ST Report: 23-Jul-93 #930

From: Bruce D. Nelson (aa789@cleveland.Freenet.Edu)
Date: 07/25/93-03:15:29 PM Z


From: aa789@cleveland.Freenet.Edu (Bruce D. Nelson)
Subject: ST Report: 23-Jul-93 #930
Date: Sun Jul 25 15:15:29 1993



                            SILICON TIMES REPORT
                            ====================
                       INTERNATIONAL ONLINE MAGAZINE
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 July 23, 1993                                                    No. 9.30
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> 07/23/93 STR 930    "The Original * Independent * Online Magazine!"
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                  WHAT'S NEW IN THE ATARI FORUMS (July 23)


ATARI IN THE NEWS

This is a GREAT TIME for Atari-related  announcements.  First, the alliance
between Atari  and  IBM  for  the new  Jaguar,  and  now  Gribnif  Software
announces  GENEVA, their  new multi-tasking  environment.   See the  GENEVA
press  releases in LIB 15  of the Atari Arts Forum  (GO ATARIARTS) or go to
the  Gribnif section/library in the  Atari Vendors Forum  (GO ATARIVEN) for
additional info.

NEW JAGUAR AREA IN ATARI 8-BIT FORUM

With   the  announcement  from  Sunnyvale  on  the  new  JAGUAR  Multimedia
Entertainment  System, we've  added a  Message Section  and Library  to the
ATARI8 Forum. We invite you  to join us in  sharing news and views of  what
promises to be an exciting machine. GO ATARI8 for Section 15 [Jaguar].

TWENTY QUESTIONS ABOUT THE FALCON ... ANSWERED BY ATARI CORP.

Download  file 20Q_01.TXT  from  LIBRARY 15  of the  Atari  Arts Forum  (GO
ATARIARTS)  for the first  20 QUESTIONS file of  questions submitted by the
members  to Atari Corp  and answered by  Bob Brodie, James  Grunke and Bill
Rehbock.

AGITATION PUZZLE GAME

Download  file  AGIT.ZIP  from  LIBRARY  2  of  the  Atari Arts  Forum  (GO
ATARIARTS) for Agitation.  Agitation is easy to learn, tough to solve. This
is the  most indescribably difficult, infuriatingly  impossible program you
could choose to run!

        * create custom puzzles
        * upload and share
        * point and click puzzle solving
        * multiple cheat, peek and help modes
        * watch the computer solve puzzles
        * custom graphics and dialogs
        * check out the other puzzles here online! mono freeware

B/STAT VERSION 2.46 NOW AVAILABLE

Download file BSTAT4.LZH from LIBRARY 5 of the Atari Productivity Forum (GO
ATARIPRO)  for version 2.46  of B/STAT.  B/STAT  is a shareware statistical
analysis  and business graphics program.  It requires a  1 megabyte machine
and double sided  drive at a minimum. B/STAT   makes use of GDOS  or SPEEDO
GDOS if  installed but requires neither. This is version 2.46 of B/STAT and
offers some improvements in  graphing over earlier versions. B/STAT  may be
registered online by GOing SWREG and selecting ID # 263.

OREGON RESEARCH JOINS ATARIVEN!

Message Section 12 and  Library 12 have been established for online support
of Oregon Research's products.  Please read OREGON.TXT in Library 12 of the
Atari Vendors Forum (GO ATARIVEN) for  an overview of the company. Also, be
sure to check out the  other files in the Library for  in-depth information
on their entire product line.

NEW SOFTLOGIK DEMO IN ATARIVEN
 
Download file  FLAGS.LZH from LIBRARY  11 of  the Atari  Vendors Forum  (GO
ATARIVEN) for  Sample EPS (Adobe Illustrator) files of the new Flags of the
World  clipart collection  now being  sold by  Soft-Logik Publishing.   The
archive contains four flags.
                                   
                              
                     THE PORTFOLIO FORUM ON COMPUSERVE
                           HAS BEEN DESIGNATED AN
                 OFFICIAL SUPPORT SITE BY ATARI CORPORATION

            "GO APORTFOLIO TO ACCESS THE ATARI PORTFOLIO FORUM"

        "ENJOY CIS'  ATARI FORUMS WHERE CENSORSHIP IS A DIRTY WORD!"

                             
                             
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
                              
                              
> From the Editor's Desk             "Saying it like it is!"
  """"""""""""""""""""""


     The Asheville Show is on for this weekend!  Be there or be square! 
<Grin>  Well it used to sound cool to say that.  Long... time ago.  Between
the floods, droughts and heat waves this is one crazzzzy summer.  Here in
Florida, the wacky weather has given rise to all kinds of speculation that
we'll be seeing a very interesting Hurricane Season.  Not the collegiate
kind either!  Hopefully, those in the flood area are doing ok, and all
their loved ones are safe and sound.
  
     Please, as we go into the twilight of the summer of 1993, continue to
play it safe.  At the beaches or wherever, don't drink and drive, use a
good sunscreen and enjoy yourselves to the max!
   
                                             Ralph.....


  """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""


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          Brian Converse      Oliver Steinmeier        Tim Holt
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> CPU STATUS REPORT                 LATE BREAKING INDUSTRY-WIDE NEWS 
  """""""""""""""""
  
                 
 
                 Computer Products Update - CPU Report
                 ------------------------   ----------
                Weekly Happenings in the Computer World
 
                               Issue #30
 
                            By: John Deegan
 
 
   COMMODORE, SMG SIGN OUTSOURCING AGREEMENT - Commodore Business Mach-
ines Inc. has signed an outsourcing agreement with The Service Manage-
ment Group Inc., of Columbia, Md.
 
   Under the deal, SMG will provide all post sale support to Commodore 
resellers, OEMs, VARs and end users. In addition, GMG will administer 
Commodore's U.S. warranty program.  SMG will also serve as the U.S. 
distributor for Commodore parts.
 
   Commodore products are currently covered by a one year, parts and 
labor warranty provided through authorized Commodore resellers and 
service centers.
 
 
   COMMODORE EXTENDS AMIGA 2000 POWER UP PROGRAM - Commodore Business 
Machines Inc. has announce it will extend its Amiga 2000 Power Up 
program by offering special savings to Amiga 2000 and 3000 owners on the 
purchase of an Amiga 4000.
 
   Promotional pricing for the Amiga 4000 040/120 is $2,349. The Amiga 
4000 030/120 will sell for $1,599. This is a savings of $1,350 and $800 
respectively. The offer is good through July 31.
  

   SEIKO-EPSON DEVELOPS CREDIT-CARD SIZED AT-COMPATIBLE BOARD - From 
Tokyo comes word Seiko-Epson Co. has developed an AT-compatible board as 
small as a credit card but with all the necessary features of an AT on 
the tiny board.
 
   The board, called Cardio386, includes the Intel 80386SL processor, 
input-output controller, VGA controller, 1MB memory and a Flash memory 
chip.
 
 
   NEC, TOSHIBA TO MAKE RISC CHIPS - Mass production of RISC (reduced 
instructions set computer) microprocessors is planned by NEC Corp. and 
Toshiba Corp. at a volume of 10,000 or more units per month within the 
year.  Reports say that the RISC chip performs better than the new-
generation microprocessor unit made by Intel Corp.
 
   The companies said the R4400 RISC microprocessor uses submicron 
wiring technology.
 
 
   TI SOFTWARE TO SPEED CHIP MAKING - Texas Instruments Inc. has deve-
loped software it says will speed U.S. semiconductor production and 
manufacturing and lessen U.S. reliance on foreign technologies. The new 
WORKS software already has set a three-day production cycle record for 
semiconductor manufacturing at TI.
 
   TI officials said the software allows manufacturers to control the 
wafer fab process in real time, allowing for increased manufacturing and 
production.
 
 
   IBM OFFERS NEW FAX MODEM CARDS - IBM will be selling two new fax/ 
modem cards and three infra-red wireless adapters, all based on the 
Personal Computer Memory Card Interface Association standard.

   The new fax modem cards, which will be available in August and Sep-
tember, are priced at $299 and $499.


   ROCKWELL ANNOUNCES FIRST V.FAST CLASS DATA/FAX - Rockwell Interna-
tional Corp. monday announced the world's highest-speed, smallest 
package-integrated data/fax modems which will support data rates from 
19.2 Kbps to 28.8 Kbps.

   This high-performance modem family -- V.Fast Class -- incorporates 
V.Fast technology including line probing and multi-dimensional trellis 
coding, allowing higher data rates and more reliable transmission. The 
V.FC family can transmit data at speeds 100 percent above V.32bis to 
meet PC market demands for highest-speed modem capabilities for 
internetworking and file transfer applications.

   Rockwell's V.FC family of products includes both data pumps and in-
tegrated modem solutions with associated controller firmware. The high-
speed products are based on Rockwell's technology and support V.32/ 
V.32bis standards for data and V.17 for fax. The data pump versions will 
be pin-for-pin compatible with Rockwell's current V.32 product offer-
ings, allowing for ease of design migration.
 
   APPLE'S NEWTON PASSES FINAL MILESTONE - Apple Computer Inc. announced 
this week its hand-held Newton personal digital assistant remains on 
schedule for sale in the United States this summer and some interna-
tional markets later this year.
 
   Newton passed its final milestone before volume manufacture. Apple 
has released Newton's "golden master," or final software program, to 
Sharp Corp. for the beginning of the product's manufacturing.
 
   Newton is expected to sell for less than $1,000 and will be formally 
unveiled at a news conference in Boston on Aug. 2.
 
   Newton will combine the capabilities of a fax, telephone and personal 
computer. Although it is not expected to generate more than $50 million 
in revenues in its first year, it is considered to be a key element in 
the company's strategy to diversify its product line beyond computers.
 

 
        ____________________________________________________________




> ONLINE WEEKLY STReport OnLine          The wires are a hummin'!
  """""""""""""""""""""""""""""
         
          
              
                            PEOPLE... ARE TALKING
                            =====================
             
              
On CompuServe
-------------
compiled by Joe Mirando
             73637,2262


Hidi ho friends and neighbors!  This week I saw something I feared that I'd
never see again:   A new, innovative, easy to use, program for the ST at an
affordable price.   This is a program  that no one should be  without.  The
guys (and girls) at Gribnif software  have again graced us with a wonderful
piece  of programming work.  Its called GENEVA, and what it does for the ST
is something that the folks at Atari said you couldn't do:  MultiTasking.

Why am I mentioning  this in my CompuServe column?   Well, since I've  been
using GENEVA (even though for only a few days), I've been so impressed with
the program, that I HAD to tell you about it somehow!

Well, enough of the accolades for Gribnif (for now).  Let's get to the real
focus of this column:  The great stuff to be found in the Atari Forums here
on CompuServe.  So let's get busy...


>From the Atari Productivity Forum
=================================


Sysop Keith Joins posts this file capture:

"[70374,2241]    Lib: 4
BCK143.ZIP/Bin  Bytes:  14080, Count:    1, 18-Jul-93

  Title   : Allows game compatibility on the Falcon
  Keywords: FALCON COMPATIBLE GAMES

  Backwards allows your Falcon to be more compatible with games that run on
  the ST"

David Hagood asks:

"Does anyone out there have a similar program for the TT (one that makes it
more compatible with many games)?"


No answer yet folks, but we'll keep you posted on any possibilities.
John Devlin asks about a product from one of the best companies ever to
support the ST line of computers:

"Does anyone where i can locate a device called DC Port, i was told that it
will allow my ST to have a further three serial posts, but i was also that
the device is no longer available.

If this is the case, does anyone know of any device that will allow me to
have further serial ports.."

The Big Cahoona himself, Master Sysop Ron Luks tells John:

"DC Port was from Double Click Software who is now "out of business." It
was the only device of its kind."

Editor Note:
------------
     There is a new DC Port available at the STR office.

Daniel Hopkins tells us about his current problem:

"Right now I'm having enormous problems with my UNLZH.PRG. Whenever I use
it, the program says Bad CRC No LZH header - and then when I try to run the
programs or read the file by clicking on them The computer says TOS error
#35.

I'm at a real loss as to how to UNLZH a program."

Boris Molodyi tells Dan:

"Most of the recent files in the Atari forums are compressed with new (lh5)
compression, that UNLZH.PRG can not understand. It does only lh1 archives.
You need to get a newer version of LZH program. I do not know the exact
filename, but ARCLZH.PRG includes latest versions of ARC and LZH archivers,
and also Charles F. Johnson's ARCSHELL which makes work with them much
easier. It is a self-extracting archive here in the libs (Utilities, I
think)."

Sysop Brad Hill tells Dan:

"The solution to your un-lzh'ing problems is simple.  Download the file
LHARC.TTP from library 4 in this forum.  There's also a shell for using
that program called ARCLZH.PRG, which is self-extracting.  You don't need
the shell; I don't use it."

Last week, Ron Luks asked someone (Tony Barker, I think) about hooking an
ST into a Novell network.  His post was:

"When you say "we have stuff here which allows us to put any ST onto our
Novell network..." is it proprietary in-house software or is it
commercially available?... Is it strictly for file sharing or could you
execute an Atari program that > may reside on a network file server HD?"


Christian Martens tells Ron:

"Excuse me for asking / answering your text...

If that "stuff" might be available commercially, that would be really
GREAT. We (in Germany) are also looking for a possibility to connect an
Atari ST/TT to some kind of 'standard'-network, and that is NOVELL 3.11. As
far as I know, there is an adaptor available from a german company (don't
know the name at the moment) but that is quite expensive. It will cost
about 1.000DM (app. 625$) and that's too much for any private user...

In our office, we are just installing a NOVELL network (connecting 50 PCs)
and what you describe "execute an Atari program that may reside on a
network file server" actually is "file sharing". That means, every
Intel-coded program you are accessing through a NOVELL network will be
loaded into your local machine and executed by your local processor.

     If there is an adaptor to ethernet and a software running on your (or
mine <g>) Atari doing the netware filesystem job, a requested M680x0 file
would be loaded into your (not again) local Atari and executed by the
Atari.

But - where is the cheap ethernet connector and the software needed? ;-))"

Christian then adds:

"in one of the current Atari magazines (we still have one ore two here :->)
I found a brief report, I'm trying to translate it for you: --- Comtex
Computersysteme is offering a network node for Atari models, that allows a
direct access to a standard Novell server. Installation is very easy: two
programs have to be placed in the Auto folder, plug the node into the DMA
port - that's it. After having starting these two programs you can login
into the Novell network immediately. This interface also allows it to have
only Atari clients within a Novell network. The price for the package,
containing hard and software, is 998DM.

Computex Computersysteme Gitteweg 3 79283 Bollschweil Germany --- taken
from TOS 7/93 p. 7 and also appearing in ST-Magazin 8/93 p. 6

Don't know, whether that is the same stuff, Pam is offering or not. If you
are interested, ask them.

There is a file package from the Technical University of Vienna/Austria,
called TUWTCPIP.LZH. I'm going to upload it tonight. It contains a wiring
diagram for the rom port adapter, software and documentation in english.
It's made for connecting an Atari to a TCP/IP network, they use it for
accessing a SUN with Atari terminals. All you have to buy is a pocket
ethernet adaptor made for the clones printer port. May be that's
interesting to you."

While Christian is available, Mike Mortilla takes the opportunity to ask:

"I heard that there is a program in Germany that allows access to "virtual
memory" -Do you know anything about that? I really don't know much else but
the subject came up when I asked if I could somehow combine my ST (4 megs)
with my Stacy (4 megs) to get a total of 8 megs running as 1 machine."

Christian tells Mike:

"As far as I know, yes, there is at least one program here giving
you access to virtual memory. If I remember right the one that survived is
called OUTSIDE and is using the space on your hard disk as virtual memory.

BUT: that works only on an Atari TT and maybe on a Falcon because
of the MMU within the 68030. That MMU does memory protection and enables
virtual memory. So, it's _not_ usable on a 68000 system, sorry."

Mike tells Christian:

"Thanks for the info Christian. I'm sure others who have TT's and Falcon's
may be interested."

Gottfried Baumeier asks:

"Who can explain the difference between the two types of ATARI 1040,
STF and STE ?"

Sysop Bill Aycock tells Gottfried:

"The 'F' series is older, and indicates an ST with an internal 'Floppy
drive.

The STE series is newer. It includes an internal floppy like the STF, but
also includes 'Enhanced hardware for more colors, better sound, hardware
scrolling, analog controller ports, RF converter, etc.

That's the basics - is that what you were looking for?"

Jonnie Santos tells Gottfried:

"The STF or STFm w3s the unit prior to the release of the STE.  The STE
offers blitter, more colors and RAM upgrades are easier (plug in SIMMS if I
remember correctly).  The TOS version of a STE is like 1.62 or higher.  I'm
using a 520 STE with 4 megs - I don't know what the difference is between a
1040 STE with the same amount of memory, if any."

Gottfried tells Bill and Jonnie:

"Thanks to Sysop*Bill Aycock and Jonnie Santos for their explanations. They
will do. Of special interest for me is the possibility of enlarging RAM
memory by plugging in SIMMS. I have just bought a second hand 1040 STE with
only 1 MB RAM for use in my garden place, additional to my MEGA STE in my
study, and would like to have more RAM."


Bill Waggener tells us:

"I have an early 1040ST and I am thinking about adding another Atari to my
collection of computers. Can someone suggest an article or articles which
compare the features and capabilities of the 1040ste, the megaST's, the TT
and the Falcon? While my primary choice would probably be a Falcon, there
are some good deals on the older products which appeal to me. I am
particularly interested in the following:

1)      Memory expansion
        Can memory be expanded without soldering, i.e. by adding SIMM's, if
so, in what increments and how easy is it do?

2)      DMA Port
        I currently have an external hard disk with a Supra adapter. Which,
if any of these machines are compatible with the 1040ST so that I might   
be able to use my existing hard disk.

3)      Compatibility of monitors
        Are these machines compatible with my 1040ST monitors ( I have both
color and monochrome) Any general opinions on these questions and the cost
effectiveness of the 1040ste vs the megaST's vs the Falcon vs the TT would
be appreciated."


Tony Barker tells Bill:

"You'll probably get a lot of answers that start like this...

It depends a lot on what you want to do with the machine, the TT is very
fast and can support high res monitors (1280x960) for DTP stuff etc. It has
a DMA as well as a SCSI port so your existing hard disk will plug right in.
You cant use existing RGB Atari monitors with it though, you need a
standard VGA or a 19inch job to do the high res mono. Memory expansion as
the machine comes is limited, but third party boards are available that
take SIMMS etc.  It also has or can have an internal hard drive. It has a
68030 running at 32Mhz.

The mega STE (not mega ST) is similar to the TT only scaled down, it too
can have an internal hard disk and also has a VME bus (I forgot to mention
that about the TT) and sports a 16Mhz 68000. It has a normal DMA port on
the back for connection of your existing hard disk or laser printers etc.
You can use your existing Atari monitors with it but it doesn't do any
extra resolutions as the TT does (mega STE 320x200x16, 640x200x4,640x400x2,
TT all those and 320x480x256, 640x480x16, 1280x960x2). I believe it also
has a blitter chip which the TT lacks, this speeds up some graphic
operations.

The STE is that scaled down again or more like the 1040ST scaled up a
little. 68000 running at 8Mhz, blitter, DMA ports and Digital audio by way
of stereo DAC's (all the above have the digital audio as well). Memory
expansion is easy as they take SIMMS (1 2 or 4 meg, and 2.5 with a little
fiddling).

The Falcon has all of the above (nearly) and much more, good graphics (many
resolutions and colors) great sound (16 bit audio) a DSP (Digital Signal
Processor) a 68030 running at 16Mhz, you can use your existing Atari
monitors, a TV, any VGA or Multisync. It has no DMA port so your existing
hard drive won't work without modification (if it has a DMA-SCSI adapter,
it's just a matter of removing it) because it has a standard SCSI-2
interface externally and an IDE interface internally. Great new operating
system. Memory is via an interface internally, either with a proprietary
(sp?) board from Atari or third party boards that take SIMMS (1,4 or 14
(16)meg).

That's a fairly brief run down on them but you need to know what you want
your computer to do before you can make a decision, the price performance
ratio is great on cheaper older machines but the newer machines have much
more potential and a lot of software coming out won't run on the older
machines thanks to the advent of the Falcon."


Albert Dayes of Atari Explorer Magazine asks:


"Has anyone noticed how much ram prices have gone up since the epoxy plant
in Japan blew up (taking out 50% of the supply)?  It seems to have gone
from $50 to $62 and most places have limits on the number you can have.

Since ram chips are just one part of the chip market I wonder how much
other chip prices will go up as well."

Isn't technology wonderful folks?


>From the Atari ST Arts Forum
============================

Barbara Curtis asks:

"I have an IBM computer with Dos 6.0.  Will I be able to run your program
called, KIDPUB.ARC.?  If so, How do I initially execute the program.  I
have downloaded the proper files, but do not know how to start it up."


Sysop Bill Aycock tells Barbara:


"Sorry, but you won't be able to run KidPublisher on your PC -- the program
was written to run on an Atari ST computer, which is not IBM compatible."

Rob Rassmussen asks Jim Ness:

"...what is "dithering"? Does it involve the resolution your screen
is displaying, the detail of the lines drawn, vector vs bit-mapped? In a
GIF displayer program I have, it lets me choose fine or course dithering,
but I was never clear on this."

Jim explains this to Rob Rassmussen quite nicely:

"Dithering is a way of representing greater resolution in a picture than
the monitor/printer can actually produce.

Often, it is represented via crosshatching or dot patterns, to represent
shades of color that can't be reproduced truly by the hardware.

When I mentioned my wife's H-P 550C color printer, I said that Word Perfect
would print to it faster if she chose a lower quality print mode. 
Basically, this means she prints in a lower resolution, or less
dots-per-inch.  The loss of detail is made up via the illusions of shading
created by dithering.

In another conversation here, someone mentioned that they can display
24-bit graphics on a 16-bit graphics card.  That means, millions of colors
on a card that can only truly display about 65000 colors.  Again, this is
done by software that uses dithering and similar techniques to emulate all
those extra shades.

There are specific mathematic formulas used in software, to surround a
pixel with pixels of other colors, to sort of fool the eye into seeing the
average color, rather than the true colors.  Each of these formulas, or
methods, has a name.  Usually the name of the person who developed it. 
And, each method is best suited for a specific situation.  Some are very
fast, others are slow but of better quality, if you have the time to wait."


In a nice case of Deja Vu, Gottfried tells Rob:


"Fine, Rob, you saved me time and money, as I intended to ask the same
question about "dithering". The translation in my dictionary English/German
made no sense for this application with graphics.
Thank you, and Jim Ness too for his explanations !"

Rob tells Gottfried:

"Whenever I get an answer to a technical question, like about dithering, it
always makes me think of 10 more questions! It never ends. <g>"

Our own Dana Jacobson posts:

"The Atari United! information was given out Tuesday nite at the weekly CO
on Delphi.  After the announcement, there was a question and answer period.

One of the points brought out was the "failure" of the AUA.  First of all,
I don't see the AU! as a "revolution"!!  I also believe that there's been
plenty of time and experiences to learn from mistakes that may have been
made by the AUA.  I provided many of the comments and questions/answers to
Ralph, hopefully to be included in this week's issue of STReport.  I like
the idea, and plan to support it wherever I can.  It's still early, but I
think that such an organization is vital today; and I hope that it
succeeds!"

Mike Mortilla asks Dana:

"Do you know why the AU! application is requesting serial #s?"

Ralph Mariano tells Mike:

"Sure.....  Its an easy way to trace the machines.  Keep records. Check on
dealers. For insurance purposes.  An Optional Entry."


>From the Atari Vendors Forum
============================

Richard Fairchild tells us:

"[THis is] my first time in this forum. I am looking into buying a 540st,
and i know nothing about the atari computer. i would appreciate some info.
i now have a commodore. is the 540st a good system, is software easy to
come by, what should i expect to pay for a used system? any help will be
greatly appreciated."

Mike Mortilla tells Rich Fairchild:

"It depends on what you want to use it for. The 520 was a 1/2 meg machine
and some don't have disk drives internally!

A lot of software needs over 1 meg to run (some need more) and if you *CAN*
run a program, you might not have a lot of memory left to do any meaningful
work in it.

OTOH, a there are frequently STs and Mega ST's for sale. There was a system
in the Ataripro area about a week ago w/a 2 meg ST for $200 or $300. I'd
think that was a good deal. Also, if a 520 were upgraded, it might also be
a candidate.

So I guess, to answer your ???, we'd need to know what you want to do with
it.

I don't think you'll be disappointed in the Atari performance (even a
520). I don't know if the 520 ST has an internal drive or not. As far as
value, it depends on what else is coming with the system, condition,
software, etc.

For basic home stuff it would be great. Also for wordprocessing. Desk top
publishing and some MIDI stuff might need more memory, depending on the
program."

Sysop Bob Retelle jumps in and tells Rich:

"Check that box again, just to be sure...  the only model Atari made
that's close to that is the  520 ST...  (that's the one I have, in fact.. 
:)

The "520" part indicates that it has half a Meg of memory in it.. if it
actually says   520STFM  then it means it has a "F"loppy drive built in and
has an RF "M"odulator in it so you can hook it directly to a TV set.

A lot of the Shareware programs we have in the AtariArts and
AtariProductivity Forums here on CompuServe will run in the 1/2 Meg of RAM
that the 520 has, but programs are getting larger all the time, so you may
find that amount of memory to be limiting...  for example, you may be
limited as to how much data you could enter into a budgeting program ...

There ARE memory "upgrades" available, but most of them aren't very
reliable in the long run...   I had one "solderless" upgrade in my 520 that
gave me nothing but trouble.  I finally replaced it with one I had to
solder in place, and it's been OK ever since.  It gives my 520  2 and 1/2 l
Megs of RAM, which has been enough for everything I've wanted to do.

As for software, you may find yourself limited to finding programs on BBSs
and here on CompuServe, as commercial program development has all but
stopped for the ST  (much like the C64 market).  Finding a "local" dealer
that stocks programs for the ST can also be pretty difficult.

If you get a good deal, and can find the software you need, then you'll be
really happy with an ST.  It's a lot easier to use than a C64 (I've had
both..!) and the joy of using an 80 column display for spreadsheets and
other "practical" stuff like that is really great..!"


Meanwhile, in Gribnif-land, Rick Flashman tells us:

"The Geneva Beta release shipped on time last week, so those who ordered it
should be getting it this week.  I've already heard of people getting it on
both GEnie and CompuServe.

You can still order the beta, if interested.  We are shipping those orders
literally overnight."


Do you remember earlier in this column when we heard a bit about Double
Click Software (You didn't know that you were going to be quizzed on it,
did you)?  Well Christian Martens asks:


"I'm looking for the Shadow program. The doc file of QuickCIS says, that
it's a commercial program from Double Click. Unfortunately, I'm from
Germany and have never ever heard of this program on this side of the ocean
<g>.

Is their any dealer known to you, who sells this program in Europe? How
much do I have to pay for it?"


Mike Veederman tells Christian:

"I'm sorry, but Shadow is no longer a supported product...

Fact of the matter is, we only received about $2K from Antic in royalties,
with much more owed...

We no longer support the Atari market, and therefore, do not support
Shadow.

- mike vederman, Double Click Software, past/present/future"


>From the Atari Portfolio Forum
==============================


>From a previous conversation, Don Thomas of Atari tells Barry Childress:

"I agree that a lot of shareware is darn good... often better than
commercial. But even with the money explanation... if the software is THAT
good, then it shouldn't be that hard to find financing or a publisher. The
term "commercial quality" is still accepted to mean *better*, since it was
good enough to package and sell through retailers.

I'm not saying I don't agree with you. It's just easier for a hobbyist
programmer to upload ZIP'd files under the terms of shareware than it is to
commercialize the work. Users are at the mercy of the programmer's
interpretation of his (her) own work being commercial quality."

JF Davignon asks Don Thomas:

"Would you happen to have the keyboard layout for the french language
keyboard ? I type a lot in french and entering ASCII codes for the accents
or using replacement characters is a bit of a hassle.   I found out some of
the keys by trying different combinations but I am missing some.  A
character map for the french keyboard would come in quite handy."


Don tells:

I'm not certain what you mean by a character map, but it's the same as any
IBM clone. To enter any of the 255 printable characters in the editor, for
instance, simply:

 1- Set NUM LOCK (Hold LOCK key, then press ATARI key)

 2- Hold ALT key and type the ASCII value for the character
    to be displayed. Most PC reference books will have the
    chart for the codes. (32=Space) Make certain you type
    the numeric code on the red numeric keypad.

 3- Let go of the ALT key and the character appears within
    your text at the cursor position.

I keep a PC character/ASCII chart handy all the time just for this sort of
thing... works just like any other PC I have used."

JF tells Don:

"The Port keyboard can be set to have a QWERTY, an AZERTY or QWERTZ layout.
QWERTY is the standard layout used in North America, AZERTY is the more
efficient layout used in France and wich has accented characters right on
the keyboard (you do not need to type in the ASCII codes since they are on
the keyboard) and the QWERTZ is the german layout.  I thought you might
have  or would be able to get a character map for the Ports AZERTY layout. 
But I don't need one anymore, I mapped it myself.

Note of interest, the AZERTY layout was the first one developed when
typewriters were invented.  It was a very efficient layout. In fact its was
way to much efficient for the technology of the time.  Fast typists typed
to fast for the machines which would jam.  Instead of developing better
technology they designed a less efficient layout to slow down the typists,
thus was born QWERTY.  By the time they developed better technology,
everyone was using and were used to QWERTY.  That's why we are still using
a low efficiency keyboard layout."

Don tells JF:

"That's real interesting. Thanks for the info. I can't touch type either
way, so the keyboard layout has less impact on me than it does for others.
I always wondered, though, how the different layouts came to be adopted and
why."


Wolf-Theo Holl posts:

"Some of you might remember, that I've announced a Do-It-Yourself manual
about internal memory upgrade a few month's ago.

This manual has just been completed !

Right now there is only a german version, but a translated manual is soon
available.

What started as a personal project for some interested Do-It-Yourself fans
turned out to be rather complicated because of the Portfolio's hardware
design.

At the beginning the idea was to upload the entire manual free... But all
the testing and some drawbacks with all the electronic stuff that was
necessary to find out the _right_ information, resulted in a change of
heart.

The author therefore decided not just to upload the manual but to sell it
to all interested persons.

This manual does not only contain a detailed description of all necessary
steps and procedures to upgrade the memory to 320k or 512k, but gives also
instructions for a speed-up of the internal clock from 4.9MHZ to 6.5MHZ, a
description of an internal power-backup without any backup battery,
detailed instructions of how to use the parallel port as an I/O interface
(using PBASIC), and last but not least drawings and fotos of the most
important parts of the main board.

Having read the entire manual I can only say: *GREAT STUFF !* Most of the
instructions and tips are to be understood even by a beginner, but the
important parts and - of course - the electronic job should only be done by
a
skilled person with the right equipment !!

For all german users I'll upload a order form for the manual in the file
ORDER.GER.

As soon as the english version is available, I'll let you all know, but if
you've got further questions or just want to show your interest, feel free
to contact me."

Now THAT sounds interesting!


Well folks, that's about it for this week.  If you happen to make it to the
Blue Ridge AtariFest, stop by the STReport Table and say "Hello"!  If you
can't make it to the 'fest, look right here in STReport for the after-show
review.  Tune in again next week and listen to what they are saying when...


                             PEOPLE ARE TALKING

       _____________________________________________________________




> BLUE RIDGE ATARIFEST'93 STR SHOW NEWS    "The Summertime Atari Event!"
  """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""



 
                         1993 Blue Ridge ATARIFEST
                         """""""""""""""""""""""""



 
 FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION
 """"""""""""""""""""""""""

The Blue Ridge Atari Computer Enthusiasts (BRACE) and Computer Studio
invite you to participate in the Fourth Annual Blue Ridge AtariFest in
beautiful Asheville, North Carolina.  Show dates and times are:


                   Saturday July 24, 1993  10am - 6pm
                   Sunday   July 25, 1993  Noon - 5pm


Just as in previous years, we have arranged for FREE Booth space for Atari
developers!!  (We're only requesting the donation of a door prize).

We can promise both developers and show-goers an energetic and exciting
show with as enthusiastic a crowd of Atarians as you'll find anywhere, plus
the support of Computer Studio in the mall.

We're once again taking over the Courtyard Shop (mall) area at Westgate
Shopping Center for the show (location of Computer Studio), plus the use of
vacant store spaces for seminar sessions.  Seminar sessions will be 45
minutes in length, and developers are welcome to conduct a seminar on their
product line or approved topic of their choice (seminar sessions are
limited, so first come, first served).

This year's show dates also coincide with Asheville's annual Bele Chere
street festival, when downtown Asheville is closed to vehicular traffic and
becomes what must be one of the largest street fairs in the country. 
Westgate Shopping Center is one of the primary Park-and-Ride shuttle
centers for transporting people to and from downtown, and we've arranged to
have the shuttle service pick up at the front entrance of the mall and drop
off at the rear entrance, so everyone taking the service from Westgate WILL
walk through the AtariFest exhibition area sometime during the day.  This
will be a great opportunity to showcase Atari and Atari related software
and peripherals, and introduce them to people who aren't already Atari
owners.  Bringing in NEW blood is the key to the growth of this platform,
and this will be our opportunity to begin that process with a captive
audience.

Additional discussions of the show, as well as confirmations of your
participation, are welcome in GEnieMail and in the Blue Ridge
AtariFest topic 13 in Category 11 here on GEnie.

               HOPING TO HEAR FROM YOU SOON.
                         HAPPY ATARI COMPUTING.
                                   IT'S HAPPENING IN ASHEVILLE!


Where: Westgate Shopping Center - Asheville, N.C.

Take any major highway into Asheville (US 19-23, US 26 or I-40) to the
I-240 loop, then take the "Westgate/Hilton Inn Drive exit" into the
Westgate Shopping Center parking lot.

                            When: 24-25, July 1993
                          Time: 10:am to 6:pm SAT
                               12 Noon 'til 5pm SUN

Points of contact:

                  Come for a day or come for the weekend,
                      but do come and enjoy yourself.


Great Smokies Hilton Resort  Hilton Inn Drive        (704)254-3211
                 Toll-free reservation phone number 1-800-733-3211


Radisson                    One Thomas Wolf Plaza    (704)252-8211
                 Rate: $62.00 per room (1-4 people)


          ====== Additional Hotel / Motel Information ===========

Days Inn                       I-26 and Airport Road     (704)684-2281
                               I-40 Exit 55              (704)298-5140

Econo Lodge                    US 70 East, I-40 Exit 55  (704)298-5519

Holiday Inn                    275 Smoky Park Hwy        (704)667-4501
                   Toll-free reservation phone number    1-800-HOLIDAY

Red Roof Inn                   I-40 and US 19-23 Exit 44 (704)667-9803
                   Toll-free reservation phone number   1-800-843-7663

Budget Motel                    I-40 Exit 44 (Enka-Chandler)
                                  West Asheville Exit    (704)665-2100 
Best Western Asheville Central  22 Woodfin St            (704)253-1851

       ========= Local Bed & Breakfast lodging Information =========

Aberdeen Inn                64 Linden Ave                (704)254-9336
Albemarle Inn               86 Edgemont Road             (704)255-0027
Applewood Manor             62 Cumberland Circle         (704)254-2244
The Bridle Path Inn        Lockout Road                  (704)252-0035
Cairn Brae B & B           217 Patton Mountain Rd        (704)252-9219
Carolina B & B             177 Cumberland Ave            (704)254-3608
Cedar Crest Victorian Inn  674 Biltmore Ave              (704)252-1289
Corner Oak Manor            53 St. Dunstan               (704)253-3525
Cornerstone Inn            230 Pearson Dr                (704)253-5644
Flint Street Inn           100 & 116 Flint Street        (704)253-6723
The Lion and The Rose      276 Montford Ave              (704)255-7673
The Ray House B & B         83 Hillside St               (704)252-0106
Reed House                 119 Dodge St                  (704)274-1604
The Wright Inn             235 Pearson Drive             (704)251-0789]
                                                         (1-800-552-5724)

A more complete listing of Bed & Breakfasts can be obtained through the
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce.

Reservations should be made immediately, as July is the height of our
tourist season.


                ===========  CAMP GROUNDS ================

           (reservations are a must during this time of season):

Mount Pisgah:
     About 20 miles southwest of Asheville on the Blue Ridge Parkway at
mile post 408.6 (National Park Service). 690 acres. Elevation 5000'. One of
the nicest campgrounds in Western North Carolina. 67 tent sites, 70 RV
sites. For reservations: P.O.Box 749, Watnesville, N.C. 28786; phone (704)
235-9109. No showers. Groceries and restaurant. Nature program.  14 day
stay limit.

Lake Powhatan:
     4 miles south of Asheville on State road 191, 3.5 miles west on SR
806. 30 acres. 98 tent/rv sites. Reservation available thru Mistix
1-800-283-CAMP. Disposal station. No showers. Swimming; lifeguard; fishing;
nature trails; bicycles. 14-day stay limit.

     While in the area, you might want to consider a little sightseeing,
and include a visit to the Biltmore House here in Asheville (the largest
single family residence ever built in the U.S.--its a "castle"). A visit to
the Biltmore can be a full-day's activity as you will want to view the
house, visit the winery, and walk some of the grounds and gardens.

Hours:

          The House 9 am to 6pm         The Gardens 9am to 7pm
                         Conservatory 9am to 5:30pm 
          The Winery Monday-Saturday   11am to 7pm Sunday 1pm to 7pm

     Other areas of interest include; the Thomas Wolf home (adjacent to the
Raddison), the Blue Ridge Parkway and Folk Art Center. A drive up the Blue
ridge Parkway to enjoy the higher elevations and incredible views of our
mountains. Perhaps a hike up to Mount Pisgah and look back down to
Asheville(you can see Mt. Pisgah from most anywhere in Asheville).  A short
drive from Mt. Pisgah will take you to Sliding Rock (for those of you
travelling with kids who are still kids at heart), the Cradle of Forestry
(first forest school in the country), waterfalls, trout hatchery, etc. For
the adventurous, white water rafting  on the Natahala River near Bryson
City (approx one and a half hours from here).

     There's obviously loads more to see and do around Asheville (in
addition to the Blue Ridge AtariFest and a visit to Computer Studio :-). If
any of y'all would like maps and additional tourist info of the area I
might suggest contacting the Chamber of Commerce:

                    Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce
                            151 Haywood Street
                               P.O. Box 1010
                            Asheville, NC 28802
                      704-258-6111 FAX: (704)251-0926

The Blue Ridge Atari Computer Enthusiasts (BRACE) and Computer STudio
invite you to participate in the fourth annual Blue Ridge AtariFest on
Saturday, July 24 and Sunday July 25, 1993.  The show will take place in
the Courtyard Shop area of Westgate Shopping Center in Asheville, North
Carolina (Home of Computer STudio).  We are still signing up additional
exhibitors, but those who have already made a firm commitment to attend
include (Alphabetical Listing):

 
 Atari Corp/Applied Audio Marketing . Atari's Southeast Regional
                                      Representatives will be on hand
                                      to let you know what's going on
                                      in the Atari world, especially
                                      here in the Southeast U.S.

 Accusoft-ST ........................ PD/Shareware Software (Desktop
                                      Publishing Clip Art Libraries)

 Barefoot Software .................. Professional MIDI Software
                                      applications (SMPTETrack,
                                      EditTrack Platinum, GenEdit, EZ
                                      Score Plus, etc.)

 Binary Ink ......................... David St Martin will discuss his
                                      own desktop publishing business
                                      and conduct informative seminars
                                      on "Marketing Your DTP Skills"
                                      and "Newsletter Desktop
                                      Publishing".

 Codehead Technologies .............. Productivity software &
                                      enhancements (G+Plus, MultiDesk
                                      Deluxe, HotWire, CodeHead
                                      Utilities, Warp 9, Calligrapher,
                                      MaxiFile, Lookit & Popit, Avant
                                      Vector, MegaPaint, TOS Extension
                                      Card, etc.)

 Computer STudio .................... Visit a 'real' Atari Dealership
                                      in the mall (Atari computer
                                      systems, software and
                                      accessories)

 DMC Publishing ..................... Desktop Publishing System
                                      Solutions (Calamus/SL, PKS
                                      Write, Outline Art, Invision
                                      Elite, tms Cranach Studio, etc.)

 GEnieLamp/GEnie .................... Telecommunications and
                                      Electronic Publishing

 JV Enterprises ..................... Developers of low-cost
                                      license-ware software and games.

 Lexicor Software ................... Professional animation and
                                      rendering software (Prism Paint,
                                      Phoenix Render, Meridian, etc.)

 MagicSoft .......................... Entertainment Software (New
                                      products unveiling!)

 Missionware Software ............... (Flash II, lottODDS, Printer
                                      Initializer, etc.)

 STReport Online Magazine ........... Electronic Online Magazine
                                         

Showtimes are 10am - 6pm on Saturday, and noon-5pm on Sunday.  Seminar
sessions will be scheduled throughout the show.

Since this year's show coincides with Asheville's annual Bele Chere Street
Festival, we are not having a Saturday evening banquet, but are instead
encouraging guests to hop the shuttle bus at the front entrance of the mall
and spend Saturday evening downtown enjoying the outdoor festivities (live
entertainment, food booths of all types, dancing, etc.).

Advance registration is only $3; or $4 at the door.  Additional information
about the show and Asheville's Bele Chere festival will be mailed to all
who pre-register in advance.  Door prize winners will also be selected from
registered guests (you need not be present at the time of the drawing to
win).  Advance registration checks should made out to "COMPUTER STUDIO" and
mailed to:

            Computer STudio
            Westgate Shopping Center
            40 Westgate Parkway - Suite D
            Asheville, NC  28806

 For additional information, please contact either:

     Sheldon Winick                     Cliff Allen, Show Coord.
     GEnie:  S.WINICK                   GEnie:  C.ALLEN17
     Computer STudio                    Internet:  CALLEN@UNCA.EDU
     Westgate Shopping Center           phone:  (704) 258-3758
     40 Westgate Parkway - Suite D
     Asheville, NC  28806
     (704) 251-0201

   +-----------------------------------------------------------------+
   |                                                                 |
   |       BLUE RIDGE ATARIFEST '93 - GUEST REGISTRATION FORM        |
   |       """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""        |
   |                                                                 |
   |  Name:  ______________________________________________________  |
   |                                                                 |
   |                                                                 |
   |  Address:  ___________________________________________________  |
   |                                                                 |
   |                                                                 |
   |  City:  ______________________  ST: ______  ZIP: _____________  |
   |                                                                 |
   |                                                                 |
   |  Telephone:  (_______) _______________________________________  |
   |                                                                 |
   |                                                                 |
   |  Please enclose a separate registration form  for each person,  |
   |  and  return to us  at the  following address  along with your  |
   |  check in the amount of  $3.00 per person  ($4.00 at the show)  |
   |  made payable to "COMPUTER STUDIO":                             |
   |                                                                 |
   |        Computer STudio                                          |
   |        Westgate Shopping Center                                 |
   |        40 Westgate Parkway - Suite D                            |
   |        Asheville, NC  28806                                     |
   |                                                                 |
   |  Alternate Credit Card Payment Method:                          |
   |  """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""                          |
   |                                                                 |
   |  __ MasterCard   __ VISA   __ Discover    __ American Express   |
   |                                                                 |
   |                                                                 |
   |  Credit Card Number:  ________________________________________  |
   |                                                                 |
   |                                                                 |
   |  Expiration Date:  ___________________________________________  |
   |                                                                 |
   |                                                                 |
   |  Authorized Signature:  ______________________________________  |
   |                                                                 |
   +-----------------------------------------------------------------+
                                    


  ***********************************************************************

                             IMPORTANT NOTICE!
                             =================

     STReport International Online Magazine is available every  week in the
ST Advantage  on DELPHI.  STReport  readers are invited to  join DELPHI and
become a part of a friendly community of enthusiastic computer users there.


                           SIGNING UP WITH DELPHI
                           ======================

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                               JOIN -- DELPHI
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                         Try DELPHI for $1 an hour!

     For  a limited  time, you  can become  a trial  member of  DELPHI, and
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Then, just answer the questions and within a day or  two, you'll officially
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                 DELPHI- It's getting better all the time!



   ***********************************************************************



> Falcon RAM-GIZMO! STR InfoFile   a RAM expansion board for the Falcon030
  """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""


                          RAM GIZMO FOR FALCON030
                          =======================



PRESS RELEASE:                           chro_MAGIC Software Innovations
RAM GIZMO FOR FALCON030                  516 North Jackson
PIANISTICS 1.20 FOR ST/TT/FALCON030      Joplin, MO  64801
                                         United States
                                         phone  +1-417-623-7393
                                         Delphi: JIMCOLLINS
                                         GEnie: J.COLLINS22


------------------------ Introducing "RAM GIZMO" ------------------------

 chro_MAGIC  is proud to announce  the  immediate  availability  of  the
 giz_WORKS RAM Gizmo - a RAM expansion board for the Falcon030 that uses
 standard SIMM memory modules.   The board  plugs  into  the Falcon030's
 internal ram expansion socket (no soldering required)  and fits  neatly
 inside the case.   It allows the use  of 256k, 1 Meg, or 4 Meg SIMMs to
 achieve memory configurations of 1, 4, or 14 megabytes.

 Note: the RAM Gizmo requires the use of 80ns or faster simms.

----------------------------PIANISTICS  1.20-----------------------------

 chro_MAGIC Software Innovations announces  Pianistics 1.20, a GEM based
 piano instruction program for Atari ST/TT/Falcon computers.  Pianistics
 is a tool to aid  in the technical  mastery  of scales/chords and gives
 insight   into  jazz  improvisation,  chord  substitution   and   other
 applications  of  music theory as well as provide performance/dexterity
 drills.

 The new version is completely MultiTOS compatible and will work in most
 ST/TT/Falcon  screen  resolutions  and should work  with any 3rd  party
 graphics card that has a VDI driver.


  chro_MAGIC Software Innovations' product line currently consists of:

               __________________________________________
              |              |   Current   |    Retail   |
              | Product      |   Version   |    Price    |
              |--------------+-------------+-------------|
              | Guitaristics |    1.92     |    $69.00   |
              |--------------+-------------+-------------|
              | Pianistics   |    1.20     |    $79.00   |
              |--------------+-------------+-------------|
              | RAM Gizmo    |     n/a     |    $99.00   |
              '------------------------------------------'

  For more information please contact chro_MAGIC Software Innovations
  at the address below or via:

                          Delphi  JIMCOLLINS
                          GEnie   J.COLLINS22


                     chro_MAGIC Software Innovations
                           516 North  Jackson
                           Joplin,  MO  64801
                             United  States
                         phone  +1-417-623-7393

     _________________________________________________________________



> EO440 by AT&T STR InfoFile
  """"""""""""""""""""""""""


                          AT&T OFFERS PEN BASED
                          PERSONAL COMMUNICATOR



     Fulfilling the promise of some of its futuristic "You Will" 
advertising, AT&T now says, "You can!" by offering customers its new
handheld, pen-based personal communicator, which combines fax, electronic
mail, cellular phone and personal productivity applications.

     The AT&T EO 440 Personal Communicator is available beginning today in
52 select AT&T Phone Centers across the country.

     In the national television advertising campaign from AT&T, a device
similar to the EO 440 is used by a person originating a fax message from
the beach.  The EO 440 is the first in what AT&T and EO believe will be a
new generation of products that will change the way people interact,
providing messaging and information-handling capabilities that go far
beyond today's fax and electronic mail.

     "With the introduction of this product into Phone Centers,"  said Dave
Atkinson, vice president of the personal communications group of AT&T
Consumer Products, "we begin offering a new dimension of interactive
communications that will have as much impact on person-to-person
communications in the '90s as the telephone had in the early 1900s."

AT&T and EO are making the device available through Phone Centers as part
of an agreement announced earlier this month.  The agreement will allow EO
to use the AT&T brand on its personal communicators; give EO access to
AT&T's communications technology and services, and to its sales channels;
and make AT&T the majority stockholder in the Silicon Valley company.

"With AT&T's powerful sales channels, its reputation for quality and
service, and its tremendous brand recognition, we can bring the benefits of
personal communications to the broadest possible audience,"  said Alain
Rossmann, EO's president and chief executive officer.

AT&T selected 52 Phone Centers for initial rollout of the device based on
the market interest in high-technology and business products.  Customers
can call 800-222-3111 to get the location of the nearest Phone Center
carrying the product.  The company expects to introduce the 440 into its
over 300 other Phone Centers gradually throughout the rest of the year.

Prices for the EO 440 start at $1,999.  Phone Centers will offer a number
of configurations, including one equipped with 8 MB of RAM, a 20 MB hard
drive and an internal modem.  This version will be available through mid
August at the special introductory price of $3,299.99, when the everyday
selling price of $3,499.99 will go into effect.  The products come with a
one- year warranty from EO, Inc.

Standard features in all versions include a high-speed serial port and
cable, allowing exchange of data with any IBM- compatible personal
computer; a parallel port for connection to a printer or an optional 1.44
MB floppy drive; a communications port for optional cellular or wireless
modules; and a PCMCIA slot for future expansion. Additional product
information is available from EO's toll-free number: 800-458-0880.

  CONTACT:
AT&T, Parsippany 

                 Steve O'Donnell, 201/581-3904 (office)
                                   or
                           201 228-6707 (home)
                                   or
                  Kevin Compton, 408/452-3966 (office)
                                   or
                           408/355-3883 (home)


     ______________________________________________________________



> Calamus SL UPGRADE STR InfoFile
  """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""



                        CALAMUS SL UPGRADE ANNOUNCED
                        ============================


Press Release
July 14, 1993
Toronto, Ontario    
                                        
DMC Publishing  is pleased to  announce a  new upgrade to  Calamus SL.  The
overall  performance  of  Calamus SL  has  been  dramatically improved.  In
addition,  we are very  happy with the  significant features that  have now
been  activated  as well  as  the  new features  and  modules  that we  are
including.

      The new version of Calamus SL will include the following:

1.  An upgraded Text Module which now includes both an activated Anchor
    Frame function and an activated Leader Tab function that allows the
    use of any character as your assigned Leader Tab character. The
    module also includes an improved Spellchecker and separate Hyphenation
    dictionaries, improved Vertical Text Alignment and improved M-Space
    handling. New features include the ability to insert and search
    Comments, manual kerning, inserting text style and text ruler
    information.

2.  The new ROTATE.CXM module now gives us the ability to rotate Raster
    Graphics in any degree with or without anti-aliasing. This means that
    if you rotate a graphic that has straight lines, anti-aliasing will
    smoothen the settings and remove stepping.

3.  The new COL_CONV.CXM Color List Converter module generates a color
    list from graphics that have been imported from Outline Art and other
    sources. It can also generate a list from free colors designed within
    the existing document.

4.  The new COMPRESS.CXM is a compression module designed to save you
    storage space by compressing bitmap images within your document. Note:
    Calamus documents, CDK's, saved with compressed bitmap images using
    this module, will automatically uncompress those images when the
    document is reloaded into Calamus SL.

5.  The new CYMKSWAP.CXM module swaps color planes.

6.  The new LIN.CXM Linearity module allows you to set color values
    optimized for your particular printer. This module will be of special
    interest to those of you with an HP550C for example.

7.  The RASTGEN.CXM Raster Generator module has been upgraded to include
    the ability to set Raster caches.

8.  New drivers that will be enclosed with this upgrade for Calamus SL
    include: GEMIMG export, CVG export, a RAW import driver for bit
    planes, an improved TIFF driver, an improved TARGA driver, an RPS
    driver for Repro Studio and an improved GEM Metafile driver.

9.  Set Layout/Working Area has seen some major changes. The automatic
    generation of both registration marks and crop marks is now activated,
    as are color plane names, double-page overlap, user definable settings
    and master page printing.

10. The new selectable document option, added as the far right pull-down
    menu, now allows you to click on the document you wish to access from
    the displayed list of all documents present in memory.

There are  other new modules  expected shortly,  but we've  decided not  to
wait.  All of the above are ready in-house and available for shipping right
now.  Look  for a  further  press  release in  the  not  to distant  future
announcing the release of at least 4 new modules.

The cost for all of  the above, the latest and much improved  Calamus SL as
well  as all  of the  new modules: ROTATE.CXM,  COL_CONV.CXM, COMPRESS.CXM,
CYMKSWAP.CXM, LIN.CXM, the upgraded TEXT.CXM, the  upgraded RAS_GEN.CXM,the
upgraded  Set  Layout/Working Area,  the new  Select  Document and  the new
import/export  drivers, on  3  disks,  is US  $75.00  or  $95.00 CDN  which
includes shipping and insurance.

Prices and configurations are subject to change without notice.

 ORDERING
 ========

For  further  information or  to  order by  telephone  using  your VISA  or
Mastercard  please  call  DMC  Publishing  at  VOICE  416-479-1880  or  FAX
416-479-1882.

If you have a modem,  you may order by private email  using your Mastercard
or VISA at:

                    GEnie         email to: ISD or POTECHIN
                    COMPUSERVE    email to: 76004,2246
                    Delphi        email to: ISDMARKETING
                    Internet      email to: POTECHIN@GENIE.GEIS.COM

Payment may  also  be made  by  check or  money  order  and mailed  to  the
following address:

                           DMC Publishing, Inc.,
                         2800 John Street, Suite 10
                             Markham, Ontario,
                               Canada L3R 0E2

Please include your Calamus  serial number when placing any  order. Ontario
residents add 8% PST., Canadian residents add 7% GST..

Thank  you for  your interest  in our  Calamus products  and please  do not
hesitate to contact us if you require any further information.

                                        Sincerely, 
                                   Nathan Potechin DMC Publishing

              ________________________________________________




> NVN WANTS YOU! STR InfoFile       Another Network Supports Atari!
  """""""""""""""""""""""""""



                      NVN - THE NEW KID ON THE BLOCK!
                      ===============================



     The  Atari  computer platform  has support  on  yet another  top notch
telecommunications service!   National Videotex Network  (NVN) maintains an
area just for our favorite computers.  Type GO ATARI  Order an extended NVN
Membership of 6 or  12 months, pay for it in advance and receive a bonus in
connect time at no additional charge.

                    NVN lowers its connect time charges!
   $5/hour non-prime time (EST. 7pm - 9am weekdays and all day weekends)
                $8/hour prime time (EST 9am - 7pm weekdays)

Choose from two great subscription plans:

                             6-Month Membership
                             ==================

Pay  just $30  for a  6-month Membership  and receive  a usage  credit that
entitles you  to $15  of  connect-time in  the Premium    services of  your
choice.  Your total savings using this plan would be over $20!

                            12 Month Membership
                            ===================

Pay $50 for a  full year's Membership and get even  more free time on-line.
We'll give you a $25 usage credit to use in your  favorite premium services
or  try out  new ones.  You could  save as  much as  $45.  NVN   now offers
Electronic   Funds  Transfer (EFT).   For  a $2  per month  service charge,
customers may have  their NVN   online charges  automatically debited  from
their  personal checking accounts.  Please contact Client Services for this
new feature!

             For more information about either of these plans..
                 Please, give us a call at; 1-800-336-9096.

                    You can join NVN one of two ways...
              By voice phone 1-800-336-9096 (Client Services)
                     or via modem phone 1-800-336-9092.

                               NVN Highlights
                               --------------

1.   For the newcomers ....
2.   NEW (MODIFIED) REFERRAL PROGRAM LET'S YOU EARN $10 USAGE CREDITS!
3.   A library built *just* for business people
4.   Board Certified Psychiatrist heads up the new Substance Abuse Forum
5.   VETERANS: Please report to the Military Forum <GO MILITARY> for C&D.
6.   Step out into the Great Outdoors Forum <GO OUTDOORS> 
7.   We've got just the cure for your medical information needs 
8.   The Diabetes & Hypoglycemia Support Forum is now online.
9.   SOUND OFF!!! Take our Game Survey 
10.  Let's talk about Coins 
11.  Call all DISNEYphiles!  Join the gang!  <GO AMERICA>.
12.  Amiga Forum now available for Amiga and Desktop Video enthusiasts!
13.  NEW Email enhancements are on-line. Including personal mailing lists!

    ____________________________________________________________________



> 4-FILES EDITOR STR InfoFile  "Finally, an editor that does what it sez!"
  """""""""""""""""""""""""""



                            -------------------
                       =====   4 - F I L E S   =====
                            -------------------

         A FILE MANAGER, FILE DESCRIPTION EDITOR & "COMMAND CENTER"
         ----------------------------------------------------------


An overview of 4FILES follows, and additional information about the current
version (3.0) is at the end of this file.

4FILES -- A UNIQUE FILE MANAGER:
================================   

Efficient, accurate  file management  requires ready access  to information
about any file, especially  its purpose or contents.   Unfortunately, eight
or eleven character DOS file names are too short to meet this need, causing
you to interrupt the flow of your work to do awkward research about various
files.  No  more!  4FILES not only makes such research easy, but allows you
to save the information in a permanent note for each file.  If you use 4DOS
or NDOS (excellent replacements for COMMAND.COM), each note automatically
remains   associated with  its file whenever  the file is  copied, moved or
renamed.  4FILES may  be fully evaluated under COMMAND.COM,  although notes
then will not be transferred during these operations.

     The  ability to  create and edit  file notes  and to  have your system
automatically keep them with their files is the basis for a quantum leap in
file management efficiency.  This  ability is only a basis however,  and an
exceptional interface is needed to realize its full potential.  My goal has
been to design  4FILES to put all  of this potential  at your finger  tips,
with a nice complement of features, and keystroke commands that are easy to
learn and remember.  You will be the judge of my success, and  since 4FILES
is shareware  by an ASP member,  the fully functional  program is available
free for  your evaluation.  If  you like it,  a registration fee of  $30 is
required (includes  printed manual).    Shareware copies  are brandable  as
registered. 

    There are several essential elements for an efficient file manager:

1) easy inspection of the contents of a file

2) permanent recording of the information obtained

3) clear presentation of this information along with the filename and vital
   statistics of the file, in a sorted directory listing

4) good implementation of file management operations, including access to  
   third party utilities 

5) easy navigation both across drives & directories and within a directory.
   4FILES has been designed from its inception with these things as        
   priorities.


VERSION 3.0 DETAILS:
--------------------

** Capacity is 799 records (files & subdirectories) per directory.

** Runs under DOS or in its own window under Windows, OS/2 or DESQview.

** NAVIGATION
   ----------
     4FILES'  great  drive:directory  navigation  is  further  enhanced  by
ability to  call upon the  LCD, ACD  or NCD  directory changing  utilities.
After one  tap on the directory change  key, you can make  an instant drive
change.   A double-tap of  the directory change  key presents a  text input
field for specifying a  path, which may be a  path fragment if LCD,  ACD or
NCD are used.  A triple-tap on this key takes you instantly to the previous
drive:directory.

** UTILITY PORTS
   -------------
     There  are  eight  utility  ports,  logically  integrated  into  their
keyboard  commands, some  of  which  are  specialized  for  use  with  file
browsers, editors or archive utilities.

** OTHER EXECUTIONS
   ----------------
     ^E puts the current filename on  an editable command line. ^E^E blanks
this command line.  F9 or ^X instantly executes the current file if it is a
program  or  batch file  or if  it  is a  data file  with  an "executatable
extension".

** FILE MANAGEMENT
   ---------------
     All functions use  single mnemonic keys, sometimes augmented with CTRL
for action on  marked files.  Included are  directory creation and removal;
and file copy, move, rename,  delete and attribute changes.  The  file list
may be sorted on-the-fly or from the command line.

** ARCHIVE SUPPORT
   ---------------
     Single or marked files may be put into new or existing ZIP, ARJ or LHA
archives.  Three utility ports are dedicated for assignment to de-archiving
utilities.

** INTERNATIONAL
   -------------
     Fully  supports all  national  alphabets, keyboard  layouts, and  code
pages.

** Video & Mouse
   -------------
Dual  monitors are now properly supported.   Displays of over 80x25 are now
detected automatically  and supported.   A mouse can  be used, and  is well
supported.

** CONFIGURATION
   -------------
     A configuration menu  is built in,  and changes may  be saved or  used
session-only.

** COMMAND HISTORY
   ---------------
     Six history lists are maintained  for various input fields,  including
entries for path changes, filename and target directory for file management
operations, and  command lines sent to  a secondary DOS shell.   Also, when
used with  4DOS, ^H shells  to DOS  and displays the  4DOS command  history

pick-list.

     4FILES may be found as 4FILES.ZIP on CompuServe and generally on other
systems  as 4FILExxx.ZIP or 4FILESxx.ZIP.   Keywords for  searching for are
"4F", "4FILE", or  "4FILES" (on some systems only one  of these will work).
"4DOS", "DESCRIPTION", or "FILE MANAGER" will also often work.

           ______________________________________________________




> PHOTO SHOW! STR FOCUS!
  """"""""""""""""""""""

                                 PHOTO SHOW
                                 ==========
                               for the Falcon


     GREG KOPCHAK 70357,2312, a  member of CIS announced  his firm will  be
shipping the  first Photo  CD application  for the  Atari Falcon  series of
computers starting Monday, July 26.

     Photo Show  for  the Falcon  makes  use of  the  built in  true  color
graphics, built in  SCSI-2 port,  and built-in CD  quality sound  recording
and playback capabilities of the Atari Falcon.

     Graphics  can be  viewed  directly from  the  Kodak Photo  CD disc  or
scripted into custom  slide shows that allow you to  mix graphics and sound
into  a  multimedia  presentation.    Presentations  can  be  played  in  a
continuous loop.

     Three professional quality sound loops  are included with the  program
to  get  you  started.    Presentations  can  be  recorded  to VCR  without
additional cards. All you need is a RCA type cable. Shows can be  viewed on
RGB, VGA, or broadcast monitors with the outputs built into the basic Atari
Falcon.

     The export module included with Photo Show will allow the exporting of
true-color images in 24 bit TIF, 24 bit EPS, 24 bit RGB data, or 16 bit RGB
data.

     A  SCSI-2 MultiTOS  CD rom  driver is  included with  Photo Show.  The
driver can read both Photo CD's XA format and standard 9660 CD rom discs.

                       Photo Show retails for $35.00
                        Ask at your favorite dealer.

For more information;
                 write or call:

                             It's All Relative
                              2233 Keeven Lane
                            Florissant MO 63031.

                           Voice: (314) 831-9482
                              CIS: 70357,2312
                           GEnie / Delphi: GREG 

                     Randall Kopchak It's All Relative


   _____________________________________________________________________



> NEW BBS SOFTWARE STR Spotlight         FOR BOTH THE PC AND THE ST...
  """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""


                            RATSOFT BBS SOFTWARE
                                  FOR THE
                                  PC or ST


Salt Lake City, UT -  J&J Computers is proud  to announce they are now  the
official North  American marketer/distributor for RATSoft/ST  BBS Software.
Effective July 4th, 1993 all sales and marketing strategies are now managed
by them.

As an  official dealer and service  center for Atari Computer  Systems, J&J
Computers has supported the  Rocky Mountain Atari community for  over seven
years. By marketing RATSoft, they look forward to providing  support to the
entire Atari  Computer  community,  worldwide,  with    this  exciting  new
product.

J&J's  will be distributing version 2.0 of RATSoft/ST. Version 2.0 includes
many new features and enhancements not found in the previous versions. Such
enhancements include the new  FileTool module which provides automation  of
such  mundane  operations  like  BBS  Advertisements  being  stripped  from
uploads. Updates of Zip comments, and file compression conversion routines.

The  software  will come  with a  professionally  printed manual,  and will
include dozens of  helpful utilities  and programs in  addition to  RATSoft
itself. Current owners of RATSoft will receive the 2.0 upgrade at no charge
via the support BBS'.  

The new manuals will  also be available to existing owners for a small fee.
Owners of  RATSoft  will also  receive  a newsletter  which is  devoted  to
RATSoft BBS' and Telecommunications in general, at  three month intervals. 

Technical  support  and updates  to legitimate  users  will continue  to be
provided by the RATSoft/ST Support BBS  at (909) 989-3381 as well as a  new
support BBS at (801)  272-8370.  A UK  technical support BBS will  be added
shortly and others in Europe are being considered.

 * Effective as of July 4th, 1993, RATSoft is Exclusively Distributed By:

    J&J Computers
    250 East 6400 South
    Murray, UT. 84107
    USA
    (801)/265-0835 voice
    (801)/262-6035 facsimile
    (801)/272-8370 bbs

    GEnie: N.Baker4

 * The author can be reached at:

    GEnie: S.HUGHEY1

    R0dent Laboratories Software
    P.O. Box 391
    Alta Loma, CA. 91701
    USA

 * Official US and Canadian Support Sites:

    R0dent Laboratories Support BBS
    (909)/989-3381 (Southern California)
    24 hrs, USR Dual Standard

    Approaching Oblivion
    (801)/272-8370 (Salt Lake City, Utah)
    24 hrs, V.32bis, V.42

 * Official European Support Sites:

    System ST
    +44 (0)533 413443
    Currently 10pm-7am GMT, 9600

Below is a list of features found in the newest version of RATSoft/ST. This
is only a partial list  of features, so if  you have a specific concern  or
question please feel free to contact us at the numbers above.

 System Requirements:

   o Any Atari ST/TT/Falcon with at least 2 MEGs of RAM. 
     RATSoft is compatible with all upgraded ST's
   o Hard Disk Drive
   o Hayes Compatible Modem
   o All mono/color resolutions supported, resolution independent

 Optional:

   o Printer (for BBS logs, user log list, file lists, etc.)
   o Alternative Media (CD-ROM, floptical, etc.)

 Optimum System (not required, but for best results):

   o 4 megs of RAM (for mailers, online games, and extensive modules)
   o TOS 1.4 or above


                            Specifications/Features
                            """""""""""""""""""""""

   o Easy installation. Set-up includes a GEM-driven install utility, which
     will have your new BBS completely operational in only a matter of
     minutes. Modem-setup is as simple as selecting your modem from a list
     of the most popular modems. All needed folders are automatically
     created, and there is no need to modify confusing configuration files.

   o RATSoft works with ANY hayes compatible modem, and includes
     pre-configured settings for most of the popular modems in use today.

   o Supports hardware flow control (RTS/CTS) for port locking and maximum
     through-put with high speed modems.

   o GEM editors for configuration options and data files. Intelligently
     laid out makes modifying system options a snap. Interfaces with
     RATSoft's Integrated Help System for instant access to extensive
     help files (no more thumbing through the manual!)

   o Modular design meaning your system is not limited by memory capacity.
     New modules are released on a regular basis, and most modules are
     self-installing.

   o Uses a conference system, each which may contain it's own message
     bases and file sections. Easily separates computer types, adult
     sections, etc. Universal and local scan options are available.

   o A programmable menu system allowing you to create your own menu
     system. More than just assigning keys to a function, functions may
     be linked, stacked, and joined together giving you endless
     possibilities.

   o Up to 255 unique translations, with local ANSI emulation (up to 16
     colors on TT/Falcon). Any new translation can be easily added with
     a GEM editor, and translations such as IGS are no problem.

   o 500 external prompts, with the ability to use an unlimited number
     of prompt files.

   o Advanced script language modeled after easy-to-learn BASIC functions.
     Includes PROCEDUREs and FUNCTIONs, DO ... LOOP, REPEAT ...  UNTIL, 
     IF/THEN/ELSE/ENDIF, array variables, and complete access to user
     information. Examples of scripts included online black lists, caller
     ID blacklists, a Time Bank, logoff comments, online games manager,
     and much more... 

   o Over 200 variable tags for user and system information and translation
     independent color. A wealth of information can be easily placed on
     the screen anywhere with a simply variable tag in a text file,
     prompt, script, database, etc.

   o Trackable voting booths (polls), including options for mandatory
     voting, age limits, time limited polls, and results can easily be
     dumped to a text file.

   o A Callback Verifier (CBV). Supports local, long distance, and
     international dialing. Setup is as easy as identifying acceptable
     pre-fixes with a GEM editor.

   o Supports caller ID recognition, if available. Supports Supra, ZyXEL
     and others.

   o A full-screen, bi-directional chat mode with capture/dump features and
     word wrapping.

   o Up to 1,024 message bases and 1,024 file sections, each which may
     contain separate "section news" files, and extended descriptions.

   o Supports up to 256 different message formats through the use of
     message modules. Current modules include FIDO (Summer '93), with
     others planned. These "fit" directly into RATSoft, and do not
     give the user the "door" impression.

   o Message bases can be real-name only, all anonymous, or optionally
     anonymous. Messages are not "byte" limited, and can be anywhere
     from 1 to 32000 lines in length (may vary with message modules).

   o Message base spelling checker. Users can have their messages scanned
     for spelling mistakes with a simply command. 

   o A powerful line editor with quoting, import/export, a unique "back up
     line" feature, alternative line lengths, message macros, auto-messages
     ("form letters" BBS-style), all the normal editing commands, and
     much more.

   o A full screen editor in which the user may move freely around the
     screen using cursor keys, move, copy, and delete blocks of text,
     scroll through a parent message to quote from, and more.
     Provides a word processor-like approach to message entry.
     VT52/ANSI compatible.

   o Up to 50 files (sysop definable) can be attached to any message.
     F-mail made easier, file attaches a breeze.

   o "Canvas Mail" and e-mail to "ALL" supported.

   o "Smart-Filing" file system which allows the sysop to keep files
     in any folder scheme.

   o File*Tool[tm], the ultimate archive utility! Handles all archive
     formats, can convert archive types, compress un-compressed files,
     delete unwanted files from archives (BBS ads for example), add
     ZIP comments and BBS advertisements, extract descriptions from
     FILE_ID.DIZ or RATSoft .DSC files -- all automatically! For
     example, all LZH files on your system can be converted to ZIP's
     with a simply command. Want to un-ARC a file using ARC Shell?
     One command loads it up with the archive ready to go!

   o "Auto-Offline" feature useful for SyQuest or CD-ROM users.
     On-the-fly detection of existing files avoids sysops needing to
     update file lists when a new cartridge or disc is used.

   o Users may download description files with their downloads. RATSoft
     sysops can download a description file, add it to their BBS, and
     RATSoft will grab the description right from the description file.

   o Online archive support, including archive utilities and display text
     from within archive. Supports ARC, LZH, ZIP, LHA, ARJ, and ZOO.

   o "Smart*Batch" uploading. If a user fails to enter file descriptions
     for an upload, they are automatically prompted for them on their
     next call.

   o An upload que. All uploads are placed in this que, and the sysop
     may review each file and deny or accept the upload. Stops users
     from uploading unwanted files simply for download credits.

   o GIF and MOD detection; an off-line file list generator; full search
     capabilities; brief/full description scan options; Zmodem, Ymodem-G,
     Ymodem Batch, Fmodem Batch, Xmodem Standard/CRC/1k, and Jekyll
     (a bi-directional protocol) support included, and a free files
     schedular.

   o New-Scans are completely instant: determining the number of new msgs
     and file sections takes less than 1 second, regardless of the number
     of new messages or files, or the number of message bases and
     file sections.

   o MS-DOS-style DOS Shell (RAT-DOS), supporting errorlevel statements,
     GOTO labels, environment settings, a MOVE function, supports any
     size directories, and is capable of processing batch files for
     mailers.

   o A Schedular which executes events based on time. Events can be
     programs, modules, scripts, or batch files. Supports an un-limited
     number of entries, more intelligent approach to netmail maintenance,  
     automatic system backup, online game maintenance, etc.

   o Three database styles, from a G-files-style files database, to a
     free form database and programmable database.

   o Extensive online help system.

   o Integrated SysOp Help System. Having trouble or a question? Simply
     hit a mouse button and extensive help text with examples appears
     on your screen in a neat GEM window.

   o User options include expiration dates for pay systems; a mass mask
     applicator, InfoForms (questionnaires); a revolutionary masking
     system; guest accounts and visitors; hundreds of bit-masking options
     for file sections and message bases; and much, MUCH more.

   o Run any online game, whether it was designed for RATSoft, FoReM,
     ///Turbo, Express, or any other BBS program.

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

 That's  just the  "tip  of the  ice-berg."  RATSoft provides  un-heard  of
support,  frequent updates with exciting new features, and is fast becoming
the BBS of choice for all Atari sysops. In addition to the RATSoft package,
third party developers are constantly designing new programs for RATSoft.

 Ready to order? Here's how...

 RATSoft/ST BBS software  comes complete, ready to run on  2 disks, plus an
additional "helpful utilities"  disk packed with useful  programs and hints
for any SysOp. Even though RATSoft/ST BBS is extremely easy to setup and to
operate, the  package also includes  a professionally  printed manual  with
over 200 pages of reference  material that is useful both for  the beginner
and the experienced SysOp.

 The complete RATSoft/ST  BBS Software  package is only  $89.95!   Purchase
price includes one year of free technical support and updates. 

 For SysOps running  other BBS software packages,  we offer a   competitive
upgrade.  If you send in  your original disks from  the other  program, you
will receive RATSoft/ST for 20% off.

We also offer user groups a special  discounted rate for RATSoft for use on
club owned boards.

To order, call any of the support BBS' listed above and place an electronic
order for RATSoft over  the modem. You may also call, or  fax J&J Computers
at  the  address and/or  phone  numbers  listed at  the  beginning of  this
document.

We accept VISA, MasterCard,  and Discover. Utah residents please add 6.25%.
We offer free shipping  of RATSoft to anywhere in the contiguous 48  United
States. COD  orders  accepted for an additional $5.00 charge. J&J Computers
also  offers the  complete  line  of  Atari  (tm)  products  including  the
Falcon030, and a complete in-house service center.

If interested  in RATSoft/PC, the  IBM-compatible version, which  is slated
for  release in early 1994, please call  the R0dent Labs Support BBS at the
above listed number and leave E-Mail.


RATSoft ST  and RATSoft  PC are  products of R0dent  Labs Software  and are
Copyright (c)1993 R0dent Labs Software. This text file may be passed around
or  re-printed ONLY  in UN-MODIFIED  form, unless  given permission  by the
author.

       Feel free to post this file everywhere and anywhere you call!


     __________________________________________________________________



> What is a ZIP File? STR InfoFile
  """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""



                    GETTING STARTED to "KNOW THE ROPES"
                    ===================================


A ZIP file is one that's been created using the ZIP compression protocol,
developed by Philip Katz.  It's made up of one or more original files that
have been both compressed and combined into one file.  The result is a file
that's smaller and easier to manage.  These are often called 'archives'
since they're used to store data and programs.

Before being used, the files in an archive need to be returned to their
original state.  Sometimes, zipfiles will be 'self extracting', with an EXE
extension.  This means that the file already contains code to do the
extraction.  For those, all that's necessary is to run the file from the
DOS command line.  The components will be automatically extracted into the
same directory containing the archive.  While convenient, this adds some
overhead to the size of the file.  For that reason, it's more common to
find archives in plain ZIP format.

More often, an external UNZIP program is needed.  While there are other
programs available, I recommend that you obtain the original shareware
version of PKUNZIP.  This can be found on many Bulletin Board systems, as
well as on CompuServe.  PKWARE maintains a section in the PC Vendors C
Forum (GO PCVENC).  Their utilities can be found in LIbrary 11 (PKWARE) of
the forum.  As of this writing, the most current PKUNZIP can be found in
the file PK204G.EXE.  This is a self extracting archive containing PKZIP
(which creates ZIP files), as well as PKUNZIP and several auxiliary
utility programs.  PKUNZIP is the program used to unzip your files.

Remember this is shareware.  As with all shareware, if
you find the file useful, you should register it with the author.  If you
don't support Shareware, who will?

It's possible that you might already have an earlier version of PKUNZIP
(the most popular is v1.1), or a program that recognizes it for extracting
files.  It's important that you have the latest version.  Earlier versions
are *not* able to extract files created by PKZIP 2.04.  If you run PKUNZIP
on a ZIP file and get the message 'I don't know how to handle [filename]',
this is probably the problem.  A copy of v2.04 should fix it.

Once you have PK204G.EXE, make a backup copy on a floppy disk, and store
it in case you should need the original in the future.  Create a directory
on your hard drive named something like ZIP, and copy the EXE file to it.

Log into the directory and extract the files, by typing the file name to
run the program:

   CD \ZIP
   PK204G

You'll see a display as the various component files are extracted.  Be
ready, there are quite a few.  It's not necessary that you access all of
these, or even know what they all do for now.  The main files you'll be
using are PKZIP.EXE (which is used to create ZIP files) and PKUNZIP.EXE.
In addition there are voluminous documentation files.  Again, it's not
necessary to learn everything that's in here.  It is important that you
know where the docs are, are able to read them when you need to.  DON'T BE
INTIMIDATED.  While it looks horrendously complex, the basic functions are
actually very simple.  As you learn more about the program, you'll be able
to use the additional features to gain more flexibility.

[A DIGRESSION ON THE PATH]

A key concept in using a program like PKUNZIP efficiently is understanding
the DOS PATH.  If you already know about that, skip ahead.  If not...

When you issue a command from the DOS prompt, and it's not an internal
command, DOS will first look in the current directory to see if there's a
program by that name.  If it's not found, then it references the Path.
This is a list of subdirectories, normally established in AUTOEXEC.BAT.  It
serves as a roadmap for DOS, telling it in effect "If you can't find the
program, start looking here." When it does the search, DOS will look at the
files in every directory listed in the path, still looking for the program
whose name you typed in at the command line.  If it finds it, it runs it.
If it doesn't find it, it gives an error message and the command isn't
executed.

What that means is that for programs that you run frequently, if you put
them somewhere on the path then it's not necessary to switch to their
directories before running them.  This is a huge timesaver.  For more, see
DISK ORGANIZATION TIPS below.

[RUNNING PKUNZIP]

In the examples below, I'll assume that PKUNZIP is in a directory on your
path.  If it's not, then when you see something like:

   PKUNZIP ....

 Substitute the full pathname, so that DOS can find the program:

   C:\ZIP\PKUNZIP ....


or whatever name you use for the ZIP directory.  All set?  Let's see what
we can do.

First, just run the program with no parameters.

   PKUNZIP

You'll see a list of available options for the program.  Don't panic!  You
don't need to memorize all this.  But remember that the quick reference is
there, should you need to be reminded of something, and don't have the
manual handy.

If you get a 'bad command or filename' error from DOS, this probably
means that it couldn't find PKUNZIP.  Make sure that the program is on your
Path, you're in the directory where PKUNZIP is, or you've told DOS
where to find it.

Here's the basic structure of the command line (the brackets aren't typed
in ...  they're here for clarity.) Make sure that you leave a space between
the parameters, as shown in the examples.  The format is:

   PKUNZIP [options] [targetfile] [destination]

The options (all those letters you saw in the command summary) are used to
customize things, and there are a bunch of of them. For simple
Unzipping, you probably don't need to include any, so don't worry about 'em
just yet.

[Targetfile] refers to the ZIP file from which you're extracting files.
It isn't necessary to add the ZIP extension; that's assumed.  If the file
is in your current directory, just the name will do.  If it's not, then add
the full pathname so PKUNZIP can find it.  Lets say you've downloaded
NEATO.ZIP, and it's currently in your C:\DL directory.  First log into the
directory, then call PKUNZIP:

   CD \DL
   PKUNZIP NEATO

will extract all the files from NEATO.ZIP, and place them in the \DL
directory.  If you're not currently in the \DL directory, specify the full
pathname:

   PKUNZIP C:\DL\NEATO

 will do the trick.

That's great, but suppose you don't want the extracted files to go in your
Downloads directory.  Talk about making a mess in a hurry.  Better is to
use the [Destination] option to tell PKUNZIP where you want the files
written.  If no destination is specified, files are extracted to the
current directory.  Again, if in doubt, use a full pathname to be sure the
files end up where you want.  Building on the example above:

   CD \DL
   PKUNZIP NEATO C:\HOLD

looks just about the same, except now the files won't end up in the \DL
directory.  Instead they'll go to \HOLD, where they won't interfere,
overwrite, or otherwise confuse files that are already on the disk.

 If you want, you can specify pathnames for both target and destination:

   PKUNZIP C:\DL\NEATO C:\HOLD

will extract all the files in NEATO.ZIP, located in the C:\DL directory,
and place them in the C:\HOLD directory.  By using the full pathnames, it
doesn't matter which directory you're currently in.

And THAT'S IT!!  You have just learned all you need to do to get started
UnZipping files.  Take a minute and give yourself a pat on the back.  Now
that you know how it works, you can go in and start studying the manual.
The best way to learn about the various options is by hands on experience.
Go ahead and experiment.  You'll be amazed at how fast you become an
expert.
  
[DISK ORGANIZATION TIPS]

Once you start downloading files, you'll find that it's easy to become
inundated with files that are included in the download, but aren't
something you necessarily need to keep around.  Worse, the names are often
similar.  So if you're not careful it's easy to end up with multiple files
with enigmatic names like README.TXT, README.1ST, FILE_ID.DIZ, etc.  Also,
if you try a program out and decide you don't want to keep it, all the
extras make it a bit more difficult to erase it.  To make managing
downloaded archived files easier, here's a suggestion on how to set up your
hard disk.

- Set up 1 directory for often used utilities, and make sure it's on your
path.  Mine is named C:\TOOLS.  This cuts way down on the need to Change
Directories before running a utility.  In addition to PKUNZIP, you might
also have a directory manager, menu program, often used batch files ...
whatever.  Another thing I've done on my own disk is to keep program
documentation in a subdirectory below my TOOLS directory.  It helps reduce
clutter in the tools directory, since once I'm up and running with a
program, I don't need to see the docs every time I run a DIR on the
directory.

- Set up another directory dedicated only to holding downloaded files.
This, of course, doesn't need to be on your path.  Think of it as the
Lobby, where arriving files get a chance to stop and rest up after their
exhausting trip over the phone lines to your computer.  Many communications
programs allow you to set up a default download directory, so check your
documentation. 

- Set up a 3rd directory to serve as a Holding Area (mine is cleverly
named C:\HOLD).  This is where you tell PKUNZIP to write the files it
extracts.  Using a dedicated extract directory has several advantages.  If
you want to run a virus scan on the files, they're all here in one place.
You can look over the package, check any README.1ST files, instructions on
installation, and look over the docs.  Many times, you can also run the
program from here to get an idea of how it works, and if you like it.
(Sometimes programs will insist they be run from their own directory ...
this is where you'd want to check the docs or installation notes.)  For
convenience, I have this directory included in my PATH, even tho it's
contents change a lot.

Changing, of course, is what it's all about.  If I run NEATO.EXE and can
immediately see it's not what I'm looking for, I can delete the files right
then and there.  Otherwise, I go ahead and copy the files (not all of them!
It's doubtful I'll need FILE_ID.DIZ and README.1ST once I've got the
program working) to their permanent home.  Sometimes that'll be a special
directory, sometimes my TOOLS directory ...  wherever seems appropriate.
It's also a good habit to immediately make backup copies of the original
ZIP file from your DL directory, in case you should need to reinstall the
program again.  The one you don't have a copy of is always the one you
need, right?  When I've got everything copied, I then clean out \HOLD, and
it's ready for the next go.

As you work with downloaded files you'll probably come up with your own
ideas for how you want to handle things.  We all have different ways of
working.  But hopefully, this will give you a place to start.

If you have questions, or want to know more about the finer points, don't
hesitate to leave a message in the forum.  The Sysops and Forum members
will be glad to help you out.

Remember that the only 'Stupid Question' is the one that doesn't get
asked!  It's a cliche, but like a lot of cliches, it's also true.  Nobody
was born knowing everything about computers.  We all have to learn the same
way ...  by exploring and inquiring.  And that's where the real fun is.

                                        Enjoy!

                                         >>don



   ______________________________________________________________________


> ATARI UNITED! STR InfoFile                         An Overview......
  """"""""""""""""""""""""""



                     WHAT IS THIS ATARI UNITED! THING?
                     =================================


     When ATARI UNITED!   was first  announced in  an online conference  on
DELPHI,   some DELPHI members had questions,   which I'm sure others share,
about  the  intent,    focus and   reasoning   behind  ATARI UNITED!.     A
bit of  history about  the   development  of  this organization might  help
begin to answer those questions.

     ATARI   UNITED!   was born out  of the  suspicion that more  Atari TOS
computer  owners  exist than most in the  active  Atari  community realize.
 Patti and  I have both  had many experiences in  which  we  have come into
contact with owners who had  no idea that a thriving Atari  community still
existed.      We  have  both  been  responsible  for  bringing   ST  owners
'out-of-the-closet'  and renewing their use  of their  machines.   And,  of
course,  with every renewed  Atari owner comes some degree of  new spending
on equipment and/or software.

     ATARI   UNITED!   has been organized  with the intent of searching out
these isolated owners  on a nationwide scale,   with  the   hope that these
users will  expand the active userbase.   And as a result  will promote new
business for our loyal developers.  

     ATARI  UNITED! seeks  to  repair the  disintegration of  communication
between  users and   developers  in the  Atari market,  especially  because
of  the demise of many printed Atari-specific magazines that  all too often
are an owner's only link to the community.

     A  late   night conversation about  the dismal state   of  the   Atari
market    in the  US led  to  a discussion  about ways  that  it could   be
improved,   independent    of  direct  Atari    Corporation    involvement.
Obviously,  we  concluded   that  the  creation  of  a  nationwide database
containing   information  about    users,   dealers   and developers    was
the  first  step   in  rebuilding the lost  lines of communication.    This
has become the first  priority  of    our fledgling  organization.    While
it   is  being   compiled,  other projects  are and will be  developed,  so
that  our  database can be utilized to its full extent when more complete.

     Atari user  groups have always  been a valuable  means of keeping  the
Atari  community together,  and it  was obvious  that user groups  were the
best  place   to begin  compiling  information.    Bob  Brodie, Director of
Communication for Atari Corporation,  and former   User Group  Coordinator,
was  contacted,  provided an outline  of  our purpose  and plan of  action,
and asked for a list of  user  groups that could be used in the effort.  He
was happy  to provide us with  the necessary information, and  so, the work
began.

     The   name ATARI UNITED!   was chosen,  and  again,  Bob   Brodie  was
contacted.   Permission to  use Atari's name  was granted, so  long as  the
organization  was used to support Atari  products  and  their users.    As 
this was the very foundation of the   organization, an  informal  agreement
was quickly reached,    and ATARI  UNITED!   became   our   official name. 
It   was  further  determined  that   AU!    should   be  a  not-for-profit
organization,  similar to the general form  that  Atari  user  groups  have
taken over the years.     ATARI UNITED!   does  not   exist  to bilk  Atari
users out  of their  money.   Actually,  we'd prefer  that  their money  be
invested in hardware and
software,  so our loyal developers can make  a living.   We intend to  make
all  ATARI  UNITED!  services  and  projects  as  affordable  as  possible.
Registration is free  of course,  and many of the  other benefits  we  will
be able to provide will be free of cost to  the user also.

     ATARI   UNITED!'s first project  beyond the  database is a   quarterly
DiskMagazine.   It  will  be  geared to   provide  developer  news, product
reviews,  game  hints,  help  columns,  and  a few surprises.   Eventually,
program demos might be included, so a taste of what is up  and  coming  can
be given as wide   an  audience  as  possible.   While  similar  things are
now available in the online  magazines, it   is   important to realize that
most of   the   Atari  community  members are   not 'modemized',   and that
many TOS computer  owners have  no  real link with the  rest of the market.
So, it is not  so much a matter of  duplicating what already exists,   as a
matter   of  distribution    where   that  kind  of information    is    so
desperately needed.  Kinda like being modern technological missionaries!

     The  potential   for  ATARI  UNITED!    is   enormous, for  both   the
developers  and the  owners of  TOS computers.     With better  channels of
communication,   developers will be able to sell more products, encouraging
them  to   continue  investing in  the TOS  market.   We,  as users,   will
continue  to be able to purchase new   products,  and find support for  the
old.

     One  particular benefit for user groups will  grow as the  database of
TOS    computer owners  grows.    User  groups who   register   with  ATARI
UNITED!   will have their  contact information made   available to   anyone
who inquires  about TOS support in   their  area.    User  groups will also
periodically be given access to information about local  users contacted by
us.    Just as the  developer and the user  can be  connected,   so too can
user  groups and  users.     It's all  a  part   of     strengthening   the
communication  channels  throughout the  entire  market.

     In  addition  to communication between  groups and   owners,  we   can
also  help on  the individual  level.   When an  owner has  a problem  with
his/her system,   or with a  piece of software,   it  is   often helpful to
contact someone nearby with the knowledge to solve  the problem.   Even  if
a user doesn't have a 'problem'  per   se,  the exchange of information and
ideas can only benefit the  community.  Some users are lucky enough to have
a local  dealer,  but for  many, 'local'  is  a term that  can mean several
hundred  miles.   All  of those in that predicament will be able to  locate
owners   nearby.  Just   consider  us   a  friendly   dating  service   for
your  Atari computer!

     Some of  our future  projects are  not far enough  along to  be openly
discussed,  but  there are some  exciting possibilities out  there.  It  is
important  that we don't take on   too much too quickly, only to find  that
we  can't handle  our   first priorities.     Too often  a well-intentioned
enterprise fails while  trying to do too  much  all  at once.  Instead,  we
want to grow  slowly with the aid  and support of everyone involved  in the
Atari community.   With this in  mind, the number of staff at ATARI UNITED!
is  being  kept very  small.    We have  received  many  offers from  users
volunteering to help with our project,   and we are  encouraged by all  the
offers.   But in these  early stages,  it is  essential that  our focus  be
maintained.   Too many people   with  too many  ideas  would  only serve to
dilute our efforts at this point.  However, as  we grow,  we will be adding
to our little group, to better serve the Atari community.

     ATARI UNITED!   intends to succeed  in its effort  to strengthen   the
Atari   community.    Time and money  have already been   expended  to that
end,   and  we  are  fully ready  to  expend more.    But,  it'll take  the
cooperation  and support of TOS computer owners   all across the US to make
ATARI UNITED! the  best it can be.  To help us help all of  you,   register
now,    while  you  are  thinking   about   it!  Together, we will make the
Atari community stronger!

                                Gordie Meyer
                               ATARI UNITED!


To register:
Complete the registration form below, and send to:


                                  ATARI UNITED!
                                  P.O. Box 691
                          Mountain View, CA  94042-0691


                                or via e-mail to:

                              abarbiero@delphi.com


     Name (Last, First, MI):  _________________________________________
     Mailing Address:         _________________________________________
                              _________________________________________
     City, State, Zip:        _________________________________________

     Computer Model:          ___ 520 ST     ___ 520 STe    ___ TT
                              ___ 1040 ST    ___ 1040 STe   ___ F030
                              ___ Mega ST    ___ Mega STe
                                      

     Computer Serial Number: (OPTIONAL)________________________________

     User Group (if a member):_________________________________________


             =======For further information, contact:=======


         Patti Barbiero                               Gordie Meyer
         P.O. Box 691                                 P.O. Box 1982
     Mountain View, CA 94042-0691       or        Ames, IA  50010-1982
        (415) 903-9787                               (515) 232-1627
     abarbiero@delphi.com                         biblinski@delphi.com


     __________________________________________________________________



> Lazarus Long #3 STR Feature
  """""""""""""""""""""""""""


                     The Notebooks of Lazarus Long 
                                Issue #3

Compiled by Lloyd E. Pulley, Sr.
 
Various real-life sayings (some attributed, some not) that could fit in-
to the Notebooks of Lazarus Long.  From the Jerry Pournelle RT on Genie

     The only thing more dangerous than a lieutenant is a lieutenant 
     with a map, compass and sidearm.
 
     That's only number two, and doesn't even come close to number 1: A 
     lieutenant with an idea and a word processor.
 
     Only field grades are dangerous with an idea and a word processor. 
     . . no one takes lieutenants seriously when it comes to policy.
 
     Field grades never have an idea.

     Of course they do, they steal them from lieutenants.
 
     When I was a lieutenant, I thought captains, majors, lieutenant 
     colonels, and colonels were self centered, shallow, and careerists. 
     Now I _know_ lieutenants are immature idealists; captains are 
     immature cynics; lieutenant colonels are self centered careerists; 
     and colonels don't care, 'cuz they got theirs.

     Majors? We're either world-weary skeptics or syncophantic self 
     centered careerists. Except, of course, for me... _I_ know what the 
     answer is - but no one ever asks!
      
     "To err is human. To really screw up requires ADP support and Flag 
     Officer guidance."

     "Stupidity is a self-correcting problem."

     There are a few things more dangerous thana a lieutenant with a 
     map:
       A manager with an idea.
       A programmer with a soldering iron.
       An engineer with a compiler!



  """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
                                    
                    :HOW TO GET YOUR OWN GENIE ACCOUNT:
                     _________________________________

      Set your communications software to Half Duplex (or Local Echo)
                      Call: (with modem) 800-638-8369.
               Upon connection type HHH (RETURN after that).
                          Wait for the U#= prompt.

                  Type: XTX99587,CPUREPT then, hit RETURN.

          GEnie Information copyright (C) 1991 by General Electric
            Information Services/GEnie, reprinted by permission
                                                        
                                                         
   """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""



> STReport CONFIDENTIAL    "Rumors Tidbits Predictions Observations Tips"
  """""""""""""""""""""



- Tigard, OR           OREGON RESEARCH ANNOUNCES SUPPORT OF AMIGA COMPUTERS
  ----------

     Oregon Research,  a major  developer/distributor of Atari  ST software
for the last seven years, has just signed a long term agreement with HiSoft
and AVR to  provide distribution and product support for  their entire line
of  Amiga products. We have partnered with  HiSoft for several years now in
distribution  and support in the Atari market (they distribute our software
in  England   and  we  distribute  and  support  their  software  in  North
America),  and this  is  the  logical  extension  of our excellent business
relationship.  Initially,  we  will  be providing  distribution and product
support for:

Devpac 3          Professional 680x0 Assembly Language Development System
HighSpeed Pascal  Professional Pascal Language Development System
HighSpeed Pascal  Professional Pascal Language Development System
PowerBasic        Entry level Structured BASIC
HiSoft Basic 2    Professional BASIC Language Development System (9/93)
ProFlight         Tornado Fighter Flight Simulator
Clarity 16        Professional 16 bit stereo sound sampler, effects
                  processor and sound editor
AMAS 2            8 bit stereo sound sampler with integrated MIDI interface
                  and sound processing/sequencing
MegaLoSound       8 bit stereo sound sampler and effects processor with
                  direct to hard disk recording
ProMidi           Amiga MIDI interface with MIDI cables
VideoMaster       Real time Video Digitizer

In  addition,  we are  developing two  new  exciting Amiga  applications at
Oregon Research  for release in  early 1994.   The decision to  support the
Amiga platform  is one we have  wanted to make for  a long time  and we are
very excited with  the capabilities of the machine and  for the opportunity
to serve the Amiga community.

If anyone has any questions regarding any of our Amiga  products we provide
free  online  technical support  here  as  well as  on  Genie:  ORA and  on
CompuServe:  71333,2655 or you can  call us at (503) 620-4919 or FAX  us at
(503) 624-2940
                                                                  
Bob Luneski, President          
                             
       Oregon Research          boblu@tekgen.bv.tek.com   Genie: ORA
       16200 S.W. Pacific Hwy., Suite 162      CompuServe 71333,2655
       Tigard, OR 97224   Phone: (503) 620-4919  FAX: (503) 624-2940



- London, UK                           FALCON SALES OUTLOOK
  ----------

     Our super sleuth in the UK  tells us that the Falcon sales are  in the
low thousands for all of  Europe.  The expected  crushing rush for the  new
Falcon has yet to materialize.  In fact, while the Falcon is satisfying the
game machine  affectionados in the  UK and  elsewhere, a number  of support
enterprises are on the verge of closure on the continent.


- Rockford IL                         ICD HAS IN HOUSE SALE!
  -----------

  The Link............. regularly $119.95 ......... on sale $109.95
  Tape Backup Software (includes tape cleaning kit).........  99.95
  Cleanup ST!.......... regularly $ 29.95 ......... clearance 19.95
  AdSpeed ST........... regularly $209.95 ......... clearance 99.95
  Personal Pascal...... regularly $ 59.95 ......... clearance 19.95
                                         free with orders over $150
  AdSCSI Plus ST....... regularly $119.95 ......... on sale $109.95
  AdSCSI Micro ST...... regularly $ 89.95 ......... clearance 39.95




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                     STReport's "EDITORIAL CARTOON"
                     """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""

> A "Quotable Quote"             "All that glitters ain't GOLD!"
  """""""""""""""""


               "TIME WILL BRING TO LIGHT WHATEVER IS HIDDEN;
                    IT WILL COVERUP AND CONCEAL WHAT IS
                         NOW SHINING IN SPLENDOR!"
                                       
                                                        
                                                        
                                   ...... a wise old man          
                                      
                                      
   """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""


> DEALER CLASSIFIED LIST STR InfoFile        * Dealer Listings *
  """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""          ---------------



                         ABCO COMPUTER CONSULTANTS
                         =========================
                               P.O. Box 6672
                      Jacksonville, Florida 32221-6155
                                 Est. 1985
                               1-904-783-3319
                         FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER
                    IBM/MSDOS-PC-CLONES-MAC-AMIGA-ATARI
                      CUSTOM - MADE TO ORDER HARDWARE
                      SOFTWARE, SUPPLIES & INSTRUCTION
                                                        
           """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
                                                        
                              COMPUTER STUDIO
                              ===============
                          WESTGATE SHOPPING CENTER
                       40 Westgate Parkway - Suite D
                            Asheville, NC  28806
                               1-800-253-0201
                                Orders Only
                               1-704-251-0201
                                Information
                         FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER
                          Authorized Atari Dealer
                                                        
           """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
                                                        
                           EAST HARTFORD COMPUTER
                           ======================
                              202 Roberts St.
                          East Hartford CT.  06108
                               1-203-528-4448
                         FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER
                          Authorized Atari Dealer
                                                        
           """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
                                                        
                             MEGABYTE COMPUTERS
                             ==================
                                907 Mebourne
                              Hurst, TX 76053
                               1-817-589-2950
                         FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER
                          Authorized Atari Dealer
                                                        
           """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
                                                        
                             SAN JOSE COMPUTER
                             =================
                              1278 Alma Court
                            San Jose, CA.  95112
                               1-408-995-5080
                         FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER
                          Authorized Atari Dealer
                                                        
           """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
                                                        
                              CompuSeller West
                              ================
                            220-1/2 W. Main St.
                          St. Charles, IL., 60174
                             Ph. (708) 513-5220
                         FULL LINE COMPUTER DEALER
                          Authorized Atari Dealer
                                                        
           """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
                                                        
            (DEALERS; to be listed here, please drop us a line.)

"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
                   STReport International Online Magazine
                      -* [S]ilicon [T]imes [R]eport *-
                AVAILABLE ON OVER 20,000 PRIVATE BBS SYSTEMS
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
STR Online!          "YOUR INDEPENDENT NEWS SOURCE"           July 23, 1993
Since 1987     copyright (c) 1987-93 All Rights Reserved            No.9.30
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Messages  quoted in  whole  or in  part  are  done so  under  the Fair  Use
provision of  the US Copyright Laws.   USPC Title 17.   Views, Opinions and
Articles Presented herein are not necessarily those of the editors/staff of
STReport International Online Magazine.   Permission to reprint articles is
hereby granted,  unless otherwise noted. Reprints must, without  exception,
include  the name of the publication, date,  issue number  and the author's
name. STR,  STReport and/or portions therein  may not be edited  in any way
without   prior  written    permission.  STR,  STReport,  at  the  time  of
publication, is believed reasonably accurate. STR,  STReport, its staff and
contributors are  not and   cannot be   held  responsible   for the use  or
misuse of information contained herein or the results obtained therefrom. 
"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""


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