picky users, because its fan speed
is "thermostatically controlled". Max RAM is 3 Mbyte.
2. An "honest" Local Area Network, 2 MBit/sec CSMA/CD
coaxial cabled, broadband system ($595 plus $695 per
PC plus cables, etc). Works on PCs, XTs, and ATs, but
not JRs.
3. PC DOS 3.0, an upward compatible enhancement to 2.1,
for the PCs, XT, JR, and AT ($65). Includes "file
sharing" and block level locking of shared files.
Also available as PC DOS 3.1 with network support
($65).
4. TopView, a multitasking mouse-driven windowing PC DOS
package. Uses quarterplaning (scrolled) windows,
popup menus, and interwindow copy/paste. Sounds like
the Digital Research Concurrent-PC DOS which was exhi-
bited at the NCC, because it will support "old" appli-
cations which directly write into the screen display
buffer (e.g., most editors, Lotus), along with new
windowed applications. A Programmer's ToolKit pro-
vides interface routines for IBM's languages. ($149
for TopView plus $395 for ToolKit)
5. A new PC/IX version, later this year, to support PC/AT
I/O structure in the 8086 compatibility mode. Still
small model only. Said to be two to three times faster
than PC/IX on the XT. Still to be sold as "single
user" (but will work as multiuser). (expected price
about $1K)
6. Xenix for the 286, supporting large model up to 3 Mb,
with multiuser license. Available early next year.
Cheap ($395, plus $455 for C, SCCS, and make, plus
$145 for vi, ed, mm, and nroff).
7. Macro Assembler 2.0, including 286 support, a large
linker, library manager, structured assembler prepro-
cessor, and "maintenance and restriction removals".
($175 or trade-up price of $75).
8. Professional "Resident" Debug tool, including a
hardware card with a reset button which plugs into a
card slot. Includes a disk repair program. ($150)
9. Application Display Management System, apparently a
screen forms designer. ($150)
10. Data encoder (DES encryption algorithm). ($100)
11. Rocky's Boots, for your kids (supposedly one of the
best kid's educational programs). ($50)
12. PC Network Program, providing file servers, message
transfers, and print servers for the new network
hardware. ($75)
13. PC SNA Emulation Program ($375)
14. New manual update policy, for tech manuals and
hardware maintenance manuals -- update pages come free
through mid '85.
15. A PC Keylock to control rip-off and data browsing
($49.95).
16. 3270 enhancements too numerous to list.
17. DisplayWrite enhancements.
PC/AT Particulars
The PC/AT has eight expansion slots:
a. Two support current "8-bit" cards.
b. Six support either new-style "16-bit" cards or the
current 8-bit cards.
A card slot is used up by the disk/diskette adapter card,
which handles floppies and hard disks.
Discussion of CRT interfaces is noticeably absent from the
announcement. I surmise that IBM hoped to have a new set of
CRT graphics controllers ready, and didn't make it. The
only comment I could find in this regard is that the PC/AT
"requires a video display adapter and device for display
output." I guess the old video display cards will work in
the new box, because I could find no statement to the con-
trary.
Memory expansion cards, 512Kb, 16-bit style, are $1125.
Memory chips are needed to upgrade the smaller machine from
256 to 512K. Since 18 "modules" make up 256K ($495 for the
18), I surmise that either a module has two 4164 chips on
it, or somebody is making 128K chips now. That should be
good business for the aftermarket suppliers.
Hard disks (20MB) are $1595. That should leave lots of room
for the Hamilton's and Qubie's to support turning the
smaller machine into the bigger one.
The 1.2 Mbyte floppies will read all old-format floppies,
but if one tries to write on the old-format floppies, they
become unreadable on all except the hi-density drives.
Half-height floppies can be added of either the hi-capacity
variety, or the regular double sided variety (IBM's steep
prices are $650 and $425, respectively). The hi-capacity
floppy drives need the more expensive 96tpi floppy media.
Math chips (287 variety) are available ($375).
Serial/Parallel adapter cards are available ($100 for both
ports on one card). Works in either 8 or 16-bit card slots.
(One card is included in the model 99 price.)
Software compatibility
The following software runs on the new PC/AT: Accounting
packages by Peachtree, Adventure, Adventures in Serenia,
Animal Creation, APL, Application display management system,
Arithmetic Games (sets 1 and 2), Asynchronous Communications
Support, BASIC Compiler, Basic Programming and Development
System, BiSync 3270 Emulation, Bumble Games, Bumble Plot,
Casino Games, Cluster Program, COBOL, Diskette Librarian,
Dow Jones Reporter, Easy Writer, File Command, Fixed Disk
Organizer, FORTRAN, Gertrude's Puzzles and Secrets, Home
Budget, IBM's Filing, Graphing, Reporting, and Writing
Assistants, Juggles Butterfly, LOGO, Macro Assembler, Mail-
ing List Manager, Multiplan, Pascal Compiler, PC Writer,
Personal Editor, pfs:(File and Report), Private Tutor, Pro-
fessional Debug Facility, Professional Editor, Rocky's
Boots, SCRIPT/PC, SNA/3270 Emulation and RJE Support, Sort,
Strategy Games, Teacher's Quiz Designer, VisiCalc, Word
Proof, and 3101 Emulator.
Compatible with the new floppies but not hard disks are
Peach Text and Personal Communications Manager.
Some of the DisplayComm and DisplayWrite software has spe-
cial floppy or hard disk configuration requirements.
The following programs do NOT work on the PC/AT (at least in
their latest version): BPI Accounting, Decathlon, Fact
Track, HomeWord, Insurance Agency System, King's Quest,
PlannerCalc, Time Manager, Typing Tutor, UCSD-P System, or
101 Monochrome Mazes.
The following old hardware and adapter cards are NOT sup-
ported: Expansion units, 5181 printer, old memory cards,
old keyboard, prototype adapter, BiSync and SDLC adapters,
old hard and floppy disks, old printer adapter.
Warranty Improvements
The new warranty is one year. Maintenance costs thereafter
are $350/225 (small unit), $488/325 (big unit), plus
$138/100 per additional hard disk (representing respectively
IOR and CCR maintenance plans).
------------------------------
Date: Tue 14 Aug 84 17:40:37-PDT
From: Herm Fischer <HFISCHER@USC-ECLB.ARPA>
Subject: Modified Kermit for PC/IX
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA, info-kermit@COLUMBIA-20.ARPA
cc: hfischer@USC-ECLB.ARPA
I have modified the latest "kermit.c" as distributed by Columbia
University:
- It now has conditional compilations for Unix System III,
(which includes PC/IX), and TALKER options for interactive
features in the connected state and for cooperation with
PC/IX's connect facilities.
- Its "connect" state allows interactively "escaping" and
(without exiting kermit):
Entering receive state,
sending specified files,
asking for reassurance,
executing shell commands,
quitting/disconnecting,
getting a help menu, and
sending the escape character itself.
- It can be loaded and run from a shell as usual with the
unix kermits
- It can work as a "talker" for the connect command, which
then properly sets up and clears lock files, uses connect's
autodialers, etc, and prevents uucp from crashing onto
kermit's port. As a talker, you just say
"connect talker=kermit somehost"
or put the talker=kermit line into connect.con.
- When using kermit as connect's talker, you get vt100 screen
cursor controls (see PC/IX display(4) man page) minus line
insert/delete. (Connect's default talker, "atalk", gives
you NO cursor emulation.)
- Kermit also works as a "network" program under connect.
When connecting using the default talker, if you decide
to send/receive a file, enter ↑Vu↑M rkermit s myfile to
send, or ↑Vu↑M rkermit r to enter kermit's receive state.
The r command automatically tells kermit which line to use.
This new kermit is in my directory on eclb, <HFischer>kermit.c.
When I get to it, I will also provide a man page and some
instructions, in files which will also begin with the name kermit.
Herm Fischer
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 13 Aug 84 23:58-PDT
Date: 13 Aug 84 7:55:03-PDT (Mon)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!rlgvax!geller @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: PC Graphics Libraries
Your best bet for getting highly advanced and powerful graphics is to
use the libraries from Media Cybernetics. They are the people who have
created HALO. I've used HALO on my PC for quite some time now. The
product is complete and very professional. The documentation is pleasantly
terse and lucid. Sorry I don't have their address. I do, however, have a
name and a number for someone at Media Cybernetics. Try Gary Armstrong
at 301-270-0240.
David P. Geller
rlgvax!geller
(to answer your suspicion - no I don't work for them - I just like their stuff)
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 13 Aug 84 17:17:22 edt
From: sigurd%vax1@cc.delaware (ANDERSEN)
To: dennett@sri-nic
Subject: Intuit from Noumenon
Cc: info-ibmpc@usc-isib
With difficulty, I got the number for Noumenon Corp., (415) 521-2145.
Their address is 512 Westline Drive; Alameda CA. 94501. The deadline
for the $50 price is August 19th, not August 13th, as mentioned in PC
Week. Evidently, the directory assistance people in Alameda have the
phone number memorized. The program needs 256K to run, and includes
word processing, database, forms & report generators, a spreadsheet,
4-function calculator, and clock (if hardware supports it). It comes
with a 32 p. user's guide and a 250 p. technical manual. All this
from the person answering the phone. They've been developing the
program over the last two years and have been shipping for about 2
weeks. They're sending me literature in the mail. Hope this helps.
------------------------------
Date: Tue 14 Aug 84 17:17:21-PDT
From: Herm Fischer <HFISCHER@USC-ECLB.ARPA>
Subject: PC/IX Asynchronous Port
To: bang!crash!bblue@NOSC.ARPA
cc: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA, HFischer@USC-ECLB.ARPA
The problem mentioned with PC/IX is a hardware problem with the PC.
PC/IX has some programs which get very upset when the async ports
fail to provide interrupts. (Most programs which use the ports
have some kind of timing mechanism, or signal/alarm which takes
care of the port not returning interrupts.)
My personal PC/XT, purchased from the first lot IBM made, never has
this problem, except when the modem is unplugged or whatever. (I
have had PC/IX on it for 2 1/2 months!)
My company has a half-dozen PC/XTs, recently purchased, and of
very obviously poorer quality control, and some of them have
very painful problems with the interrupts. One machine worked
for six hours to then crash dead on PC/IX, because (with much
pain and suffering) we discovered that interrupts on tty0 were
mucked all up.
If you have problems with "loggers which refuse to die" on shutdown,
ports which work poorly, or the like, GET YOUR PC FIXED. The
repair guys are not familiar with interrupt driven software, so
expect a real hassle explaining why PCDOS works and PC/IX doesn't.
Also check for a strange problem I have seen where the /dev/tty's
have a use count greater than one. If you find that, remove the
offending /dev/tty and re-mknod it.
Herm Fischer
------------------------------
Date: Tue 14 Aug 84 21:37:05-PDT
From: Jacqueline <Burhans@ECLD.#ECLnet>
Subject: XT vs PC + Hard Disk Add-on
To: robbins%mit-oz@MIT-MC.ARPA
cc: info-pc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
My department recently purchased 2 IBM PCs and 2 Maynard Electronic
10MB hard disks (on my recommendation) for our word-processing de-
partment. One of the main differences between a PC with a hard
disk and an XT is that the PC costs (sometimes a great deal) less
money than the XT. But, like most things in life, it's not that
simple. First, some basic differences between the PC and XT (besides)
price: the XT has 8 expansion slots to the PCs 5, the XT has a
socket on the motherboard for the 8087 math co-processor chip (the PC
I believe, does not) and the XTs power supply is more *power*ful than
the PCs.
If you decide to buy a PC and add a hard disk, there are several things
to consider; one of the most important is cost. The price for a 10MB
hard disk ranges from $895 (Kamerman labs), $989 (Maynard Electronics),
to $1500-$2500 (Corona,Davong,Tallgrass) all the way up to IBM's own
10MB drive for $3400. As with all major purchases it is important to
consider the size and stability of the company. I didn't go with
Kamerman although they were the least expensive because they were a
relatively small and relatively new company. As it turns out I sub-
sequently heard of incidents with the hardware not working as adver-
tised and the customers not getting much support from Kamerman.
Another important issue (at least for me because I wanted an internally
mounted hard disk) is whether the PCs power supply will be able to support
the hard disk as well as any other option cards you may have in the PC.
Apparently there has been quite a problem with hard disks which phys-
ically fit in the drive but which conk out the PC by requiring too much
from the power supply. Kamerman and Maynard, which use half-height
winchesters, specifically advertise that they will work with the standard
PC power supply (though I read about someone having trouble with a Kamer-
man). So far (2 weeks) I have had no problem with the Maynard drive. You
might be able to purchase an XT power supply for your PC to get around
this problem.
But, there are more things to worry about: will you be able to boot your
system from the hard disk as you can with the XT? Maynard provides a
hard disk BIOS chip that plugs into a socket on the PC (256k) motherboard
to take care of that. They also provide software to run diagnostics and
a driver program for PCs with the earlier 64K mother boards. Also make sure
that the ASSIGN command works with your hard disk. This DOS command lets
your PC pretend that drive C (which is what your hard disk usually ends up
as) is drive B or even drive A in case you want to run some software that
specifically needs drive A or B.
Another important consideration is whether the software that you buy will
work with your hard disk. Some software is copy-protected so that you can't
copy it to (and thus can't use it on) your hard disk which limits the use-
fullness of the hard disk (and of the software.) Also, if the program
makes use of standard DOS calls (BASIC calls?) it should have no problem
but if it bypasses those to write directly to the hard disk (BIOS?) it
may run into problems. As you can tell I am not at this time intimately
familiar with this particular issue, maybe someone can clarify this--but
it sounded like a small risk for my application. So far I have used only
DisplayWrite 2 and Lotus 123 (a little) and have had no problem.
There have been several articles out on the topic of hard disks and the
PC. The January issue of Softalk has an article called "Winchester
cathedral: Do you really need that much real estate?" PC Tech Journal
had an article called something like: "Upgrading a PC to an Xtra-T."
Another good source of information is hardware reviews on the hard
disk subsystems themselves. Anyway, as I said it's been two weeks now
for me and so far so good.
------------------------------
Date: Mon 13 Aug 84 20:47:32-PDT
From: Michael A. Haberler <HABERLER@SU-SIERRA.ARPA>
Subject: IBM Pascal Exec Call Query
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
I am trying to call an editor (or COMMAND.COM) from within a IBM Pascal
program which heavily uses the heap. I saw some external routines for
the PC DOS exec function but they were designed for Lattice C and don't
work with IBM Pascal. Has anybody done that with IBM Pascal already?
- michael
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 14 Aug 84 23:26-PDT
Date: 13 Aug 84 18:00:04-PDT (Mon)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!cmcl2!rna!kc @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Compiled BASIC Chaining to DOS Utilities Query
A friend of mine has written a series of medical accounting programs using
the Basic compiler. He wants to be able to chain from his programs to
some of the PC's built in programs like chkdsk or format. Here's the sad part.
Bascom only chains to .exe files yet most of the distributed DOS 2.x utilities
are in .com format? What to do. Anybody know of a BIN2EXE utility that
will turn chkdsk.com into chkdsk.exe? Any other ideas?
<slogans on>
Ask not what your micro will do for you.
<slogans off>
Kaare Christian UUCP: cmcl2!rna!kc
Rockefeller Univ. BELL: 212-570-7672
1230 York Ave.
NYC, NY 10021
------------------------------
Date: Sun, 12 Aug 84 16:06:44 EDT
From: Brian←Borchers%RPI-MTS.Mailnet@MIT-MULTICS.ARPA
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Subject: Lattice C Library vs. DOS 2.0 Query
Does anyone out there have a good understanding of the
Lattice C library routines? In particular, I'm trying to
figure out the relationship, (If any), between the file
handles returned by open(), and DOS 2.0 handles.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 14 Aug 84 10:25 MST
From: Brzozowski@HIS-PHOENIX-MULTICS.ARPA
Subject: Different Disk Formats under MS-DOS Query
Reply-To: Brzozowski.RPMtnd%pco@CISL-SERVICE-MULTICS.ARPA
To: Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
cc: ski.RPMtnd@HIS-PHOENIX-MULTICS.ARPA
Does anyone know of any versions of "Uniform" for MS-DOS that happen
to be kicking around out there? Uniform (By the way) is a program allowing
an 8-bit micro to read and write various different disk formats. My
particular application is transferring files between MS-DOS and CP/M-86.
(Any other formats are pure gravy!) Thanks...
Gary Brz...
------------------------------
End of Info-IBMPC Digest
************************
-------
∂17-Aug-84 2344 INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #86
Received: from USC-ISIB.ARPA by SU-AI.ARPA with TCP; 17 Aug 84 23:38:22 PDT
Date: 17 Aug 1984 22:48:01 PDT
Subject: Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #86
From: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC: ;
Info-IBMPC Digest Friday, 17 August 1984 Volume 3 : Issue 86
This Week's Editor: Richard Nelson
Today's Topics:
PC/AT (3 msgs)
Catspaw and Other SNOBOLs (2 msgs)
Different Disk Formats under MS-DOS (2 msgs)
.OBJ/.COM Files (2 msgs)
PC-DOS 2.0 RAMdisk Driver Modification
Compaq PC/IX and Asynch Port
Lattice C Program on PCjr Problem
In-Depth MS DOS Book Query
Leading Edge PC and PC/IX Query
Data Acquisition/Control with PC Query
Compaq H/W and ROM Info Query
MS-LINK .EXE File Format Query
Used PCs Wanted
Sanyo MBC-550 PC Query
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Thu 16 Aug 84 15:55:09-PDT
From: Herm Fischer <HFISCHER@USC-ECLB.ARPA>
Subject: PC/AT: Technical Observations
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
cc: hfischer@USC-ECLB.ARPA
This article discusses the PC/AT's new keyboard layout,
presents some technical observations on the compatibility of
PC/AT floppy and hard disk drives with previous generation
drives, identifies new PC DOS 3.0 commands, and provides
comments resulting from scanning a listing of the new BIOS.
KEYBOARD SCREWED UP AGAIN, DIFFERENTLY
Jerry Pournelle will still have something to write about.
The PC/AT keyboard seems like an attempt to placate human
factors engineers who never used a text editor in their
daily work. They put enormous return and shift buttons,
which forced them to move the tilde to the escape position
(above the tab), the PrtSc to the top of the grey plus
(which is now smaller), and HORRORS, the escape to the left
of num lock (which is now single width).
Keytronics will have a field day. Any user of any editor
which intensively uses the escape button will be enormously
upset, because, unless the user has the hands of a basket-
ball player, reaching a numlock-positioned escape with the
right pinkie requires removing the hand from the keyboard,
while for the left pinkie to reach the old position above
the tab is even possible for hands on petite women gymnasts.
Lest IBM question what editor uses the escape button, with
vi, which the editor in Xenix, advertised as IBM's only
operating system to take advantage of the 286's features,
the escape is used as the most frequent key (more than the
return, if you do lots of correcting and inserting of text).
Also, many other editors, such as EMACS clones (now quite
popular on the PC) make heavy use of the escape.
On the nice side, they added LEDs for caps lock, num lock,
and scroll lock. And above the grey minus there is a new
key marked System Request (to wake up your multitasking ker-
nel while Lotus is churning away forever).
The keyboard cable still has the same plug and wiring
arrangement, but since the new keyboard has a faster oscil-
lator and additional functionality, I doubt if previous
plug-compatible devices will operate properly in the new
PC/AT (e.g., old keyboards or Logitech mouse adapters).
DISK DRIVE INCOMPATIBILITIES
According to the new Technical Reference manual, disk drive
cables have been redesigned, and I question whether the $175
Teac's will be able to fit in without some changes to their
interfaces. The floppy cables no longer have separate motor
enable lines for each drive; they have a new signal called
reduced write, and a drive select 3 line. I guess this
means that you might be able to squeeze three of the 1/3
height drives shown at the NCC into the space available,
given the third select line.
The hard disk seems to still have a standard interface, but
now the 10 Meg disk's reduced write current line is the 20
Meg disk's head 3 select line, and there are lines for drive
select 3 and 4 (not present in the old cables). One will
have to be careful in buying brand-X 20 Meg disks because of
the head select 3 line.
ASYNC MULTIPLEXOR NEEDED
The interrupt structure still only provides requests 3 and 4
for the async ports. Since this machine's software promotes
use of async-connected mice, and multiple users, obviously
more than two ports is needed. It would be dumb to give
each port a separate interrupt, so I hope somebody builds an
async card, with a single interrupt line, which supports a
bunch of UARTs. I doubt if there would be any serious
technical difficulty in writing either PCDOS or Unix
handlers which share an interrupt and poll a bunch of UARTs.
It certainly would save on interrupt overhead in a multiuser
environment (see my net-note on PC/IX problems at 9600).
NEW ASYNC UART CHIP
The Intel 8250 series UART used in the older PC line has
been replaced with a new National product, the 16450 (said
to be higher speed on the computer interfaces). Users of
8250 clones from foreign suppliers have, in the past,
experienced slight differences from Intel's product opera-
tion. Thus, handler writers should be cautious of the port
part change.
NEW BUS
Six of the eight slots can accommodate new accessory cards,
which have the regular 62 pin connector, and in addition a
supplemental extra 36 pin connector. The problem, however,
is that most of the more recent accessory cards do not have
cutouts which will clear the additional 36 pin motherboard
sockets. I suspect that the reason old async cards (and
presumably also modem cards) won't work is due to changed
oscillators and bus timing.
DOS 3.0 COMMANDS
There are several new DOS commands in 3.0. These are:
a. ATTRIB sets or displays a read-only file flag
b. LABEL adds/deletes or changes volume labels
c. SELECT sets keyboard layout and national date/time
format
d. SHARE installs file sharing support (which is not
described in the DOS manual)
e. COUNTRY sets national date/time format
f. DEVICE installs a RAM-disk
g. FCBs set number of file control blocks
BIOS MODIFICATIONS
The most important change to the BIOS (to my viewpoint) is
that the wait loops were all changed to provide hooks for a
multitasking kernel. The BIOS now accommodates up to 15 Meg
of RAM, in its tables, though I doubt if the > 1 meg stuff
can be used by anything except RAM disks and spoolers.
I quickly read through some of the BIOS code to see if I
could gain any secrets about forthcoming display controll-
ers. Alas, they still support the same old graphics and
monochrome cards, and there are not obvious hints of JR-
style features or 3270 APA-style features comming.
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 16 Aug 84 22:57-PDT
Date: 15 Aug 84 23:36:44-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From:
ihnp4!mhuxl!ulysses!burl!clyde!watmath!utzoo!utcsrgv!peterr @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: PC/AT
Today (Tuesday Aug. 14th), IBM announced its "Popcorn" machine, as the
"IBM Personal Computer AT", an 80286-based machine, claimed to be 2 to
3 times faster than the PC and PC/XT. There are two models, one with 20M hard
and one without.
Specifications:
Intel 80286 microprocessor
- MUCH faster than an 8088
- has on-chip memory management
64Kb ROM
Standard RAM: 256K base model, 512K enhanced
- expandable to 512K with a "plug-in memory module"
- expandable to 3M with option cards
Standard disk: 1.2M floppy drive
20M hard disk on the enhanced model
Expansion: 8 slots
- 1 occupied on base model (disk adapter)
- 2 occupied on enhanced model (disk, serial port)
Operating System: DOS 3.00
A Product Center rep. said that 3.00 is a "temporary"
version, with the "real" 3.1 ("without the bugs") out in
early 85.
Numeric Processor: optional 80287
Enhanced version of BASIC in ROM
3 disk drives are allowed:
- 1.2M floppy (required)
- extra 1.2M floppy, or 360K floppy, or 20M hard disk
- second 20M hard disk
Thus, a max. of 41.2M, all in the System Unit.
Keyboard: modified PC keyboard, with keypad and 10 function keys,
in the same place as before. Bigger Enter and Shift keys.
LED indicators on the Num Lock, Caps Lock, Scroll Lock
keys. A 3m keyboard cable.
Keylock to turn on the system (!!).
The Product Center rep. indicated that Xenix will be available, as
will network hardware (soon) and software ('85).
21.3" width, 17.3" deep, 6.4" high; 37lbs (42 lbs enhanced model);
noise level of 42dB; power consumption of 192W of 190-259V AC (?!?).
Cdn price is under $7000 for the base model, under $10000 for the
enhanced model (Cdn dollars; $1Cdn = $US0.76).
Also, I saw the new IBM Pascal compiler (2.00), with support for the 8087
and "long heap" (>64K). There's no mention of Microsoft in the manual,
so it may well have been developed internally by IBM, as rumored in this
group.
------------------------------
Date: 16 Aug 1984 15:41:15 PDT
Subject: PC/AT Announcement Online
From: Billy <BRACKENRIDGE@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
An edited text of the PC AT announcement can be found in <INFO-IBMPC>PC-AT.
ANNOUNCEMENT. Herm Fischer covered most of the major points so of this
announcement yesterday so I don't see the need to add another 40K bytes
to INFO-IBMPC digest. We will be happy to mail this file to anyone who
doesn't have FTP access to ISIB.
I stopped by my local friendly Beverly Hills IBM Product Center today and took
a quick look at the beast. My first impression is that the new keyboard is
worse than the old one. The escape key has been exiled to somewhere off
in the upper right hand corner where the scroll lock key used to be and my
favorite key * PrtSc is not in the handy place that made typing *.* so
easy.
------------------------------
Date: Wed 15 Aug 84 12:38:58-PDT
From: Ted Shapin <BEC.SHAPIN@USC-ECL.ARPA>
Subject: Catspaw SNOBOL
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Reading some of the back issues, I see references to Minnesota SNOBOL
and PC Spitbol. Where can these be obtained?
I just received Catspaw SNOBOL4+ (Catspaw, Inc., PO Box 1123, Salida, CO
81201, $50) which seems to be a complete macro SNOBOL implementation plus
additional features for use in the interactive PC environment. It comes
with a good 77 page manual.
Ted.
------------------------------
Date: Fri 17 Aug 84 10:21:54-PDT
From: Ted Shapin <BEC.SHAPIN@USC-ECL.ARPA>
Subject: Catspaw and Other SNOBOLs
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
After sending my question on the other SNOBOLs I found the references
in earlier INFO-IBMPC issues.
Here is the timing on Catspaw SNOBOL4+ for
LP I = I + 1
LE(I,10000) :s(LP)
Catspaw SNOBOL4+ 74 seconds
Minnesota 144
Spitbol 7 (from earlier message)
By the way in FORTH-83 (available from Silicon Valley Computer Society
on disks 70 and 71) the time is 1 second for :test 10000 0 do 1 + loop ;
Ted.
------------------------------
Date: 15 Aug 1984 1749 PDT
From: Jeff Skaletsky <JEFF@JPL-VLSI.ARPA>
Subject: Different Disk Formats under MS-DOS
To: info-ibmpc@isib
I hear that CROSSDATA from Award Software is pretty good. They run
ads in INFO-WORLD in the back. Here's the address and phone:
Award Software Inc.
236 No. Santa Cruz Ave.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
(408) 395-2773
Jeff Skaletsky
Jet Propulsion Lab
------------------------------
Date: Thursday, 16 Aug 1984 12:15:50-PDT
From: waters%viking.DEC@decwrl.ARPA (Lester Waters)
To: brzozowski@his-phoenix-multics.ARPA, info-pc@usc-isib.ARPA
Subject: Different Disk Formats under MS-DOS
There is a product called XENO-COPY which will allow a multitude
of disk formats to be read and written, including MS-DOS <-> CP/M. If I
remember correctly, it is about $150 and is available from Vertex Systems
in CA. Look in the latest PC Tech journal. I know that they have an AD
in there.
- Lester Waters -
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 15 Aug 84 18:10-PDT
Date: 13 Aug 84 15:28:33-PDT (Mon)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From:
ihnp4!houxm!houxz!vax135!cornell!uw-beaver!microsoft!markz @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: .OBJ/.COM Files
"... I am not including this statement because with it exe2bin would not
convert the file..."
EXE2BIN will convert an EXE file to a COM-format file under the following
circumstances:
o Entry point is 0:100h
o No Stack segment is present
o Image size is < 65536-100h-2
o There are NO relocatable long references.
I strongly suspect that there is something else at work here.
"... I suspect that it is something to do with having data segments
separate from the code segment..."
You have probably just hit the nail on the head. If you are using the macro
assembler from IBM, you'll find that it will emit segment definitions in
alphabetic order rather than in declaration order. This *may* be causing
your data segment to precede your code segment which might violate the first
condition above.
I really question your need of COM files in the first place. The *only*
place that they might be useful is in device drivers. Outside of these,
MSDOS is quite capable of performing all relocation for you. I strongly
urge anyone who is thinking of using COM files to stick with the EXE format.
Reasons:
o No need for EXE2BIN.
o Full use of instruction set (you can't effectively use the long call
instruction, for example) by being relocatable.
o Has extensible header should any changes to the format be needed.
o EXE files don't have 64K-100h-2 size restriction.
o Full control of stack placement. COM files have no guarantee on minimal
size of stack. I have seen a great numbers of COM files that fail on
small-memory machines or on reading large data over where their stack
was.
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 15 Aug 84 20:31-PDT
Date: 19 Aug 84 21:16:00-EDT (Sun)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: pur-ee!uiucdcs!bradley!ali @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: .OBJ/.COM Files
I'm not sure how familiar you are with the structure of COM files but
basicaly a COM file is a memory image of an executable code with or without
data fields. The loader portion of the DOS performs the following before
giving control to the module:
[] a Program Segment Prefix is built and the appropriate parts of that
prefix is initialized(such as FCB1, FCB2, the INT 20H instruction at
offset 0, this is covered in detail starting on page E-3 in the DOS
manual)
[] All the general purpose registers are set to zero, all the segment
registers are set to the segment address of the PSP(Program Segment
Prefix)
[] The Instruction pointer(IP register) is set to 100H.
[] The COM file is read in at location 100H(this is a straight load
without any modification, editing or relocation)
[] a word of zero is pushed on the stack(since SP is zero from step 2,
the zero word is actually now at the very end of the segment. The
zero word serves as a return address to location zero which contains
the instruction INT 20H)
[] finally control is transferred through a long jump to PSP:100H
(this is how CS and IP are set)
It is very common to make the first three bytes in a COM file a jump
to the program start address(this is done by the programmer and not by the
loader or any other part of the system, usually to make it possible to
put data items before they are referenced in the code, this way the assembler
can generate the correct code knowing the size of the data items)
Creating COM files is restricted by the following:
1) The program may not contain any DATA segments ( you can change the DS
later in your code to point to anything you want, but the header of
EXE file produced by the linker must not contain a DATA segment)
2) there must not be a stack segment (this is trivial since a stack will
be setup by the loader, and there is really no need for the program
to have a separate stack unless the program is very large, in which
case you can relocate the stack during the initialization part of your
program)
3) The entry point must be at 100H. If you did not specify an entry point
using
END entry-point
statement in your program, in which case the linker assumes entry point
at CS:0 and sets the entry point address in the EXE file header to that,
so exe2bin will perform a simple conversion to produce a COM file. If on
the other hand you did specify an entry point then you better use the
ORG 100H
statement to move the program up, since exe2bin will delete the first
100H locations while converting this EXE file to a COM one and it
better not be part of your program.
In any case try something close to the following format:
CODE SEGMENT
ASSUME CS:CODE
ORG 100H
BEGIN PROC NEAR
JMP INIT
BEGIN ENDP
MSG DB 'Hello world.',0DH,0AH,24H
INIT PROC NEAR
MOV DX,OFFSET MSG
MOV AH,9
INT 21H
RET
INIT ENDP
CODE ENDS
END BEGIN
of course you can omit the PROC ENDP stuff and use labels followed by
colons. Also you can name the segment so it will be combined with other
segments of the same name in a separately assembled program but I suggest
you make it relocatable on paragraph boundary.
CODE SEGMENT PARA PUBLIC 'name'
I hope this will help you write COM programs, and I'm sorry for length
of this response, reading it back I noticed that I have included a lot of
information that is already available in the DOS manual.
good luck.
Ali Ezzet {ihnp4,uiucdcs}!bradley!ali
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 15 Aug 84 20:41-PDT
Date: 19 Aug 84 21:58:00-EDT (Sun)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: pur-ee!uiucdcs!bradley!ali @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: PC-DOS 2.0 RAMdisk Driver Modification
Seems like the driver is not recognizing the size of the disk and
allocating memory only for 180K. However, when writing to the disk it
checks the PBP and finds that it is a 360K drive and continues writing
beyond the 180K that was allocated for it, thus overwriting any program
that happens to be above it (usually the command processor).
Try poking around with debug, find the INIT routine and try to
modify the requested amount of memory returned by the routine to DOS to
reflect the correct amount of memory needed (this will at least save your
command processor from being overwritten, and possibly crashing the
system)
You can also change this(if you have the source code typed) change
line 248 (in the listing of DOS manual), since the 180k drive requires
2D000H bytes of data space, change it to 5A000H bytes. remember they
are setting a segment address so it should be 5A00H.
By the way if you do have the driver source typed, could you possibly
send it to me. You will save me a lot of typing.
good luck.
Ali Ezzet {ihnp4,uiucdcs}!bradley!ali
------------------------------
From: <bang!crash!bblue@Nosc>
Date: Thu, 16 Aug 84 22:47:42 pdt
To: bang!HFischer@usc-eclb, cc@Nosc, bang!info-ibmpc@usc-isib
Subject: Compaq PC/IX and Asynch Port
Though I thought I had made it clear in my previous message regarding the
port locking problems with PC-IX, I'll restate. I am running PC-IX
*on a Compaq* and was having port hang-up problems. So obviously,
interrupt problems and scenarios for the XT don't apply. Fortunately,
Compaq does not seem to have those sort of quality control problems and
associated horror stories.
None the less, I appreciate your suggestions. As it happened, I already
had tried re-mknod'ing things. That made no difference whatsoever. In
talking to IBM tech support I found out (not related to this problem) there
is a bug with certain jobs refusing to die, occasionally, during shutdown.
They're "looking in to it".
I did find out what the problem is, though, and thought you and the readers
would like to know. There was an article back in the April 2nd issue of
InfoWorld, about National Semiconductor 8250 chips. Seems that back in the
early 80's NS decided to "improve" the 8250, deviating somewhat from the
original 8250 spec's. They didn't know at the time that IBM was planning
to use it in the PC. IBM didn't know that NS had made any changes, either.
(Haven't we heard something like this before?) Anyway, to make a long
story short, it turns out that the 8250 manufactured by NS, and used in
some 50% of the PC's out there and all the PC Jr's, not to mention a great
many companies producing add-on comm/memory cards for the PC, doesn't work
with all software. Especially, compiled Basic communications programs, and
certain others. And of course, PC-IX. All the serial cards I tried (several)
had NS 8250's on them from a batch in late '83. I managed to find a Western
Digital 8250, and guess what? It works perfectly.
This is about all I know about this situation - anyone have any more info?
Do you know of a PC-IX version of Umodem?
--Bill Blue
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 16 Aug 84 6:58-PDT
Date: 15 Aug 84 20:25:00-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hp-pcd!uoregon!marka @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Lattice C Program on PCjr Problem
I'm looking for information concerning system hardware/software
glitches on the IBM PCjr.
I have an editor (written in Lattice C v1.04)
that runs fine on the PC and XT (many 100s of hours of testing)
but blows up within the first page of input on the PCjr.
Memory size, allocated stack space, and position in core
of the run image seem to have no (obvious) relationship
to the problem.
Are there known difficulties with :
1 - rapid key input in conjunction with direct video
memory write (to either 0xb800 or 0x1c00)?
2 - touching 6845 registers directly.
3 - unintentional VGA resets
4 - bus errors
Please reply by mail
Randy Goodall
c/o
{hp-pcd,tektronix}!uoregon!marka
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 14 Aug 84 0:26-PDT
Date: 13 Aug 84 6:31:07-PDT (Mon)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!cmcl2!lanl-a!rgt @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: In-Depth MS DOS Book Query
I just received a DEC Rainbow 100+ computer. It has both
CP/M 80/86 and MS-DOS. I have been trying to use the CP/M assembler
for graphics applications, since the GSX-86 graphics package works
under CP/M. I have been having trouble with the assembler skipping
instructions, and with CP/M not doing what the book says it should.
Can anyone give me the names of some good books that explain
CP/M and MS-DOS? I do not want the basic "This is a computer, this
is a power switch" type books. I want books that explain CP/M for
the computer professional. Specifically, I want to know the disk
formats for CP/M disks, how the directories are stored on disk,
how disk block allocation is done for CP/M, how to call CP/M from
assembly language programs, how to modify the operating system to
add my own special features, etc. And the same type of information
for MS-DOS.
I have been programming for over 14 years, and have over 2
years experience with the Intel 8086/88 and 80186/188 family of parts,
so I want books that have some depth.
Thanks in advance.
Richard Thomsen
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 14 Aug 84 21:10:49 EDT
From: Joe Pistritto <jcp@BRL-TGR.ARPA>
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib.ARPA
Subject: Leading Edge PC and PC/IX Query
I am considering getting one of the Leading Edge PC's with the hard disk
installed, and want to know about running PC/IX on it. I have heard that
it doesn't run straight out of the box. Has anyone had any experience
with this? Also, if it can be made to run, does it work with the processor
set to high speed?
-JCP-
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 16 Aug 84 1:18-PDT
Date: 14 Aug 84 14:59:12-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!sdcrdcf!trwrba!cepu!ucsbcsl!lombrozo @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Data Acquisition/Control with PC Query
Does anyone know of systems using IBM-PC or XT for data acquisition and
control. we are interested in monitoring mechanical testers such as
drop towers and hydraulic fatigue test machines (MTS). We are
currently using a Data General Eclipse with a CAMAC crate. The
advantage is the multi-tasking Fortran. Can MS-fortran be multi-tasked
using a multi-user environment? Any information will be appreciated.
lombrozo@ucsbcsl
Nuclear Engineering
Material Group
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 16 Aug 84 2:44-PDT
Date: 14 Aug 84 12:36:19-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!nsc!voder!gino @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Compaq H/W and ROM Info Query
I have a Compaq; however, the company's attitude towards H/W
documentation seems to be "buy the IBM Tech Ref Manual"
(which isn't quite the same).
Does anyone know how to get real Compaq documentation?
I also would like a ROM listing.
If there is enough response, I'll summarize to this group.
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 16 Aug 84 4:33-PDT
Date: 13 Aug 84 5:20:08-PDT (Mon)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: decvax!ittvax!sii!mem @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: MS-LINK .EXE File Format Query
Can anybody tell me the format of .EXE files created by MS-LINK under
MS/DOS ? Thank you very much-
Mark Mallett
decvax!sii!mem
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 16 Aug 84 11:33 PDT
From: jwaas.ES@XEROX.ARPA
Subject: Used PCs Wanted
To: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
cc: jwaas.ES@XEROX.ARPA
I need to purchase 3 or 4 IBM PC's to establish a network and rather
than get new units would like clean used IBM's. The problem of course is
where can a person find several used IBM's?
Jaye Waas
[Readers: "For Sale" kinds of responses to this message will NOT be
posted. Please limit your replies to Info-IBMPC accordingly. -ed.]
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 17 Aug 84 3:12-PDT
Date: 15 Aug 84 21:46:30-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!harvard!wjh12!bbncca!sdyer @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Sanyo MBC-550 PC Query
I just purchased a Sanyo MBC-555 w/256K, serial port, 2 360K disks and
MSDOS 2.11. I'd like to hear from others with Sanyo PCs to exchange
information, ideas and leads to useful software packages (e.g. reporting
experiences with IBM PC programs which run on the MBC-555.)
I have read the August Byte article (in fact, that helped me make my
decision) but some "live" contacts are always better. I'd be glad, too,
to try to answer any questions non-owners might have, as I become more
familiar with it.
/Steve Dyer
{decvax,linus,ima}!bbncca!sdyer
sdyer@bbncca.ARPA
------------------------------
End of Info-IBMPC Digest
************************
-------
∂18-Aug-84 0133 INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #86
Received: from USC-ISIB.ARPA by SU-AI.ARPA with TCP; 18 Aug 84 01:32:07 PDT
Date: 17 Aug 1984 22:48:01 PDT
Subject: Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #86
From: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC: ;
Info-IBMPC Digest Friday, 17 August 1984 Volume 3 : Issue 86
This Week's Editor: Richard Nelson
Today's Topics:
PC/AT (3 msgs)
Catspaw and Other SNOBOLs (2 msgs)
Different Disk Formats under MS-DOS (2 msgs)
.OBJ/.COM Files (2 msgs)
PC-DOS 2.0 RAMdisk Driver Modification
Compaq PC/IX and Asynch Port
Lattice C Program on PCjr Problem
In-Depth MS DOS Book Query
Leading Edge PC and PC/IX Query
Data Acquisition/Control with PC Query
Compaq H/W and ROM Info Query
MS-LINK .EXE File Format Query
Used PCs Wanted
Sanyo MBC-550 PC Query
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Thu 16 Aug 84 15:55:09-PDT
From: Herm Fischer <HFISCHER@USC-ECLB.ARPA>
Subject: PC/AT: Technical Observations
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
cc: hfischer@USC-ECLB.ARPA
This article discusses the PC/AT's new keyboard layout,
presents some technical observations on the compatibility of
PC/AT floppy and hard disk drives with previous generation
drives, identifies new PC DOS 3.0 commands, and provides
comments resulting from scanning a listing of the new BIOS.
KEYBOARD SCREWED UP AGAIN, DIFFERENTLY
Jerry Pournelle will still have something to write about.
The PC/AT keyboard seems like an attempt to placate human
factors engineers who never used a text editor in their
daily work. They put enormous return and shift buttons,
which forced them to move the tilde to the escape position
(above the tab), the PrtSc to the top of the grey plus
(which is now smaller), and HORRORS, the escape to the left
of num lock (which is now single width).
Keytronics will have a field day. Any user of any editor
which intensively uses the escape button will be enormously
upset, because, unless the user has the hands of a basket-
ball player, reaching a numlock-positioned escape with the
right pinkie requires removing the hand from the keyboard,
while for the left pinkie to reach the old position above
the tab is even possible for hands on petite women gymnasts.
Lest IBM question what editor uses the escape button, with
vi, which the editor in Xenix, advertised as IBM's only
operating system to take advantage of the 286's features,
the escape is used as the most frequent key (more than the
return, if you do lots of correcting and inserting of text).
Also, many other editors, such as EMACS clones (now quite
popular on the PC) make heavy use of the escape.
On the nice side, they added LEDs for caps lock, num lock,
and scroll lock. And above the grey minus there is a new
key marked System Request (to wake up your multitasking ker-
nel while Lotus is churning away forever).
The keyboard cable still has the same plug and wiring
arrangement, but since the new keyboard has a faster oscil-
lator and additional functionality, I doubt if previous
plug-compatible devices will operate properly in the new
PC/AT (e.g., old keyboards or Logitech mouse adapters).
DISK DRIVE INCOMPATIBILITIES
According to the new Technical Reference manual, disk drive
cables have been redesigned, and I question whether the $175
Teac's will be able to fit in without some changes to their
interfaces. The floppy cables no longer have separate motor
enable lines for each drive; they have a new signal called
reduced write, and a drive select 3 line. I guess this
means that you might be able to squeeze three of the 1/3
height drives shown at the NCC into the space available,
given the third select line.
The hard disk seems to still have a standard interface, but
now the 10 Meg disk's reduced write current line is the 20
Meg disk's head 3 select line, and there are lines for drive
select 3 and 4 (not present in the old cables). One will
have to be careful in buying brand-X 20 Meg disks because of
the head select 3 line.
ASYNC MULTIPLEXOR NEEDED
The interrupt structure still only provides requests 3 and 4
for the async ports. Since this machine's software promotes
use of async-connected mice, and multiple users, obviously
more than two ports is needed. It would be dumb to give
each port a separate interrupt, so I hope somebody builds an
async card, with a single interrupt line, which supports a
bunch of UARTs. I doubt if there would be any serious
technical difficulty in writing either PCDOS or Unix
handlers which share an interrupt and poll a bunch of UARTs.
It certainly would save on interrupt overhead in a multiuser
environment (see my net-note on PC/IX problems at 9600).
NEW ASYNC UART CHIP
The Intel 8250 series UART used in the older PC line has
been replaced with a new National product, the 16450 (said
to be higher speed on the computer interfaces). Users of
8250 clones from foreign suppliers have, in the past,
experienced slight differences from Intel's product opera-
tion. Thus, handler writers should be cautious of the port
part change.
NEW BUS
Six of the eight slots can accommodate new accessory cards,
which have the regular 62 pin connector, and in addition a
supplemental extra 36 pin connector. The problem, however,
is that most of the more recent accessory cards do not have
cutouts which will clear the additional 36 pin motherboard
sockets. I suspect that the reason old async cards (and
presumably also modem cards) won't work is due to changed
oscillators and bus timing.
DOS 3.0 COMMANDS
There are several new DOS commands in 3.0. These are:
a. ATTRIB sets or displays a read-only file flag
b. LABEL adds/deletes or changes volume labels
c. SELECT sets keyboard layout and national date/time
format
d. SHARE installs file sharing support (which is not
described in the DOS manual)
e. COUNTRY sets national date/time format
f. DEVICE installs a RAM-disk
g. FCBs set number of file control blocks
BIOS MODIFICATIONS
The most important change to the BIOS (to my viewpoint) is
that the wait loops were all changed to provide hooks for a
multitasking kernel. The BIOS now accommodates up to 15 Meg
of RAM, in its tables, though I doubt if the > 1 meg stuff
can be used by anything except RAM disks and spoolers.
I quickly read through some of the BIOS code to see if I
could gain any secrets about forthcoming display controll-
ers. Alas, they still support the same old graphics and
monochrome cards, and there are not obvious hints of JR-
style features or 3270 APA-style features comming.
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 16 Aug 84 22:57-PDT
Date: 15 Aug 84 23:36:44-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From:
ihnp4!mhuxl!ulysses!burl!clyde!watmath!utzoo!utcsrgv!peterr @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: PC/AT
Today (Tuesday Aug. 14th), IBM announced its "Popcorn" machine, as the
"IBM Personal Computer AT", an 80286-based machine, claimed to be 2 to
3 times faster than the PC and PC/XT. There are two models, one with 20M hard
and one without.
Specifications:
Intel 80286 microprocessor
- MUCH faster than an 8088
- has on-chip memory management
64Kb ROM
Standard RAM: 256K base model, 512K enhanced
- expandable to 512K with a "plug-in memory module"
- expandable to 3M with option cards
Standard disk: 1.2M floppy drive
20M hard disk on the enhanced model
Expansion: 8 slots
- 1 occupied on base model (disk adapter)
- 2 occupied on enhanced model (disk, serial port)
Operating System: DOS 3.00
A Product Center rep. said that 3.00 is a "temporary"
version, with the "real" 3.1 ("without the bugs") out in
early 85.
Numeric Processor: optional 80287
Enhanced version of BASIC in ROM
3 disk drives are allowed:
- 1.2M floppy (required)
- extra 1.2M floppy, or 360K floppy, or 20M hard disk
- second 20M hard disk
Thus, a max. of 41.2M, all in the System Unit.
Keyboard: modified PC keyboard, with keypad and 10 function keys,
in the same place as before. Bigger Enter and Shift keys.
LED indicators on the Num Lock, Caps Lock, Scroll Lock
keys. A 3m keyboard cable.
Keylock to turn on the system (!!).
The Product Center rep. indicated that Xenix will be available, as
will network hardware (soon) and software ('85).
21.3" width, 17.3" deep, 6.4" high; 37lbs (42 lbs enhanced model);
noise level of 42dB; power consumption of 192W of 190-259V AC (?!?).
Cdn price is under $7000 for the base model, under $10000 for the
enhanced model (Cdn dollars; $1Cdn = $US0.76).
Also, I saw the new IBM Pascal compiler (2.00), with support for the 8087
and "long heap" (>64K). There's no mention of Microsoft in the manual,
so it may well have been developed internally by IBM, as rumored in this
group.
------------------------------
Date: 16 Aug 1984 15:41:15 PDT
Subject: PC/AT Announcement Online
From: Billy <BRACKENRIDGE@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
An edited text of the PC AT announcement can be found in <INFO-IBMPC>PC-AT.
ANNOUNCEMENT. Herm Fischer covered most of the major points so of this
announcement yesterday so I don't see the need to add another 40K bytes
to INFO-IBMPC digest. We will be happy to mail this file to anyone who
doesn't have FTP access to ISIB.
I stopped by my local friendly Beverly Hills IBM Product Center today and took
a quick look at the beast. My first impression is that the new keyboard is
worse than the old one. The escape key has been exiled to somewhere off
in the upper right hand corner where the scroll lock key used to be and my
favorite key * PrtSc is not in the handy place that made typing *.* so
easy.
------------------------------
Date: Wed 15 Aug 84 12:38:58-PDT
From: Ted Shapin <BEC.SHAPIN@USC-ECL.ARPA>
Subject: Catspaw SNOBOL
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
Reading some of the back issues, I see references to Minnesota SNOBOL
and PC Spitbol. Where can these be obtained?
I just received Catspaw SNOBOL4+ (Catspaw, Inc., PO Box 1123, Salida, CO
81201, $50) which seems to be a complete macro SNOBOL implementation plus
additional features for use in the interactive PC environment. It comes
with a good 77 page manual.
Ted.
------------------------------
Date: Fri 17 Aug 84 10:21:54-PDT
From: Ted Shapin <BEC.SHAPIN@USC-ECL.ARPA>
Subject: Catspaw and Other SNOBOLs
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
After sending my question on the other SNOBOLs I found the references
in earlier INFO-IBMPC issues.
Here is the timing on Catspaw SNOBOL4+ for
LP I = I + 1
LE(I,10000) :s(LP)
Catspaw SNOBOL4+ 74 seconds
Minnesota 144
Spitbol 7 (from earlier message)
By the way in FORTH-83 (available from Silicon Valley Computer Society
on disks 70 and 71) the time is 1 second for :test 10000 0 do 1 + loop ;
Ted.
------------------------------
Date: 15 Aug 1984 1749 PDT
From: Jeff Skaletsky <JEFF@JPL-VLSI.ARPA>
Subject: Different Disk Formats under MS-DOS
To: info-ibmpc@isib
I hear that CROSSDATA from Award Software is pretty good. They run
ads in INFO-WORLD in the back. Here's the address and phone:
Award Software Inc.
236 No. Santa Cruz Ave.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
(408) 395-2773
Jeff Skaletsky
Jet Propulsion Lab
------------------------------
Date: Thursday, 16 Aug 1984 12:15:50-PDT
From: waters%viking.DEC@decwrl.ARPA (Lester Waters)
To: brzozowski@his-phoenix-multics.ARPA, info-pc@usc-isib.ARPA
Subject: Different Disk Formats under MS-DOS
There is a product called XENO-COPY which will allow a multitude
of disk formats to be read and written, including MS-DOS <-> CP/M. If I
remember correctly, it is about $150 and is available from Vertex Systems
in CA. Look in the latest PC Tech journal. I know that they have an AD
in there.
- Lester Waters -
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 15 Aug 84 18:10-PDT
Date: 13 Aug 84 15:28:33-PDT (Mon)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From:
ihnp4!houxm!houxz!vax135!cornell!uw-beaver!microsoft!markz @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: .OBJ/.COM Files
"... I am not including this statement because with it exe2bin would not
convert the file..."
EXE2BIN will convert an EXE file to a COM-format file under the following
circumstances:
o Entry point is 0:100h
o No Stack segment is present
o Image size is < 65536-100h-2
o There are NO relocatable long references.
I strongly suspect that there is something else at work here.
"... I suspect that it is something to do with having data segments
separate from the code segment..."
You have probably just hit the nail on the head. If you are using the macro
assembler from IBM, you'll find that it will emit segment definitions in
alphabetic order rather than in declaration order. This *may* be causing
your data segment to precede your code segment which might violate the first
condition above.
I really question your need of COM files in the first place. The *only*
place that they might be useful is in device drivers. Outside of these,
MSDOS is quite capable of performing all relocation for you. I strongly
urge anyone who is thinking of using COM files to stick with the EXE format.
Reasons:
o No need for EXE2BIN.
o Full use of instruction set (you can't effectively use the long call
instruction, for example) by being relocatable.
o Has extensible header should any changes to the format be needed.
o EXE files don't have 64K-100h-2 size restriction.
o Full control of stack placement. COM files have no guarantee on minimal
size of stack. I have seen a great numbers of COM files that fail on
small-memory machines or on reading large data over where their stack
was.
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 15 Aug 84 20:31-PDT
Date: 19 Aug 84 21:16:00-EDT (Sun)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: pur-ee!uiucdcs!bradley!ali @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: .OBJ/.COM Files
I'm not sure how familiar you are with the structure of COM files but
basicaly a COM file is a memory image of an executable code with or without
data fields. The loader portion of the DOS performs the following before
giving control to the module:
[] a Program Segment Prefix is built and the appropriate parts of that
prefix is initialized(such as FCB1, FCB2, the INT 20H instruction at
offset 0, this is covered in detail starting on page E-3 in the DOS
manual)
[] All the general purpose registers are set to zero, all the segment
registers are set to the segment address of the PSP(Program Segment
Prefix)
[] The Instruction pointer(IP register) is set to 100H.
[] The COM file is read in at location 100H(this is a straight load
without any modification, editing or relocation)
[] a word of zero is pushed on the stack(since SP is zero from step 2,
the zero word is actually now at the very end of the segment. The
zero word serves as a return address to location zero which contains
the instruction INT 20H)
[] finally control is transferred through a long jump to PSP:100H
(this is how CS and IP are set)
It is very common to make the first three bytes in a COM file a jump
to the program start address(this is done by the programmer and not by the
loader or any other part of the system, usually to make it possible to
put data items before they are referenced in the code, this way the assembler
can generate the correct code knowing the size of the data items)
Creating COM files is restricted by the following:
1) The program may not contain any DATA segments ( you can change the DS
later in your code to point to anything you want, but the header of
EXE file produced by the linker must not contain a DATA segment)
2) there must not be a stack segment (this is trivial since a stack will
be setup by the loader, and there is really no need for the program
to have a separate stack unless the program is very large, in which
case you can relocate the stack during the initialization part of your
program)
3) The entry point must be at 100H. If you did not specify an entry point
using
END entry-point
statement in your program, in which case the linker assumes entry point
at CS:0 and sets the entry point address in the EXE file header to that,
so exe2bin will perform a simple conversion to produce a COM file. If on
the other hand you did specify an entry point then you better use the
ORG 100H
statement to move the program up, since exe2bin will delete the first
100H locations while converting this EXE file to a COM one and it
better not be part of your program.
In any case try something close to the following format:
CODE SEGMENT
ASSUME CS:CODE
ORG 100H
BEGIN PROC NEAR
JMP INIT
BEGIN ENDP
MSG DB 'Hello world.',0DH,0AH,24H
INIT PROC NEAR
MOV DX,OFFSET MSG
MOV AH,9
INT 21H
RET
INIT ENDP
CODE ENDS
END BEGIN
of course you can omit the PROC ENDP stuff and use labels followed by
colons. Also you can name the segment so it will be combined with other
segments of the same name in a separately assembled program but I suggest
you make it relocatable on paragraph boundary.
CODE SEGMENT PARA PUBLIC 'name'
I hope this will help you write COM programs, and I'm sorry for length
of this response, reading it back I noticed that I have included a lot of
information that is already available in the DOS manual.
good luck.
Ali Ezzet {ihnp4,uiucdcs}!bradley!ali
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 15 Aug 84 20:41-PDT
Date: 19 Aug 84 21:58:00-EDT (Sun)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: pur-ee!uiucdcs!bradley!ali @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: PC-DOS 2.0 RAMdisk Driver Modification
Seems like the driver is not recognizing the size of the disk and
allocating memory only for 180K. However, when writing to the disk it
checks the PBP and finds that it is a 360K drive and continues writing
beyond the 180K that was allocated for it, thus overwriting any program
that happens to be above it (usually the command processor).
Try poking around with debug, find the INIT routine and try to
modify the requested amount of memory returned by the routine to DOS to
reflect the correct amount of memory needed (this will at least save your
command processor from being overwritten, and possibly crashing the
system)
You can also change this(if you have the source code typed) change
line 248 (in the listing of DOS manual), since the 180k drive requires
2D000H bytes of data space, change it to 5A000H bytes. remember they
are setting a segment address so it should be 5A00H.
By the way if you do have the driver source typed, could you possibly
send it to me. You will save me a lot of typing.
good luck.
Ali Ezzet {ihnp4,uiucdcs}!bradley!ali
------------------------------
From: <bang!crash!bblue@Nosc>
Date: Thu, 16 Aug 84 22:47:42 pdt
To: bang!HFischer@usc-eclb, cc@Nosc, bang!info-ibmpc@usc-isib
Subject: Compaq PC/IX and Asynch Port
Though I thought I had made it clear in my previous message regarding the
port locking problems with PC-IX, I'll restate. I am running PC-IX
*on a Compaq* and was having port hang-up problems. So obviously,
interrupt problems and scenarios for the XT don't apply. Fortunately,
Compaq does not seem to have those sort of quality control problems and
associated horror stories.
None the less, I appreciate your suggestions. As it happened, I already
had tried re-mknod'ing things. That made no difference whatsoever. In
talking to IBM tech support I found out (not related to this problem) there
is a bug with certain jobs refusing to die, occasionally, during shutdown.
They're "looking in to it".
I did find out what the problem is, though, and thought you and the readers
would like to know. There was an article back in the April 2nd issue of
InfoWorld, about National Semiconductor 8250 chips. Seems that back in the
early 80's NS decided to "improve" the 8250, deviating somewhat from the
original 8250 spec's. They didn't know at the time that IBM was planning
to use it in the PC. IBM didn't know that NS had made any changes, either.
(Haven't we heard something like this before?) Anyway, to make a long
story short, it turns out that the 8250 manufactured by NS, and used in
some 50% of the PC's out there and all the PC Jr's, not to mention a great
many companies producing add-on comm/memory cards for the PC, doesn't work
with all software. Especially, compiled Basic communications programs, and
certain others. And of course, PC-IX. All the serial cards I tried (several)
had NS 8250's on them from a batch in late '83. I managed to find a Western
Digital 8250, and guess what? It works perfectly.
This is about all I know about this situation - anyone have any more info?
Do you know of a PC-IX version of Umodem?
--Bill Blue
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 16 Aug 84 6:58-PDT
Date: 15 Aug 84 20:25:00-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hp-pcd!uoregon!marka @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Lattice C Program on PCjr Problem
I'm looking for information concerning system hardware/software
glitches on the IBM PCjr.
I have an editor (written in Lattice C v1.04)
that runs fine on the PC and XT (many 100s of hours of testing)
but blows up within the first page of input on the PCjr.
Memory size, allocated stack space, and position in core
of the run image seem to have no (obvious) relationship
to the problem.
Are there known difficulties with :
1 - rapid key input in conjunction with direct video
memory write (to either 0xb800 or 0x1c00)?
2 - touching 6845 registers directly.
3 - unintentional VGA resets
4 - bus errors
Please reply by mail
Randy Goodall
c/o
{hp-pcd,tektronix}!uoregon!marka
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 14 Aug 84 0:26-PDT
Date: 13 Aug 84 6:31:07-PDT (Mon)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!cmcl2!lanl-a!rgt @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: In-Depth MS DOS Book Query
I just received a DEC Rainbow 100+ computer. It has both
CP/M 80/86 and MS-DOS. I have been trying to use the CP/M assembler
for graphics applications, since the GSX-86 graphics package works
under CP/M. I have been having trouble with the assembler skipping
instructions, and with CP/M not doing what the book says it should.
Can anyone give me the names of some good books that explain
CP/M and MS-DOS? I do not want the basic "This is a computer, this
is a power switch" type books. I want books that explain CP/M for
the computer professional. Specifically, I want to know the disk
formats for CP/M disks, how the directories are stored on disk,
how disk block allocation is done for CP/M, how to call CP/M from
assembly language programs, how to modify the operating system to
add my own special features, etc. And the same type of information
for MS-DOS.
I have been programming for over 14 years, and have over 2
years experience with the Intel 8086/88 and 80186/188 family of parts,
so I want books that have some depth.
Thanks in advance.
Richard Thomsen
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 14 Aug 84 21:10:49 EDT
From: Joe Pistritto <jcp@BRL-TGR.ARPA>
To: info-ibmpc@usc-isib.ARPA
Subject: Leading Edge PC and PC/IX Query
I am considering getting one of the Leading Edge PC's with the hard disk
installed, and want to know about running PC/IX on it. I have heard that
it doesn't run straight out of the box. Has anyone had any experience
with this? Also, if it can be made to run, does it work with the processor
set to high speed?
-JCP-
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 16 Aug 84 1:18-PDT
Date: 14 Aug 84 14:59:12-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!sdcrdcf!trwrba!cepu!ucsbcsl!lombrozo @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Data Acquisition/Control with PC Query
Does anyone know of systems using IBM-PC or XT for data acquisition and
control. we are interested in monitoring mechanical testers such as
drop towers and hydraulic fatigue test machines (MTS). We are
currently using a Data General Eclipse with a CAMAC crate. The
advantage is the multi-tasking Fortran. Can MS-fortran be multi-tasked
using a multi-user environment? Any information will be appreciated.
lombrozo@ucsbcsl
Nuclear Engineering
Material Group
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 16 Aug 84 2:44-PDT
Date: 14 Aug 84 12:36:19-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!nsc!voder!gino @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Compaq H/W and ROM Info Query
I have a Compaq; however, the company's attitude towards H/W
documentation seems to be "buy the IBM Tech Ref Manual"
(which isn't quite the same).
Does anyone know how to get real Compaq documentation?
I also would like a ROM listing.
If there is enough response, I'll summarize to this group.
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 16 Aug 84 4:33-PDT
Date: 13 Aug 84 5:20:08-PDT (Mon)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: decvax!ittvax!sii!mem @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: MS-LINK .EXE File Format Query
Can anybody tell me the format of .EXE files created by MS-LINK under
MS/DOS ? Thank you very much-
Mark Mallett
decvax!sii!mem
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 16 Aug 84 11:33 PDT
From: jwaas.ES@XEROX.ARPA
Subject: Used PCs Wanted
To: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
cc: jwaas.ES@XEROX.ARPA
I need to purchase 3 or 4 IBM PC's to establish a network and rather
than get new units would like clean used IBM's. The problem of course is
where can a person find several used IBM's?
Jaye Waas
[Readers: "For Sale" kinds of responses to this message will NOT be
posted. Please limit your replies to Info-IBMPC accordingly. -ed.]
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 17 Aug 84 3:12-PDT
Date: 15 Aug 84 21:46:30-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!harvard!wjh12!bbncca!sdyer @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Sanyo MBC-550 PC Query
I just purchased a Sanyo MBC-555 w/256K, serial port, 2 360K disks and
MSDOS 2.11. I'd like to hear from others with Sanyo PCs to exchange
information, ideas and leads to useful software packages (e.g. reporting
experiences with IBM PC programs which run on the MBC-555.)
I have read the August Byte article (in fact, that helped me make my
decision) but some "live" contacts are always better. I'd be glad, too,
to try to answer any questions non-owners might have, as I become more
familiar with it.
/Steve Dyer
{decvax,linus,ima}!bbncca!sdyer
sdyer@bbncca.ARPA
------------------------------
End of Info-IBMPC Digest
************************
-------
∂21-Aug-84 2056 INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #87
Received: from USC-ISIB.ARPA by SU-AI.ARPA with TCP; 21 Aug 84 20:56:28 PDT
Date: 21 Aug 1984 20:35:20 PDT
Subject: Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #87
From: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC: ;
Info-IBMPC Digest Tuesday, 21 August 1984 Volume 3 : Issue 87
This Week's Editor: Billy Brackenridge
Today's Topics:
Full-screen text-editor for ATT-PC 6300
Maynard Internal Hard Disk Drive
Request for PC C Compiler; Hardware Accelerator or Array Processor
IBM AT DOS 3.0/3.1
"DOS 3.1 is DOS 3.0 Without the Bugs"
Micro Design Hard Disk
Intuit from Noumenon Supports Color
Request for PC C Compiler; Hardware Accelerator or Array Processor
Cleaning Diskette Driver heads
MUMPS (yech)
CAI Authoring Languages query
SPITBOL
Best Keyboard -- Tandy 2000
REASON query
Pascal for PC/IX?
PC/IX Can Run PC/DOS Programs (soon)
Different Disk Formats Under MS-DOS: Xeno-copy
PC Network
Graphics Terminal Emulators
----------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------
Date: 16 Aug 84 9:28:24-PDT (Thu)
From: ihnp4!houxm!homxa!xxajtxx @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Full-screen text-editor for ATT-PC 6300
I would like to get a full-screen text-editor which implements
a subset of vi commands for the ATT-PC 6300 operating on MS-DOS.
Several of us who are used to using vi on UNIX would like to be able to
create and edit documents off-line on the ATT-PC and then upload
via modem to UNIX for merging and printing using nroff. The editor doesn't
have to be fancy - a minimal subset of vi commands will suffice. Our
PC's have 256K ram and 2 floppy disk drives, but no hard disk.
A communications program integrated with the editor would be ideal. My name
and address: Arun Thangaraj , ATT-Bell Labs, WB3J108, 185 Monmouth Parkway,
West Long Branch, NJ 07764. Phone 201-870-7519. Cornet 8-266-5719.
Comments and suggestions welcome.
------------------------------
From: keithe%teklabs@csnet-relay.arpa
Date: Friday, 17 Aug 84 09:55:10 PDT
Subject: Maynard Internal Hard Disk Drive
I've had one of these (purchased from Micro Design International of
Maitland Fla.) in each of two machines for approximately 4 months now.
The machines are PC-I's (64k motherboard) and low-capacity power
supplies.
Both machines had the original full-height, single-sided floppy disk
drives replaced with half-height double sided Shugart 455's before the
addition of the hard disk. In one machine (mine), I found that I could
power the two floppies and the hard disk IFF I could somehow decreased
the power required elsewhere; I took out the color-graphics card that I
wasn't using anyhow.
On the other machine there isn't enough power capacity even with the
above card removal. So it is running with only one floppy for the
moment.
Brief aside:
I purchased two replacement power supplies form a place called FORTRON
Corp of Fremont CA. Either I didn't read their ad very closely or the
information just wasn't there, but I had to chop the heck out of the
back panel of my PC to use their power supply. I have postponed
installing the second power supply in the other machine because of all
the work. And with all the hacking (metal work, not source-code) it
still looks pretty tacky: the power switch doesn't even come out in the
same place! Oh well, it works...
Back to the Maynard drives. I'm quite pleased with the drives and the
help I've gotten from Micro Design. I had a problem with the drive
reporting that it occasionally wasn't passing the (rotational) speed
test. (The green LED, normally a power-on indicator, is used to flash
error codes if the controller finds errors in the start-up
diagnostics.) I called MDI, spoke with someone who actually knew what
he was talking about and got the problem resolved. (The lubricant used
on the disk can build up and cause the head to slow down the disk just
enough for the speed test to fail; using the diagnostic software's
Random Seek test for an hour or two served to re-smooth the stuff and,
so far, no recurrence of the problem.)
Bottom line: I recommend the Maynard disk drive system for the IBM-PC;
and in particular I have had favorable experience with Micro Design
International.
keith ericson at teklabs
------------------------------
Date: 20 Aug 84 11:27:26-PDT (Mon)
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!ut-sally!utastro!nather @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: IBM AT DOS 3.0/3.1
Would you, or one of your colleagues, be willing to post a summary of
all the new, neat things included in MS-DOS 3.0? I have yet to see
any published information on it, and would be very interested in using
it on the PC XT's I work with, as well as on the PC AT's we'll doubtless
obtain after they get the bugs out :-).
--
Ed Nather
{allegra,ihnp4}!{ut-sally,noao}!utastro!nather
Astronomy Dept., U. of Texas, Austin
------------------------------
Date: 16 Aug 84 19:47:15-PDT (Thu)
From: microsoft!gordonl @ Uw-Beaver
Subject: "DOS 3.1 is DOS 3.0 Without the Bugs"
I just love all the various snide comments I read
such as "DOS 3.1 is DOS 3.0 without the bugs".
This kind of stuff indicates envy, which I take as a compliment.
(Though in fairness, the submitter says he was quoting someone else...)
DOS 3.1 is DOS 3.0 with networking software. The networking software
version was delayed due to a variety of problems, related to hardware,
and non-microsoft software, primarily. DOS 3.0 has passed the same
rigid IBM QA process that DOS 3.1 will pass. All software has bugs
but DOS 3.0 is considerably more bugfree than any other version of
DOS.
gordon letwin
microsoft
------------------------------
Date: 16 Aug 84 9:29:24-PDT (Thu)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From:ihnp4!mhuxl!ulysses!burl!clyde!watmath!utzoo!utcsrgv!spoo @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Micro Design Hard Disk
I'm in the market for a hard disk/backup tape package for the PC.
Tallgrass sounds good but is much too pricey. One package I've seen
is a 10 Meg half height with half height tape drive from Micro Design
International Inc with controller and XT power supply for $2095
(US--ouch). Does anybody have any experience with this company and
its products? Or can someone recommend a comparable package at a
comparable price?
Thanks in advance.
--
>From the pooped paws of:
Suk Lee
..!{decvax,linus,allegra,ihnp4}!utcsrgv!spoo
------------------------------
Date: 17 Aug 84 11:00:33-PDT (Fri)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!drutx!drusd!arh @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Intuit from Noumenon Supports Color
The Intuit package from Noumenon does support color displays.
An earlier article said it does not, but the Noumemon contact,
Mike Mead, claims it does.
Mike also said to include $5 for shipping and handling in addition
to the $50 for the product if you send a check with your order (must
be postmarked by midnight Sunday, 8/17). If you select COD you'll
pay the extra charges at deliver time.
A. R. Hansen
drusd!arh
------------------------------
Date: 8 Aug 84 14:29:16-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: tekadg!jm.tek@udel-relay
Subject: Request for PC C Compiler; Hardware Accelerator or Array Processor
Two Things:
1) Suggest a C compiler for use on a real PC that will allow
accessing the hardware via assembly language routines.
Should I have a "ram disk" or other add on to make it run
acceptably fast?
2) Has anyone had any experience with (or pointers to) such
things as "hardware accelerators" or array processors
(like the Marinco APB-3024PC) for use on the PC?
Such a device would make our signal processing faster.
We don't keep old files of net.anything around or I'd look up old
discussions of the first subject. If there are more than two responses
to the second request I will summarize.
I am happy to associate with such fine people as you.
Jeff Mizener / Tektronix ADG / Beaverton, OR
uucp: {ucbvax,decvax,uoregon}
{purdue,masscomp,uw-beaver}
{zehntel,hplabs,allegra,ihnp4}!tektronix!tekadg!jm
ARPA: tekadg!jm.tek@udel-relay CSnet: tekadg!jm@tek
------------------------------
From: Rob-Kling <Kling%UCI-20B@UCI-750a>
Subject: Cleaning Diskette Driver heads
I've had an IBMPC w/2 CDC diskette drivers for a year. I've never
cleaned the heads. According to a friend who is a "reliable source,"
IBM suggests that driver heads *not* be cleaned. However, I imagine that
gunk piles up over the months. Also, I notice new "non-abrasive" disk
cleaning products introduced every month.
From my audiophile experience I've learned that a few
tape/stylus/record cleaners can be wonderful, but some are awful and
even counterproductive. Manufacturer's claims are *no* sure guide.
However, it's possible to listen to the effects of cleaning cassette
tape heads, records, & cartridge stylli on a high resolution stereo
and hear if the effects are audible and constructive.
The PC user has no such immediate source of feedback about whatever
process he subjects his heads to.
I wonder if anybody has some kind of significant experience in this
matter which probably effects us all. Has anybody checked the effects
of cleaners by disassembling drives and examining heads under
magnification? Has anyone used any cleaners frequently for a year or
two on lots of machines & found some terrific (or awful)?
I would appreciate any help w/this matter and will summarize what
information I receive.
Rob Kling
Information and Computer Science
UC-Irvine
kling.uci-20b@uci OR
kling@uci (from ARPAnet or CSnet),and/or
ucbvax!ucivax!kling (from UUCP)
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 20 Aug 84 16:37:37 EDT
From: Ron Natalie <ron@BRL-TGR.ARPA>
To: unix-wizards@BRL-TGR.ARPA, info-ibmpc@usc-isib.ARPA
Subject: MUMPS (yech)
I am looking for information for MUMPS on an IBM-PC (ideally PC-IX)
for a friend. Any ideas?
-Ron
------------------------------
Date: Mon 20 Aug 84 16:04:03-PDT
From: ALFIERI@ECLD.#ECLnet
Subject: CAI Authoring Languages query
In the last few months, there was an article that detailed
several authoring languages packages for CAI development.
Does anyone remember in what journal that article appeared?
I would appreciate any tips on authoring languages, since
I have several users at USC who are interested in developing
CAI.
Thanks in advance.
--vincent alfieri
computing information services
usc
743-5474
alfieri@usc-eclb
-------
------------------------------
Date: 20 AUG 84 1931-PST
From: Robert A. Lerche <XA.W51%STANFORD.BITNET@Berkeley>
To: <BEC.SHAPIN@USC-ECL.ARPA>
Subject: SPITBOL
IBM/PC Macro SPITBOL is available from
Robert B. K. Dewar
SPITBOL Orders
73 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10003
for $195 (New York residents add 8.5% sales tax).
It's VERY good, but does have a few bugs. It is certainly
faster than anything else I've used on the PC.
------------------------------
Date: 21 August 1984 01:35-EDT
From: Richard P. Wilkes <RICK @ MIT-MC>
Subject: Best Keyboard -- Tandy 2000
While IBM seems to be blowing all its "human engineering" dollars when
it comes to keyboard layout, the standard keyboard on the Tandy 2000 is
by far the best in the industry. All the keys are in the right
locations, the return key is large but not huge, tab, shift, etc., are
intelligently laid out, separate cursor keys in an almost diamond
arrangement, separate numeric keypad, and 12 function keys ALONG THE TOP
ROW, SEPARATED BY SPACES EVERY FOUR FOR EASY GROUPING. All in all, I
wish this machine was getting a little more publicity. It is blazing
fast and may even beat the AT.
Take a look at it, folks. -r
------------------------------
Date: 17 Aug 84 19:59:52-PDT (Fri)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: decvax!ittvax!dcdwest!sdcsvax!akgua!sol1!s170 @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: REASON query
In the August 4 issue of PC Magazine, page 364 contains an advertisement
for a "Visi On" (tm) work-alike, being sold by the REASON RESEARCH
PROJECT. The interesting thing about it is its price: $50. Now, they
refer you to an article in the January, 1984 issue of BYTE. This
article rather fuzzily describes a novel software development
architecture, called a "software bus."
My query is this: Does anyone have any experience with this product,
called Reason in the advertisement, Lision in the article, or with
this company?
Reply by mail, please. I will re-post any significant responses.
Thanx, folks.
Russ Schnapp (akgua!sol1!s170)
------------------------------
Date: 17 Aug 84 12:44:16-PDT (Fri)
From: decvax!ittvax!dcdwest!sdcsvax!bill @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Pascal for PC/IX?
Anyone have, or in the process of porting, a Pascal compiler for the IBM PC
under PC/IX?
At UCSD we are converting a laboratory of 60 networked PCs to run PC/IX,
and will be using the lab. primarily for teaching introductory programming.
We intend to continue teaching Pascal (C as a first language makes as much
sense as learning to drive on a Formula race-car).
Our objectives are a 'standard' Pascal compiler, which compiles fast, with
helpful error messages, etc. Code quality is not an issue.
We are willing to work with others in porting or testing an existing
compiler, but want to avoid a major porting effort.
Bill Appelbe (EECS Dept. C-014, UCSD, La Jolla 619-452-3729)
(sdcsvax!bill, or wappelbe@nosc)
P.S. We are porting several UNIX utilities to PC/IX, such as 4.2 'mail',
and will share/swap utilities with interested parties.
------------------------------
Date: Tue 21 Aug 84 10:03:31-PDT
From: Herm Fischer <HFISCHER@USC-ECLB.ARPA>
Subject: PC/IX Can Run PC/DOS Programs (soon)
In their presentations on the PC/AT, the new network, and the new
operating systems, IBM's presenters are barraged with questions
regarding where one would use Xenix and where one would use
PC/IX. The answer they give is a new one to me:
"If you need to use the new IBM LAN, or to run PC-DOS
programs under Unix, then PC/IX is your choice..."
This answer is given because a product called "PC-DOS Connector",
in beta test for September release, allows PC-DOS programs to run
within the PC/IX environment.
PC-DOS Connector will be sold by Uniform (213/395-9674) for a
price said to be in the $300 range. It is said to run Lotus 1-
2-3 under PC/IX! IBM claims that they expect the product to run
their PC Network LAN software in the PC/IX environment. (Perhaps,
with this product, one can run the wealth of PC-DOS word proces-
sors in the Unix environment.)
The company refuses to answer questions on how they handle the
BIOS calls under Unix, because they consider that a trade secret.
-------
------------------------------
Date: 21 Aug 1984 11:27:36 PDT
Subject: Different Disk Formats Under MS-DOS: Xeno-copy
From: Dwight Baker <SWG.DBAKER@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
I have Xeno-copy and like it a lot. It is very easy to use and
support lots of computers. They offer to try to add anything that
uses a soft-sectored diskette. There are two version Xeno-copy which
will let you read from the other system disk and Xeno-copy Plus which
will let you write to the other disk, but not format it.
They can be reached at: Vertex Systems
7950 West Fourth Street
Los Angeles, Ca. 90048
213-938-0857
NOTE: Just a satisfied user
-------
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 21 Aug 84 14:40:36 cdt
From: seung@ut-ngp.ARPA
Posted-Date: Tue, 21 Aug 84 14:40:36 cdt
Subject: PC Network
A while back I sent in a query about an outfit called PC Network. I
only got two responses:
>From: Paul McNabb <pam@Purdue.ARPA>
>
>SUMMARY: PC Network is a good deal for most items but be sure to shop around
>a bit too. Don't rely on immediate delivery from them and make sure you keep
>their 800 number available for when orders are several weeks overdue. Don't
>mess with the software rental fees - they aren't worth the money unless you
>plan to steal what you say you won't. If I were grading them, they'd get a B+.
>From: cbosgd!mark@Berkeley (Mark Horton)
>
>I belong to PC Network. It's a good deal. Here are the disadvantages:
>
>(1) There is a 2 week delay on everything - you order from them, then
> they order it from the mfr. You might not want to wait.
>(2) Their prices are not always lowest . . .
>(3) I joined 2.5 months ago and am still waiting for my catalog.
> . . .
>For only 8 bucks, it's worth it - you'll probably save that much on
>your first purchase alone.
Well, I joined also, since both replies were favorable. My only purchase
so far was 30 floppies, which I got within a week. They were some obscure
brand, but the invoice says "lifetime warranty." This place sells
everything at 8% above wholesale. Macintosh stuff too. Check it out.
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 21 Aug 84 17:00:08 EDT
From: Dave Swindell <dswindel@bbn-labs-b>
Subject: Graphics Terminal Emulators
Cc: jhayter@bbn-labs-b.arpa, hperry@bbn-labs-b.arpa
I am interested in determining what graphics terminal emulators
have been developed for the IBM PC. Do any emulate terminals
other than the Tektronix 4010 series? Do any support graphics
input devices (mouse, cross hairs, etc...)? I'll summarize the
results if there is sufficient interest.
Thanks in advance,
Dave Swindell (dswindell@bbn-unix)
------------------------------
End of Info-IBMPC Digest
************************
-------
∂24-Aug-84 15:13 INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #88
Received: from USC-ISIB.ARPA by SU-AI.ARPA with TCP; 24 Aug 84 15:09:53 PDT
Date: 24 Aug 1984 14:04:39 PDT
Subject: Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #88
From: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC: ;
Info-IBMPC Digest Friday, 24 August 1984 Volume 3 : Issue 88
This Week's Editor: Billy Brackenridge
Today's Topics:
Real-time with RMX-86
MS-DOS Emulators (and Multitasking) & Epsilon
Filters in BASIC
Tandy 2000
Default Screen Colors
Cross Assemblers
Word Perfect on Z-150
Patch to IBM's Personal Editor
Expert System Tools & Software Design Graphics
Interrupt Handler in Turbo Pascal
SANYO 550/555
Graphics Boards
C Compilers Categorized
"DOS 3.1 is DOS 3.0 w/o the Bugs"
Largest Hard disk on the PC/AT
Questions about PC/AT Xenix and Modems
DOS 3.0/3.1 Announcement
PC/XT and PC/AT Differences
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: 20 Aug 84 9:48:29-PDT (Mon)
From: orca!brucec.tektronix@rand-relay
Subject: Real-time with RMX-86
<I couldn't get a reply through, so I'll post this>
>> Does anyone know of systems using IBM-PC or XT for data acquisition and
>> control. we are interested in monitoring mechanical testers such as
>> drop towers and hydrolic fatigue test machines (MTS). We are
>> currently using a Data General Eclipse with a CAMAC crate. The
>> advantage is the multi-tasking Fortran. Can MS-fortran be multi-tasked
>> using a multi-user environment? Any information will be appreciated.
My best advice is to get the version of Intel's RMX-86 which is configured
for the PC. It supports a multi-tasking Fortran, which happens to be the
best Fortran on the 8086 at the moment. The only drawback is that you don't
have MS-DOS any more (hmm... did I say that was a drawback?). Oh, and they
are very expensive. But they will handle process control in a Fortran
environment.
As I understand it, the products were all developed at Intel and are sold and
supported under license by:
Real-Time Computer Science Corporation
P.O. Box 3000-886
Camarillo, CA 93011
Phone: (805) 482-0333
Note: I am not affiliated with RTSC, nor with Intel. I used to work for
Intel, but that just means that I can give you some facts and history behind
what I honestly think of their products. This one is fairly good.
Bruce Cohen
UUCP: ...!tektronix!orca!brucec
CSNET: orca!brucec@tektronix
ARPA: orca!brucec.tektronix@rand-relay
USMail: M/S 61-183
Tektronix, Inc.
P.O. Box 1000
Wilsonville, OR 97070
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 22-Aug-84 03:10:25 PDT
From: Lauren Weinstein <vortex!lauren@RAND-UNIX.ARPA>
Subject: MS-DOS Emulators (and Multitasking) & Epsilon
It can be generally assumed that there will always be a wide variety
of MSDOS programs that will never (in their current forms) be able
to operate properly in a Unix-like multitasking (segmented) environment.
Virtually all of the Unix and Unix-like systems will probably have
MSDOS emulators available in the fairly near future, and all of them
have "restrictions." The reasons are pretty obvious. One need only
consider the many MSDOS programs that try to do "clever" things like
directly manipulate memory, registers, memory management, peripherals,
ports, the console screen, etc. with absolutely no regard for the
possibility that something else MIGHT be running on that machine.
In a single-user, single-tasking environment, of course, this is a
pretty reasonable assumption. But it seems likely that when it
comes to any sort of multitasking environments, we'll find that existing
MSDOS programs tend to fall into one of various classes, ranging from
"runs fine" through "runs degraded" through "forget it." Of course, there
will be some programs that run but leave other processes (or the machine
state) in never, never land. Presumably we'll see a continuum, with
the safest bet always being to simply run MSDOS when you have significant
MSDOS applications that you need to use.
--Lauren--
P.S. By the way, a copy of the EMACS-clone "Epsilon" arrived here
yesterday, and so far it indeed looks pretty decent. I was rather concerned,
however, that to enter set-mark (↑@) I had to enter control-shift-2,
rather than being able to enter the conventional control-2 that I've
come to expect, even from most other EMACS-clones on the PC. Even
worse, after a call to the manufacturer [Lugaru Software] (by the way,
"Lugaru" means "werewolf") I learned that control-2 CAN'T be bound
to any function. In fact, no control-numbers can be bound. However,
after I discussed the issues with them, they agreed that, at the very
least, the control-number keys should map to control-shift-numbers.
This will appear in a future release, and will make it possible to
leave set-mark on the conventional key but allow its more convenient
use. I was impressed with their willingness to accept this suggestion
and their acceptance of constructive criticism in general.
--LW--
------------------------------
Date: Wed 22 Aug 84 11:24:18-EDT
From: Joseph M. Newcomer <NEWCOMER@TL-20B.ARPA>
Subject: Filters in BASIC
Perhaps I have missed something, or perhaps what I want to do is impossible,
but...
I tried to write a filter in BASIC (I needed something quick&dirty). ON ERROR
lets me detect when the redirected input does an EOF (I used LINE INPUT).
PRINT to device SCRN: gave me the equivalent of stderr, and PRINT of course
to stdout. Alas, it appears that BASIC *ECHOES* the input line when
input is redirected. And, cleverly, it echoes it to stdout. So I ended
up having my raw input intermingled with my processed output.
- Is this a bug or a feature?
- Is there a way (including a patch) around it?
Also, is there any way for Basic to retrieve the command line (basica,
actually) so I could put some parameters on it? Or is this all just
a fantasy?
joe
-------
------------------------------
Date: Wed 22 Aug 84 13:59:11-EDT
From: Joseph M. Newcomer <NEWCOMER@TL-20B.ARPA>
Subject: Tandy 2000
The Tandy 2000 keyboard looks really great; I've considered getting one
of the machines. However, they blew it badly in one respect; the symbols
"|", "\", "~" and "`" are shift keys on the numeric pad. Since "|"
and "\" are really important under MS-DOS 2.x, I find the placement on
the IBM keyboard much better (and I never thought I'd have anything good
to say about that keyboard...). Also, the ALT key on the IBM-PC keyboard
is ideally placed to be a META-shift key, and if you have Gosling EMACS
that is a really convenient feature (and yes, you can't meta-shift
all the keys without patching in your own interrupt -level code, which
I hope someday UniPress will do, but it is "good enough"). The 2000 has
no equivalent key. Sigh. What I really like about the 2000 is the
superb quality of the color graphics; the PC/AT seems to be a disappointment
in this regard, since no new color interfaces were announced.
What I dislike is the "closed architecture"; I can't add interesting
non-Radio Shack gear. And a 10Mb disk is just way too small; in two
weeks we have consumed 40% of our PC/XT disk just getting the basic
software up (EMACS, UniPress C, applications software...). note that the
EMACS is a binary-only license and I left all of the C library source
on diskette; this is just the .h and .lib files, plus the compiler itself!
I'm in the market for a 40+Mb add on disk for a PC; or if anyone knows about
add on disks for a Tandy 2000, I'd like to hear about them; it will aid
my decision.
joe
-------
-------
-------
------------------------------
Date: 21 Aug 84 16:54:57-PDT (Tue)
From: ihnp4!houxm!ho95b!wcs @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Default Screen Colors
How can I change the default screen colors on my PC?
I tried using the ANSI driver, and echoing escape sequences to
change the colors; this works ok for many applications, but
the screen gets reset by programs such as SIMTERM, EMACS, and
BASICA, and of course doesn't work for standalone basic.
In SIMTERM, with the ANSI driver, I can change the color by using the
HP display enhancement escape sequences, which will give me a
few colors; I'm currently using green-on-black, but I can't get
the white-on-blue that I'd prefer.
Thanks for any advice; Bill
--
Bill Stewart
AT&T Bell Labs, Holmdel NJ
...!ihnp4!ho95b!wcs
------------------------------
Date: Thu 23 Aug 84 10:04:45-PDT
From: Rob C. Chang <CHANG@SU-SCORE.ARPA>
Subject: Cross Assemblers
Does anyone have any experience with Avocet's 6502 or 68000 cross assemblers?
Please send responses to CHANG@SCORE.
Thanks,
Rob Chang
-------
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 23 Aug 84 13:25 EDT
From: Elefante@RADC-MULTICS.ARPA
Subject: Word Perfect on Z-150
Can anyone tell me if Word Perfect (Satellite Software International)
running on a Zenith Z-150 can take advantage of the "Flash"
performance feature designed for the IBM-PC with monochrome display?
Don Elefante
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 23 Aug 84 21:29 GMT
From: BRENGLE%LLL@LLL-MFE.ARPA
Subject: Patch to IBM's Personal Editor
Telephone: (415) 422-1543, [FTS 532-1543]
Office-Location: Bldg 543, room 1046
Postal-Address: LLNL, PO Box 5511, L-630, Livermore, CA 94550
After using IBM's Personal Editor for several months, I decided that there
were two things which I would like to change about it:
1. When run, PE comes up with the full screen "IBM" display
and copyright notice. This is done in bold and is overly
bright.
2. Once this has been displayed, PE waits for the user to hit
another return before it continues.
The following patch using DEBUG will disable the "IBM" notice and also
the wait for the extra return.
Step 1: Rename the PE.EXE file so that the code will not get relocated
when loaded under DEBUG;
REN PE.EXE PE.XXX
Step 2: Load PE.XXX under DEBUG;
DEBUG PE.XXX
Step 3: Search for the start of the code block to be disabled;
S 0 FFFF C7 06 08 F4 01 00
DEBUG should respond with something of the form XXXX:XX89,
where XXXX:XX are the high order digits of the address.
Step 4: Disable the block of code by loading it with NOP's;
F XXXX:XX89 XXF7 90
where the XX in XXF7 is the same as the XX in XX89.
Step 5: Write out the modified file and quit;
W
Q
Step 6: Rename the file back to PE.EXE
REN PE.XXX PE.EXE
All done!
I saw a message here quite a while ago that it is possible to stuff
characters into the keyboard input buffer. Does anyone know how to
do this? I would like to use some of the bytes that I have NOPed
out the put an alt-I in the input buffer, so I could set the alt-I
command to do initialization of the editor. Any suggestions?
Thanks,
Tom
[See BUF160.ASM in the INFO-IBMPC Program Library for an example of
how to manipulate the BIOS input buffer -ed]
-------
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 23 Aug 84 14:35 MST
From: LMiller%pco@CISL-SERVICE-MULTICS.ARPA
Subject: Expert System Tools & Software Design Graphics
To: Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA
I am interested in leads (phone numbers, addresses, ...) for two kinds of
tools for the IBM-PC (any model / compatible). The tools are: expert system
building tools (have seen expert-ease and M.1 $$$) and software design graphics
for CAE support of software design (have seen excelerator). Any help in this
regard would be very much appreciated...Lance
------------------------------
Date: 21 Aug 84 17:10:45-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!houxm!hogpc!pegasus!hocsl!dmt @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Interrupt Handler in Turbo Pascal
I am looking for some help with a Turbo Pascal problem.
I'm writing an interrupt handler, and would prefer doing
it in Turbo if I can. The guidance I get from the Turbo manual
(B.1.10, page 184) includes the admonition,
"The programmer must initialize the interrupt vector used to
activate the interrupt service routine." So far, obvious.
But HOW do you get the entry point of the interrupt
service routine to put in the vector?
Right now I'm using an ugly kludge where "inline" machine code
gets the instruction counter, increments it by a known small
number (obtained by looking at the .COM file with DEBUG),
and plants it in the vector.
I'd appreciate hearing from anyone with a more elegant approach
to the problem. I DO know how to do it in assembler and CI C86,
but I'd rather do it in Turbo if I can.
Thanks in advance.
Dave Tutelman - ATTIS Holmdel
------------------------------
Date: 21 Aug 84 19:19:01-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: decvax!mcnc!ecsvax!jko @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: C Tools-2 from Blaise Computing & DOS Calls from Interrupt Code
Blaise Computing of Berkeley, CA has a package called C Tools-2 that lets you
easily manipulate, install, etc. interrupts very easily. It also provides
utilities for calling programs, DOS calls, etc. It is a very powerful package
at an excellent price. Furthermore, their most recent newsletter, published a
program explaining how to utilize the critical section flag of DOS to use DOS
calls from a resident interrupt program.
This information comes from my son, Matt, who can be reached through my
mail address.
jonathan k. ocko
decvax!mcnc!ecsvax!jko
------------------------------
Date: 21 Aug 84 12:41:51-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!mhuxl!ulysses!burl!clyde!watmath!utzoo!utcsrgv!utai!indra@Ucb-Vax
Subject: SANYO 550/555
I have a SANYO MBC 555 with two double sided disk drives,
256K ram. Other than Wordstar and other business stuff that comes
free, I have an Xlisp interpreter (which is in the public domain)
and TURBO PASCAL (which I bought)
[1]
As a so-so programmer, I'd like to hear from people who have
used other programming languages on the SANYO, especially people who
have tried C compilers. I would like to hear about DeSmet C which is
supposedly selling for US$100.
[2]
Rumours of a card cage (through the 'external' slot) that will
accept *some* IBM PC plug on cards have been circulating, does anyone
have any info on this?
[3]
How about people who have tried hard disks? There appears to
be one instance of it being mentioned in SOFT SECTOR (Sanyo user's Mag).
[4]
Any replies will be really appreciated.
.............................................................................
utcsrgv!utai!indra
(Indra Laksono @ CSRI, U of T)
[----------------------]
[No, You don't know me.] :-] --
[----------------------]
------------------------------
Date: 24 Aug 1984 01:45:31 EDT
Subject: Graphics Boards
From: Steven Ambrose <AMBROSES@USC-ISI.ARPA>
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
POSTAL ADDRESS:S.P.Ambrose,SMC -1004,NPGS,Monterey,CA.93943
PHONE:(HOME)408-373-1591(OFFICE)408-646-2772 AV878-2772
Has anyone been using, or have any information on the following
color/monochrome graphics boards:
Bi-Graphic I/II from PC Components
The Graphics Edge from Everex
Graphix Plus II from STB Systems
I'm considering purchasing one of the three and any thoughts would be
appreciated.
I'll summarize if there are enough responses.
-------
------------------------------
Date: 22 Aug 84 6:13:11-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!cbosgd!cbdkc1!desoto!packard!hoxna!kfl @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: C Compilers Categorized
The most popular of these is probably the Computer Innovations C86
compiler. It now supports 32 bit pointers (i.e. 1M addressing) and
is very compatible with UNIX compilers. It also is compatible with
the MS-DOS linker. Technical support from the company is excelent.
Lattice is more expensive and I understand that it is less
compatible with UNIX.
DeSmet is the cheapest of the bunch. It has a MUCH smaller library
and I hear it has several bugs.
I would recommend C86 for production type work and DeSmet for home
computing. By the way, I use the IBM PC version of C86 on my
Zenith Z100 with no problems. There are some IBM PC dependent
subroutines in the library (graphics stuff), but these are easy to
modify since full source is included.
--
Kenton Lee, Bell Labs - WB
wb3g!kfl or hoxna!kfl
------------------------------
Date: Tue 21 Aug 84 23:34:40-CDT
From: John Otken <CC.Otken@UTEXAS-20.ARPA>
Subject: "DOS 3.1 is DOS 3.0 w/o the Bugs"
To: info-ibmpc@USC-ISIB.ARPA
No doubt then the IBM Macro Assembler by Microsoft passed the same
rigid QA process... I'm sure too.
-------
------------------------------
Date: Thu 23 Aug 84 11:39:54-EDT
From: Eric.Crane@CMU-CS-C.ARPA
Subject: Largest Hard disk on the PC/AT
Does anyone know what the largest disk the PC/AT can handle?
Thanks
Eric Crane
(ERC@CMU-CS-C.ARPA)
-------
------------------------------
Date: 23 Aug 1984 1136-PDT
From: HAL.DOVE at Ames-VMSB
Subject: Questions about PC/AT, Xenix, and Modems
Here is a nice list of question hopefully I can get help with:
1. What is the word on the new ATT PC. From the description of the
machine, the processor, full 16 bit data bus, etc, it would seem
to get a hell of a lot more than the advertised 80% increase.
I would easily expect 2 to 3 times the speed. It is not quite
clear whether that 80% advertised speed increase is disk bound or
what. Rumor also has it is that the SCO Xenix fired right up on
the ATT PC. Anyone have one with Xenix?
2. Someone who does have Xenix, please help here: What has been done
on the current version (3.0?) of Xenix. From talking to SCO
personally, they say all major bugs are fixed in this version, but
there are some minor things to fix. Then from another source, I
was told the multiuser facility for the PC version was not working.
A few small questions: Does Xenix handle the hard disk buffering
well (i.e. not using 4k chuncks on the disk)? What is the largest
hard disk that can be used with Xenix?
3. On the subject of modems: What modems on the market do people really
like that are hayes compatible. Since at this time, only hayes
drivers are available for Xenix. I would prefer an external modem
since this modem will need to be used for a standalone terminal, so
it will need its own internal software. It needs to be auto-dial,
selectable auto-answer (I do not want to have to unplug the modem when
I leave to prevent it form answering the phone.) Auto-redial would
be nice. I would like it to store numbers, possibly prioritized
dialing, hayes compatible and of course bell 212a 1200 baud. Most
modems I have been researching will do, except for the fact that
all the ones I have seen do not have selectable auto-answer...
4. Are there people on the net who can send me some good benchmarking
programs, or let me know if a magazine hs published them. In C
would be preferable. And ones that test cpu speed, system calls
if being benchmarked on unix, disk io, etc.
Thanks in advance...
Mike
p.s. A note for the EDITOR: I was interested in the approximate size of
the info-ibmpc mailing list archives. Since they are huge, I would
just like to know how much disk space I should put aside. Thanks
[The <INFO-IBMPC> directory is currently using 2500 disk pages. 1008
pages are devoted to archived digests. A page is 512 36 bit words. We
just used Kermit to bring the directory to floppy disks. It takes 13
drives to hold the public portions of INFO-IBMPC directory. Please be
warned when starting FTPs of the digests archives or program library -ed]
------
------------------------------
Date: 22 Aug 84 18:35:19-PDT (Wed)
From: hplabs!sdcrdcf!randvax!jim @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: DOS 3.0/3.1 Announcement
-------
I was at the Dallas announcement meeting last week, so I'm in a good position
to respond to the request for IBM's DOS 3.0/3.1 announcement. I'll
summarize:
DOS 3.0 (6024180)
Provides support for the AT hardware plus all functions contained in
the prior version of DOS (2.10). Does not replace DOS 2.10.
Supports national keyboards (what some of us might think of as "foreign").
It's upward-compatible with 2.10 and contains "maintenance updates" -
bug-fixes, I guess, but they aren't specified. Requires min 36K; 2.10
used 24K. New features are:
o File sharing on a per-file basis.
o Block locking: "provides the ability to restrict access to all or part of
a file when the file is opened in a shared mode.
o 2.1's background PRINT modified to support path specs and an "internal
programming interface". I hope that means we can keep it from doing the
obligatory form feed at the end.
o New interrupt 21H functions for "enhanced file management" (not specified)
o Enhanced error recovery
AT-specific features:
o Support for 1.2M diskette drives, non-volatile timer, larger fixed disk.
o BASIC modified
o Screen dump for other display interfaces and printers, including color prtr.
o RAM disk supports memory above 1M on the AT
o Large linker: up to 1M
o National keyboard stuff
---------
DOS 3.1 (6024211) - announced for 1Q85
3.1 will replace 3.0 when it becomes available. As JGL said, it is like 3.0
with the network enhancements thrown in. It may be worth noting that there
must be some network support in already - IBM was running a LAN of about half
a dozen PC's using DOS 3.0 and special software written for entering orders
at the meeting.
Features:
o Support for redirector: Allows addition of IBM PC Network file server
and print server package to DOS 3.1. This package is available separately
from DOS and requires the IBM PC Network hardware.
Provides the means by which a user can access printer and DASD devices
located on other computers on the IBM Network.
o New interrupt 21H functions: additional function calls providing support
for the network environment.
o Extended error recovery for the network environment
o Join: splicing of directories
o Subst: substitute string (a virtual drive name for a path name)
-------------------
Those are the highlights. Nothing about concurrent processing, which a lot
of us were expecting in what we were calling DOS 3.0 a few months ago.
However, the TopView program, which is announced for 1Q85, has concurrent
processes and windowing. The beta test version of TopView already has
a lot of functionality - a real RAM hog, of course, since all the programs
need to live in memory simultaneously - no swapping to winchester.
Enough for now - ask if you need more detail on these or the other product
announcements.
Jim Gillogly
{vortex, decvax}!randvax!jim
------------------------------
Date: Friday, 24 Aug 1984 08:23:59-PDT
From: waters%viking.DEC@decwrl.ARPA (Lester Waters)
Subject: PC/XT and PC/AT Differences
Below is a hastily compiled list of what I believe to be the salient
differences between the PC/XT and the PC/AT. I still have not completely
checked on some of the new ROM functionality, especially in the area of
multi-tasking support. If there are any significant errors, I will
send around an update.
0) 80286 vs. 8088/86. There are some real differences here that I will
cover later if requested.
1) Max memory of 15Mb (less 128Kb ROM space). IBM says that the AT only
supports 3MB. This is due to the fact that they only have 512Kb option
cards and 3Mb fills 6-slots. Watch for 3rd party 1-2Mb options.
2) 16 levels of interrupt support. Accomplished by adding a 2nd 8259.
IRQ9 is redirected to IRQ2 to compensate for the fact that IRQ2 is
no longer on the bus, but IRQ9 is. (I don't know why!)
3) 4 8-bit DMA channels (chl 0 is no longer used for refresh).
3 16-bit (word boundary only) DMA channels (2nd 8237 cascaded)
4) Real Time Clock/Calendar/Alarm/NVM (Motorola 146818) Large Lithium
battery attached to case with Velcro and motherboard with connector
5) Fixed Disk (not even closely compatible except at the ROM BIOS interface
and even there they have changed it slightly):
No DMA! 512 byte sector buffer that is directly accessible memory.
ST412 Interface, 5Mb transfer rate, WD1010 controller
Max support: 16 heads, 1024 cyl.
3:1 interleave instead of 7:1
6) 14.31818 Mhz clock independent of processor clock. Used for driving
8253 Timer and Video sub-system.
7) High density 1.2Mb diskettes (made by YE Data). 360 RPM, 15 Sectors,
96 tpi, 2-sided, can read 48tpi by double stepping. Supports status
change line.
8) 84 key keyboard (extra SYS REQ key). Identical software interface, but
electrically incompatible. Bi-directional + LED support in ROM.
9) Keylock freezes keyboard and cover. You can still power it off.
10) 64Kb ROM:
- Move arbitrary 32Kb of memory to/from addresses above 1Mb in
Real mode.
- Enter Protected mode (cannot use BIOS any longer).
- Multi-tasking hooks. (more later)
- TOD support with alarm function
- Video write string function added
- Status line change from high density diskette
- Read/Set drive type for diskettes and fixed disks.
- New ROM BIOS fixed disk support.
11) Minor changes to the 8-bit bus. Hardware depending on a specific
system clock frequency will no longer work. The 14Mhz clock is
still provided but is not synchronous with the system clock.
------------------------------
End of Info-IBMPC Digest
************************
-------
∂29-Aug-84 2029 INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #89
Received: from USC-ISIB.ARPA by SU-AI.ARPA with TCP; 29 Aug 84 20:28:52 PDT
Date: 29 Aug 1984 20:00:33 PDT
Subject: Info-IBMPC Digest V3 #89
From: Info-IBMPC Digest <Info-IBMPC@USC-ISIB.ARPA>
To: Info-IBMPC: ;
Info-IBMPC Digest Wednesday, 29 August 1984 Volume 3 : Issue 89
This Week's Editor: Eliot Moore
Today's Topics:
AT Compatibility (3 messages)
AT Xenix Multiprocessing
Pascal Program Editor
Timestamping (2 messages)
PC/IX on non-IBM disk
Sanyo Users Groups
PC/IX Mouse driver
Epsilon Editor
Quadlink and Async problem
DOS calls from Interrupt routine
MUMPS
Mindset
Okidata Plug&Play
Popcorn Codename
dbase III
dbase II
Simple keyboard driver
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 26 Aug 84 0:29-PDT
Date: 24 Aug 84 11:02:56-PDT (Fri)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!sdcrdcf!trwrba!cepu!ucsbcsl!lombrozo @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: AT Compatibility
We are thinking of buying 2 IBM-AT for our materials lab. One would be
used for instrumented control and data acquisition of our mechanical
testors, the other for numerical analysis and number crunching. If
anybody out there has info regarding user friendliness of these systems,
available software and compatibility of the AT with the XT/MSDOS
software, please let me know. Suggested configuration recommendation
for high I/O use would also be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
lombrozo @ ucsbcsl
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 26 Aug 84 1:05-PDT
Date: 23 Aug 84 13:15:00-PDT (Thu)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: pur-ee!uiucdcs!ylee @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: pascal program editor?
Does any one in the netland know if there are pascal program
editors for the ibm pc (or program editors in general that accept
language grammars) available in public domain or for purchase?
Or if there are such program editors that can be ported to the pc?
Any pointers would be greatly appreciated.
ylee@uiuc.csnet
ihnp4!uiucdcs!ylee
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 29 Aug 84 5:15-PDT
Date: 28 Aug 84 9:29:19-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!intelca!cem @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: AT Compatibility
In reference to the incompatibility of using PC boards with the AT, this
is sorta of true and sort of false. The PC AT has an additional card edge
connector in "front" of the PC compatible edge connector. This extra
connector has the extended address lines and some other useful signals
that are present on the 80286, the problem arises from the fact that some
manufacturers, in order to get an extra couple of square inches of board
space made there boards with an overhang. In military jargon this "conflicts"
with the second connector. Attempt at picture follows :
Bad Good
| | | |
| | | |
| +-+ | ------------------------+ |
+---------------------+ +-------+ +-------+
So if you have a "good" board it will work.
--
-- Chuck - - - D I S C L A I M E R - - -
{ihnp4,fortune}!dual\ All opinions expressed herein are my
{proper,idi}-> !intelca!cem own and not those of my employer, my
{ucbvax,hao}!hplabs/ friends, or my avocado plant. :-}
ARPAnet : "hplabs!intelca!cem"@Berkeley
------------------------------
From: Jim Gillogly <jim@rand-unix>
Date: 24 Aug 84 20:49:02 PDT (Fri)
To: info-ibmpc@isib
Subject: AT multiprocessing under Xenix
It was suggested in Info-ibmpc that the multiprocessing feature isn't
working in the AT. That's mostly false. It comes with a 16-user license,
and they had a PC AT at the show running Xenix with two PC's plugged into
its serial ports as terminals. So that much at least works (to the extent
that they demonstrated).
However, so far that's the limit: one console and two remote running off
the serials. That's a restriction with the serial ports - the guy demoing
it said that you could not hang more serial ports on the AT. I'm not a
hardware hack, so I'm not sure why - from the last digest it appears that
there are now 16 interrupt levels, so the old restrictions on that should
be freed up. In any case, the guy suggested that 3rd party hardware
suppliers were likely to come out with more serial ports, so I guess it's
not wired out in the design. But who would WANT to run a dozen users
on a machine that size?
One of the features they were proudest of was the spring-loaded IBM logo on
the CPU box: you can put it on its side on the floor, and when you do you
can pull the logo out, give it a 90-degree turn, and let go - presto, you've
got your logo right-side-up again!!!!!
Jim Gillogly
jim@rand-unix
{vortex, decvax}!randvax!jim
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 26 Aug 84 4:57-PDT
Date: 24 Aug 84 14:14:19-PDT (Fri)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!houxm!hogpc!btb @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: AT Software Compatibility
If anyone has any experience running IBM PC or PC/XT software on
the PC/AT (either "it works" or "it doesn't"), I'm very interested
in your reports. Please post to the net or mail responses to me;
I'll post a summary of everything I get.
--Bruce Burger AT&T-Information Systems Freehold, NJ
{...ihnp4!}hogpc!btb
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 25 Aug 84 1:11-PDT
Date: 22 Aug 84 16:33:56-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: decvax!mcnc!ecsvax!mas @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Timestamping
Does anyone know of an easy way to "touch" a file in MSDOS?
i.e to modify the time stamp to the current time.
There must be some clever dos call that will do such a thing.
Thanks in advance,
mark shifman ...{decvax,akgua}!mcnc!ecsvax!mas
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 28 Aug 84 0:28-PDT
Date: 25 Aug 84 11:13:05-PDT (Sat)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!tektronix!uw-beaver!microsoft!markz @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Timestamping
Does anyone know of an easy way to "touch" a file in MSDOS?
i.e to modify the time stamp to the current time.
There must be some clever dos call that will do such a thing.
Two ways:
o Ugly: Open file for I/O, read first byte, seek back to 0 and write it back.
o Clean(er): Open file (open system call) get current date/time (getdate and
gettime system calls) set the time on the handle (filetimes system call)
and close it.
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 27 Aug 84 22:29-PDT
Date: 25 Aug 84 9:46:52-PDT (Sat)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!mgnetp!burl!clyde!watmath!utzoo!utcsrgv!utai!indra @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Sanyo Users Groups
This is an almost complete list of Sanyo 550/555 user's group
obtained from the 2nd newsletter released by Sanyo Canada.
< I'm not related to Sanyo Canada in any way, just thought >
< that someone would like to know. >
CALIFORNIA. NORTH CAROLINA
Sanyo PC Hackers (International) Sanyo CP/M-MS/DOS Group
Cal Lindell John L. Johnson
12155, Edgecliff Pl. 707 Edge Hill Road
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 New Bern, N. C. 28560
(415) 941-2796 (919) 638-6976
Sanyo Users Group of Sacramento NEW YORK
Randy Jones North American Sanyo 555 Users Group
10155 Goinyour Way Howard P. Alvir, Ph.D.
Scramento, CA 95827 27, Norwood Street
(916) 362-8305 Albany, NY 12203
COLORADO New York Sanyo Users Group
Denver Area Sanyo Users Group Patrick Yanez
Jerry W. Smith P.O. Box 1822
9997 West 85th Avenue Times Plaza Station, NY 11217
Arvada, CO 80005 (212) 855-9029
(303) 424-7499
modem (303) 431-0051 VIRGINIA
Washington Area Computer Users
MASSACHUSETTS Group
Sanyo Users Group/ USA Edward Cavert
Jim Hornig-Rohan 4302 Hadley Lane
P.O. Box 8069 Fairfax, VA 22032
Boston, MA 02114
MICHIGAN
S.U.G.G.E.S.T. Sanyo
(Special Users Group Gathering
Enjoying Sanyo Technology)
Ralph Landry
Michigan Software
43345 Grand River
Novi, MI 48050
(313) 348-4477
CANADA/ONTARIO/TORONTO
S.M.U.G.
(Sanyo Micro Users Group)
Cavan Kelly/Indra Laksono,
P.O. Box 575,
Station P,
Toronto M5S 2T1
ONT, CAN
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I can't speak for the groups in the state, but S.M.U.G. is offering
free membership to users in Toronto. We want to get in touch with the users
to share experience with. I won't start a history lesson, but S.M.U.G. was
started by Cavan Kelly, I was the first to join.
Soft Sector should be available at all authorised dealers of Sanyo.
I bought mine at SciTron on Bay. C$3.95
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
..!utcsrgv!utai!indra
(Indra Laksono @ U of T)
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 24 Aug 84 22:52:09 edt
From: Alan Parker <parker@nrl-css>
To: INFO-IBMPC@USC-ISIB
Subject: PC/IX on non-IBM hard disk
I tried to install PC/IX on a PC with a 10Meg hard disk from Mirco
Design International of Orlando. The disk is a Micro Science half
height and the controller is from WD. The disk and controller
installed and checked out fine. It seems to work with DOS and runs
the IBM diagnostics.
However, when installing PC/IX it doesn't work very well. When the
"install" program from the maintenance disk is run, it flashes a message
saying "HD: initialization failed". But then install seems to run ok.
We loaded the PC/IX core system. This seemed to go ok. We could mount
the HD partition from the maintenance disk and look at it. All the
normal unix stuff was there. However, it won't boot. When we boot,
we again get the HD: init failed message (I suspect from the first level
bootstrap). It looks like unix then loads, but dies when it tries to
start up with a "PANIC: HD controller failure".
1. Anyone out there expert enough with PC/IX to guess what's happening?
2. I would like to hear from anyone that has built PC/IX on any non-IBM
hard disk controller.
Please reply to me directly and I will summarize to the list if I learn
anything useful.
ARPA: parker@nrl-css
UUCP: decvax!nrl-css!parker
-Alan
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 28 Aug 84 3:13-PDT
Date: 25 Aug 84 21:46:20-PDT (Sat)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: decvax!cca!ima!cfib!shel @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: PC/IX Mouse driver
We are developing some new software for the IBM PC to run under PC/IX.
Has anyone written a driver for the Mouse Systems or Microsoft Mouse
which will run under PC/IX?
Before we convert the code from the 'track.asm' I thought I would
check.
Thanks....
Sheldon Laube, The Consumer Financial Institute, Boston, MA 617-965-9652
{decvax!yale|allegra|amd70|ihnp4|ucbvax!cbosgd}!ima!cfib!shel
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 29-Aug-84 17:24:17 PDT
From: Lauren Weinstein <vortex!lauren@RAND-UNIX.ARPA>
Subject: Lugaru's "Epsilon" editor
To: INFO-IBMPC@ISIB
A new version of Epsilon showed up here today. Changes include
the lifting of macro number/length restrictions, an optional bell
warning for certain conditions, and the keyboard mapping change
which I suggested to them only last week! Talk about fast work!
There are also a few other random bugs and minor problems fixed.
I am once again impressed at their product and professionalism.
--Lauren--
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 26 Aug 84 8:26-PDT
Date: 25 Aug 84 16:27:39-PDT (Sat)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!ihuxj!dob @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: QUADLINK and Async card
I have an application that runs on the apple that I need to
transfer to an IBM-PC with QUADLINK. The program comes up, but
I can't get it to read data off the PC SERIAL card. What am I
doing wrong? Won't the QUADLINK drive the SERIAL card?
Daniel M. O'Brien
AT&T Bell Laboratories
IH 4A-258
Naperville, IL 60566
....!ihuxj!dob
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 26 Aug 84 5:59-PDT
Date: 24 Aug 84 6:02:38-PDT (Fri)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!mhuxl!ulysses!burl!clyde!watmath!wateng!broehl @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: DOS Calls from Interrupt Routine
The following may be of some use:
mov ah,34h
int 21h
This sequence returns in ES:BX the address of a byte indicating (when set)
that DOS is in an uninterruptible state (i.e. that no DOS calls should be
made).
--
-Bernie Roehl (University of Waterloo)
...decvax!watmath!wateng!broehl
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 26 Aug 84 4:55-PDT
Date: 24 Aug 84 11:49:39-PDT (Fri)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: ihnp4!mit-eddie!ronnie @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: MUMPS
Two companies produce MUMPS interpreters for the IBM PC. They
are pretty expensive:
Innovative Systems, which I believe is in Denver
and Micronetics, which is in Washington, DC
If you are interested in a low-cost one, someone once told me that
Dick Walters at UCD could get one.
-Ron
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 24 Aug 84 22:27-PDT
Date: 22 Aug 84 18:44:00-PDT (Wed)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: pur-ee!uiucdcsb!heuring @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Mindset
Having read the reviews (previews?) of the Mindset computer in BYTE and
several other publications I still have a few questions.
1) How fast can the machine do a screen update. The 7220 from NEC
is slow doing updates, is there any time figure available for the
Mindset?
2) The Mindset is billed as a graphics engine but none of the articles
that I've read have given any benchmarks pertaining to graphics
operations that one might expect to be done such as rotation, trans-
lation, zooming in, etc.
Thanks,
Jerry Heuring
uiucdcsa!uiucdcsb!heuring
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 25 Aug 84 4:46-PDT
Date: 24 Aug 84 9:24:36-PDT (Fri)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!tektronix!stever @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: Okidata Plug&Play
HINT: I read somewhere recently that the Plug&Play roms emulate
the IBM version of the EPSON printer. As I understand it IBM's
dot matrix printer supports the 256 character set of the IBM PC,
which my MX-100 certainly does not! Apparently salesmen cannot
cope with this subtle point as it is common for them to tell
people that the Plug&Play roms emulate the EPSON.
Steve Rogers--tektronix!stever
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 28 Aug 84 6:58-PDT
Date: 24 Aug 84 13:25:09-PDT (Fri)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From:
hplabs!sdcrdcf!sdcsvax!akgua!psuvax1!burdvax!bsdgvax!albrecht @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: "Popcorn" codename
[]
According to Information Systems News (8/20) the IBM PC AT
is not the long-awaited "Popcorn". They still expect IBM to unveil
another system later this year "based on technology developed at IBM."
Why would IBM release the PC AT with Xenix while offering PC IX
at the same time on the PC XT? Any ideas?
--
Tom Albrecht Burroughs Corp.
SDG/Devon
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 26 Aug 84 15:12-PDT
Date: 25 Aug 84 22:13:09-PDT (Sat)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!sdcrdcf!trwrba!cepu!ucsbcsl!forrest @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: DBase III
Has anybody had any experience with the new version of DBase, DBase III?
(If replies warrant, I will summarize for the net)
Thanks,
Jon Forrest
ucbvax!ucsbcsl!forrest
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 27 Aug 84 1:27-PDT
Date: 26 Aug 84 19:57:35-PDT (Sun)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!cmcl2!lanl-a!jp @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: dbase II
I believe that I have discovered a feature of dBASE II v. 2.4.
The report command has a new option 'WHILE' <exp>' that terminates the
report as soon as the while condition is not satisfied. The feature is
that 'WHILE' does not work in combination with 'FOR <exp>'. I thought
that I would be clever and fix up a way to terminate the report prematurely
by using the patch (I forgot where it comes from) that stores the most recent
keyboard character in a location (337 decimal) that does not get zeroed
by dBASE II. Then I could set up the report something like:
REPORT FORM TEST FOR LASTNAME='D' WHILE PEEK(337)<>3 TO PRINT
Then, if I was unhappy with the report I could quit with a CTL-C instead
of waiting for the whole thing to finish or hitting the reset button (not a
good practice if you have recently edited a file.)
Both the 'FOR' and the 'WHILE' options work OK by themselves, but not together
in either order.
Maybe I ask too much of dBASE II. Does anyone have a good idea about how
to interrupt a report output without hitting reset???
Jim Potter jp@LANL
------------------------------
Received: from Usenet.uucp by Sri-Unix.uucp with rs232; 29 Aug 84 3:45-PDT
Date: 28 Aug 84 6:27:42-PDT (Tue)
To: info-ibmpc @ Usc-Isib.arpa
From: hplabs!hao!seismo!rlgvax!geller @ Ucb-Vax.arpa
Subject: simple keyboard handler
I have an application that needs for there to be a new interrupt
driven keyboard handler written for the IBM PC. This new handler
must be able to fill a ring-buffer of designated size with the
scan codes of the characters pressed - no translation is needed.
This will solve the problem of not being able to detect certain
control and alt combinations under the BIOS handler. I have a
very good notion of how I would like this done. In my mind it is
very simple. I just need some help in knowing how to modify the
interrupt vector table so that the system uses my routine and how
to return to the system (table) to its normal state. Any help or
leads would be very appreciated. I need to do this in the VERY near
future. Thanks.
rlgvax!geller David P. Geller
Computer Consoles, Inc.
703-648-3483 Office Systems Group
11490 Commerce Park Drive
Reston, VA 22091
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End of Info-IBMPC Digest
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