Z*Net: 21-Jun-91 #9126

From: Bruce D. Nelson (aj434@cleveland.Freenet.Edu)
Date: 06/24/91-11:36:23 AM Z


From: aj434@cleveland.Freenet.Edu (Bruce D. Nelson)
Subject: Z*Net: 21-Jun-91 #9126
Date: Mon Jun 24 11:36:23 1991



        ==(((((((((( ==   Z*NET INTERNATIONAL ATARI ONLINE MAGAZINE
        =========(( ===   -----------------------------------------
        =======(( =====   June 21, 1991                Issue #91-26
        =====(( =======   -----------------------------------------
        ==(((((((((( ==      (c)1989-1990-1991, Z*Net Publishing

         Publisher/Editor - Ron Kovacs         Editor - John Nagy
               PC Newswire Editor/BBS SysOp - Mike Mezaros
         Z*Net Canada - Terry Schreiber     Z*Net NZ - Jon Clarke
         Z*Net Germany - Mike Schuetz       Columnist - Drew Kerr
                  Shareware/PD Reviewer - Ron Berinstein
         Contributors: Mike Brown, Dr. Paul Keith, Keith Macnutt
                  Research Assistant - Kathleen Johnston

                                 CONTENTS

         THE EDITORS DESK.............................Ron Kovacs
         Z*NET FEEDBACK - NEWSWIRE UPDATE.......................
         Z*NET NEWSWIRE.........................................
         THE PORTFOLIO PICAYUNE........................Drew Kerr
         Z*NET ATARIWATCH 1991 CALENDER UPDATE..................
         BBS EXPRESS UPDATE........................Press Release
         LYNX COLUMN...............................Clinton Smith
         Z*NET CONFERENCE BBS MEMBERS LISTING...................
         ST CARTRIDGE HOLDER...........................Ken Brick
         ZMAGAZINE ARCHIVES....................Kathleen Johnston
         Z*NET PC #10 CONTENTS..................................


 =======================================================================
                             THE EDITORS DESK
                             ----------------
                              by Ron Kovacs
 =======================================================================


 The staff is currently scheduling vacations, including myself and the
 next three weeks will obviously show.  There may also be an interruption
 in issues during the week of July 4, 1991, but we will let you know more
 next week.

 Terry Schreiber's Vancouver Atarifest took place last week and will be
 reported on next week.  Terry needed the time off to recover.  All in
 all, it was a decent show and we look forward to Terry's report next
 week.  Also, I want to thank Terry for passing out the Z*Net buttons at
 the show.

 If you cannot locate an AtariUser Magazine near you, anyone interested
 in more information should call (800) 333-3567 for ordering a
 subscription.  USA rate is $18.00 a year, Canadian rate is $22.00 (US)
 a year, UK is 17.50 (UK) a year, EEC is 20.00 (EEC) a year.

 Send your check or money order in US funds to:

                           Quill Publishing Co.
                          113 W. College Street
                      Covina, California 91723-2008

 UK and EEC Subscribers should contact:

                            Bath Publications
                             43 Midford Road
                          Bath, BA2 5RW England
                          Voice: 44-0-225-836182
                           Fax: 44-0-224-840600
(cut here)
                        ATARIUSER SUBSCRIBER FORM

 NAME:________________________________________________________________

 STREET ADDRESS:______________________________________________________

 CITY:____________________________ STATE___________ ZIP:______________

 COUNTRY:_________________________ PHONE:_____________________________

 CHECK NUMBER/MONEY ORDER AMOUNT:_____________________________________

             The July issue is near release!  Sign up today!




 =======================================================================
                     Z*NET FEEDBACK - NEWSWIRE UPDATE
                     --------------------------------
 =======================================================================


 From Atari Australia

 While it was nice to see Atari Australia's exposure in the latest Z-Net
 issue, regarding the Victorian Education Department, some of the
 information was incorrect.  Below you will find the press release that
 went out advising of our successful tendering.

                              Press Release

                          SYDNEY, 7th May 1991.

 The Victorian Ministry of Education have again appointed Atari Computers
 as an approved supplier to Victorian Schools.  After a detailed
 evaluation, the Victorian Ministry of Education have chosen to recommend
 the Atari STE, the Atari MEGA ST and the Atari TT computers as approved
 computers for purchase by Victorian schools.

 The criteria used within the evaluation process covered such issues as
 ease-of-use, manufactured quality, value for money, upgradeability,
 software support, reseller support and the ability of all the computers
 to work within a larger school network.

 Nigel Shepherd, Managing Director of Atari Computers, said "This
 decision by a highly qualified reference group confirms that our current
 range of computers offers outstanding value and suitability across the
 K-12 curriculum".  He noted that "The Ministry's decision to include the
 new Atari TT computer on their list confirms that schools recognise the
 benefits offered by a personal workstation in such areas as graphic
 design, CAD, Classroom Publishing, simulationand video applications".

 He went on to say "Combined with its ability to act as the central hub
 in a classroom network together with its industry standard architecture,
 the TT provides schools with an affordable platform that meets the
 majority of their computing requirements".

 The Atari 1040STe with a colour screen and 1 megabyte of memory has an
 educ ational price of $1,319 and $1,210 with a monochrome screen.  The
 Atari MEGA ST with a colour screen, 2 megabytes of memory and a 30 Mb
 hard disk has an educational price of $2,824.  The Atari TT with 4
 megabytes of memory, a VGA colour graphics screen and an internal 50
 meg hard disk has an educational price of $4220.

 For further information contact:
  Mr Alistair Campion
  Technical Director,
 Atari Computers
 277 Lane Cove Road
 North Ryde, NSW 2113
 Tel. (02) 805-0344
 Fax (02) 887-2231




 =======================================================================
                              Z*NET NEWSWIRE
                              --------------
 =======================================================================


 XCONTROL RELEASED
 Atari Corp has released on GEnie the new XCONTROL panel for the STe and
 TT.  The arced file contains full documentation and the CPX control
 files.  Get it now on GEnie, CompuServe and the Z*Net BBS.


 EDUCATION GRANTS ANNOUNCED
 Apple recently selected 19 learning projects in elementary and secondary
 schools across the US to participate in its Crossroads II Education
 Grants program.  Through the program, Apple provides computers,
 printers, modems, and other peripherals, funds for teacher training and
 curriculum development, and access to AppleLink.  Claris and Microsoft
 are donating software.  Grants are awarded to schools where economically
 disadvantaged students make up the majority of the student body.


 FIRST SCSI HOST ADAPTER ANNOUNCED
 Adaptec became the first company to announce a Small Computer Systems
 Interface (SCSI) host adapter to support Insite Peripherals' new high-
 capacity 21Mbyte Floptical drives, debuting next week.  Adaptec's AHA-
 1520 AT-to-SCSI host adapter, with Floptical drive support built into
 its BIOS, enables Floptical drives to be integrated seamlessly into AT-
 class microcomputers.  A working demonstration of the unit with an
 Insite Peripherals Floptical drive will be demonstrated June 25-27 at
 PC Expo, Booth 5555, Javits Center, New York.


 WORLDS FIRST GAS PLASMA DISPLAY
 Toshiba announced it would start selling four new models of its Dynabook
 32-bit notebook-size personal computers with gas plasma displays on the
 Japanese market from July 1.  They will be the world's first notebook-
 size computers with gas plasma dislays which respond to instructions
 faster than liquid crystal displays as well as offering a wider screen
 viewing angle and a higher contrast ratio.  The four models are priced
 between $2,843 and $3,557 with a 3.5-inch internal disk drive.


 DISTINCTIVE SOFTWARE UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT
 Electronic Arts announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire
 Distinctive Software Inc.  Electronic Arts will pay $782,900 and issue
 488,157 shares of new common stock in exchange for all the outstanding
 capital stock of DSI.  DSI will be operated as a wholly-owned
 subsidiary.  Tarrnie Williams, 50, will continue as president and chief
 executive officer of the new subsidiary.  Don Mattrick, 27, founder,
 chairman, and vice president of marketing and design for DSI, will
 become vice president of strategic planning for Electronic Arts.
 Distinctive Software has created over 40 titles and 90 SKU's for leading
 publishers including Electronic Arts, Broderbund, Konami, Walt Disney
 Computer Software, Mindscape and Accolade.  It has participated in the
 development of Test Drive and Hardball.  It has designed Evolution and
 The Duel: Test Drive II.  It has also developed Ace of Aces, Dambusters,
 Grand Prix Circuit, Hardball II, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.


 SMARTMODEM 10th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
 Hayes announced the Smartmodem Tenth Anniversary by kicking off a year-
 long celebration, beginning with the biggest cash rebate ever on Hayes
 modems in the United States and Canada.  From June 17 to Aug. 18, 1991,
 Hayes provides customers with a US$150 rebate on ULTRA 96 or V-series
 Smartmodem 9600; a US$100 rebate on Smartmodem 2400, Smartmodem 2400P,
 Smartmodem 1200, or Smartmodem 1200B; and a US$35 rebate on Smartcom
 Exec or Smartcom II for the Macintosh when purchased with one of these
 modems.  Hayes has set no volume limitations on individual or total unit
 rebates.  Customers may also obtain rebate coupons in metropolitan
 newspapers and major industry magazines as well as through Hayes
 electronic bulletin board system at 1-800-US-HAYES or 1-404-HI-MODEM.
 For more information, contact Hayes Sales Support at (404) 840-9200.





 =======================================================================
                          THE PORTFOLIO PICAYUNE
                          ----------------------
                            by Drew Reid Kerr
 =======================================================================
    GEnie D.KERR1                                       DELPHI DRKERR


 SEEN RECENTLY IN THE LOVELORN SECTION OF AN ATARI BB:

               SINGLE MALE PORTFOLIO, good memory,
               looking for a hot "female" connection
               to L.U.S.T. (Lovable Underrated ST).
               Must be good communicator... fast....

 Well, you've got that 128k baby and you want it to create beautiful
 music together with your ST.  No sweat.  Just follow the easy
 instructions and these two machines will be purring like lovebirds in
 Atari Heaven.

 1.  Buy the serial interface for the Portfolio.  This accessory not only
     provides ST communication, but modem accessibility as well.

 2.  You need this configuration of a cable: 9-pin female to 25-pin
     female.  There are two ways of getting this cable: buy a null modem
     cable with this configuration already or buy a null modem cable with
     a null modem cable adaptor to make the 25-pin male into a female.
     The advantage of the latter is that the adaptor can be removed so
     you can hook the male end into a modem, leaving you a lot of
     flexibility.  Check out your local Radio Shack or electronic store.

 3.  The right term programs for both the Portfolio and the ST.  For the
     former, you can get XTERM2, available on CompuServe and GEnie
     Portfolio SIG's or the DOS Utilities Card available from your Atari
     dealer.

 For the ST, there are a couple of PD programs avilable and they are
 tricky, to say the least.  No question about it, buy Transport by Donald
 Thomas from Artisan Software (P.O. Box 849, Manteca, CA 95336).  It goes
 for something like $25 and is worth every penny.  This program will make
 your file transfers a breeze!

 Now, it's simple.  Attach the serial interface, connect the cable, boot
 up Transport on the ST and XTERM2 on the Portfolio.  Let's say you are
 sending a file from the ST to the Portfolio.  On Transport, go to the
 Extended Options setting.  Press [U] for "upload" and the program will
 ask you  what kind of file you are sending (.EXE, .COM, .BAT, etc.).  A
 file selector comes up, you choose the file you want to send.  Transport
 is now in waiting mode, ready for your Portfolio to say, "C'mon over!"

 On your Portfolio, press [Function] 2 (capture) and it will ask you the
 name of the file.  Type in the exact name of the file you are sending.
 If you're not sure, look on your ST monitor -- it will be written on
 your screen.  Press Return.

 On your ST screen, Xmodem blocks will be sent to your Portfolio.  On
 your Portfolio, you'll see little dots, representing blocks, going
 across the screen.  When finished, it will say "Done!" Press [Function]
 1 to exit XTERM2.

 Now the new program will be siting in the directory in which XTERM2 is
 located, ready to be used.  Make sure you use "Check Disk" to assure
 there is enough space in your drive for the new program coming over.

 Once you transfer your first file, you'll be going hog-wild downloading
 new Portfolio programs.  Take my word, this is the way to do your
 Portfolio/ST Love Connection!

                                 *

 THE MEMORY CARD MOTEL

 At this time, memory cards come in three configurations: 32k, 64k, and
 128k.  If you are wise, you'll skip the 32k's and get a few of the
 others.  This is intelligent Portfolio-ing and here's why:

 Your Portfolio can only handle so many files.  If you've got a good-
 sized address book and diary, keep worksheets, keep XTERM 2 in your C
 directory, you'll have very little space left over.  Your flexibility
 lies in your RAM (memory) cards.

 Using FDISK, format your C drive to 8k (16k if you use alarms).  This
 will save the bulk of your memory for doing the hard work.  Put all your
 address, editor, diary and worksheet files on the RAM cards.  Do all
 your work from these cards.  This will give you plenty of space to work
 the Portfolio while have maximum memory power punch.

 This is especially true for XTERM2.  Put it on a 64k or 128k card, and
 you've got no space worries when tranferring programs in!

 BOOK'EM, DAN-O!

 The only book on the market devoted to the Portfolio is The Complete
 Guide To The Atari Portfolio (Abacus; paperback).  My advice is don't
 bother -- everything you need to know can be found in two places: the
 Portfolio manual (which is good) and the forums and libraries of
 CompuServe and GEnie.  From the latter, not only can you find plenty of
 help and discussion, but post a question and you'll get personalized
 help!

 MODEM, LARRY & CURLY

 Keeping the portability concept in mind, you may want to go on-line at
 a moment's notice with your Portfolio and Serial Interface.  There are
 two pocket modems recommended, both the size of cigarette lighters,
 powered by 9-volt batteries and useful up to 2400 baud.

 The first is the Practical Peripheral Pocket Modem, personally used by
 Atari's Bob Brodie himself.

 The second, recommended by Transport's Donald Thomas, is the World Port,
 manufactured by Touchbase Systems, Inc., 160 Laurel Avenue, Northport,
 NY 11768 (516-261-0423).

 I DIG SIG'S

 Portfolio support on-line comes down to two services, CompuServe and
 Genie.  If you own a Portfolio, the best thing you could do is support
 them -- they have terrific programs and help files, advice is there for
 the asking, and it shows Atari (and the world) you dig their 16bit
 portable thinking machine.  Here's a look at the two services:

 CompuServe

 Type in APORTFOLIO and you'll have your mind blown Portfolio-style.
 This is considered Atari's official forum for the unit.  It shows.
 There are an incredible amount of message forums but what will really do
 it is the Libraries.  Thousands of programs and help files ready for
 your downloading.

 Your first move should be to the New Uploads section to download the
 list of all Portfolio files in all the libraries.  Yes, it's a mother of
 a list to print out, but worth it.  Look through the utilities, games,
 applications and graphics program descriptions.  If you're curious about
 something, circle it and bring it on down!

 Programs have been coming in at a rather slow rate the last few months.
 You'll also notice that Portfolio files are either downloaded by a dozen
 people or hundreds.

 GEnie

 This SIG is in stall mode and really needs a good shot of support to
 help it.  As a matter of fact, the way this area is set up, it almost
 seems like second-class treatment.  There are literally only slightly
 over 100 files in the library.  Most of the files a very good, but scant
 compared to CompuServe.  The Portfolio newsletter needs updating and I
 can't recall the last Portfolio conference either.

 Part of the blame seems to be lack of a good Portfolio sysop.  The SIG
 needs pushing, cajoling, promotion and most of all, YOUR SUPPORT!!!  If
 you have good knowledge of the PT, send Atari sysop Darlah Pine e-mail
 and let her know you are interested in being a Portfolio SIG caretaker
 (her address is DARLAH).

 Also, if you have a Portfolio, download the files and put up some
 messages.  The files may be small in number, but the amount of downloads
 is impressively large.

 The best thing about the GEnie Portfolio SIG (M 950) is the Bulletin
 Board.  It's easy to handle and navigate.  Every topic is covered well
 and in a friendly demeanor.  You want to know about Portfolio
 programming?  Transferring files between a PT and a Mac?  Portfolio
 tricks?  This is one area you should not miss!

 GET YOUR HOT PROGRAMS!

 There's a battery of dedicated Portfolio programmers who are always
 uploading wonderful new programs to the SIG's.  As a matter of fact,
 they often get their ideas from user e-mail!  Look for fine work by
 folks such as B.J. Gleason, David Stewart, Jim Straus and Don Messerli.
 Here's a smattering of top stuff:

 DIAL.ARC: Dial program for XTERM2.
 GO.BAT: Batch file with multiple utilities like backup, sort, etc.
 BATCH.ARC: Uses a KeyFake program to automatically call a name, invoke
 the editor, search for name in address book, etc.
 BACKUP.BAT/DOC: Three backup programs.
 PRTRIS: Tetris for the Portfolio! Great!
 CASINO.COM: Blackjack... a big file so watch it!
 PORTFOLIO TOOL KIT 2.0: Utilities including -- disk and system info,
 system operation setter, tone generator (music!), document filter,
 function key reassignment, directory display and more!
 SKETCH: Drawing like the old Etch-A-Sketch!!
 BATTERY MONITOR: Displays the number of days since you installed the
 battery.

 Is the DOS Utilities RAM Card worth buying?  No doubt, it's convenient
 having XTERM2 ready for input.  But keep in mind that a good percentage
 of the programs are now available on-line.

 MY PORTFOLIO AND ME

 I've had my Portfolio for one month, so I'd like to share my uses with
 you, incase you're wondering if it's worth buying one or you're figuring
 out what to do with the thing.

 I run a one-man public relations firm in Manhattan, Four Corners
 Communications.  Portability, notes, appointments come to mind
 immediately when you are a small business and on the run.  I TAKE THE
 PORTFOLIO EVERYWHERE.  THAT'S WHAT IT IS FOR.

 When I'm at a client and I need to take quick notes of ideas, out comes
 the Text Editor (don't need a notebook).  I have various media events
 and calls to keep track of, so the Diary is my appointment guide.  What
 I have really made use of is the Address Book -- like an unlimited
 Rolodex with the world's longest cards, I can call up tv stations,
 writers, producers on the go without calling directory asssistance or
 searching my own faulty memory.

 I've transported some ST programs between by office computer and my home
 computer.  Instead of a floppy disk sitting around, easily susceptible
 to damage, it's hibernating in my Portfolio, ready to get vacuumed out
 to my STE!

 THE CRYSTAL BALL

 One great development in the works is the converting of popular text
 adventure games to the Portfolio.  Supposedly, the classic Infocom games
 like "Leather Goddesses of Phobos" and "Wishbringer" are likely
 candidates (easy to do and financially prudent) or original games.  Keep
 an eye open for these work distractors!

 FACT: As of January 1991, 250,000 Portfolios had been sold worldwide!

                                ****

 Drew Kerr publishes "Four Corners," an on-line public relations
 newsletter for small business and pr professionals.  It can be
 downloaded from CompuServe (PRSIG, WORK, USEN), GEnie (HOSB) or Delphi
 (Business Forum).




 =======================================================================
                      Z*NET ATARIWATCH 1991 CALENDAR
                      ------------------------------
 =======================================================================


 CANCELLED !!!! June 29-30 CANCELLED!!!!
 The Great Lakes Atari Computer Users Conference at the Mercyhurst
 College Campus Center (501 East 38th St.) in Erie, Pennsylvania.
 CANCELLED!!!! GLACUC, call Patty Marshall at 412-225-8637


 July 20
 Blue Ridge AtariFest, Noon to whenever, Saturday July 20, Westgate
 Shopping Center, Asheville, North Carolina, at I-240 and US 19-23.
 Contact B.R.A.C.E., Van Estes, 704-685-8358

 July 27
 MIST AtariFest III in Indianapolis, Indiana on Saturday, July 27th,
 sponsored jointly by the user groups at Indianapolis and Bloomington
 known as MIST (Mid-Indiana ST).  Held at CADRE, Inc., 6385 Castleplace
 Drive, Indianapolis, IN.  Bill Loring, 812-336-8103.

 August 8-11
 GEN CON, the world's largest Game Convention (12,000+), at MECCA in
 Milwaukee Wisconsin.  MilAtari Ltd. will host a computer gaming section
 again.

 August 23-25
 Dusseldorf Atarimesse.  This is the huge all-Atari show held annually in
 Germany.  Contact Alwin Stumph, Frankfurterstrasse 89-91, 6096 Raunheim.
 Phone 49-6142-2090   FAX 49-6142-209180

 September 14-15
 The Southern California ATARI Computer Faire, Version 5.0, also known as
 THE GLENDALE SHOW has been confirmed for September 14 and 15, 1991.
 Contact: H.A.C.K.S., 249 N. Brand Bl. #321, Glendale, CA 91203, or call
 John King Tarpinian, Faire Chairperson, 818-246-7286.

 October 12-13
 WAACE AtariFest '91, Sheraton Reston Hotel, Washington D.C./Virginia,
 contact J.D.BARNES, 7710 Chatham Road, Chevy Chase, MD 20815.

 October 21-25
 Fall COMDEX Las Vegas Nevada

 November 23-24
 Chicago Atari Computer Show BY ATARI.  Contact Larry Grauzas, P.O. Box
 8788, Waukegan, IL 60079-8788, phone 708-566-0671.  Administrated by the
 Lake County Atari Computer Enthusiasts (LCACE).





 =======================================================================
                            BBS EXPRESS UPDATE
                            ------------------
                              Press Release
 =======================================================================


 B B S   E X P R E S S !   S T   N E W S
 V1.70 NOW AVAILABLE TO REGISTERED SUBSCRIBERS!

 Support Line #1: The Rebel BBS......702/435-0786  FidoNet: 1:209/745
 Support Line #2: ST Synchronicity...415/526-6471  PC Pursuit: "CAOAK"
 Support Line #3: Psychlo Empire.....214/251-1175  Central Support (TX)
 Support Line #4: Terrapin Station...203/656-0134  Eastern Support (CT)

 Yet another major update, folks -- the third such major update in a row!
 While others may add a feature here and a bug fix there, we're not happy
 unless we keep giving you more and more power and flexibility with each
 new release!  (Does anyone remember what v1.30 looked like? ;^)

 Here's just a sampling of what's new in v1.70 of BBS Express! ST:

 >>> PROMPT.DAT >>>  Those of us back in '86 running the old BBS Express!
 for the 8-bits appreciated the ability to customize all our text strings
 and prompts via the PROMPT.DAT data file.  BBS Express! ST has always
 enjoyed the reputation for being the most customizable BBS software for
 the Atari ST.  Well, that ability has been enhanced even more with the
 addition of this great new feature!  Customize nearly 260 prompts (with
 more on the way) to your liking.  Support ASCII/VT52/ANSI Color/Mono and
 40/80 columns ALL IN THE SAME PROMPT, USING _ONE_ PROMPT.DAT!

 >>> ONE-LINERS >>>  So you think your a comedian, huh?  Well, even if
 you're not, you're sure to love the new one-liners that are displayed at
 _random_ just before the main command prompt is displayed.  "One-liners"
 is actually a misnomer, since they can be as many lines as you can fit
 into the 132 byte limit for each one.  They are a part of PROMPT.DAT and
 can be changed to anything you like.  In addition, a new script command
 has been added to toggle them ON/OFF, useful for giving your callers the
 ability to turn them on and off, or, if you don't like them, you can
 turn them off permanently.

 >>> CHAT MODE ENHANCED >>>  Chat mode now has word wrap that can be
 toggled on/off by either the SysOp or the caller.  In addition, with
 each Carriage Return (by either party), Express! will automatically give
 both ends a colored (provided the caller is in color) paragraph
 separator, giving chat a nice 'neat' easy to follow look.

 >>> STATUS BOX TOGGLE >>>  You can now toggle the Status Box at the top
 of the screen ON/OFF at will!  This gives you the ability to see what
 the caller sees -- especially useful for testing scripts.  In addition,
 a new ampersand variable tag has been added which will return the
 condition of the Status Box!

 >>> DEFAULT PATH IN SCRIPT >>>  A new script command has been added that
 will automatically restore your working directory to the path that you
 load the BBS from!  This is especially nice for passing scripts around
 (no longer does each sysop have to edit their default paths), and for
 when you change your BBS configuration around.  Ah heck, it's just plain
 EASIER!

 >>> CALL EDITOR FROM SCRIPT >>>  You can now use perhaps the finest
 editor of any ST BBS program in any of your scripts!  You choose the
 title to be displayed, along with the maximum message size and you have
 a real fancy editor in your very own scripts.  If you've ever imagined
 having things like word wrap, letter and word pasting, color (translated
 for the caller) and all the other great features of the Express! editor
 in your very own scripts, well, now you can!

 >>> FILE SELECTOR >>>  You can now instantly call up whatever file
 selector is installed in your system with a single keypress from the
 SysOp command shell!  This is especially handy if you're using a custom
 file selector with built-in file maintenance features.  (You can use
 that file selector's file handling routines, rather than Express!'s
 CLI.)

 >>> UE ENHANCEMENTS >>>  The CLI (Command Line Interface) has been
 dumped in the online UE (User Editor) in favor of Hot Keys, making
 getting around much easier and faster.  In addition, when editing user
 flags, you can now terminate the typing of all the Y's and N's by
 pressing Return, and all of the Y's and N's after that point will remain
 as they were.

 >>> UNLIMITED USER MASKS >>>  You now have virtually an _unlimited_
 number of User Masks at your disposal!  If you don't know what User
 Masks are, they are predefined security levels, time limits, DL:UL
 ratios, etc., that you assign to a user by typing in a simple number.
 In this case, that number can be _any_ valid user number in your
 userlog, whether it's a real user or a 'dummy' account you have set up
 previously.  All pertinent settings will be extracted from that account
 and placed into the account you're editing.  That means the amount of
 masks you can have is limited only by the size of your userlog!

 >>> ZEPHYR! UPDATED AND EXPANDED >>>  Thanks to XYZ author Alan
 Hamilton, Zephyr! has been improved both in performance and in screen
 display!  Now, _all_ Express! transfers are done through Zephyr!,
 freeing up yet even more memory for 1/2 meg SysOps.  It also means an
 improved Xmodem display and greater performance with Xmodem-1k.  The
 interface has also been greatly improved, with Express! now accurately
 detecting the success of each and every transfer.

 Of course, there are many other minor enhancements, not to mention a few
 bug fixes <blush>.  Suffice it to say, the best is only getting better!
 Spread the word -- BBS Express! ST is growing by leaps and bounds!

 To order BBS Express! ST:

 First time buyers:  The price is still $79.95 (cheap) and includes two
 disks, documentation, Script examples, and the Script language Compiler,
 of course.  A special offer only at the time of purchase allows you to
 buy (1) year of unlimited updates downloadable via one of the support
 BBSes for only $15.00.  This is normally $25.00.

 Registered owners:  The yearly subscription fee for unlimited updates
 via modem is $25.00 -- you will be able to come online and grab the
 latest version was soon as it hits the streets!

 Send the applicable amount (personal check or money order) payable to
 "T2 Ltd." to the address below:

 T2 Ltd.
 P.O. Box 1947
 Fontana, CA  92334-1947

 (C) 1991, T2 LTD. - PERMISSION GRANTED TO REPRINT ONLY IN ITS ENTIRETY




 =======================================================================
             LYNX COLUMN FROM ATARIUSER MAGAZINE, JUNE, 1991
             -----------------------------------------------
                             by Clinton Smith
 =======================================================================


 Copyright, 1991, by Quill Publishing.  This article may NOT be reprinted
 without permission of AtariUser Magazine.  Information and subscriptions
 are available at 800-333-3567.


 ALERT BOX ITEMS

 NEC's TurboExpress portable game unit will not be released in Europe due
 to the established popularity of the Lynx there, according to reports in
 an online magazine from the Netherlands.  Portable Addiction, edited by
 Tjerk Heymens Visser and Yiri Kohl, is a new monthly Lynx and Portfolio
 support magazine, distributed electronically from Europe via USENET, and
 also available on U.S. BBS systems and pay services.

 Consolidating its resources, Atari relocated its entire entertainment
 division to Lombard, Illinois, formerly only the Lynx software
 development center.  Lawrence Siegel, a 20 year veteran of the amusement
 and video game industry with Sega, Seeburg, and Williams and former head
 of Lynx software development, has been appointed President of the Atari
 Entertainment Division.


 NEW LYNX GAMES - PREVIEW!
 Insider's first look at games in development

 By the time you read this, Warbirds and Blockout should both be out, but
 I took advantage of my proximity to the new Atari Entertainment Division
 in Chicago to get an early peek.  I gave them a call and they invited me
 down to their offices to check out some upcoming games and get the
 lowdown on what is to come.  These aren't quite reviews--I like to spend
 some serious time with a game before I make a definitive opinion.  I'll
 give you the final word on these as soon as I get my hands on them.

 WARBIRDS

 Warbirds is a World War I dogfighting game where you fly in 3-D through
 the skies, engaging enemy aircraft.  The surprising thing is that this
 isn't the shootemup that you would expect on a video game system.
 Instead, it's more like the flight simulators that you're used to seeing
 on 16-bit computers like the ST.

 You view the game from your biplane's cockpit.  Since they didn't have
 radar in WWI, you have to scan the skies with your eyes to find your
 opponent.  Holding down your B button and moving your joypad will let
 you look around and behind you.

 Warbirds features exceptional graphics.  The 3-D environment is very
 smooth and even has clouds to hide in.  When an enemy plane is damaged,
 smoke starts pouring out of its tail.  The game also has some nicely
 detailed, digitized pictures at the end of the mission.  If you feel
 like making your friends crash and burn, you can ComLynx up to 6
 players.

 BLOCKOUT

 Blockout is a 3-D puzzle game which is already available for most
 computers.  It's very similar to Tetris, but the action is viewed from
 above.  Three dimensional blocks fall into a pit, and you must rotate
 them as they fall so they will fit together.  Fill up an entire level
 and those blocks disappear.  If your block placement isn't very good,
 the blocks will start to stack up and once they reach the top of the
 pit, GAME OVER.

 The 3-D graphics of Blockout fit in perfectly with the Lynx's 3-D
 scaling abilities.  Like other puzzle games of this sort, it's extremely
 addictive and will be eating up a lot of man hours.

 THIRD PARTY DEVELOPMENTS

 A number of third party companies are working on games for the Lynx:

 COLOR DREAMS is best known as one of the companies who has produced
 third party NES titles without Nintendo's permission.  Their first Lynx
 title is Crystal Mines 2.  CM2 is a puzzle/strategy game which looks
 similar to the classic Boulderdash.  They're also working on a game
 based on the gruesome horror film, Hellraiser.

 LORICIEL (one of the biggest French developers) is doing Superskweek, an
 action game where you must repaint tiles, rescue imprisoned Skweekettes,
 and kill the monsters that are infecting your planet.  The game has 225
 levels for you to get through.

 SHADOWSOFT is a Canadian firm which is converting the arcade classic,
 Robotron.  They are also rumored to be working on a Lynx version of
 Joust.

 TELEGAMES USA is readying a comprehensive chess game titled Fidelity
 Ultimate Chess.  The game features 2-D and 3-D views.  Next up is a 3-D
 miniature golf simulation.

 Most of these games are due very soon.

 PLAY TIPS

 In XENOPHOBE, the Poofer Gun is the most powerful.  It has a short range
 but is very effective right through the last levels.

 Jump to level 144 in CHIP'S CHALLENGE with code GVXQ.  And try code MAND
 for the hidden Mandelbrot explorer, where every button has a new
 function.

 NEXT MONTH we'll have more on "games within games", hidden levels, and
 more playing hints.  If you have Lynx questions or suggestions for this
 column, contact me in care of my quarterly newsletter.  APE Newsletter,
 2104 North Kostner, Chicago, IL 60639.  I also can be reached on GEnie -
 leave a message to me at C.SMITH89 - Clinton Smith



 =======================================================================
                 Z*NET ONLINE MAGAZINE CONFERENCE MEMBERS
                 ----------------------------------------
 =======================================================================


 Node BBS Name                BBS Phone        City, State, Country
 ---- ----------------------  -------------    ------------------------
  55  Hi-Tech                 203-776-2850     North Haven, CT, USA
  68  CFB Atari               416-----------   Toronto, ON, Canada
 123  EastSide BBS            618-254-6077     Wood River, IL, USA
 133  Hologram Inc.           908-727-1914     Old Bridge, NJ, USA
 168  C.C.B.B.S.              609-451-7475     Bridgeton, NJ, USA
 171  The Outland             403-475-9588     Edmonton, AB, Canada
 204  Full Moon: FoReM Spt    508-752-1348     Worcester, MA, USA
 224  Flash BBS               314-275-2040     St. Louis, MO, USA
 266  The Patch House         212-824-5512     New York, NY, USA
 300  ST.AT.U.S. BBS          203-528-7693     East Hartford, CT, USA
 304  The Twilight Zone       407-831-1613     Longwood, FL, USA
 378  Little Lulu's Playgrnd  415-458-3659     Pittsburg, CA, USA
 390  HyperSpace II BBS       803-574-6738     Spartanburg, SC, USA
 410  ACE Information Srv     513-233-9500     Huber Heights, OH, USA
 422  Virtual Reality         817-547-1734     Copperas Cove, TX, USA
 423  White Runes/Tinuviel    303-972-8566     Littleton, CO, USA
 440  {{ Realm of Chaos }}    602-789-9426     Phoenix, AZ, USA
 441  The Boiler Room BBS     313-562-1142     Detroit, MI, USA
 467  Sherwood Forest         718-522-0768     Brooklyn, NY, USA
 469  The Outer Region BBS    303-766-2778     AURORA, CO, USA
 479  Cave Creek BBS          206-525-7046     Seattle, WA, USA
 489  STeal Your Face         201-920-7981     Brick, NJ, USA
 500  Battlezone              301-969-0621     Glen Burnie, MD, USA
 501  STormShadow             301-360-1480     Pasadena, MD, USA
 504  Media 2000              301-360-0397     Pasadena, MD, USA
 505  ATARI WEST BBS          604-272-5888     RICHMOND, BC, CANADA
 513  The Forgotten Realms    615-833-4971     Nashville, TN, USA
 523  Leftover Hippies BBS    416-466-8931     Toronto, ON, Canada
 532  Bill's BBS              403-461-7546     Edmonton, AB, Canada
 534  Pinky's House of Horror 415-531-1576     Oakland, CA, USA
 538  The Dragon's Lair       803-788-7806     Columbia, SC, USA
 546  Bear Swamp BBS          513-644-0714     Marysville, OH, USA
 555  The Grid BBS            415-351-1385     San Leandro, CA, USA
 556  Thieves Guild           301-894-8516     Suitland, MD, USA
 562  Midwest Connection      708-423-1568     Chicago Ridge, IL, USA
 574  Asylum                  505-897-4306     Albuquerque, NM, USA
 592  The O-Mayer V BBS       213-732-0229     Los Angeles, CA, USA
 593  Z*Net Online            908-968-8148     Middlesex, NJ, USA
 595  Temple of Doom          403-436-0328     Edmonton, AB, Canada
 596  Super 68                206-859-9644     Kent, WA, USA
 602  Cartoon Haven           719-574-7406     Colorado Springs, CO, USA
 610  The Songwriter's Den    908-859-0004     Phillipsburg, NJ, USA
 616  MoDeM MaDnEsS BBS       516-295-3827     Woodmere, NY, USA
 621  The Garage              618-344-8466     Collinsville, IL, USA
 624  Paradox                 314-631-5449     St. Louis, MO, USA
 625  Phil's Hangout          412-331-2795     Mckees Rocks, PA, USA
 633  The Dark STar BBS       801-269-8780     Murray, UT, USA
 635  STormbringer            307-638-7036     Cheyenne, WY, USA
 641  Midgard Serpent         718-714-1423     Brooklyn, NY, USA
 643  The Ringworld           303-699-0402     Aurora, CO, USA
 647  E.H.C.R.                203-528-4448     East Hartford, CT, USA
 656  The Isle of Lucy        604-339-0006     Comox, BC, Canada
 664  LaST C.A.S.T.L.E. BBS   719-390-9837     Colorado Springs, CO, USA
 667  Star Ship Enterprise    602-247-9431     Phoenix, AZ, USA




 =======================================================================
                           ST CARTRIDGE HOLDER
                           -------------------
                               by Ken Brick
 =======================================================================


 Everyone that owns an Atari ST and a plug in cartridge such as a Spectre
 GCR has a problem with the cartridge.  It always is in danger of being
 knocked out by an accidental movement of your hand or the machine
 itself.  When that happens, you just hold your breath and wonder how
 many dollars it's going to cost to repair this time.  Most of the time
 you make out and nothing happens, but I couldn't stand the suspense.

 I wanted to figure out a way to hold this cartridge in its slot much
 more securely.  What came out of my brainstorming session was simple,
 cheap, and effective. (sounds impossible I know).  What you'll need is 2
 mating pieces of velcro (one hooks and one loops) about 6 inches each.
 One of them (either one) needs to be sticky backed and the other plain
 backed.  Try a fabric shop for these.

 Here's how it works.  Unplug your ST's power cord, and with your
 cartridge device still plugged in, turn it over, back side up.  Cut the
 sticky backed velcro into 4 pieces about 1.5" each.  Stick 4 pieces on,
 two on the cartridge and two on the ST.  Then take the velcro of the
 opposite non-sticky gender and cut 2 pieces that are long enough to go
 across the separation between your cartridge and ST and stick onto 2
 opposing pieces of velcro you had stuck on previously.  Repeat the
 process with the remaining two pieces of velcro and you are done.

 The velcro prevents the cartridge from being pulled out of the slot
 without first removing the velcro.  This is a very effective idea that
 even makes it difficult to remove the cartridge when I want to.  The
 velcro is that tenacious.  Try this, it will make you feel better about
 those hanging cartridges.




 =======================================================================
                           Z*MAGAZINE ARCHIVES
                           -------------------
                      Compiled by Kathleen Johnston
 =======================================================================


 ST DESKTOP PUBLISHING        DeskTop Publishing for ATARI

 Will the ST become a challenger to the Macintosh in the hot desktop
 publishing market?  According to the United Kingdom Atari magazine,
 Page 6, a new software package, Fleet Street Editor, could change the
 face of society newsletters and small publications.  This full design
 and layout system from Mirrorsoft is capable of driving a photo-
 typesetter.  Expected UK debut is next month.  Meanwhile, stateside
 computer market analysts are calling desktop publishing "the hula hoop
 of 1986."

 THE YUPPIE ST

 "Atari's now computer serious threat to the Macintosh.  Will the Amiga
 survive?"  You'll find this headline in Newsweek magazine, but it's not
 on a news story.  It's an advertisment.

 JS&A, a nationwide mail order marketer that pitches high-technology
 product.  Their full-page ads claim "the ST will open up a major fight
 in the personal computer market," and then proceed to make a detailed
 comparison of the Macintosh to the ST.

 In a bold approach, the Northbrook, IL company invites owners to "put
 the ST next to your Mac or Amiga or even IBM," after a small down
 payment, for a 30-day trial basis.  The components are sold separately.
 The ST computer and mouse for $299, disk drive $199, and monochrome
 monitor $199.

 NEW PRODUCTS

 Epyx Software will release Winter Games, Rogue (originally a mainframe
 adventure game popular on college campuses) and Temple of Apshai Trilogy
 for the Atari ST and the Commodore Amiga in March.

 Paul Henckel, of Quickview Systems of Los Altos, CA and the author of
 "The Elements of Friendly Software Design," (Warner Books, 1985) has
 finished Zoomracks for the ST and IBM PC family.  It uses "racks" rather
 than files to display information in a compact way on screen.  Visualize
 this as a stack of time cards.  All of the cards are visible at once,
 with most of one card hidden behind the next card, and only one or two
 lines of information about each card visible.

 ATARIS HELP BILK THE BANK?

 How did Richard Mamarella get $22 million in bank loans from a New
 Jersey bank?  According to a recent Wall Street Journal account,
 Mamarella bribed a junior bank officer with $30,000 and two Atari sets,
 to approve the fraudulent loans.  After pleading guilty to bank fraud
 and extortion charges, Mamarella is serving a nine-year prison term.

 AMIGA HAS TOS, TOO

 What's in a name?  Metacomco, the British company that developed LISP
 and Metapascal for the ST also developed the operating system for the
 Amiga PC.  The name of a multitasking OS at the core of the Amiga OS --
 TRIPOS.

 DRI

 Batteries Included may have a difficulty shipping Atari ST GEM
 applications by their original April deadline.  Like other programmers
 and developers, BI is anxiously waiting for Digital Research of Monterey
 CA to finish up the GEM 68K developer's kit.  Industry analysts say
 delays in shipment of final versions of the kit is a serious problem for
 ST software developers.

 Research and development seems to be continuing at the Monterey, CA-
 based developer of the GEM operating system for Atari and IBM.  DRI has
 placed ads in the Silicon Valley-Area San Jose Mercury News searching
 for graphics development Software Engineers.  "Become involved with the
 team responsible or developing this leading technology of the future --
 right now!

 Responsibilities include exploratory development and prototyping of new
 products, writing graphics applications in C for the GEM environment,
 and implementation of new device drivers."




 =======================================================================
                  Z*NET INTERNATIONAL PC ONLINE MAGAZINE
                  --------------------------------------
                           This Week's Contents
 =======================================================================


 Z*Net PC is a free, bi-weekly magazine in electronic format that
 features news, reviews, commentary, and other information of interest to
 users of IBM PC and compatible computers.

 This is merely a comprehensive table of contents.

 The complete Z*Net PC Issue #10 is available on:

 GEnie in the IBM PC RoundTable (IBMPC) as ZNETPC10.ZIP

 CompuServe in the IBM Applications Forum (GO IBMAPP) as ZPC10.ZIP


 THE EDITOR'S DESK..........................................Ron Kovacs
 Z*NET NEWSWIRE, PC EDITION................................Z*Net Staff

 The Latest Industry News and Events.  Why Wait Weeks for the Print
 Magazines to Bring You The News That Z*Net PC Offers Today?

 - Apple Announces Education Grants
 - PC Windows Expo for San Francisco
 - IBM Establishes Soviet Division
 - Adaptech Supports 21MB Floppy Drive
 - IBM Launches IBM Networking Systems
 - SyQuest's "SyDOS" Division for PC's
 - Toshiba's Gas Plasma Notebook Display
 - Tektronics Color Printer Uses Any Paper
 - Electronic Arts Acquires Distinctive Software
 - Sony Includes Jack Nicklaus Golf Demo as 11th Disk
 - Hayes Smartmodem 10th Anniversary Rebates
 - Abobe Photoshop 2.0 for Macintosh
 - Excel 3.0 Released for OS/2 PM
 - Apple's New AU/X Developer's Toolkit
 - GRiD's CD-ROM Notebook PC's
 - Phoenix Extends MS-DOS Agreement
 - New CMS Drives for PS/2's
 - Ashton-Tate's Framework IV
 - MS-DOS 5.0 Released
 - IBM DOS 5.0 Released
 - MS-DOS 5.0 100% Upgrade Program
 - MS-DOS 5.0's Major New Features
 - MS-DOS 5.0 Support Forum on CompuServe
 - IBM Trade-Up for Compaq, Mac Owners
 - Computer Shopper in U.S.S.R.
 - Erasable Ink for Printers, Copiers
 - IBM's New PS/2's - 20Mhz 386SX, 2.88MB Floppies
 - New Chinese Anti-Piracy Laws
 - Ergo's New 486SX and DX "Brick" PC's
 - Apple vs. Microsoft Swings in Microsoft's Favor
 - IBM's 8516 Touch-Screen Monitor
 - Apple/IBM Technology Sharing Talks
 - AimTech IconAuthor 4.0 for Windows
 - PC Multimedia Climbs, Mac Declines
 - ZBASIC: Develop 32-Bit Windows 3.0 Applications
 - Fujitsu buys Poqet, 32-Bit Poqet PC Planned
 - 1-2-3 and Realtime for SPARC from Lotus
 - Cirrus's Tiny VGA Adapter for Notebooks
 - Bill Gates Memo Blasts IBM, OS/2
 - FAST Sony Optical Drives, 40ms
 - Norton Desktop for Windows Debuts
 - PC Magazine Now In The U.S.S.R.
 - 68040 Power for Macintosh
 - Lotus, SCO Settle "Look and Feel" Suit
 - Lotus, Borland "Look and Feel" Battle Rages On

 THE GRAPHICAL EDGE.......................................Mike Mezaros

 The Latest GUI News, Commentary, and Software Reviews.

 - Apple Developing Windows Software!
 - Microsoft Works for Windows?
 - Sounder 2.0... Mac Sounds in 386 Enhanced Mode
 - PowerBBS: BBS Software Designed for Windows!
 - WinCLI Update
 - A True Bargain in Latest DAK?
 - Visual BASIC Banter
 - Windows 3.1 Dialog Box Mystery Continues
 - PC World Windows Survey: Surprising Numbers
 - Reviewed: MicroLink Terminal Software for Windows
 - Realizer BASIC for Windows
 - Excerpts from Apple/Microsoft GUI Agreement

 DRAWPERFECT CONTEST.....................................Press Release

 Win free connect time on GEnie, or WordPerfect products, by entering the
 WordPerfect RoundTable's DrawPerfect Contest.

 MS-DOS 5.0: FIRST IMPRESSIONS............................Mike Mezaros

 How is life with the new operating system going so far? What REAL
 benefits does it offer?  Is it worth upgrading?

 NORTON 6.0 TO INCLUDE 4DOS...............................News Release

 4DOS, the popular COMMAND.COM replacement, has been licensed in modified
 form to Symantec, and will ship with Norton Utilities 6.0!  This news
 release from the makers of 4DOS explains the future of 4DOS as an
 independent product, and as part of the Norton package...

 ASYNC PROFESSIONAL......................................Press Release

 Async Pro is an asynchronous communications library that allows
 programmers to get their communications applications working FAST.  This
 press release profiles all of Async Pro's features, including Z-Modem.

 SHAREWARE/PD SHELF........................Compiled from GEnie and CIS

 Which new files are worth downloading? Z*Net PC lists some contenders.
 Includes software for DOS, Windows, and OS/2, compiled from various
 libraries on GEnie and CompuServe.

 TRASH-IT: A TRASH CAN FOR DOS (ALMOST)...................Mike Mezaros

 A complete review of the shareware program Trash-It, which promises to
 bring the functionality of the Macintosh's trash can to MS-DOS PC's.

 WILDCAT! BBS VERSION 3.0................................Press Release

 WildCat!, the only BBS program available through retail outlets, has
 been upgraded to version 3.0!  Dozens of news features have been added,
 as this is a complete re-write.

 Z*NET CONFERENCES....................................................

 A list of the FoReM-Net BBS systems connected to the various Z*Net
 conferences.  These conferences carry the three Z*Net online
 publications, as well as discussion about the articles contained within.




 =======================================================================
 Z*Net International Atari Online Magazine is a weekly magazine covering
 the Atari and related computer community.   Material  contained in this
 edition may be reprinted  without  permission,  except  where otherwise
 noted,  unedited,  with  the  issue number, name and author included at
 the  top  of each reprinted article.  Commentary and opinions presented
 are those of the individual author and  does  not  necessarily  reflect
 the opinions of Z*NET  or the  staff.  Z*Magazine  Atari  8-Bit  Online
 Magazine, Z*Net Atari Online Magazine, Z*Net and Z*Net PC are copyright
 (c)1991 by Rovac Industries Inc, a registered corporation. Post  Office
 Box 59, Middlesex, New Jersey 08846. (908) 968-2024. Z*Net USA BBS EAST
 24 Hours, 1200/2400 Baud (9600 Coming Soon!), (908) 968-8148. We can be
 reached   on   CompuServe   at   75300,1642  and  on  GEnie  at  Z-NET.
 =======================================================================
                Copyright (c)1991, Rovac Industries, Inc..
 =======================================================================


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